
Resource Articles
Lay the foundation for a fascinating and fulfilling career with a BS in Psychology from Walden.
Do you want to learn more about the human mind and use those insights to help others? Walden’s BS in Psychology online program equips you with a versatile skill set and the specialized knowledge you need to shape a meaningful career path.
In this program, you’ll study topics you’re passionate about now—and chart a clear course for your future. Graduate with educational experiences that can help you grow professionally. Become a positive force for happier and more resilient individuals, families, and communities.
A BS in Psychology program provides students with an academic foundation of psychological principles and practices that apply to many different job roles.
Personalize your coursework by selecting from an array of concentration options that include Addiction and Forensic Psychology.
Get personal, one-on-one assistance as you navigate through your schooling and consider future career prospects and planning.
Get a jump on your master’s degree by completing up to five graduate-level courses at the undergraduate tuition rate.
Walden’s social change mission is woven throughout our curriculum to prepare you to make a real difference for others.
We offer short, six-week courses to help you manage your time and fit your studies in with other commitments.
Our BS in Psychology curriculum follows American Psychological Association (APA) Undergraduate Psychology 2.0 standards.
Receive up to a $4,000 Grant and Tech Fee waived for the first term if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 30, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowThis sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Course Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Core Courses |
||
PSYC 1001 |
Introduction to Psychology
In this course, students will be introduced to the scientific study of observable behavior and internal experiences such as thoughts and feelings. Psychological facts, principles, and theories associated with methods of analysis, learning, memory, brain functioning, sensation, perception, motivation, emotions, personality, social behavior, human development, and psychological disorders and treatment will be introduced. Students will learn to understand human behavior by examining the integrative influences of biological, psychological, and social-cultural factors. The concepts in this course will prepare psychology majors for more in-depth study of the major areas of psychology, and will provide a foundational understanding of human behavior for non-psychology majors. |
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 2000 |
Psychology Seminar
In this survey course, BS in Psychology program majors assess their marketable skills, career needs, and career goals. Students learn to make informed choices and plans regarding graduate training in psychology or other related fields of study, as well as job-seeking skills in psychology. Additional topics covered are introductory-level approaches to critical thinking, information literacy skills, and writing in the format and style of the discipline. Students will also reflect on how their chosen major of psychology relates to Walden's mission of social change. This course is graded as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 2001 |
Cross-Cultural Psychology
Contemporary life requires the ability to relate to people who are different. In this course, students will explore major areas of psychology in light of culture's influence, challenging their own world views and unconscious biases in order to develop greater sensitivity to the impact of cultural differences on interactions in a variety of settings. Topics include definitions and approaches to understanding culture; the role of psychology in understanding bias; cultural aspects of cognition and intelligence; emotion; motivation; development and socialization; disorders; and applications of cross-cultural psychology. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 2009 |
Theories of Personality
This course is an introduction to the theoretical approaches to understanding personality. Students examine key theorists and theories including psychoanalytic, neopsychoanalytic, humanistic, trait, biological, behaviorist, and social-cognitive approaches. Perspectives on personality are applied to personal and social issues. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3002 |
Introduction to Basic Statistics
A hallmark of science is the use of numbers to convey research findings; understanding these numbers has both practical and academic value. In this course, students examine basic statistical principles and vocabulary, differentiating methods of data analysis, and interpreting statistical results. The goal of the course is for students to better understand the importance of statistics in research. Prerequisites BS in Human Services Psychology Concentration
BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3003 |
Methods in Psychological Inquiry
A variety of factors may cloud judgment when interpreting experiences.In this course, students learn about research methods that psychologists use to test hypotheses in an objective and systematic manner to minimize biases, providing a framework for more accurate conclusions. Students examine experimental and non-experimental methods, issues related to the validity and reliability of measurement, dependent and independent variables, sampling, and ethical concerns related to psychological research. Prerequisites BS in Human Services Psychology Concentration
BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 4010 |
Psychology Capstone
In this course, students integrate knowledge and skills attained through their psychology coursework to create a final Capstone Paper that examines one area of psychology through a professional lens. In addition, students engage in scholarly discourse about key issues and theories, including ethics, learned throughout the program. Finally, students reflect on their experience in the program and consider career possibilities that might utilize their learning while considering ways to contribute to positive social change. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
Concentration Courses |
||
5 credits must be at the 3000 or 4000 level
|
||
Individual and Society (Choose one) |
||
Experimental (Choose one) |
||
Developmental (Choose one) |
||
Applied Psychology (Choose two) |
||
Choose two; one must be 3000 or 4000 level
|
||
PSYC 2006 |
Introduction to Addiction
Students in this course are introduced to the nature of addiction and the impairment in individuals who suffer from addictions. It includes a review of theories on substance disorders and approaches to identification, prevention, and treatment. Topics include historical perspectives, diagnoses, types of addictive behaviors, treatment, and current research. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 2100 |
Workplace Psychology
Students will be introduced to the field of industrial organizational psychology where the principles of psychology are applied within the workplace. Key topics will illustrate how the tenets of industrial organizational psychology apply at three levels: the individual, group, and organizational levels. Students will also explore each side of the field: Industrial and Organizational sides. On the industrial side, students will examine job analysis, selection, training, and performance measurement. Focusing on the organizational psychology side, students will explore motivation, teams, communication, and leadership in organizations. Lastly, ethics, culture, and legal implications will be integrated throughout the course. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 2101 |
Introduction to Forensic Psychology
Students in this course are provided with an expansive overview of forensic psychology, including basic tenets, practices, and procedures. Students explore subspecialties of forensic psychology; roles and responsibilities; and related legal, ethical, and diversity issues. They learn how forensic psychology links to the criminal justice system as they explore related topics, including criminal profiling, police psychology, psychology in the criminal courts, and correctional psychology. Through this course, students acquire a broad understanding of forensic psychology theories and concepts, which they apply to the analysis of controversial issues and contemporary challenges within the field. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3004 |
Psychological Disorders
Psychological disorders form the basis of diagnosis in psychology. In this course, students examine a wide variety of common psychological disorders, including mood, thought, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual, personality, and dissociative disorders. Students also explore underlying causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. They examine concepts of normal and abnormal as related to psychology, methods used in the process of diagnosis, and the measurement of psychological functioning. Students also differentiate among disorders and learn limits to effective diagnosis. Applying concepts and theories learned in the course, students demonstrate their understanding through practical application and case study assignments. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3007 |
Influence and Persuasion
Students in this course examine major concepts and theories of influence and persuasion. Understanding the psychology of influence and persuasion, and recognizing how we use it in daily interactions—or how we experience it used by others—is a vital component of making positive decisions about relationships and careers, as well as everyday challenges and opportunities in our lives. Students will apply specific theories to common situations to analyze and evaluate the impact of influence and persuasion on their own and others' attitudes, beliefs, and behavior. Particular areas of study include influence and persuasion in daily communication; cultural considerations; media and consumer behavior; and politics and leader influence. Throughout the course, students also apply self-reflection strategies to case studies and their personal experiences and also assess the ethical aspects of influence and persuasion. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3009 |
Psychology of Leadership
Are leaders made or born? This question has been debated for decades. Building on requisite comprehension of psychology, such as understanding development and behavior, mental processes, and how people interact, students apply this knowledge in consideration of what makes a leader. They examine theories and principles of leadership and leader development. Students engage in coursework focused on leadership styles, characteristics and qualities of effective leaders, cultural issues, empowerment and development, ethics and values, and global leadership. They apply leadership concepts and principles to personal experiences to contextualize theory and further examine the leadership role. Prerequisites BS in Human Services Leadership and Administration Concentration
BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 4001 |
Cultural Perspectives in Health Psychology
How does one's culture influence health-related behavior and how does culture impact an individual's response to stress, pain, and illness? In this course, students learn how biological, psychological, sociological, and cognitive factors affect individual health behaviors. Students engage in discussions and practical, application-based assignments on a variety of topics, including cultural responses to health, stress management, and coping mechanisms; pain theory and management techniques; health psychology theories and models; and strategies for helping people achieve health psychology goals when faced with illness. Students apply principles of health psychology to case studies and real-life examples related to promoting, achieving, and maintaining optimal health as well as psychological adjustment to illness in different cultures. Prerequisites BS in Health Studies Health Psychology and Behavior Concentration
BS in Human Services Leadership and Administration Concentration
BS in Psychology
BS in Public Health Psychology and Behavior Concentration
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
Psychology Electives |
||
10 credits from the list below or any from the 5000-level courses in the School of Psychology AIM list or any undergraduate level PSYC course. You must take different courses from what you chose for your concentration courses
|
||
PSYC 3001 |
Cognitive Psychology
Students in this course are provided with a comprehensive overview of cognitive psychology, the scientific study of mental processes: How people acquire, store, transform, use, and communicate information. Topics may include perception, attention, language, memory, reasoning, problem solving, decision making, and creativity. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3004 |
Psychological Disorders
Psychological disorders form the basis of diagnosis in psychology. In this course, students examine a wide variety of common psychological disorders, including mood, thought, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual, personality, and dissociative disorders. Students also explore underlying causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. They examine concepts of normal and abnormal as related to psychology, methods used in the process of diagnosis, and the measurement of psychological functioning. Students also differentiate among disorders and learn limits to effective diagnosis. Applying concepts and theories learned in the course, students demonstrate their understanding through practical application and case study assignments. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3005 |
Racial and Ethnic Identities
Most people recognize and appreciate the individuality of human beings, including race and ethnicity as related to self-perception and to the perception of others. In this course, students explore their own racial and ethnic identities in the context of contemporary psychological knowledge as well as contemporary issues and challenges related to race and ethnicity. Students explore and discuss a variety of topics, including the development of racial and ethnic identities; social classification; privilege and stigma; perceptions of racial and ethnic identities; assimilation; inequalities in race and ethnicity; and the relationship of race and ethnicity to social change. Students apply psychological concepts to better understand their own sense of ethnic and racial identities and how these identities shape their experiences in the world. Prerequisites BS in Human Services Psychology Concentration
BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3006 |
Psychology of Gender
Researchers have demonstrated that there are few psychological differences between men and women. And yet history and conventional thinking indicate otherwise. Students in this course are introduced to the basic theories, principles, and applications of gender and gender differences. Students explore distinctions between sex and gender, masculinity and femininity, and sexuality and sexual orientation; gender differences in social behavior, perception, and cognitive abilities; and cross-cultural research on gender and sexuality. Through discussions and applications, students debunk myths surrounding sex and gender similarities and differences, and they apply theories to case examples and individual experiences. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3007 |
Influence and Persuasion
Students in this course examine major concepts and theories of influence and persuasion. Understanding the psychology of influence and persuasion, and recognizing how we use it in daily interactions—or how we experience it used by others—is a vital component of making positive decisions about relationships and careers, as well as everyday challenges and opportunities in our lives. Students will apply specific theories to common situations to analyze and evaluate the impact of influence and persuasion on their own and others' attitudes, beliefs, and behavior. Particular areas of study include influence and persuasion in daily communication; cultural considerations; media and consumer behavior; and politics and leader influence. Throughout the course, students also apply self-reflection strategies to case studies and their personal experiences and also assess the ethical aspects of influence and persuasion. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 3009 |
Psychology of Leadership
Are leaders made or born? This question has been debated for decades. Building on requisite comprehension of psychology, such as understanding development and behavior, mental processes, and how people interact, students apply this knowledge in consideration of what makes a leader. They examine theories and principles of leadership and leader development. Students engage in coursework focused on leadership styles, characteristics and qualities of effective leaders, cultural issues, empowerment and development, ethics and values, and global leadership. They apply leadership concepts and principles to personal experiences to contextualize theory and further examine the leadership role. Prerequisites BS in Human Services Leadership and Administration Concentration
BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 4001 |
Cultural Perspectives in Health Psychology
How does one's culture influence health-related behavior and how does culture impact an individual's response to stress, pain, and illness? In this course, students learn how biological, psychological, sociological, and cognitive factors affect individual health behaviors. Students engage in discussions and practical, application-based assignments on a variety of topics, including cultural responses to health, stress management, and coping mechanisms; pain theory and management techniques; health psychology theories and models; and strategies for helping people achieve health psychology goals when faced with illness. Students apply principles of health psychology to case studies and real-life examples related to promoting, achieving, and maintaining optimal health as well as psychological adjustment to illness in different cultures. Prerequisites BS in Health Studies Health Psychology and Behavior Concentration
BS in Human Services Leadership and Administration Concentration
BS in Psychology
BS in Public Health Psychology and Behavior Concentration
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 4002 |
Brain and Behavior
The study of the brain and how it functions has contributed significantly to the understanding of how people react and adapt to their environments. In this course, students examine basic brain physiology and learn how the brain functions to control behavior. Students explore specific applications of brain structure to memory and attention, sensation and perception, development, socialization, motivation and emotion, and socialization. They apply concepts and theories about the brain to psychological health and well-being. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 4006 |
Global Perspectives in Psychology
While traditional psychology in the United States has been Western in focus, increased globalization has promoted an examination into human behavior from a broader perspective that includes the influence of cultural and global trends on individual and group behavior. In this course, students explore a variety of global perspectives in psychology as well as some of the issues and controversies facilitated by differing cultures. They explore and discuss trends and research methods in global psychology, indigenous psychology, psychotherapy in a global world, and the role of psychologists internationally. Students critically evaluate psychological issues from a global rather than a domestic perspective. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
PSYC 4008 |
Intergroup Conflict and Peace Building
In a world encumbered with conflict, tension, and injustice, strategies for building peace are essential. In this course, students assess theories and principles of conflict management and resolution. They examine and employ theories and applications of intergroup dynamics; principles and underlying philosophies of non-violence; and social science principles to understand conflict and promote peace. Students gain practical experience applying principles of peace building to proposing solutions for contemporary, individual, and social issues. Prerequisites BS in Psychology
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
General Electives |
||
Choose 13 courses from General Education, BS in Psychology, Accelerate into Master’s courses, or other Walden bachelor’s degree programs. Five courses (25 credits) must be from 3000, 4000, or 5000 level coursework. Elective credits must total 65 credits to meet the BS in Psychology program requirements.
|
||
VIEW ALL COURSES |
Through our BS in Psychology Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM) concentration option, you can potentially complete both degrees in less time—and at a lower cost— than earning each degree separately. AIM-eligible master's programs at Walden include:
Learn more about Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM).
Admission is considered for adult students who hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
More information for international applicants.
Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | Amount |
---|---|---|---|
Tuition | 181 quarter credit hours | $333 per quarter hour | $60,273 |
182 quarter credit hours (MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling AIM) | $333 per quarter hour | $60,606 | |
Technology Fee | Per quarter | $165 | $2,640 |
$62,913–$63,246*‡ |
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 135 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $5,000.
‡The BS in Psychology to MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Accelerate Into Master's (AIM) program option requires one additional credit, for a total of 182 credits.
Curriculum Component | Requirements | Cost | Amount |
---|---|---|---|
Tuition | 181 quarter credit hours | $333 per quarter hour | $60,273 |
Technology Fee | Per quarter | $165 | $2,640 |
$62,913* |
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 135 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $5,000.
Gain a solid foundation and knowledge of psychological principles and practices that relate to many different occupations.
Earn up to 25 master’s-level credit hours by taking graduate-level courses at the undergraduate tuition rate.
Explore theories of addiction, assessment, treatment planning, ethics, and prevention models for a range of addiction types.
Explore theories of criminology, profiling and the criminal mind, restorative justice, community responses, and victimology.
Learn how to apply human behavior and psychology principles to make a positive impact on the criminal justice system.
Examine the challenges facing society today—and learn how to help create meaningful and positive change in your community.
Help organizations respond innovatively to challenges in the 21st century, global world of work.
Walden’s bachelor’s program in psychology is purposefully designed to help you build foundational psychology knowledge and a highly transferable set of professional skills. Explore the latest psychology concepts, research, and theories while learning how to present evidence-based information to form your arguments. Whether you want to pursue a counseling career or another occupation in this broad field, our BS in Psychology program can set you on a path to your goals.
A BS in Psychology is a versatile degree, providing you with universal skills that can be applied in a number of occupational roles and settings. Whether you plan to continue your studies at the graduate level or put your knowledge to work immediately in the field, an online psychology degree can help you shape the career you were meant for.
A BS in Psychology degree can prepare you to work in settings such as:
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
As a graduate of our BS in Psychology online degree program, you will be prepared to:
Dr. McKee has been teaching both online and in traditional classroom settings for more than 16 years. Her research interests include using principles of applied behavior analysis in the design of model behavioral programs for elementary and secondary educational settings.
Dr. Bjorkman started her professional career as a K–12 school psychologist before transitioning to teaching in higher education more than 10 years ago. She is passionate about Walden’s mission of social change and acts as a change agent through volunteer work at several nonprofit organizations.
Dr. Powers completed his graduate work in developmental psychology at the University of Notre Dame. He enjoys working with children and discussing race, religion, and history. His current favorite course is Cross-Cultural Psychology.
Through my education at Walden, I have become more aware of how important it is to advocate for those who are marginalized and for my current and future profession.
Melanie Jones BS in Psychology Graduate
This degree has fueled my passion for nonprofit work. I have developed a connection with the homeless community and a new awareness of the mental illness and addiction within this community.
Antoinette Catano BS in Psychology Graduate
My Walden education supported me in both hard skills centered around workforce development, clinical work around the field of psychology, as well as soft skill development such as communication.
Justin Nguyen-Amigo BS in Psychology Graduate
An online bachelor’s in psychology degree program provides a broad overview of the field of psychology and introduces you to different theories, approaches, and perspectives in the field. You will also choose a concentration so you can focus on the area that interests you most—for example, addiction, criminal justice, or forensic psychology. Upon completion of the program, a BS in Psychology can help prepare you to seek a variety of interesting entry-level positions, such as case management aide or social services liaison.
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of a degree program.
As “helping professionals,” people who choose a career in psychology are often motivated by a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities in need. Earning your BS in Psychology can prepare you to work with different populations across a broad range of settings, including:
Dr. Marilyn Powell of Walden University says a Bachelor of Science in Psychology is a door-opening degree. “The number one advantage of earning a BS in Psychology is that the field applies to almost any opportunities graduates seek,” she says. “It provides skills to understand human behavior, as well as principles of critical thinking and scientific investigation that are applicable to all jobs in some substantial way.” BS in Psychology career options span a variety of diverse fields, such as business, law, government, education, healthcare, and social services.
If you’re interested in how systems and people work and are compassionate and curious, you’re likely to enjoy the study of psychology. A BS in Psychology is a particularly good choice for those committed to social change, as the program helps you to apply reason and logic in order to understand issues, strategize about how to solve world problems, and ultimately implement change.
Walden University’s BS in Psychology program offers seven concentrations:
Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.