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Psychology Major (BA or BS)

Prepare to serve individuals and communities with compassion and integrity by earning your bachelor’s degree in psychology at Azusa Pacific University.

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Why Earn Your Psychology Degree at APU?

As a hands-on program, APU’s psychology major equips you to understand human behavior through scientific study and compassionate, evidence-based practice. You can choose from a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) pathway to tailor your undergraduate experience to your academic and career goals.

Rooted in a Christ-centered approach, our psychology degree program:

  • Deepens your understanding of human behavior and cognition through faculty-guided research and real-world field experiences.
  • Sharpens your critical thinking, communication, and qualitative and quantitative analysis skills.
  • Builds your résumé and career readiness through hands-on internship opportunities.
  • Explores the intersection of a Christian worldview and psychology to empower you for ethical and impactful practice.

Program at a Glance

Grow as a leader at APU. Through the School of Behavioral Sciences’ psychology program, you benefit from faculty guidance and hands-on learning that support careers in physical therapy, social work, and psychology.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • Friday, May 9, 2026
  • Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • Saturday, July 11, 2026

Application Deadline

  • The admission requirements for the psychology major vary depending on your status as a first-time freshman, transfer, or international student.

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Program Information

  • Program Units: 48

Location

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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

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What You’ll Learn

The curriculum in our psychology bachelor’s degree program establishes a solid foundation in the science of human behavior, psychological theory, and applied analysis through traditional coursework and applied, hands-on learning. Upon completing the program, you’re well-prepared for advanced graduate studies or to tackle diverse professional paths.

During your time as a psychology major, you’ll gain expertise in

  • analyzing human behavior across the lifespan through developmental, social, cultural, and neurocognitive perspectives;
  • applying psychological theory and research methods to evaluate behavior, cognition, and mental health in real-world contexts;
  • designing and conducting psychological studies using qualitative and quantitative methods; and
  • understanding psychological disorders and employing intervention strategies that consider ethical, cultural, and clinical variables.

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Program Details

Housed in APU’s Department of Psychology, the psychology major positions you to practice ethically, think scientifically, and serve diverse communities with cultural awareness and care. 

You may choose between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology. Equipped with these critical skills, you’ll transform lives and lead with a heart for eternal impact.

The BA in Psychology track emphasizes the study of human behavior and cognition and the application of psychological principles in practice. This pathway develops critical thinking and research skills while preparing students for careers in clinical, counseling, and community-based settings.

Our BS in Psychology focuses on the human brain, psychological science, and research methodology. With advanced training in statistics and research design, this pathway prepares students for careers in psychological research and graduate studies in research-focused fields.

At Azusa Pacific University, our easy undergraduate admissions process helps you take the next step toward a purpose-filled education.

The prerequisites and required next steps for applying to APU vary depending on your student type.  Select your enrollment path for more detailed admissions information:

Have questions along the way? Connect with our dedicated admissions representatives to get the support you need.

At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

At APU, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality education, backed by respected accreditation and academic excellence. Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

By the Numbers

More than 60 % of APU psychology students participate in practicums in organizations across Southern California.
#1 APU was ranked as the top Christian college in California in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.
10 :1 Student-to-faculty Ratio

Career Outcomes for Psychology Majors

Our world needs competent professionals with a deep understanding of human behavior and cognition and their complexities. Earning a BA or BS in Psychology provides a comprehensive education that empowers you to pursue advanced graduate studies or dive into a range of people-centered careers right after graduation.

Drawing on their knowledge of psychological theory, research methods, and applied practice, graduates of APU’s psychology program pursue roles such as:

  • Career counselors
  • Case managers or community support specialists
  • Marketing or consumer insights professionals
  • Mental health or behavioral health assistants
  • Psychiatric technicians
  • Research assistants or data analysts

After completing a specialized graduate degree, graduates can work as:

  • College or university professors
  • Industrial-organizational psychologists
  • Licensed marriage and family therapists
  • Psychiatrists
  • Social workers
Eimee smiling

Eimee Ponciano: Trusting God in the Uncertainty

Eimee Ponciano ’24 learns how to lead with grace and respect as she dives deep into her psychology major at APU.

Department of Psychology Faculty

Matthew Heller

Matthew Heller

Chair of Department of Undergraduate Psychology; Program Director of MS in Research Psychology; Associate Professor, Department of Psychology

Robert Linsalato

Robert Linsalato

Assistant Professor and Director, Professional Undergraduate Online Psychology, Department of Psychology

Achieve More at APU

Join a community in pursuit of academic excellence and meaningful service by enrolling in Azusa Pacific University’s psychology major. Through transformative hands-on training and faculty mentorship, you deepen your psychological science expertise and build a well-defined skill set to launch your career.

Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.

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