Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Degree
The Psychology Department endeavors to cultivate appreciation of and skill in, the implementation of the methods of inquiry and theoretical models employed by contemporary psychological scientists, scholars, and practitioners. Improved understanding of mental and behavioral processes enhances the life experience and improves coping skills for the practical and ethical demands of work and personal relationships.
Students who successfully complete a major program in psychology will be able to:
- Identify and articulate major concepts, theories, and research findings in psychology
- Identify, read, and critically evaluate professional literature in psychology-related fields;
- Design, conduct, analyze, interpret, and communicate the findings of empirical studies;
- For those students who wish to pursue employment in helping professions (e.g., counseling or education): demonstrate basic knowledge and skills relevant to their projected careers.
The educational objectives which emerge from the mission and purpose of the department are:
The Psychology department offers four concentrations of study leading to the baccalaureate degree: General Psychology, Art Therapy, Child Development, and Counseling and Mental Health.
Why The B.A. In Psychology At Albertus Magnus College?
Where Will Your Degree Take You?
Case Management
Career Counselor
Rehabilitation Specialist
Psychiatric Technician
Child Psychologist
Psychotherapist
General Psychology Concentration (39 credits)
The purpose of this program is to provide students with a broad background in contemporary psychology and its theoretical foundations, with a strong emphasis on research methods. It is flexible, and can be tailored to meet students' interests. This program is strongly recommended for students intending to pursue advanced studies in psychology or related fields. The critical thinking skills fostered by this concentration are useful in many academic and professional settings.
Three other courses in psychology (9 credits)
The student and the advisor should agree upon these three additional courses. They may be drawn from the above lists or from other departmental offerings.
Art Therapy Concentration (45 credits, including 33 in psychology and 12 in studio art)
This program provides preparation for specialized training in the use of creative arts in psychotherapy. The art therapist, working with other mental health professionals, offers clients an outlet for creative expression and a method for enhancing self-esteem via personal communication using various media. Students may pursue graduate training in art therapy or other mental health fields.
*Note: AR 213 (Color) is a pre-requisite for AR 311 (Painting)
Studio art electives (minimum of 3 credits)
Note: Admission to graduate art therapy programs requires a minimum of 18 credits in studio art. Students are strongly encouraged to take at least two additional studio art courses beyond those required for the major.
Child Development Concentration (42 credits)
This program provides structured preparation for work with typically developing or exceptional children. Students generally pursue employment or graduate studies in education or in clinical fields that emphasize work with children.
Counseling and Mental Health Concentration (42 credits)
This concentration provides structured preparation for work in the prevention and remediation of emotional, behavioral, and educational problems. Students generally pursue employment or graduate studies in counseling or related fields.
Psychology Minor (18 credits)
The psychology minor provides an overview of the field and includes the following courses: