Psychology Bachelor’s Degrees (BA/BS)
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duration
4 Years
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format
BA: In-Seat, Online, BS: In-Seat
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location
Charleston and Online
Program Overview
This program helps you better understand the behavior and processes of organisms, and to learn to appreciate psychology as a discipline, a science, and a profession. Our unique program offers two tracks: Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS). The BS is offered for in-seat students while the BA can be completed either in-seat or online.
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The Bachelor of Arts track is designed for those who are more interested in the practice of psychology. Those who are not particularly interested in research but want to enter the human services field often choose this track.
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
The Bachelor of Science track is more heavily focused on research in psychology. Students in this track will design and conduct their own research project prior to graduation.
In large part, students in the BS and BA tracks complete similar sequences of courses to achieve their degrees. Students pursuing the BS track typically follow a curriculum that includes more math and science courses, while those seeking a BA track will take courses that focus on more traditional liberal arts courses.
Both tracks prepare students for graduate study in psychology, counseling, social work, and other related fields.
Online or In-Seat Degree Program Options
The University of Charleston offers flexibility for students pursuing a psychology degree, whether they prefer an on-campus or online learning experience. The Bachelor of Science in Psychology is available exclusively on-campus, providing hands-on research opportunities and in-person collaboration with faculty and peers.
The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology offers the same strong foundation in psychology but with the option to complete the program either on-campus or fully online. This online format is ideal for students seeking a more flexible learning schedule, allowing them to balance their education with work or personal commitments while still gaining the knowledge and skills needed for careers in psychology and related fields.
Freshman applicants with a 2.5 or higher high school GPA and transfer students with a 2.0 or higher cumulative college GPA are eligible for general admission to UC and will gain direct entry into this program. Students may apply online here.
STEM Optional Practical Training programs are recognized by the U.S. government as beneficial to students and employers. Through these programs, international students gain essential, in-demand skills, and can extend their 12 month OPT an additional 24 months.
Program Highlights
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Internships and service-learning experiences related to clinical, counseling and forensic psychology, as well as other fields of interest, are available
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Unique, two-track option to help you reach your career goals.
The online Psychology degree option gives you the freedom to learn from anywhere while gaining the skills needed for careers in psychology.
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Professional networking opportunities, as well as opportunities for travel to areas around the country and the world.
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The program has two organizations associated with it – Psi Chi, the international honor society for the study of psychology, and The Psychology Club, open to anyone with interest in the field of psychology.
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Psychology is also available as a minor.
Program Outcomes
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Post-Undergraduate Job Opportunities
- Behavioral Health Technician
- Case Manager
- Corrections (Correctional Officer, Parole Officer)
- Human Resource Manager
- Psychometrician
- Researcher
- Skills Trainer
- Supportive Counselor
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Post-Graduate Degree Job Opportunities
- Professor
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Researcher
- Therapist
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Excellent Graduate School Placement
100% of UC Psychology majors who applied to graduate school over the past ten years have been accepted.
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Professional Experience
Our students present and compete at several national professional events in the fall and spring, providing opportunities to gain confidence, develop critical thinking, and to network with other psychology students.
Additional Information
The Psi Chi Honor Society is the international honor society for the study of psychology. To achieve membership in Psi Chi, students must:
- Meet the academic standards established by the organization
- Be recommended by the faculty for membership
- Be approved as members by current Psi Chi members
The Psychology Club is open to anyone, regardless of major, who has an interest in the field of psychology.
