Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA)
Explore the science that explains how people think, learn, and behave. This Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at American Public University (APU) introduces students to the leading theories surrounding the functions of the human mind.
About APU’s Online Psychology Bachelor’s Degree
This online psychology degree program explores the science behind human behavior and examines how the mind collects and interprets information. The curriculum draws from key areas within the psychology field, including developmental, organizational, and abnormal psychology. Students discuss how cognitive processes support learning abilities and shape behavioral patterns.
Courses also cover the leading theories that offer insight into the habits and tendencies of different personality types. In addition, the program addresses how repeated exposure to environmental stimuli can condition the mind, influencing emotional responses as well as decision-making.
Class discussions and written assignments integrate case study reviews to help sharpen career-relevant skills and encourage critical thinking. Students learn how to conduct research ethically and consider how findings apply to vocational, academic, and clinical settings.
APU’s online psychology program is led by faculty members with diverse expertise and real-world experience in private practice, clinical settings, and consultative work.
NOTE: A bachelor’s in psychology does not provide licensure; preparation for licensure; or professional certification required for mental health counselors, practitioners, or psychologists.
APU’s Online Degree Program Provides a Career-Relevant Education in Psychology
APU’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program explores the relationship between environment, cognition, and behavior. Coursework helps sharpen critical-thinking and research skills as students learn how psychologists make breakthrough discoveries about the human mind.
Psychology majors also:
- Explore and articulate core theories and concepts within psychological science, such as developmental psychology and abnormal psychology
- Assess and evaluate psychological research using the scientific method and quantitative reasoning (descriptive and inferential statistics, for example) to unravel the mysteries of human behavior and address real-world challenges
- Gain a deep understanding of the roles, ethical norms, and responsibilities of psychology professionals in research methods, mental health, and professional practice
- Acquire professional communication skills to effectively share psychology knowledge with audiences across clinical, academic, and workplace contexts
- Build a portfolio of qualifications and skills that include proficiency in project management and collaboration, a strong work ethic, competency in modern technologies, and a keen sense of professional direction
This online psychology program provides an overview of the mental processes that influence individual and group behavior. Students also discuss how researchers conduct laboratory and field-based studies to test hypotheses and uncover new insights about how people think. Coursework sharpens analytical skills as learners consider how psychological research has evolved throughout history.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Human services assistants, who support the delivery of social and human services programs by assisting clients and professionals in community organizations and support agencies
- Behavioral health technicians, who assist with behavioral health programs and support services under the supervision of licensed professionals
- Market research or consumer behavior analysts, who apply psychological insights to support market research and analyze consumer attitudes
APU’s online program may also help lay the groundwork to pursue more advanced study in psychology, counseling, social work, or related disciplines.
This online program helps students build career-relevant research and communication skills as they examine the science behind human behavior. Courses also cover the prominent schools of thought that shape the psychology field today and inspire new research into how people think, learn, and interact.
Graduates are prepared to:
- Analyze major psychological theories and concepts related to human behavior, cognition, and emotion
- Apply psychological principles to understand individual and group behavior in everyday and organizational contexts
- Design basic psychological research using ethical qualitative and quantitative methods
- Interpret psychological research findings and data using critical thinking and statistical reasoning
- Evaluate ethical standards and professional issues in psychological research and practice
- Communicate psychological concepts and research findings clearly to various audiences
“ There's not a field out there that doesn't involve psychology in some form or fashion. There's room for people in psychology in just about every discipline. ”
Browse Psychology Courses from APU's Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
This online psychology degree program combines general education courses with major-specific coursework, electives, and a senior seminar. As students progress through the curriculum, they are introduced to the foundational theories that shape the behavioral sciences and form the basis of modern psychological research.
Courses also address how the mind/body connection influences perception. Students examine the mental faculties that underlie learning, memory, sensory processing, and emotions. In addition, the program explores how common psychological disorders are identified and diagnosed.
All Course Requirements for the Online Bachelor's in Psychology
Connect with APU’s Psychology Community Beyond the Virtual Classroom
APU connects classmates, alumni, and faculty through dozens of online communities and organizations. Psychology majors may be especially interested in joining Active Minds, the Psychology Club, or the Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society.
The University also encourages students to get involved through campus leadership opportunities and volunteer work. Learn more about student life at APU.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
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Learn MoreChoose APU for an Affordable Bachelor’s in Psychology
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Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
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APU makes it easy to earn credit for the work you’ve already done. We accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, professional training, exams, and certifications. We’ll evaluate your transcripts at no cost and help you maximize eligible credits so you can save time, reduce costs, and stay focused on reaching your education goals sooner.
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We’re committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. APU participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office can provide personalized guidance to help you understand your options, complete required forms, and make an informed decision about paying for your education.
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In addition to federal financial aid, some APU students choose to explore private education loans or external scholarships to help fund their studies. We encourage all students to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student aid before considering private options. Be sure to research lenders carefully, compare terms, and understand your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.
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Apply to APU’s Online Psychology Program Today
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Learn More About Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
A bachelor’s in psychology may be worthwhile for students who want to deepen their understanding of human behavior and the science behind how people think. Coursework builds a foundation for further education while sharpening students’ communication, research, and problem-solving skills.
APU’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology explores topics such as developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and mental health. Courses also examine appropriate research methods for conducting ethical laboratory and field-based studies. Students consider how psychology concepts may apply in clinical, academic, and workplace contexts.
Degree-holders may pursue graduate-level study in psychology or related fields to help prepare for professional opportunities, such as roles in counseling or social work. A bachelor’s degree in psychology does not provide licensure, preparation for licensure, or professional certification required for mental health counselors, practitioners, psychologists, or social workers. Requirements vary by role and state.
A bachelor’s degree in psychology can help you prepare for entry-level roles in a wide range of fields, such as human services. Coursework helps deepen your understanding of human behavior as you learn how people think, communicate, and make decisions.
A psychology bachelor’s degree may also help lay the groundwork to pursue further study, which may be required for aspiring mental health professionals. Education, licensure, and certification requirements may vary by state for counselors, clinical psychologists, school psychologists, and other practitioners.
Pursuing a psychology degree can be both challenging and fulfilling. Coursework requires scientific reasoning as students discuss the formal research methods that produce new insights into human behavior. Learners also demonstrate critical thinking as they evaluate modern psychological theories and review major scientific breakthroughs that have shaped the psychology field throughout history.
Success in a psychology program often requires a genuine interest in the complexities of the human mind and an eagerness to understand how people think and behave. Required coursework challenges students as they consider how psychology affects everyday experiences as well as relationships, learning, work, and health.
A psychology degree may be offered as either a BA or a BS, depending on the school and program. A BA in Psychology often includes a broader liberal arts framework while still covering psychological theories, human behavior, research methods, and related social science topics. Alternatively, a BS in Psychology may place more emphasis on scientific, technical, or laboratory-based coursework.
APU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
Psychology is popular because it explores questions that arise throughout everyday life, offering insights into how people think, learn, behave, communicate, and respond to their environments. These insights help people connect to one another and have practical applications across vocational, academic, and clinical environments.
Students may also be drawn to psychology programs if they are interested in pursuing paths in counseling, clinical psychology, social work, research, or related areas. Education, licensure, and certification requirements may vary by state for each field.
With more than 200 career-relevant degrees and certificates, APU makes online education accessible and affordable.
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