Psychology

What is a Psychology degree?

Offered through UIU’s School of Arts and Sciences, the Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology offers students a broad understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Program curriculum is centered on biological foundations, development, learning, cognition, personality, abnormal psychology and social behavior.

Students pursuing a degree in Psychology at UIU engage in conceptual and experiential learning activities in the classroom and through possible internship opportunities.

A minor in Psychology is also available if you’re interested in the subject but plan to major in another area.

Getting your Psychology Degree Online

Get the same high-quality psychology education that you would get from a UIU classroom, at home or in your office. UIU offers an online psychology degree program as well as in-person and distance learning options to meet your educational needs.

How to apply

To apply, visit our Online Application portal to create an account and start your application. Still unsure if the bachelor’s degree in Psychology is right for you? Reach out to our admissions office to ask specific questions or request additional information.

Careers in Psychology

A Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology prepares you for a variety of careers within and beyond the psychology field.
Many graduates realize rewarding careers in social services, non-profit organizations, education, for-profit corporations and more.

Graduates with a degree in Psychology often have job titles like:

• Case manager
• Counselor
• Public Relations/Marketing Specialist
• Human Resource Specialist
• Social Worker
• Victim Advocate

Before you start your job search, remember to visit the UIU Office of Career Development for complimentary services that can help you find the perfect job.

Psychology Salary Information

Salaries for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology vary based on factors like job title, location and years of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some average salaries for psychology-related careers include:

• Counselor – $47,660^[1]
• Public Relations/Marketing Specialist – $62,810^[2]
• Human Resource Specialist – $63,490^[3]
• Social Worker – $51,760^[4]

Benefits of a Psychology Degree

By earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of human behavior and mental processes that can be applied across industries and professions. The knowledge and practical skills you develop at UIU give you a competitive advantage in the workforce.

A degree in Psychology also provides a strong foundation for graduate study, which can further expand your career opportunities. UIU’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Master of Science in Counseling (MSC) are excellent options for those who have completed their Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology.

Psychology Courses

UIU’s engaging program curriculum covers a broad range of topics in the field of Psychology, including major approaches, strategies and methodologies. An expansive course selection allows you to develop specialized areas of interest.

Core courses focus on topics including:

• General Psychology
• Cognition
• Learning and Memory
• Social Psychology
• Personality
• Developmental Psychology

Psychology Skills

UIU’s degree in Psychology ensures that you graduate with the essential hard and soft skills necessary for professional success, including^[5]:

• Research, Methodologies and Statistical Analysis
• Clinical Reasoning
• Communication
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Effective Listening

Best Minors for Psychology Majors

UIU offers a wide range of minors that complement a degree in Psychology. Selecting a minor allows you to explore a related interest, while enhancing your resume and building important skills for the workplace. Some minors commonly paired with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology include:

• Biology
• Communications Studies
• Health Services Administration
• Marketing
• Sociology

Many graduates also go on to pursue advanced degrees and professional licensure. UIU offers graduate degrees in the fields of education and counseling. Once you’ve earned your Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, consider applying to UIU’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Master of Science in Counseling (MSC) programs.

Can I get an accredited psychology degree online?

Yes! UIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers students the same high-quality psychology education online as you would receive in the classroom. You can choose from several convenient Distance Learning options.

How long does it take to get a psychology degree?

At UIU, you can complete your bachelor’s degree in Psychology in about four years.

UIU’s unique course schedule breaks the academic year into eight-week sessions and an accelerated six-week summer session. This allows you more time to focus on your courses and balance your academic life with your other commitments. Learn more about UIU’s course schedule.

What is the difference between a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology?

Both degrees offer a foundational understanding of the field of Psychology, but they do differ. One primary difference is that a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology generally emphasizes math and science requirements, while a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology typically requires more liberal arts courses. It is important to consider your unique interests and professional goals when deciding which degree is right for you. Reach out to our admissions office to request additional information.

Yes, though faculty are not obligated to write a letter. Allow faculty at least two weeks to complete this task. Fayette students should complete two electronic documents on myUIU and provide them to that faculty member.

Yes, we have both Psychology Club and the International Honor Society in Psychology. The Psychology Club is open to anyone. Psi Chi does have GPA requirements and a one-time membership fee, but also offers resources to students include scholarship and research opportunities.

Yes.  Students can volunteer to help faculty with ongoing projects or propose research for their PSY 499 Special Project class.

Yes. The department tries to take students to Ireland every two years. Students can earn course credit in PSY 201 Adjustment or ID 200 Cultures.

Students have worked with a wide range of agencies, including long-term care facilities, hospice facilities, childcare centers, agencies advocating for individuals with disabilities, and youth summer camps.