Proceeding from a Judeo-Christian understanding of humans created in the image of God, the psychology major explores multiple perspectives of human nature, including biological, behavioral, cognitive, social-cultural, and spiritual. All students learn the skills necessary to conduct research and to carefully evaluate others’ research, with the goal of increasing our understanding of human nature.

The psychology major is designed to prepare the student for their next step after undergraduate studies, whether it is immediate employment, graduate school, or ministry.

Course offerings in the psychology major provide insight into: 1) current research findings and major psychological theories, including their historical and philosophical underpinnings; 2) methods for studying human behavior; 3) integration of Judeo-Christian faith tradition with the field of psychology; and 4) practicum experience in the application of psychology at off-campus locations.

The Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts degree requires a minimum of 120 semester hours of study. Students in this program must complete 48 hours of Core General Education courses, 30-36 hours within their chosen major, 30 hours of Biblical and Theological Studies courses, and 3 hours of Christian or Community service. Each student, in consultation with his/her advisor, must declare a major no later than the end of the sophomore year. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 30 units of study at Patten University.