<h2 id="section---FrequentlyAskedQuestions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <h3 id="section---WhatKindOfProgramIsIt">What Kind of Program Is It?</h3> <p>From the history of psychology to theories of personality and counseling, the online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at California Baptist University is designed to address all aspects of psychological thought, human development, and research. In upper-division courses, you will have the opportunity to learn about cognitive, motor, and emotional development throughout life; influences on behavior and behavioral development; historical and contemporary systems in psychology; the relationship between behavior and brain function; therapeutic counseling practices; and types of psychological and neurological disorders. Methodology courses focus on behavioral science research methods, data interpretation, and the integration of Christian faith and behavioral science. In the integrative capstone requirement, you will be asked to examine and demonstrate your understanding of the integration between the major area of study and the Christian faith as it relates to your personal goals. Courses discussing Christian thought and biblical writings are also taken. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreThePrerequisites">What Are the Prerequisites?</h3> <p>Before taking any courses in the BA - Psychology program, you must complete prerequisites in composition, intermediate algebra, and introductory psychology. It is also helpful to demonstrate strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, as these abilities are important to many professions in and relating to psychology and social services. Applicants to California Baptist University should have a high school diploma or GED; some programs may have additional requirements. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheCourseRequirements">What Are the Course Requirements?</h3> <p>The 50 credits comprising the major curriculum of the BA in Psychology program consist of 20 credits in methodology courses, 24 credits in upper-division coursework, and six credits in two additional Christian-focused classes. You must also complete 40-43 general education credits to earn this degree. </p> <p><u>Methodology Requirements</u> </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th>Course Code</th><th>Course Title</th></tr> <tr><td>BEH 250</td><td> Reading &amp; Writing in the Behavioral Sciences</td></tr> <tr><td>BEH 290</td><td> Introduction to Research Methods</td></tr> <tr><td>BEH 333</td><td> Epistemology and Worldview</td></tr> <tr><td>BEH 383</td><td> Statistics and Research Methodology I</td></tr> <tr><td>BEH 385</td><td> Statistics and Research Methodology II</td></tr> <tr><td>BEH 480</td><td> Capstone</td></tr> </table><p><u>Upper Division Requirements</u> </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th>Course Code</th><th>Course Title</th></tr> <tr><td>PSY 301</td><td> History and Systems of Psychology</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 320</td><td> Lifespan Development</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 322</td><td> Theories of Personality</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 325</td><td> Tests and Measurements</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 328</td><td> Cognitive Psychology</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 346</td><td> Abnormal Psychology</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 422</td><td> Theories of Counseling</td></tr> <tr><td>PSY 473</td><td> Psychophysiology</td></tr> </table><p><u>Additional Program Courses</u> </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th>Course Code</th><th>Course Title</th></tr> <tr><td>CST 100</td><td> Overview of the Bible</td></tr> <tr><td>CST 302</td><td> Foundations of Christian Thought</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatCouldIDoAfterIGraduate">What Could I Do After I Graduate?</h3> <h4 id="section---CareerOpportunities">Career Opportunities</h4> <p>Having earned the Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, you could be prepared to explore employment opportunities in schools, community centers, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, corporate HR departments, or outreach programs. You might oversee or assist in the management of family therapy services, substance abuse counseling, employee relations, child placement services, school intervention programs, or career development programs. </p> <p>Some diverse positions that might be a good fit include: </p> <ul><li>Caseworker </li><li>Employment counselor </li><li>Human resource advisor </li><li>Substance abuse counselor </li><li>Child development specialist </li></ul><h4 id="section---AdvancedDegrees">Advanced Degrees</h4> <p>Should you have an interest in pursuing more advanced positions in clinical counseling, psychotherapy, or executive levels in HR departments or community organizations, you will likely need to earn a master's degree following completion of the BA in Psychology program. Master's degree studies allow you to take more in-depth courses addressing counseling theories, cognitive development, research methodologies, and professional counseling techniques. </p> <p>Common master's degree programs for graduates of the BA - Psychology program would be: </p> <ul><li>Master of Arts in Psychology </li><li>Master of Science in Counseling </li><li>Master of Science in Counseling Psychology</li></ul>