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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Gain an understanding of human development, behavior, and cognition while positioning yourself for diverse career options with our flexible and affordable online Bachelor's in Psychology.

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Betsy RamirezBA, Psychology
Online Bachelors in Psychology Student, Betsy Ramirez
Alarm Clock Next Start Date: October 28

Expand Your Career Options with an Online Bachelor's in Psychology

Ranked as the Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology in New England by U.S. News & World Report, the online Bachelor's Degree in Psychology gives you the skills to apply psychological principles to individuals, society and organizations. Through our curriculum, you will explore the theoretical foundations of experimental, developmental, social, community, personality and clinical psychology. Upon program completion, you may pursue careers in many fields, including mental health, education, research and business.

Career Outlook

Several psychology-specific occupations require completing a graduate degree, but many career paths are open to bachelor's degree holders, including positions in marketing, human resources and childcare.

4.79M
Jobs (2021)
+1.3%
% Change (2021-2026)
$63.5K/yr
Median Earnings
549,737
Annual Openings
Source: Lightcast, 2022

Occupations

  • Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors
  • Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors
  • Child, Family and School Social Workers
  • Healthcare Social Workers
  • Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists
  • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
  • Rehabilitation Counselors
  • Marriage and Family Therapists
  • Psychologists
  • Psychiatrists
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
"Employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is projected to grow 14% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Job growth during this same time period for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is predicted to be 23%. Greater demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and social service agencies should drive employment growth."
— U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2018

Key Takeaways

  • Demonstrate knowledge of key psychological concepts, theories and trends
  • Apply psychological research methods
  • Use critical thinking while evaluating behavior and mental processes
  • Reflect the ethical values underpinning the discipline
  • Understand the complexity of international diversity
  • Use your knowledge, skills and values in occupational pursuits or graduate-level studies

Success Story

"Twenty years after completing my associate's degree, I decided to go back to school and pursue a bachelor's degree. I choose UMass Lowell because it has a strong reputation and the program is available 100% online, which is important because I work full time and have a family. UMass Lowell accepted my prior college coursework from the community college I attended years ago, so I didn't have to start over from the beginning. Completing my bachelor's degree in psychology is helping me change careers to a field I love."

Kristen Wolfenden, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Kristen Wolfenden

Kristen Wolfenden

Best Online Bachelor's in Greater Boston
Best Online Bachelor's in Greater Boston

Curriculum Outline

- 40 Courses / 120 Credits
- View Course Descriptions »

Psychology Requirements (6 Courses / 18cr)

Experimental Psychology Elective (Choose 1 / 3cr)

Psychology Electives (Choose 3 / 9cr)

Below is a list of approved courses. Additional courses may be available. Speak with your advisor for more details.

Advanced Psychology Seminar (Choose 1 / 3cr)

Topics vary by semester.

Advanced Psychology Elective (Choose 1 / 3cr)

*Perequisites for PSYC.4690: PSYC.2690 Research Methods and PSYC.3690 Research Statistics with a grade of C or higher in both.

Free Electives (Choose 12 / 36cr)

This program gives you the freedom to choose any 12 courses that interest you. At least 2 courses must be at the 3000/4000 level. Transfer credits may also satisfy this requirement. You may also choose to pursue a minor. Please speak with your advisor for additional information.

Foreign Language Requirement (4-5 Courses / 12-15 Credits)

Choose the World Languages Track or the World Ready Track to fulfill your language requirement. Please complete the Language Requirement FAHSS Form to declare which track you will pursue upon acceptance into the Bachelor of Arts program.

Option 1: World Languages Track

Take four consecutive courses in Spanish or French.

  • ----.---- Foreign Language Level 1 (3cr)
  • ----.---- Foreign Language Level 2 (3cr)
  • ----.---- Foreign Language Level 3 (3cr)
  • ----.---- Foreign Language Level 4 (3cr)

Option 2: World Ready Track

Take two consecutive courses in a foreign language and three World Ready Track courses. World Ready Track courses are conducted in English and focus on the culture, civilization, philosophy, literature, history, politics of the region(s) in which the language you declared is spoken.

  • ----.---- Foreign Language Level 1 (3cr)
  • ----.---- Foreign Language Level 2 (3cr)
  • ----.---- World Ready Pre-Approved or Flex Course (3cr)
  • ----.---- World Ready Pre-Approved or Flex Course (3cr)
  • ----.---- World Ready Pre-Approved or Flex Course (3cr)

World Ready French Courses

World Ready Spanish Courses

    • ARCH.3140 American Architecture (Formerly ARHI.3140)
    • ARHI.3250 Studies in Latin American Art
    • ARHI.3350 The Golden Age of Spanish Art
    • PHIL.3880 Latin American Philosophy
    • PHIL.3880 Latin American Philosophy
    • POLI.3700 Latin American Politics
    • WLSP.3050 World Ready Topic Spanish Track

World Ready Flex Courses

To receive credit for World Ready Flex Courses, students must submit an Exception Form signed by the instructor by the end of the course acknowledging that the student completed substantive course work related to their chosen language track.

    • HIST.2740 Native American History
    • HIST.2960 United States Diplomatic History
    • HIST.2740 Native American History
    • ENGL.3410 Studies in Film
    • HIST.2490 The Vietnam War
    • HIST.2740 Native American History

For additional details on the foreign language requirements, visit the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences website https://www.uml.edu/FAHSS/Languages-Cultures/Language-Requirement.aspx.

University Core Curriculum Requirements (12 Courses / 36-38cr)

Under UMass Lowell's Core Curriculum, students must meet Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) requirements and Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs).

Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Requirements

Mathematics Perspective (1 Course / 3cr)
STEM Perspective (1 Course / 3cr)
  • ----.---- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Course (3cr)
College Writing I and II (2 Courses / 6cr)
Arts & Humanities Perspective (AH) (3 Courses / 9cr)
  • ----.---- Arts & Humanities (AH) Course (3cr)
  • ----.---- Arts & Humanities (AH) Course (3cr)
  • ----.---- Arts & Humanities (AH) Course (3cr)
Social Sciences Perspective (SS) (3 Courses / 9cr)
  • ----.---- Social Sciences (SS) Course (3cr)
  • ----.---- Social Sciences (SS) Course (3cr)
  • ----.---- Social Sciences (SS) Course (3cr)
Science with Lab Perspective (SCL) (2 Courses / 6-8cr)
  • ----.---- Science with Lab (SCL) Course (3/4cr)
  • ----.---- Science with Lab (SCL) Course (3/4cr)

Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs)

Students must meet the University's 7 Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs).

Course Descriptions

ENGL.1010 College Writing I (3cr)

A workshop course that thoroughly explores the writing process from pre-writing to revision, with an emphasis on critical thinking, sound essay structure, mechanics, and academic integrity. Students will read, conduct rhetorical analyses, and practice the skills required for participation in academic discourse. Students will write expository essays throughout the semester, producing a minimum of four formal essays.

ENGL.1020 College Writing II (3cr)

A workshop course that thoroughly explores the academic research writing process with an emphasis on entering into academic conversation. Building on the skills acquired in College Writing I, students will learn to write extensively with source material. Key skills addressed include finding,assessing, and integrating primary and secondary sources, and using proper documentation to ensure academic integrity. Students will produce analytical writing throughout the semester, including a minimum of four formal, researched essays.

MATH.2830 Introduction to Statistics (3cr)

An introduction to descriptive statistics, graphing and data analysis, probability laws, discrete and continuous probability distributions, correlation and regression, inferential statistics. No credit in Sciences (except Biology and EEAS) or Engineering. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Quantitative Literacy (QL).

Notes:

MATH.1115 or equivalent; MA; Previously 92.183

PSYC.1010 Introduction to Psychological Science (3cr)

An introduction course that focuses on application of the scientific method to major areas of psychology: biological, cognitive, developmental, social and personality, and mental and physical health. The course addresses the importance of social and cultural diversity, ethics, variations in human functioning, and applications to life and social action both within these areas and integrated across them. The research basis for knowledge in the field is emphasized.

Notes:

BS

PSYC.2090 Social Psychology (3cr)

Presents an introduction to the study of social behavior in interpersonal relationships, groups, organizations, and the community: Diversity in regard to groups of peoples, cultures, and views is emphasized. Topics include non-verbal communication, social attraction, attitudes and attitude change, group dynamics, prejudice, labeling, stereotyping, interpersonal influence, and applications to social problems. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Diversity and Cultural Awareness (DCA).

Notes:

Human Values, BSV

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req or co-req

PSYC.2320 Psychology of Personality (3cr)

An introduction to the study of human personality. This course uses both theory and contemporary empirical evidence to examine approaches to understanding individual differences. Theoretical approaches include psychoanalytic, humanistic, cognitive, trait, type, and behavioral. Applications to topics such as self-concept, anxiety, adjustment, and achievement motivation will be considered.

Notes:

BS

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req or co-req

PSYC.2550 Community Psychology (3cr)

Surveys the field of community psychology, including principles of social justice, diversity, and social change. The course reviews historical antecedents, paradigms, conceptual models, strategies and tactics of social and community change and action; examples from selected contexts and social systems, including education, mental health, community organizations, the workplace, health care, justice system, and social services will be employed. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Diversity and Cultural Awareness (DCA).

Notes:

BS

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req or co-req

PSYC.2600 Child and Adolescent Development (3cr)

The developmental science of childhood and adolescence. Major theoretical perspectives, research methods, and ethical issues are presented with respect to prenatal development, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and the transition to adulthood. Empirical evidence for development in relevant contexts across biological, psychological, and social domains is examined.

Notes:

SS; Formerly Human Development I

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req or co-req

PSYC.2690 Research Methods (3cr)

An introductory course on the fundamentals of empirical research in psychological science. Instruction will promote understanding and competence in the basic vocabulary of psychological research, addressing information literacy, measurement, reliability, and validity in observed variables and unobserved constructs. Students will learn critical components of experimental, quasi-experimental, and correlational designs, as well as the basics of descriptive statistics, hypothesis and statistical testing, and matching design to analysis strategies. Students will demonstrate this knowledge through he preparation of a research proposal. Finally, this course will provide students a strong basis from which to pursue advanced coursework in a variety of methodological approaches to psychological research. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Information Literacy (IL).

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.2730 Biological Psych (3cr)

Surveys issues and topics dealing with the physiological and evolutionary bases of behavior. Biological systems and processes that influence behavior are considered, with particular emphasis on brain mechanisms. Recent discoveries in the neurosciences will be presented. Methods of research are reviewed.

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.2760 Theories of Learning (3cr)

Traces the development of theories of learning from earlier global theories to more recent and more specific ones. Behavioral, cognitive, and physiological approaches are compared. Current issues of importance in the study of learning also are stressed.

Notes:

BS

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.2770 Sensation and Perception (3cr)

The course focuses on human sensations and perceptions. Students will examine how people know the objects and events of the world through hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting, moving, and touching. Students will also examine the foundations of experiences which correspond to independent measures of the world (veridical) and those which do not (illusory).

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.2780 Cognitive Psychology (3cr)

Provides an introductory overview of the research on mental processes including but not limited to: attention, perception, memory, learning and decision-making. The course will also connect cognitive psychological research to other branches of study, as well as real world domains such as education, law, and health.

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.3080 Industrial/Organizational Psychology (3cr)

An introduction to the application of psychological principles and methods to the work domain. Students will develop an understanding of the individual, social, and environmental factors as they relate to organizational performance. Intended as an introduction to the field of Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology, topics include personnel selection and evaluation, training and development, attitudes and motivation, leadership, group dynamics, diversity, organizational structure and climate, and job design and working conditions.

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.3120 Learning and Behavior (3cr)

Examines various methods and techniques suitable for the modification of human behavior, based on the principles and findings of experimental studies of animal and human behavior. Considers how such methods can be used in education, mental health and corrections, and self-directed personal change.

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.3350 Psychology and Women (3cr)

Considers such topics as: the psychology of sex differences; biological bases of psychological sex differences; the nature of female sexuality; clinical theory and practice concerning women; women as mental patients and mental health consumers; implications for psychology and for women's status.

Notes:

BS/SSD

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.3510 Human Sexuality (3cr)

Addresses the biological, psychosocial, and attitudinal aspects of human sexuality through lectures, discussions, films from a variety of perspectives.

Notes:

BS/SS

Requirements:

PSYC.1010 pre-req

PSYC.3600 Adult Development and Aging (3cr)

Begins with an overview of recent theoretical perspectives on adult development and aging. In chronological sequence, it presents the stages of adulthood and concludes with death and dying. Topics covered include personal, family, and vocational development through adulthood, gender pattern differences, and the impact of changing demographics, including the lengthening of the life span.

Notes:

SS; Formerly Human Development II

Requirements:

PSYC 1010,260 pre-reqs

PSYC.3630 Introduction to Disability Studies (3cr)

This course provides students with a wide range of interests and backgrounds with the opportunity to examine their own mental model(attitudes/values/ assumptions) of disability. It includes an overview of the nature of intellectual disability and other disabilities and it provides opportunities to explore and understand the historical social response to disability. Students will look at a range of strategies for providing support and intervention and they will learn about how to effect change through a variety of strategies, including advocacy.

Notes:

SSDE

Requirements:

PHYC.1010, no FAHS.3630

PSYC.3690 Research Statistics (3cr)

An intermediate level course building on competence in quantitative reasoning skills and the fundamentals of research methods, and focusing on descriptive and inferential statistics and their application and interpretation. The course will include basic computational approaches; the primary goal is for students to develop the ability to articulate and apply statistical concepts, and communicate statistical results. The course includes topics in basic inferential statistics from z-scores up to and including chi-square and factorial ANOVA. Students will learn to use a database and conduct statistical analyses using standard software packages. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Quantitative Literacy (QL).

Requirements:

'c' or better in PSYC.2690

PSYC.4690 Research Laboratory (3cr)

An advanced course in which students design and carry out an empirical research project from start to finish, resulting in an individually written research report using APA style and an oral presentation. The primary goal is for students to experience discovery by completing an original study that reasonably extends the prior research literature. Topics may vary, reflecting the interests of the instructor. Students will perform literature reviews; formulate a research question; operationalize variables; develop research designs; obtained ethical review and approval; and collect, analyze, and interpret data. Students will also demonstrate knowledge of the research process in assessments that may include assignments, quizzes, or exams. Meets Core Curriculum Essential Learning Outcome for Applied & Integrative Learning (AIL) and Critical Thinking & Problem Solving (CTPS).

PSYC.4731 Seminar in Social Psychology: Social (In)justice (3cr)

An advances seminar to consider special topics in social psychology with focus on critique of the theoretical and empirical literature, identification of future research pathways, and the potential for application with consideration of ethics and social responsibility. The topic of this seminar is social injustice, its causes, manifestations, explanations, and social psychological theories that help us understand them. We will explore how and why social injustice prevails in today's world full of resources; why small number of people own majority of world's wealth; why some countries are poorer than others. We will study our own standpoints and where they come from and we will work on possible remedies that could lead to a more just world.

PSYC.4750 Seminar in Clinical Psychology (3cr)

An advanced seminar to consider special topics in clinical psychology, with special focus on critique of the theoretical and empirical literature, identification of future research pathways, and the potential for application with consideration of ethics and social responsibility. Specific topics will vary and may include such topics as health psychology and behavioral medicine; the nature and causes of or interventions for specific psychological disorders (e.g.,autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia); the community mental health movement; clinical methods of assessment. This is a writing intensive course.

Requirements:

PSYC 1010, 269 pre-req

PSYC.4752 Seminar in Clinical Psychology: Autism (3cr)

An advanced seminar to consider special topics in clinical psychology with focus on critique of the theoretical and empirical literature, identification of future research pathways, and the potential for application with consideration of ethics and social responsibility. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological disorder that typically appears before the age of three and immediately and profoundly affects a young child's ability to communicate, develop language, form social relationships and respond appropriately to environmental cues. Over the last 15-20 years, autism has received an increasing level of attention in both scientific arenas and the popular press. Most recent estimates are that about 1 in 50 children are affected. This seminar will examine issues in the etiology, characteristics and treatment of autism and related developmental disabilities. The seminar will also explore some of the more prominent theories and controversies surrounding these disorders. Much of the seminar will be focused on a behavioral approach to understanding and treating children with autism and significant intellectual challenges. This is a writing-intensive course.

PSYC.4771 Seminar in Contemporary Trends: Addictions (3cr)

An advanced seminar to consider special current topics in psychology with focus on critique of the theoretical and empirical literature, identification of future research pathways, and the potential for application with consideration of ethics and social responsibility. The focus of this seminar is on the psychology of addictions. Drawing upon current theory and research, we will look at the nature and causes of the problem behaviors associated with alcohol and drug use. We will also consider whether problems in such areas as shopping, eating, gambling, sex, video games, and the Internet can be understood as forms of addictions. In addition, we will examine the implications of whether or not such addictions should be viewed as diseases, and we will evaluate the relative importance of biological, psychological and socio-cultural factors. This is a writing-intensive course.

PSYC.4780 Seminar in Cognitive Psychology (3cr)

An advanced seminar to consider special topics in cognitive psychology, with special focus on critique of the theoretical and empirical literature, identification of future research pathways, and the potential for application with consideration of ethics and social responsibility. Specific topics will vary and may include such topics as attention and memory; mental imagery; decision-making; language; applications of cognitive psychology to education. This is a writing intensive course.

Requirements:

PSYC 1010, 269 pre-req

PSYC.4820 Dvptl Disabilities Fieldwork: Service Provision (3cr)

In this fieldwork course we explore standards for support and service provision within human services and compare experiences in field placements with these standards, seeking to understand the forces that support or interfere with realizing best practices in disability services. The foundation for this blended learning course (half the classes meet in-person, half online) will be 60 hours fieldwork with an individual with an intellectual/developmental disability. This course integrates course material with field placement experiences through presentation, discussion, group work, case study, and video materials that address course objectives. Each student will have the time to develop an understanding of a person with I/DD, and how individualized planning can facilitate social inclusion.

PSYC.4910 Directed Study: Psychology (3cr)

Through frequent consultation with the instructor, the student carries out the investigation of a particularly specialized area of interest. This course may be repeated, but no more than 12 credits from any combination of PSYC.486, PSYC.488, and PSYC.491 may be counted toward the degree.

Requirements:

PSYC 1010, 269 pre-req

Undergraduate Degree Requirements

All bachelor's degree candidates are required to earn a minimum 2.000 cumulative grade point average (GPA), to present a minimum of 120 semester hours, to fulfill the residency requirements, to conform to the general regulations and requirements of the University, to satisfy the regulations and academic standards of the colleges which exercise jurisdiction over the degrees for which they are matriculating, to satisfy the curriculum requirements established by the departments or programs in their major, and to complete the University's Core Curriculum requirements, which are listed within the program's curriculum outline. For additional information regarding the University's general policies and procedures, transfer credit information and residency requirements; please refer to our Academic Policies & Procedures.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition at UMass Lowell is typically half the cost of private colleges, and our online tuition is among the lowest in the nation. Tuition for online programs offered through the Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies is the same whether you live in-state, out-of-state or outside of the U.S.

Fall 2024 Tuition

Cost Per Credit Cost Per 3-Credit Course*

Undergraduate

Online and On Campus $385 $1,155
*Tuition is priced on the listed credit hour unless the contact hour is different. Tuition is then based upon the listed contact hour.

Additional Costs

Cost
Term Registration Fee $30
Returned Check Fee $30
Undergraduate Degree Application $60

Please note: Tuition and fees are subject to change.

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Looking for Financial Assistance?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Bachelor's in Psychology right for me?

If you're interested in human behavior and are motivated to help others, a Psychology degree is for you. Many Psychology majors proceed to graduate school to reach specific career goals, such as becoming a therapist or a counselor. However, a Bachelor's in Psychology will pave the way for many different career opportunities, including positions that extend into business, education and ministry work. A Bachelor's in Psychology will empower you to make a difference at individual and organizational levels.


Why are Psychology degrees so popular?

Psychology is an exciting discipline that helps students understand themselves and others. This degree will expose you to trends and patterns and enable you to make valuable observations. There is a demand for Psychology majors because human services are a skill most organizations require.


How do I become a therapist with a Psychology degree?

If you want to become a therapist, a B.A. in Psychology is an excellent place to start. A Bachelor's in Psychology will lay the foundation for studying human behavior and mental health. However, you will need a master's to become a licensed therapist or a counselor.


How long does it take to complete my degree online?

With our generous transfer policy, you can complete your bachelor's in as little as 12-36 months, but you have as much time as you need to complete the bachelor's degree program. There are no time limits placed on your progress.


Apply

Applying into an Undergraduate Degree Program

Complete the Online Undergraduate Degree Application Form (preferred), or print, complete and submit the Undergraduate Degree Application .pdf form. Please note: Your application will be processed once we have received your $60 application fee. Return your completed application along with your application fee to:

University of Massachusetts Lowell
Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies
GPS Admissions
839 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA 01854

Questions? See our helpful Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for acceptance into a bachelor's degree program offered through the Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies, students must hold a high school diploma or have passed either the GED® or HiSET®. Graduate, Online & Professional Studies operates on a rolling admissions basis and each application is reviewed when the student's file is complete. Students must be admitted to a degree or certificate program in order to be eligible for most financial aid.

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Questions Regarding Your Undergraduate Application?

Email OCE_Admissions@uml.edu or call 978-934-2474.

For General Assistance:

Call the Advising Center at 978-934-2474 or 800-480-3190. Our academic advisors are here to help!

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