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B.A. in Psychology

Psychology is all about understanding how people think, behave and relate. Biola’s psychology major recognizes that a Christian worldview is an essential part of this understanding, which is why it integrates the scientific study of human behavior with a biblical understanding of human nature. Your undergraduate degree from Biola's B.A. in Psychology program will equip you for ministry, graduate schools in multiple areas of psychology and social work, or a variety of career opportunities, such as in business, education, research, health professions and social services.

Critical thinking, diagnostic and communication skills developed in the B.A. in Psychology program will also translate to a number of humanities and social sciences career paths, as well as psychology-adjacent fields such as political science and human resources.

Bachelor's degree students interested in online learning options should consider the online B.S. in Psychology degree.

In addition to its strong curriculum, expert faculty members and biblical integration, Biola’s psychology program offers several key advantages:

  • The Biola Counseling Center and the doctoral programs at Rosemead School of Psychology are available as additional resources to students for personal and educational use.
  • Psi Chi, the national honor society for psychology majors, provides opportunities for professional development, educational enrichment and personal interaction between undergraduates and professors.
  • Rosemead School of Psychology has a strong academic reputation, bolstered by its role in publishing the Journal of Psychology and Theology, a leading publication of its kind.
  • The Directed Fieldwork and Research Assistantship options in the psychology major allow you to gain valuable off- or on-campus experience in various psychological settings, internship sites and research labs while earning academic credits.

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Courses

What will I study as a psychology major?

The psychology curriculum is rooted in developing an understanding of a broad spectrum of issues concerning human nature and functioning from a Christian worldview. In addition to coursework from multiple areas of specialization, you will be taught how to integrate and apply theology and biblical knowledge to psychological concepts and research. Career-relevant and example specialization course topics you can learn about include:

  • Application of Christian thought to psychology
  • Basic statistics for psychological research
  • Analysis of the experimental method
  • Theory and research related to lifespan development
  • Focus on the underlying cognitive processes of behavior
  • An overview of personality theories
  • Cross-cultural and ethical issues as it relates to prejudices
  • Physiological bases and application in human behavior
  • Discovery of factors that contribute to flourishing communities
  • How to actively use psychological knowledge to minister to the family, the church and the wider secular community

Bible and Theology Coursework

As part of Biola’s commitment to a biblically centered education, most undergraduate students complete 30 credits of biblical and theological studies as a part of their degree program. Learn more about our Bible and theology core.

Career Outlook and Preparation

What Can You Do with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology?

Biola's psychology degree provides exceptional general preparation for a wide-range of psychology-related careers and ministries. Biola graduates can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ with their B.A. degree or subsequent graduate degrees in professions such as:

  • Clinical psychology
  • Criminal or forensic psychology
  • Experimental psychology
  • Industrial-organizational psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • School psychology
  • Sports psychology
  • Career or vocational counseling
  • Neuropsychology
  • Recreational Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Data Science
  • Market Research Analysis
  • Education
  • Social Services
  • Business

In addition, Biola graduates from the psychology major have gone on to study at the following distinguished graduate schools:

  • Chapman University; University of California, Los Angeles; University of Southern California; Claremont McKenna College; University of Washington; Yale University; Baylor University' Talbot School of Theology; Dallas Theological Seminary; Rosemead School of Psychology; Azusa Pacific University; Fuller School of Psychology; George Fox University; Pepperdine University; University of Maryland; University of New Mexico; University of Edinburgh (Scotland)

6% job growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for psychologists is projected to be as fast as average between 2021 and 2031.

BLS projections are not specific to Biola University students or graduates.


Noah Love

One of the most wonderful things about Biola is that professors there are so concerned with educating students as whole people, not just meeting certain academic outcomes. I was deeply mentored and educated by my Biola professors in ways that I am constantly grateful for, and that have benefited me in every domain of life.

Project Manager at University of Pennsylvania
Psychology, B.A. ‘21
Jonathan Joyce

The faculty and staff at Biola really go out of their way to make sure each student is taken care of; not only in their academic journey but in their personal/spiritual journey as well.

Student in College Counseling and Student Development at Azusa Pacific University/Works at the International Center and Center for Student Action at Azusa Pacific University
Psychology, B.A. '15, Intercultural Studies, M.A. '17

Admissions

Admissions Process

Learn about Biola’s admissions requirements, steps to apply, application deadlines and more at our Undergraduate Admissions page.

Schedule a Visit

Learn more about this program by attending an upcoming event for prospective students and parents, or by scheduling a personalized visit.

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Tuition and Financial Aid

Attaining a degree from Biola is more affordable than you might think — dramatically lower than the “sticker price” in most cases — with 100% of incoming undergraduate students receiving some form of financial aid.

Faculty


FAQ

How long does it typically take to complete a B.A. in Psychology?

Our Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is typically a four-year program when pursued full-time. However, the duration may vary depending on factors such as part-time enrollment, transfer credits, or accelerated course options.

What makes Biola’s psychology program unique compared to other schools?

Biola’s psychology program is unique in that it is a department situated within its own school (Rosemead School of Psychology) and the psychology faculty teach across both undergraduate and graduate programs. Biola and Rosemead has a longstanding history of being a leader in the area of integration of psychology and theology. The graduate programs at Rosemead have an excellent reputation of producing well-trained and respected clinical psychologists.

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Format

You'll study in person at Biola University's campus in Southern California.

Total Credits

Total program credits include major-specific courses and Biola's core curriculum.

Standard Completion Time

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.

Accreditation

Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.