Overview
At Trevecca University, we value your desire to understand the world around you, including those in it. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, students will explore the reasoning behind how and why people around us behave the way they do, providing a professional level of understanding of human behavior and Christian ethics in any workplace. From individuals and relationships to environment and development, this degree will equip students with the foundational knowledge for many different job opportunities, with a special emphasis on helping and serving industries.
A bachelor's in psychology will allow students to enter into nonclinical positions with professional knowledge of psychology theories and how to apply these theories to their fields of employment.
Employment Opportunities:
- Business
- Governmental agencies
- Helping professions
- Human services
- Marketing research
- Mental health
- Ministry
- Public relations
- More
Graduates of Trevecca’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program will enter the workforce with a broad understanding of Scripture and Christian worldview in the context of helping, serving and human behavior. Students will gain the soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, negotiating, and communication needed to function in any working environment, from business, nonprofit, ministry areas, and more. Graduates will also have the knowledge to apply theories of human behavior to real-life situations pertaining to individuals, as well as dynamics within relationships, families, communities and organizations. With this degree, students will gain a professional understanding in psychological research of human behavior and how to serve various populations struggling with complicated and difficult situations.
You've worked hard to get where you are, and we believe your life experiences should count for something. For this reason, we offer college credit for various certifications, assessments and professional experiences accrued during your time away from school. Upon enrollment, Trevecca’s team of advisors will work directly with you to complete a Prior Learning Assessment to ensure your life’s work isn’t overlooked.
Need some extra hours, or looking to tailor your degree? Trevecca offers courses that can be taken for general elective credit in the following areas:
- Health Care Administration
- Information Technology
- Christian Ministry
- Management and Leadership
Upon enrollment, your advisor will work on adding any elective courses you may need to your schedule.
Trevecca Online's Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program will open the door for students to understand the reasoning behind human behavior and gain the skills they need for a broad range of people-oriented positions and opportunities.
*Program prerequisite: PSC2300 Introduction to Psychology
Core Classes
Psychology and the Christian Faith
PSC 3005
This course explores the relationship of psychology and the Christian faith. Students delve into the dynamics of spiritual formation of individuals and Christian faith communities. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify ways in which religious beliefs and practices influence psychological functioning and the ways in which psychological functioning influences religious beliefs and practices.
- Describe the importance of epistemological issues to the relationship between faith and psychology.
- Analyze the various approaches of the relationship between faith and psychology.
- Apply theoretical approaches to integration to real life situations.
Course Hours: 3
Lifespan Development
PSC 3060
This course provides an overview of psychological development across a lifetime. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify the domains and periods of development throughout life (conception to death)
- Compare and contrast different theories of development and explain changes related to physical, cognitive, social, and emotional on these same areas of development.
- Describe variables underlying socio-economic status, racial, ethnic, and gender differences in lifespan development
- Apply developmental theories and research findings to current social and educational policies and events
Course Hours: 3
Psychology of Cognitive Processes
PSC 3010
This course presents concepts of mind and mental function, including learning, memory, and cognition. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of methodologies, research findings, and theories from the field of cognitive psychology.
- Understand research methodology in cognitive psychology.
- Demonstrate critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solve problems relating to mental processes.
- Evaluate evidence, evaluate scientific arguments, and understand the relation of brain, mind, and behavior.
Course Hours: 3
Cross Cultural Psychology
PSC 3020
This course will provide the opportunity to develop an appreciation for the relationship of individual, ethnic, and cultural contributions to individual and group growth and the necessity of well-being and their role in cross-cultural dynamics. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify basic concepts of culture, race and ethnicity.
- Describe the psychological implications of cultural differences and of contact among members of different cultures.
- Compare and contrast the important sociocultural forces, trends and problems faced by American society in today’s world.
- Demonstrate cultural competence and intercultural communication skills.
Course Hours: 3
Personality Theory
PSC 3030
This course introduces major theories of personality. Variations in these patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving provide unique insights into individuals. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Understand a comprehensive review of major theories and assessment instruments used in personality psychology.
- Demonstrate knowledge in critical thinking regarding assessment of subjective areas of human psychology.
- Evaluate different perspectives in personality development.
- Critique learning environments where diverse issues can be discussed thoroughly and where all views can be expressed freely.
Course Hours: 3
Psychology of Abnormal Behavior
PSC 3040
This course provides insight into abnormal behavior. Students will become familiar with these as defined by the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify the categories and descriptions of the leading mental disorders.
- Distinguish the different theoretical models explaining the causes of disorders, and the evidence linking biological, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social/cultural factors with each disorder.
- Analyze how mental disorders are assessed and the leading evidence-based methods of treatment.
- Develop critical reasoning skills to apply theoretical concepts and empirical evidence to the understanding of mental health issues, including hypothetical clinical cases.
Course Hours: 3
Principles of Social Psychology
PSC 3050
An examination of the psychological principles which function in the social behavior of the individual and group. The impact of social groups on individual behavior and the causes and motives of social behavior are emphasized.
Course Hours: 3
Current Perspectives in Psychology
PSC 4040
This course provides context for psychology through examination of current events and applications. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Understand connections with other disciplines, e.g., computer science, health sciences, leadership studies, organizational management, etc..
- Exhibit an ability to apply psychological theory to understanding and explaining human behavior in everyday life.
- Interpret current events in psychology through the lens of major theorists and theories.
Course Hours: 3
Research for the Behavioral Sciences
PSC 4050
This course provides an opportunity for students to learn psychological research techniques and methodology. Statistical reasoning is explored, including fundamental concepts and statistical methods used in psychological research. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify the basic principles and concepts dealing with sampling and measurement.
- Understanding of the major research strategies in the behavioral sciences.
- Assess various methods to effectively investigate research questions.
- Evaluate the appropriateness of conclusions and identify limitations of published research given the methodologies used.
Course Hours: 3
Psychology in Organizations
PSC 4010
This course provides insight into workplace issues that impact the individuals, teams, and organizations in various industries. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Develop an awareness of the history and major perspectives regarding the field of I/O Psychology.
- Describe models, theories, and technical information appropriate to I/O psychology.
- Apply theory and research in I/O Psychology to practical work settings.
- Explain the potential I/O Psychology has for society and organizations now and in the future.
Course Hours: 3
Psychology of Relationships
PSC 4020
This course investigates the dynamics of interpersonal relationships, including communication and conflict resolution. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify classic theories, current research, and common methods in the field of relationship science.
- Identify relationship science in pop culture and evaluate it according to accepted principles.
- Assess a body of empirical findings and apply conclusions to issues relevant to everyday life.
- Reflect on your own relationships and assess when it is (and is not) appropriate to apply findings from relationship science to your own relationships.
Course Hours: 3
Psychology Capstone
PSC-4960
This course provides students with the opportunity to synthesize their learning throughout the program by conducting research in psychological studies. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Demonstrate a basic of knowledge of the different domains of psychology as well as the content and methods specific to those areas.
- Use ethical decision making as a means of problem-solving in personal and professional situations
- Synthesize information from primary and secondary sources using print and electronic media.
- Understand psychological phenomena both systematically and empirically.
Course Hours: 3
Admissions
Getting Started
- Complete the online application (it's free!).
Need help applying? Read the step-by-step instructions here! - Fill out FAFSA to be considered for financial aid
- Request official transcripts from your previous institution
Admissions Requirements
- Completion of at least 40 credit hours from an accredited institution
- 2.0 cumulative GPA for all prior coursework
- Some proficiency with computer technology and reliable access to technology throughout the program
- Provide photocopy of government-issued identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport). This requirement ensures that Trevecca complies with the U.S. Department of Education expectations for student verification. (This is only required for students enrolled in an online program.)
If you feel you may not meet these requirements, please fill out the form on the right to be connected with an enrollment specialist.
Program Details
Graduation
To graduate with a bachelor's degree in psychology, students will need a minimum of 120 credit hours, satisfying the following requirements:
General Education (30 semester hours)
- 6 semester hours of communications (of which one course must be in English composition)
- 3 semester hours of humanities (at least one course must be from the following: literature, philosophy, art or music appreciation, art or music history, fine arts, history)
- 9 semester hours of social/behavioral science
- 6 semester hours of math/natural science
- 6 additional semester hours in any above general education area
Core Classes (36 semester hours)
View course descriptions for core classes.
General Electives (54 semester hours)
TOTAL: 120 semester hours
Students also need to maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to be eligible for graduation. Trevecca accepts transfer credit and prior learning towards the above requirements. To learn how your previous credit or prior learning will apply and see what your personal path to a bachelor's degree will look like, fill out the form and an enrollment counselor will contact you!
Financial Aid & Costs
Worried about the future? We’ve got you covered!
At Trevecca, we understand we’re in unprecedented times. We believe you should be free to follow your dreams without fear. If you’re unable to complete a course due to COVID-19, we’ll refund the course cost to you. Full details can be found here.
How much will it cost?
| Tuition | Credit Hours | Program Length | Total Cost |
| $395/Credit hour | 36 | As few as 18 months | $14,220 |
*$50 fee assessed per course. Books are not included.
How am I going to pay for it?
- Federal loans and grants are available to all eligible students who complete a FAFSA
- Employer tuition reimbursement opportunities
- Monthly payments through Trevecca make fulfilling tuition requirements more manageable
- Military benefits such as Yellow Ribbon and GI Bills are accepted by Trevecca University
How do I qualify?
- Fill out your FAFSA. Based on your income, you will know how much federal financial aid you are eligible to receive.
- Talk to your employer about tuition reimbursement opportunities
- For military benefits, contact the Academic Records Office at 1.615.248.1268
Why Trevecca?
Why choose Trevecca?
Since 1901, Trevecca Nazarene University has been dedicated to bringing Nashville students an unmatched education through exceptional teaching. Now the same education is available any time, anywhere through Trevecca Online, allowing you to receive the education you want with the flexibility you need.
Trevecca's cohort model of instruction provides you with a close-knit group of fellow students who will be on the same educational journey from the first day of classes until graduation. All classwork is completed through Blackboard, an interactive and innovative online learning system that allows you to communicate quickly with fellow students and your professors.
At Trevecca, we want to help you acquire the necessary skills to become the best of what you want to be. With Trevecca Online, you have the opportunity to receive an exceptional, personalized education completely online.
