Admission Requirements for a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The requirements and prerequisites for an online BA in psychology can differ depending on the university and program. But generally, most programs ask for:
- High school transcripts showing you’ve completed necessary academic courses, like a certain number of credits in math, science, or English
- A résumé or CV
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- A minimum GPA
Make sure to check the exact requirements for any BA in psychology program you’re interested in. You can reach out to universities directly or take some time to look through their admissions details.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology Curriculum
The courses you’ll take for a psychology degree depend on the school and program. Usually, though, a BA in psychology covers foundational subjects in social and behavioral sciences, math and statistics, and research methods. After the first year or so, the program shifts toward more specialized topics with elective courses based on your interests. Some common classes include:
- Introduction to Psychological Sciences
- Introduction to Statistics
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Organizational Communication and Behavior
- Psychopathology and Mental Health
What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?
Work Opportunities
After graduating, you can jump straight into the workforce with a BA in psychology. The job options aren’t just limited to social and human services—they also include fields like human resources, marketing, and law. Depending on your interests and experience, you could land roles such as:
- Behavioral Disorder Counselor
- Caseworker
- Counselor
- Child Development Specialist
- Human Resource Advisor
- Substance Abuse Counselor
Keep in mind that some jobs might require additional licensure before you can start.
Graduate Studies
With a BA in psychology, you’ll also be ready to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree. If you’re interested in clinical psychology or research, you’ll likely need an advanced degree in psychology. Or, if you want to go into counseling, social work, applied behavior analysis, or other licensed fields, you could opt for a graduate degree in mental health.
Make sure to explore online bachelor’s programs that align with your career goals.
BA in Psychology Salary
A psychology bachelor’s degree opens doors to many careers, and salaries vary based on factors like:
- Your chosen field
- Location
- The population you serve
- Your employer
- Experience level
- Whether you have a graduate degree
- The type of role you’re in
For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that in 2021, the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $48,520. Many of these roles are open to graduates with a bachelor’s in psychology.
If you move into advanced roles, your earning potential goes up. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for psychologists in 2021 was $81,040—but you’ll need a master’s degree and licensure to practice as a psychologist.
Psychologists can work independently or as part of a healthcare team in settings like:
- Government: $103,850
- Hospitals (state, local, or private): $99,330
- Ambulatory healthcare services: $83,770
- Elementary and secondary schools: $78,830
The top 10% of psychology professionals earned over $133,980 in 2021.
BA in Psychology vs. BS in Psychology: What’s the Difference?
When deciding between a BA and a BS in psychology, think about your career goals. Both degrees are equally rigorous and can lead to advanced psychology programs.
- A BA in psychology is broader, with more elective options and a focus on humanities and social sciences. Many graduates start working right away in fields like law, political science, or counseling. Others go for advanced degrees in psychology, social work, or counseling.
- A BS in psychology is more research and science-focused, with extra math and science courses. This degree prepares you for research-heavy roles or advanced studies in psychology-related fields.