Psychology (BA/BS)

Bachelor’s Degree Type: Arts or Science Requirement (12* or 16** Credits)

Select one degree type from either Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science:

General Education Requirement (28+ Credits)

See General Education  for course options.

• Core Course Requirements (12+ Credits)
• Breadth Area Requirements (16+ Credits)

Psychology Curriculum (45 Credits)

Free Electives and University Requirements

Students’ total free elective credit is determined by their General Education courses taken, degree type selected (if applicable), additional credits earned, and any additional math or other prerequisite courses needed. Some students and/or programs may not have any free electives.

For a bachelor’s degree, students must earn

• A minimum of 120 total credits;
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in both SUU coursework and combined transfer/SUU coursework;
• 40 upper-division credits , 20 of which are earned from SUU (students may need to select additional upper-division courses not included in their major requirements in order to reach this minimum 40); and
• 30 credits completed  through SUU.

Total Credits, BA/BS Degree: 120

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will broadly demonstrate proficiency and achievement in the following five (5) goals.¹

Goal 1: Content Knowledge and Applications

1.1 Describe key concepts, principles, and theories in psychological science

1.2 Develop a working knowledge of psychology’s major subfields

1.3 Portray significant aspects of the history of psychological science

1.4 Apply psychological content to solve practical problems

1.5 Provide examples of psychology’s integrative themes*

Goal 2: Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking

2.1 Exercise scientific reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena

2.2 Interpret, design, and evaluate psychological research

2.3 Incorporate sociocultural factors in scientific research practices

2.4 Use statistics to evaluate quantitative research findings

Goal 3: Values in Psychological Science

3.1 Employ ethical standards in research, practice, and academic contexts

3.2 Develop and practice interpersonal and intercultural responsiveness

3.3 Apply psychological principles to strengthen community and improve quality of life

Goal 4: Communication, Psychological Literacy, and Technology Skills

4.1 Interact effectively with others

4.2 Write and present effectively for different purposes

4.3 Provide evidence of psychological literacy

4.4 Exhibit appropriate technological skills to improve communication

Goal 5: Person and Professional Development

5.1 Exhibit effective self-regulation

5.2 Refine project management skills

5.3 Display effective judgment in professional interactions

5.4 Cultivate workforce collaboration skills

5.5 Demonstrate appropriate workforce technological skills

5.6 Develop direction for life after graduation

*Psychological Science’s Integrative Themes (APA, 2021)²

1. Psychological science relies on empirical evidence and adapts as new data develops.
2. Psychological science explains general principles that govern behavior while recognizing individual differences.
3. Psychological, biological, social, and cultural factors influence behavior and mental processes.
4. Psychological science values diversity, promotes equity, and fosters inclusion in pursuit of a more just society.
5. Our perceptions and biases filter our experiences of the world through an imperfect personal lens.
6. Applying psychological principles can change our lives, organizations, and communities in positive ways.
7. Ethnical principles guide psychological science research and practice.

¹ American Psychological Association. (2023). APA guidelines for the undergraduate psychology major: Version 3.0. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/about/policy/undergraduate-psychology-major.pdf

² American Psychological Association. (2021). APA Introductory Psychology Initiative (IPI) student learning outcomes for introductory psychology. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/about/policy/introductory-psychology-initiative-student-outcomes.pdf