Minor in Applied Psychology

Rosemead School of Psychology

Overview

Wherever you go, you’re almost certain to find yourself working with people. As a result, understanding how people think, behave and connect doesn’t just enhance your relationships — it can be pivotal for advancing your career.

The applied psychology minor – which is part of our online bachelor's degree program – is designed to be both practical and customizable. Its emphasis on application of concepts will make your studies come to life, while its inclusion of 15 credits of elective courses ensures you can pursue the learning that interests you. And, in every course you choose, you’ll encounter biblical integration that grows your faith and challenges you to better love your neighbor.

Whether you’re drawn to serving others or simply want to strengthen your critical thinking, communication and self-reflection, the Applied Psychology minor is sure to shape the way you approach your organization, community and ministry.

Courses

Below are the course requirements for this academic program. In addition to these program-specific requirements, please also see Biola's core curriculum for online bachelor's programs. For more program details, visit Biola's academic catalog.

Note: This list is intended to give you a quick glimpse into the program's academic offerings, and should not be used as a guide for course selection or academic advising.

Core Curriculum

APSY 208	Statistics for Research
Students will learn the basic descriptive and inferential statistical concepts for social-psychological research with an emphasis on conceptual understanding and interpretation. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 265	Psychology and Christian Thought
An introduction to the nature and process of the application of Christian thought to the study and practice of psychology. Notes: Approved for Core Curriculum Bible credit. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 320	Experimental Psychology
Students will be introduced to basic research design and evaluation methods. An analysis of the philosophy and methodology of the experimental method is considered. Students will complete an experimental research paper using APA guidelines and formatting. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 325	Developmental Psychology: Lifespan
A study of the theory and research regarding human development from conception through death. Consideration will be given to the biological, psychological, cultural, and social influences on human development. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 344	Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal psychology is an exploration of the nature, causes and treatments of abnormal behavior, including the full range of mental disorders identified within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5). This course is structured and designed to facilitate maximum exposure to the 'real world' of psychopathology through diverse learning assignments and exploration of current events within the field of psychology. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 355	Psychology of Health and Well-Being
Students will examine the contributions of psychological research to the understanding, prevention, and treatment of a variety of health concerns. This course will also explore the nature of stress arising from work, family, mobility, and cultural lifestyles. The psychology of health and well-being will be integrated with Christian theology specifically focusing on a biblical view of human flourishing, the body, illness and disease, suffering, and sacrificial service. Note(s): Approved for Core Curriculum Bible credit. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 365	Cognitive Psychology
This course is designed to introduce students to the research and theories of higher mental processes. Among the cognitive processes to be studied are problem solving, memory, language, attention, reasoning, and thinking. The physiological basis of cognitive processes will be discussed. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 406	Social and Cultural Psychology
Analysis of social behavior, including social cognition, attitude formation, change, and group processes. Emphasis is placed on the application of social psychology principles to a range of issues, including sociocultural diversity, prejudice, conflict resolution, and gender roles. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 410	Psychology in the Workplace
Focuses on a number of important psychological factors for effective performance in the workplace. Includes communication styles, developing conflict resolution skills, employee selection process, goal setting, time management, diversity and cultural sensitivity, stress management, and work conditions. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 414	Theories of Personality
An overview of personality theories including the primary representatives from the major schools: analytic-psychodynamic, humanistic-existential, and cognitive-behavioral. Integrative content will be emphasized throughout the course. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 417	Counseling Techniques
An overview of basic clinical interviewing and counseling techniques from both didactic and experimental perspectives. Topics include methods and theories in counseling, roles in the counseling relationship, legal considerations, dealing with resistance, cultural awareness and ethical issues related to counseling. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 425	Psychology of Marriage and Family Life
An exploration of contemporary marriage and family life, including cultural and sociological factors impacting today's family. Divorce and remarriage, single parenting, dual career families, and the role of religious faith in the home will be addressed. Students will also examine and critically reflect upon the biblical and theological understanding of marriage and family to develop an integrative understanding of marriage and family life. Notes: Approved for Core Curriculum Bible credit. Grade Mode: A.
APSY 465	Positive Psychology
An introduction to the field of positive psychology, which focuses on the systematic study of optimal human functioning; aiming to discover factors that contribute to individual and community flourishing. Theological integration will also be covered as it shares a concern with both Christian theology and ancient eudoemonistic ethics regarding the cultivation of human virtues. Students will use the integrated thinking cultivated in the class while researching and presenting their findings. Notes: Approved for Core Curriculum Bible credit. Grade Mode: A.
PSYC 200	Introduction to Psychology
A survey of psychology as an empirical/behavioral science with a consideration of underlying philosophical bases in light of a Christian worldview. Topics to be surveyed include development, cognition, learning, motivation, physiology, socialization, personality and psychopathology. Notes: Approved for Core Curriculum Behavioral Science credit. Grade Mode: A.
PSYC 206	Psychology and Christian Thought
An introduction to the nature and process of the application of Christian thought to the study and practice of psychology. Grade Mode: A.

Total Program Credits

Every program at Biola University features rigorous academics, biblically integrated curriculum and vocational preparation.

WSCUC

Accreditation

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

Minor in Applied Psychology

Overview

Courses

Core Curriculum

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