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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 school or a variety of career opportunities, such as market research analyst, school psychologist or recreational therapist.

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, research methods and research-driven work should consider the online B.S. in Applied 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 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 psychology program allows you to gain valuable off- or on-campus experience in an approved psychological setting or agency 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 eight available areas of specialization, you will be taught how to integrate and apply theology to counseling knowledge and skills. 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 mental health related careers and ministries. As a well-equipped professional, you can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ in professions such as:

  • Criminal or forensic psychologist
  • Engineering psychologist
  • Industrial-organizational psychologist
  • Sports psychologist
  • Career or vocational counselor
  • Neuropsychologist
  • Recreational Therapist
  • Market Research Analyst
  • School psychologist
  • Clinical psychologist
  • Special education teacher

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; Talbot School of Theology; Dallas Theological Seminary; Rosemead School of Psychology; Azusa Pacific University; Baylor University; Fuller School of Psychology; Pepperdine University; University of Maryland; and the University of New Mexico.

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.


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
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

Admissions

Admissions Process

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

Program-Specific Admissions Requirements

  1. Completed, with a minimum "C" (2.0) grade, each of the following courses:
    • Psychology and Christian Thought (206)
    • Statistics with Computer Application (209 and 211)
    • Biblical Studies, Foundations of Christian Thought (165)
    • English (112)
  2. Earned an overall cumulative GPA of 2.5.
  3. Completed a minimum of 30 hours of general education and biblical studies.
  4. Filed an application as a psychology major that includes an autobiographical essay. The application can be filed any time following the completion of the student's third semester of college work.

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

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.

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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.