Psychology (BA)

In the Psychology program at AU, expert faculty will lead you in an exploration of human behavior, the learning process, personality development, motivation, and the cultural environment. The major offers the flexibility to dig deeper into what interests you most and to tailor your course selections to your passions. You will also have the opportunity to apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world settings, bringing your academic interests to life.

Our program begins with a strong academic core where you will hone your analytical thinking, research, and writing skills. Student-initiated, data-driven projects, and professional internships will prepare you for graduate study or a career in fields such as counseling, nonprofit management or communication, human resources, human services, criminal justice, social work, and business.

All AU students design and implement their own research study in one of their courses, and also have the unique opportunity to continue to explore important questions by collaborating on faculty research projects. Current faculty projects include interpersonal violence, children’s memory, and language development, and diversity issues in post-graduate education. Many students present their research at local, regional, and national Psychology conferences.

You can expand your career opportunities with a double major in areas such as Business Administration or Criminal Justice. Even with a second major, you’ll still be able to graduate in four years. The Psychology program also prepares you to pursue the advanced degrees necessary to work as a psychologist in a clinical, research, or school setting. Qualified students may benefit from AU’s agreement with Midwestern University. Please visit our academic affiliations page to learn more.

The Psychology degree is offered on the AU main campus in Aurora, Illinois, and as a BA in Psychology online program for transfer students through AU Online.