adult studies online

Psychology

The Bachelor of Arts in psychology is a degree-completion program that provides a professional level of psychological understanding and Christian ethics that can be applied in a variety of different environments. Graduates learn to apply theories of human behavior to real-life situations pertaining to individuals and dynamics within relationships, families, communities and organizations.

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Upcoming Start Dates:

Online:
Feb. 18, 2025
May 20, 2025

Trevecca’s Bachelor of Arts in psychology is an online, degree-completion program specifically designed for working adults. This program equips you with a foundational understanding of psychology as you learn to apply theories of human behavior in a variety of individual situations as well as within the dynamics of relationships, families, communities and organizations.

Program Benefits

  • Complete your degree fully online with all materials delivered to you.
  • Take advantage of flexible, asynchronous classes that fit your busy schedule.
  • Move through your program with a supportive cohort of students working toward similar goals.
  • Learn from faculty who possess high degrees in their fields, who have relevant and valuable real-world experience and who make an effort to know you personally. 

What to Expect

With Trevecca’s psychology degree-completion program, you’ll be able to complete your bachelor’s degree while gaining a solid understanding of the reasoning behind human behavior as well as the skills you need to serve in a broad range of people-oriented careers. Plus, this degree is specifically designed for working adults. All courses are delivered asynchronously online, so you can maintain your other important responsibilities while completing your degree.

The program will give you a strong foundation in the theories of human behavior as you study everything from individual personalities to the dynamics of relationships, families, communities and organizations. You’ll take fundamental courses like Personality Theory, Principles of Social Psychology, Cross Cultural Psychology, Psychology of Abnormal Behavior, Psychology of Relationships and more. This degree also equips you with practical research capabilities and skills like emotional intelligence, negotiation and communication that will serve you well in almost any field. 

Plus, you’ll learn from engaging faculty members who are actively practicing and researching in the clinical field. They are readily accessible to you and work to build mentoring relationships with you as you pursue your goals.

Why Choose Trevecca?

Founded in 1901 and a leader in online education for more than two decades, Trevecca helps students discover and pursue an individual calling by providing innovative instruction; cultivating a supportive, Christ-centered community; and establishing relationships that open doors.

2024 #2 Online College in Tennessee, intelligent.comRecognized nationally and locally for academic quality, Trevecca has earned a reputation for providing the world with servant leaders, problem solvers and difference makers. Trevecca’s holistic approach to education encompasses intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual growth.

As a Christian university, we offer programs that explore the ways faith intersects with your field of study. This means you can gain your psychology degree in a supportive, Christian community with small classroom sizes and engaged faculty members who care about you, your faith and your goals.

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Course Descriptions

Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.

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Financial Aid & Costs

Financial Aid & Costs

Nearly every student at Trevecca receives some form of assistance in paying for college. Learn all about the affordability of a TNU education and options for receiving aid.

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Here’s a look at the approximate tuition rates you could expect for this program at Trevecca, including the cost per credit hour and the total tuition expense for the full degree program. Please note that rates and fees are subject to change.

Here’s a look at the approximate tuition rates you could expect for this program at Trevecca, including the cost per credit hour and the total tuition expense for the full degree program. Please note that rates and fees are subject to change.

Cost/Credit Hour

$419

Hours

36

Tuition Cost*

$15,084

*$150 Student Resource Fee assessed per course. $150 estimated book cost per course.
*A total of 120 credit hours are required to complete this program.

Getting Started

  1. Complete the online application (it's free!).
    Need help applying? Read the step-by-step instructions here!
  2. Fill out FAFSA to be considered for financial aid.
  3. Request official transcripts from your previous institution.

Requirements

  1. Completion of at least 40 credit hours from an accredited institution
  2. 2.0 cumulative GPA for all prior coursework
  3. Some proficiency with computer technology and reliable access to technology throughout the program.
  4. Provide photocopy of government-issued identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport). This requirement ensures that Trevecca complies with the U.S. Department of Education expectations for student verification. (This is only required for students enrolled in an online program.)

For students who have not completed the necessary 40 credit hours, there are still options for starting a degree. The online associate’s degree programs are open to students, regardless of credit hours. View our associate degrees to learn more.

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Trevecca offers optional minors to non-traditional undergraduate students.  Minors provide an excellent path to gain expertise in a focus area while you secure enough credit hours to complete your degree!

  • Minor in Business
  • Minor in Healthcare Administration
  • Minor in Christian Ministry Online
  • Minor in Psychology
  • Minor in Leadership
  • Minor in Criminal Justice
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To graduate with a bachelor's degree in psychology, students will need a minimum of 120 credit hours, satisfying the following requirements:

General Education (30 semester hours)

  • 6 semester hours of communications (of which one course must be in English composition)
  • 3 semester hours of humanities (at least one course must be from the following: literature, philosophy, art or music appreciation, art or music history, fine arts, history)
  • 9 semester hours of social/behavioral science 
  • 6 semester hours of math/natural science
  • 6 additional semester hours in any above general education area

Core Classes (36 semester hours)

General Electives (54 semester hours)

TOTAL: 120 semester hours

 Students also need to maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to be eligible for graduation. Trevecca accepts transfer credit and prior learning towards the above requirements. To learn how your previous credit or prior learning will apply and see what your personal path to a bachelor's degree will look like, fill out the form and an enrollment counselor will contact you!

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Technology Requirements

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Career Opportunities

A bachelor's in psychology will help qualify graduates for nonclinical positions. Professional knowledge of psychology theories can prepare them for a career in these or other fields.

  • Business
  • Governmental agencies
  • Helping professions
  • Human services
  • Marketing research
  • Mental health
  • Ministry
  • Public relations

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Course Descriptions

Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.



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Cohort Schedule

View a sample schedule of the courses you will be taking when you enroll.

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Integration of Psychology and the Christian Faith
PSC 3005

This course explores the relationship of psychology and the Christian faith. Students delve into the dynamics of spiritual formation of individuals and Christian faith communities. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Identify ways in which religious beliefs and practices influence psychological functioning and the ways in which psychological functioning influences religious beliefs and practices.
  • Describe the importance of epistemological issues to the relationship between faith and psychology.
  • Analyze the various approaches of the relationship between faith and psychology.
  • Apply theoretical approaches to integration to real life situations.
Lifespan Development
PSC 3010

This course provides an overview of psychological development across a lifetime. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Identify the domains and periods of development throughout life (conception to death)
  • Compare and contrast different theories of development and explain changes related to physical, cognitive, social, and emotional on these same areas of development.
  • Describe variables underlying socio-economic status, racial, ethnic, and gender differences in lifespan development
  • Apply developmental theories and research findings to current social and educational policies and events
Psychology of Cognitive Processes
PSC 3020

This course presents concepts of mind and mental function, including learning, memory, and cognition. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of methodologies, research findings, and theories from the field of cognitive psychology.
  • Understand research methodology in cognitive psychology.
  • Demonstrate critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solve problems relating to mental processes.
  • Evaluate evidence, evaluate scientific arguments, and understand the relation of brain, mind, and behavior.
Cross Cultural Psychology
PSC 3060

This course will provide the opportunity to develop an appreciation for the relationship of individual, ethnic, and cultural contributions to individual and group growth and the necessity of well-being and their role in cross-cultural dynamics. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Identify basic concepts of culture, race and ethnicity. 
  • Describe the psychological implications of cultural differences and of contact among members of different cultures.
  • Compare and contrast the important sociocultural forces, trends and problems faced by American society in today’s world.
  • Demonstrate cultural competence and intercultural communication skills.
Personality Theory
PSC 3030

This course introduces major theories of personality. Variations in these patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving provide unique insights into individuals. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Understand a comprehensive review of major theories and assessment instruments used in personality psychology.
  • Demonstrate knowledge in critical thinking regarding an assessment of subjective areas of human psychology.
  • Evaluate different perspectives in personality development
  • Critique learning environments where diverse issues can be discussed thoroughly and where all views can be expressed freely.
Psychology of Abnormal Behavior
PSC 3040

This course provides insight into abnormal behavior. Students will become familiar with these as defined by the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Identify the categories and descriptions of the leading mental disorders.
  • Distinguish the different theoretical models explaining the causes of disorders, and the evidence linking biological, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social/cultural factors with each disorder.
  • Analyze how mental disorders are assessed and the leading evidence-based methods of treatment.
  • Develop critical reasoning skills to apply theoretical concepts and empirical evidence to the understanding of mental health issues, including hypothetical clinical cases.
Principles of Social Psychology
PSC 3050

This course provides perspective on how social groups influence individual thought, feeling, and behavior. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of basic scientific method underlying social psychological research.
  • Illustrate a general knowledge of major theories and current findings within current research
  • Appreciate the methodological strategies common to social psychology
  • Compare how basic theory and experimental findings apply to everyday situations.
Current Perspectives in Psychology
PSC 4040

This course provides context for psychology through examination of current events and applications. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Understand connections with other disciplines, e.g., computer science, health sciences, leadership studies, organizational management, etc..
  • Exhibit an ability to apply psychological theory to understanding and explaining human behavior in everyday life.
  • Interpret current events in psychology through the lens of major theorists and theories.
Research Methods
PSC 4050

This course provides an opportunity for students to learn psychological research techniques and methodology. Statistical reasoning is explored, including fundamental concepts and statistical methods used in psychological research. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Identify the basic principles and concepts dealing with sampling and measurement.
  • Understanding of the major research strategies in the behavioral sciences.
  • Assess various methods to effectively investigate research questions.
  • Evaluate the appropriateness of conclusions and identify limitations of published research given the methodologies used.
Organizational Psychology
PSC 4010

This course provides insight into workplace issues that impact the individuals, teams, and organizations in various industries. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Develop an awareness of the history and major perspectives regarding the field of I/O Psychology.
  • Describe models, theories, and technical information appropriate to I/O psychology.
  • Apply theory and research in I/O Psychology to practical work settings.
  • Explain the potential I/O Psychology has for society and organizations now and in the future.
Relationship Development
PSC 4020

This course investigates the dynamics of interpersonal relationships, including communication and conflict resolution. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Identify classic theories, current research, and common methods in the field of relationship science.
  • Identify relationship science in pop culture and evaluate it according to accepted principles.
  • Assess a body of empirical findings and apply conclusions to issues relevant to everyday life.
  • Reflect on your own relationships and assess when it is (and is not) appropriate to apply findings from relationship science to your own relationships.
Psychology Capstone
PSC 4960

This course provides students with the opportunity to synthesize their learning throughout the program by conducting research in psychological studies. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate a basic of knowledge of the different domains of psychology as well as the content and methods specific to those areas.
  • Use ethical decision making as a means of problem-solving in personal and professional situations
  • Synthesize information from primary and secondary sources using print and electronic media.
  • Understand psychological phenomena both systematically and empirically.

*For a complete list of courses, tracks and other relevant information, view the program's course catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t currently have 40 credit hours—what are my options?
If you currently do not have any transferable credit hours, we offer an associate program that will help you earn your general education credits, as well as some introductory courses in a discipline. If you already have some credits (but fewer than 40), our enrollment counselors can help with determining which classes you need, both in general education or elective classes. All of these courses can be completed online. Connect with an enrollment counselor with the form on the right to get started.
Can I really graduate with my bachelor’s degree in 18 months?

Our core programs are approximately 18 months long. To graduate, you’ll need to meet all graduation requirements for a bachelor’s degree, including minimum general education requirements and elective requirements. An enrollment counselor will be able to help you determine exactly what you need to graduate and options to complete all of your requirements. Fill out the form on the right to be connected with an enrollment counselor!

Do you use textbooks or e-books?

We use physical textbooks for our courses.

Does the program include an internship?

No, there is not an internship for this program.

What are the technology requirements for the program?

In today’s world, capable managers and leaders are more resourceful and resilient than their peers. In several of Trevecca’s programs, we want to build students’ ability to be resourceful and resilient in addressing their technology needs. Read our full list of technology requirements →

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