Professionals may go back to school for a psychology degree for many reasons, but one of the most common is that they want a career that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities. A BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science offers a strong foundation in human behavior and industry-standard research methods, while also developing critical thinking and empathetic communication skills.
Through hands-on learning and research-driven coursework, psychological and behavioral science students learn how to apply psychological concepts in real-world settings. This approach encourages students to examine how social systems and behavioral patterns shape well-being over time, a cohesive skill set that can lead to in-demand roles within health care administration, human resources, marketing analysis and behavioral research.
What Does a Typical BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science Program Look Like?
A bachelor’s in psychological and behavioral science, often referred to broadly as a psychology degree, helps students gain a clear understanding of human behavior so that they can support individuals as they work through everyday challenges. Psychology programs combine research-based theory with evidence-based problem-solving, preparing students for psychology-related fields.
Graduates usually build careers in psychology, health care or social services, but their expertise in human behavior may also be beneficial in business and professional services. Many graduates enter the workforce immediately, while those interested in therapy or clinical practice may use their BA to prepare for a graduate degree in counseling or psychology.
California Lutheran University’s BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science is part of the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program. Flexibly designed for working adults and lifelong learners who already have some college credits, this program empowers professionals to complete their bachelor’s and advance their careers. Learn more about how a bachelor’s degree can benefit you.
What Courses Do You Take in a BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science Program?
The curriculum of a psychology and behavioral science program covers a wide range of topics within the realm of human thought and behavior. Students take courses that cover foundational knowledge and skills, such as:
- Psychology research
- Research writing
- Culture and psychology
- Personality and individual differences
- Developmental psychology
- Social psychology
- Counseling and therapy techniques
- Psychological principles in the workplace (industrial and organizational psychology)
Typically, the goal of the coursework is to provide students with an understanding of how behavior manifests in different contexts. Then, through experiential learning and applied projects, aspiring psychology professionals will practice the skills needed to evaluate and interpret information.
What Skills Are Developed in This Program?
Psychology and behavioral science students gain versatile skillsets that can be applied to a variety of professional settings:
- Evidence-based problem-solving
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Empathy, compassion and ethics
- Communication
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Research
- Professional and academic writing
- Psychology and behavioral science expertise
What You Can Do With a Bachelor’s in Psychological and Behavioral Science
Most people think of a psychology and/or behavioral science degree as being only relevant to mental health careers, but this is a misconception that isn’t representative of the opportunities available.
At its core, a BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science teaches you to gently uncover how people think, what they feel, what they believe and how they act as a result. That type of knowledge is useful for any individual seeking a career that requires a deep understanding of behavior and its practical applications.
Graduates may work in any of these industries or job functions without requiring graduate school or licensure:
- Health care
- Community outreach
- Corporate business, including sales, HR, marketing and creative positions
- Management
- Journalism
- Government
- Research
Source: Lightcast and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Caseworker
Median Annual Salary: $50,000 (Lightcast)
Caseworkers typically work in health care, counseling, nonprofits, government and social services settings, connecting with individuals and families to help them better meet their needs and achieve their goals. They typically meet with their clients regularly, develop goal-oriented plans and connect their clients to the resources they need.
For example, a family may be struggling with food insecurity due to job loss. Their caseworker might help them apply for government assistance, direct them to food banks, support their job search and help them find job training.
Community Health Worker
Median Annual Salary: $51,030 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Community health workers are very wellness focused, rather than being medically focused like a physician. These professionals care for a patient or client’s whole self with a particular emphasis on providing support that improves health outcomes.
Some of their tasks may include:
- Connecting clients to health care or social services resources
- Providing coaching on nutrition, mental health, substance abuse or chronic illness management
- Educating patients on the complex concepts communicated to them by health care professionals
- Advocate for clients or patients in various settings
Many community health workers are employed in clinics or programs that provide aid for underserved populations.
Social and Human Service Assistant
Median Annual Salary: $45,120 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Social and human service assistants often work for programs or organizations that deliver direct services to people in need. Typically they assist social workers, caseworkers or counselors with their duties by organizing and maintaining records, assisting with treatment plans, helping clients with their daily activities and guiding clients to the resources they need.
Succeeding in this role takes strong communication skills as well as the ability to interact effectively with diverse populations.
Career Counselor
Median Annual Salary: $65,140 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Career counselors, also called employment counselors, help individuals explore career opportunities and develop skills for the workforce. Many of these professionals work in community settings like schools or workforce development agencies within local communities.
Much of the day-to-day tasks within this role revolve around helping clients understand themselves better so they can achieve their goals. Career counselors might do any of the following on a day-to-day basis:
- Give aptitude tests to clients
- Evaluate the background, education and experience of clients
- Provide advice about what education pathways to pursue, including for adult learners considering going back to school
- Give clients opportunities to develop new skills
- Coach clients on skills like networking, interviewing, writing cover letters and crafting strong resumes
Public Relations Specialist
Median Annual Salary: $69,780 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Public relations specialists manage communication between organizations and the public at large, creating strategies that shape brand reputation. PR specialists often work for multiple clients of various sizes, from individuals like celebrities to large organizations that may find themselves in the news.
Professionals in this field help organizations convey their values while also engaging audiences effectively. For example, they may craft specific messaging that puts their organization in a positive light, but they also need to ensure that media outlets are consistently interested in publishing their memos or press releases.
Market Research Analyst
Median Annual Salary: $76,950 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Market research analysts examine consumer behavior and trends to help organizations make informed decisions, usually related to products or services they’re hoping to launch. By collecting data and using the insights they uncover, market research analysts are able to guide more effective marketing strategies.
Analysts often work in business development and marketing fields. Success in this role depends on well-rounded analytical skills and knowing how to apply behavioral understanding to current challenges.
How Does a BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science Prepare You for Further Education in the Field?
A bachelor’s in psychological and behavioral science provides graduates with a strong foundation for advanced study in fields like counseling, social work, psychology and education. Students will learn how to conduct research and think critically in order to understand human behavior in complex contexts.
The BA program also highlights ethical considerations and professional standards, which gives students an advantage when applying to highly competitive graduate programs.
What Opportunities Exist for Further Education in Psychological and Behavioral Science?
With a bachelor’s degree in this field, graduates can pursue master’s or doctoral programs in areas like:
- Clinical psychology
- Behavior analysis
- Mental health counseling
- Educational psychology
- Special education and behavioral support
- Rehabilitation counseling
What Career Paths Require Further Education?
A graduate degree in psychology or a related field can prepare professionals for more career opportunities, especially those in counseling and therapy. Some careers and specialized pathways that usually require graduate education include:
- Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
- Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
- Clinical psychologist
- School counselor
- Educational psychologist
- Art therapist
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Applied behavior analyst
- Social worker
The ability to offer therapy and guidance in a clinical setting is a big responsibility. Graduate education ensures practitioners have the knowledge and skills to provide both safely and effectively.
Choosing Your Next Step
A BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science opens doors to versatile opportunities in many industries, not just a single career path. By the time they graduate, students will have the resources they need to approach challenges thoughtfully, as well as the flexibility to pursue a variety of careers.
Whether stepping into a professional role or continuing education, graduates will be prepared to make meaningful contributions to the communities and organizations they serve.
About the BA in Psychological and Behavioral Science at Cal Lutheran’s School for Professional and Continuing Studies
Continue your education and transform your career with our Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals, designed for working adults and lifelong learners with some college experience. This affordable degree completion program with flexible online options offers a focused major in psychological and behavioral science that teaches students to transform complex financial data into useful business insights. Students will gain crucial knowledge of accounting principles, business concepts, analytical abilities and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
Cal Lutheran’s School for Professional and Continuing Studies serves individuals who desire to grow educationally, personally and professionally. Our work is grounded in the assessment of students’ needs and expectations. We meet these individuals where they are in order to provide tailored programs and resources that will help them clarify and deepen their purpose so that they can transform their communities — and the world.
Download a program brochure or start your application for the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program.
