Psychology Degrees: Online and Campus Programs
What Is a Psychology Degree?
A psychology degree is an academic program that focuses on the scientific study of human behavior, mental processes and social interactions. Students investigate how people think, feel and act while examining the biological, cognitive and environmental factors that influence behavior. Psychology programs typically introduce topics such as developmental psychology, cognitive processes, research methods and behavioral analysis.
Through structured coursework and research-based study, students can develop foundational knowledge of psychological theory and behavioral science that may be applied in fields such as healthcare, human services, business and education.
Median annual wage for psychologists with a doctoral degree as of May 2024(See disclaimer 1)
New online and evening undergraduate psychology or behavioral health science students may be eligible for up to 32% off tuition scholarship.†
What Do Psychology Majors Study?
Psychology majors explore the scientific principles that explain human behavior, mental processes and emotional development. Coursework typically examines how biological, cognitive and social factors influence how people think, learn and interact with one another.
Key topics psychology majors study include:
Through this coursework, psychology majors may develop skills in critical thinking, behavioral observation and research analysis that can be applied to fields such as behavioral health, human services, education and business.
Types of Psychology Degrees
Psychology Bachelor’s Degrees
A bachelor’s degree in psychology introduces students to the evidence-based frameworks that explain behavior, cognition and social interaction. These undergraduate programs cover various topics, including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, research methods and behavioral analysis. Students may develop foundational knowledge in psychology while gaining insight into evaluating human behavior through observation, research and critical thinking.
Bachelor’s psychology programs can also offer opportunities to explore specialized areas within the field, depending on the program’s structure. At GCU, students can pursue programs that focus on core psychology principles or examine behavior in applied settings such as healthcare, social services or criminal justice.
Examples of bachelor’s-level psychology programs include:
Students who complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology may pursue entry-level roles in behavioral health, human services, case management or related fields or continue their education through graduate psychology programs.
Skills You Can Develop in a Psychology Degree Program
As a psychology major, you will be guided to develop a versatile skill set that aims to prepare you to think critically, act ethically and communicate effectively in professional settings. Our programs emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application, which can help you become an innovative problem-solver and informed decision-maker.
Examine core competencies through coursework focused on human behavior:
Ethics in Psychology
Ethical considerations in research, forensic psychology and therapeutic practice
Promotion of Healthy Strategies
Methods for encouraging positive behaviors and reducing harmful habits
Life Stage Transitions
The influence of developmental milestones and transitions on human behavior and growth
Research Methods
Approaches and statistical tools for collecting, analyzing and interpreting data
Holistic Development
Physical, social, cognitive and moral growth, including mental health
Critical Thinking
Objectively evaluating information to identify patterns and biases
Behavioral Analysis
The interpretation of actions, motivations and environmental influences to understand individual responses
Communication and Active Listening
Clearly expressing ideas while listening with intention and empathy
Psychology Degree Specializations
Psychology is a diverse field that examines human behavior across many different environments and populations. Within psychology degree programs, students may have opportunities to explore specialized areas that apply psychological principles to fields such as healthcare, workplace organizations, technology design and the criminal justice system. These specializations allow students to examine specific behavioral patterns, research topics and practical applications of psychology.
By focusing on a specialization, students can deepen their understanding of how psychology influences different aspects of society. Specialized areas of study may explore topics such as workplace behavior, mental wellness, aging, human interaction with technology or the psychological factors that influence criminal behavior. These areas of focus help illustrate how psychological research and theory can be applied across a wide range of professional and community settings.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology explores the relationship between psychology and the criminal justice system. This specialization examines how psychological principles can help analyze criminal behavior, understand motivations and support investigative and legal processes. Coursework may explore topics such as criminal behavior, psychological assessment and the role of psychology in law enforcement, corrections and the court system.
Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Industrial and organizational psychology focuses on the application of psychological principles within workplace and organizational environments. This specialization examines topics such as employee motivation, leadership development, workplace culture and organizational behavior. Students may explore how psychological research can help improve employee performance, team dynamics and overall organizational effectiveness.
Health Psychology
A health psychologist studies the connection between psychological factors, behavior and physical health. This specialization explores how mental and emotional processes can influence wellness, lifestyle choices and healthcare outcomes. Coursework may examine topics such as stress management, health behavior changes and the psychological aspects of chronic illness and healthcare systems.
Human Factors Psychology
Human factors psychology examines how people interact with technology, systems and environments. This area of study focuses on improving usability, safety and efficiency by applying psychological principles to product design, workplace systems and digital interfaces. Students may explore topics related to ergonomics, user experience and cognitive processes involved in decision-making and problem-solving.
Geropsychology
Geropsychology focuses on the psychological aspects of aging and mental health in older adults. This specialization examines how aging can affect cognition, emotional well-being and social relationships. Students may explore topics such as age-related cognitive changes, mental health support for older populations and psychological factors that influence quality of life throughout the aging process.
Hear What Our Students Have To Say
Meet one of the inspiring psychology students at Grand Canyon University. In this video, you’ll hear from a senior who serves as the president of the GCU Psychology Club. She shares her journey in psychology and explains how her experiences at GCU are helping her to prepare for graduate school. Discover what she says makes the GCU community an ideal place for both academic and personal growth.
Foundational Psychology Courses
Foundational courses introduce students to the basic concepts and theories that shape the field of psychology. These classes can help students understand how psychologists study behavior and how different psychological perspectives explain human thoughts and actions.
Common foundational courses may include:
Advanced Psychology Topics
As students progress through a psychology degree program, they may explore more advanced subjects that examine specific psychological processes and applications. These courses often build on foundational knowledge while introducing more complex theories and analytical approaches.
Examples of advanced psychology topics may include:
Research and Capstone Experiences
Many psychology programs include research projects or capstone experiences that allow students to apply what they have learned throughout their coursework. These experiences may involve designing research studies, analyzing psychological data or completing a final project that explores a specific topic in psychology.
Through research and applied learning opportunities, students may gain experience evaluating psychological theories, interpreting research findings and communicating insights related to human behavior. These projects can help reinforce critical thinking, analytical reasoning and scientific inquiry within the field of psychology.
Explore Psychology Degrees
64 Matching Degrees
What Can You Do With a Psychology Degree?
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in psychology can pursue industries such as healthcare, education, human services, business and HR or criminal justice. Explore various careers in psychology to learn more about potential paths.
A psychology degree can also provide a solid foundation for those looking to advance their studies, which can prepare them for graduate programs in psychology, counseling master’s, social work, master’s in education and related disciplines. Others may leverage their psychology background to enter professional schools in law, medicine or criminal justice.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in psychology may pursue entry-level roles that involve supporting individuals, communities or organizations through behavioral insight and communication skills. These positions often focus on assisting professionals in healthcare, human services, education or business environments.
Examples of entry-level roles include:
- Behavioral health technician
- Case manager
- Human resources specialist
- Social services assistant
These roles can allow psychology graduates to apply their understanding of human behavior in practical settings while gaining professional experience in behavioral health, community services or organizational environments.
Students who pursue graduate-level psychology degrees, such as a master’s or doctoral program, may explore more specialized roles that involve research, advanced analysis of behavior or applied psychological practice. These careers often require advanced coursework, research experience or professional licensure depending on the role and location.
Examples of careers that may involve graduate-level psychology education include:
- Psychologist
- Therapist
- Counselor
- Industrial organizational psychologist
Graduate education in psychology can support deeper specialization in areas such as research, behavioral health, organizational psychology or counseling depending on the program focus and professional pathway.
Why Study Psychology at GCU
GCU’s programs are shaped by a Christian worldview that encourages learners to grow in wisdom, compassion and ethical decision‑making. The curriculum emphasizes servant leadership, character development and mission‑driven learning, helping students build the foundation needed to support individuals and uplift communities. With an environment dedicated to personal and professional growth, students can prepare themselves to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Supportive academic resources and flexible learning opportunities help learners pursue their goals with confidence and purpose.
Flexible Learning Formats
GCU, an institutionally accredited university offering both campus and online(See disclaimer 2) psychology programs, allows learners to choose the format that best fits their lifestyle and goals. On‑campus students benefit from in‑person collaboration and direct access to faculty and resources. Online students enjoy the flexibility to balance education with work, family and other responsibilities.
Experienced Faculty
Psychology programs are led by experienced faculty who bring industry knowledge and experience directly into the classroom, linking theory to practice and offering valuable insight. They also act as mentors, providing a supportive environment with flexible office hours and timely feedback, all aimed at helping students build the skills and confidence for their future careers.
Research-Informed Curriculum
GCU’s psychology curriculum is developed using evidence‑based strategies that align with current industry standards. It considers emerging educational trends and best practices to ensure each course supports students in mastering psychological concepts. By grounding learning pathways in research‑based data and industry insights, GCU aims to equip students with relevant skills that can be directly applied in professional practice.
Faith-Integrated Education
GCU’s psychology programs incorporate faith into the curriculum, allowing students to study human behavior with compassion and integrity. This approach promotes ethical decision‑making and personal character formation and emphasizes the importance of serving others. By focusing on these values, the programs aim to cultivate servant leaders prepared to enhance the lives of those they serve.
Online vs Campus Psychology Programs
GCU’s online(See disclaimer 2) psychology programs offer both convenience and flexibility. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty and peers through virtual discussions, group projects and interactive learning tools, all designed to keep you engaged while balancing your work and life commitments.
If you prefer an in-person experience, our on-campus programs provide a vibrant and supportive environment where you can build relationships face-to-face, participate in hands-on learning and immerse yourself in campus life.
Campus psychology programs provide in-person instruction where students attend classes on campus and interact directly with faculty and peers while accessing campus resources.
An online(See disclaimer 2) psychology degree offers flexibility for students balancing school with work or other commitments. Coursework is delivered through a digital learning platform, allowing students to access lectures, assignments and discussions remotely.
Evening psychology programs allow students to attend classes on campus during evening hours, which may help accommodate daytime work or other responsibilities.
Psychology Degree FAQs
Explore answers to common questions about our psychology degrees, the field and potential career paths to help you make informed decisions.
Can you earn a psychology degree online?
Yes, GCU offers online(See disclaimer 2) psychology degree programs that provide the same rigorous curriculum, academic quality and learning outcomes as our on‑campus options. You can participate in interactive discussions, collaborative assignments and digital learning experiences that help to keep you connected with faculty and engaged with your peers.
Is a psychology degree worth it?
A psychology degree can be worth it for those passionate about understanding human behavior and helping others. Advancing to a graduate degree in psychology can open doors to opportunities in fields like education, healthcare, marketing and counseling.
Even at the bachelor’s level, a psychology degree can equip you with essential skills in communication, research, ethics and analytical thinking, which are applicable in many professions. Additionally, it can offer personal rewards by deepening your understanding of thought processes, relationships, motivation and behavior, which can benefit both your career and personal growth.
What is the best psychology degree to get?
The best psychology degree depends on your goals. A bachelor’s degree provides foundational skills for careers in human services and business. A master’s degree can help you specialize in fields like industrial-organizational psychology and forensic psychology.
When selecting a psychology degree, consider your career goals, readiness for graduate studies and the need for advanced degrees in certain specializations. Remember that clinical roles require graduate education and supervised experience, and choose a path that inspires you, as psychology is a people-centered field.
Is psychology a good major?
Psychology can be a great major for those interested in understanding people and helping others while developing transferable skills for various careers. It can provide a solid foundation for roles in human services, business and behavioral health. Graduates can enter the workforce after earning a bachelor’s degree or pursue further studies in specialized fields like counseling.
Do you need a doctorate to be a psychologist?
A doctoral degree is typically required to become a licensed psychologist, particularly for clinical and counseling roles. However, many careers in psychology, such as human services and case management, can be pursued with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology.
To practice independently or provide therapy, you generally need a doctorate and supervised experience. Your educational path should align with your career goals: a doctorate is necessary for clinical practice, while non-clinical roles may only require a lower degree.
What is the difference between psychology and counseling?
Psychology and counseling are closely related fields, but they differ in their focus, scope of practice and educational pathways. Psychology is the broader scientific field that investigates human behavior, mental processes, cognition, emotion and development. It encompasses research, assessment and theory, with psychologists working in various settings like schools and healthcare. Many roles require a doctoral degree and licensure.
Counseling focuses on helping individuals overcome personal challenges and improve well‑being through talk therapy, goal‑setting and skills development. It is more practice‑oriented and emphasizes wellness and personal growth. To become a licensed professional counselor (LPC), one typically needs a master’s degree in counseling, supervised clinical experience and state licensure.
Are online psychology degrees respected?
Employers value the education quality, accreditation of the institution and skills over whether a degree is earned online or on campus. GCU’s online programs are rigorous and involve collaborative projects, often using the same faculty and curriculum as in-person courses.
They also showcase important traits, such as self-discipline and time management. Ultimately, the credibility of an online(See disclaimer 2) psychology degree depends on the institution’s accreditation and program quality, not the delivery format.
Psychology Resources and Articles
Explore articles and educational resources that examine topics related to psychology, including degree paths, specializations and the study of human behavior. These resources can help you learn more about psychology programs and the field of behavioral science.
Discover how psychology shapes our understanding of human behavior, learning and relationships. Uncover the essential role it plays in personal growth and societal development as you explore the science behind the human experience.
Learn about the many pathways within psychology and counseling to discover which specialty aligns with your passion for helping others lead healthier, more balanced lives.
Gain insight into how different psychological perspectives contribute to a fuller understanding of human behavior and mental processes, and how combining multiple viewpoints can strengthen your foundation as a psychology student or future professional.
Explore psychology degree programs offered online, on campus and in evening formats. Discover options that align with your interests and academic goals.
(See disclaimer †) MOU 10324: This scholarship is only valid for new student applicants who submit a complete application, meet all requirements for acceptance and start an online or evening Bachelor of Science in Psychology or Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science beginning on or after Feb. 1, 2026. GCU will award eligible applicants a scholarship of 32% off tuition per course for your program. This scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other GCU scholarship/awards. This scholarship will be applied toward your tuition only, and you will not receive funds in excess of your charges.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Psychologists, as of May 2024, retrieved March 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as psychologists, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
Excluding residencies, practicums, internships and field experience.