BS in Psychology

What is a BS in Psychology?

A Bachelor of Science (BS) is one of two undergraduate degrees offered in the field of psychology. Unlike the BA (Bachelor of Arts), which is usually offered as a liberal arts degree and thus involves a heavier load of general-education classes and electives, the BS is a more specialized degree with a research focus. As you work toward your BS in Psychology, you will take more classes in science and math as part of your major than someone going for the BA, and you will probably have less space in your schedule for the breadth that BA students can gain. This is both an advantage and a disadvantage, so consider carefully before choosing which is the path for you.

Most Bachelor’s degrees (including the BS in Psychology) take 4 years to complete. Some students take 3 or 5 years to graduate, but the vast majority complete their degree on the standard 4-year college schedule. There are many schools that offer joint BS-MS degrees – rather than finishing a 4-year BS followed by a 2-year MS, students in these programs compress both degrees into an intensive 5-year period.

The BS in Psychology is a perfect introduction to the field of psychology for those who are interested but have no educational background in it. Coursework at the Bachelor’s degree level will start with the bare basics and cover all major branches and theories in psychology. Be aware, though, that because a BS in Psychology is more specialized than a BA, the BA degree is more suited for students who are unsure whether they want to pursue a psych-related career.

As a student of psychology, your object of inquiry will be human behavior and the human mind. Major topics in psychology include learning and memory, social behavior, perception, and mental health disorders. A BS in Psychology is also excellent preparation for further study not only in psychology, but also in related fields such as neuroscience, cognitive science, counseling, and sociology.

How do I get into a BS program?

Typically, applicants for programs leading to a Bachelor of Science in Psychology are high school students, and their application is for admission into a college or university as an undeclared major, rather than seeking admission for a specific degree. This gives Bachelor’s degree students more time to “shop around” and decide on a major while fulfilling general-education requirements. In other words, getting into a BS in Psychology program is usually not any different from getting into college generally. It will require the same educational background (a high school diploma with reasonably good grades in the last 2-3 years of school) and test scores (SAT and/or ACT). You will also have to write an essay or personal statement detailing why you are well-suited and well-prepared to succeed as a college student. In most cases, there is no need to make the case that you will make a good psychology student – mention your interest in a BS in Psychology if you think it’s necessary, but don’t think that you have to choose your degree ahead of time.

Completing Your Degree Online

Completing a BS in Psychology online has many pros and cons. Perhaps the most significant advantage is that an online degree is completed at your pace and on your schedule. This is especially helpful for “nontraditional” students, i.e. those who are beginning their college studies later in life rather than immediately after high school. Online degrees are also a great option for those in rural areas who cannot or do not wish to commute to their on-campus classes and activities.

The disadvantage of an online BS in Psychology is the loss of face-time with faculty and fellow students. Much of the learning at the Bachelor’s Degree level is done outside of class, and this will be difficult to replicate in an online environment. Personal advising and counseling from professors is also an advantage of on-campus degrees, although some high-quality online programs offer services intended to provide the same advantage in a virtual setting. All things considered, most people prefer the on-campus experience to the online experience. That said, there is nothing wrong with an online degree from a career perspective (as long as the program is accredited and reputable), and for those many students who need the added flexibility of the virtual classroom, an online BS in Psychology is a great solution.

Advice for Prospective Students

If you can afford the commitment of time and resources (or if you can secure scholarships or other sources of funding), there is little reason not to get a Bachelor’s Degree. A Bachelor of Science in Psychology is one such degree, and is an excellent choice for those interested in human beings, their behavior, and their internal processes. You should not be worried about choosing a career path too early, however, as what your choice of a major does not preclude going in other directions later in life. The skills you learn from a BS in Psychology will be applicable in nearly all lines of work, since the ability to understand human behaviors and emotions is an essential life skill.