Course LoginPreparation for a successful career using applied psychology requires a broad knowledge base for the major elements of psychological sciences. The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology (BAAP) at Azusa Pacific Online University equips students with professional knowledge and practical skills in general psychology, emphases areas, and upper division electives. Students will study these psychological principles through a Christian worldview.
Learn more about the career opportunities available with B.A. in Applied Psychology.
The Applied Psychology program prepares students for service in a variety of public- and private-sector organizations, including life care administration, psychology support services, government service, and nonprofits. Students complete the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology in order to gain promotions (for example, in crime labs or police departments), move into a teaching field, work in specialty professions (church ministry or business), or prepare for master’s-level studies. Graduates will be strongly positioned for careers in governmental agencies, health care institutions, churches, and nonprofits.
Program Highlights
- Develop experiential, applicable, and practical approaches
- Integrate a Christian worldview
- Evaluate ethical behavior and decision-making within the profession
- Utilize empirical, analytical, and inductive reasoning
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of methods, theories, and concepts in the field
Coursework
Prerequisites
Before beginning the BAAP major, APOU recommends that students complete the entire General Studies Core (60 units). Prior to starting the applied psychology major, the faculty requires students to complete at least 45 units of the core requirements, including the following courses or their equivalents:
Momentum: Success in the University
This course lays a strong foundation for a successful transition to college by increasing critical thinking, curiosity, goal orientation, and motivation skills. It provides an orientation to Azusa Pacific Online University, the Moodle online learning system, digital library services, and other support services. Students will be introduced to the idea of a Christian Liberal Arts education, a strengths approach to learning, and opportunities to develop practical skills and strategies for addressing the challenges of college. This course is a prerequisite for all other APOU courses.
Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry
The theological, educational, and social bases for ministry and service are examined. An analysis of the church’s responsibility and methods for carrying out the ministry mandate of Jesus is emphasized. Field experience is required.
Public Communication
This course offers practical instruction in how to speak effectively and introduces the basic principles underlying effective communication. Topics range from the study of theoretical models of interpersonal and public communication to the fundamental skills of research, organization, and delivery of informative and persuasive discourse.
Composition: Argument and Analysis
This course promotes the intellectual and rhetorical skills necessary to write persuasive and argumentative prose. Specific areas addressed include logic, grammar, and rhetoric. Clarity of purpose and perspicuity of argument are examined through attention to critical thinking, logical fallacies, and textual analysis. Prerequisite: ENGL 101. Course is limited to 15 students.
Basic Software Tools
This PC-based course covers the basics of MS Windows and the use of applications software as problem-solving tools. In-depth coverage of popular word processing, database, and spreadsheet packages is included.
College Algebra
This course is a study of basic college algebra, including polynomial and rational functions, inverse functions, the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, advanced graphical procedures and interpretations, linear and nonlinear systems of equations, matrix representations of systems of equations, and introductory concepts in sequence, series and probability. Prerequisite: MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra, SAT 540/ACT 23 math score, or appropriate score on APOU mathematics placement test.
Applied Statistics
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development. (MGT 280 = APSY 280) Prerequisite: MATH 110 College Algebra with a grade of B or higher
General Psychology
This general survey course explores the field of psychology. It includes human development, social psychology, learning, perception, cognition, motivation, personality, psychological testing, and nervous system functioning. Students enrolled in this course may be required to share information regarding their personal life, family, or relationships.
* Required for BAAP
Major Course Sequence
In addition to the APOU General Studies Core and elective requirements, the 60-unit BAAP major consists of three components, namely the Applied Psychology core (36 units) , emphasis area (18 units), and elective section (6 units).
Applied Psychology Core Requirements (36 units)
Applied Statistics
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development. (Cross-listed as MGT 280) Prerequisite: MATH 110 College Algebra with a grade of B or higher
Research Methods in Psychology
A comprehensive theoretical and practical introduction to planning, conducting, reporting, and evaluating psychological research. Topics include experimental design, quantitative and qualitative procedures, ethical considerations, as well as, critical analysis and scrutiny of published research. Students will plan, conduct, and present research using APA guidelines and writing standards. (Prerequisites: APSY 280 Applied Statistics)
Abnormal Psychology
A systematic overview of the classification, explanation, and treatment of disorders described in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Historical and modern trends in etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment are examined.
Developmental Psychology
An extensive study of psychological development from conception through death. This multidisciplinary approach examines the effects of psychosocial, cognitive, biological, moral, and related factors that impact human development.
Integration of Psychology and Christianity
A constructive integration of psychology and the Christian faith. Critically analyzes psychological theories, treatments, and perspectives through a Christian worldview, while also developing an understanding of how psychology informs theology and faith.
Interviewing and Counseling Techniques
An overview of basic clinical interviewing and counseling techniques from both the didactic and experiential perspectives. Topics include methods and theories in counseling, roles in the counseling relationship, legal considerations, dealing with resistance, cultural awareness and ethical issues related to counseling.
Social Psychology
A comprehensive overview of social psychology that examines how the thoughts, feelings, and behavior of individuals is influenced by actual, imagined, or implied social interactions. Includes pertinent research, ethical and cultural aspects to social psychology.
Psychopharmacology
An introduction to the behavioral, psychological, and physiological effects of chemicals used in the treatment of psychological disorders. Addresses therapeutic and recreational uses coupled with prevention and treatment of abuse and alternatives to medication.
Cultural Psychology
Reviews the limitations and contributions of research and perspectives on the psychology of culture. Examines the relations between cultural factors and human behavior, psychopathology, and necessary modification of psychological services.
Practicum
Students participate in field or research experience along with completing related discussions, readings, and other required coursework. All students serving in research positions will serve as apprentices on survey, laboratory, clinical, and/or field research projects. Practicum proposals must be approved by the instructor. (Prerequisites: Completion of all BAAP core courses and 9 units in emphasis area or consent of instructor)
Choose one:
Personality Theory
An evaluative review of the methods and content utilized in the study personality. Covers varied approaches and theories to understanding the dynamics of personality and instruments measuring personality along with their validity and ethical considerations.
Psychology of Emotions
Analysis of theoretical and empirical issues in the domain of emotions, incorporating current approaches and interactions between emotion and cognition.
Choose one:
Learning Theory
Foundations of human learning are examined, with an emphasis on experimental research and their underlying assumptions. Both historical and contemporary concepts are discussed with particular focus on application to individuals, organizations, and institutions.
Cognition
An in-depth exploration of human cognition, focusing on both classic and current theories, problems, paradigms, methods and measurement.
Physiological Psychology
Comprehensive study of the physiological and neurological correlates of human behavior. Potential topics include physiological mechanisms in perception, learning, emotion and motivation.
Emphasis (18 units)
Students have the opportunity to select an individualized set of electives from the courses listed below in the following psychology emphases:
Criminal Behavior emphasis
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Criminal Behavior
An exploration of theories and research that provide cognitive, behavioral, and psychological explanations of criminal behavior, including how individual criminal behavior is acquired, evoked, maintained and modified. Also addresses cultural and social aspects related to criminal behavior along with effective intervention strategies.
Forensic Psychology
Investigates the application of the science and profession of psychology to issues relating to law and the legal system. Addresses related psychological research, legal issues and processes, as well as cultural and ethical issues in forensic psychology.
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Group Processes
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Cultural Psychology emphasis
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Gender Issues in Psychology
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisites: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 310 Developmental Psychology, or consent of instructor)
Ethics
An in-depth assessment of the values, ideas, and laws that guide the helping professions, including professional codes of conduct, philosophical ethical principles, and the Christian worldview.
Group Processes
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Choose two:
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Management and Organizational Behavior
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals. (Cross-listed as MGT 425)
Educational Psychology emphasis
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Special Education and Rehabilitation Services
Survey of theories, research, and practice of effective interventions for individuals with mild/moderate and moderate/severe disabilities. Legal rights, responsibilities, ethical issues, advocacy, and pertinent services are addressed.
Child Psychology
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in children emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of children.
Adolescent Psychology
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in adolescents emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of adolescents.
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Choose one:
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Positive Psychology
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
Applied Pastoral Counseling emphasis
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Selection and evaluation of standardized psychological tests and measurements are presented, with a survey pertaining to intelligence, personality, aptitude, achievement, and other traits. Validity, reliability, ethics, and misinterpretation of results are discussed. Students will administer and interpret various instruments.
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Positive Psychology
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
General Psychology emphasis
Complete these courses below and choose three APSY electives:
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Choose one:
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Choose one:
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Group Processes
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Management and Organizational Behavior
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals. (Cross-listed as MGT 425)
Business Psychology emphasis
Gender Issues in Psychology
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisites: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 310 Developmental Psychology, or consent of instructor)
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Positive Psychology
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
Group Processes
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Management and Organizational Behavior
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals. (Cross-listed as MGT 425)
Human Services emphasis
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
Gender Issues in Psychology
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisites: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 310 Developmental Psychology, or consent of instructor)
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Choose one:
Child Psychology
Physical, cognitive, psychosocial and spiritual development from conception to adolescence is emphasized. Theoretical and applied aspects of developmental stages, parenting skills, and teaching modalities are discussed. A survey of psychological disorders affecting children is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Adolescent Psychology
Major theoretical models of adolescent development and maturation are presented, with a focus on identity, socialization, family interactions, school issues, sexuality, morality, substance abuse, psychological issues, and spiritual development. A survey of psychological disorders affecting adolescents is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Choose one:
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Group Processes
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Child and Adolescent Psychology emphasis
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
Child Psychology
Physical, cognitive, psychosocial and spiritual development from conception to adolescence is emphasized. Theoretical and applied aspects of developmental stages, parenting skills, and teaching modalities are discussed. A survey of psychological disorders affecting children is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Adolescent Psychology
Major theoretical models of adolescent development and maturation are presented, with a focus on identity, socialization, family interactions, school issues, sexuality, morality, substance abuse, psychological issues, and spiritual development. A survey of psychological disorders affecting adolescents is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Choose one:
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Clinical Psychology emphasis
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Survey of the science and practice of clinical psychology, including diagnoses and evaluations, interventions and prevention strategies for use with clinical populations, cultural applications, and ethical issues in the clinical profession.
APSY Elective
Choose two:
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Choose one:
Child Psychology
Physical, cognitive, psychosocial and spiritual development from conception to adolescence is emphasized. Theoretical and applied aspects of developmental stages, parenting skills, and teaching modalities are discussed. A survey of psychological disorders affecting children is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Adolescent Psychology
Major theoretical models of adolescent development and maturation are presented, with a focus on identity, socialization, family interactions, school issues, sexuality, morality, substance abuse, psychological issues, and spiritual development. A survey of psychological disorders affecting adolescents is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Upper Division Electives (6 units)
Choose any two 400-level courses:
Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Survey of the science and practice of clinical psychology, including diagnoses and evaluations, interventions and prevention strategies for use with clinical populations, cultural applications, and ethical issues in the clinical profession.
Physiological Psychology
Comprehensive study of the physiological and neurological correlates of human behavior. Potential topics include physiological mechanisms in perception, learning, emotion and motivation.
Psychology of Emotions
Analysis of theoretical and empirical issues in the domain of emotions, incorporating current approaches and interactions between emotion and cognition.
Forensic Psychology
Investigates the application of the science and profession of psychology to issues relating to law and the legal system. Addresses related psychological research, legal issues and processes, as well as cultural and ethical issues in forensic psychology.
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
Gender Issues in Psychology
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisites: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 310 Developmental Psychology, or consent of instructor)
Child Psychology
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in children emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of children.
Adolescent Psychology
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in adolescents emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of adolescents.
Family Systems
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Conflict Management
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
Motivation
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Positive Psychology
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
Ethics
An in-depth assessment of the values, ideas, and laws that guide the helping professions, including professional codes of conduct, philosophical ethical principles, and the Christian worldview.
Group Processes
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Management and Organizational Behavior
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals. (Cross-listed as MGT 425)
Special Topics in Psychology
Current or relevant topics are presented, with the focus on new practices, theories, or research interests in the field. This course may be repeated for up to 6 units.
Note: This information is current for the 2012–13 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. To view 2012 program information, please refer to the Academic Catalog.