Psychology, Applied (Bachelor of Arts)

Program Overview

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The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology is a third-year entry program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles and theories, research skills, and practical experience. Students can choose to focus on one of six concentrations, including Pre-counselling, Psychosocial Rehabilitation, and Forensic/Criminology. The program prepares students for careers in psychology or related fields, such as counselling, human resources, and research.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology is a third-year entry program for individuals who have completed 60 credits of undergraduate coursework, typically through an Associate of Arts in Psychology. This program provides students with essential knowledge in psychological theory and research, along with practical experience through field placements and hands-on work with psychology computer tools and lab time. Students can choose to focus on one of six concentrations: Pre-counselling, Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Disability and Applied Behaviour Analysis, Forensic/Criminology, Applied Theory and Research, or Leadership and Management.

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Objectives:

The program aims to equip students with:

• A comprehensive understanding of psychological principles and theories
• Research and data analysis skills
• Practical experience in applying psychological knowledge
• Specialized knowledge in a chosen concentration area
• Preparation for careers in psychology or related fields

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Program Outline:

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Content:

• Core Psychology Courses: Critical Issues in Psychology, History and Philosophy of Modern Psychology, Introduction to Social Psychology, Applications of Psychological Knowledge (Service Learning & Research), Developmental Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, Data Analysis in Psychology
• Concentration Courses: Students choose one of six concentrations, each with its own set of required and elective courses.
• Electives: Students can select additional courses from psychology or other disciplines to complement their studies.

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Structure:

• Third-year entry program
• Four-year duration
• 120 credits required for graduation
• A minimum of 30 upper-level credits in psychology
• A minimum of 45 hours of field experience

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Course Schedule:

• Courses are offered in a variety of formats, including face-to-face, hybrid, and online.
• Course availability may vary by semester and campus.

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Individual Modules with Descriptions:

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Core Psychology Courses:

• Critical Issues in Psychology: Examines contemporary issues and debates in psychology.
• History and Philosophy of Modern Psychology: Explores the historical development of psychological thought and its philosophical foundations.
• Introduction to Social Psychology: Studies the influence of social factors on individual behavior and cognition.
• Applications of Psychological Knowledge (Service Learning & Research): Provides hands-on experience in applying psychological principles through service learning and research projects.
• Developmental Psychology: Examines human development across the lifespan, from infancy to old age.
• Research Methods in Psychology: Introduces the principles and methods of psychological research.
• Data Analysis in Psychology: Develops skills in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting psychological data.

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Concentration Courses:

• Pre-counselling: Prepares students for graduate studies in counselling psychology.
• Psychosocial Rehabilitation: Focuses on the principles and practices of psychosocial rehabilitation for individuals with mental health challenges.
• Disability and Applied Behaviour Analysis: Provides specialized knowledge in the field of disability and applied behaviour analysis.
• Forensic/Criminology: Explores the application of psychology to the legal system and criminal justice.
• Applied Theory and Research: Offers a broad base of psychological theories and their applications across various fields.
• Leadership and Management: Combines psychology with business and management principles.

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Assessment:

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Methods:

• Exams
• Assignments
• Presentations
• Research projects
• Fieldwork evaluations

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Criteria:

• Students are assessed on their knowledge of psychological principles, research skills, and ability to apply psychological knowledge in practical settings.
• Specific assessment criteria may vary depending on the course and concentration.

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Teaching:

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Methods:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Workshops
• Labs
• Field placements

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in various areas of psychology.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research and professional practice.

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Unique Approaches:

• Field Experience: Students gain practical experience through field placements in community organizations and agencies.
• Psychology Computer Tools and Lab Time: Students have access to specialized psychology computer tools and lab facilities to enhance their learning.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Students can volunteer with the Douglas Psychology Society to gain additional experience and connect with other psychology students.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Academic Advisor / Tutor
• Addictions Counsellor
• Advertising Copywriter
• Career Coach
• Case Manager
• Child/Youth Protection Worker
• Community Relations Officer
• Credit Counsellor
• Conflict Mediator
• Data Analyst
• Employment Counsellor
• Fundraiser / Development Officer
• Hospice Coordinator
• Housing Manager
• Human Resources Advisor
• Immigration/Border Officer
• Indigenous Counsellor
• Laboratory/Research Manager
• Market Researcher
• Military Personnel
• Probation/Parole Officer
• Program Coordinator/Evaluator
• Psychiatric Rehabilitation Worker
• Public Relations Specialist
• Psychologist Assistant
• Technical Writer

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Careers with Additional Credentials:

• Behaviour Analyst / Consultant
• Clinical Supervisor
• Counsellor (Registered Clinical, Family, School, Corrections, Vocational)
• Human Resources Manager
• Industrial/Organizational Psychologist
• Lawyer
• Mental Health and Wellness Consultant
• Music Therapist
• Nurse (Psychiatric, etc.)
• Occupational Therapist
• Physician (Psychiatrist, etc.)
• Post-Secondary Instructor
• Psychometrist
• Psychotherapist
• Registered Psychologist (Clinical, School, etc.)
• Research Associate/Scientist
• Teacher (Elementary/Secondary)
• Trauma Specialist