Applied Psychology

Applied Psychology

Bachelor of Science

Students who are called to work in the helping professions in both secular and sacred settings will develop a strong foundation through the psychology program. The Applied Psychology degree prepares students for the soul care dimensions of work with individuals and families. 

This program equips individuals with critical thinking skills that are scripturally based and methods that are culturally relevant and clinically sound. For some, the major will provide foundational studies in preparation for graduate school in the helping professions. Graduates who seek advanced education typically choose advanced studies in psychology, counseling or social work. Others will apply this degree to work within mental health settings immediately after graduation and/or utilize the relational skills gained in this program in a wide range of careers, including business, human services and ministry.  

A Christ-centered education gives students a holistic approach to psychology and leaders in the department value the development of a Christian worldview in all graduates, academic excellence in teaching and learning, and continuous transformation toward wholeness in both the professors and the students.

120 Units

2-4 Years

Online + AI

About the Program

Accessible through our innovative AI platform, this program allows students to utilize cutting-edge technology to gain hands-on experience while mastering each course. Faculty in this program are leaders in their field and will provide current and relevant learning opportunities that bridge the gap between academy and industry.

Aligned with Jessup’s Christ-centered focus, this program integrates faith in learning, allowing students to build a strong ethical framework that they will utilize in their industry. This ethical framework is especially attractive to employers who are seeking candidates that are guided by strong principles and values and can effectively navigate the rapidly changing world of AI and technology.

Learning Outcomes

Integration and application of Christian faith with the study of psychology.

Foundational knowledge in the broad areas of study within psychology, including:  human growth and development, interpersonal skills, personality theory, biopsychology, human relationships, human sexuality, psychopathology, human sensation and perception, human motivation/learning, research methods and statistics, and legal and ethical issues in the helping professions.

Utilization of critical thinking skills to resolve issues related to behavioral, mental and/or ethical processes.

Respect for the diversity of human behavior and experience.

Skillful communication with individuals and groups.

Personal growth emerging from the study in the major.

Major Courses

  • Applied Psychology Core – 53 units
    • PSYC102 – Psychology and Christian Thought (3 units)
    • PSYC230 – Psychology of Relationships (3 units)
    • PSYC300 – Personality Theory (3 units)
    • PSYC332 – Cross-Cultural Psychology (3 units)
    • PSYC333 – Human Sexuality (3 units)
    • PSYC351 – Abnormal Psychology (3 units)
    • PSYC290 or MATH121 – Research Statistics for the Social Sciences or Applied Stats (3 units)
    • PSYC392 – Research Methods in the Social Sciences (3 units)
    • PSYC410 – Cognitive Psychology (3 units)
    • PSYC452 – Biopsychology (3 units)
    • PSYC475a & 475b – Field Work in Psychology I and II (4 units)
    • PSYC498 – Applied Integration Capstone (4 units)
    • Psychology Electives – Other department courses with faculty mentor approval (15 units)
    • GE: Social and Behavioral Science (3 units)
    • GE: Communication (3 units)
    • GE: Physical and Biological Sciences (4–5 units)



Core Skills

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

  • Empathic listening and active communication
  • Conflict resolution and mediation
  • Ability to work effectively in diverse teams
  • Interviewing and rapport-building techniques

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

  • Analytical thinking about behavior and mental processes
  • Objectively evaluating evidence and arguments
  • Identifying patterns in complex situations
  • Applying psychological theories to real-world problems

Research & Data Analysis

  • Designing surveys or behavioral studies
  • Collecting, interpreting and reporting data
  • Using statistics (often with tools like SPSS, Excel, or R)
  • Translating research into practical applications

Ethics & Cultural Sensitivity

  • Understanding ethical guidelines for human behavior
  • Awareness of confidentiality and boundaries
  • Cultural competence in diverse workplace or client settings
  • Advocacy for mental health and well-being

Organization & Project Management

  • Managing multiple cases, tasks or research projects
  • Strong documentation and reporting skills
  • Detail-oriented, especially in data tracking and behavior observation
  • Time management and self-discipline

Understanding Human Behavior

  • Insight into motivation, emotion, learning and personality
  • Knowledge of cognitive and developmental stages
  • Behavior modification and habit formation

Practical knowledge in areas like addiction, trauma or social dynamics

The study of human thought and behavior, through a biblical worldview, will equip you for the compassionate service of individuals and communities in the love of Christ, in counseling, ministry, leadership, or wherever you may be called.

Dr. Robert Rodriquez

Program Director, Applied Psychology

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