Program Overview

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behavior and psychologists seek to understand all aspects of human thought, experience and action. For example, psychologists interested in decision making might investigate the roles of reason or superstition in the choices people make. Other psychologists might focus on factors that influence emotions ranging from uncontrollable rage, paralyzing fear, and suicidal depression to passionate desire and ecstatic joy. Psychologists are interested in the circumstances that might motivate an individual to risk their own life to save others at one moment and commit acts of great cruelty at another.  Finally, psychologists apply insights gained through research to practical issues such as treatment of mental illness, increasing job satisfaction, reducing prejudice, increasing recovery from brain injury, preventing crime, and developing youth programs that enhance self-esteem and achievement.

With your two-year associate of arts degree in psychology you’ll get most, if not all, of the requirements to enter third year of a major or honours psychology degree program. Complete a specified two years (approximately 60 credits) of courses with us, and then finish your degree at the university of your choice.

Courses Include

• Introductory Psychology
• Biological Psychology
• Emotional and social disorders
• Child development
• Research methods
• Psychotic and organic disorders
• Adult development

Following completion of the associate of arts program in psychology, students will understand and be able to explain major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings and historical trends in psychology. This will include content related to developmental psychology, mental illness and biological psychology. Students will also be able to apply critical and creative thinking; skeptical inquiry; and the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes. They will know how to seek and evaluate scientific evidence for psychological claims and apply basic research methods so as to become informed consumers of research. Students will also understand the necessity of ethical behavior in the science and practice of psychology.

Career Potential

This diverse field can lead to hundreds of different careers involved with human behavior and why we think, feel and act as we do. You can also use your degree to work towards other professional careers in fields like medicine, law, business management. Examples of a pathways open to students of psychology include:

If you are interested in learning more about the range of career options in psychology, the following links are two excellent sources of information:

• Career Guide published by the American Psychological Association
• Canadian Psychological Association Career Resources Guide