Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science

Miami University’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science is a popular and highly employable major that prepares students for careers in Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, Counseling, Biopsychology, and many related fields. This degree is offered through the Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences and may be completed entirely at Miami’s regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown.

What is the B.A. in Psychological Science?

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science is a general degree that prepares students for specialized careers in the areas of Child Development, Human Resources, Market Research Analysis, Project Evaluation, Department Management, as well as Counseling, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse services. If you are interested in helping people or understanding human or animal behavior, this degree is for you.

Graduating Psychological Science majors will be able to:

  1. Describe key concepts, principles, and overarching themes in psychology
  2. Use scientific reasoning to interpret psychological phenomena
  3. Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science and practice
  4. Demonstrate effective writing for different purposes
  5. Apply psychological content and skills to career goals

What classes would I take?

The B.A. in Psychological Science includes courses in developmental, behavioral, social/cultural, abnormal, and cognitive psychology, as well as research methods and statistics. The majority of courses during the first two years are available both online and face-to-face; the last two years of the program are entirely face-to-face. Students will become consumers and producers of research by way of coursework, with opportunity for independent or small-group research with Ph.D. faculty. Students also enjoy a full gamut of opportunities for experiential and service learning in Hamilton, Middletown and surrounding communities. Learn more about the curriculum requirements on Miami University's Undergraduate Bulletin website.

What could I do and where could I work as a graduate of this program?

In addition to being prepared for graduate school in psychology and related fields (such as law school or medical school), students with a B.A. in Psychological Science will be qualified for careers such as

  • Child Development Specialist
  • Child Life Specialist
  • Psychiatric Technician
  • Mental Health Technician
  • Substance Abuse Technician
  • Department Manager
  • Human Resources Adviser
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Medical and Health Services Manager
  • Social and Community Service Manager
  • Project Evaluator

Visit the Psychology Job and Internship Opportunities blog to get an idea of some current job and internship openings in psychological science.

Local Job Statistics

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (2015), there is expected to be future (2015-2022) significant job growth in Ohio for numerous psychology and psychology-related careers. According to the Ohio Jobs Outlook (2022), significant job growth of 15-29 percent is expected in the Southwest Ohio Metro Region that includes Cincinnati and Dayton. The outlook is even better in Hamilton and Middletown, where job growth of 17-36 percent is anticipated. There currently are hundreds of job openings for careers in psychology in Southwest Ohio, according to the Ohio Labor Market.

Top NACE* Employability Skills of focus in this degree program

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • Oral and Written Communications
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Information Technology Application
  • Leadership
  • Professionalism and Work Ethic
  • Career Management

Will the field continue to grow?

Yes. According to the Ohio 2022 Jobs Outlook, significant job growth of 15-29 percent is expected in the Southwest Ohio Metro Region that includes Cincinnati and Dayton. The outlook is even better in Hamilton and Middletown, where job growth of 17-36 percent is anticipated. There currently are hundreds of job openings for careers in psychology in Southwest Ohio, according to the Ohio Labor Market.

How do I get started?

Choose one of the options below and start on your pathway to success!