Applied Psychology, B.A. Online

Applied Psychology, B.A. Online

Overview

PLNU’s Online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology prepares you for rewarding careers where understanding people is the key to success.

According to the American Psychological Association, Applied Psychology is “the application of the theories, principles, and techniques of psychology to practical concerns” in our professional and everyday lives. PLNU’s Applied Psychology B.A. program will prepare you with the fundamental principles of psychology to promote individual and societal well-being in a variety of fields.

During the program, you will develop expertise in communication, intercultural awareness, data analysis, and creative problem-solving. This degree prepares you to tackle psychological and social challenges while learning to build stronger relationships, promote wellness and mental health, and make a meaningful impact in your community.

Learn psychology with real-world applications

With a B.A. in Applied Psychology, you’ll gain the tools to understand human behavior and apply your knowledge to real-world challenges. Applied psychology prepares you to succeed in a variety of career paths — whether you're improving workplace culture, analyzing consumer behavior, or helping individuals in need.

The coursework of this program goes beyond theory and emphasizes the application of psychological principles in areas like cultural sensitivity, ethical communication, and media psychology. You’ll explore fascinating questions such as how media shapes societal norms, why people form habits and addictions, and how psychological principles influence cultural change. Additionally, classes like Justice Psychology challenge you to analyze the human side of fairness and equity.

Supportive, fully online learning — on your terms

This online program gives you the flexibility to learn when and where you want. You can complete coursework in the comfort of your home, favorite coffee shop, or local library while choosing a study schedule that works best for you.

You’ll also have access to top-tier mentorship from professors and advisors committed to your personal, professional and spiritual growth. They’ll help you to leverage your strengths to expand your connections and career opportunities. You’ll be able to access resources tailored to you and your career goals.

Psychology focused on community impact

We believe education should go beyond the classroom to make a real-world impact. That’s why the Applied Psychology B.A. program includes a service learning component that gives students practical experience working with others while putting psychological principles into action. Through service learning with diverse communities, you’ll gain practical skills and experience to be an effective leader within sectors such as social services, healthcare, education, business, and more.

A seamless transition from your past education

A counselor and coordinator will work with you through every step of your journey to complete your bachelor’s, from helping you transfer previously-earned credit to working alongside you with care and encouragement as you earn your degree. You won’t feel like you’re starting a brand-new program — rather, it will be a natural continuation of your previous education experience.

Students applying for this program can also start with as few as zero college credits completed. PLNU offers all general education, elective, and prerequisite courses needed for completion of the applied psychology program. All courses are three units spanning eight weeks, with the exception of the Biblical Perspectives course. With entry points every eight weeks, you can start whenever you're ready!

Who is it for?Busy working adults who prefer independence.
Program StartSix start dates year-round
Program Structure100% online and asynchronous
LocationOnline — flexible

Application Information

Program Start Date(s):

  • Fall 2025 Quad I — September 2, 2025
  • Fall 2025 Quad II — October 27, 2025

Start Application

Please select "Accelerated Undergraduate" and not "Undergraduate" when completing the online application.

Application Checklist

The application is completed entirely online with the exception of transcripts, which can be submitted electronically or directly to PLNU, and test scores, which should be submitted electronically.

  1. Submit online application for admission.
  2. Submit official transcripts from each institution attended.

    Official transcripts must be sent to:
    Point Loma Nazarene University
    Office of Graduate Admissions
    3900 Lomaland Dr.
    San Diego, CA 92106

    Official electronic transcripts must be emailed to:
    gradprocessing@pointloma.edu

State Authorization

In certain states outside California, PLNU is not authorized to enroll students in online courses and/or offer internships. If a student moves to another state after admission to a program or enrollment in an online course, continuation in the program/course will depend on whether PLNU is authorized within that state. Please refer to the State Authorization map to view which states allow online courses and/or internships.

Career Opportunities

PLNU’s Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology program offers a versatile and scientifically grounded curriculum designed to prepare students for impactful careers across diverse fields. This program equips students with the skills to analyze human behavior, apply data-driven insights, and address real-world challenges in areas such as mental health, culture, media, and justice.

Graduates of the B.A. in Applied Psychology can pursue roles such as:

  • Data Analyst
  • Behavioral Health Specialist
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Media Psychologist
  • Human Resource Specialist
  • Counselor
  • Justice Program Advocate
  • Social Services Coordinator
  • Psychology Educator
  • Research Assistant
  • Organizational Development Consultant
  • Training and Development Specialist

Financial Aid and Student Support

We take seriously the role of providing you with financial, academic, and career support so you have the tools you need to be successful at PLNU and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Financial Aid and Student Support

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while completing the program?

Yes! This program is designed with busy working adults in mind.

Does this program prepare me to be a licensed psychologist?

This program does not have the prerequisites to prepare students for licensure; however, it provides a strong foundation in applied psychology and valuable skills in understanding human behavior that equip students to graduate studies in clinical counseling and other psychology-related programs. 

I want to go to graduate school so I can become a therapist. Is this program a good fit for me?

The B.A. in Applied Psychology at PLNU provides an excellent foundation for many graduate programs, including Clinical and Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), and Social Work (MSW). You’ll complete courses in Developmental Psychology, Statistics, and Research Methods, along with applied classes like Judgment and Decision-Making and Motivation and Emotion.

While our program equips you with many of the prerequisites for graduate study, some programs may require additional courses — such as Abnormal Psychology or Biological Psychology — outside of PLNU’s program. We encourage students to work closely with advisors to research graduate program requirements and plan accordingly.

How long does it take to complete the program?

With accelerated 8-week courses and six enrollment points per year, students can potentially complete the program faster than traditional timelines, depending on their pace and course load.

Is there a hands-on component to the program?

Yes, the program includes a service-learning capstone, allowing students to apply psychological principles in real-world settings and make a positive impact on communities.

What scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to me?

You'll have the option to apply for a number of scholarships through PLNU's Student Financial Services. This program qualifies for state and federal financial aid options. Contact your enrollment counselor for more information.

Do you accept transfer credits into your program?

Yes! Contact your enrollment counselor for details.

Do I need any prerequisites to enroll in courses?

No, the program does not have formal prerequisites. Upper-division courses require that students have taken or be enrolled in at least one lower-division course.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Applied Psychology, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course information coming soon.