Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology at Wayne State University blends the study of human cognition and behavior with a broader liberal arts perspective. Here, you learn why we think the way we do, the intricacies of personality development and how internal and external factors work holistically to shape our mental health.
Why Wayne State's B.A. in Psychology?
- Get involved with the bustling Detroit, MI, community by researching at medical centers or working in mental health clinics and shelters
- Departmental scholarships fund undergraduate research, conferences and study-abroad trips
- Customizable curriculum to explore a concentration or double major lending support to your future career or graduate study
Learning objectives
The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology ensures that you:
- Gain a broad understanding of psychology applicable to nearly every industry through lectures, labs and exciting research.
- Develop your scientific approach to the analysis of human behavior.
- Tailor your degree in a manner that appeals to prospective employers.
B.A. in Psychology program requirements and curriculum
The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology requires a minimum of 120 credits. You meet this requirement by completing the following three components:
- University general education requirements
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences group requirements
- Overall B.A. in Psychology program requirements
Your major psychology classes span mathematics, labs, research methods, statistical methods, experimental lectures and your choice of core courses. Depending on your personal interests, you might also decide to concentrate your studies in a specialized area or pursue a double major or major-minor combination. Looking to graduate with honors? Learn about our psychology honors program.
Funded research
Hands-on research is a fundamental part of the B.A. in Psychology program. To promote these experiences, the department supports undergraduate research and conferences-including the cost of travel through the use of scholarship funds.
To learn more about in-depth research with our dedicated faculty, explore our specialized laboratory facilities.
Interested in graduate study? Wayne State University offers volunteer opportunities at our renowned Psychology Clinic.
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology career outlook
A degree in psychology is highly flexible, allowing you to apply your education toward numerous roles and industries such as:
- Counseling
- Government
- Health care
- Human resources
- Management
- Psychiatry
- Research
- Teaching
Career insights
A degree in psychology can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are just a few of the many opportunities available in this field.
| Career | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Compliance managers | $81,000 |
| Child, family and school social workers | $57,000 |
| Museum technicians and conservators | $39,000 |
| Educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors | $60,000 |
| Health care social workers | $63,000 |
| Mental health and substance abuse social workers | $57,000 |
| Mental health counselor | $68,000 |
| Psychiatric aide | $41,000 |
| Psychology teachers, postsecondary | $90,000 |
| Regulatory affairs manager | $81,000 |
| Rehabilitation counselor | $44,0000 |
| Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors | $53,000 |
This data provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.
Scholarships and financial aid
The Department of Psychology offers the Rodney Clark Memorial Fund for Excellence in Undergraduate Education for students looking to lead research.
Learn more about our available scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
Learn more about the B.A. in Psychology at Wayne State University
Tailor your degree to suit your limitless career goals with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Wayne State University. Whether through mentorships at mental health clinics or advanced research in preparation for graduate study, we're here to help you unlock your potential.