B.A. in Psychology (Online)

Why Study Psychology at Rivier?

In Rivier’s online psychology degree program, you will develop strong communication and analytical skills while gaining an in-depth understanding of the scientific study of human behavior, both individually and within society.

This bachelor’s degree program takes place in a convenient, online learning environment, allowing you to complete your undergraduate education and maintain your current work and personal schedule. Multiple term starts, a generous transfer credit policy, and competitive tuition rates are all designed to help you start and finish faster.

In this program, you will:

• Study the science of human behavior and mental processes to gain a greater understanding of how the body and mind work
• Combine coursework with psychological research studies to bring classroom learning to life
• Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Become an effective communicator and collaborator

Specialized study topics include drugs and behaviors, counseling theories and practices, human sexuality, social psychology, and more.

Addiction Studies Track

Select the addiction studies track and help improve the quality of life of those suffering from substance misuse, addiction, alcoholism, and drug dependence. With a strong background in theory, research, and current perspectives on prevention and treatment, the psychology degree with a track in addiction studies is designed to address the challenges associated with these disorders and educate students preparing for careers in counseling, recovery services, advocacy, and public health.

Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC)

Program graduates will be workforce ready and well-positioned for success in the competitive job market and for graduate study at the master’s and doctoral levels. This program is designed to meet the educational requirements necessary for Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) licensure. After the completion of the B.A. degree, licensure generally requires passing an exam, completing a case study, and documenting 4,000 hours of post-baccalaureate supervised counseling in the area of SUD. LADC licensing requirements vary by state.

Direct Pathway to Become a Licensed Counselor at Rivier

Rivier’s Alumni Advantage Program provides you the pathway to become a licensed counselor. We are offering B.A. in Psychology and B.S. in Human Services graduates of Rivier an alumni scholarship that will cover the cost of your first graduate course in the Master of Clinical Mental Health or Master of Education in School Counseling online programs. The scholarship will support your educational journey to reach your career goals and provide the opportunity to complete your education at Rivier fully online and at your own pace with individualized attention and faculty support.

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Learning Outcomes

After completing this online Psychology degree, you will:

• Demonstrate understanding of and apply the major content domains, concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology;
• Apply scientific methodology and information literacy skills to understand psychological concepts, problem solve, and design and conduct research;
• Use critical and creative thinking and the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes;
• Weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect values that are the underpinnings of psychology as a discipline;
• Demonstrate technological literacy and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes;
• Communicate effectively in a variety of formats;
• Understand and value the complexity of sociocultural and international diversity and a commitment to social justice;
• Develop insight into one’s own and others’ behavior and mental processes and apply effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement, project management, and teamwork;
• Demonstrate a commitment to building community at local, national, and global levels;
• Implement their psychology knowledge, skills, and values in a variety of occupational settings or in advanced graduate school programs.

Psychology Curriculum

To earn the online B.A. in Psychology degree, you must complete 120 total credits, including 40 credits from major-specific courses. You may also choose to complete a track in addiction studies to better prepare for specific career paths.

Learning online with Rivier allows you to complete your degree at your pace while maintaining your full-time professional and personal responsibilities. You may transfer up to 90 credits into this degree program to complete your undergraduate education even faster.

Core courses include:

• PSY 101 – General Psychology
• PSY 206 – Experimental Psychology
• PSY 404 – Sensation and Perception
• PSY 407 – Introduction to Neuroscience

What Career Path Will You Choose?

Explore Professional Opportunities in Psychology

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the social science field to grow 7% by 2031, creating 98,700 new jobs. As a graduate of the online B.A. in Psychology degree, you’ll have the credential to pursue Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) licensure. Additionally, you’ll graduate with the expert skills required for in-demand careers that make a difference, including:

• Social services case manager: $42,010 per year
• Residential counselor: $41,890 per year
• Probation officer: $60,250 per year
• Substance use-disorder counselor: $48,520 per year