Walden University

What you'll study

The programme covers core areas of psychological science and applied practice, emphasising research literacy, ethical decision-making and culturally competent care. Students study developmental, social, cognitive and biological bases of behaviour alongside specialised topics such as abnormal psychology and lifespan development.

• Introduction to Psychology — foundational concepts and major perspectives in psychology.
• Research Methods in Psychology — study design, qualitative and quantitative methods, ethics in research.
• Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences — descriptive and inferential statistics commonly used in psychological research.
• Developmental Psychology — human growth and development across the lifespan.
• Social and Cognitive Psychology — social influence, cognition, perception and decision-making.
• Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology — diagnostic frameworks and major psychological disorders.
• Professional and Ethical Issues — legal, ethical and cultural considerations in practice and research.
• Applied Learning Experiences — practicum or fieldwork options and a capstone or integrative project that demonstrates applied knowledge.

Students may also choose elective clusters or concentrations (subject to availability) that focus on areas such as human services, industrial-organisational topics, or health psychology. The curriculum emphasises critical thinking, communication and research skills to support either workforce entry or progression to graduate study.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised secondary school completion credential (for example, a high school diploma or equivalent). Walden accepts transfer credit from prior college-level study and awards credit for eligible prior learning assessments; transfer policies and accepted credit amounts vary. Mature or returning learners without recent academic history may be considered through review of work experience and other evidence of readiness. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent documentation when the primary language of prior instruction was not English. Specific admissions criteria and required documentation are provided by the university and should be checked with admissions staff.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology prepares graduates for a range of entry-level roles in human services, community and social care, education support, and business settings. Common positions held by graduates include:

• Case manager or support worker in community and social service agencies
• Behavioural health technician or rehabilitation assistant
• Human resources assistant or talent support roles
• Research assistant or programme coordinator in non-profit and research settings
• Youth worker, outreach worker or probation support roles

Graduates frequently continue to postgraduate study (master’s or doctoral programmes) if they wish to become licensed psychologists, counsellors or advanced practitioners; licensure for clinical roles typically requires graduate-level education and supervised clinical hours.

Why study at Walden University

Walden offers a flexible online delivery model suited to working adults and students with other commitments, enabling study from different locations and on varied schedules. The university emphasises applied learning with opportunities for field placements, practicum experiences and a capstone that integrates research and practice. Walden is accredited by a recognised regional accrediting body, and the programme is designed to develop practical skills employers seek—such as research literacy, communication and ethical decision-making. Students also have access to academic support services, career resources and a network of faculty with professional experience in psychology and related fields.