Apr 26, 2024  
2013-2014 APU Catalog 
    
2013-2014 APU Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Counseling Psychology, B.A.


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The B.A. in Counseling Psychology provides students with the opportunity to explore and understand the art and science of being human. The philosophical emphasis of the program is on positive psychology as applied to counseling. The program provides you with a solid foundation of knowledge blended with active/experiential learning inside and outside the classroom. The curriculum allows you to choose courses from a menu format to explore your own areas of interest in Counseling Psychology. Possibilities for creative concentrations might include, but are not limited to, ecopsychology and outdoor therapy, developmental studies, and arts therapy. We challenge and foster all of our majors to grow both personally and professionally, to be leaders in the field, and to actively contribute to a better community and world. Our program of study provides you with a theoretical and applied foundation for launching you into a counseling career, further graduate work, and lifelong learning.

As you pursue your own path of study, our goals are for you to explore the following areas of study:

  • Personal Growth
  • Counseling
  • Applied Psychology
  • Advanced Theory

As a graduate, you will earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with demonstrated achievement in APU’s Essential Competencies:  Effective Communication; Critical Thinking; Cultural & Historical Perspective; Scientific Inquiry; and Ethical Engagement.

Foundational Studies (32-40 credits)


  • EC Written Communication** (WRIT 20100) (4)
  • EC Presentation & Media Literacy (from 10000-20000 level COMM) (3-4)
  • CT Critical Thinking (from 10000-20000 level CRIT) (3-4)
  • CT Computation** (MT 10100, BAM 10500, or higher placement) (3-4)
  • CH Intellectual Traditions (from 10000-20000 level PH/HI) (4)
  • CH Creative Endeavors (from 10000-20000 level HUM) (4)
  • CH Intercultural & Spiritual Understandings (from 10000-20000 level RS/CS) (3-4)
  • SI Biological/Physical Scientific Inquiry (from 10000-20000 level SC w/ lab) (4)
  • SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry (various) (3-4)
  • EE Social Responsibility (LS 10200) (2)
  • EE Personal Responsibility (from 10000-20000 OS/PE or BAM 20400) (1-2)

                  [†  Foundational Studies requirement satisfied by Major Studies]

                  [ **  Minimum grade of ‘C’ (defined as C+, C, C-) must be earned]

Major Studies (54 credits)


Self-Determined Studies (varies)


  • Students are encouraged to expand upon one Counseling Psychology elective areas, develop a concentration, take a minor, or undertake an Eco League exchange to distinguish their programs of study.

Minimum Graduation Credit Requirement: 128


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