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Psychological Sciences Major

Bachelor of Arts

With a psychological sciences degree, you’ll study how the human mind works—and why people behave as they do.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.A. in Psychological Sciences major, you’ll explore the intricacies of the human mind and behavior, merge Christian perspectives with modern psychological methods, and apply them to everyday life. You’ll examine how the principles you learn in class apply to real situations—and how to relate your study and work to your faith. As you conduct research with professors and gain hands-on experience through an internship, you’ll develop your skills and expertise to reach your full potential and go into the world to serve.

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Why should I study psychological sciences at Bethel?

  • Faith-fueled learning
    Ground your psychological sciences education in Christian values and ethics, preparing you to serve with compassion and integrity.

  • Faculty-mentored research
    Engage in research with faculty members. You'll have opportunities to connect with faculty and assist in their research. Several psychology faculty and student teams have earned the prestigious Edgren Scholars award, a stipend to complete a summer research project.

  • Personalized education
    You can also enhance your undergraduate experience with optional certificates in addiction studies or alcohol and drug counseling, or you can pursue a second degree or minor to fit your career goals.

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Interested in learning more about Bethel's psychological sciences major?

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Connect with a counselor

They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.

Find your counselor

Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

You’ll develop a strong base of psychological sciences knowledge and comprehensive research and lab skills that are essential for success in your career.

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A strong base in psychology

As you develop a strong foundation in the theory and history of psychology, you’ll gain insights into the terms and principles of cognition and behavior that shape human experiences.

Research and data interpretation

You’ll learn strong research techniques, experimental design, and data and statistical analysis. You'll be equipped to conduct laboratory and academic research, making meaningful connections between the environment and the individual psyche.

Developmental and behavioral analysis

Deepen your knowledge in developmental psychology and behavioral analysis. Understand how people grow and change over time, and apply this understanding to support and empower others.

Neuroscience perspectives

You’ll explore the biological basis of mental processes and behavior, which will enhance your ability to explore these behaviors from a comprehensive viewpoint.

Counseling and communication skills.

Hone your counseling skills, along with written and verbal communication, enabling you to connect with and support individuals in meaningful ways.

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Academic plans

Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.

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Learning opportunities

What experiences will I have?

Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, study abroad, apply what you’ve learned, and gain. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Study abroad

Study around the world through several potential trips over a full semester, January session, spring break, and summer. And you can spend a January session in Europe learning about the European Pioneers in Psychology.

Internships

You’ll apply what you’ve learned and gain valuable experience by participating in a required internship at a local counseling practice, hospital, ministry, or other setting related to your interests.

Student organizations

Participate in Psych Club with your peers, incorporating classroom learning with relevant social and cultural experiences and activities.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a psychology degree?

With a B.A. in Psychological Sciences from Bethel, you’ll be equipped for diverse career paths and you’ll be prepared to pursue graduate school opportunities.

Counseling and therapy

You'll be prepared for roles as a counselor and behavior therapist, providing vital support and guidance to individuals and families. You’ll be equipped to address a wide range of emotional and mental health issues.

Graduate school

Your degree will prepare you to continue your education and specialize. You can pursue graduate degrees in counseling, marriage and family therapy, clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and more.

Educational and teaching

Use your skills to support student development and educational environments. You can pursue a career as a school psychologist, psychology professor, or even a school administrator.

Organizational psychology

Utilize psychological principles to enhance workplace dynamics, employee satisfaction, and organizational effectiveness across a variety of industries.

Healthcare professions

You’ll be prepared for medical school and can follow your passions into a healthcare career. Our graduates work as physicians, dentists, physical therapists, speech pathologists, clinical neuropsychologists, and more.

Research and applied psychology

Apply your knowledge of psychology to conduct research, analyze data, and implement psychological principles in organizational and clinical settings. You can work as a statistician, organizational psychologist, or clinical neuropsychologist.

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Start your journey

Explore Bethel for yourself

Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.

Schedule a visit

Faculty mentors

Meet your professors

You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.

Department of Psychology


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 311

Contact

Angela Sabates

Angela Sabates

Angela Sabates

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Rachel Anderson

Rachel Anderson

Associate Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Sherryse Corrow

Sherryse Corrow

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Amy Evans

Amy Evans

Associate Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Joel Frederickson

Joel Frederickson

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Ruth Nelson

Ruth Nelson

Professor of Psychology

Bio >

Gretchen Wrobel

Gretchen Wrobel

University Professor of Psychology

Bio >

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Ryan Hovis

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

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Brenna Keefe

Adjunct Instructor of Human Services

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Amy Bianchi-Ross

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

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Nicole Centanni

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

Kasey Erickson

Kasey Erickson

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

Krystal Humphreys

Krystal Humphreys

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

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Alicia Ochs

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

Kathlene Scholljegerdes

Kathlene Scholljegerdes

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

Bio >

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Bailey Thompson

Adjunct Instructor of Psychology

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Linde Getahun

Associate Professor of Psychology Emerita

Bio >

Andy Johnson

Andy Johnson

Associate Professor of Psychology Emeritus

Bio >

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Lucie Johnson

Professor of Psychology Emerita

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James Koch

Professor of Psychology Emeritus

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Jason Li

Jason Li

Professor of Psychology Emeritus

Bio >

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Steven McNeel

Professor of Psychology Emeritus

Bio >

Katherine Nevins

Katherine Nevins

Professor of Psychology Emerita

Bio >

Carole Young

Carole Young

Dean of Natural and Behavioral Sciences and Professor of Psychology Emerita

Bio >

Ben K Lim

Ben K Lim

Professor of Marital and Family Therapy Emeritus

Bio >

Up to 50%

recent psychology alumni went on to graduate school

97%

recent psychology graduates are employed

Student Support

Your support team

At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.

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Career coaching and preparation

A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.

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Academic advising

No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.

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Tutoring and academic support

The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.

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Faith formation

As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.

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Accessible education

Tuition and financial aid

We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.

Estimate your cost today

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Become A Bethel Student

Apply now

You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.

Start your application

Find your fit

Explore related programs

Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.

Explore the full lists:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements