Psychology

Associate in Arts
Transfer Degree
Cost
$11,590*

Understand the foundations of behavior


Psychology is the scientific study of human thinking and behavior, including brain function and development. Your coursework at CLC puts you on the path to understanding how. Use your critical thinking skills, empathy and social awareness for careers in health care, education, legal fields, public affairs, human services, business and more.

Additionally, you learn about the scientific method of investigation, build on written and oral communication skills and learn to apply theory and research to everyday experiences.

What can you do with an Associate Degree in Psychology?

A degree in Psychology can be very versatile. Maximize your career trajectory by working with an Academic Success Advisor who recommends the best way to transfer to your preferred university. An Associate in Art (A.A.) degree in Psychology prepares you for a variety of bachelor’s programs—not just psychology.

Former students have moved on to master’s and doctoral programs in a variety of fields, including mental health, research and teaching. Your desired role will likely require additional education.

Highlights

  • 100% Online

    Can be completed 100% online.

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Transfer Degree

    Save on your first 2 years and transfer your credits to the 4-year school of your choice.

  • Program Length: 2 Years

    Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

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Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) helps you

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options and degree requirements, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    ENG 121

    ENG 121 English Composition I

    Class Description

    This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
         		3
    MTH 142

    MTH 142 General Education Statistics

    Class Description

    This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics will include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least ?squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values. Note: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details. Credit will not be given in MTH 142 to those with prior credit in MTH 222. This course does not meet the math requirement in the Associate of Engineering Science, but may be used as elective credits. Prerequisite(s): MTH 105 or MTH 108 or higher level math course (C or better) -or- two years of approved high school algebra (C or better) and Basic Algebra Readiness -or- an appropriate score on the CLC Math Placement Test, Math ACT, or Math SAT.
         		3
    PSY 121

    PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

    Class Description

    This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
         		3
    ART 121

    ART 121 Introduction to Art

    Class Description

    This course will introduce students to an appreciation of the visual arts through an intercultural, social/historical approach. The course will also emphasize the nature of the creative process, integrating a study of the conceptual principles, with methods and materials which influence artistic critical thinking, problem solving, exploration, and discovery. Note: A museum visit will be required during the semester at student expense. See course syllabus for approximate cost.
         		3
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ENG 121
      Course Title

      ENG 121 English Composition I

      Class Description

      This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MTH 142
      Course Title

      MTH 142 General Education Statistics

      Class Description

      This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics will include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least ?squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values. Note: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details. Credit will not be given in MTH 142 to those with prior credit in MTH 222. This course does not meet the math requirement in the Associate of Engineering Science, but may be used as elective credits. Prerequisite(s): MTH 105 or MTH 108 or higher level math course (C or better) -or- two years of approved high school algebra (C or better) and Basic Algebra Readiness -or- an appropriate score on the CLC Math Placement Test, Math ACT, or Math SAT.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 121
      Course Title

      PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

      Class Description

      This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ART 121
      Course Title

      ART 121 Introduction to Art

      Class Description

      This course will introduce students to an appreciation of the visual arts through an intercultural, social/historical approach. The course will also emphasize the nature of the creative process, integrating a study of the conceptual principles, with methods and materials which influence artistic critical thinking, problem solving, exploration, and discovery. Note: A museum visit will be required during the semester at student expense. See course syllabus for approximate cost.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

    Course options: Students can choose other general education math electives instead of MTH 142. Students also can choose other courses instead of ART 121.

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    ENG 122

    ENG 122 English Composition II

    Class Description

    This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.
         		3
    BIO 161

    BIO 161 General Biology I

    Class Description

    This course introduces general biological principles of life processes common to all organisms. Topics covered include the nature of life, unifying themes underlying biology, chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, energetics, cell reproduction, concepts of genetics and inheritance patterns, molecular genetics, and biotechnology. This course is the first semester of a two semester sequence intended for biology majors and students seeking careers in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or veterinary medicine. NOTE: Knowledge of chemistry is helpful.
         		4
    ANT 221

    ANT 221 Cultural Anthropology

    Class Description

    This course is a study of the nature and development of culture. The economic, political, religious and social organizations of selected human groups (with an emphasis on non-Western and underrepresented groups) are examined, compared and evaluated. It explores the cultural determinations of individual human behavior and means of adaptation.
         		3
    PHI 121

    PHI 121 Introduction to Philosophy

    Class Description

    This course discusses the ideas of major philosophers concerning questions of human knowledge, moral values, political and social philosophy, and identity. Students are encouraged to think through their own theories about these important topics. Students explore philosophical issues focused on human identity, human nature, and the human condition at the intersections of contemporary social issues.
         		3
    PSY 223

    PSY 223 Abnormal Psychology

    Class Description

    This course provides a systematic presentation of the concepts related to mental health disorders with specific emphasis given to empirical research, diagnostic criteria, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, theoretical perspectives, etiology, treatment, and legal and ethical responsibilities.
         		3
    • Course Code ENG 122
      Course Title

      ENG 122 English Composition II

      Class Description

      This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BIO 161
      Course Title

      BIO 161 General Biology I

      Class Description

      This course introduces general biological principles of life processes common to all organisms. Topics covered include the nature of life, unifying themes underlying biology, chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, energetics, cell reproduction, concepts of genetics and inheritance patterns, molecular genetics, and biotechnology. This course is the first semester of a two semester sequence intended for biology majors and students seeking careers in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or veterinary medicine. NOTE: Knowledge of chemistry is helpful.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ANT 221
      Course Title

      ANT 221 Cultural Anthropology

      Class Description

      This course is a study of the nature and development of culture. The economic, political, religious and social organizations of selected human groups (with an emphasis on non-Western and underrepresented groups) are examined, compared and evaluated. It explores the cultural determinations of individual human behavior and means of adaptation.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PHI 121
      Course Title

      PHI 121 Introduction to Philosophy

      Class Description

      This course discusses the ideas of major philosophers concerning questions of human knowledge, moral values, political and social philosophy, and identity. Students are encouraged to think through their own theories about these important topics. Students explore philosophical issues focused on human identity, human nature, and the human condition at the intersections of contemporary social issues.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 223
      Course Title

      PSY 223 Abnormal Psychology

      Class Description

      This course provides a systematic presentation of the concepts related to mental health disorders with specific emphasis given to empirical research, diagnostic criteria, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, theoretical perspectives, etiology, treatment, and legal and ethical responsibilities.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

    Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of BIO 161, ANT 221 and PHI 121.

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CMM 121

    CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

    Class Description

    For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
         		3
    GEG 121

    GEG 121 Physical Geography

    Class Description

    This introductory physical science course examines the processes and agents that help to shape and change the environment in which humans live. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships that exist between the earth's heat and energy systems and the weather, climate, soils, vegetation, streams, oceans, landforms, and human activities.
         		3
    PSY 222

    PSY 222 Child Growth and Development

    Class Description

    This course is designed to familiarize students with the physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development of the child from conception through adolescence in cultural context. Topics of discussion include genes and heredity; prenatal development and birth; brain development; motor, sensory, and perceptual development; cognitive and memory changes; intelligence and language development; development of the self and identity; attachment and social relationships; and moral development. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships among the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and the mutual influences of these domains on development. Several theories of child development and methods of studying development are introduced.
         		3
    PSY 225

    PSY 225 Social Psychology

    Class Description

    This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of individuals thinking, feeling, and behavior within their social environments. This course includes, but is not limited to: research methods, attitude formation and change, social cognition, interpersonal relations, group processes, and social influence.
         		3
    JPN 121

    JPN 121 Beginning Japanese I

    Class Description

    This course develops basic skills in pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening, comprehension, and oral and written communication within the context of Japanese culture.
         		4
    • Course Code CMM 121
      Course Title

      CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

      Class Description

      For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code GEG 121
      Course Title

      GEG 121 Physical Geography

      Class Description

      This introductory physical science course examines the processes and agents that help to shape and change the environment in which humans live. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships that exist between the earth's heat and energy systems and the weather, climate, soils, vegetation, streams, oceans, landforms, and human activities.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 222
      Course Title

      PSY 222 Child Growth and Development

      Class Description

      This course is designed to familiarize students with the physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development of the child from conception through adolescence in cultural context. Topics of discussion include genes and heredity; prenatal development and birth; brain development; motor, sensory, and perceptual development; cognitive and memory changes; intelligence and language development; development of the self and identity; attachment and social relationships; and moral development. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships among the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and the mutual influences of these domains on development. Several theories of child development and methods of studying development are introduced.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 225
      Course Title

      PSY 225 Social Psychology

      Class Description

      This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of individuals thinking, feeling, and behavior within their social environments. This course includes, but is not limited to: research methods, attitude formation and change, social cognition, interpersonal relations, group processes, and social influence.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code JPN 121
      Course Title

      JPN 121 Beginning Japanese I

      Class Description

      This course develops basic skills in pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening, comprehension, and oral and written communication within the context of Japanese culture.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

    Course options: Students can choose other physical sciences courses instead of GEG 121. Students also can choose other world language courses instead of JPN 121.

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HUM 127

    HUM 127 Critical Thinking

    Class Description

    Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
         		3
    SOC 222

    SOC 222 Social Problems

    Class Description

    This course introduces students to sociological perspectives on contemporary social problems. It examines competing definitions of social problems and conceptualizations of how social problems develop over time. The major research methods and theoretical traditions sociologists use to study social problems are presented. The course also analyzes research about contemporary social problems and evaluates social policies aimed at combating these problems.
         		3
    PSY 224

    PSY 224 Theories of Personality

    Class Description

    This course is designed to present the student with a survey of the major theories of personality. Theorists will be studied according to the following categories: 1) psychoanalytic; 2) humanistic and existential; 3) biological; 4) trait; 5) behavioral; 6) cognitive. Emerging perspectives will also be addressed. Several case studies will be presented for analysis.
         		3
    PSY 227

    PSY 227 Psychology of Gender

    Class Description

    This course will examine the psychological perspectives on gender. Using empirical research from all areas of psychology, the course will explore the major concepts, theories, and research methods as they relate to gender development across the lifespan. Included is a review of how gender is perceived in relationships, work, education, health, the justice system, and the media. Lastly, the intersectionality of gender with sexual orientation, class, race, religion, ability, and age will be discussed. PSY 227 and GXS 227 are cross-listed.
         		3
    JPN 122

    JPN 122 Beginning Japanese II

    Class Description

    This course continues to develop the basic skills introduced in JPN 121: pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing of Kana and Kanji, listening comprehension, and oral and written communication within the context of Japanese culture.
         		4
    • Course Code HUM 127
      Course Title

      HUM 127 Critical Thinking

      Class Description

      Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code SOC 222
      Course Title

      SOC 222 Social Problems

      Class Description

      This course introduces students to sociological perspectives on contemporary social problems. It examines competing definitions of social problems and conceptualizations of how social problems develop over time. The major research methods and theoretical traditions sociologists use to study social problems are presented. The course also analyzes research about contemporary social problems and evaluates social policies aimed at combating these problems.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 224
      Course Title

      PSY 224 Theories of Personality

      Class Description

      This course is designed to present the student with a survey of the major theories of personality. Theorists will be studied according to the following categories: 1) psychoanalytic; 2) humanistic and existential; 3) biological; 4) trait; 5) behavioral; 6) cognitive. Emerging perspectives will also be addressed. Several case studies will be presented for analysis.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PSY 227
      Course Title

      PSY 227 Psychology of Gender

      Class Description

      This course will examine the psychological perspectives on gender. Using empirical research from all areas of psychology, the course will explore the major concepts, theories, and research methods as they relate to gender development across the lifespan. Included is a review of how gender is perceived in relationships, work, education, health, the justice system, and the media. Lastly, the intersectionality of gender with sexual orientation, class, race, religion, ability, and age will be discussed. PSY 227 and GXS 227 are cross-listed.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code JPN 122
      Course Title

      JPN 122 Beginning Japanese II

      Class Description

      This course continues to develop the basic skills introduced in JPN 121: pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing of Kana and Kanji, listening comprehension, and oral and written communication within the context of Japanese culture.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

    Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of HUM 127 and SOC 222. Students can choose other concentration electives instead of PSY 224 and PSY 227. Students also can choose other world language courses instead of JPN 122.

Total Credit Hours

62

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.


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Our Guaranteed Transfer Partnerships (GTAs) with a select number of schools guarantee admission to students who meet specific criteria.


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Psychology at CLC

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An Associate in Arts in Psychology is just one possible way to study education and social sciences. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

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