Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Overview

Grow into a courageous ambassador for Christ prepared to serve wherever the Lord calls you.

The Bachelor of Science in Psychology program will equip students to holistically improve the lives of others through psychology. This program covers more than just learning to diagnose and treat mental illness. Students will practice helping patients with regard to psychology, sociology, biology, and spirituality. Learn to understand psychology from a biblical perspective so you can make an eternal impact wherever you go.

Grace Christian University intends that the information from this page complies with various state, federal, and accreditation requirements. 

0MONTHS*
0Credit hours
0Week Courses
APRIL0Start Date

* Taking one five-week, three-credit course at a time on a year-round rotation, students typically complete 9-10 courses per year.  Depending on the student’s transfer credit status, completing the 120-credit B.S. degree generally takes four years.

Admission REQUIREMENTS
TUITION COST
Common Careers
Benefits

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

You will need the following to gain admission to Grace Christian University:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Completed Application – It is free to apply. Apply here >

TUITION COST

Bachelor Programs – $470/credit hour
View our 2023-24 Online Tuition Costs >

Military Personnel (active duty, veterans, spouses, dependents 23 or under) – $250/credit hour
View our 2023-24 Online Military Tuition Costs >

Other Bachelor Program Fees

Resource fee (covers all textbooks and other resources required for Grace Online students) – $150 per 3-credit course

Graduation fee – $100

COMMON CAREERS

Common Careers include:

  • Counselor

  • Human Resources Director

  • Forensic Psychologist

  • Psychiatrist

  • Therapist

  • Social Worker

  • School Couselor

BENEFITS

Students in the Online Bachelor’s degree programs will be able to:

  • Attend classes on a flexible schedule that allows for work and family responsibilities
  • Expand career and ministry opportunities with a degree that opens doors
  • Obtain an affordable, high-quality education
  • Gain collaboration skills through working with classmates and professors
  • Achieve an educational goal
Bible

CLASSES ARE TAUGHT FROM A BIBLICAL FOUNDATION

Ministry

WE CARE ABOUT EACH STUDENT'S ETERNAL IMPACT

Financial Aid

LOW TUITION FOR A PRIVATE EDUCATION

Discover & Expand Your Calling From Anywhere

Every major at Grace Christian is focused on intertwining spiritual and academic growth. The school aims to develop passionate servants of Jesus that emphasize the integration of character transformation, ministry experience, and biblical truth.

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Curriculum

Arts & Sciences Core – 30 Credits

GEN 111 – Intro to Online Studies

Credit Hours: 3

Focuses on the foundational knowledge, skills, and character development required to succeed in the digital classroom and as a follower of Jesus Christ. The digital age of online learning has transformed higher education. The pervasive reach of the Internet has expanded the boundaries of the traditional classroom and created new opportunities for students to realize their goal of attaining a college degree. In addition to the practical skills and knowledge required to succeed in the online learning environment, the need for graduates who live out the values consistent with a Christlike character, in their homes, workplaces, and society has never been more necessary than today.

ENG 105 – Introduction to College Writing

Credit Hours: 3

Writing is an important skill for academic, ministry, and vocational success. This course focuses on developing writing skills, providing students opportunities to break down the writing process. Students will learn how to create strong thesis statements to drive an academic paper. They will learn how to craft introductory and concluding paragraphs, build the body of a paper, consider their audience, and improve writing skills to communicate more effectively. They will develop basic skills in APA formatting and citations. Students will also work on refreshing grammar skills.

COM 140 – Life Communication

Credit Hours: 3

Life Communication prompts students to identify their passion and excitement to use the gift of speech for good. By working through the process of topic selection, research, and speech organization, students will build confidence in serving others with their communication. In Life Communication, students will be encouraged to know their story, challenged to live their story, and empowered to tell their story.

COM 290 – Professional Communication

Credit Hours: 3

By exploring the fundamental concepts, principles, and skills needed for effective communication, student are preparing for connections in a global world. Emphasis will be given to communication concepts, skillful writing, professional interviewing, organized informational presentations, and cultural intelligence in the workplace. Prerequisites: COM 140, ENG 105

ENG 300 – College Writing and Research

Credit Hours: 3

Students will learn the importance of using credible sources and building strong arguments. Students will develop thesis statements, introductions and conclusions, consider audience and purpose, and integrate credible and scholarly sources using APA formatting. They will develop writing skills to help in academic courses, business pursuits, ministry, as well as other career positions.

HST 231 – World Civilization

Credit Hours: 3

Provides students with skills in historical research and analysis, a chronological understanding and factual knowledge spanning from the dawn of civilization to 1700. Emphasis is placed on the origins and achievements of the core civilizations of Asia, Africa, America, and Greco– Roman civilizations. In addition, Christian, Islamic and Byzantine cultures will be studied. The ultimate focus will be to provide students with a historical, factual, cultural, and geographical knowledge of ancient history and its relationship to the Bible. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze significant political, socioeconomic, and cultural developments up to the early modern world civilizations within the interrelations of societies and cultures.

PHL 133 – Philosophy and Worldview

Credit Hours: 3

Addresses the fact that our culture is confronted with a vast assortment of differing philosophies and worldviews; each claiming to be true. Focus is provided to understand and evaluate these various belief systems in an increasingly pluralistic society. Main ideas of eight different worldviews will be explored while the student develops and expresses a personal worldview. Topics will center around the nature of God, reality, nature of man, death, truth, morality, and the meaning of life. The primary purpose of this course is to challenge students to examine the timeless truths of Christianity.

SOC 243 – Introduction to Cultural Diversity

Credit Hours: 3

An exploration of cultural diversity and multiculturalism from a Christian faith perspective. This course provides a process to understand and practice cultural diversity competence. It is designed to initiate and provide ongoing preparation for effective interaction with everyone in our culturally diverse world. Growth in these skills equips individuals with the social graces needed to form bonds of mutual trust that will bridge the differences that ordinarily divide people.

SCI 220 – Introduction to Environmental Science

Credit Hours: 3

Provides a general understanding of environmental science, while exploring Provides a general understanding of environmental science, while exploring the natural world and the resources it provides. The study of environmental science is approached with an understanding of the responsibilities of human beings to practice wise stewardship of God’s creation. Topics include, but are not limited to, exploration of environmental issues, the relations between living and nonliving things, human responsibility for the environment and the earth’s resources now and in the future.

Elective – Arts and Sciences Elective

Credit Hours: 3

Optional Lower Level Electives – 12 Credits

May also be completed as part of an AA degree.

CJS 220 – Introduction to Legal Studies*

Credit Hours: 3

Introduction to Legal Studies provides a broad understanding of the American legal system and how the law impacts our society. The course reviews the court systems, and how laws are made, enforced, interpreted, and applied. Students will be exposed to an overview of the fundamentals of law in several areas including ethics and professional responsibility, civil litigation, tort law, contract law, administrative law, family law, constitutional law, criminal law, criminal procedure, property law, evidence and other legal matters. This course also provides a hands–on application of legal research, legal writing, and case briefing.

SOC 251 – Principles of Sociology*

Credit Hours: 3

A study of contemporary Western society. The emphasis is on culture, socialization, group life, social processes and social change.

CJS 251 – Introduction to Criminal Justice

Credit Hours: 3

Introduction to Criminal Justice focuses on the various processing stages, practices, and personnel in the criminal justice system. This course examines the problem of crime in American society. Both historical and contemporary components of the system, including the police, the courts, and correctional agencies are explored. This course is designed to provide the student with a foundational, broad-based understanding of both the effects of crime upon communities, as well the criminal justice system response to crime in our contemporary society through the lens of a Christian Worldview.

SOC 255 – Introduction to Human Services

Credit Hours: 3

This course explores the historical context and the current structure of the Human Services field. Students will be exposed to case management and group facilitation as well as the primary intervention strategies used in human services. The arenas involving special populations served in the Human Services profession will be examined, such as addictions, mental health, the developmentally disabled, and the homeless. Topics include values and ethical dilemmas, the social welfare system, diversity, program planning, organizing and changing systems, legal issues and the need to stay current as a human services professional.

CAP 298 – A.A. Capstone

Credit Hours: 3

The AA Capstone course is an integrative learning experience bringing together all of the learning presented in the degree program. Each student will work individually, using his/her focus of study to respond to assignments. Assignments include broad questions/concerns which students can answer with the use of learning from his/her focus of study, utilizing texts, peer reviewed articles, etc. This will also provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate to one another their ability to communicate ideas related to their field of study. Above all, the assignments will incorporate a biblical perspective as the overlying factor in any of these foci.

* Your choice of CJS 220 – Introduction to Legal Studies or SOC 251 – Principles of Sociology.

Bible & Theology Core – 30 Credits

BIB 141 – Old Testament

Credit Hours: 3

A survey of Old Testament literature in its historical setting. Attention is given to outstanding persons, events, and theological emphases.

BIB 143 – New Testament

Credit Hours: 3

A survey of New Testament literature including a study of its historical settings, literary type, and main theological themes. Attention will also be given to outstanding persons, events, and major teachings.

THE 254 – Introduction to Dispensational Theology

Credit Hours: 3

Provides an overview of the basic tenets of Dispensational Theology. Included is a study of foundational passages in the Bible, a review of the historical development, as well as how a dispensational perspective shapes the study of Scripture. Special consideration will be given to the mid–Acts dispensational views of Grace Christian University.

THE 256 – Christian Theology I

Credit Hours: 3

A survey of foundational doctrines of systematic theology including Bibliology, Theology Proper (God), Christology (Christ) and Pneumatology (Holy Spirit). It will include an overview of the mid–Acts dispensational perspective of theology held by the institution. The course also encourages the practical integration of these doctrines in the life and service of the Christian.

BIB 442 – Letters of Paul

Credit Hours: 3

Examines the background and ministry of Paul, as well as the origin and purpose of each of the Pauline epistles in the context of the development of his ministry. The study will include an analysis and synthesis of major Pauline themes, including the Pauline concept of the church and its mission.

LEA 372 – Organizational Leadership

Credit Hours: 3

Provides an overview of organizational leadership from a biblical, theoreticaland practical point of view. Includes study of intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships within organizations, organizational structure and processes, and organizational culture.

MIN 370 – Spiritual Formation

Credit Hours: 3

Emphasizes the practical outworking of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Special consideration will be given to how the Holy Spirit equips God’s people for service, a development of a plan for lifelong spiritual growth, and appreciation for the historic spiritual disciplines.

THE 454 – Knowing God

Credit Hours: 3

Provides an in–depth study of Theology Proper, the study of God the Father. Included with this will be understanding the Trinity doctrine, with an emphasis on biblical, historical and theological dimensions of knowing God as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

THE 332 – Christian Ethics

Credit Hours: 3

Lays the foundation for a Christian response to ethical issues arising in 21st Century Western culture. Attention is given to the biblical foundation of Christian personal and social ethics, the history of ethics, ethical decision–making, and personal character development. Application of these topics will be made to a range of contemporary issues.

THE 453 – Christian Theology II

Credit Hours: 3

An in–depth study of the doctrines of systematic theology, including Anthropology (Man), Hamartiology (Sin), Soteriology (Salvation and the Atonement), Angelology (Angels), Ecclesiology (Church) and Eschatology (End Times). These doctrines will be considered from the mid–Acts dispensational view of theology held by Grace Christian University. The course also encourages the practical integration of these doctrines in the life and service of the Christian.

Psychology Major Requirements – 36 Credits

PSY 201 – Introduction to Psychology*

Credit Hours: 3

A general survey of the discipline of psychology. Topics covered will include thinking critically, neuroscience, life span development, sensation and perception, learning, memory, thinking/ language/intelligence, personality, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Attention will be given to the relationship between Psychology and Christianity with selected application for life and ministry.

SOC 251 – Principles of Sociology*

Credit Hours: 3

A study of contemporary Western society. The emphasis is on culture, socialization, group life, social processes and social change.

PSY 215 – Psychology of Leadership

Credit Hours: 3

Reviews the psychological and social processes that characterize effective leaders. Students will learn about leadership in relationship to psychological exchanges between leaders and followers, and situations/behaviors that make some people more effective leaders than others. Some key factors that will be studied include psychological theories related to leadership, importance of teamwork, role of power, motivation, role of emotional intelligence, expectations of leaders, and various factors affecting future leadership in the 21st century. All of this will be studied from a Christian perspective of servant leadership.

PSY 245 – Lifespan Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

Explores human development from conception through death, looking at human development using the bio–psycho–social model from a Christian worldview. It will be explored how we as humans share developmental similarities, yet are unique due to various factors such as temperament, personality, etc. Most importantly, new information will be learned on what students already know, confirming how we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” as image bearers of God.

PSY 325 – Social Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

Examines individual behaviors within the context of one’s society. It is a study of how people think, influence, and relate to one another. Components of the behaviors studied in this course include attitudes, beliefs, prejudices, aggression, leadership, altruism, conformity, attraction, persuasion, and stereotypes.

PSY 461 – Physiological Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

An introduction to physiological psychology in which students explore basic principles of brain structure and functional mechanisms, including the role of neurons and neurochemistry. The interrelationship between observable physiological function and psychological behavior will be explored, including the behavioral consequences of damage to the physiological systems of the nervous system.

PSY 339 – Health Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

Examines psychological influences on health, well–being and longevity. This course evaluates the interplay between emotions, cognitions and behavioral factors that affect the onset, duration, recovery and prevention of chronic illness and disease over the life span. Topics will include depression and illness, traumatic injuries, neuromuscular diseases, cancer and chronic pain. Psychological treatment involving wellness behaviors, smoking cessation, substance abuse, proper nutrition and exercise are studied from the biopsychosocial model.

PSY 310 – Abnormal Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

Abnormal Psychology is designed to introduce students to models of thinking concerning mental health, mental disorders, and classification of mental disorders. The general goals are to expose students to the range of thinking within the field of mental health and to help students understand the complexities of modern day classification of various mental disorders. The students will be challenged to define what is considered “normal” and “abnormal.” They will become familiar with the bio–psycho–social–spiritual model of abnormal psychology, including the various theories developed and used to explain causes and treatments for mental disorders. Emphasis in this undergraduate class will focus on symptoms and causes, although treatment will certainly be included. All information will be compared and contrasted with a Christian worldview of the various theories and concepts of Abnormal Psychology.

PSY 456 – Survival Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

Focuses on the traits responsible for surviving in high–stress environments, including responding directly to high–threat encounters. Pro–survival behaviors are presented, including “the gift of fear” and balancing independence and leadership versus the need for teamwork collaboration in responding to stressful events. Organizational and professional psychological traits present in law enforcement, paramilitary organizations and high stress organizations are explored, as well as healthy lifestyle factors that lead to career effectiveness and avoiding burnout, such as managing vicarious trauma and promoting self–care.

PSY 383 – Studies in Research Statistics

Credit Hours: 3

An introduction to fundamental constructs of statistics as they are applied to research. Learners are introduced to core concepts, including: sampling, reliability and validity, descriptive and inferred statistics, hypothesis formulation, statistical significance, confidence intervals, interpretation of research, common statistical tests, and ANOVA computations. Learners will also become familiar with software for statistical computing and graphics.

PSY 349 – Theories and Foundations in Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

Includes analysis of several psychological theories regarding personality, simulated theory application, and personal application of theoretical concepts to their own lives. In this way, students should begin to develop a solid foundation for his/her own counseling skills and increase their self–understanding. Integrated with the understanding of theories will be compatibility of scriptural teaching.

MIN 457 – Counseling and Coaching Seminar

Credit Hours: 3

An integrated approach to counseling and coaching techniques in a variety of contexts. Provides an overview of basic skills, and develops a model for integration of skills with a faith-based approach to helping others. Students will practice skills and techniques within and outside of the classroom context.

PSY 498 – Program Capstone

Credit Hours: 3

A capstone course for Grace Online BS degrees. The purpose is for students to synthesize their learning and focus their ideas on a practical application of their ideas in a local community in the context of their degree program.

* Your choice of PSY 201 – Introduction to Psychology or SOC 251 – Principles of Sociology.

Undesignated Electives/Elective Track – 12-24 Credits

For all the details, look up your Major in the Program Information section of the Online Undergraduate Academic Catalog.

The Bible is Central

Grace Christian University is accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). ABHE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education and has designated Grace Christian University as an institute of higher education in which the Bible is central and the development of Christian life and ministry is essential.

Learn more at ABHE.ORG

ABHE logo and Higher Learning Commission logo
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APPLY ONLINE TO GRACE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

Fill out the application form, and someone will reach out to you within minutes. No entrance exam needed.

2

TALK TO YOUR
PERSONAL ADVISOR

You'll be assigned a personal advisor who will guide you. You may also contact our Enrollment Director.

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LIVE OUT
YOUR CALLING!

Feel confident and prepared to impact the world for Christ.

The Grace Christian Difference

ACADEMIC RIGOR

The program will teach and develop graduate-level research, writing, critical thinking, leadership and communication skills. Beginning with the Program Seminar, the program is designed to acclimate students to graduate-level work and prepare them for the kind of reading, writing, and thinking skills they will need for the remainder of the program.

STUDENT–CENTERED

The application of constructivist learning theory puts the responsibility of learning in the hands of the students. Whenever possible, students will be allowed to choose what they will learn, how they will learn, and how they will assess their learning in terms of their ministry and professional goals.

BEST PRACTICES

As a fully online program, Graduate Studies at Grace Christian University adheres to the best practices of online education, including, but not limited to: online presence, creating a supportive online community, a variety of individual, small group, and large group learning experiences, and clear communication in the online environment.

Identity

We take care of your personalized education plan

Time

Finish in the same time as an on-campus program

Online

Log-in when it works best for you

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is thE Bachelor's program for?

Anyone who has a high school diploma or equivalent and is seeking a quality Christian education. We offer tuition discounts for military personnel and payment plans for cash paying students. We also accept Federal Financial Aid.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE PROFESSORS OF THIS PROGRAM?

Your professors have first hand knowledge working in their areas of instruction, along with advanced degrees and higher education experience. They are eager not just to instruct, but to guide you on your faith journey and pray for you throughout your time here. Their desire is to help you succeed and equip you for where God has called you.

What are the benefits of the program?

Students in the online Bachelor's degree Programs will be able to:

  • Attend classes on a flexible schedule that allows for work and family responsibilities

  • Expand career and ministry opportunities with a degree that opens doors

  • Obtain an affordable, high-quality education

  • Gain collaboration skills through working with classmates and professors

  • Achieve an educational goal

WHAT FLEXIBILITY DOES THE Bachelor's PROGRAM OFFER?

Students can work on one course at a time, at a time of day and week that is convenient for them.

    WHY SHOULD I STUDY ONLINE AT GRACE?

    Advance your career from the comfort of your own home.

    Our online master’s degrees are designed for busy professionals who desire to advance their careers. Through our flexible classes, our professors will encourage and mentor you as you expand your current pursuits.

    Experience a caring community.

    Connect with professors and students who will come alongside you as you pursue higher education and growth in Christ. At Grace, we’re passionate about equipping and supporting you to serve the Lord and others in all that God has called you to do.

    Strengthen your biblical foundation.

    At Grace Christian University, the Word of God is taught, valued, and celebrated. Deepen your knowledge of God’s Word as you receive an education grounded in objective Biblical truth.

    The Grace Experience.

    As closely as possible, the Graduate Studies program will reproduce the experience of undergraduate students (On Campus and Online) in an authentic Grace Christian University experience, expressing the ethos, core values, and historic mission of the University. This includes the University’s commitment to being a Bible-centered institution, committed to our historic Grace theological position, which values transformative relationships and service to church and society.

      Where can I view the Academic Catalog?

      View or download the 2022-23 Online Undergraduate Academic Catalog here.

      View past Academic Catalogs here.

      Where can i view the academic Calendar?

      View the “Academic Calendar” section in the Online Undergraduate Academic Catalog.

      WHAT SETS OUR Bachelor'S PROGRAMS APART?

      Our Enrollment Advisors are there for you.

      One-on-one coaching through the admissions process and the first class with your assigned Enrollment Advisor. Your advisor will want to know:

      • Your passion
      • Your path and goals
      • Life circumstances that could help or hinder your success
      • How can they pray for and with you

      Your advisor will take this information seriously and provide tailored care as you get started with your degree.

      We Prioritize You

      Your goals and giftings are prioritized so they drive your success; this is opposed to a one-size fits all mentality & communication.

      We take care of all class registration and your personalized education plan is created when you begin your program, so you are able to see all courses required until your graduate date.

      One Class at a Time

      No required log-in time (you log in throughout the week when it works best for your schedule!)

      Students finish their online degrees in the same period as if they were attending an on-campus program.

      Our Professors Care

      Staff and faculty care about each student's eternal impact, which influences the care and resources we provide. Professors care and are easily accessible.

      Low professor-to-student ratio:

      • Online Undergraduate - 9.3 students per course section
      • Online Graduate - 7 students per course section

      The Bible is Central

      All classes are taught from a biblical foundation, regardless of subject, with weekly devotions.

      Low Cost Quality Education

      Low tuition for a private Christian education.

        Sarah H
        Attending Grace Christian University was one of the most incredible experiences of my life … Some of the most impactful moments for me were the weekly devotionals in class. So many times, the devotionals aligned with my life or my current challenges.

        Sarah H
        Leadership & Ministry, Online Undergraduate
        Attending Grace Christian University was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… Some of the most impactful moments for me were the weekly devotionals in class. So many times, the devotionals aligned with my life or my current challenges.
        Sarah H
        Sarah H
        Leadership & Ministry, Online Undergraduate
        John M
        The prayers and support that I have received from the faculty and staff at Grace Christian University has been more than an encouragement, it is a motivation. This experience has been very humbling and has allowed me to let God work in me and through me at a much deeper level.

        John M
        Leadership & Ministry, Online Undergraduate
        The prayers and support that I have received from the faculty and staff at Grace Christian University has been more than an encouragement, it is a motivation. This experience has been very humbling and has allowed me to let God work in me and through me at a much deeper level.
        John M
        John M
        Leadership & Ministry, Online Undergraduate
        Deanna W
        Grace's class materials make me dig deep into my assignments and search the Scriptures which makes me grow in my faith by studying the Scriptures.

        Deanna W
        Leadership & Ministry, Online Undergraduate
        Grace's class materials make me dig deep into my assignments and search the Scriptures which makes me grow in my faith by studying the Scriptures.
        Deanna W
        Deanna W
        Leadership & Ministry, Online Undergraduate
        Angela B
        My most memorable experience was how wonderful my professors were. Not only were they extremely knowledgeable, they were as compassionate as they were knowledgeable. Their expertise and competence, along with their compassion, gave me the courage and support I needed to grow as a student.

        Angela B
        Human Services, Online Undergraduate
        My most memorable experience was how wonderful my professors were. Not only were they extremely knowledgeable, they were as compassionate as they were knowledgeable. Their expertise and competence, along with their compassion, gave me the courage and support I needed to grow as a student.
        Angela B
        Angela B
        Human Services, Online Undergraduate
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        For more information on this data visit 
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