Associate of Arts - Psychology - Transfer Degree

The Psychology Program is committed to the highest possible standards in teaching and facilitating learning in a student centered environment. Formally defined as the systematic scientific study of behavior and mental processes, Psychology is both a natural and social science in which people study human and animal behavior. As such it is a broad discipline, which includes basic science and the application of basic science in everyday life. Learning and teaching methods concentrate on the use of scientific methods to understand and predict behavior, to develop procedures for changing behavior, and to evaluate treatment strategies. Areas of study within psychology are social psychology, developmental psychology, comparative psychology, cognitive psychology, organizational psychology, counseling psychology and experimental psychology.

This dynamic field promotes critical thinking and cognitive skills necessary for the interpretation and understanding of other individuals. It is the study of human beings, by far the most complex phenomenon on the planet.

The Associate in Arts in Psychology for Transfer (AA-T) degree is designed to prepare a transfer pathway for students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology or similar major at a California State University (CSU). With the completion of the AA-T degree in psychology, students will possess foundational knowledge and skills that comprise the core content of the first two years of many bachelor’s programs in psychology. The AA-T in psychology is in alignment with the current mission of the college and the college’s strategic plan and initiatives.

Psychology is the systematic scientific study of human and animal behavior and mental processes, including cognition, emotion, sensation, perception and interaction. In pursuing the AA-T degree in psychology, students acquire skills in research, information gathering, and analytical thinking. Students majoring in psychology develop critical thinking, problem solving and written and verbal communication skills. As psychology majors, students have learning opportunities that are relevant to many types of careers, including business, education, government, nonprofit organizations and within health and human services, etc.