Program Overview
A psychology major at the University of Kansas offers students an in-depth understanding of human behavior, cognition, and emotion. As a foundational discipline within the social sciences, psychology explores how individuals think, feel, and interact with others. With a curriculum grounded in scientific research and real-world applications, students in the major in psychology gain analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in various career fields.
Students pursuing a psychology major can choose between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of General Studies (BGS). The BA option includes a foreign language requirement, making it ideal for students interested in global perspectives or graduate studies. The BGS provides greater flexibility, allowing students to tailor their coursework to align with their professional goals. Both degree options share core psychology major requirements grounded in scientific methodology, research design, and breadth across psychological content areas.
Through engaging coursework, research opportunities, and experiential learning, students in the psych major develop expertise in understanding behavior, conducting scientific investigations, and applying psychological principles in diverse settings. Graduates earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology are well-prepared for careers in mental health, human resources, research, education, and more, as well as for further studies in psychology, law, medicine, or business.
The psychology major is available in both on-campus and online formats. The online bachelor’s degree in psychology is designed specifically for transfer students who have already completed prior college coursework. This flexible format allows students to complete upper-division psychology coursework in a fully online environment while learning from the same faculty and engaging with the same curriculum as on-campus students. The online option is ideal for working professionals, military-affiliated students, or those balancing family and career responsibilities.
The psychology major requirements include foundational coursework in general psychology, statistics, and research methods, along with advanced electives across areas such as clinical, social, cognitive, developmental, and biological psychology. Students also complete laboratory or experiential components that emphasize data analysis and scientific communication.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Psychology BA/BGSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s of Psychology is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Bachelor’s in Psychology Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the psychology major will:
- Demonstrate knowledge of key psychological concepts, theories, and empirical findings across major content areas of psychology.
- Apply scientific methods, research design principles, and statistical reasoning to analyze behavioral and cognitive processes.
- Develop critical thinking skills to evaluate research findings and psychological claims using evidence-based reasoning.
- Apply ethical standards consistent with professional guidelines in research and applied settings.
- Communicate psychological knowledge effectively in written, oral, and data-driven formats.
- Interpret and analyze quantitative data relevant to psychological research and real-world applications.
- Recognize the importance of diversity, equity, and cultural context in understanding behavior.
What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Psychology?
A psychology major opens the door to diverse career paths in mental health, business, education, and public service. According to Lightcast data, professionals with a bachelor’s degree in psychology earn a median salary of $50,000 per year. Graduates pursue a wide range of psychology major jobs and entry-level roles that emphasize communication, analysis, and interpersonal skills.
Common bachelors in psychology jobs include:
- Human Resources Specialist
- Case Manager
- Market Research Analyst
- Behavioral Health Technician
- Academic Advisor
Students interested in research, counseling, or clinical practice often continue into graduate programs. While many psychology bachelor degree jobs are available with an undergraduate degree, advanced credentials can expand opportunities in licensed or specialized fields.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options to make earning a psychology major affordable. Students can explore scholarships, grants, and loan opportunities by visiting the Financial Aid site.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the psychology major must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR 2.0 GPA and 21+ ACT
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
KU’s psychology major provides students with hands-on research experiences in areas such as cognitive science, neuroscience, social psychology, and clinical science. On-campus students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, participate in internships, and gain experience in data collection and analysis.
Students in the online psychology major engage in interactive coursework delivered through a digital learning platform. Online transfer students complete the same rigorous psychology curriculum, interact with faculty, and participate in discussions and applied assignments designed to mirror the academic depth of the on-campus experience.
Psychology majors benefit from a supportive academic community, including student organizations such as Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology. These groups provide networking opportunities, professional development, and connections with peers and faculty.
Bachelor’s in Psychology Sample Courses
Students pursuing the psychology major must complete foundational courses in psychology, including research methods and statistics, to develop a strong scientific background. Key courses include:
- General Psychology
- Statistics in Psychological Research
- Culture and Psychology
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Psychology and Social Issues
Additional upper-level electives allow students in the major in psychology to explore specialized topics in developmental, clinical, cognitive, social, and biological psychology. For a full list of psychology major requirements, visit the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Psychology Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the online bachelor’s in psychology?
The program can typically be completed in four years with full-time study, or faster with transfer credits.
Is the bachelor’s in psychology completely remote?
The online program can be completed 100% remotely as a degree completion/transfer program.