COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at San José State University is a 120-unit program that provides students with a broad and structured foundation in psychological science, including core knowledge of human behavior, biological bases of psychology, research methods, and statistical analysis. The degree is designed to develop strong critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills while also offering flexibility for students to explore specific areas of interest through upper-division electives and specialized course options. Students complete 18 units of Core Lower Division General Education, with some overlap allowed from the major, along with 6 units of American Institutions, 9 units of Upper Division General Education, 2 units of Physical Education, and a Written Communication requirement that may be satisfied through PSYC 100W. Major preparation consists of 4 units in introductory human biology or anatomy to support understanding of biological psychology. The 51-unit major includes lower-division core courses in introductory psychology, research methods, psychobiology, and statistics, followed by upper-division coursework in writing-intensive research methods, developmental psychology, cognition or neuroscience, psychopathology, personality or social psychology, and either testing or statistics. Students also complete a capstone experience to integrate their learning, along with a 3-unit engagement requirement that emphasizes applied or experiential learning in areas such as community service, cultural studies, health, or international programs. In addition, students take 9 units of psychology electives, allowing further specialization in areas like clinical, cognitive, social, or applied psychology, often including interdisciplinary options. The remaining 30 units are university electives, which provide additional academic flexibility and opportunities for exploration outside the major. Overall, the program prepares students for careers in mental health, education, business, research, and related fields, as well as for graduate study in psychology or professional programs, by combining scientific training, research experience, and applied learning in a comprehensive academic structure.