Bachelor of Science in Psychology — Oakland
Discover the Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Northeastern. Explore psychological theories, research methods, and real-world applications for an impactful career in psychology and related fields.
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We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
Overview
Northeastern’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology is an innovative undergraduate program, where you will have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the key areas in psychology, including social and abnormal psychology, sensory function, learning, memory, human development, emotion, and motivation.
Through targeted coursework, this STEM designated degree provides a strong foundational knowledge within the discipline of psychology, including relevant theory and research that promotes social consciousness and intellectual and interpersonal growth. With an emphasis on scientific thinking, ethical behavior, and incorporation of diversity, you will cultivate insights into human behaviors and mental processes.
In addition, you will be able to hone your focus through specialized tracks such as applied behavior analysis, clinical and education tracks, that can help you direct your studies towards earning specific credentials, develop counseling skills and pursue other areas of specialized interest.
While the MA and PhD remain the only degrees that one can enter professional positions labeled "psychologist," undergraduate degree holders will be eligible to sit for the LSWA (Licensed Social Work Assistant) exam and will be prepared to enter careers in the human services industry, as well as to pursue graduate work in psychology or social work.
Program objectives
- To gain a comprehensive understanding of the key pillars in psychology such as biological, cognitive, developmental, social/personality and mental/physical health.
- To have a strong foundational knowledge within the discipline of psychology to cultivate insights into human behaviors and mental processes.
- To build the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to serve individuals, groups, organizations and communities in a global 21st century.
Unique Features
- Tailor your studies to impact some of the fastest growing social needs in the world, such as substance abuse and autism.
- Bring your current experiences into the classroom and use them to complete your assignments. Then learn to view things through a different lens as you navigate your career.
- Through electives, students will have the opportunity to develop their counseling skills and pursue other areas of specialized interest.
- Join Northeastern’s vast global alumni network – support others, socialize and build lasting connections for your future.
Career Prospects
A Bachelor of Science in Psychology prepares graduates to apply principles of human behavior, research methods, and communication skills in roles across healthcare, social services, education, and business. Many graduates also use the degree as a foundation for advanced study in psychology, counseling, or related fields.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor
These professionals work with individuals and groups to address mental health challenges, addiction, and behavioral issues through counseling and treatment planning. Median annual salary: $53,710 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors, May 2023 wage data).
Human Resources Specialist
Human resources specialists recruit, screen, and support employees, applying principles of psychology related to behavior, motivation, and organizational dynamics. Median annual salary: $67,650 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Human Resources Specialists, May 2023 wage data).
Social and Human Service Assistant
Social and human service assistants provide client support, coordinate services, and help individuals access community resources under the supervision of social workers or related professionals. Median annual salary: $41,600 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Human Service Assistants, May 2023 wage data).
Program Curriculum
For details on required courses, concentrations, and electives, please consult the current academic catalog.
Cost and Tuition
Cost Per Credit
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
Your path to a master’s
PlusOne accelerated master’s programs provide motivated students with the opportunity to start earning their master’s degree while pursuing their undergraduate education.
By completing the BS in Psychology, you can advance your learning by applying up to 16 earned semester hours (or up to 22.5 quarter hours) toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. This allows you to receive your graduate degree one year sooner than you would with a traditional master’s program in the following fields:
Admissions
Application Facts – begin at our website
- No application fees
- No SATs or ACTs required
- Multiple start terms per year
Requirements
- Online application – free and simple to complete
- Academic transcripts: submit one of the following
- Official high school degree or completed attestation form
- Official GED
- Official associate degree showing degree conferral and date
- Transfer credit documentation: should be submitted with your application material
- Academic transcripts from each institution you previously attended:
- Official U.S. transcripts: if you applied previously earned credit toward your earned associate degree, you must request transcripts from each institution you attended.
- Official foreign transcripts: must include English translation. We encourage you to submit a course-by-course evaluation of your diploma(s) and transcript(s)
- College-level examinations: official examination score(s)
- Military evaluation
- Academic transcripts from each institution you previously attended:
- Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language
For more information on Bachelor's Completion Admissions Requirements, please visit our Application Web Page.
Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.
Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
Military Discount Active U.S. servicemembers and their spouses are eligible to receive an amended tuition rate of $250/semester hour for our Bachelor Completion Programs. Northeastern is committed to making education within reach and affordable for our military students.
Let’s Find Your Path Forward
Our enrollment representatives can walk you through the application process and help you explore your program options.
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