Program Summary

PSYCHOLOGY - Associate in Arts

The Psychology program provides the foundational knowledge and skills essential for the scientific study of behavior and mental processes that form the basis for understanding the diverse range of topics encompassed by psychology. Students learn to examine psychological processes from multiple perspectives and to apply psychological principles and methods to personal and social issues in ways that promote self-understanding, personal development and effective interpersonal relationships as members of a diverse society. A psychology background is useful for people interested in working in the areas of mental or public health, social services, education, business, human resources, public relations, or law.

The Psychology program provides students with knowledge of the content, methods and applications of psychology that prepares them to make a successful transition into a Psychology Baccalaureate Degree program or career.

The Psychology AA requires 60 associate degree applicable semester units with a minimum 2.0 grade point average, which include 4 specified Psychology courses (12 units) and 2 elective courses (6-10 units) for the major, as well as the Cuesta College associate degree requirements for General Education.

Career Opportunities
Required Courses (12 credits)
Units: 12.0
PSYC C1000
INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY
3.0
PSYC 202
INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY
3.0
PSYC 206
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY
3.0
PSYC 233
PERSONALITY AND ADJUSTMENT
3.0
Plus two courses 6-10 credits from the following:
Units: 6.0-10.0
Students who plan to transfer to a specific four-year college or university should consult the Catalog of that institution for lower division major requirements when selecting elective courses.
ANTH 201
PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY
3.0
ANTH 203
CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY
3.0
BIO 201A
BIOLOGY
5.0
BIO 201B
BIOLOGY
5.0
BIO 211
LIFE SCIENCE
3.0
BIO 212
HUMAN BIOLOGY
3.0
ASHS 212
HUMAN DEVELOPMENT: LIFE SPAN
3.0
ASHS 214
FAMILY, RELATIONSHIPS AND INTIMACY
3.0
ASHS 218
HUMAN SEXUALITY: EXPERIENCE & EXPRESSION
3.0
STAT C1000
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS
4.0
PSYC 200
RESEARCH METHODS FOR THE BEHAVIORAL AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
3.0
SOC 201A
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY
3.0
SOC 206
INTRODUCTION TO RACE AND ETHNICITY
3.0
Total: 18.0-22.0
Program Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of the important concepts, historical approaches, theoretical perspectives, vocabulary, and research findings in the major areas of psychology: biological, behavioral, developmental, cognitive, personality, social and clinical/counseling.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for each psychology course taught at Cuesta College will be used to assess the effectiveness of the program learning outcomes. Psychology SLOs assessments will be used to determine if modifications are necessary for the program learning outcomes.
Students will use critical thinking and a scientific approach to evaluate questions and conclusions related to behavior and mental processes, as well as apply basic research methods encompassing information technology, research design, data analysis and interpretation.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for each psychology course taught at Cuesta College will be used to assess the effectiveness of the program learning outcomes. Psychology SLOs assessments will be used to determine if modifications are necessary for the program learning outcomes.
Students will apply psychological principles and methods to personal, social and organizational issues in ways that promote self-understanding, personal development and effective relationships, and that enable students to function as more effective members of society.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for each psychology course taught at Cuesta College will be used to assess the effectiveness of the program learning outcomes. Psychology SLOs assessments will be used to determine if modifications are necessary for the program learning outcomes.
Students will describe and analyze the ambiguity, ethical issues and sociocultural diversity inherent to the alternative theoretical perspectives of psychology.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for each psychology course taught at Cuesta College will be used to assess the effectiveness of the program learning outcomes. Psychology SLOs assessments will be used to determine if modifications are necessary for the program learning outcomes.