Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Make a difference in human behavior and mental health.
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Gain a Deeper Understanding of Cognition and Behavior
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology at North Central University invites students into the world of human behavior, brain function, emotional processes, and research methods used to understand and support mental health. Choose between a generalist and clinical track to further focus on your calling in psychology.
Through evidence-based curriculum and experiential learning, you’ll gain the knowledge and experience you need to apply psychological methods and best practices in a number of settings or pursue further training. Our psychology degree program encourages you to see what God sees in yourself and others, laying a foundation for life-changing work in settings such as clinical practice, school counseling or psychology, pastoral care, and other disciplines that promote mental health.
- On Campus: Complete this 124-credit program on campus as part of our Christian community.
- Affordable Tuition: Explore generous financial aid options available to all residential traditional undergraduate students.
- Christ-Centered Curriculum: Define and refine your faith at NCU, where classes and student life are rooted in Scripture and nurtured in community.
The psychology professors are not only incredible professional advisors, but interesting, entertaining, well-informed, and incredible professors within their field.”
Nicole, ’24
Psychology
Why Study Psychology at NCU?
At NCU, spiritual formation is at the core of all we do, and that is especially true of how we approach scholarship in human psychology and mental health. As a psychology major, you will embark on a program designed with care and embedded with Christian values.
Our goals for students in this program are that you:
- Build a strong base of rigorous psychological knowledge and scholarship
- Develop curiosity and a commitment to critical thinking and scientific inquiry
- Apply ethical and socially responsible behaviors in personal and professional relationships
- Grow as a psychology professional through effective self-reflection and self-regulation, project management and teamwork skills, and career preparation
- Integrate your Christian faith into psychological practices with a biblically informed worldview
To achieve these goals, the program features coursework in lifespan development, research methods, and psychopathology, as well as clinical and generalist specialization training. All courses are taught by experienced Christian faculty who are committed to helping you thrive in your faith and future career.
Students may choose to minor in Psychology or Psychology/Pastoral Care, paired with another major.
View the Academic Catalog for a full list of admission requirements and course listings.
Program Highlights
Research in the NCU Neuroscience Laboratory
Gain Real-World Experience
Connect With Peers in Psi Chi
Research in the NCU Neuroscience Laboratory
Directed by Dr. Jeffrey Leighton, the Neuroscience Laboratory is leading innovative research that bridges the gap between science and spirituality.
Gain Real-World Experience
Our network offers students exciting opportunities to enhance skills, build connections, and prepare for servant leadership through internships and ministry opportunities.
Connect With Peers in Psi Chi
Psi Chi is an international honor society for psychology students with an active chapter at NCU.
Specialization Tracks
Clinical Track
Focus on practical and theoretical education on topics such as multicultural counseling, theories of personality, group process and practice, and psychological testing. You’ll be prepared to take the next steps in clinical training, such as an internship and/or postgraduate degree.
Generalist Track
The Generalist track focuses on psychological theories and practices you can apply across professional roles and callings. It includes courses in both upper-level psychology and social work subjects to prepare you for supporting the mental health and well-being of the whole person, family, and community.
Career Outcomes
Psychology is a growing and essential field of study and work. A psychology degree program is professionally beneficial, and graduates work in many in-demand career paths — mostly in managerial and leadership roles, and also in social services, education and community organizations, clinical practice, and research. While most of these positions require or prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree, pursuing clinical practice requires a master’s degree or higher.1
The role of psychologist, either in clinical practice, research, or education, usually requires a master’s or doctoral degree, which may be worth it, considering demand for this job is projected to grow by 6% between 2024 and 2034, which is faster than the national average.2
Where Our Alumni Work and Intern*
- Fraser Mental Health
- Cornerhouse House
- Ronald Macdonald House
- MN Refugee Services
- Arrive Ministries
- Hennepin County Medical Center
*This includes alumni internships of our Psychology and Social Work programs.
Learn From Industry Experts
Seasoned, credentialed faculty share their expansive psychology experience and a commitment to support students as you pursue your calling.
Explore Related Programs
Not sure how your calling translates into a degree? These programs may interest you:
B.S. in Social Work
B.A. in Pastoral Studies
B.S. in Youth, Children, and Family Studies
FAQs
Does the psychology degree program require an internship?
Yes, all students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program at NCU must complete an internship ahead of graduation. Internships in the Twin Cities provide hands-on training at a wide range of organizations, from schools and community centers to national nonprofits and healthcare facilities. Our experienced faculty can help guide you in finding and applying for internship opportunities.
How does NCU integrate faith with psychology?
In every industry or career, Christians live our faith and model Christ’s love to everyone around us. That’s why at NCU, we integrate spiritual formation and biblically informed practices in every course, including psychology. All students take core classes in general education and Christian studies to ensure you have a strong foundation on which to build your major and career.
You’ll learn with Christian faculty who want to see you succeed as a responsible, ethical leader in today’s mental health landscape. They’ll encourage you to grow in your faith and build skills that mirror Jesus’s respect and kindness toward others as well as the excellence we’re called to pursue for God’s glory.
I have credits from another college or university. Can I still apply?
Yes, transfer students are welcome to apply and enroll in the B.S. in Psychology and our many other programs. Learn more about Transfer Admissions.
Citations
Sources: 1Bureau of Labor Statistics, Field of degree: Psychology, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/field-of-degree/psychology/psychology-field-of-degree.htm (viewed Nov. 24, 2025).
2Bureau of Labor Statistics, Psychologists, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm (viewed Nov. 24, 2025).