Psychology Associate Degree
Associate Degree

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Why Pursue an Associate Degree in Psychology at NCC?

Venture into the intricate world of human behavior, mental health, and psychopathology in the Associate in Art in Psychology at Northampton Community College. In this 2-year program, you study the basics of psychological theories and methods, explore different branches of psychology, and prepare to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program.

 

What Will You Learn in the Psychology Major?

Prepare for your bachelor’s degree program and your career by learning theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology, including cognition, biological approaches, developmental changes, personality and social processes, psychological disorders, and treatments, individual differences, research methodology, and theories of stress and coping.

 

In NCC’s 2-year psychology degree program, you study psychological principles and use scientific approaches to solve problems related to behavioral and mental processes. The faculty are committed to providing knowledge and experiences that enable students to make educated and informed decisions regarding future occupational and educational choices.



Program Details

Semesters: 4

Credits: 62

College Catalog: View Curriculum

Program Map: Download PDF

Locations: Bethlehem

Program Overview:

Deepen your understanding of people and communities through courses in communication, developmental psychology, sociology, ethics, and research methods. The program also offers electives that you can choose according to your target transfer program and long-term goals. You can complete the AA in Psychology over the course of four semesters on our Bethlehem campus.



Prepare for Successful Transfer to a 4-Year University

By studying psychology at NCC for two years, you can save up to $40,000! Our low tuition rates are among the most affordable in Pennsylvania, and our financial aid and scholarship opportunities are generous. We prepare you with all the essential skills—in psychology and beyond—that you need to thrive when you transfer out to top universities like:

 

  • East Stroudsburg University: Psychology
  • Kutztown University: Psychology
  • DeSales University: Psychology
  • Lehigh University: Psychology
  • Moravian: Psychology
  • Temple: Psychology


Which Program is Right for You? Applied Psychology vs. Psychology

NCC offers two psychology programs: the AA in Psychology and the AAS in Applied Psychology. These programs overlap, and you may decide partway through your studies to switch from the psychology to applied psychology major.

The psychology degree focuses on theories, methods, and research practices, and serves as a foundation for a bachelor’s degree in psychology and further education towards becoming a counselor or psychologist.

The applied psychology program is more hands-on, with a focus on behavioral health, human services, and counseling skills. This degree culminates in a 150-hour internship—an experience that can empower you to launch your career right away or transfer to a four-year institution.

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Future Career Paths

The associate’s degree in psychology at Northampton Community College equips you with a solid foundation on which you will build further knowledge and robust clinical practice in a four-year bachelor’s degree program.

To practice as a clinical psychologist or counselor, you’ll need to pursue further education at the graduate and postgraduate levels. Careers related to psychology earn a median annual wage of $53,000, with higher salaries in positions that require more specialized degrees (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Start your journey toward career opportunities like:

  • Family Counselor
  • Mental Health Counselor
  • Substance Abuse Counselor
  • Social Worker
  • Human Resource Specialist
  • Elementary School Teacher
  • Career Advisor

Student Spotlight

What made me choose my major was that I would like to help people with their emotional problems and help them to achieve their goals. The most unique thing about the program is teachers, without them, this wouldn't be possible. They are an inspiration.

Fausto Castillo, Alumni
Psychology

Fausto Castillo

Need Help Deciding?

Not sure if this is the right program for you? Take advantage of the resources we have available for students to help hone in on what path to pursue.


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Next Steps

With 120+ high-quality programs at a highly affordable cost, you can build specialized skills to advance in your career path — fast. And with flexible class formats and convenient locations, it's never been easier to join us.

Northampton Community College

Northampton Community College
3835 Green Pond Road
Bethlehem PA 18020
610.861.5300

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