Psychology focuses on the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Athabasca University’s online psychology program is designed to develop or expand your knowledge of this field.
Our courses offer a comprehensive foundation in psychology as a science, enriching your understanding and skill set in a way that's applicable to diverse career paths. Whether you're looking to excel in business, human services, law, or even considering graduate studies, our program provides the grounding you need for a bright future.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for either the 3-year or the 4-year program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Program details
Overview
Explore the complexities of human behavior, from emotional well-being to cognitive processes are influenced by various factors. You'll also delve into specific areas like developmental psychology, mental health, social interaction, and even the biological mechanisms behind decision-making, equipping you with a holistic understanding of the human mind.
Routes and options
The Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Major is an online degree program, with both a 3-year and a 4-year option. There are no set start dates – you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Concentration (3-year online degree)
A 3-year degree is a well-respected and marketable credential in Canada and the United States.
It does not provide direct access to graduate-level studies.
You can extend your 3-year degree to a 4-year degree at a later date, if you wish. Learn more about degree conversion.
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Major (4-year online degree)
A 4-year degree prepares students for most graduate programs.
The 4-year BA program allows you to pursue either a major and minor or a double major.
Double majors must meet the requirements for both majors, which may restrict course selection or require additional credits above the 120 required for the BA.
You should talk to an academic advisor about your program and courses if you’re considering a double major.
To earn a minor you must complete 30 credits in that subject area.
List of minors:
Anthropology
Canadian Studies
English
French
Global Studies
History
Humanities
Inclusive Education
Labour Studies
Philosophy
Political Economy
Political Science
Public Administration
Sociology
Women's and Gender Studies
Note: AU does not offer an Honours BA.
Completion times
Finish the concentration option in 3 years of full-time study, the major option in 4 years, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
If you have previous post-secondary education or significant life and work experience that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). This could mean fewer courses to get your AU degree.
If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 30 credits at AU.
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
You can estimate your total program cost by multiplying the cost of a 3-credit course by the number of courses you need to take for the program. Remember that tuition costs may increase each year.
0 Credit
Student fees (regular and audit registrations) for a Province of Alberta student in a 0-credit course are calculated by combining the following:
In AU's online psychology major, you'll start by laying a solid foundation with essential courses like statistics and research methods, which prepare you for understanding and conducting psychological research. Then, you'll explore a broad range of topics—everything from developmental and social psychology to biological aspects of behavior and abnormal psychology. This program provides you with a holistic view of the field and offers practical skills in statistics and research, positioning you well for both advanced studies and a variety of career paths.
To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the general requirements of the Bachelor of Arts, plus those specific to your major, minor or concentration.
Our program course plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you’ll take them in. If you’re feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Here are some of the most popular courses students take in this program.
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Career options
Studying an online psychology degree at AU is like unlocking the mysteries of the human mind—you'll dive into why we think, feel, and act the way humans do. Plus, you'll get to explore how understanding human behavior can not only enhance your interpersonal knowledge but also open doors to diverse career paths such as:
child and family social worker
behavioural health technician
case manager
youth counsellor
psychiatric aide
life coach
psychiatric rehabilitation specialist
behaviour analyst
community health worker
preparation for further studies (medical, therapy, psychological services)
Resources and links
Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.