Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Online

Turn your fascination with human behavior into a career in mental health, HR or research, with hands-on research and real practicum experience along the way.

Apply by: 12/21/26
Start class: 1/11/27
Apply Now

Program Overview

Advance your career with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology online program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale builds a research-grounded foundation in human behavior, spanning clinical, cognitive and applied psychology. Choose from 40-plus elective courses, collaborate with faculty actively engaged in research and complete a hands-on practicum most undergraduates never reach until graduate school.

This flexible Bachelor of Arts Psychology program builds career-ready scientific reasoning and communication skills for jobs in mental health, human resources and marketing. Complete your psychology bachelor’s program online quickly and affordably, transferring up to 90 credits toward a degree that prepares you for roles across diverse industries or graduate study.

As a student of this online bachelor degree in psychology, you will:

  • Use fundamental knowledge and comprehension of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends and empirical findings to discuss how psychological principles apply to behavioral problems
  • Understand the principal findings and theories of developmental, personality and social psychology
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principal findings and theories of biological, clinical, cognitive, counseling, industrial-organizational and learning psychology
  • Apply scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills toward interpreting behavior, studying research and using research design principles to draw conclusions about psychological phenomena
  • Utilize ethically and socially responsible behaviors in a landscape that involves increasing diversity
  • Apply knowledge of psychology to social problems and solutions
  • Express views on psychological issues in an informed and cogent manner, both in writing and in oral presentation
As a student of this online bachelor degree in psychology, you will:+
  • Use fundamental knowledge and comprehension of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends and empirical findings to discuss how psychological principles apply to behavioral problems
  • Understand the principal findings and theories of developmental, personality and social psychology
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principal findings and theories of biological, clinical, cognitive, counseling, industrial-organizational and learning psychology
  • Apply scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills toward interpreting behavior, studying research and using research design principles to draw conclusions about psychological phenomena
  • Utilize ethically and socially responsible behaviors in a landscape that involves increasing diversity
  • Apply knowledge of psychology to social problems and solutions
  • Express views on psychological issues in an informed and cogent manner, both in writing and in oral presentation

What career opportunities are available with a bachelor’s in psychology from SIU Carbondale?

  • Behavioral Health Specialist
  • Case Worker/Manager
  • Human Resources Coordinator
  • Marketing Coordinator/Specialist
  • Mental Health Technician
  • Training Coordinator
What career opportunities are available with a bachelor’s in psychology from SIU Carbondale?+
  • Behavioral Health Specialist
  • Case Worker/Manager
  • Human Resources Coordinator
  • Marketing Coordinator/Specialist
  • Mental Health Technician
  • Training Coordinator

Also available:

Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers specialized degrees that can help you grow personally and professionally. Check out our other online undergraduate programs.

Also available:+

Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers specialized degrees that can help you grow personally and professionally. Check out our other online undergraduate programs.

Per Credit Tuition $327.75
Transfer Credits Up to 90
Credit Hours 120

Accreditation

Southern Illinois University Carbondale is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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Need More Information?

Call 855-741-0087

Call 855-741-0087

Tuition

Invest in your future with affordable, flexible tuition

At SIU, we believe that education should be accessible to all, and that’s why the tuition for the online bachelor in psychology program is budget-friendly and paid by the course.

View additional tuition information+

Program Per Credit Hour Per Course*
B.A. – Psychology $327.75 $983.25


Potential Expenses Per Year*

Tuition** Fees*** Food and Housing Books, Course Materials, Supplies and Equipment Personal Expenses Transportation Total with Tuition
$39,330 $80 $13,067 $780 $1,761 $1,300

*Published tuition costs may differ from a student’s estimated total “cost of attendance,” which includes the amount an online student may choose to spend on expenses such as housing and food, books and supplies, transportation and other personal items or activities. As a SIU Carbondale Online student, you will only ever be billed for applicable tuition and fees. All other costs listed are estimates per academic year required by the federal government to help you budget for your education.

**Tuition per Year based on 18 semester hours per year (Fall, Spring + 3CH Summer): $5,899.50

***The fee amount in the financial aid budget is based on the maximum fees assessed to students based on full-time enrollment.

For further information regarding program tuition and fees visit the Financial Aid website.

Tuition breakdown:

Per Credit Hour $327.75

Calendar

Find a start date that fits your schedule

Our bachelor’s in psychology online program is delivered in a 100 percent online format, giving you the freedom to fulfill professional and personal responsibilities while enrolled. Choose the start date that best suits your schedule.

View full calendar +

TermStart DateApp DeadlineDocument DeadlineRegistration DeadlineTuition DeadlineClass End DateTerm Length
Spring A1/11/2712/21/2612/28/261/10/273/5/278 weeks
Spring B3/15/272/22/273/1/273/14/275/7/278 weeks
Summer6/7/275/17/275/24/276/6/278 weeks

Now enrolling:

Next Apply Date 12/21/26
Start Class 1/11/27

Ready to take the next steps toward earning your degree?

Apply Now

Admissions

Take the next step: Apply to this online psychology degree program

Apply to the B.A. in Psychology online program and prepare to unleash your potential, discover your passions, and create a future that reflects your unique aspirations.

View all admission requirements +

For admission into the B.A. in Psychology online program, you must meet the streamlined requirements below.

Students with 12 or more transferable credits or 18 quarter hours:

  • Submit online application and $40 non-refundable application fee
  • Minimum GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale), as calculated by transfer institution grading policies
  • Current, official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended

Official transcripts and other documents should be sent from the granting institutions to the Articulation and Evaluation office.

Email address:[email protected]

Mailing address:
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Articulation and Evaluation
1263 Lincoln Drive MC 4725
Carbondale, IL 62901

Students with fewer than 12 transferable credits:

Students who transfer with less than 12 transferable credits must meet both the transfer admission standards and first-year admission standards.

  • Transfer admission: GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
  • First-year admission: Applicants meeting any of the following criteria will be admitted:
    • A high school GPA of 2.75 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
    • An ACT score of 23 or higher (or equivalent SAT score)
    • A ranking in the top 10 percent of their high school graduating class
  • Current, official transcripts from high school and all colleges or universities attended

Official transcripts and other documents should be sent from the granting institutions to the Undergraduate Admissions office.

Email address:[email protected]

Mailing address:
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Undergraduate Admissions
1263 Lincoln Drive MC 4710
Carbondale, IL 62901

Admission Requirements:

  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • 2.0 GPA

Courses

See what you'll study in your online bachelor’s psychology program

For the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology online program, you must complete 39 credit hours of university core courses (13 credit hours of foundation skills, 23 credit hours of disciplinary studies and three credit hours of integrative studies); 21 credit hours of major core courses; and 30 credit hours of major electives. Additional elective credits will be required to complete this 120-credit B.A. degree program.

Expand All

Students are required to complete the courses listed below for a total of nine credit hours.

•    The psychology major also requires PSYC 102 and a MATH course which count toward university core curriculum requirements.
•    Students must take six credit hours toward a cross-cultural perspectives requirement.
•    Students must take six credit hours toward a critical thinking and communication skills requirement.

Students will work with their advisors to determine appropriate courses to satisfy those additional requirements.

Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 1
(University Core Curriculum) A survey of fields of psychology from the perspective of available career options. Activities, required skills, rewards, and external constraints that characterize different career paths are practiced and discussed in relation to students' abilities and interests. Required of psychology majors, but open to any interested student. Prerequisite: None.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 4
An introduction to the use of scientific methods in the study of behavior. Considerations of experimental design and methodology are integrated with the treatment of data analysis, interpretation of results and writing of a research report. Students will write a research proposal, conduct an experiment, and write a report of the experiment. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: MATH 101 or UCC Math; PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 4
A continued exploration of the use of scientific methods in the study of behavior. Topics include field and other quasi-experimental methods appropriate for use in settings in which the researcher can exercise minimal control and manipulation. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: PSYC 211.

Students can choose 30 credit hours of psychology electives (10 courses) from the courses listed below. 

Students must choose to take either PSYC 445 or PSYC 443.

Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The inferred patterns underlying an individual's unique reactions to the environment. Investigates the motivation, development, and methods of changing these patterns, and how personality processes are studied. Prerequisite: PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Surveys contemporary issues such as love and friendship, shyness and loneliness, sexual attitudes and behavior, management of impressions made on others, attitude change and persuasion, leadership, group processes, aggression, and helping behavior. Prerequisite: PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Examines variables affecting motivation in animals and humans. Topics include motivation based on cultural processes as well as those based on biological needs. Prerequisite: PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A survey of theory and research on attention, memory, language behavior, and problem solving. The principal orientation will be the information processing approach to the study of behavior. Prerequisite: PSYC 102
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Introduces students to the scientific principles and processes underlying the field of health psychology including interactions between biological, psychological, and social foundations of health. The course will provide clear connections between science and the real world to increase student understanding of how to live a long and healthy life. Prerequisite: PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An introduction to the major forms of psychopathology (e.g., depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders). Topics include the symptomatology of different mental disorders, their etiology from psychological, biological, and sociocultural perspectives, and issues pertaining to diagnosis and treatment. Prerequisite: PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Provides an in-depth understanding of the nature of two major specialties in the field of psychology: clinical and counseling psychology. Students will examine the historical origins of the two areas, study their major theoretical definitions, compare and contrast the areas, and sample empirical and practitioner activities unique to them. Prerequisite: PSYC 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course will provide a comprehensive overview of key concepts in parenting, the nature of parenting across the lifespan and specific challenges for parents with children in each of the developmental stages. We will discuss effective strategies for addressing these challenges in addition to programs and approaches that demonstrate a strong evidence base. Special focus will additionally be given to diversity issues, parenting in high risk families and in families with exceptional children. Prerequisites: PSYC 102, PSYC 301, or consent of instructor.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An advanced presentation of theoretical and empirical issues in contemporary psychopathology research. Explores the role empirical research plays in understanding the features of major psychological disorders and their treatment. Provides a broad understanding of the many factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of abnormal behaviors. Prerequisite: PSYC 211, PSYC 331 or consent of instructor or graduate status.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
(Same as LING 445) A broad spectrum introduction to psycholinguistics. Topics to be covered include general methodology for the study of psycholinguistics, the nature of language, theories of human communication, language comprehension and production, first and second language acquisition, meaning and thought, natural animal communication systems, and language and the brain.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Examines the linguistic, psycholinguistic, sociolinguistic, and educational aspects of bilingualism, particularly as pertaining to the care and education of bilingual children. Useful for teachers, speech therapists, doctors, psychologists, counselors, and others working with bilinguals. Practical applications and data-based research. Prerequisite: PSYC 211 with a grade of C- or better.

University core curriculum requires a total of 39 credit hours distributed across three general areas:

  • 13 credit hours of foundation skills in English composition (6 CH), foundations of inquiry (1 CH), communication studies (3 CH) and quantitative reasoning (3 CH) designed to strengthen students' writing, oral and mathematical skills
  • 23 credit hours of disciplinary studies in fine arts (3 CH), human health (2 CH), humanities (6 CH), science (6 CH), and social science (6 CH) designed to introduce students to the universe of human knowledge
  • Three credit hours of integrative studies designed to increase students' respect for and appreciation of human diversity

The following list presents all available courses that meet the requirements shared above:

 

Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An examination of the variables related to the origins and modifications of human behavior using the viewpoints and techniques of contemporary psychology.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Rhetorical foundations for demands of academic and professional writing, including recognition and deployment of strategies and processes for effective written products in various contexts and for various purposes. Class discussion and readings focus on the function and scope of professional literacy. To receive credit in the University Core Curriculum, a student must earn a C or better.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The second course in the two-course sequence of composition courses required of all students in the University. Using culturally diverse reading materials, the course focuses on the kinds of writing students will do in the University and in the world outside the University. The emphasis is on helping students understand the purpose of research, develop methods of research (using both primary and secondary sources), and report their findings in the appropriate form. Prerequisite: English 101 or equivalent with a minimum grade of C. To receive credit in the University Core Curriculum, a student must earn a C or better in English 102.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Elementary mathematical principles as they relate to a variety of applications in contemporary society. Financial mathematics, probability and statistics, graph theory, voting, and other concepts. This course does not count towards the major in mathematics. Prerequisite: high school Geometry and Algebra 2 with a grade of C or better.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course covers the algebra of functions (polynomials, rational, exponential, and logarithmic), graphing, and solving equations, including systems. Credit is given for only one of MATH 108 and MATH 106. Prerequisite: Three years of college preparatory mathematics, including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II, AND a satisfactory placement score. A course fee not to exceed $60 is assessed to residential students, which will cover additional instruction. Additional supplemental software is required. The platform is used for assessment and provides online access to learning aids and the e-textbook.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Set concepts and operations, combinations, permutations, elementary probability theory including Bayes Formula, linear systems of equations, matrix algebra, row reduction, introduction to linear programming and simplex method. This course does not count toward the major in mathematics. Prerequisite: MATH 108 with grade of C or better or satisfactory placement score. Satisfies UCC Quantitative Reasoning in lieu of 110 or 101.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides theory and practical application relevant to students' development of basic oral communication competencies appropriate to a variety of contexts as situated in a culturally diverse world.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 1
The first-year seminar supports the transition of first-year students as they enter our research university. Special attention will be given to what it means to be a Saluki by exploring the richness of our history and traditions. In addition, upon completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and behaviors critical for academic and personal success.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 1
This seminar develops general skills that students need for success in the workplace, and enables students to connect their college experience to a professional work setting. Topics include: goal setting, money management, stress management, understanding the job market, networking, personal branding, preparing a resume and cover letter, interviewing, and workplace diversity. Satisfies the UCC Foundations of Inquiry requirement for students who have not successfully completed UNIV 101. Restricted to students with 3rd Year or 4th Year class standing.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Through lectures, in-class individual and group activities, readings, and discussions, students will learn to place musical works in their historical and cultural contexts by understanding the development of western art music. Students will also learn the listening skills necessary to perceive various fundamental aspects of any work of music.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An introduction to critical tools for analyzing moving images, featuring screenings of important and innovative films and video art, from early cinema to social media. Formal and technical aspects of various screen media and genres are examined in cultural and historical context. Emphasis on the relationships among aesthetic expression, media technologies, and social formations. Screening fee: $30.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 2
This course integrates nutrition and promotion of health through prevention of disease and will answer questions found daily in the media regarding nutrition. Topics emphasized are functions of basic nutrients, impact of culture, gender, ethnicity, social environments and lifestyle on nutrition and health.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An investigation of select issues in societies of the world from pre-history through the 20th century, with a focus on primary source interpretation. Some sections of this course may be limited to History majors. Please consult with advisor and/or instructor.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
What distinguishes humans from other animals? This course addresses how language is a uniquely human phenomenon by exploring issues in language and society and psychological aspects of language use. Topics include language in conversation, differences between speakers of different ages/genders/regions/social groups, first and second language acquisition, bilingualism, language meaning and change, and the relationship between language and culture.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Examines human interaction with geologic processes and hazards, including earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides and flooding; occurrences and availability of geologic resources, such as energy, water and minerals; and human impacts on the environment including global warming, waste disposal, and pollution. Two lectures per week. Must be taken concurrently with or upon completion of Geology 112 or 113. If Geology 111 is dropped the laboratory course must also be dropped. Credit Hours: 2 GEOL112 - Geology and the Environment Laboratory Learning (University Core Curriculum) [IAI course: P1 908L] Laboratory to accompany Geology 111. Hands-on and inquiry-based learning in topics such as earth materials, topographic maps, stream dynamics, floods, coastal processes, landslides, groundwater, earthquakes, volcanoes, and human impacts on the environment. One laboratory session 2023-2024 Academic Catalog 480 per week. Must be taken concurrently with or upon completion of Geology 111. Lab fee: $10. Credit Hours: 1
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A scientific introduction to the physical processes responsible for weather and climate and the application of fundamental scientific skills to address aspects of weather and climate that are of particular importance to society at large. Lab fee: $20.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Introduction to fundamental biological concepts for non-life science majors interested in learning about interrelationships of human, plant and animal communities. Integrated lecture and laboratory cover topics that include structure and function of living systems, reproduction and inheritance, evolution, biological diversity and environmental biology. Laboratory applies scientific methods to the study of living systems. Lab fee: $20.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An introduction to the sociological perspective on human behavior, the structure and processes involved in social relationships, social stratification and inequality, social institutions, and social change. A survey of major areas of interest in sociology. Required of majors and minors in Sociology.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Study of businesses, consumers, and the government and their effects on prices, output and income distribution. Current economic problems will be used as illustrative examples. Prerequisite: satisfaction of the University Core Curriculum quantitative reasoning requirement. Satisfies the University Core Curriculum Social Science requirement in lieu of Economics 113.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An examination of how society's social structure influences the processes involved in and the definitions of crime and justice and the likelihood of being an offender and victim of crime. The differential influence of the operations and outcomes of the criminal justice system on groups in U.S. society is emphasized.
Duration: 8 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Examination of factors affecting the full utilization of women, racioethnic minorities, older workers, disabled workers and workers with nontraditional sexual orientations in the workplace. Individual processes, such as group identities, stereotyping, prejudice; group processes such as intergroup conflict; and organizational processes such as structural barriers and informal integration will be studied. The class utilizes a lecture and small discussion-section format with in-class, team, and individual exercises and projects.

Many courses from colleges and universities from within and outside of the United States qualify for transfer credits towards university core curriculum requirements. Visit the Transfer Equivalencies page for more information, or contact Transfer Student Services.

Students completing an Associate of Arts (AA) or an Associate of Science (AS) degree satisfying the Illinois Articulation Initiative’s General Education Core Curriculum (IAI GECC)* in a baccalaureate-oriented program in an accredited Illinois two-year institution will be accepted with junior standing and be considered to have completed the university core curriculum requirements. 

Students will need to complete 30 credit hours of general electives as approved by the advisor. 

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