PSYCHOLOGY

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. Two tracks are offered: Associate in Arts in Psychology (AA in Psychology) and Associate in Arts in Psychology for Transfer (AA-T in Psychology).

The Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) is a special degree offered at California Community Colleges. Students who earn an AA-T or AS-T degree are guaranteed admission to a campus within the California State University (CSU) system, although not necessarily to a specific campus or major. Students who complete an AA-T or AS-T are given priority consideration when applying to a particular program that is similar to the student’s community college major and will be given a special GPA advantage when applying to CSU impacted campuses or majors. Students who are planning to pursue an AA-T or AS-T are strongly advised to meet with a counselor for additional information about this transfer program.

The Cuesta College AA-T in Psychology degree in requires:

(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:

(A) California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC).

(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

(3) Earn a “C” or better grade in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A "P" (Pass) grade is an acceptable grade for courses in the major.

Learning Outcome(s):

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Students will describe and analyze the ambiguity, ethical issues and socio-cultural diversity inherent to the alternative theoretical perspectives of psychology.