Psychology

Program Description

The Associate in Arts for Transfer Degree (AA-T) in Psychology is designed for students planning to transfer into a baccalaureate program in psychology or a similar major at a California State University (CSU) or another 4-year college or university. The subject of psychology is built upon the scientific study of the biological and mental processes and environmental factors that influence human behavior. Students pursuing the AA-T will study the development of the person, basic processes of human perception, learning, cognition and motivation, biological processes, personality and the nature of psychological disorders, and how psychologists use their knowledge to help improve the quality of people’s lives.

The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program allows students to fulfill lower division major requirements at a community college and guarantees transfer with junior status to a college within the California State University (CSU) system. Students who complete an ADT and transfer to a similar major at a CSU are guaranteed a pathway to finish their baccalaureate degrees in 60 semester units.

This AA-T degree program requires students to meet the following requirements:

1. Completion of 60 semester units that are eligible for transfer to the CSU system, including the following:
   1. The California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirements.
   2. A minimum of 18 semester units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
   3. A minimum of 12 semester units earned at Merritt College.
2. Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
3. Obtainment of a minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major.

The completion time for this AA-T degree program is generally 4 semesters. Completion time will vary based on student preparation and the number of units completed per semester.

See the Transfer Information section of this catalog for more information on ADT and Cal-GETC requirements.

Career Opportunities

The Psychology AA-T degree prepares students for an entry-level position in the field of psychology. Job opportunities could include mental health caseworker, counselor's aide, crisis intervention, family support positions, working with the elderly, and helping people with developmental disabilities. In addition, the associate degree provides a foundation for further career advancement if you continue on to complete your bachelor's degree.

Learning Outcome(s)

1. Communicate with clarity and precision using oral, nonverbal, and/or written language, regarding the theoretical, research, knowledge base and applied practice of the field of psychology.
2. Show understanding of how the brain and body are related to the psychological functioning of the individual.
3. Apply their knowledge of psychology to understanding and supporting the psychological development of multicultural populations.