Why Study Psychology?

The desire to understand human behavior dates back to the beginning of civilization. Today, Psychology is an enormously popular field that helps us understand human behavior. Not only is earning a psychology degree highly sought-after, but it can also prepare you for a rewarding career in a wide range of fields. Find out where your psychology career can take you as you master the different approaches to social psychology, developmental psychology, and more with an online degree from Ottawa University!

What is Psychology?

Simply put, psychology is the study of the brain and how it affects our behavior. It analyzes the varying factors that impact the brain, such as physiological, mental, intellectual, personality, and social, and the impact those factors have on our actions. It focuses on human brain biology, cognition, and mental processes, while also exploring tested and emerging methods for analyzing, explaining, and improving behavior. The study of psychology involves not only the engagement and understanding of others but also of one’s self. By understanding the complex correlation between the mind and behavior, psychologists can help people achieve optimal behavior and mental activity.

Types of Psychology

Those who earn a Psychology degree study various types of psychology. Because there are complex variables that influence our minds, and thus our behavior, psychology is not a linear science. Rather, it is broken into subfields to help address the myriad factors impacting our thinking and ensuing actions. Earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the right school is your best option for gaining a strong foundation in the different types of psychology

Ottawa University’s online Psychology program thoroughly explores different approaches to the field. For example, a few of the common types of psychology classes you will explore as a student include:

General Psychology

Introduces the basic elements of understanding human behavior. You will learn the core types of psychology, the history of psychology, and the relations between the brain, behavior, and experience.

Developmental Psychology

Examines theory and research on issues of human growth and development. You will focus on human growth and changes across the lifespan, including physical, cognitive, social, intellectual, perceptual, personality, and emotional growth.

Psychopathology

Brings forth the biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences that contribute to abnormal behavior patterns. You will master the history, identification, diagnosis, and treatment of various psychopathological disorders.

Social Psychology

Explores how we think about, relate to, interact with, and influence each other. You will better understand such things as romantic attraction, prejudice, conflict, bullying, criminal activity, susceptibility to persuasion, and more. Social psychology studies both interpersonal and group dynamics.

Physiological Psychology

Examines the physical basis of human behavior and experience, as well as how the brain and nervous system work. You will address issues of intelligence, consciousness, addictions, and deviant behavior from a neurophysiological standpoint.

Developmental Psychology

Emphasizes theory and research on issues of human growth and development. Developmental psychology focuses on the impact that human growth and changes have on behavior over a person’s lifespan, including how they learn, mature, and adapt.

Popular Psychology Careers

Studying different types of psychology can lead to gratifying careers in several settings. For example, health service professionals might provide mental health care in clinics, hospitals, schools, or private settings. On the other hand, in applied settings, you might work in business, industry, non-profit organizations, or government sectors.

Many psychology careers will depend on the level of education you choose to pursue, but there are numerous professions in which those with a psychology degree can thrive, both in and outside the traditional counseling setting. Take a look at the most popular psychology careers:

Mental Health Counselor
Human Resources Specialist
School Counselor
Market Research Analyst
Forensic Psychologist
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
Clinical Psychologist
Grief Counselor
Developmental Psychologist
Caseworker
Social Worker

Best School for Psychology

Ottawa University’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program focuses on researching the theories and processes that are useful for understanding one's self and others, both as individuals and as members of various societies, groups, cultures, and organizations. Students are encouraged to think critically and are provided with ongoing support from staff and faculty. Upon learning to analyze information from various disciplines, you will be equipped with a strong foundation of transferable skills and have ample employment opportunities

Ongoing Student Support

Our program provides a caring, supportive community to all our students. OU’s faculty and Student Services Team are committed to answering your questions, providing direction, and connecting you with the resources you need to be successful. They help you determine the academic plan that’s right for you and ensure you have the tools and resources to cross the finish line. Michael Smith '20 appreciates the remarkable assistance and encouragement provided by Ottawa’s faculty and Student Services Team from the Overland Park campus, “I earned my degree online which was very easy due to the support of teachers, counselors, and tech support. They were a call or email away. Great support system to help me earn my degree at OU”.

Huge Employment Opportunities

A bachelor’s in psychology will qualify you to work in a wide variety of settings like community mental health centers, vocational rehabilitation offices, and correctional programs. Graduates often focus on particular demographics, such as aging adults, veterans, the disabled, those with developmental disorders, trauma survivors, or those with addictions. Completing a bachelor's in psychology at Ottawa paid off for Deanna Robbins ’20, “Earning my degree at Ottawa University not only allowed me to further my career, but it also gave me the confidence to pursue advanced employment opportunities”. Deanna is now the Fast Track Coordinator for RAMP, a Center for Independent Living (CIL).

Graduate Programs for Psychology Majors

A bachelor’s in psychology can also pave the way for graduate studies that help qualify you for senior-level roles as a psychotherapist, forensic psychologist, grief counselor, developmental psychologist, or another specialized type of psychology professional.

Ottawa University offers several related master’s programs to help advance your psychology career, including:

Master of Science in Addiction Counseling

Master of Arts in Counseling

Master of Arts in Education - School Counseling (AZ)

Education Specialist (EDS) in School Psychology (AZ)

Master of Arts in Human Resources (MAHR)