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Bachelor's in Applied Psychology

Apply the power of psychology.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology designed for working adults at any stage of their education. Whether you’re starting fresh or bringing in previous credits, you’ll explore the science of human behavior and apply it to real-world settings in mental health, education, business, and social services.

The program, offered through the School of Advancing Studies, draws on organizational and applied social psychology to prepare you for careers in counseling, healthcare, and beyond—or for graduate study in psychology or counseling. You’ll benefit from the same rigorous education that underpins Minnesota’s largest university program for preparing licensed mental health professionals.

Following the American Psychological Association (APA) Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major, our online Applied Psychology bachelor’s degree program meets the highest standards of academic and professional excellence. Take advantage of our generous transfer policy and move forward toward your goals.

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$440

cost per credit

SeptOctJan
MarMayJune

start dates

Online

$440

cost per credit

SeptOctJan
MarMayJune

start dates

Online

B.S. in Applied Psychology Program Highlights

  • No need to wait. With six start times annually, begin your journey today.
  • Fast-track to a graduate degree by taking courses that count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Ask your admissions counselor for details.
  • Check if your employer is part of our Trusted Partnership Program, offering scholarships through our partners with several companies, school districts, and organizations. Learn more.

What You'll Learn in the B.S. in Applied Psychology Program

  • Psychological principles, theories, and concepts
  • Scientific reasoning to interpret psychological phenomena
  • Techniques for research design and interpretation
  • Ethical standards in science and practice
  • Values impacting social change globally

Bachelor’s to Graduate Bridge Pathways

Fast track your path to a master’s degree — and even a doctoral degree at Saint Mary’s. Enroll in graduate-level courses while completing your bachelor’s degree. Ask your transfer counselor for details.

Why pursue a graduate degree simultaneously?

  • No extra cost — your current bachelor’s completion tuition remains unchanged while taking graduate classes as an undergraduate
  • Meet and network with graduate professionals
  • Choose the pathway that best fits your career goals

A degree opens more doors.

Kim Schroeder considered going back to school for a while. “Even before I became interested in addiction, when I worked in the medical field, I would look at supervisor positions, but think, ‘Oh, but I don’t have a bachelor’s degree.’” She knew having a bachelor’s degree would lead to more employment options.

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Virtual Information Sessions

How can I transfer my credits? How long will it take me to finish? Sign up for an information session to get these questions answered and more or watch a recorded session on your time.

Accelerate Your B.S. Degree

Take advantage of our credit transfer policy to possibly avoid retaking classes and speed up your degree completion. 

  • Your past credits never expire and are always eligible 
  • Transfer up to 90 credits (75% of your bachelor of science degree)
  • Associate degree or technical college credits are accepted 
  • Get credit for your military experience and training  

Learn more about accepted credits or submit your transcripts for a personalized degree plan.

How to apply for the B.S. in Applied Psychology Program

Saint Mary’s accepts applications for online bachelor degree programs year-round. You can start your program in the fall, spring, or summer semester once accepted.

To apply, you’ll need to provide:

  • Completed application form
  • Official transcripts
    • If you’ve completed college-level coursework: submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended.
    • If you haven’t completed any college-level coursework: submit an official high school transcript showing your diploma.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable) Interview with a program administrator (if requested)

It must be sent directly to Saint Mary’s University by the issuing institution. International transcripts must be evaluated course-by-course by an approved credential evaluation service, such as:

  • World Education Services (WES)
  • Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
  • Educational Perspectives
  • One Earth International Credential Evaluators
  • Any NACES member (naces.org)

Send Materials To:

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Office of Admission

2500 Park Avenue

Minneapolis, MN 55404

  • Fall Term 1-August 1
  • Fall Term 2-October 1
  • Spring Term 1-December 1
  • Spring Term 2-February 1
  • Summer Term 1-April 1
  • Summer Term 2-June 1

Tuition & Financial Aid

Only pay for the credit you need with the credits you’ve already earned. Plus, there are resources to help cover the cost of your degree, including loans, grants, and exclusive Saint Mary’s financial aid programs. Our counselors will guide you to find a financial aid plan that works for you.

Course Catalog

In addition to foundational courses, you’ll take courses such as: 

  • Abnormal Psychology 
  • Learning and Cognition 
  • Brain and Behavior

The course catalog provides complete information about course requirements.

Careers & Salary

A bachelor’s degree in applied psychology can serve as a foundation to prepare you for graduate study in counseling, clinical or school psychology, and business or law school.

Human Resources Specialist

$62,290 per year*

Training and Development Specialist

$61,570 per year*

Behavioral Health Counselor

$48,520 per year*

Related Programs

Advance your career with flexible online programs designed for busy adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • At Saint Mary’s, we want you to succeed, and we help you do so, inside and outside of the classroom:

    Student Central: Your one stop for student services

    Library: Resources and services are available 24/7 to all students.

    Writing Center: Offers virtual and face-to-face services to support students

    Career Services: Can help you develop your career-readiness skills at any point in your education

  • The only thing virtual about your online experience is the classroom. Our flexible online programs offer the rigor and reputation you expect from Saint Mary’s. 

    Explore more here.

  • Life gets busy. Whether you’re raising a family, pursuing your career, or playing an active role in your community, we know you want to keep up with what you love while you take the next step in your career. That’s why Saint Mary’s online programs are flexible and designed to fit your demanding life.

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Sources and Disclaimer

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Human Resouce Specialists at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/human-resources-specialists.htm (visited February 14, 2023).
  2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Training and Development Specialists at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm (visited February 14, 2023).
  3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm (visited April 19 2023).
  4. All other career data on this page can be found at Lightcast (lightcast.io) Q1 2023 Data, September 2022-February 2023.