Program Overview

Overview of the Online Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science

The Online Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science is a unique program designed for those interested in promoting psychological well-being. This program provides an advanced understanding of topics such as cultural diversity, addiction dynamics, counseling strategies, professional ethics, and more.

Program Details

• The program consists of 40 classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks, and totals 120 credit hours.
• The next start date for the program is 01/12/2026.
• The program includes a 135-hour supervised, hands-on capstone experience to network with community behavioral health specialists and grow professional identity.

Skills Developed

The program equips students with foundational training in trauma, lifespan development, group counseling, and professional ethics. It also focuses on cultural diversity, covering aspects such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, and socioeconomic status. Additionally, students gain transferable skills, including:

• Adaptability
• Analytical skills
• Cultural sensitivity
• Interpersonal skills
• Leadership
• Problem-solving
• Research methods
• Understanding group dynamics

Concentrations

The program offers three online concentrations:

• Counseling military members and veterans: Exploring the distinct challenges faced by military members and veterans and learning how to address these issues effectively.
• Sports and performance counseling: Discovering the psychological challenges athletes face after a major injury or retiring from their sport and examining why humans are captivated by sports.
• Substance abuse and addictions: Focusing on counseling strategies for clients experiencing addiction, including screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

Career Opportunities

Upon graduation, students are competitive candidates for careers in behavioral health care delivery settings, such as community agencies, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Career examples include:

• Addictions Counselor
• Counselor (General)
• Guidance Counselor
• Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
• Mental Health Counselor
• Psychology Professor
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• School Psychologist
• Social Services Director

Faculty and Expertise

Faculty in the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts are committed to research and exploration in their fields. Many are recognized nationally and internationally for their achievements, including:

• American Educational Research Association Fellows
• American Psychological Association Fellows
• Fulbright scholars

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to ASU, applicants must:

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have completed at least 14 specific courses, including math, English, lab sciences, social sciences, and fine arts or career and technical education
• Meet at least one of the following:
  • Top 25% in their high school graduating class
  • 3.00 GPA in competency courses
  • ACT score of 22 for Arizona residents (24 nonresidents) or SAT Reasoning score of 1120 for Arizona residents (1180 nonresidents)

Tuition and Financial Aid

ASU offers a tuition calculator to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees. Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation and Rankings

ASU is a globally recognized university, repeatedly awarded peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report and other respected organizations. It is ranked:

• #1 in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years
• Top 10 for best online bachelor’s programs
• Top 10% for best global universities

Conclusion

The Online Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science at ASU provides a comprehensive education in counseling and applied psychological science, preparing students for careers in behavioral health care and beyond. With its focus on cultural diversity, transferable skills, and hands-on experience, this program is ideal for those passionate about promoting psychological well-being.