Psychology 

Psychology is a science that is deeply rooted in both basic and applied research; it also has many clinical and educational applications. From delivering mental health care to individuals, to providing consultation to various communities and organizations, psychology as a discipline revolves around understanding mechanisms that shape behavior and mental processes. This understanding can be used towards improving human relations.

Psychology offers rigorous training in scientific method, exposure to thorough, objective research, the analysis of data, and the reporting of findings with clarity that prepares psychology majors for future careers.

The study of psychology, with its emphasis on evidence-based critical thinking, helps one become a better student of other subjects. The additional insight gained from psychology courses and a required internship helps students in general, whether they are functioning as parents at home, managers on the job, or professionals in other fields, to understand their own motivation and behavior in a more comprehensive way.

Studying psychology will help students develop people skills (communicating with and relating to individuals with diverse backgrounds), analytical skills (figuring out why a certain problem occurs and how to minimize or eliminate it), writing skills (writing a logically developed report), and research skills (using statistics, tables, and graphs to analyze problems and communicate relevant findings). Many of these skills are aspects of LaGuardia’s core competencies and studying psychology will enhance students’ proficiencies in these areas.

Students selecting this degree will be prepared to transfer into psychology programs at four-year institutions with a solid foundation in the discipline. Students who receive their AA in psychology will be exposed to an extraordinarily diverse field. The Program full time faculty members specialize in many diverse fields, among them, clinical, developmental, social and experimental psychology; they teach, advise and mentor the students majoring in psychology.

Visit our ePortfolio to learn about the Psychology Club, upcoming events, research opportunities, Psi Beta honor society and more.

In support of the LaGuardia’s mission to educate and graduate its students to become critical thinkers and socially responsible citizens, the College has undertaken a team approach toward advising, designed to support you in your major from orientation through graduation.

Your Advising Team is made up of faculty, professional and peer advisors. They will guide you at every step during your college career. They are ready to help you:

• Explore your major
• Select introductory and advanced courses
• Connect you with campus support services
• Prepare an educational and career plan

Visit the Advising page to learn more about when to get advised and how to prepare for an advising appointment, and check out the Advising Calendar for information sessions, events and more.

Career Profile

Psychology majors can apply the skills learned in a variety of work settings, from human services to business, criminal justice, health and recreation.

Skills of a Psychology major:

• Proficient in interpersonal communication
• Able to evaluate personal problems and make appropriate decisions
• Thorough understanding of human development and behavior
• Able to interpret and clearly explain psychological research and tests

Sample occupations:

Psychologistsstudy individual and group behavior and help people find solutions to personal, family, school, or work problems. They can be employed in academia as professors and researchers, as researchers and/or consultants in the private sector, or as counselors or clinicians.

Educational requirements: Psychologists normally need a doctorate, although school psychologists may be certified with a master's degree. Licensing is required of clinical psychologists.

Human Service Workers work in group homes and halfway houses, correctional, mental retardation and community mental health centers, family, child and youth service agencies, and programs concerned with alcoholism, drug abuse, family violence and aging.

Educational Requirements: HS graduates perform clerical duties; college degree in human services, counseling, psychology, rehabilitation or special education is necessary for counseling, program directors, and group home managers.

Counselors help people evaluate their interests and abilities and advise/assist them with personal, social, educational and career problems and concerns.

Educational Requirements: MA in counseling or related field usually required. BA in psychology, sociology or counseling may be accepted coupled with experience in social work or teaching.

Explore career possibilities on  Career Connect.

Transfer Opportunities

Visit the Articulation Agreements page to learn more about transfer opportunities.

Current Students
Log in to My LaGuardia to review your Degree Audit to find out what classes to take. Have questions about using Degree Audit? Visit LaGuardia's Degree Audit page for tutorials and how-to guides.

Prospective Students
Review the curriculum.

Please note: Students will be held to the program and degree requirements of the year that they enter the College, unless the student changes their major in a different academic year. In that case, the student will be held to the current year requirements as listed in the catalog. Learn more.

Degree Map
Use the Degree Map and DegreeWorks to assist in academic planning and creating your own graduation plan in ePortfolio. See a full list of Flexible Core courses on the Pathways page.

For information about this program’s retention and graduation rate visit the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment website page.