Online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology
Explore the how and why of human behavior and prepare for a fulfilling career with the 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology from North Carolina’s University of Mount Olive. Our flexible, transfer-friendly program emphasizes real-life experience and networking opportunities, helping you establish valuable professional connections.
UMO’s Applied Psychology curriculum focuses on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving to prepare you for meaningful, high-impact work. You’ll build theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills for advocacy roles, social support positions, and careers dedicated to helping others realize their true potential.
With accelerated 7.5-week courses, multiple start dates, and no application fee, you can earn your Applied Psychology degree online while balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Applied Psychology Learning Outcomes
As an UMO Applied Psychology major, you will learn to:
Effectively communicate with others
Study human development across the lifespan
Analyze the motives and consequences of behavior
Applied Psychology Program Details
Our online Applied Psychology degree blends scientific research, ethical decision-making, and psychological theory with practical application to prepare you for diverse job opportunities. You’ll develop sought-after academic expertise and job-ready skills while benefiting from one-on-one mentorship from experienced faculty.
- 100% online
- Accelerated 7.5-week classes
- Multiple start dates
- One-on-one advising
- No application fee or entrance test requirements
How Is the Applied Psychology Degree Unique?
UMO’s Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology program emphasizes practical knowledge and real-world applications to ensure you’re ready to hit the ground running in your career.
Through case studies, faculty-led research, and professional networking, you’ll gain hands-on experience that enhances your employability. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current career or explore new job opportunities, our Applied Psychology program will help you stand out from the crowd.
Our Applied Psychology bachelor’s degree also provides a strong foundation for advanced study.
What Is Applied Psychology?
Applied psychology is the use of psychological principles to address real-world challenges across various fields. Rather than focusing solely on theory, applied psychology examines how human behavior influences mental health, social structures, education, and workplace dynamics.
Professionals in this field apply their expertise to craft intervention programs, enhance workplace productivity, inform public policy, and support individuals facing behavioral or emotional challenges. Their work is essential in counseling, human resources, criminal justice, marketing, healthcare, and beyond.
What Can You Do With an Applied Psychology Degree?
The field of psychology offers a wide range of career opportunities with strong job growth across multiple sectors, including mental health, social services, education, and business. The demand for professionals in psychology-related fields is increasing, particularly as the need for mental health services expands.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job opportunities for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will increase by 19% over the next decade, significantly outpacing the average for all occupations. Likewise, marriage and family therapist positions are expected to grow by 16%, while clinical, counseling, and school psychologist roles are projected to rise by 7%.
UMO’s online Applied Psychology program is designed to address this demand, with a particular focus on meeting the needs of underserved communities. By developing specialized skills in behavioral science, psychological assessment, and human services, our Applied Psychology majors are prepared for diverse career opportunities such as:
- Mental health technician
- Case manager
- Human resources specialist
- Substance abuse counselor (with additional certification)
- Behavioral health coordinator
- Rehabilitation specialist
- Community outreach worker
- Psychiatric technician
- Research assistant
- Youth counselor
- Social services assistant
- Crisis intervention specialist
- Market research analyst
- Probation or parole officer
- Health educator
- Victim advocate
Some psychology careers require advanced degrees and specialized training. Applied Psychology majors who pursue graduate study in psychology, counseling, or social work may qualify for roles such as:
- Licensed mental health counselor (LMHC)
- Licensed psychological associate (LPA)
- Marriage and family therapist (MFT)
- Clinical psychologist
- School psychologist
- Mental health counselor
- Research psychologist
- Industrial-organizational psychologist
- Social worker
- Sports psychologist
- Health psychologist
For those seeking to become licensed counseling professionals, UMO’s Master of Science in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health provides the advanced training needed to serve individuals, families, and communities with compassion and expertise.
More Information for Applied Psychology Majors
UMO’s online Applied Psychology program is ideal for students looking to apply psychology in professional and community settings. Our flexible degree blends theory with practical learning, helping you develop skills that translate directly to the workplace.
As an Applied Psychology major, you’ll gain essential hands-on experience through engaging coursework and case studies. At the same time, you’ll build your professional network and navigate career opportunities with help from our dedicated faculty.
Applied Psychology Courses
Our Applied Psychology curriculum covers behavioral science, research methods, and intervention strategies. You’ll study human development, behavioral intervention, social influences on behavior, counseling frameworks, and mental health approaches. In your senior capstone seminar, you’ll apply research and psychological principles in a culminating project.
View the full course requirements for this degree.
Degree SheetsAlumni Spotlight
Going back to school at 44, as a full-time working mom of three, was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made—but it was also the best. I had always loved psychology, but life led me down a different career path. It wasn’t until I watched my daughter benefit from therapy that I felt a powerful pull to finally answer my calling. I argued with every excuse—my age, my busy life, my fears—until I finally trusted that if God intended this for me, He would make a way.
When I reached out to UMO, everything fell into place. My credits transferred, I was welcomed immediately, and even as an online student, it felt like home. The professors knew my name, believed in me, and went above and beyond—even walking me through technical issues step-by-step when I felt overwhelmed. They didn’t just teach me; they invested in my future.
Through the Psychology program, I gained skills I never thought I could—public speaking, academic writing, and a deep foundation for counseling. I discovered my strengths and found the confidence to completely change careers while still in school. I work as a full-time counselor, building the life I once thought was out of reach. That’s why I returned to UMO for my graduate degree—because it wasn’t just a university; it was home.
To any busy, working adult thinking about going back to school: it will be hard—but it will be worth it. The pride you’ll feel, the example you’ll set for your children, and the support you’ll find at UMO will carry you farther than you can imagine.
Start Your Journey to a Rewarding Career in Applied Psychology
Turn your potential into purpose with the online Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology from North Carolina’s University of Mount Olive. Apply today and start building the skills and confidence to advance your career or pursue graduate studies.
