College of Science, Technology, and Health
Applied Psychology, BA with Foundations of Human Behavior Emphasis
Bachelor’s Degree offered in On-campus and Blended formats.
*On-campus format may require some online classes for degree completion.
The Lindenwood University Applied Psychology program with a Foundations of Human Behavior emphasis focuses on understanding the core principles of human behavior, cognition, and social interaction. This program is designed for students who want to explore how psychological theories apply to real-world communities and everyday life.
Students build a strong foundation in psychological science while developing the ability to analyze behavior, think critically, and apply their knowledge across a variety of professional settings. The program prepares graduates for advanced study in psychology or for careers that require an understanding of human behavior and social systems.
Program Details Curriculum
Earning a Degree in Applied Psychology at Lindenwood University
The Applied Psychology major provides a comprehensive foundation in psychological theory and application. Students complete coursework in key areas of psychology while developing skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking.
The curriculum includes topics such as human development, abnormal psychology, motivation and emotion, and cultural psychology. Students also gain experience in research methods and statistical analysis, equipping them with the tools to evaluate behavioral data and apply findings in real-world contexts.
Within the Foundations of Human Behavior emphasis, students explore areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, personality, leadership, and psychological testing. Additional coursework may include child psychology and parenting, allowing students to understand behavior across the lifespan.
The program culminates in a senior capstone experiential learning course, where students apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
Essential Skills and Insights
Lindenwood University Applied Psychology Faculty
The Applied Psychology faculty at Lindenwood University bring a strong combination of academic expertise and real-world experience in psychology and behavioral sciences. Faculty members serve as mentors, helping students connect theoretical knowledge to practical application.
Students develop skills in behavioral analysis, communication, research, and ethical decision-making. These competencies prepare graduates to understand and respond to complex human behavior in a variety of settings.
Experiential Learning, Real-World Impact
Students in the Applied Psychology program engage in hands-on learning experiences that emphasize real-world application. Through coursework and the senior capstone, students apply psychological concepts to real-life situations and community-based contexts.
Experiential opportunities may include work in educational settings, social service organizations, or community programs where understanding human behavior is essential. These experiences help students bridge theory and practice while preparing for future careers or graduate study.
Careers in Applied Psychology
What You Can Do with an Applied Psychology Degree from Lindenwood University
Graduates of Lindenwood University’s Applied Psychology program with a Foundations of Human Behavior emphasis are prepared for a variety of career paths or continued education.
Many graduates pursue roles in social services, human services, education, and organizational settings, where they apply their understanding of behavior, cognition, and social systems. Others pursue careers in roles that require strong communication, analytical thinking, and interpersonal skills.
This program also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in psychology, counseling, or related behavioral science fields.
Emphasis Areas
The Applied Psychology program offers a flexible structure that allows students to tailor their coursework to their interests within psychology and criminal justice. The forensic psychology and criminology emphasis provides a focused pathway for students interested in the intersection of behavior and the legal system.
Available Degree Options
The Applied Psychology program at Lindenwood University offers the following emphasis options:
- Applied Psychology, BA with Mental Health Emphasis
- Applied Psychology, BA with Forensic Psychology and Criminology Emphasis
- Applied Psychology, BA with Foundations of Human Behavior Emphasis
Build Your Future with Lindenwood
Lindenwood University’s Applied Psychology program equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand human behavior and apply it in meaningful ways. With a focus on theory, application, and career readiness, graduates are prepared to take the next step in their professional or academic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Students develop skills in critical thinking, behavioral analysis, research methods, communication, and understanding human cognition and social systems.
The Foundations of Human Behavior emphasis focuses on general psychological theory and human behavior across a wide range of settings, while forensic psychology applies psychology specifically to criminal justice and legal systems.
Graduates with an Applied Psychology degree focused on Foundations of Human Behavior can pursue careers in social services, human services, education, and organizational settings. Common roles include case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, and community outreach coordinator. This degree also prepares students for careers that require strong communication, critical thinking, and an understanding of human behavior, as well as for graduate study in psychology, counseling, or related fields.
Options for Lindenwood’s applied psychology degree include a forensic psychology and criminology emphasis, a foundations of human behavior emphasis, and a mental health emphasis.
Graduates can pursue careers in social services, human services, education, and organizational settings, or continue their education in graduate programs such as psychology, counseling, or behavioral sciences.