College of Science, Technology, and Health
Applied Psychology, BA with Mental Health 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 Mental Health emphasis focuses on the social, cultural, and psychological factors that influence individual and community well-being. This interdisciplinary program helps students understand how mental health is shaped by a variety of systems, environments, and lived experiences.
Students explore topics related to public health, social systems, and behavioral science while developing the skills needed to support individuals and communities. The program prepares graduates for work in applied settings such as schools, healthcare, and community organizations, as well as for advanced study in mental health-related fields.
Program Details Curriculum
Earning a Degree in Applied Psychology at Lindenwood University
The Applied Psychology major provides a strong foundation in psychological principles while emphasizing real-world application. Students complete coursework in key areas such as human development, abnormal psychology, motivation and emotion, and cultural psychology.
Students also gain experience in research methods and statistical analysis, developing the ability to evaluate behavioral data and apply findings in practical settings.
Within the Mental Health emphasis, students explore interdisciplinary topics such as public health, social justice, global health, and mental health and resiliency techniques. Additional coursework may include sociology, family dynamics, therapeutic recreation, and healthcare systems, providing a well-rounded understanding of how mental health is influenced across different contexts.
The program culminates in a senior capstone experiential learning course, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world environments.
Essential Skills and Insights
Lindenwood University Applied Psychology Faculty
The Applied Psychology faculty at Lindenwood University bring expertise across psychology, behavioral science, and related disciplines. Faculty members provide mentorship and support while helping students connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications.
Students develop skills in communication, critical thinking, behavioral analysis, and ethical decision-making. These competencies are essential for careers focused on supporting individuals and communities.
Experiential Learning, Real-World Impact
Students in the Applied Psychology program gain hands-on experience through coursework and applied learning opportunities. The Mental Health emphasis encourages students to explore how psychological principles are used in community-based and health-focused settings.
Experiential learning opportunities may include work in schools, healthcare environments, nonprofit organizations, or community agencies. These experiences help students understand how to support mental health and well-being across diverse populations.
Careers in Mental Health and Applied Psychology (BA)
What You Can Do with an Applied Psychology Degree from Lindenwood University
Graduates of Lindenwood University’s Applied Psychology program with a Mental Health emphasis are prepared for a variety of career paths in applied settings.
Many graduates pursue roles in community agencies, healthcare organizations, schools, and nonprofit settings, where they support mental health and well-being. Common roles include case manager, behavioral health technician, community outreach coordinator, and roles in social services.
This program also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in counseling, psychology, social work, public health, or related mental health fields.
Emphasis Areas
The Applied Psychology program offers a flexible structure that allows students to explore psychology through an interdisciplinary lens. The Mental Health emphasis is ideal for students interested in understanding well-being across individual, social, and systemic levels.
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 prepares students to make a meaningful impact in mental health and community-focused careers. With a strong emphasis on applied learning and real-world experience, graduates are ready to support individuals and communities or continue their education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Graduates can pursue careers in community agencies, healthcare settings, schools, and nonprofit organizations, supporting mental health and well-being. Common roles include case manager, behavioral health technician, community outreach coordinator, and other human services positions. This degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in counseling, psychology, social work, or public health.
This program is not a clinical licensure program but provides a strong foundation in mental health concepts and prepares students for graduate study in counseling, psychology, or social work.
Students develop skills in communication, behavioral analysis, critical thinking, and understanding mental health across diverse populations and systems.
The Mental Health emphasis focuses on well-being, public health, and social systems, while other emphases may focus more on general psychological theory or criminal justice applications.
Lindenwood’s Applied Psychology program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, combining psychology with areas like public health and sociology to provide a broader understanding of mental health. The program also emphasizes real-world application through experiential learning, including a senior capstone, so students graduate with both practical skills and a strong academic foundation.