B.A. Community Psychology Degree Program
The B.A. Community Psychology degree program seeks to teach students to promote well-being, empower and invigorate communities, and support a sense of community and family-centric models of service and learning. Through an immersive curriculum focused on the integration of sociological, economic, cultural, environmental, political and global influences, this program will promote positive change, health and empowerment at multiple levels. The program is designed for students interested in doing community based, action-oriented research. Students take part in two immersive fieldwork courses where they will develop research projects that allow them to directly, positively affect local communities while pursuing their degree.
Concentrations
Generalist Concentration
The Generalist Concentration in Community Psychology provides a broad-based foundation for students who wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of community psychology principles and practices. This concentration prepares students to work in a variety of settings, addressing diverse community needs through an interdisciplinary approach. Students will gain skills in communication, human development, and social context analysis, enabling them to become effective agents of change in their communities.
Business Leadership and Social Impact Concentration
Business Leadership and Social Impact Concentration equips students with essential skills to become effective leaders in socially responsible organizations. This concentration emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity, ethical decision-making, and management principles in driving positive organizational and community impact. Students will learn to navigate the complexities of global business while fostering inclusive and ethical practices.
Early Childhood Trauma and Resilience Concentration
Early Childhood Trauma and Resilience Concentration focuses on understanding and addressing the impacts of trauma on young children. This concentration prepares students to support children through challenging experiences such as separation, loss, and cultural displacement. Emphasizing resilience and healing, the courses explore trauma-informed practices and strategies to foster healthy development and attachment in early childhood.
Equity and Advocacy in Community Psychology Concentration
Equity and Advocacy Concentration emphasizes the importance of social equity and advocacy in community psychology. Students will explore strategies to address systemic inequalities and promote social change. This concentration equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to create inclusive and equitable communities, focusing on the role of community psychologists as advocates for marginalized populations.
Sample Community Psychology Courses
Introduction to Community Psychology
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an introduction in to the field of community psychology. The history of the community psychology, research methodologies, theories and key concepts will be discussed. The ways in which individuals, social systems and communities are interconnected will also be discussed.
Mapping Communities
This course aims to begin unpacking some of these relationships around the concept of “community” by conducting a community-based mapping project. Maps can be powerful tools to tell stories and know about communities we live. By creating a framework to understand and represent our communities better, we can collect, analyze, and represent valuable knowledge about the communities around us. By developing a community-based mapping projects with these new technologies, students will reveal new insights about communities that were not so visible before mapping.
Community Mental Health
The purpose of this course is to provide you with an introduction in to the field of community mental health. This course will provide an overview of emerging issues in community mental health counseling, and will learn ways in which to address systemic issues within a person’s community and surroundings that affect their mental health.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Completed Application for Admission
- Application fee
- Personal statement
- Identification verification
- Proof of academic history
- Work or Volunteer Experience Summary showing three or more years of significant professional or life experience or an official transcript confirming 24 transferable credits from an institutionally accredited institution with a grade of C or better
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission and values of Pacific Oaks College
- Any degree specific requirements
Applicants with less than 24 credits of transferrable college coursework who do not demonstrate three years of significant professional or life experience outlined on their Work or Volunteer Experience Summary, are required to submit additional documentation:
- One letter of support from someone (a non-relative) familiar with your ability to be successful in this program
- An additional essay (500-750 words). In your essay, please answer the following questions:
- What life and professional experience do you possess that would enable you to be successful in the Pacific Oaks classroom focused on the application of experience to the course content?
- Why it is important to you to study this discipline at a school that emphasizes social justice, cultural humility, and respect for every individual? (Please refer to the mission and vision statements of Pacific Oaks College).
- Interview with a member of the Admissions Committee
Pacific Oaks College prepares you to make an impact in a variety of high-demand careers. Below, you will find possible career options and salaries associated with this degree.
Data is pulled by a third-party tool called Lightcast, which includes data from sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, and other government databases. The information below represents a regional and national career outlook related to this degree program*. Pacific Oaks College is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your career goals.
*Many degree programs are intended to fulfill licensure requirements in specific states. The data shown here may not represent the state where you currently reside. For more information on how this program is applicable to the requirements of your state, please speak with your admissions counselor.
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