Study the human brain and behavior to learn how people think and build relationships. An Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Psychology provides you with the skills to pursue entry level opportunities in behavioral health, social services, and education.
At San Juan College, you can take your courses in person or online, giving you great flexibility. Our psychology associate degree transfers to many four-year universities, making it an excellent and affordable option on your way to earning a bachelor's degree.
Why Earn an Associate Degree in Psychology?
Human relationships make up the fabric of our communities. Studying psychology gives you greater insight into how people think and behave. Explore important concepts such as:
- Human development
- Personality theories
- Cognition (how people think)
- The power of emotions
A psychology degree can open the door for many careers dealing with people and their connections to the world around them. You can apply psychological principles in various fields, from therapy to marketing. With advanced training, you can pursue a rewarding career as a counselor or psychologist.
Why Study Psychology at San Juan College?
Online and In-Person Classes
Get the flexibility you need to complete your degree. Our psychology associate degree is a two-year program that you can take entirely online, on campus, or a combination of both. Attend classes in a way that fits your schedule. Our professors are experts at teaching in person and online, meaning you will get the same great education whichever way you attend class.
Ready to Transfer
With SJC's Psychology AA degree, you will be ready to transfer to earn your bachelor's degree at a four-year university in just two years. Learn in our small classes and get individual attention from our caring faculty. Their expertise will help you develop your knowledge and research skills.
Research and Practical Experience
As an SJC psychology student, you can do more than take classes. We offer service learning and internship opportunities. You will have the opportunity to obtain real-world experience educating the community about the importance of mental health.
You can also conduct research projects under the supervision of a mentor. Our psychology students have won Excellence Awards at the San Juan College Student Showcase and Research Conference. Some have even presented work at regional and national conferences.
Affordable Pathway to a Bachelor's Degree
Because of SJC's low tuition rates, the Psychology AA two-year degree is an excellent investment for you as you prepare to transfer to a four-year institution. Our rigorous, high-quality education will prepare you for your bachelor's degree and future career. You may also qualify to get your degree tuition-free through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.
What You Will Learn in the Associate Degree in Psychology
The Psychology AA provides both knowledge and practical experience that prepare you for further education and your future career. Learn important concepts and practice research skills in courses such as:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Statistical Principles for Psychology
- Psychology as a Profession
You will also choose from electives such as:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Brain and Behavior
- Cognitive Psychology
- Drugs and Behavior
- Educational Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Performance Psychology
- Personality Psychology
- Psychology of Human Sexuality
- Social Psychology
With your degree, you can transfer to a four-year institution to receive a bachelor's degree in psychology. This degree can be taken completely online, on campus, or a combination of the two.
Transfer Options for Psychology Students
Be prepared to earn a bachelor's degree at a four-year university with San Juan College. With the Psychology AA, you may be able to enter as a junior majoring in psychology. If you wish to transfer, we strongly encourage you to meet with your academic advisor. They will help coordinate your coursework at San Juan College with the requirements of the transfer institution.
Previous SJC psychology degree students have transferred to:
- Fort Lewis College
- Grand Canyon University
- New Mexico Highlands University
- Northern Arizona University
- Southwest Minnesota State University
- The University of New Mexico
- Western New Mexico University
Learn More About the Transfer Process
Join Psi Beta
San Juan College is home to a chapter of Psi Beta, the national honor society in psychology for community colleges. Psi Beta recognizes academic excellence and helps students grow as scholars, leaders, and community members. As a member, you will connect with other motivated students, take part in research, and contribute through service projects. Joining Psi Beta strengthens your academic journey and prepares you for future studies and careers in psychology.
Get Involved in Psychology Clubs
Your psychology journey at San Juan College is about more than the classroom. The Social Sciences Club helps you develop leadership skills, explore career opportunities, and serve the community. It also hosts our Psi Beta chapter, giving students additional recognition and support.
The Active Minds Club promotes mental health awareness and builds meaningful connections on campus through events, outreach, and peer support. Members also lead the annual Suicide Awareness Event in April, helping create a supportive campus community.
Careers and Outcomes
You can apply your psychology and research skills in many fields. Our psychology associate degree graduates can become:
- Advising and/or counseling program staff
- Behavioral and mental health technician or aide
- Child or family advocate
- Correctional or probation officer
- Education/teaching assistant
- Home care aide
- Human resources staff
- Psychiatric technician
- Research assistant
- Social services assistant
If you transfer and complete a bachelor’s and even a graduate degree, you can find even more job opportunities, such as:
- Academic advisor
- Behavior analyst
- Consultant
- Educator or child care worker
- Marketing, advertising, and sales
- Mediator
- Personal or life coach
- Researcher
- Social worker
- Therapist or counselor
Next Steps
To enroll in the Associate of Arts in Psychology courses, you must first apply to San Juan College. It's easy, and you can apply online at any time!
If you are already a student at San Juan College, talk to your advisor about our online and in-person Psychology AA program. You can also discuss your transfer options.
