How a BA in Applied Psychology from LAPU Can Launch Your Human Services Career

Introduction: Why Applied Psychology Matters in Human Services

Applied psychology is more than just a field of study—it’s a foundation for understanding human behavior, society, and how we support individuals through change, crisis, and growth. If you're drawn to a career that serves people and communities, a BA in Applied Psychology can prepare you for meaningful, impactful roles in the human services field.

Meeting the Needs of a Growing Field

Today’s human services sector is expanding rapidly, with increasing demand for professionals trained in areas like mental health, addiction, community outreach, and counseling. Employers are seeking individuals who bring strong skills in critical thinking, assessment, empathy, data analysis, and communication—all of which are nurtured in LAPU’s applied psychology degree.

As society faces rising concerns around domestic violence, abuse, mental health crises, and educational equity, applied psychology professionals are becoming key contributors to wellness, advocacy, and policy development.

LAPU’s Role in Shaping Future Human Services Leaders

LAPU equips students with the knowledge, skills, and ethics necessary to lead in human services. With a faith-integrated curriculum, personalized mentorship, and a strong focus on service-oriented learning, LAPU prepares graduates not only for jobs—but for purpose-driven careers.

What Is a BA in Applied Psychology?

Definition and Core Components of the Degree

The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology is an undergraduate degree that explores the practical use of psychological principles to address needs and challenges in real-world settings. At LAPU, this program combines insights and practical skills from behavioral science, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and developmental psychology to give students a broad, interdisciplinary understanding of the field.

Students gain foundational training in research methods, clinical skills, ethical approaches, and psychological theory, while also diving into topics like human behavior, group dynamics, and culture. 

Skills You'll Develop in the Program

Throughout the degree, students build practical and transferable skills such as:

• Data analysis and interpretation using psychological research and evidence-based methods

• Strong written and verbal communication

• Solution-focused strategies and decision-making grounded in ethical and cultural understanding

• Application of psychological concepts to real-life scenarios in family systems, crisis, education, justice, community, and special populations.

Applied Psychology vs. Traditional Psychology

Unlike traditional psychology programs that focus primarily on a broad understanding of the wide scope of psychology, applied psychology emphasizes learning and practical application of psychological theory, skills, and tools used in a wide variety of contexts such as social work, education, criminal justice, family systems, and organizational management.

An applied psychology degree prepares students to make an impact without needing a clinical license, although it also lays the groundwork for graduate-level study that can lead to clinical licensure in fields like marriage and family therapy, clinical counseling, school counseling, social work, and psychology.

Career Opportunities with a BA in Applied Psychology

Entry-Level Roles in Human Services

Graduates of LAPU’s BA in Applied Psychology are well-positioned for a variety of entry-level careers in nonprofits, government agencies, educational institutions, and mental health organizations. Common roles include:

• Case manager

• Support specialist roles in mental health, behavioral services, or recovery programs

• Behavioral technician

• Crisis support coordinator

These roles involve working with individuals from all walks of life—addressing needs such as behavior management, mental health care, crisis management, basic needs, and emotional wellness.

Potential Job Titles and Work Environments

The skills gained from this online bachelor program open doors to work in:

• Youth and family services

• Probation and parole support programs

• Educational counseling

• Substance abuse recovery centers

• Faith-based outreach organizations

Graduates may find employment in schools, community clinics, social service organizations, correctional programs, non-profit organizations, or research laboratories, depending on their career goals.

Advancing Through Graduate Study or Licensure

While a bachelor’s degree offers a wide range of opportunities, some students may choose to pursue a master’s degree in psychology, social work (MSW), counseling, marriage and family therapy (MFT) or school counseling to gain advanced credentials. LAPU’s curriculum lays the foundation for these next steps by emphasizing research, ethics, practical skill application, biology, human development, culture, and cognition—core elements required for graduate success.

Why Choose LAPU for Your BA in Applied Psychology?

100% Online and Designed for Working Adults

LAPU’s online bachelor program in Applied Psychology is built for busy students juggling work, family, and other life responsibilities. With asynchronous coursework, you can access classes and complete assignments on your own time, wherever you have an internet connection (in any of our authorized states). This format is ideal for professionals looking to gain a new undergraduate degree or finish one they previously started.

Faith-Based Curriculum Rooted in Service and Ethics

Grounded in Christian values, LAPU’s program encourages students to approach human services work with compassion, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose. Courses emphasize ethical decision-making, diversity, justice, and servant leadership—all vital to careers in counseling, advocacy, and community support.

This alignment of faith and profession is especially valuable for those pursuing careers in social work, criminal justice, addictions, mental and behavioral health, or school counseling, where the goal is to empower individuals and communities through care, understanding, and psychological knowledge.

Personal Support from Faculty and Advisors

At LAPU, you're never just a number. Faculty members are not only professors, but also experienced professionals in fields like clinical psychology, education, and community leadership. With access to one-on-one mentorship and academic advising, you’ll receive the guidance you need to stay focused on your goals, understand your curriculum, and navigate the transition to your profession.

How LAPU Prepares You for a Human Services Career

Coursework Aligned with Real-World Needs

The applied psychology curriculum is designed to help you connect theory with practice. From studying behavioral patterns and group dynamics to learning about social systems, you’ll be prepared to apply psychological principles to real-life challenges in society.

Assignments include case studies, interactive projects, and role-playing scenarios that mimic the types of situations you’ll face in human services roles. You’ll explore key concepts such as motivation, perception, behavior, emotion, psychological theory, and cognition, as well as the use of technology, research, and data analysis in psychological evaluation.

Training in Trauma, Counseling, and Community Psychology

Courses like trauma and crisis intervention, cultural psychology, grief, psychology of emotions, and counseling techniques equip you with tools to work in mental health, rehabilitation, domestic violence shelters, and child development programs. You’ll gain valuable insight into topics like addiction, abuse, violence, and adult development, and learn to support people facing life’s toughest challenges.

Foundations for Graduate Programs (MA in Psychology, MSW, etc.)

If your goal is to pursue a graduate degree, LAPU prepares you with a solid academic foundation in psychological theory, research methods, statistics, and professional ethics. The BA in Applied Psychology is an ideal stepping stone toward master’s programs in counseling, psychology, social work, or criminal justice, serving as the first step toward licensure-based roles such as therapist or school counselor, which require a master’s degree and state certification.

Affordability, Flexibility, and Transfer-Friendly Options

Transparent Tuition with No Hidden Fees

LAPU is committed to providing cost-effective education. With clear tuition rates and no surprise fees, students can focus on learning, not financial stress. Whether you're a first-time student or returning to complete your degree, you’ll find LAPU’s pricing structure easy to understand and manageable.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Eligible students can apply for financial aid, grants, and scholarships to help reduce the overall cost of the degree. LAPU also offers resources to explore aid opportunities and guide you through the application process, helping you pursue your education without unnecessary debt.

Easy Transfer of Prior College Credits

Have prior coursework from another college? LAPU’s transfer-friendly policies make it easy to apply transfer credit toward your credit hours. This can shorten your path to graduation and ensure that your previous undergraduate education is recognized. Even if your background includes coursework in biology, philosophy, or mathematics, LAPU advisors will help map your pathway forward.

Career Support After Graduation

Resume Help, Job Search Coaching, and Interview Prep

Career success starts with the right tools. LAPU offers students and alumni access to career services that include resume reviews, job search strategies, LinkedIn profile optimization, and interview preparation—all tailored to human services professions.

Access to Industry Networks and Graduate School Guidance

Whether you're entering the workforce or pursuing graduate school, LAPU connects you to industry networks and graduate advisors. These professionals help students explore careers in social behavior, policy, rehabilitation, and nonprofit leadership, while also guiding those planning for advanced degrees.

Alumni Success in Mental Health, Social Services, and Nonprofits

LAPU graduates have found employment in schools, government agencies, mental health clinics, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits dedicated to community outreach and crisis intervention. Alumni frequently go on to become caseworkers, program coordinators, licensed professionals, and even professors—carrying their applied psychology training into leadership roles that serve others.

Conclusion: Make a Difference with a BA in Applied Psychology

If you're passionate about people, purpose, and psychological understanding, the BA in Applied Psychology from LAPU offers a powerful foundation for serving others. Through hands-on training, ethical leadership, and a flexible online model, LAPU helps you turn your calling into a career that truly makes a difference.

Explore LAPU’s BA in Applied Psychology and Start Your Human Services Career Today

Ready to launch your career in human services, mental health, or education? LAPU’s applied psychology degree combines academic excellence with real-world application—so you can graduate confident, prepared, and inspired.

Connect with an enrollment advisor today and take the first step toward your purpose-driven future.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is LAPU’s BA in Applied Psychology program fully online?

Yes! The BA in Applied Psychology at LAPU is offered 100% online with asynchronous classes. This flexible format allows you to complete coursework on your schedule—ideal for working adults or students with family and professional commitments.

What kinds of careers can I pursue with this degree?

A BA in Applied Psychology prepares you for various entry-level roles in human services, mental health, nonprofits, and education. Job titles may include case manager, behavioral health technician, community outreach coordinator, or support specialist. It’s also an excellent foundation for pursuing graduate degrees in counseling, psychology, or social work.

What’s the difference between applied psychology and general psychology?

While general psychology focuses on theory and research, applied psychology emphasizes real-world application. It uses psychological principles to solve problems and improve lives in fields like social services, education, healthcare, and criminal justice. LAPU’s program blends theory, research, and practice to equip you for impact.

Can I transfer previously earned college credits into this program?

Yes. LAPU is transfer-friendly and accepts credits from regionally accredited institutions. If you’ve completed an associate degree or taken courses in related disciplines like sociology, biology, or criminal justice, an advisor can help you apply those credits to reduce your time to graduation.

Does this degree prepare me for graduate school or licensure?

Absolutely. LAPU’s BA in Applied Psychology provides a solid academic foundation in research methods, statistics, theory, applied skill, and ethical practice—ideal preparation for graduate studies in fields like clinical psychology, counseling, school psychology, social work, or forensic psychology.