The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP), the leading nonprofit national graduate school devoted exclusively to psychology and related behavioral and health sciences, will offer an online Bachelor's of Arts Completion Program in Psychology for the first time starting fall 2014. Applications are now being accepted for the new program, which provides working adults with the opportunity to complete their education in psychology via a flexible online program that does not interfere with employment or family commitments. The Chicago School's program is unique in that it also provides students with a direct pathway to a wealth of graduate education opportunities in psychology or behavioral sciences, allowing them to further their professional growth.
According to a recent national survey by Pew Research Center in 2013, individuals between the ages of 25-32 with a bachelor's degree earn more than those with a two-year degree, and also those with some college, leading to a successful career path.
The Chicago School's program is highly competitive, offering a lower cost-per-credit hour than many institutions that have similar degree programs. At TCSPP, students also benefit from the institution's Engaged Professional Model of education, which provides for close interaction between students and faculty, thereby enhancing the learning experience. Furthermore, the program offers five distinct concentration areas including Business Psychology, Child & Adolescent Psychology, International Psychology, Social Services, and Generalist. Graduates may also have an opportunity to transition into several online master's degree programs offered by The Chicago School following the successful completion of their bachelor's degree, allowing for additional professional and educational growth.
"The Chicago School is excited to bring this opportunity to students and adults who have a vested interest in completing their undergraduate degree in psychology, and perhaps continuing their studies and training to become practitioners in the field," stated TCSPP's National President Dr. Nealon-Woods.
"The B.A. Completion Program is ideal for young adults and adult learners seeking to complete their education, students who have completed their associate's degree at a regionally accredited institution, or students who have finished their general education and would like to complete their core program/specialization in psychology," explained Dr. Brandy K. Blount, program director and department chair of the B.A. Completion Program.
The demand for psychological services in hospitals, schools, private businesses, social service agencies, and mental health centers is expected to drive strong growth in the employment sector over the next few years as the Affordable Care Act has resulted in the full implementation of the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Law, allowing for coverage of mental health and substance abuse disorders by insurance companies.
Additionally, graduates of the program will be equipped with a broad foundation in research skills, problem solving, decision making, communication, and critical thinking, thereby preparing them to pursue a variety of career options and serve in a wide range of professional contexts in a changing global economy.
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