4 answers
B
Student
Tyler, Texas
1
Question
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Can I still become a child psychologist if I pursue a (B.S.) instead of (B.A.)?
I'm struggling, because the college I got accepted into doesn't offer a bachelor in arts only in science, but would I still be able to become a child psychologist?
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4 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, B !
Yes, you most certainly can pursue Psychology by receiving a Bachelor of Science degree. You do not need a Bachelor of Arts degree for that career. Some colleges do offer the Bachelors of Arts Degree through their Social Science division, but you will do great with a B.S Degree, so there's nothing to worry about.
All colleges are different and don't always place subjects under Arts or Science, so it is normal that some colleges offer Psychology as a B.S. degree and some offer it as a B.A. degree. The important aspect of this is that you major in Psychology.
You should always verify information with your particular college. I think that one difference between a B.A. and a B.S. is that with a B.A. Degree, there is room to take more electives. With the B.S., students focus on the subjects of their major mostly with some electives. I have my degree in Theatre, a Bachelor of Arts, and I do recall taking a lot of electives connected to acting, singing and dancing, along with required general education courses and required major courses.
Now consider this generalized information. Many colleges do put Psychology under the B.A. degree because Psychology is considered by some to fall under Social Science and the Social Sciences being considered Humanities. But Psychology can also fall under Applied Science which then makes it fall under the Bachelor of Science area. It all depends on what the particular college chose to do.
So, please do not worry at all. You will be taking the right path with a Bachelor of Science degree and learn all you'll need to know. Your degree will be valid and acceptable if you decide to continue for your Masters Degree. So it's all good !
Best wishes in all you do and I wish you an enjoyable college journey !
Yes, you most certainly can pursue Psychology by receiving a Bachelor of Science degree. You do not need a Bachelor of Arts degree for that career. Some colleges do offer the Bachelors of Arts Degree through their Social Science division, but you will do great with a B.S Degree, so there's nothing to worry about.
All colleges are different and don't always place subjects under Arts or Science, so it is normal that some colleges offer Psychology as a B.S. degree and some offer it as a B.A. degree. The important aspect of this is that you major in Psychology.
You should always verify information with your particular college. I think that one difference between a B.A. and a B.S. is that with a B.A. Degree, there is room to take more electives. With the B.S., students focus on the subjects of their major mostly with some electives. I have my degree in Theatre, a Bachelor of Arts, and I do recall taking a lot of electives connected to acting, singing and dancing, along with required general education courses and required major courses.
Now consider this generalized information. Many colleges do put Psychology under the B.A. degree because Psychology is considered by some to fall under Social Science and the Social Sciences being considered Humanities. But Psychology can also fall under Applied Science which then makes it fall under the Bachelor of Science area. It all depends on what the particular college chose to do.
So, please do not worry at all. You will be taking the right path with a Bachelor of Science degree and learn all you'll need to know. Your degree will be valid and acceptable if you decide to continue for your Masters Degree. So it's all good !
Best wishes in all you do and I wish you an enjoyable college journey !
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
B
You're welcome. I am glad it could help !
Michelle M.
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
120
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
B- Oh my gosh, yes of course! I studied fine arts and art history. BA, BS, or BFA whatever the route you take, you can get there. You will likely need at least three pre-requisite courses in psychology to apply for a graduate degree in counseling or psychology. You can do these while you are gaining your undergraduate degree, or afterwards. Of course, since you know you are interested in a specific career path, it may be useful to concentrate your studies on such subjects as psychology, sociology, anthropology, child development, and even gender studies. Psychology is considered a social science. After undergrad, you may choose to enter into a doctorate program or start with a master's degree and then the additional doctorate degree. Both graduate programs will be intensive and include many internship opportunities. You will leave with hundreds of experiential hours working with clients. If you choose a master's program, look at ones offering a child and family path (leading to a CFT license). Many practitioners start with an MA, gain work experience and then return to pursue the PhD or PsyD. Other options to consider (alternatives to child psychology)- pediatric occupational therapy, social work, and school counseling (re: graduate school). Some undergraduate schools offer social work or social services as an undergraduate degree. There are a multitude of ways to do this! You can also boost your studies with volunteer work or paid work within the social services- look at nonprofits in particular working with youth and families or with a children's hospital. There is nothing better than hands-on experience. I wish you the best!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
616
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello B,
Absolutely! You can still become a child psychologist with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) instead of a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). Both degrees provide a strong foundation for graduate studies, which is what ultimately matters for becoming a licensed psychologist.
A B.S. often focuses more on research, science, and technical skills, which can actually be an advantage if you're interested in understanding the scientific side of psychology or pursuing research later in your career. On the other hand, a B.A. might include more liberal arts or communication-focused courses, but both degrees are equally valid for pursuing graduate programs in psychology.
What’s most important is the coursework and experience you gain during your undergraduate years. Make sure your program includes core psychology classes like developmental psychology, child psychology, and research methods. Also, take advantage of opportunities to volunteer, intern, or work in settings that involve children—this hands-on experience will strengthen your application for graduate school.
You’re on the right path, and the degree you choose now won't limit your dreams of becoming a child psychologist. Stay focused, and remember that your passion and dedication will make the biggest difference. You’ve got this!
Best wishes!
Absolutely! You can still become a child psychologist with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) instead of a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). Both degrees provide a strong foundation for graduate studies, which is what ultimately matters for becoming a licensed psychologist.
A B.S. often focuses more on research, science, and technical skills, which can actually be an advantage if you're interested in understanding the scientific side of psychology or pursuing research later in your career. On the other hand, a B.A. might include more liberal arts or communication-focused courses, but both degrees are equally valid for pursuing graduate programs in psychology.
What’s most important is the coursework and experience you gain during your undergraduate years. Make sure your program includes core psychology classes like developmental psychology, child psychology, and research methods. Also, take advantage of opportunities to volunteer, intern, or work in settings that involve children—this hands-on experience will strengthen your application for graduate school.
You’re on the right path, and the degree you choose now won't limit your dreams of becoming a child psychologist. Stay focused, and remember that your passion and dedication will make the biggest difference. You’ve got this!
Best wishes!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6338
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello B!
Can I still become a child psychologist if I pursue a (B.S.) instead of (B.A.)?
Understanding the Educational Pathway to Becoming a Child Psychologist
To determine whether you can become a child psychologist with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree instead of a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, it is essential to understand the educational requirements and pathways for this profession.
Educational Requirements for Child Psychologists:
Typically, becoming a child psychologist requires advanced education beyond an undergraduate degree. Most positions require at least a master’s degree or doctoral degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field. This means that regardless of whether you earn a B.S. or B.A., you will need to pursue further education.
Differences Between B.S. and B.A. in Psychology:
A Bachelor of Science in Psychology often emphasizes quantitative research methods, statistics, and scientific principles related to psychology. It may include more coursework in biology and neuroscience.
A Bachelor of Arts in Psychology usually focuses more on the social sciences, including qualitative research methods and broader liberal arts education.
Both degrees can provide foundational knowledge in psychology; however, the choice between them may affect your specific skill set and interests.
Graduate Programs Acceptance:
Graduate programs in psychology typically accept students from both B.S. and B.A. backgrounds as long as they meet prerequisite coursework requirements. These prerequisites often include introductory psychology courses, statistics, research methods, and possibly courses in developmental psychology or abnormal psychology.
It is crucial to check the specific admission requirements for the graduate programs you are interested in since some may have preferences or additional requirements based on your undergraduate coursework.
Gaining Relevant Experience:
Regardless of your undergraduate degree type, gaining relevant experience through internships, volunteer work, or research assistant positions can enhance your application for graduate school and future employment opportunities as a child psychologist.
Engaging with children through educational settings, counseling centers, or community organizations can provide valuable insights into child development and psychological practices.
Licensure Requirements:
After completing your graduate education (master’s or doctorate), you will need to fulfill licensure requirements specific to your state or country to practice as a psychologist. This often includes passing licensing exams and completing supervised clinical hours.
Conclusion:
In summary, pursuing a B.S. instead of a B.A. does not preclude you from becoming a child psychologist; what matters more is how well you prepare for graduate studies and gain relevant experience during your undergraduate years.
In conclusion, you can still become a child psychologist if you pursue a (B.S.) instead of (B.A.), provided that you continue your education with an appropriate graduate program and meet all necessary licensure requirements.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides comprehensive resources regarding educational pathways in psychology, including information on degree types and licensure requirements for psychologists.
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP): NASP offers guidance on becoming school psychologists specifically focusing on working with children and adolescents within educational settings.
Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP): CACREP outlines standards for counseling programs which are relevant for those pursuing careers involving psychological services for children and adolescents.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Can I still become a child psychologist if I pursue a (B.S.) instead of (B.A.)?
Understanding the Educational Pathway to Becoming a Child Psychologist
To determine whether you can become a child psychologist with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree instead of a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, it is essential to understand the educational requirements and pathways for this profession.
Educational Requirements for Child Psychologists:
Typically, becoming a child psychologist requires advanced education beyond an undergraduate degree. Most positions require at least a master’s degree or doctoral degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field. This means that regardless of whether you earn a B.S. or B.A., you will need to pursue further education.
Differences Between B.S. and B.A. in Psychology:
A Bachelor of Science in Psychology often emphasizes quantitative research methods, statistics, and scientific principles related to psychology. It may include more coursework in biology and neuroscience.
A Bachelor of Arts in Psychology usually focuses more on the social sciences, including qualitative research methods and broader liberal arts education.
Both degrees can provide foundational knowledge in psychology; however, the choice between them may affect your specific skill set and interests.
Graduate Programs Acceptance:
Graduate programs in psychology typically accept students from both B.S. and B.A. backgrounds as long as they meet prerequisite coursework requirements. These prerequisites often include introductory psychology courses, statistics, research methods, and possibly courses in developmental psychology or abnormal psychology.
It is crucial to check the specific admission requirements for the graduate programs you are interested in since some may have preferences or additional requirements based on your undergraduate coursework.
Gaining Relevant Experience:
Regardless of your undergraduate degree type, gaining relevant experience through internships, volunteer work, or research assistant positions can enhance your application for graduate school and future employment opportunities as a child psychologist.
Engaging with children through educational settings, counseling centers, or community organizations can provide valuable insights into child development and psychological practices.
Licensure Requirements:
After completing your graduate education (master’s or doctorate), you will need to fulfill licensure requirements specific to your state or country to practice as a psychologist. This often includes passing licensing exams and completing supervised clinical hours.
Conclusion:
In summary, pursuing a B.S. instead of a B.A. does not preclude you from becoming a child psychologist; what matters more is how well you prepare for graduate studies and gain relevant experience during your undergraduate years.
In conclusion, you can still become a child psychologist if you pursue a (B.S.) instead of (B.A.), provided that you continue your education with an appropriate graduate program and meet all necessary licensure requirements.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides comprehensive resources regarding educational pathways in psychology, including information on degree types and licensure requirements for psychologists.
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP): NASP offers guidance on becoming school psychologists specifically focusing on working with children and adolescents within educational settings.
Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP): CACREP outlines standards for counseling programs which are relevant for those pursuing careers involving psychological services for children and adolescents.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
B