Counseling and applied psychological science is a specialty in promoting psychological well-being. Counselors and applied psychologists provide the tools and resources necessary for individuals, families and organizations to cope with everyday problems. The BS program in counseling and applied psychological science provides foundational training in counseling theories, career and lifespan development, ethics and research methods. A unique aspect of the program is its attention to cultural diversity that includes age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion and socioeconomic status.
Graduates may qualify for employment in community agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation centers and other behavioral healthcare delivery settings to support counselors and other mental health professionals. Graduates will be prepared for careers as behavioral health technicians, vocational rehabilitation assistants, human service workers, life-skills instructors and others. Graduates will not be license-eligible as professional counselors but will be well-prepared to enter advanced graduate degree programs in counseling and related fields.
Degree offered
Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (BS)
Integrative Sciences and Arts, College of
Location
Polytechnic
Major map
A major map outlines the degree’s requirements for graduation.
Application requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.Freshman
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Affording college
Scholarships
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Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career outlook
A degree in counseling and applied psychological science prepares students for careers in various settings:
- government (sales and marketing, human resources management)
- mental health professions (youth counselor, substance abuse counselor, behavioral health technician)
- social services (high school psychology teacher, occupational analyst)
The degree also provides an excellent foundation for graduate study in fields such as counselor education, counseling or clinical psychology, social work and family studies.
Example careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors | 22.3% | $39,270 |
| Health Educators | 12.2% | $50,430 |
| Community Health Workers | 14.9% | $34,870 |
| Counseling Psychologists | 19.6% | $68,900 |
| Counselors, All Other | 11% | $44,830 |
| General and Operations Managers | 7.1% | $97,270 |
| Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors | 8.2% | $53,370 |
| Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners, All Other | 12% | $73,400 |
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | 19% | $90,210 |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 5.8% | $56,310 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | 16.3% | $42,490 |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | 14.8% | $48,040 |
| Mental Health Counselors | 19.6% | $40,850 |
| Neuropsychologists and Clinical Neuropsychologists | 9.8% | $92,110 |
| Occupational Therapists | 26.5% | $78,810 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 42.7% | $56,950 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 40.6% | $54,410 |
| Physician Assistants | 30.4% | $95,820 |
| Psychiatric Aides | 5.3% | $26,220 |
| Psychiatric Technicians | 5.2% | $31,130 |
| Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary | 15.8% | $68,690 |
| Recreational Therapists | 12% | $44,000 |
| Registered Nurses | 16% | $66,640 |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | 9% | $34,380 |
| School Psychologists | 19.6% | $68,900 |
| Social and Community Service Managers | 9.5% | $62,740 |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | 6.2% | $42,120 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | 18.9% | $41,380 |
| Therapists, All Other | 23.6% | $55,900 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation