Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology
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Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology
Application:
$0 application fee. No essays/exams.
National University’s Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology program offers a complementary alternative to the traditional science-based psychology major. With a holistic psychology degree, you’ll understand and appreciate an individual’s deepest values, emotions, inter- and intrapersonal relationships, and relationships with the physical and spiritual world.
Throughout the program, you’ll get a sense of the whole person by developing knowledge and skills important to health and growth, like self-reflection, consciousness, and creativity. Using the perspectives of existential-humanistic, phenomenon science, transpersonal, and scientific psychology, deeper layers will be revealed. As a graduate of the program, you’ll be prepared to help others increase acceptance and responsibility for their lives and will be well-equipped to pursue advanced study.
Degree Requirements
To receive a Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology degree, you must complete at least 180 quarter units as articulated below, 76.5 units of which must be completed at the upper-division level; 45 units must be completed in residence at National University, and a minimum 70.5 units of the University general education requirements. In the absence of transfer credit, you may need to take additional general electives to satisfy the total units for the degree.
National University awards credit in quarter units, with each academic year divided into four 12-week quarters.
Each quarter is made up of three 4-week classes, with one class per month. Under the current policy, 4.5 units of credit are awarded for courses.
Preparation for the Major
3 Courses
Introduction to Psychology
4.5 Quarter Units
A survey of the field of psychology that provides an overview of the scientific principles and theories in psychology. Topics include: biological psychology, abnormal behavior, motivation, emotion, sexuality and gender, and personality theory.
Probability and Statistics
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: MTH 12A and MTH 12B, or Accuplacer test placement evaluation
An introduction to statistics and probability theory. Covers simple probability distributions, conditional probability (Bayes Rule), independence, expected value, binomial distributions, the Central Limit Theorem, hypothesis testing. Assignments may utilize the MiniTab software, or text-accompanying course-ware. Computers are available at the University’s computer lab. Calculator with statistical functions is required.
Critical Thinking and Ethics
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Examines critical thinking and ethics, and their application to academic, personal, and professional situations. Covers systems of logical reasoning, critical analysis, and evaluation of message content, including supporting evidence, and logical fallacies. Discusses the morality and ramifications of decision-making in media industries.
*May be used to meet a General Education requirement.
Requirements for the Major
10 Courses
History and Philosophy Psych
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102; PSY 100
Explores the intellectual history and contemporary diversity of psychology in dialogue with a cultural understanding about the nature of the person. Topics include: psychology and science, philosophy of mind, functionalism, measurement, applied psychology, gestalt, behaviorism, the unconscious mind, phenomenological and existential psychology, clinical psychology and mental health, and qualitative perspectives.
Personal Growth & Development
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Integrates views of human nature and developmental change across the lifespan, including personality theory, therapeutic practice, and mystical traditions. Emphasizes humanistic-transpersonal growth through the integration of emotion with embodied knowledge. Experiential and theoretical focus on feminist, existential, Hindu, Buddhist, and Sufi views of self in relation to cultural norms and ideals.
Multicultural Mental Health
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Examination of the ways in which culture influences the definition of mental health and abnormal psychological functioning. Exploration of cultural effects on mental health and expressions of mental health problems. Review of different means of classifying mental disorders.
Spirituality and Global Health
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102 with a minimum grade of C. Mastery of Standard English is critical to success in this program.
Exploration of spirituality as a foundation for global well-being. Analysis of the philosophical and experiential dimensions of Buddhism, mystical Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Taoism, Vedic, Yogic, pagan, and indigenous wisdom traditions. Consideration of emerging paradigms supporting psycho-spiritual and pluralistic models for individual and global health.
Qualitative Analysis
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Examination of qualitative methods appropriate for phenomenological, observational and ethnological content in research. Discussion of philosophical/conceptual issues, connections among theoretical and practical frameworks, research questions, and methods of data collection and analysis. Practice activities involved in the planning and implementation of a research study.
Intimate Relationships
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Explores intimate relationships from multiple theoretical perspectives. Examines familial relations, romantic relations, and deep friendships. Discusses parallels and differences between queer and heterosexual relationships. Explores benefits and costs of intimate relationships. Discusses power dynamics, intimate violence, and relationship dissolution. Analyzes roles of evolution, gender, and culture, in shaping relationships.
Social Construction
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Exploration of the way in which knowledge, meaning, and understanding is constructed by groups. Examination of human behavior within groups with an emphasis on the idea that reality is constructed through interaction with other individuals, organizations, the environment, media, and language. Analysis of how social phenomena such as discrimination, implicit attitudes and decision-making are created, institutionalized and enforced by groups of people and become traditions.
Somatic Psychology
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Study of the relationship between mind and body. Exploration of the history of metaphysical dualism along with contemporary moves to view the mind and body as one with respect to psychological health. Included are Eastern, Western, and feminist perspectives.
Ecopsychology
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Exploration of the symbiotic relationship between humans and the natural environment. Examination of the synthesis of psychology and ecology. Exploration of historical and sociocultural factors influencing perceptions of the natural world and the health consequences of the objectification of nature.
Senior Project
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102; Completion of all core courses prior to enrollment in PSY 484 is required.
Development of a major cumulative project integrating knowledge gained in the program with an applied area of student interest. Covers empirical, theoretical, and/or experiential study of specific topics in integrative psychology with an emphasis on creative activity aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of human experience or promoting social and/or global change.
Electives Area 1
4 Courses
Students must select four courses from area 1.
Global Psychology
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: PSY 100
Covers the history, current status and future direction of cultural psychology theory and practice in the context of globalization. A critique of the Western bias of the field of psychology and of the effects of its application to non-European originated populations within the United States and around the world.
Psychology of Bereavement
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102; PSY 100
An exploration of the basic psychological concepts associated with death, dying, and bereavement. Course work will include lectures, discussions, exams, research, and experiential exercises.
Health Psychology
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102; PSY 100
An examination of the relationship between behavior, psychological variables, and physical illness and health. A strong emphasis is placed on health psychology theory, research and applications focused on wellness promotion and the prevention and behavioral treatment of illness.
Psychology of Consciousness
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Exploration of interdisciplinary theories of consciousness rooted in Eastern and Western philosophy, neuroscience, and quantum theory. Examination of how subjective experiences arise from objective brain processes, the neuroscience and neuropathy of consciousness, altered states of consciousness, mystical experiences and dreams, the effects of drugs and meditation, and the nature of self.
Play
4.5 Quarter Units
Examination of the role of play in learning, socialization, and mental health with an emphasis on cross-species comparisons of play. Consideration of cultural influences and the neurobiology of play.
Electives Area 2
1 Course
Students must select one course from area 2.
World Art
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
This course approaches the fundamentals of visual and applied arts from a global perspective and provides an overview of non-Western art from ancient times to the present. Specific areas of focus are the art of South Asia and the Islamic World, East Asia, Pre-Columbian Central and South America, Native North America, Africa and Oceania. Students learn how to look at, appreciate, and critically think and write about art from the perspectives of a diversity of cultures and historical eras.
World Music
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
An exploration of musical traditions and techniques in a variety of cultures, including Japan, India, Native America, South America, and Africa. Broadens students’ cultural understanding of music.
World Religions
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Major world religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, are surveyed in their historical, literary, and historical contexts. The sociology of religion is extensively addressed, and parallels in myths, rituals, conversion, and rites of passage are compared. Recent and contemporary religious trends are also addressed.
These courses may also satisfy GE requirements but may not be used for both.
Electives Area 3
1 Course
Students must select one course from area 3.
Intercultural Communication
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Looks at communication across cultures and considers how culture influences communication. Focuses on the dynamics of cross-cultural face-to-face interaction, conflict styles across cultures, societal influences on ethnocentrism and racism, cultural value orientations, non-verbal dimensions of communication, language interaction, stereotypes, relationship development, and cultural adaptation.
Interactive Storytelling
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102
Introduces the evolution of storytelling, from oral delivery to written and interactive texts, and transmedia publication. Examines the effects of this evolution on storytellers and participants. Offers hands-on creation of online identities and texts.
Gender in World History
4.5 Quarter Units
Prerequisite: ENG 102; HIS 234
Traces the ways masculinity and femininity have changed over time in various contexts around the world from 1492 to 1968. Explores the many ways people have constructed these two genders, infusing them with characteristics and values. Also investigates the ways gender becomes a discourse used in defining power relationships. This course demonstrates how gender can be a useful category for analysis when querying historical phenomena, including: empire building; revolutions, anti-colonial uprisings, and labor movements; the major utopian ideas of the 20th century; and post-war political and social realignments.
Career Outlook
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:
Please select the state you will work in to view job data in your area
- Top Jobs in this field
- Median Salary
- Job Openings
- Educational, Guidance, and Vocational Counselors
-
$61,646
avg. salary (USA) -
32,259
job openings (past yr.) past year
ALl of USAMost Desired Skills
- Social Work
- School Counseling
- Case Management
- Psychology
- Student Services
- Human Services
- Mental Health
ALl of USATop Companies Hiring
- Goodwill
- Year Up
- Encompass Health
- City Year
- McLaren Health Care
- Haven Behavioral Healthcare
- Management & Training Corporation
- Social Science Research Assistants
-
$56,113
avg. salary (USA) -
5,554
job openings (past yr.) past year
ALl of USAMost Desired Skills
- Social Sciences
- Political Sciences
- Economics
- Data Analysis
- Sociology
- Data Collection
- Psychology
ALl of USATop Companies Hiring
- The Borgen Project
- The University of Texas at Austin
- Pennsylvania State University
- University of Chicago
- Stanford University
- Cengage Learning
- Princeton University
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
-
$61,130
avg. salary (USA) -
13,852
job openings (past yr.) past year
ALl of USAMost Desired Skills
- Social Work
- Behavioral Health
- Mental Health
- Case Management
- Psychology
- Treatment Planning
- Crisis Intervention
ALl of USATop Companies Hiring
- Elevance Health
- Molina Healthcare
- CVS Health
- Telecare
- Rbha Services Limited
- ViaQuest
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs
- Healthcare Social Workers
-
$68,106
avg. salary (USA) -
20,552
job openings (past yr.) past year
ALl of USAMost Desired Skills
- Social Work
- Mental Health
- Medical Social Work
- Psychotherapy
- Marketing
- Treatment Planning
- Crisis Intervention
ALl of USATop Companies Hiring
- Headway
- Thriveworks
- LifeStance Health
- Amedisys
- Kaiser Permanente
- Geisinger Health System
- Hospice USA
- Social and Human Service Assistants
-
$45,082
avg. salary (USA) -
56,787
job openings (past yr.) past year
ALl of USAMost Desired Skills
- Social Work
- Human Services
- Psychology
- Case Management
- Discharge Planning
- Long-Term Care
- Disabilities
ALl of USATop Companies Hiring
- Sunrise Senior Living
- Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania
- Molina Healthcare
- Eben Ezer
- StoryPoint
- The Salvation Army
- Lcs
Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology (BAIP) Transition Program to MA in Consciousness, Psychology, and Transformation (MACNS)
To earn a Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology (BAIP) degree, students must complete at least 180 quarter units, including 76.5 upper-division units and 45 units in residence at National University. Additionally, a minimum of 70.5 units must satisfy the University’s general education requirements. If there is no transfer credit, additional general electives may be needed to meet the total unit requirement.
Students in the Transition Program must complete graduate-level coursework as part of the BAIP degree with a grade of B or better. These graduate-level courses will count as electives in the BAIP program but will not transfer as graduate credit to National University or any other institution. Grades earned in these courses will be factored into the student’s undergraduate GPA. To be eligible for the Transition Program, students must be within six courses of completing their BAIP and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
Students must apply for and begin the MA in Consciousness, Psychology, and Transformation (MACNS) program within six months of completing their final BAIP course. The MACNS program must be completed within four years, with no break exceeding 12 months. During the BAIP program, Transition Program students may take up to three MACNS courses (CNS 5010, CNS 5012, CNS 5013, CNS 5015, CNS 5030, CNS 5275, CNS 5017, CNS 5037, or CNS 5230) as electives. Prerequisites for these courses must be completed as part of the pre-approved 13 quarter units. To transition to the MACNS program, students must earn a B or better in these courses and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Admission to the MACNS program also requires a Personal Statement (6–8 pages) and a faculty interview. Students will be evaluated for full acceptance into the program based on these materials and their academic performance.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of National University’s BA in Integrative Psychology program, you will be able to:
- Articulate an understanding of human experience using major theories, concepts, and historical trends in psychology.
- Explain the dynamic relationships among nature, health, and humanity.
- Examine cultural and spiritual practices that influence self-awareness and well-being.
- Evaluate sociocultural contributions to personal growth, expression, and knowledge.
- Demonstrate skills in multiple modes of communication, presentations and projects utilizing different literary and methodological formats.
- Exhibit original learning by gathering and critically evaluating information using current technologies.
- Apply one’s knowledge using holistic approaches to solve a real-world problem.
Admissions
Transfer Students Welcome
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To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
Pricing
The cost shown is the estimated price for this degree. Many National University students are eligible for scholarships or financial aid, which may substantially lower a degree program’s cost.
You can visit our Tuition Estimator to see what scholarships and discounts are available and get more information about expected costs. You can also start the application process and receive counseling from our Enrollment team on the costs of your degree
Scholarships and Financial Aid
National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
Accreditations
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Why National University?
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 245,000 alumni worldwide.
“Balance life and business – may seem difficult but it’s not impossible. Stick with it and great things will follow.”
Cecilia M.,
Class of 2011
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Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.
Accelerate Your Career With NU
At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.
Our network of 245,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
FAQs
National University’s integrative psychology bachelor’s degree program can be completed online, meaning you won’t have to put your life on hold while working toward your degree. With small class sizes and faculty mentors who bring real-world experience, you’ll gain skills relevant to today’s job market. NU offers four-week courses, so you can focus on one subject at a time, one month at a time, and finish your degree faster.
Plus, with year-round enrollment, you don’t have to wait to apply, and you can begin your classes as soon as next month. As a military-friendly Yellow Ribbon school, active-duty servicemembers and their immediate family members have access to tuition discounts.
A bachelor’s degree in integrative psychology might appeal to those looking for a psychology-related career in settings beyond the typical clinical ones. This holistic psychology degree might also be suitable for students interested in people-oriented careers. Integrative psychology degree program graduates often go into fields such as:
- Human or social services
- Career/employment counseling
- Corrections or law enforcement
- Human resources
- Marketing or advertising
- Parks and recreation
To learn more about career opportunities and benefits of a bachelor’s in integrative psychology, read our blog post: What is a BA in Integrative Psychology?
SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics (viewed June 2025)
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
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