Belhaven University

What you'll study

The psychology programme provides a broad curriculum in the major areas of psychological science while encouraging integration of faith, ethics and professional practice. Coursework typically covers foundational subjects such as introduction to psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology and biological bases of behaviour. Students learn research design and data analysis through courses in psychological statistics and research methods, and are introduced to ethical and legal issues in the practice of psychology.

Upper-level options commonly include personality theory, assessment and testing, psychological measurement, clinical and counseling methods, group dynamics, lifespan development, and specialised electives (for example, addictions, child and adolescent therapy, or multicultural counselling). The programme usually culminates in a capstone experience — such as a senior seminar, a practicum/internship in a community setting, or an undergraduate research project — designed to synthesise classroom learning with supervised applied experience.

Entry requirements

Belhaven seeks applicants who demonstrate academic readiness and a commitment to the university's Christian mission. Typical admission requirements for the bachelor's psychology programme include a high school diploma or recognised secondary-school qualification, submission of transcripts, and a personal statement outlining educational and vocational goals. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered but policies can be flexible; mature or transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and any relevant references.

International applicants are normally required to show proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests (such as TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt. Additional materials that can strengthen an application include letters of recommendation, documentation of volunteer or work experience in human services, and an interview with an admissions adviser.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology from Belhaven prepares graduates for a range of entry-level roles and for postgraduate training. Common immediate career paths include case management, community outreach, residential care, behavioural health technician roles, human resources support, research assistant positions, and roles in nonprofit or faith-based organisations. Many graduates go on to pursue graduate degrees (MA, MS, MEd, PsyD or PhD) to become licensed counsellors, clinical psychologists, school psychologists or researchers; professional licensure for therapeutic practice generally requires a graduate degree and supervised post‑graduate experience.

Skills developed in the programme — critical thinking, data literacy, interpersonal communication and ethical decision-making — are also valued in education, business, public service and ministry settings.

Why study at Belhaven University

Belhaven offers a small‑class, liberal‑arts environment where psychology is taught within a Christian worldview. Students benefit from close faculty mentoring, opportunities for supervised practicum placements in local agencies, and coursework that emphasises both empirical methods and ethical, faith-informed perspectives on care. The university’s campus community and partnerships with regional service providers support hands-on learning and vocation exploration.

Belhaven’s programme is well suited to students who want personal attention, integration of faith and learning, and practical preparation for service-oriented careers or continued study in psychology and allied professions.