Liberal Arts Psychology Degree: What to expect?

Hey y'all, I've been considering a liberal arts psychology degree, but I'm not sure what the coursework will be like. Can anyone share their experiences or insights on this? Would it be a good choice for someone interested in a career in mental health?

Hello! A liberal arts psychology degree is distinguished primarily by its interdisciplinary focus and smaller class sizes. In a liberal arts program, your coursework would emphasize broad foundational knowledge, and also allow you to explore a variety of interconnected fields, such as sociology, anthropology, philosophy, and even literature. This approach can be advantageous in understanding the complexities of human behavior, thought, and emotion.

In terms of coursework, a liberal arts psychology degree will include foundational psychology courses (e.g., Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods, and Statistics), as well as electives related to various branches (e.g., developmental, social, cognitive, or clinical psychology). The interdisciplinary nature of a liberal arts education means that you'll also be required to take courses in other areas like the natural sciences, humanities, and the social sciences as part of your overall graduation requirements, which can help you become a more well-rounded scholar and person.

Smaller class sizes are also more common in liberal arts colleges, which may provide you with more direct interaction with your professors and peers. These interactions can lead to stronger relationships, which can be valuable for graduate school applications (especially for letters of recommendation) or job pursuits later on.

As for pursuing a career in mental health, a liberal arts psychology degree can certainly provide you with a strong foundational knowledge. However, keep in mind that most mental health careers, such as counseling or clinical psychology, require advanced degrees (e.g., master's or doctoral degrees). A liberal arts psychology degree could be a great starting point for further education and opportunities in the field, but be aware that it alone may not be sufficient for you to achieve your professional goals.

Ultimately, whether a liberal arts psychology degree is a good fit for you will depend on your personal preferences and career goals, as well as the specific program you're considering, but many students do speak highly of this kind of degree. Good luck!