Montgomery College is expanding its academic offerings with a new Psychology Option within its Associate of Arts (A.A.) in General Studies, providing students with a pathway to four-year universities and careers in fields including community health, social work, human resources and behavioral health sciences.
The 60-credit program is available across Montgomery College’s Germantown, Rockville and Takoma Park/Silver Spring campuses, along with distance learning options. Coursework includes general psychology, child psychology, human growth and development, educational psychology, social psychology and pathopsychology.
College officials say the program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, research and communication skills while helping prepare students for Maryland’s mental health and social service workforce.
“Psychology helps students better understand the people and communities around them while developing the critical thinking, research and communication skills that employers and universities value,” said Andrew Herst, chair of Montgomery College’s Psychology Department. “Whether students plan to become psychologists, counselors, social workers, educators or pursue careers in business, health care or public service, this program provides a strong academic foundation and multiple pathways to achieve their goals.”
Students who complete the associate degree can transfer credits toward bachelor’s degree programs at institutions including the University of Maryland, College Park; University of Maryland, Baltimore County at the Universities at Shady Grove; University of Maryland Global Campus; and Marymount University, among other partner institutions.
The program also focuses on practical skills such as data analysis, scientific inquiry, group processes and interpersonal communication. Those skills can be applied to positions including psychiatric technicians, intake coordinators, compliance managers and social service aides.
Enrollment for upcoming academic terms is currently open. Prospective students can meet with program advisors to develop degree plans based on their career and transfer goals.
