Psychology, B.A.


Availability: On-Campus
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

psychology program areas of emphasis

At Asbury, the student explores the various aspects of psychological study (biological, cognitive, developmental, social/personality, and mental and physical health) from a distinctly orthodox Christian perspective.

Asbury’s psychology program offers several concentrations for psychology majors to pursue if so desired. They include biological psychology, business psychology, child psychology, Christian counseling, clinical/counseling psychology, equine assisted mental health, forensic psychology, social psychology, and student development psychology. Interested psychology majors, in consultation with their academic advisor, can use the psychology electives to tailor their undergraduate major toward any of these specific areas of study.

Life-Changing Experiences

Psychology students receive individualized support from our highly-qualified faculty as they experience small class sizes, clinical and teaching practica, and undergraduate research projects which they present at state-wide psychology and science forums. Our students are also ‘on the go’ visiting and volunteering at various Central Kentucky psychology-related sites like:

  • Eastern State Hospital
  • Lexington Federal Medical Center (federal prison)

Asbury students can also go to central Europe on a 3-credit Holocaust Studies Tour. Dr. Nesselroade approaches the subject matter of the Holocaust from a social science perspective.

Meet our psychology faculty

Paul Nesselroade ’89, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology
Chair of Psychology Department
Director, Honors Program
Laura Dryjanska, Ph.D.
Professor, Psychology
Cathrin Wilbanks ’11, M.S.
Assistant Professor of Psychology and Equine Assisted Services

In their own words

Hear what Asbury alumni have to say about their experience in the Psychology program.

The Psychology Department at Asbury University helped me to explore the human condition at the intersection of science and faith. It provided no easy answers, but pushed me to pursue difficult questions and fostered my critical development. I continue to benefit both personally and professionally from my time in Asbury Psychology."
Dr. Ben Collier Assistant Professor, Department of Risk, Insurance, and Healthcare Management, Fox School of Business, Temple University
At Asbury University, the faculty opened my eyes to the wide range of professional opportunities in the field of psychology. Because of this influence and the excellent preparation I received from the faculty in the psychology department, I was well prepared to enter graduate school confident in both my applied skills and ability to produce scholarly work."
Andrea Howard Postdoctoral Fellow in Silver Springs, MD
Through the Psychology program I gained spiritual mentors, research advisors, and trusted wisdom. I was encouraged to try things I that never thought I'd be good at, and I ended up falling in love with research and people in the process. The opportunities that I received (to do research, visit a federal prison, go to Europe, and so much more) and the ways that I was encouraged along the way changed me in such meaningful ways. The professors taught me about a fascinating discipline, but even more about what compassion and trust in the Lord looks like in practice."
Molly Bramble attending Chase Law at NKU
Throughout my graduate training and during my two years as a licensed clinical psychologist, I can say with confidence Asbury more than prepared me for this line of work. Asbury's psychology program taught me to be a well-rounded mental health professional by providing hands on clinical experience, opportunities for research participation, and even connecting me to a local hospital for further clinical experience."
Michael Bas PsyD Licensed clinical psychologist Huntington VAMC
Studying psychology at Asbury gave me a connection to a scientific field that has emerged as a lifelong passion. I was challenged, inspired, and encouraged by professors who cared deeply about their students and communicated truth in an entertaining, personable, and faith-infused way. My professors remained available and accessible to me even after I graduated, helping me navigate my career path in a way that ultimately led to a satisfying and fulfilling vocation. I'm truly grateful for and have fond remembrances of my time at Asbury."
Dr. Jon Salsman Associate Professor, Director of Clinical Research in Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine

Outcomes

What Our Alumni Do

Graduates of our program pursue careers such as:

  • Counselors of various types
  • Mental health workers
  • School psychologists
  • Work in early childhood development programs

They also pursue various fields of work outside of psychology like:

  • Pastoral work
  • Legal work
  • Business management
  • and a variety of medical-related positions

Questions?
We’d love to help!


Undergraduate Admissions