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Master of Arts in Human Behavior Psychology

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Home » Programs » Master of Arts in Human Behavior Psychology

Program Overview

Gain a trait common to successful managers – understanding people – with a Master of Arts in Human Behavior Psychology. You’ll build strong theoretical and empirical base from which to begin to understand the human experience. Get exposure to a wide array of behavioral topics covering personal, social, and organizational issues. The program was developed for students who have specific ambitions in the fields of supervision, management, and administration, but also benefits those undergoing life transitions, seeking personal or career growth, or preparing for doctoral-level study.

The entire program is available online, and students can start at the beginning of any month. With classes scheduled monthly, students can complete the program in as little as 13 months. Students residing in San Diego County have the option to pursue their Human Behavioral Psychology degree through hybrid courses, which combine in-person and online asynchronous learning.

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Course Details

Core Requirements

  • 10 courses; 45 quarter units

An examination of the meaning and importance of personal growth and human communication in human life and relationships. Development of critical communication skills, self-awareness and self-understanding to enhance personal and professional relationships. Presents a variety of models and methodologies in the exploration of physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual growth.

A study of normative judgments as applied to contemporary human problems such as the uses of power, business practices and the right to live and to die. Examines varied ethical systems using a case study format

An examination of the adult stages of human biological, psychological and social development. Discusses classical as well as contemporary theories.

An examination of the personal, interpersonal and social dimensions of human sexuality. Covers topics such as anatomy and physiology of human sexuality, contemporary American sexual behavior, sexual myths, sex-role socialization, sexual dysfunctions and sexual-social issues.

An in-depth study of various types of organizational structures, both formal and informal, with special emphasis on behavior of people within those structures.

A survey of social psychological theories of behavior change and resistance to change.

A study of the qualities of leadership required today and in the future. Emphasizes historical as well as contemporary leaders.

Behavioral research is a way to examine and understand individual and social behavior through measurement and interpretation. This course investigates the theoretical principles that underlie behavioral research and the application of current research techniques. The course forms the foundation for practical application of behavioral science and continued study in the human behavior and is essential to completing the capstone course in the program (Integrative Project in Human Behavior, HUB 680).

PrerequisiteHUB 650

The application of research methods and statistical techniques to a variety of research problems. The student will use these methods and techniques to address hypothetical and real research issues. The student will have developed a research proposal for the capstone project in HUB650 (a prerequisite for the course) and will apply the material learned in this course to further develop and refine the proposal.

PrerequisiteHUB 650; HUB 670

The capstone project is an empirical study that integrates theoretical and applied concepts and results in a 20-30 page paper (APA style). The student will be required to develop a project proposal during HUB 650 and HUB 670 that can then be completed during the capstone course. This course may not be taken as an independent study.

Program Electives

  • 2 courses; 9 quarter units

Students can select graduate elective courses from the following course prefixes: AGE, CHD, HRM, HUB, MKT, MGT, and SOC (HUB 660, CHD 601, and SOC 604 are highly recommended). In addition, other courses may be used as electives with the approval of the Academic Program Director (APD). Note: Due to enrollment restrictions, special permission by the Chair of the Department of Psychology is required to take CHD 640 or any courses designated PSY 600 or above.

Degree and Course Requirements

To receive the Master of Arts in Human Behavioral Psychology, students must complete at least 54 quarter units of graduate work. A total of 13.5 quarter units of graduate credit may be granted for equivalent graduate work completed at another institution, as it applies to this degree and provided the units were not used in earning another advanced degree. Students should refer to the section on graduate admission requirements for specific information regarding application and evaluation.

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Synthesize and apply communication theory and practice in real-world situations.
  • Develop a personal and professional code of ethics based on knowledge and understanding of moral and ethical principles and values.
  • Assimilate adult development and human sexuality theories and principles into personal and interpersonal growth.
  • Analyze and apply behavioral and organizational change processes to personal, social, and organizational settings.
  • Integrate theories of leadership into applied areas of supervision, management, and administration.
  • Demonstrate practical competence in the use of behavioral theory, research and assessment.
  • Produce written materials (papers, essays, projects, journals, etc.) that analyze, integrate, and critique critical theories, issues and research in human behavior. 
  • Demonstrate oral fluency (class debates, group discussions, individual presentations, etc.) in articulation of the theory and practice of behavioral science. 
  • Demonstrate multi-cultural awareness and appreciation of human diversity. 

Admissions

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

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.

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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.