Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Positive Psychology
Start your journey toward a career focused on supporting mental health and human potential. Arizona State University's online Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a concentration in positive psychology teaches you evidence-based strategies to help others flourish mentally and emotionally. You’ll explore the science behind resilience, mindfulness and emotional well-being, and how to apply these concepts to build stronger people and communities in real-world settings.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Enable individuals and communities to thrive with a career in positive psychology
The growing field of positive psychology centers around enhancing quality of life through proven, research-based approaches. This program introduces strategies developed to support emotional well-being, strong relationships, healthy work environments and more.
You’ll learn how to apply and assess these interventions across family, community and organizational settings. Core areas of study include:
- Coping and creativity
- Gratitude and mindfulness
- Hope and optimism
- Joy and love
- Resilience
As a positive psychology major, you’ll scaffold your coursework to real-world applications through ASU initiatives like the Resilience in Social Environments (RISE) project, the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience and the Global Institute of Sustainability and Innovation. You may also be selected to participate in research with faculty.
If you plan to become a licensed therapist or psychologist, this program can be your starting point. Most roles in clinical psychology require a master’s degree or a PhD, as well as licensure in the state where you plan to practice and potentially other relevant certifications.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Online positive psychology BA courses
The curriculum includes required and elective courses that strengthen your psychology expertise. You’ll study topics in positive psychology, including how to apply optimal theory to promote a healthier, more resilient society. Other courses cover evidence-based interventions, emotional intelligence and related areas. Courses may include:
The jobs a positive psychology BA degree concentration prepares you for
After graduation, you’ll be prepared for roles in fields like human resources, wellness, research and education. You’ll also be well-positioned for graduate study in psychology or related areas. Potential career paths include:
Addictions Counselor
Behavioral Health Specialist
Counselor (General)
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
Mental Health Counselor
School Psychologist
Social Services Director
Social Worker
Learn from leading psychology faculty
Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.
Learn from leading psychology faculty
Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Study at one of the top-ranked universities in the nation
ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs
Top 10%
best global universities
80%
of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
