Biological Psychology

Overview

Completing the Associate in Arts degree (A.A.) with a concentration in Biological Psychology allows students to gain the skills and expertise needed to become a psychiatric technician, a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, or start their path toward a career as a neuroscientist, health psychologist, research psychologist, or human factors psychologist. Graduates of this program will be able to use their knowledge of the biological basis of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve health and well-being.

The Biological Psychology concentration is designed to incorporate a foundation of biological, psychological, and social science with the knowledge and skills necessary to use research methods and technologies to investigate the link between biological and mental processes and behavior. Students will be able to identify, analyze, and synthesize information to solve problems and improve and adapt environments and technology to enhance human behavior and capacity. This degree serves a critical role in training graduates to use a scientific approach to understand and solve physical, psychological, and social problems.

Program Type

Associate in Arts

How to Enroll

To pursue this degree, you must apply to MTC using our online application.

Apply Now

Questions?

Print Plan

Sample Program Plan and Costs

On-Campus Traditional. Classes meet on campus.
Virtual 100% online. Meets with a live instructor and classmates on specific days, at specific times. Uses web conferencing software, like Zoom.
Hybrid Some classes on campus. Some classes online or virtual.
Online 100% online. Due dates for projects and assignments. Self-paced work on your time.
Semester Course ID Course Title Classroom Online Hybrid Virtual Credits
Semester 1
(15 Credit Hours)
COL-105 Freshman Seminar

Freshman Seminar

ID: COL-105

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the purposes of higher education and provides a general orientation to the functions and resources of the college. The course is designed to help freshmen adjust to the college community, develop a better understanding of the learning process, and acquire essential academic survival skills.

3
PSY-201 General Psychology

General Psychology

ID: PSY-201

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics and concepts in the science of behavior: scientific method, biological bases for behavior, perception, motivation, learning memory, development, personality, abnormal behavior, therapeutic techniques, and social psychology.

3
MAT-120 Probability and Statistics

Probability and Statistics

ID: MAT-120

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: introductory probability and statistics, including organization of data, sample space concepts, random variables, counting problems, binomial and normal distributions, central limit theorem, confidence intervals,and test hypothesis for large and small samples; types I and II errors; linear regression; and correlation. (Graphic calculator required)

3
ENG-101 English Comp I

English Comp I

ID: ENG-101

Credit Hours: 3

This is a (college transfer) course in which the following topics are presented: a study of composition in conjunction with appropriate literary selections, with frequent theme assignments to reinforce effective writing. A review of standard usage and the basic techniques of research are also presented.

3
MUS-105 Music Appreciation

Music Appreciation

ID: MUS-105

Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to the study of music with focus on the elements of music and their relationships, the musical characteristics of representative works and composers, common musical forms and genres of various western and non-western historical style periods, and appropriate listening experiences.

3
Semester 2
(16 Credit Hours)
ENG-102 English Comp II

English Comp II

ID: ENG-102

Credit Hours: 3

This is a (college transfer) course in which the following topics are presented: development of writing skills through logical organization, effective style, literary analysis and research. An introduction to literary genre is also included.

3
PSY-203 Human Growth and Development

Human Growth and Development

ID: PSY-203

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the physical, cognitive, and social factors affecting human growth, development, and potential.

3
BIO-101 Biological Science I

Biological Science I

ID: BIO-101

Credit Hours: 4

This course is a study of the scientific method, basic biochemistry, cell structure and function, cell physiology, cell reproduction and development, mendelian genetics, population genetics, natural selection, evolution, and ecology.

4
MAT-110 College Algebra

College Algebra

ID: MAT-110

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and exponential functions; inequalities; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; determinants; simple linear programming; solutions of higher degree polynomials; combinatorial algebra, including the binomial theorem; and introduction to probability.

3
SOC-101 Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to Sociology

ID: SOC-101

Credit Hours: 3

This course emphasizes the fundamental concepts and principles of sociology, including culture, socialization, interaction, social groups and stratification, effects of population growth, and technology in society and social institutions.

3
Semester 3
(16 Credit Hours)
SPC-205 Public Speaking

Public Speaking

ID: SPC-205

Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to principles of public speaking with application of speaking skills. Students entering this course must be able to communicate clearly with American speakers of English.

3
MAT-130 Elementary Calculus

Elementary Calculus

ID: MAT-130

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: differentiation and integration of polynomials; rational, logarithmic, and exponential functions; and interpretation and application of these processes. (Graphic calculator required)

3
BIO-102 Biological Science II

Biological Science II

ID: BIO-102

Credit Hours: 4

This course is a study of classification of organisms and structural and functional considerations of all kingdoms (particularly major phyla as well as viruses). Vertebrate animals and vascular plants are emphasized.

4
PSY-212 Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal Psychology

ID: PSY-212

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the nature and development of behavioral disorders, including the investigation of contemporary treatment procedures. In depth review of the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders; the psychological, biological and sociocultural perspectives on these disorders; and the efficacy of various treatment approaches is included.

3
HIS-201 American History: Discovery to 1877

American History: Discovery to 1877

ID: HIS-201

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of u.s. history from discovery to 1877. This course includes political, social, economic, and intellectual developments during this period.

3
Semester 4
(13 Credit Hours)
PHI-115 Contemporary Moral Issues

Contemporary Moral Issues

ID: PHI-115

Credit Hours: 3

This course examines moral issues in contemporary society, including basic principles and applications of ethics.

3
BIO-210 Anatomy and Physiology I

Anatomy and Physiology I

ID: BIO-210

Credit Hours: 4

This is the first in a sequence of courses, including an intensive coverage of the body as an integrated whole. All body systems are studied. Emphasis is placed on the manner in which systems interact to maintain homeostasis. The study includes general chemistry principles, biochemistry, cells and tissues and the following systems will be covered: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and special senses.

4
PSY-218 Behavior Modification

Behavior Modification

ID: PSY-218

Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to the terminology, methods, and procedures used in behavior modification, including the application of these procedures and techniques in specific areas of human services. Focus of study is on the application of change techniques to human behavior across both personal and professional domains.

3
HIS-102 Western Civilization Post 1689

Western Civilization Post 1689

ID: HIS-102

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of western civilization from 1689 to the present, including major political, social, economic, and intellectual factors which shape the modern western world.

3
  Total Credit Hours 60
  Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
$12,000.00
Not including fees and equipment
Semester Course ID Course Title Classroom Online Hybrid Virtual Credits
Semester 1
(6 Credit Hours)
COL-105 Freshman Seminar

Freshman Seminar

ID: COL-105

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the purposes of higher education and provides a general orientation to the functions and resources of the college. The course is designed to help freshmen adjust to the college community, develop a better understanding of the learning process, and acquire essential academic survival skills.

3
PSY-201 General Psychology

General Psychology

ID: PSY-201

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics and concepts in the science of behavior: scientific method, biological bases for behavior, perception, motivation, learning memory, development, personality, abnormal behavior, therapeutic techniques, and social psychology.

3
Semester 2
(9 Credit Hours)
MAT-120 Probability and Statistics

Probability and Statistics

ID: MAT-120

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: introductory probability and statistics, including organization of data, sample space concepts, random variables, counting problems, binomial and normal distributions, central limit theorem, confidence intervals,and test hypothesis for large and small samples; types I and II errors; linear regression; and correlation. (Graphic calculator required)

3
ENG-101 English Comp I

English Comp I

ID: ENG-101

Credit Hours: 3

This is a (college transfer) course in which the following topics are presented: a study of composition in conjunction with appropriate literary selections, with frequent theme assignments to reinforce effective writing. A review of standard usage and the basic techniques of research are also presented.

3
MUS-105 Music Appreciation

Music Appreciation

ID: MUS-105

Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to the study of music with focus on the elements of music and their relationships, the musical characteristics of representative works and composers, common musical forms and genres of various western and non-western historical style periods, and appropriate listening experiences.

3
Semester 3
(6 Credit Hours)
ENG-102 English Comp II

English Comp II

ID: ENG-102

Credit Hours: 3

This is a (college transfer) course in which the following topics are presented: development of writing skills through logical organization, effective style, literary analysis and research. An introduction to literary genre is also included.

3
PSY-203 Human Growth and Development

Human Growth and Development

ID: PSY-203

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the physical, cognitive, and social factors affecting human growth, development, and potential.

3
Semester 4
(10 Credit Hours)
BIO-101 Biological Science I

Biological Science I

ID: BIO-101

Credit Hours: 4

This course is a study of the scientific method, basic biochemistry, cell structure and function, cell physiology, cell reproduction and development, mendelian genetics, population genetics, natural selection, evolution, and ecology.

4
MAT-110 College Algebra

College Algebra

ID: MAT-110

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and exponential functions; inequalities; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; determinants; simple linear programming; solutions of higher degree polynomials; combinatorial algebra, including the binomial theorem; and introduction to probability.

3
SOC-101 Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to Sociology

ID: SOC-101

Credit Hours: 3

This course emphasizes the fundamental concepts and principles of sociology, including culture, socialization, interaction, social groups and stratification, effects of population growth, and technology in society and social institutions.

3
Semester 5
(10 Credit Hours)
SPC-205 Public Speaking

Public Speaking

ID: SPC-205

Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to principles of public speaking with application of speaking skills. Students entering this course must be able to communicate clearly with American speakers of English.

3
MAT-130 Elementary Calculus

Elementary Calculus

ID: MAT-130

Credit Hours: 3

This course includes the following topics: differentiation and integration of polynomials; rational, logarithmic, and exponential functions; and interpretation and application of these processes. (Graphic calculator required)

3
BIO-102 Biological Science II

Biological Science II

ID: BIO-102

Credit Hours: 4

This course is a study of classification of organisms and structural and functional considerations of all kingdoms (particularly major phyla as well as viruses). Vertebrate animals and vascular plants are emphasized.

4
Semester 6
(6 Credit Hours)
PSY-212 Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal Psychology

ID: PSY-212

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a study of the nature and development of behavioral disorders, including the investigation of contemporary treatment procedures. In depth review of the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders; the psychological, biological and sociocultural perspectives on these disorders; and the efficacy of various treatment approaches is included.

3
HIS-201 American History: Discovery to 1877

American History: Discovery to 1877

ID: HIS-201

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of u.s. history from discovery to 1877. This course includes political, social, economic, and intellectual developments during this period.

3
Semester 7
(7 Credit Hours)
PHI-115 Contemporary Moral Issues

Contemporary Moral Issues

ID: PHI-115

Credit Hours: 3

This course examines moral issues in contemporary society, including basic principles and applications of ethics.

3
BIO-210 Anatomy and Physiology I

Anatomy and Physiology I

ID: BIO-210

Credit Hours: 4

This is the first in a sequence of courses, including an intensive coverage of the body as an integrated whole. All body systems are studied. Emphasis is placed on the manner in which systems interact to maintain homeostasis. The study includes general chemistry principles, biochemistry, cells and tissues and the following systems will be covered: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and special senses.

4
Semester 8
(6 Credit Hours)
PSY-218 Behavior Modification

Behavior Modification

ID: PSY-218

Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to the terminology, methods, and procedures used in behavior modification, including the application of these procedures and techniques in specific areas of human services. Focus of study is on the application of change techniques to human behavior across both personal and professional domains.

3
HIS-102 Western Civilization Post 1689

Western Civilization Post 1689

ID: HIS-102

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of western civilization from 1689 to the present, including major political, social, economic, and intellectual factors which shape the modern western world.

3
  Total Credit Hours 60
  Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
$12,000.00
Not including fees and equipment

Careers

Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist

A Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist works with people who have mental and developmental disabilities or who have suffered a stroke, brain injury, or accident. The specialist helps them adapt to their circumstances, improve their quality of life, and restore community functioning. They may also assist with personal relationships and adjustment, occupational adaptation, and community involvement. Many also work in prevention and support public health initiatives to prevent disabilities and support well-being.

Projected Job Growth

+13.9%

Average Annual Salary

$91,552
According to EMSI data as of 2022

Where Can I Work?

  • Mental Health Facilities

Careers

Health Psychologist

A Health Psychologist uses knowledge of how biological, psychological, and social factors affect illness, health, and well-being to promote optimum quality of life. They work with other health professionals to provide comprehensive care and education on the psychological roots of symptoms and problems that are linked to illness. Many also study how psychological factors play a role in the prevention and treatment of illnesses like cancer or cardiovascular disease. Health psychologists also study public health issues like substance abuse, chronic pain, smoking, exercise, and nutrition to create programs to improve public health and well-being.

Projected Job Growth

+13.9%

Average Annual Salary

$91,552
According to EMSI data as of 2022

Where Can I Work?

  • Hospitals
  • Veterans Affairs Health System

What’s next after I complete this program?

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Graduates who wish to expand their employment options and earnings potential can continue their education at a four-year school by earning their Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Those who have earned their B.A. or B.S. in Psychology are eligible to apply for a broader range of positions and earn higher compensation. Some will find work in an occupation related to psychology, but many also find that their psychology degree prepares them for other professions in areas like education, public affairs, business, and service industries.

Earn a Master’s or Ph.D. Degree

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can pursue a master’s degree or Ph.D. in psychology. A graduate degree in areas such as counseling, school, clinical, industrial/organizational, or developmental psychology can expand the range of career opportunities in counseling, research, data analysis, government, education, consulting, marketing, and organizational development. A doctoral degree, or Ph.D., offers the opportunity for independent practice or research as a psychologist in various areas of specialization.

Want more information?

Academic programs count as academic credit for a certificate, diploma or degree and may transfer toward future academic endeavors at four-year colleges and universities.
Training programs can be completed in a matter of weeks or months, are focused on career training, and provide credentials and certificates needed in the specific fields of study. Coursework does not transfer.
Not sure: Check out these resources to explore what fits your goals.

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