Programs

Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Health Psychology program provides an undergraduate education focused on the science of psychology as well as application of psychological science to health.  

Program Highlights

• Full-time, four-year undergraduate degree program
• For incoming freshmen and transfer students
• Fall semester start
• One of the few programs nationwide to provide both a general foundation in psychology as well as a focus on psychosocial aspects of health and illness
• General and two additional available tracks: Pre-Occupational Therapy and Pre-Public Health
• Psychology internships tailored to individual student interests and professional goals

Program Details

One of only a few programs in the country, the MCPHS Bachelor of Science in Health Psychology provides students with a strong knowledge in psychology, a solid preparation in the basic sciences and liberal arts, and an informed sense of health care issues in fields such as sociology, law, ethics, literature, history and health care administration.

Students are educated in the science of psychology, with an emphasis on developing the critical thinking and communication skills necessary to work in collaborative teams and make evidence-based decisions. Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty to identify and prepare for careers that match their individual interests and strengths.

Like all baccalaureate degree programs at MCPHS, the program includes an integrated core curriculum. Students take traditional psychology courses as well as a variety of health-specific courses such as Stress and Illness and Mind-Body Medicine. In order to apply their knowledge and receive practical education specific to their individual career goals, students complete a one-year field placement. Examples of placement sites include programs for children with autism, college counseling and wellness programs, research labs, inpatient and outpatient medical facilities, and community outreach programs.

Students have the option of adding a minor concentration in American Studies, Biology, Chemistry, Medical Humanities, Performing Arts (COF), Public Health or Premedical Studies. These minors develop a depth of knowledge in a focal area that complements the interdisciplinary design of the degree program.

Curriculum

Year I-Fall

*If placed in MAT 150, the student receives 3 s.h. of general elective credit.

**After consultation with the program director, students may substitute BIO 110 and 210 (Anatomy and Physiology I and II) for BIO 151 and 152; similarly, they may substitute CHE 110 and 210 (Basic Chemistry I and II) for CHE 131 and 132.

Year I-Spring

Year II-Fall

Year II-Spring

Year III-Fall

Year III-Spring

Year IV-Fall

Year IV-Spring

Accreditation

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) is chartered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and is authorized to grant undergraduate and graduate degrees in the health sciences and related fields. MCPHS is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), Inc. through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

For Transfers

MCPHS welcomes students from other institutions. Any applicant to MCPHS who has completed at least one semester of college coursework (12 credits or more) is considered to be a transfer applicant. Students who have been out of high school for more than two years are strongly encouraged to take math and science courses at another accredited college or university and then to apply for transfer to MCPHS.

The transfer requirements may be different for different MCPHS programs. To find the requirements for transferring into this program, please click the link below.  

Transfer Requirements for Health Psychology (BS Boston)