AB in Psychology in the Philippines

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (AB PSY) is a four-year degree program that helps students understand human behavior and different thinking processes through the use of basic scientific principles and psychological theories. It  equips students with the knowledge and skills to assess and conduct empirical research regarding individual and group behavior by integrating subjects in personality, human development, and psychological testing.

Recommended Senior High School Strand

Students who want to pursue a degree in AB in Psychology are encouraged to take the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand under the Academic track. The curriculum focuses on human behavior, literature, education, politics, liberal arts, and society. The HUMSS strand will cover relevant topics that may be further discussed in their college lectures. 

Subjects and Curriculum

• General Psychology
• Psychological Statistics
• Developmental Psychology
• Personality
• Social Psychology
• Psychological Assessment
• Abnormal Psychology
• Industrial Psychology and Counseling
• Human Behavior in Organization

Admission Requirements

Qualifications

• The student must be a high school graduate. 

However, if they were not able to graduate high school, they may opt to take the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college; the availability of courses for PEPT passers depend on the university.

• The students must pass the College Admissions Test of the university.

Basic Requirements

• Form 138 - High School Report Card (Original and Photocopy)
• Recommendation letter from High school principal and guidance counselor
• Most recent medical and dental health record
• Copy of NSO Certified birth certificate
• Certificate of Good moral character
• Copy of honorable dismissal
• Copy of high school diploma
• (1) Latest 2”x2” ID Picture

Program Outcome

Graduates of BS in Psychology are expected to be able to:

• Discuss and analyze Psychology’s major theories and concepts
• Apply the methods of psychological research
• Demonstrate application of psychological theories and methods in a professional and personal setting
• Show capability for self-reflection and  independent learning
• Abide with ethics in the practicing Psychology
• Create a harmonious interpersonal relationship in a diverse cultural setting with colleagues and clients
• Conduct psychological assessments and evaluation

On-The-Job Training/Internship

During the fourth year of the program, students are required to attend an On the Job Training (OJT) in the human resource department and educational and research institutions.

Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an actual work setting. Usually, universities require them to submit a written report on their tasks, learning experiences, and hours rendered. Their work performance will also be evaluated by their immediate managers and will be submitted to their respective OJT coordinator. The number of hours required may differ in each university.

Board Exam

To become a Registered Psychometrician in the Philippines, a graduate of AB in Psychology needs to pass the Psychometrician Licensure Exam. The examination is conducted by the Board of Psychology under the supervision of the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC). 

Career Opportunities

Graduates of BS in Psychology may pursue a career path in human resource department and educational and research institutions. They may apply as a school counselor, vocational counselor, rehabilitation counselor, marriage, couple, and family counselor, substance abuse counselor, human resource associate, researcher, or a psychometrician.