Wear jeans in Support of Denim Day and learn about its history at Empowered in Denim: Breaking the Silence on Sexual Assault on April 23 at APIN.
Read more about Denim Day is April 23: Wear Jeans to Support Victims of Sexual AssaultPsychology
Explore Human Behavior and Mental Processes Through Scientific Inquiry
Program Overview
Are you intrigued by human behavior and the workings of the mind? The Psychology program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) invites you on a journey of discovery. This program provides an opportunity to delve into the science of human behavior and mental processes. Whether your interest lies in understanding complex human emotions, exploring the depths of cognition, or applying psychological principles to real-world problems, the Psychology program offers a solid foundation.
As you progress through the program, you will engage in critical thinking and scientific inquiry, learn the ethics of science, and collaborate with faculty and peers. Practical opportunities like community engagement, internships, and Psi Beta membership complement your academic learning. The Associate of Arts degree you earn here meets the general education requirements of Idaho public universities, equipping you for a smooth transition to advanced studies. Graduates often find fulfilling careers in human resources, mental health care, rehabilitation, and more.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Arts
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Location
Learning Opportunities
- Community Engagement & Research: Get involved in hands-on projects and research that connect psychological concepts to community needs.
- Diverse Career Preparation: Prepare for a range of careers in the helping professions, including mental health care, rehabilitation, and social work.
- Development of Communication Skills: Hone your verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills, crucial in understanding and conveying psychological concepts.
- Emotional Intelligence Development: Gain insights into emotional intelligence, practicing self-awareness, self-management, and collaborative skills.
- Foundational Knowledge for Transfer: Build a strong foundation for further studies in psychology or related fields at Idaho public institutions.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Psychology – Associate of Arts Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $9,615
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1063
Annual Openings*
$35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Managers, All Other
All managers not listed separately.
346
Annual Openings*
$30.48
Hourly Median Wage*
$63,398
Annual Median Salary
18.26%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Psychologists, All Other
All psychologists not listed separately.
50
Annual Openings*
$37.51
Hourly Median Wage*
$78,021
Annual Median Salary
24.39%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests. Help individuals with distress or maladjustment understand their problems through their knowledge of case history, interviews with patients, and theory. Provide individual or group counseling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development and adjustment. May design behavior modification programs and consult with medical personnel regarding the best treatment for patients.
46
Annual Openings*
$32.13
Hourly Median Wage*
$66,830
Annual Median Salary
11.57%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Social Science Research Assistants
Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management.
27
Annual Openings*
$24.67
Hourly Median Wage*
$51,314
Annual Median Salary
11.53%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Apply principles of psychology to human resources, administration, management, sales, and marketing problems. Activities may include policy planning; employee testing and selection, training, and development; and organizational development and analysis. May work with management to organize the work setting to improve worker productivity.
1
Annual Openings*
N/A
Hourly Median Wage
N/A
Annual Median Salary
10.36%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Testimonial Carousel
“I wanted to expand my education in order to do what I love — helping people, particularly children, who may be struggling in life and need someone to be there to listen and be their advocate. I didn’t have that growing up.” Read more > about Making Dreams a Reality
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Psychology as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Related Programs
Clubs
Psychology Club
The Psychology Club at College of Western Idaho is for anyone interested in psychology — not just psych majors! Join us to meet cool new people, network with professionals, build your resume, and grow personally. Club events are geared toward self care and having fun.
News
Congratulations to Professor of Psychology, Heather Schoenherr, who was named the recipient of the 2022 Wayne Weiten Teaching Excellence Award.
Read more about Schoenherr Awarded Wayne Weiten Teaching Excellence Award
Congratulations to College of Western Idaho’s Psi Beta Honor Society Chapter which has earned national recognition for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Read more about CWI’s Psi Beta Honor Society Earns National Recognition
Professor of Psychology, Heather Schoenherr, is recognized for the transformative and life-changing nature of her teaching.
Read more about Schoenherr Named 2023 Innovative Educator
Congratulations to four members of CWI’s Psi Beta Honor Society, who recently received the prestigious Emerging Researcher Award.
Read more about CWI Psi Beta Members Honored with National Award for Research
Speak Up! Ink Up!, a charity event hosted by 2022 College of Western Idaho graduate, Craig Petersen, raises nearly $11,500 for Idaho foster children.
Read more about Fostering Change
Current and former College of Western Idaho Psychology students represented the College at the Rocky Mountain Psychological Association Annual Convention April 7 – 9.
Read more about Students Present Research at Annual Psychology Conference
Congratulations to Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Social Sciences, Jana McCurdy, College of Western Idaho’s Faculty of Distinction for March 2022.
Read more about McCurdy Named Faculty of Distinction for March
Psychology Research Bridge Program gives students a competitive edge for graduate school and job opportunities upon graduation.
Read more about Bridge Program Gives Students a Competitive Edge
Congratulations to Julie Meyer and Sunny Braithwaite, members of CWi’s Psi Beta Honor Society, who recently received the prestigious Emerging Researcher Award.
Read more about Psi Beta Members Awarded for Excellence in Research
Congratulations to Heather Schoenherr, College of Western Idaho’s 2021 Faculty of the Year,
Read more about Schoenherr Named 2021 Faculty of the Year
Congratulations to the inaugural group of CWI faculty who now hold the rank title of Professor.
Read more about Seven CWI Faculty Promoted to ProfessorsRequest More Information
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