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The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree prepares students for professional graduate studies in psychology and social service support positions in clinical and institutional settings.
Cairn University’s fully online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is a 121-credit, biblically centered program that intentionally integrates Scripture and theology into every psychology coursework (including a dedicated Theology Integration in Psychology capstone). Delivered in a flexible, asynchronous 7-week format with no set login times, the degree is designed for working adults and ministry-minded students, offering personalized mentorship from licensed, experienced Christian faculty, practical skill development for mental health and human-service careers, and preparation for graduate studies—all at an affordable $425/credit rate with financial aid options.
Cairn University Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities. At Cairn University, we work hard to ensure that everything we do inside and outside the classroom aligns with our commitment to Christian education, clearly articulated in our University mission statement.
All undergraduate programs integrate 30 credits of Bible and theology as part of the core curriculum. Except for those pursuing a BS in Bible, anyone who earns a bachelor’s degree from Cairn has a Bible Minor listed on their transcript.
Delivered fully online in 7-week terms with no set meeting times, using adaptive tools like Cerego for learning retention and video-threads for collaborative discussions; ideal for balancing work, ministry, and family, with completion in 3-4 years.
Centers on Christ and Scripture, weaving theological integration (e.g., PSY 422 Theological Integration in Psychology) throughout 121-credit coursework, including core psychology courses like Research Methods and Abnormal Psychology, to foster biblical thinking and service-oriented preparation.
Taught by seasoned professionals (e.g., Dr. Ruth Kuchinsky-Smith with 30+ years in psychology/education; Dr. Bryan Maier, a licensed counselor), who provide personalized feedback, office hours, and holistic support for spiritual and professional growth.
$425 per credit with financial aid options; NC-SARA approved meeting nationwide standards and matching the quality of the on-campus program.
A Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology prepares students for professional graduate studies in psychology and social service support positions in clinical and institutional settings. Students choose from a variety of electives to tailor the program to their own professional interests.
All Cairn University students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the Foundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:
Cairn University strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by faculty not TAs. The tuition rates are posted on this page.
Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Tuition discounts are also available for those working in Christian schools. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University.
Additional information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.
Direct Entry-Level Roles
Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Cairn University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
Additional Accreditation Information is available from this page.
“The biblical integration found in every course shapes our worldview and trains both our minds and hearts to prepare for a life of service.”
– Jesse R.
Currently there are over 6 million online learners in the United States, and those numbers are growing every day. Online degrees that have regional accreditation are held to the same standards as traditional universities, ensuring that students earn a valuable degree that will prepare them with the skills and credentials for their career. Do research to find an online degree that is accredited and reputable, such as those offered at Cairn University.
Cairn Online courses are built on Cairn’s 100+ years tradition of excellence in biblical education. Our own faculty has carefully designed them taking into consideration what works best for the online learner. The modular design and asynchronous delivery enable you to complete your studies while you pursue your career, ministry and spend time with your family.
Courses typically contain seven units and are delivered in 7-week terms*. Each unit contains 5-7 modular activities. Each learning activity includes instructional videos accompanied by reflections, quizzes, discussion forums and other assessments. Courses also utilize adaptive learning technologies such as Cerego for long-term retention of concepts and video-threads for enhanced collaboration.
The asynchronous delivery provides flexibility around your daily busy schedule. In most courses, interactive activities are typically due by Wednesday while the rest of the unit’s work is due by Sunday night.
Our own Cairn faculty intentionally participate in the course throughout the week to provide you with an incarnational experience.
The course transfer depends on where you are transferring from, and what program you are transferring to. If you are coming to Cairn Online from another institution, it is very likely you will have some credits that will transfer. Because there are so many options, we encourage you to talk to an enrollment counselor. If you are transferring out, Cairn is a regionally accredited school and some credits should transfer with relative ease. Each college sets their own transfer criteria, so be sure to check their policies for specifics.
Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to this page for details.
Interested in our BA in Psychology program? Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!
