Career & Academic Pathways >> Social Science

Contact Information
Adrianne Kotecki (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4169
akotecki@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Psychology
• Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

Have you ever wondered why people do what they do? While there is no simple explanation, psychology classes explore factors that influence human behavior and interaction. The Psychology program introduces psychology as a science and provides a solid foundation on which to build. The core curriculum and interesting subfields challenge students to think
critically and apply sound decision-making, communication, adaptability, and inclusivity in one’s everyday life.

Job Outlook

Job prospects for psychology-related careers are strong and show continued steady growth in the future. According to the American Psychological Association, these careers are expected to grow by as much as 20% between 2014 and 2024. Graduates may also find positions in a wide range of fields, from sales to social work, that call on critical “soft” skills such as interpersonal communication and emotional intelligence.

Potential Careers

Substance Abuse Counselors (may require additional training)*	$31,210 - $93,090
Social Science Research Assistants (may require additional training)*	$35,220 - $87,840
Marriage & Family Therapists (may require additional training)*	$31,540 - $82,820
College Psychology Instructors (may require additional training)*	$50,860 - $196,070
Clinical Psychologists (may require additional training)*	$58,150 - $163,890

MPC Degrees and Certificates

Psychology - Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)

Year 1

FALL	UNITS	SPRING	UNITS
ENGL 1A	3	ENGL 2	3
MATH 16 or PSYC 19	4	PSYC 25 or PSYC 3	3
PSYC 1	3	PSYC 10	3
Area 3A	3	Area 5A & 5C	4
UC Elective	1	UC Elective	1
PERS 10 rec.		LIBR 50 rec.

Total Fall Units	14	Total Spring Units	14

Year 2

FALL	UNITS	SPRING	UNITS
Area 1C (CSU req. only)	3	Area 3A or 3B	3
PSYC 38	3	Area 4	3
PSYC 3, 6, 25, 35, or 40	3	US-2 & 3 rec.
Area 3B	3	Area 6 (UC req. only)	3-5
US-1 rec.		or UC Elective
UC Elective	3	UC Elective	3
PSYC course rec.		PSYC course rec.
		UC Elective	3-5

Total Fall Units	15	Total Spring Units	15-19

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling.

Testimonials

Ray Padilla

Higher education was always a priority, but I didn’t have a clear idea as to what I wanted to pursue. The MPC Psychology department opened my eyes to how fascinating the human brain was, which led me to a bachelor’s in neuroscience, and a career in clinical pathology.

Merina Smith

My psychology classes offered me a world of perspective and helped me establish my purpose to become a family therapist. As I await my first semester at UC Berkeley, I am beyond grateful for my experience and feel prepared and excited for the next chapter in my education.

Monterey Peninsula College