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  1. Home
  2. Academics
  3. Majors at Penn State Abington
  4. Psychological and Social Sciences (PSS) Degree

Academic Requirements

Students can choose from either a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. The B.A. provides a broad foundation in social and psychological theory, while the B.S. offers an additional emphasis on research and quantification of human behavior; these students will also complete a year-long (Fall to Spring) senior thesis.

Qualified students may also be eligible to earn a master's degree from Moravian University through our 4+2 Pathway Program in Clinical or School Counseling.

  • Entrance to Major requirements (B.A.)
  • Entrance to Major requirements (B.S.)

Recommended Academic Plans (SAPS)

  • PSS Bachelor of Arts degree
  • PSS Bachelor of Science degree

Enhance Your Degree with a Minor

Students may choose to add a minor to enhance their degree. Minors generally require 18–21 credits and provide an opportunity to pursue secondary academic interests. A list of common minors for PSS students appears below.

  • Anthropology
  • Biology
  • Business
  • Criminal Justice
  • Human Development and Family Studies
  • Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Management
  • Rehabilitation and Human Services
  • Sociology

Enhance Your Degree with a Certificate

Certificates are 15 credits and can help identify students’ areas of interest within the social sciences. They offer specialized training without adding time or cost to a student’s degree. Below are some potential certificate options for PSS students. 

  • Behavioral Health and Counseling Psychology Certificate

  • Chemical Dependency and Prevention Counseling Certificate

  • Child Development Certificate

  • Crime, Psychology, and Public Policy Certificate

  • Human Factors Certificate

Psychological and Social Sciences (PSS) Degree

  • Academic Requirements
  • PSS Faculty
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4+1 Pathway Program in Healthcare Administration

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4+2 Pathway Program in Clinical or School Counseling

learn more
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Where Campus Meets Career: The Abington Experience

Abington Molaea-Renee Goodman

Abington senior named Miss Black Pennsylvania, platform highlights mental health

Abington

Recovery leads alumna to career supporting others with substance use disorder

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Abington professor elected president of distinguished scientific organization

Program Chair

Dr. Meghan Gillen
Professor of Psychology
[email protected]

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See Also

  • Penn State Abington Academics
  • Majors at Abington
  • Minors at Abington
  • Undergraduate Research - ACURA
  • Internships
  • See all PSS Faculty
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Penn State Abington

Conveniently located in a suburban setting, north of Philadelphia, and easily accessible by public transportation.
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