Applied Psychology (Honours) Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Overview

The Applied Psychology (Honours) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers a rigorous scientific foundation for students aiming for careers in health sciences or neuroscience. This baccalaureate degree integrates diverse disciplines including mathematics, physics, and biology to provide a holistic understanding of human behaviour.

The curriculum adopts a systems-based approach, examining the complex interrelationships between individuals and their environments. Students benefit from a "hands-on" learning environment that emphasises laboratory research, technical writing skills, and professional workplace expertise through integrated practicum placements.

Why Applied Psychology (Honours) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University?

This programme stands out for its interdisciplinary nature, bridging the gap between traditional social sciences and hard sciences like chemistry and biology. It was developed in close collaboration with industry partners and regional employers to ensure the curriculum meets modern professional standards.

Students gain access to dedicated laboratory facilities where they develop technical proficiency with scientific technologies. The distinctive teaching model includes a workplace practicum co-supervised by faculty and employers, providing direct exposure to professional environments and potential career networks before graduation.

The honours track specifically caters to those intending to pursue competitive graduate studies. Under the direct supervision of a faculty member, students design and execute an original research project, fostering advanced analytical skills and contributing to the academic field of psychology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 11114 per semester
• National fee: CAD 2443 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

1000 Level Requirements

• Biology I
• Biology II
• Structure of Matter
• Chemical Energetics and Dynamics
• University Writing
• Psychology: Basic Processes
• Psychology: Areas and Applications
• Differential Calculus
• Calculus for Life Sciences I
• Integral Calculus
• Calculus for Life Sciences II
• Physics for Life Sciences I
• Physics for Physical and Applied Sciences I

2000 Level Requirements

• Cell Biology
• Organic Chemistry I
• Applied Statistics
• Brain and Behaviour
• Social Psychology
• Cognition
• Research Methods in Psychology I
• Genetics
• Cellular Biochemistry

3000 and 4000 level Requirements

• Technical Report Writing
• Practicum in Psychology
• Culture and Psychology
• Applied Statistics II
• Quantitative Methods II
• Program Evaluation
• Tests and Measurement
• Research Methods II: Qualitative Methodologies
• Drugs and Behaviour
• Sensation & Perception
• Brain Dysfunction and Recovery
• Neuroscience
• Advanced Topics in Psychopathology
• Clinical Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Developmental Psychopathology
• Rehabilitation
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• Group Dynamics
• Consumer Psychology
• Cognitive Ergonomics
• Human Factors
• Interpersonal Relations
• Honours Thesis I
• Honours Thesis II

Careers with Applied Psychology (Honours)

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles in health sciences, vocational rehabilitation, and mental health services. The applied focus of the degree also opens pathways into disability services, software usability research, and pharmaceutical industries where human-technology interaction is critical.

The honours designation provides an excellent foundation for research-focused graduate studies in fields such as neuroscience, clinical psychology, and public policy. Students develop transferable skills in ethical decision-making, statistical analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration that are highly valued by modern employers.