Montgomery College Introduces Psychology Degree to Address Mental Health Demand

Montgomery College is expanding its offerings by introducing its Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Psychology. Designed to foster critical thinking, analytical reasoning and empirical research skills, the 60-credit program provides an accessible, high-quality foundation for students seeking to transfer to four-year institutions or immediately launch careers in community health, social work, human resources and behavioral health sciences.

With classes available across Montgomery College's three campuses in Germantown, Rockville and Takoma Park/Silver Spring, as well as through flexible distance learning options, the program serves as a critical pipeline for Maryland's mental health and social service workforce. Coursework covers core disciplines including general psychology, child psychology, human growth and development, educational psychology, social psychology and pathopsychology.

According to workforce data from Modern Campus, regional demand for professionals trained in psychological sciences continues to surge. In Maryland, employment for industrial-organizational psychologists commands average earnings of over $115,000, while specialized clinical, neuropsychological and regulatory roles offer strong wage growth and high career stability.

"Psychology helps students better understand the people and communities around them while developing the critical thinking, research and communication skills that employers and universities value," said Andrew Herst, chair of Montgomery College's Psychology Department. "Whether students plan to become psychologists, counselors, social workers, educators or pursue careers in business, health care or public service, this program provides a strong academic foundation and multiple pathways to achieve their goals."

The psychology degree track is specifically structured to offer maximum flexibility and seamless transfer articulation with leading regional universities. Students completing their A.A. degree can directly transfer credits to bachelor’s degree programs at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD), University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) at the Universities at Shady Grove, University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) and Marymount University, among other partner institutions.

Beyond preparation for four-year degrees, the program emphasizes practical skill building through data analysis, scientific inquiry, group processes and interpersonal communication—vital for careers such as psychiatric technicians, intake coordinators, compliance managers and social service aides.

Enrollment for upcoming academic terms is currently open. Prospective students and academic transfer candidates are encouraged to meet with program advisors to customize their degree maps based on their specific career and transfer goals. For details regarding course schedules and advising, visit the Montgomery College psychology program page.