It is very common for students to select one major in undergraduate school, and change majors when they enter a graduate program. If you have earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, you might quickly realize that you prefer doing something completely different with your life after you walk the line. You may even discover your love for psychology while you are very close to completing your BS degree program. If you are wondering if you would need to complete more undergraduate classes, or if you can get a Master’s in Psychology with a BS in Biology, read on and learn what you need to know.

Understanding the Requirements to Enter a Master’s in Psychology Program

There is not a straightforward answer to your question, but in some cases you can earn a Master’s in Psychology with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Whether or not you will be accepted into a program with your existing BS degree depends on the institution’s requirements. Every institution offering accredited MS or MA degree program has a long list of requirements that applicants must meet before they can enter into the program. Requirements are focused around a list of prerequisites, the student’s conduct record, your academic record, the concentration of your bachelor’s degree, grade point average, and performance on a Grade Record Examination. As you can see, the concentration of your degree is a consideration, but there is still a chance that your BS in Biology will satisfy the requirements.

Common Prerequisites Required to Get Admitted Into a Master’s Program

The prerequisites for a Master of Science and a Master of Arts program may differ. If you already possess or are close to earning your BS in Biology, you will probably satisfy many of the prerequisites for a Master of Science in Psychology with your undergraduate degree. If you would like to earn a Master of Arts program for your Psychology degree, you may not satisfy many of the arts and humanities prerequisite requirements. Some of the pre-requisite requirements for Master’s degree programs with an focus on Psychology include:

* Statistics

* Child Psychology

* Abnormal Psychology

* Personality Psychology

* Research Design

You should check the specific requirements of the school that you are interested in studying at to find out if other classes are required. You may also have to take a GRE test with a focus on Psychology. If you want to take a Master of Arts program, you would need to have more completed coursework in humanities to enter into the program.

Your Personal Statement and How It Can Help You

If you were not required to complete all of the classes for your Bachelor’s Degree, you may need to return to school to complete these undergraduate classes before you can apply for admissions. The school may still accept the concentration of your undergraduate degree if these courses have been completed. During the application stage, you can submit a personal statement of extenuating circumstances. This statement can include reasons why you want to pursue a MS in Psychology rather than Biology so that the school officials have a greater understanding.

Your undergraduate degree does not necessarily need to be in the field you are pursuing when you study for your Master’s. Make sure to assess your goals, determine what your Master’s in Psychology will allow you to do in the field, and earn your Master’s.