Single area: a minimum of 8 courses/24 credits (both minimums must be met). Courses should be on the intermediate and/or advanced level (those courses usually have at least one prerequisite in the same discipline). Faculty can require more.

One of a Dual area: a minimum of 6 intermediate and/or advanced courses/18 credits in each area. Faculty can require more.

The title of the AOC is appropriate and accurately reflects the chosen courses.

The courses make up a coherent plan of study that increases in complexity over time.

The courses will prepare the student for graduate study.

All courses listed are from a department at a senior campus that offers a BA or BS in the appropriate field. Graduate courses can be included.

If applicable (e.g., if there is prior-to-entry credit accepted towards the area), at least 50% of the AOC will be completed as a CUNY BA student.

For all areas of concentration in psychology, experimental psychology must be included. (Statistics must also be taken and can be used as an elective or core distribution course.)

All courses are being taken for letter grades (not Pass/Fail of Credit/No Credit), unless a particular course is only offered P/F or C/NC. Students who entered the program in Summer 2008 or later must complete all AOC courses for a grade of at least C-.

Two mentors are needed for dual areas or interdisciplinary areas.

Students can include two independent studies/internships in an area (6 credits total); they must provide their mentor and the program’s Academic Director with a one paragraph description of their studies when completed.