Trauma Studies, Associate in Science

This program provides students with a broad understanding of psychological trauma, its impact on individuals and communities, and trauma-informed approaches to care. Coursework includes Orientation for Trauma Studies, Introduction to Trauma Studies, Trauma-Informed Care and Frontline Work, Trauma, Resilience and Posttraumatic Growth, and Trauma Loss and Grief. Students completing the degree will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue entry-level positions in human services, education, and community health, or for further studies at a four-year university. 

The department expects 40–50 students to complete the Trauma Studies AS degree annually once the program is fully established. Statewide labor market demand indicates strong employment potential for graduates, with median wages for related positions ranging from $47,000 to $60,000 annually. 

The Trauma Studies Associate in Science Degree is designed to prepare students for employment in trauma-informed human services, education, nonprofit, community, and healthcare settings. Students will develop foundational knowledge of trauma psychology, trauma-informed care practices, and crisis intervention skills. Graduates will be equipped for entry-level roles such as case management, peer support, social service assistance, and frontline crisis response. The degree also provides a strong academic foundation for further studies at four-year universities.  

Coursework includes Orientation for Trauma Studies, Introduction to Trauma Studies, Trauma-Informed Care and Frontline Work, Trauma, Resilience and Posttraumatic Growth, and Trauma Loss and Grief. Students completing the degree will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue entry-level positions in human services, education, and community health, or for further studies at a four-year university. 

Required Courses: 

PSY_TS 39 Orientation for Trauma Studies                1 unit        Yr 1 Fall 

PSY_TS 40 Introduction to Trauma Studies                3 units        Yr 1 Fall 

PSY_TS 41 Trauma Informed Care and Frontline Work            3 units         Yr 1 Spr 

PSY_TS 42, Trauma, Resilience and Posttraumatic Growth         3 units         Yr 2 Fall 

PSY_TS 43, Trauma of Loss and Grief                    3 units        Yr 2 Spr 

PSYC C1000 1 Introduction to Psychology                3 units         Yr 1 Fall 

PSYCH 14, Abnormal Psychology                     3 units               Yr 1 Spr 

Subtotal Units 19 

 In addition, completed THREE (3) units from the following: 

PSYCH 11 Social Psychology                         3 units         Yr 2 Fall 

PSYCH 4 Psychology of Adjustment                     3 units        Yr 2 Spr 

Subtotal Units 3 

Required Subtotal Units 22 

 Complete one of the following:   

LBCC-GE   

Cal-GETC    

Electives (as needed to reach 60 degree-applicable units)    

Minimum Degree Total 60 

LBCC currently offers the Trauma Studies Certificate of Achievement (16 units), which has demonstrated high student interest and strong enrollment growth. The AS degree builds on this foundation by expanding course offerings and formalizing a pathway to both employment and transfer. There are no other comparable associate degree programs in Trauma Studies at LBCC. 

There are currently no Trauma Studies Associate Degrees offered at neighboring community colleges in the Los Angeles and Orange County regions. This degree will position LBCC as a leader in trauma-informed education, meeting both workforce and academic transfer needs in a high-demand field. 

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