Bachelor of Arts at Nichols College
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs at Nichols College offer a powerful blend of liberal arts and career preparation, helping students develop the communication, analytical and leadership skills employers value most.
As a private college in Massachusetts, Nichols connects a strong liberal arts education with real-world experiences such as internships and consulting projects with top employers across Central Massachusetts and the greater New England region.
Students explore human behavior, culture and society through programs in Communication, Criminal Justice, Criminal Psychology, Economics and Psychology. Whether you’re analyzing trends, solving problems or leading change, you’ll build the foundation for meaningful work and lifelong learning.
Why a BA at Nichols College?
With small classes, personalized advising, professional internships and the opportunity to conduct research alongside faculty, you’ll graduate with both depth of knowledge and practical experience. Nichols alumni apply their BA degrees in industries ranging from law and counseling to public service, public relations, education and more, and join a strong and supportive network of graduates in Massachusetts, New England and beyond.
Learn More about Admissions for BA
Degree Programs to Earn Your BA at Nichols College
Nichols College offers Bachelor of Arts programs that combine a strong liberal arts foundation with practical experience to prepare students for careers or graduate study.
Communication
The BA in Communication develops skills in media, public relations, and organizational communication to prepare students for careers in business, media, marketing and nonprofit sectors.
Criminal Justice
The BA in Criminal Justice provides a broad understanding of law enforcement, corrections and public safety, preparing students for careers in policing, legal support and public service.
Criminal Psychology
The BA in Criminal Psychology blends psychology with the criminal justice system, focusing on behavior, motivation and mental health in the context of crime.
Economics
The BA in Economics equips students with knowledge of economic theory, data analysis and market trends, preparing them for careers in finance, business or government.
Psychology
The BA in Psychology explores human behavior, cognition and development, preparing students for careers in counseling, human services or graduate study in psychology.
Core Curriculum: Liberal Arts and General Education
The BA curriculum at Nichols College builds a foundation in the liberal arts, emphasizing writing, ethics, social awareness and critical thinking. Students complete a mix of general education and major-specific courses that develop both creative and analytical skills. This curriculum prepares students to think critically, communicate effectively and adapt to the complex challenges of today’s world.
Business Minor Requirement
Every Nichols College BA student completes a business minor, a hallmark of our approach to a well-rounded education. This integration ensures students graduate with a strong understanding of business fundamentals alongside their liberal arts expertise. By pairing a liberal arts major with a business minor, students develop the strategic and analytical skills needed for professional success across industries.
Tuition and Fees
Investing in a Nichols College education pays immediate and enduring dividends. We’re ranked ninth overall among undergraduate business schools for salary potential and are the 10th Best Value Business College in the nation according to Payscale. Our graduates earn $115,200 (on average) just 10 years into their careers. A full 98% of our students receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $30,000 per year. Let’s discuss how you can best afford a Nichols education.
Career Outcomes
A Nichols College BA degree gives you the adaptability and confidence to thrive in a changing world. Graduates pursue roles in business, law enforcement, human services, marketing and research, or continue to graduate and professional schools across New England. Graduates gain lifelong career support through the alumni network and the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC).
- 95% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months.
- 100% of BA students complete at least one internship, research, consulting or applied learning project.
- Access to 700+ employer and internship partners across New England
- Alumni employed at major organizations in the Northeast and across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bachelor of Arts
What majors are available under the BA degree at Nichols College?
Nichols College offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in Communication, Criminal Justice, Criminal Psychology, Economics, and Psychology. Many students also pursue research projects, community partnerships or honors-level capstones that tie their studies to real-world experience.
What’s the difference between a BA and a BSBA at Nichols College?
Our BA program focuses on liberal arts, research and communication, while our BSBA programs emphasize business and analytics. Both include internships and leadership training and share the Nichols College focus on career readiness, small classes and personalized faculty support.
Are internships required for BA students?
Yes, every BA student at Nichols College completes at least one internship, research project or applied learning experience before graduation. Students gain hands-on experience through placements in law offices, schools, marketing agencies, human services organizations and local government. Internships help build your resume, clarify your career goals and make valuable professional connections.
Can BA students pursue graduate education?
Absolutely. Nichols alumni have a strong record of success in graduate and professional schools. Many students pursue graduate education right here at Nichols College through our 3+1 or 4+1 master’s programs.
