Below are the major points to consider when working with your mentee and reviewing area forms.

• 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.
• At least half of the AOC will be completed as a CUNY Baccalaureate student. (No more than half of an AOC can be made up of coursework prior to enrolling in the Program.)
• 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 Baccalaureate 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.