Leeza Black has always wanted to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology but worried she wouldn’t be able to manage a college workload, especially as an expectant mother.  

Her worries vanished after joining our online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program. “I was able to work full time, while being pregnant, raise another little child, be a wife, and take on courses at UTPB.”  

Leeza posing with her daughters.

Black was kind enough to share her experience as an online psychology student at The University of Texas Permian Basin. Her story serves to inspire others who face seemingly insurmountable challenges on their way to earning their degree.  

Her Impression of Online Learning 

As a Falcon, Black enjoyed the freedom and flexibility online learning offers. “I would not have been able to maintain a degree if I had to travel to attend classes,” she explained. “So, having my whole program online made my dream of achieving a bachelor’s degree possible.” Aside from weekly deadlines, students are encouraged to study and complete coursework at their own pace. 

“I think sometimes not having in-person teaching can be different,” Black added, “but at UTPB, it felt like I was learning exactly what I needed to be successful.” UT Permian Basin’s mission is to cultivate engaged citizens and impact lives. The University achieves this, in part, by helping students gain a competitive advantage in today’s job market.  

Throughout its comprehensive curriculum, our online psychology degree program emphasizes organizational, communication, and research skills that will prepare you for the next phase of your career.  

Her Experience With Professors and Advisors 

Our online psychology degree program is led by a team of expert faculty members who share a deep commitment to education. “I think what surprised me the most was every professor I had genuinely cared for their students and wanted them to be successful,” said Black, noting how amazing all her psychology professors were. 

Black’s professors were always responsive to questions. “More than responsive,” she remarked. “Each one cared for your success and wanted to make sure you were doing well in your class and understanding the material.” Professors typically respond to communications within 24 hours, but don’t be surprised if the professors at UT Permian Basin respond much sooner.  

The same can be said for academic advisors. Students are paired with a dedicated academic advisor who specializes in their major and can meet via virtual appointment. Malakhi Macareno is the academic advisor for freshman and sophomore psychology majors. “I would say I was astonished at my advisor,” said Black. “He went above and beyond to make sure I was doing well and taking the correct courses for my degree. Anytime I felt overwhelmed, he always reassured me.” Whether speaking with professors or advisors, our students never have to navigate their academic path alone.  

Her Preference for Virtual Classrooms 

Black was so impressed with the online format that she now prefers it to traditional learning. “I love that I could receive my degree entirely online and was able to maintain my full-time job and my family,” said Black. “I think online is the way to go.” 

UT Permian Basin’s online courses are offered through Canvas, a learning management system. Within Canvas, students can access everything they need to succeed in their courses, including syllabi, modules, and calendars. “Online, I was able to download the Canvas app, which let me check in on my courses or quickly send a message to my professor or classmates on the go,” said Black.  

Her Hard-Fought Journey 

Black graduated from UT Permian Basin in 2023 and is the first woman in her family to earn a college degree. She explained the challenges she overcame to realize her dream:  

“I had all the odds stacked against me … I had no support and no one to look up to when it came to higher education. I had to break the cycle so that my two girls have a better life and [an] example to look up to when it came to pursuing their dream of getting their degree.” 

From navigating the application process to applying for financial aid, first-generation college students face many challenges. We’re proud our online psychology degree program can alleviate some of the stress for first-generation college students like Black.  

Earn Your Online Psychology Degree at UT Permian Basin  

Black hopes to one day earn a master’s degree in psychology. Now that she holds a bachelor’s degree from UT Permian Basin, she’s one step closer to making her dream a reality. 

Leeza proudly displays her UT Permian Basin diploma.

UT Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program provides a strong foundation in psychological science. Throughout our program, students learn to analyze empirical research, craft persuasive arguments, and think critically about both the theoretical and practical aspects of psychology. Courses include: 

  • Introduction to Psychology 
  • Introduction to Statistics 
  • Experimental Psychology 

With the knowledge, skills, and experience gained from this program, students are prepared to thrive in a wide variety of fields, including human resources, social services, and marketing. Alternatively, graduates can continue their education and pursue terminal degrees, as Black plans to do.   

Apply now to UT Permian Basin’s online BA in psychology program. If Black—a mother, wife, and full-time worker—can pull it off, so can you.