(Bachelor of Science)

Psychology is the systematic and scientific study of behavior and mental processes (e.g., memory, emotion). It seeks to explain how physiological, personal, cultural, social, developmental, and environmental conditions influence thought and action. Research aims to understand, predict, and influence behavior.

In the past century, psychology has moved from being a branch of philosophy to being both an experimental science and an active helping profession.  Likewise, psychologists work in a variety of settings where their expertise in human behavior is applied to increase efficiency, assist in product design, improve work conditions, and more. To quote the American Psychological Association, “In every conceivable setting from scientific research centers to mental healthcare services, ‘the understanding of behavior’ is the enterprise of psychologists” (www.apa.org).

A strong grasp of psychology also requires knowledge of the approach and content of considered core to the field as a whole.  Students gain this understanding by completing coursework in the primary areas of Psychology: Research Methods, Physiological/Cognitive, Social/Personality, Culture/Gender, and Clinical/Counseling. Students complete the major by choosing additional courses to meet individual needs with the help of their Professional Advisor. Students should consult with their Faculty Mentor about career planning and professional development.

The program offers special opportunities for qualified students to strengthen their professional preparation. Psychology faculty frequently work with students on collaborative research projects. Support for advanced student research is enhanced by technology in several research labs. Although all courses are taught by faculty members, undergraduate teaching assistantships allow students to master course content and receive valuable training in the teaching of psychology. Internships can be acquired in a variety of university and community settings.

Psychology helps to deepen understanding of individual and social behavior and provides a strong general background for many careers. Psychology graduates are employed in a variety of positions with their bachelor’s degree, including in social and community service, business, research, and education-related fields from after-school programs to college admissions. Because of the wide range of possibilities, students should select courses and pursue applied experiences relevant to the occupational area of greatest interest. Preparation for specialized professional work — such as testing, counseling, university teaching, consulting, and many research activities — usually requires a master’s or doctoral degree. Psychology majors have pursued graduate school in many fields, including psychology sub-disciplines such as experimental, developmental, neuroscience, industrial/organizational, social, sport, exercise, and performance psychology, clinical, counseling, and school psychology, as well as the related fields of social work, education, medicine, law, and business.

There are many different complementary minors. They vary based on individual interests and future career or educational goals, so students are encouraged to discuss options with an advisor.

Psychology Learning Outcomes

Goal 1: Knowledge Base in Psychology 
1.1 Describe key concepts, principles, and overarching themes in psychology 
1.2 Develop a working knowledge of psychology’s content domains 
1.3 Describe applications of psychology

Goal 2: Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking
2.1 Use scientific reasoning to interpret psychological phenomena 
2.2 Demonstrate psychology information literacy 
2.3 Engage in innovative and integrative thinking and problem solving 
2.4 Interpret, design, and conduct basic psychological research 
2.5 Incorporate sociocultural factors in scientific inquiry 

Goal 3: Ethical and Social Responsibility in a Diverse World
3.1 Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science and practice 
3.2 Build and enhance interpersonal relationships 
3.3 Adopt values that build community at local, national, and global levels

Goal 4: Communication
4.1 Demonstrate effective writing for different purposes 
4.2 Exhibit effective presentation skills for different purposes
4.3 Interact effectively with others 

Goal 5: Professional Development
5.1 Apply psychological content and skills to career goals 
5.2 Exhibit self-efficacy and self-regulation 
5.3 Refine project-management skills 
5.4 Enhance teamwork capacity 
5.5 Develop meaningful professional direction for life after graduation