Psychology

The psychology major provides a broadly based education in the content, methods, principles, and theories of the science of psychology. The required courses in the major expose students to the traditional important subject areas of psychology; the elective courses in the major allow students to pursue their own interests and goals. 

Typical bachelor’s level careers in mental health settings include hospitals, halfway houses/group homes, community agencies, and hospice programs. Some public sector and business-related careers are personnel testing, advertising, and human resources. For those who obtain a master’s or Ph.D. degree, career opportunities and pay expand significantly; jobs are available in mental health, research, teaching, and business. Some of the mental health careers for individuals with graduate degrees are clinical psychologist, social worker, professional counselor, marriage and family counselor, and school psychologist.

Students who intend to pursue graduate study in psychology or a related field should discuss this with their advisers as early as possible to develop a plan of study that will prepare them for graduate school. These students should plan to take more than the minimum 39 credits for the major and should complete an Independent Study Research Project (PSYC 499) or Externship (PSYC 410) under the guidance of a faculty member. They should also consider completing one or both of our certificate programs.

Students majoring in psychology may be eligible for membership in Psi Chi, the national honor society in psychology. This organization, which is affiliated with the Psychology Club, co-sponsors activities that are of broad interest to psychology students (e.g., workshops on graduate school, and discussions of employment opportunities). Consult the department for information about how to join Psi Chi and/or the Psychology Club, as well as for a schedule of events.