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Pursuing a Psychology Major

Psychology is a hub discipline, in that our research and theories influence multiple fields. This work has become increasingly central to public policy and to industry. Students who work with or develop innovations for people benefit from a foundation in the science of human behavior. We recently implemented skill-based certificates within our existing major program to meet student demand and better communicate the skills of our majors to employers. We actively seek to involve students in research or internships early in their careers to give them hands-on experience with the scientific rigor and logic of psychological science, and in the application of that science in the workplace. The combination of our scholars' expertise and innovative research programs provides an excellent venue for students to develop their professional skills inside and outside of the classroom.

Degree Requirements

Students majoring in psychology may earn either the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. The psychology course requirements for the two degrees are identical; the two degree plans differ with respect to the requirements in other disciplines. For example, the B.A. degree requires courses in a foreign language and extra humanities hours, whereas the B.S. degree requires additional hours in the physical and biological sciences. The two degrees are offered to allow students to complete their non-psychology course of study in fields most relevant to their interests and/or career plans. Both degrees provide students with the necessary curriculum requirements to pursue graduate study in psychology, as well as in other professional fields, such as law and medicine.

Psychology majors can also choose from one of four optional certificate programs. If chosen, the certificate specifies coursework within Psychology that will develop a particular skill and knowledge set.

See the advising tabs for information and forms for the programs.