Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences Psychology Program

The Psychology Program provides a curriculum designed to develop a broad foundation of knowledge in the discipline of psychology and to equip students for pursuing careers in a variety of fields, such as mental health, drug/alcohol counseling, community/social services, business, advertising, marketing, and education. In addition, an undergraduate degree from our program provides an excellent foundation for graduate study. Students who major in psychology take a common core of courses to attain a comprehensive knowledge base of the discipline, an understanding of research methods used by psychologists, and hands-on research experience. Electives provide a deeper understanding of sub-topics within the field.

Our program is dedicated to student-centered research. Students have several opportunities to gain practical, hands-on research experience. In particular, our program houses the Human Psychophysiology Laboratory, a teaching lab equipped with state-of-the-art recording equipment. This lab is a student-centered workplace where undergraduates are trained in the measurement and analysis of the physiological underpinnings of emotional and mental processes.

Undergraduates in our program also have the opportunity to take part in the Psychology Club. Students in this club benefit from tutoring and study groups for psychology courses, learn about careers in psychology and what to do after graduation, learn about preparing for graduate school, and are involved in a variety of community service activities. Moreover, top academic achievers may become a member of our chapter of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology. This international recognition is an impressive honor that can be noted on employment applications, vitae, and resumes.

1. To provide students with a strong knowledge base of psychology’s key concepts, principles, overarching themes, and applications.
2. To engage students in scientific reasoning to interpret, design, and conduct psychological research.
3. To foster sensitivity to the ethical standards in research and an appreciation for human diversity.
4. To develop effective verbal and written communication skills.
5. To provide an atmosphere of professional development in order to prepare students for graduate school and the workforce.

The Psychology Program requires a minimum of 120 semester hours for a Bachelor of Science degree. These include general education and institutional requirements, psychology required courses and psychology electives. A major in psychology requires 21 semester hours of core course work.