Psychology is the multidimensional scientific study of behavior and thought processes. Psychologists study the structure and function of the nervous system; basic processes such as sensation, perception, and cognition; and complex phenomena such as development, individual behavior, group dynamics, personality, and abnormal behavior. The psychology major provides students with a broad background for understanding behavior through exposure to theories and scientific research across a range of these subdisciplines. Students thus acquire the preparation necessary to pursue graduate training in clinical or research psychology or to enhance the pursuit of related professions such as education, social work, medicine, or criminal justice.

A minimum of 41 credits for the major in psychology is required as well as a minimum 2.5 grade-point average (GPA) in the major. The credits must include:

Core Courses

21:830:101,102 Principles of Psychology (first or sophomore year) (3,3)

21:830:301 Psychology Statistical Methods (sophomore or junior year) (4)

21:830:302 Psychology Research Methods (sophomore or junior year) (4)

Area Requirements (15 credits total)

Multicultural Area (3 credits)

21:830:322 Cross-Cultural Psychology (3)
21:830:332 Psychology of Religion (3)
21:830:341 Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination (3)
21:830:375 Community Psychology (3)
21:830:469 Psychology of Sexual Orientation (3)

Cognition/Neuroscience Area (6 credits)

21:830:304 Cognitive Processes (3)
21:830:330 Psychology of Learning (3)
21:830:411 Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience (3)
21:830:484 Behavioral Neuroscience (3)

Social/Development/Abnormal Area (6 credits)

21:830:323 Developmental Psychology (3)
21:830:335 Social Psychology (3)
21:830:363 Abnormal Psychology (3)
21:830:371 Personality (3)
21:830:405 Psychology of Emotions (3)

Electives

12 additional elective credits in psychology

A GPA of 2.5 or better in the major is required.

For students interested in counseling or social services, a double major with social work provides hands-on opportunities through coursework and field experiences. Advising should be obtained from both departments.