BS in Psychology

Studies in modern psychology focus on mind, brain, and behavior. Based on empirical research with both humans and animals, psychologists investigate and seek explanations for the behavior and mental life of individuals and develop assessment tools and treatment options for addressing clinical problems. The psychology curriculum explores such topics as how brain function determines behavior; how we see, hear, and learn; what constitutes normal and abnormal personality; the nature of language and cognitive processing; how emotions affect behavior; and how individuals work in groups. Through laboratory practice and experimentation, individual research projects, and small-group seminars, the program provides the opportunity for critical evaluation and in-depth exploration across the diverse topic areas that constitute modern psychology. Students are eligible for directed study courses, which are individualized research experiences under the supervision of a faculty member. The department also offers honors sections of various courses. Co?op placements are varied and include both community (often mental health) and laboratory settings, depending on a student’s interests. A solid scientific background in psychology helps prepare students for academic careers in teaching and research, as well as professional careers in business, public and social services, education, mental health, law, and medicine. It also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in all areas of psychology, including clinical programs. General Program Goals - The Bachelor of Science degree program in Psychology is designed to provide a research-based undergraduate education for students with a broad range of interests in psychology. The major goals are: To prepare students to pursue graduate study in various subfields of psychology (e.g., clinical, educational, or research psychology); in such closely affiliated disciplines as cognitive science, neuroscience, and linguistics; and in such fields as health care and law, To prepare students who wish to pursue careers in a variety of settings that do not require graduate degrees. Specific Program Outcomes: Exhibit knowledge of main theoretical perspectives and major findings across broad areas of psychological science, e.g., social, cognitive, biological, developmental, and clinical, Show depth of knowledge in self-selected specific areas of study within psychological science, Explain alternative views and positions within areas of psychological science, Read and critique scientific articles, write effectively, and deliver effective oral presentations, Exhibit working knowledge of the diverse forms of descriptive, correlational and experimental research methods used in psychological science, Apply some of the major research methods, experimental designs, and analysis techniques used to investigate specific questions, Develop testable research questions, Demonstrate the ability to design and conduct psychological studies to address research questions, Exhibit skills in analyzing data, interpreting data, and communicating findings, Demonstrate the use of appropriate statistical/quantitative techniques for data analysis, Describe ethical issues involved in conducting research and in clinical work in psychological science, Participate with others in the exploration and scientific study of psychology; engage in thoughtful discussion with peers about alternative views and explanations, Describe connections with other disciplines, e.g., computer science, health sciences, linguistics, and neuroscience.