Psychology, B.A.
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The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, under the Department of Psychology, provides students with a broad foundation in the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, emphasizing both theoretical perspectives and practical applications. The program highlights the development of research skills, including the design, analysis, and communication of empirical studies. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in helping professions as well as for graduate study in psychology and related fields. Students develop strong critical thinking, research, and interpersonal skills applicable to professional settings and everyday life.
Upon completing the program of study in Psychology, students will:
- Identify and explain major concepts, theoretical perspectives, and empirical findings in psychology.
- Locate, interpret, and critically evaluate scholarly literature in psychology and related disciplines.
- Design, conduct, analyze, and communicate empirical research using appropriate methodological and statistical approaches.
- Apply foundational psychological knowledge and skills to professional contexts, particularly in helping professions such as counseling and education.
Psychology, B.A. - General Psychology
This program provides structured preparation in the broad study of psychological science, including its major theoretical perspectives, research methods, and applications. Students develop a strong foundation in critical thinking and research skills while maintaining flexibility to explore individual interests. This concentration is recommended for students planning to pursue graduate study in psychology or related fields, as well as for those seeking versatile analytical and problem-solving skills applicable across professions.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CORE (21 credits)
PY 111 - Introduction to Psychology
PY 218 - Statistics for Behavioral Sciences
PY 311 - History and Systems of Psychology
PY 325 - Experimental Methods and Research Design
PY 340 - Psychological Assessment
PY 380 - Internship
PY 391 - Senior Seminar
CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS (24 credits)
PY 211 - Abnormal Psychology
PY 222 - Learning
PY 237 - Cognitive Psychology
PY 248 - Cultural Psychology
PY 321 - Personality
Select one (3 credits):
PY 214 - Death and Dying
PY 330 - Child Development
PY 341 - Adolescent Psychology
PY 350 - Adulthood and Aging
Select two (6 credits): Psychology (PY) courses in consultation with the advisor.
Psychology, B.A. - Child Studies (Traditional Undergraduate Program Only)
This program provides structured preparation for work with children, including those who are typically developing and those with diverse learning and developmental needs. Students examine developmental processes, educational contexts, and family systems, with an emphasis on evidence-based approaches. Graduates are prepared for employment or graduate study in education, child-focused services, and clinical or developmental fields.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CORE (21 credits)
PY 111 - Introduction to Psychology
PY 218 - Statistics for Behavioral Sciences
PY 311 - History and Systems of Psychology
PY 325 - Experimental Methods and Research Design
PY 340 - Psychological Assessment
PY 380 - Internship
PY 391 - Senior Seminar
CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS (24 credits)
PY 222 - Learning
PY 229 - Psychology of the Exceptional Child
PY 242 - Educational Psychology
PY 248 - Cultural Psychology
PY 255 - Risk and Resilience in Children and Families
PY 330 - Child Development
PY 341 - Adolescent Psychology
ED 212 - History and Philosophy of Education
Psychology, B.A. - Counseling and Mental Health (Traditional Undergraduate Program Only)
This program provides structured preparation for the study of prevention, assessment, and intervention related to behavioral, emotional, and mental health concerns. Students develop foundational knowledge in counseling approaches, psychopathology, and evidence-based practices across diverse populations.
This concentration is designed as a pre-professional pathway; students who wish to become licensed counselors or clinical practitioners must pursue graduate education and meet applicable state licensure requirements. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in human services or for advanced study in counseling, psychology, and related mental health fields.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CORE (21 credits)
PY 111 - Introduction to Psychology
PY 218 - Statistics for Behavioral Sciences
PY 311 - History and Systems of Psychology
PY 325 - Experimental Methods and Research Design
PY 340 - Psychological Assessment
PY 380 - Internship
PY 391 - Senior Seminar
CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS (24 credits)
PY 205 - Ethnic and Gender Issues in Mental Health
PY 210 - Behavior Modification
PY 211 - Abnormal Psychology
PY 213 - Counseling Techniques
PY 235 - Drug and Alcohol Abuse
PY 312 - Psychotherapy
PY 321 - Personality
Select one (3 credits): Psychology (PY) course in consultation with the advisor.
Psychology, B.A. - Human Services (Traditional Undergraduate Program Only)
This program provides structured preparation for work with populations and systems that require an understanding of human services delivery, behavioral health, and community-based interventions. Students generally pursue employment or graduate studies in human services or in community-based fields that emphasize service coordination, advocacy, and support across diverse settings.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CORE (21 credits)
PY 111 - Introduction to Psychology
PY 218 - Statistics for Behavioral Sciences
PY 311 - History and Systems of Psychology
PY 325 - Experimental Methods and Research Design
PY 340 - Psychological Assessment
PY 380 - Internship
PY 391 - Senior Seminar
CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS (24 credits)
HS 101 - Introduction to Human Services
HS 224 -
PY 210 - Behavior Modification
PY 211 - Abnormal Psychology
PY 213 - Counseling Techniques
PY 235 - Drug and Alcohol Abuse
PY 250 - Community Psychology
SO 212 - Social Work: History and Practice
WRITING IN THE DISCIPLINE DESIGNATED COURSE