Learning Goals in the Psychology Major

The Psychology major is based on the premise that the discipline involves a broad-based understanding of Psychology as both a social science and as a natural science. The major is structured to enable students to identify and discuss key concepts, theories, and leaders in physiological, sensation and perception, behavioral, cognitive, health, social, personality, developmental, and clinical psychology.

Foundations

Students will:

• display a capacity for critical thinking through analysis of scientific literature
• develop a recognition of the importance of diversity (e.g., race, ethnicity, class, gender, age, sexual orientation, etc.) in understanding human behavior
• have knowledge of the ethical responsibilities of the scholarly discipline and profession of psychology

Methods

Students will:

• gain knowledge of research design and acquire skills in statistical analysis for both correlational and experimental studies in psychology
• design, execute, and report on an independent research investigation
• demonstrate ability with relevant electronic databases and statistical software programs

Areas Of Knowledge

Students will:

• understand how psychologists study human behavior with particular attention to three broad subject areas: social psychology, clinical psychology, and experimental psychology
• master key concepts, theories, and controversies in these three areas
• gain an understanding of the methods and responsibilities of the profession of psychology
• demonstrate proficiency in literature review, analysis, and scientific writing in the tradition of this discipline

Advanced Study

Students will:

• conduct advanced analysis of topics by completing at least three upper-level courses spread among at least two of the three broad areas described earlier
• critique prominent theoretical models, describe advanced research methods and findings, and outline the associated professional and scholarly issues

Graduate Study And Career Preparation

Students will:

• be prepared for graduate study and/or employment in psychology or in a variety of psychology-related disciplines and positions