Psychology is the science that deals with the brain and human behavior in all its forms: psychological, cognitive, emotional, individual, and group. Its methods range from those similar to the ones used in the humanities to those used in the natural sciences. It offers students a perspective which is not only a career in itself but also a useful adjunct to any discipline.

The Department of Psychology offers an undergraduate program that leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a graduate program which leads to a Master of Arts in Gerontology. In both of these programs, the department prepares students for careers in those areas that make particular use of a knowledge of human behavior and development. These include human resource and personnel positions in industry, direct service work in the social services, and research associate positions in academic and industrial settings. Students are also prepared for pursuing further education in any of the major areas of psychology.

The department faculty members represent a number of theoretical approaches as well as a wide range of content areas. This enhances the student's opportunity to become acquainted with the full scope of this broad and complex subject. Because of the need to create a combination of courses consistent with their career goals, students are urged to form a continuing relationship with a faculty advisor in the department early in their major.

The interdisciplinary nature of psychology requires familiarity with other fields. Students intending to pursue graduate studies should have a strong background in mathematics and the natural sciences. All psychology majors will benefit from course work in philosophy, physiology, literature, history, the social sciences, and computer science.

Students should seriously consider participating in the optional field experience program. For details, see the section on Field Experience. Additional information is available from the department program advisor.

Minors in psychology and in gerontology are also offered.