COURSE CURRICULUM

The Psychology degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with both a strong foundation in core psychological theories and practical experience through various applied learning opportunities. Students are required to complete a minimum of 44 credits, including 32 upper-division credits, ensuring a deep and rigorous understanding of psychological concepts. Core courses such as General Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Research Design and Statistics, and Physiological Psychology introduce students to fundamental aspects of the field. Additionally, students must choose between clinical or research practicum courses, which provide hands-on experience in mental health settings or research labs, bridging the gap between theory and practice.Beyond the core requirements, students select from a range of electives that cover developmental, cognitive, social, and cultural psychology, allowing for tailored academic experiences. To further specialize, the program offers optional emphasis areas that align with diverse career paths. These include Family and Child Development, Law and Criminal Behavior, Business and Organizational Psychology, Clinical and Behavioral Applications, Psychobiology, Health and Wellness, and Sports Psychology. Each emphasis area requires students to complete targeted coursework, integrating interdisciplinary perspectives from communication, sociology, criminal justice, biology, and philosophy.The Family and Child Development emphasis, for example, focuses on psychological growth and social relationships within family contexts, while the Law and Criminal Behavior emphasis prepares students for roles related to forensic psychology and criminal justice. Business and Organizational Psychology emphasizes workplace behavior and leadership, providing skills for organizational development. Clinical and Behavioral Applications prepare students for careers in counseling and psychotherapy. Psychobiology and Health & Wellness emphasize the biological and physical aspects of behavior and health, with many courses including lab components. The Sports Psychology emphasis combines physical activity studies with psychological principles to enhance athletic performance and well-being.Overall, the program is designed to foster critical thinking, research skills, and practical knowledge. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in clinical settings, research, community services, business, or continue their education in graduate or professional programs. The diverse coursework and practicum experiences ensure students are prepared to meet the complex demands of the psychology field.