Psychology
Department of Psychology
Concentrations
Business
General
Health Studies
Human Services
Natural Science
Social Sciences
Psychologists study animal and human behavior and related mental, physiological and social processes in an attempt to understand the dynamics of behavior. They also apply knowledge already attained to the prevention and solution of both individual and social problems. The Psychology Department offers courses in abnormal behavior; learning and cognition; physiological, social and developmental psychology; personality; and statistics, including the application of computer techniques to psychology-related activities. Theory and research in these areas are applied by clinical, counseling, educational and organizational psychologists. Undergraduates do not specialize but are exposed to all areas of the field. In order to be a professional psychologist, a student must obtain at least a master's degree in the field. Most areas of study, especially clinical psychology, are becoming increasingly competitive and often require five years or more to obtain a doctorate. A variety of jobs are open to those with bachelor's degrees. Possibilities exist in academic, industrial and government laboratories, in personnel and related work in business and industry, some types of counseling, job analysis, corrections and social service agencies. Because psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, the scientific background and conceptual abilities of graduates are appealing to a variety of employers. In addition, job opportunities exist for those who can use computers effectively in working on problems whose solutions require psychological knowledge and training.
Related Career Titles
| Art Therapist | Job Developer Labor Relations Manager Labor Relations Specialist Market Research Analyst Marketing/Sales Manager Mental Health Coordinator Minority Group & Race Relations Director Motivational Researcher Music Therapist Nonprofit Director Occupational Therapist Personnel Interviewer Personnel Manager Press Liaison Prisoner Classification Interviewer Probation Officer Psychiatrist Psychologist Public Health Statistician Public Opinion Surveyor Public Relations Representative Recreation Specialist Regulatory Administrator Sales Representative Social Service Administrator Social Worker Teacher Television/Media Research Training & Develop Professional Wage/Benefits Analyst Youth Corrections Officer |
Related Major Skills
| Able to Observe, Analyze, & Interpret Information Able to Promote Healthy Relationships Ability to Resolve or Mediate Conflicts Concern for and Sensitivity to Others Critical and Inferential Thinking Decision Making Engage in Ethical Practice | Good Listener Insight to Deal Effectively with People Interpersonal Communication (oral and written) Interviewing Techniques Knowledge of Human Development & Behavior Problem Solving Understanding of Group Dynamics |
Professional Organizations & Associations
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
American Counseling Association
American Mental Health Counselors Association
American Psychological Association
American Public Health Association
National Institute of Mental Health
Social Psychology Network
