PSYCHOLOGY - BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (B.S.) at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis

The Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology are Purdue University degrees offered in the Department of Psychology.

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The goals of psychology are to describe, explain, predict, and change behavior (observable actions) and mental processes (thoughts, feelings, memories, beliefs). In our department, we focus on four major themes throughout the undergraduate curriculum: 

1. psychology is a science

2. behavior is a function of person variables, environmental variables, and the interaction of person and environment

3. psychology has evolved in a socio-historical context, and its major theoretical perspectives reflect this phenomenon

4. socio-cultural context influences how psychological concepts are understood and applied.

You’ll experience an interactive learning environment, study challenging material, experience unparalleled research and internship opportunities. As early as freshman year, you’ll be encouraged to participate in research with renowned faculty. Students support each other through peer-advising, providing a unique environment where students become leaders by helping others.

You’ll graduate with a strong background in communication skills, critical thinking, scientific methodology, ethics and diversity. Our graduates are prepared to continue on to graduate school to earn master’s or doctoral degree in psychology. You could also opt to attend professional school, such as law, physical therapy, or medical school. Many of our graduates also go on to earn degrees in social work.

The majority of undergraduates who major in psychology do not go on to earn advanced degrees. Instead, they take a job immediately after graduation. Because our graduates can think critically about behavior and mental processes, they can use their knowledge in almost any setting. Our grads work in mental health services, social service, child development, and human resources.