Psychology at Pennsylvania State University Park Campus

The Psychology major will combine the knowledge, skills, and values of psychology with a liberal arts foundation. Students should develop a knowledge base consisting of concepts, theory, empirical findings, and trends within psychology; understand and apply basic research methods in psychology; use critical thinking and the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes; apply psychological principles to personal and social issues; and be able to understand the gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, culture, and class issues in psychological theory, research, and practice. Students should also develop information and computer competence, communication skills, and develop realistic ideas about how to implement their psychology education in occupational pursuits in a variety of settings.

The major may lead to either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree. The B.A. degree incorporates a broad exposure to the many facets of the field of psychology, in addition to the B.A. requirements. The B.S. degree provides the same exposure to the field of psychology and adds options in Science and Business to prepare students for more specific career directions. Students in both degree programs may also prepare for graduate school; research experience with faculty members is encouraged for such students.