Overview
Options
- B.A. and B.S. in psychology
- Minor in psychology
- Early-entry bachelor’s/master’s program
BROAD, FLEXIBLE, AND COMPREHENSIVE
Built on a solid foundation of statistical and research methods, these flexible plans of study allow students to tailor their studies to their own interests and career goals. The department encourages students to integrate their other interests with their study of psychology. The degree programs prepare graduates for careers in psychology — or any of the vast array of professions in which methods of analyzing and understanding human behavior are helpful. Key skills graduates develop include:
- Designing studies to test a given hypothesis
- Collecting data about human subjects
- Analyzing statistical and qualitative data
- Communications and interpersonal skills
LEARNING TO EXPERIMENT
As a science, psychology is an ever-evolving, dynamic field. At Valpo, students don’t simply learn about scientific advances; they participate in them. The research program gives students access to excellent laboratory facilities and the mentorship of a dedicated teaching faculty. Psychology students often present research at professional conferences, and Valpo professors frequently co-author research studies with students. Alumni report that such research opportunities help them advance in their professional settings.
LEARNING TO SERVE
Outstanding faculty offer students a wealth of expertise in a variety of areas, and relationships with local agencies and businesses ensure that Valpo students can gain solid practical experiences in workplaces that employ psychologists. With support and guidance of faculty and field supervisors, Valpo students have worked with individuals challenged by developmental and emotional issues; criminal offenders; survivors of abuse; and various other populations. In addition to clinical applications, we offer courses in the following areas of applied psychology:
- Environmental psychology
- Industrial/organizational psychology
- Psychology and law
Valpo’s psychology department offers a number of degree programs tailored to fit individual needs. Each degree program introduces students to statistical and experimental methods, along with the major branches of the discipline. Hands-on research experience is required of every major; courses with laboratory components, research assistantships, and independent research projects are all available.
Majors/Minor in Psychology
This degree offers a broad background in psychology to students pursuing a second major or minor in any discipline, including arts, humanities, and social sciences. It requires 27 credit hours of coursework. Degree Requirements»
This degree, designed for students who pursue a second major in a scientific discipline (qualifying disciplines include astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, geography, mathematics, meteorology, and physics), is a popular choice among students who plan to pursue careers in the health professions. Degree Requirements»
This degree option, often chosen by students who plan to pursue graduate study or careers in psychology, offers rigorous training and provides a solid background in the major areas of the discipline. It does not require the student to have any minor or second major. Degree Requirements »
A minor in psychology complements most other academic disciplines and provides students with a solid foundation in psychology that will enhance vocational or avocational pursuits. A minimum of five courses with a total of at least 15 credit hours in psychology constitutes a minor. Courses for the minor must include General Psychology (110, with or without lab), Statistical Methods (PSY 201), and one course, with or without laboratory, chosen from the experimental psychology course group.
| Core courses: | 6-7 credits | |
| PSY 110 | General Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 111 | Laboratory in General Experimental Psychology (optional) | 1 |
| PSY 201 | Statistical Methods | 3 |
| One course from the following options (with or without a laboratory): | 3 credits | |
| PSY 215 | Life Span Development | 3 |
| PSY 225 | Social Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 235 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 245 | Physiological Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 250 | Principles and Applications of Learning | 3 |
| PSY 345 | Sensation and Perception | 3 |
| PSY 350 | Human Cognition | 3 |
| PSY 375 | Human Neuropsychology | 3 |
| Six* additional credits in Psychology | 6-7 credits | |
| Total | 15 credits | |
| *Students in the College of Nursing and Health Professions are required to complete at least 18 total credits in Psychology to earn a minor. |