Psychology, B.A.

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Psychology is one of the fastest growing areas for employment in America. As scientists and practitioners, psychologists seek to explore and understand the connection between human thinking, emotion, behavior, and social environments.As health service professionals, psychologists treat people with emotional and mental challenges. Other psychologists concentrate on behaviors that affect healthy individuals, such as in the areas of business and athletics. While others conduct research studies to investigate phenomena and provide answers to key questions prevalent in human psychology today. To become a psychologist, one needs to complete a doctoral degree in psychology.

The major in psychology at the University of Saint Francis is designed to prepare the student for further graduate study in psychology (or related field) or build skills for competent work in the field upon graduation. The major and minors provided in the psychology program are also designed to help students develop strong critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. This program also strives to cultivate in each student an appreciation for individual differences, a reverence for the dignity and worth of each person, and an understanding of the human person from a variety of perspectives. These skills are useful in a number of different professions such that an undergraduate degree in psychology can be useful in paving the way for a successful career in a variety of fields.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who major in Psychology at the University of Saint Francis will:

• Demonstrate a knowledge base of psychology and application of psychological ideas
• Demonstrate an understanding of scientific inquiry and critical thinking
• Demonstrate an understanding of ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world
• Demonstrate competence in communication skills through academic writing
• Demonstrate competence in communication skills through presentation of information
• Demonstrate application of psychology-specific content and skills that support professionaldevelopment

Degree Requirements

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology requires 120 credit hours, which includes:

• Franciscan Core Curriculum Courses: 36-37 credit hours
• Psychology Major Required Courses: 40 credit hours
• Psychology Content-Specific Electives: 15 credit hours
• Optional Cognitive Neuroscience Concentration: 18 credit hours
• Electives: 10-29 credit hours from any discipline to complete a minimum of 120 credit hours