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Psychology B.A.

Understand how people interact with each other and what drives behavior. Learn more about the human experience and make lives better.
A person standing in a fitness center
Originally on a pre-med track, Alisamarie Yiatras ’21 switched to psychology with a minor in addiction studies after discovering her passion for counseling people who misuse substances.

About this Program

  • Engage in the scientific study of behavior by exploring the human mind.
  • Work side-by-side with faculty and graduate students on cutting-edge research, exploring topics such as substance use, autism, ADHD, romantic relationships, prejudice, memory and decision-making.
  • Take part in the SPARC summer research experience, a seven-week program in which students from underrepresented groups work closely with faculty and graduate student mentors on an original research project.
  • Challenge yourself as a Renée Crown University Honors student.
  • Join the Psychology Club to network and collaborate with students in the program.
  • Gain a variety of skills to succeed in graduate school, professional school and the workplace.
  • Students have the opportunity to join the Psychology in Action Living Learning Community.

Program Information

Degree Type

Major

Outcome

B.A.

Modality

In-person

College or School

Career Path

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College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) is Syracuse University’s first and largest college. As the home of the liberal arts, our internationally recognized programs provide the cornerstone of a Syracuse University education with 50+ majors in the natural sciences and mathematics, the humanities and the social sciences (in partnership with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs).
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Curriculum

This robust curriculum is strengthened by research into individual and social problems. Core coursework encompasses statistics, biology and human behavior alongside practical experience in the lab or the field.

  • Identify the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings and historical trends relevant to the foundational domains of psychology, including cognitive, social, clinical and developmental bases of behavior.
  • Formulate testable research hypotheses, design a simple study to test the hypothesis, and apply appropriate statistical tests to answer basic research questions relevant to the field of psychology.
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of the American Psychological Association ethical guidelines and their applications in the context of conducting psychological research.
  • Employ the effective use of written and oral communication in the psychological sciences.
  • Demonstrate the ability to effectively work in the field of psychology through involvement in faculty-mentored research, community-based internships and independent study.

Either the B.A. or B.S. degree is appropriate for students planning to pursue graduate study in psychology, and also for students planning other careers in which a background in psychology is useful (e.g., medicine, business, communications, social services or law).

The B.S. degree is an option for students who are interested in taking significantly more physical and laboratory science classes than are required for the B.A. degree.

  • Introduction to Research Methodology
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • The Social Psychology of Stigma
  • Internships in Clinical Psychology
  • Laboratory in Forensic Psychology

Extracurricular Opportunities

Student organization

Psychology Club

The Psychology Club provides opportunities to enhance your understanding of and appreciation for the field of psychology through a variety of organized social activities, professional development opportunities and community service. No matter your major, if you are interested in this subject, you are encouraged to join the Psychology Club.

Research

Undergraduate Research in Psychology

The Department of Psychology offers instruction on research, as well as many opportunities to gain firsthand experience in a research lab as early as your first year on campus. Research experience is often a great way to apply classroom teachings to real-world settings, build a resume/CV and determine if graduate school is the right fit for you.

Research

SPARC

SPARC (Summer Program Advancing Research Careers) is a highly selective, seven-week intensive research experience for Syracuse University undergraduates from underrepresented groups. Students have the opportunity to complete a research project and present their work to the University community at a conference at the conclusion of the program, as well as attend a weekly professional development series.

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Learn more about this program

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