Psychological Science, B.A.

Psychological Science

Objectives for the Program in Psychological Science

The goal of the Psychological Science Program is to educate students in the scientific study of the mind and human behavior. The program combines theoretical, methodological, and applied topics enabling students to acquire knowledge and skills that enrich their personal lives, work careers, and future academic pursuits. The Psychological Science program has particular strengths in cognitive psychology, counseling/clinical psychology, school psychology, and industrial/organizational psychology and offers specialized concentrations in Cognitive Science and Applied Psychology.

Bachelor of Art students are required to have foreign language proficiency at the intermediate level.

Psychological Science

Two concentrations are available to any student majoring in Psychological Science, a concentration in Cognitive Science and a concentration in Applied Psychology, however it is not necessary for students to pursue a concentration in order to fulfill the requirements of the Psychological Science Major. The concentration is a special option available for students with specific interests in the fields of cognitive science or applied psychology.

Student Learning Outcomes

Psychological Science Program Learning Outcomes (based on the American Psychological Association program standards):

• P.L.O. #1: Use basic psychological vocabulary, concepts, and theories to describe, explain, and/or predict behavior, including advantages and limitations of the selected concepts/ frameworks
• P.L.O. #2:  Describe examples of relevant and practical applications of psychological principles to individual and societal needs (e.g. health, public policy, education, employment, diversity)
• P.L.O. #3:  Critically read and summarize complex ideas accurately, including generalizability and/or future directions, from psychological sources and research
• P.L.O. #4:  Describe research methods used by psychologists including their respective advantages and disadvantages
• P.L.O. #5:  Replicate or design and conduct simple scientific studies (e.g., correlational or two-factor) to confirm a hypothesis based on operational definitions
• P.L.O. #6:  Evaluate psychological research from the standpoint of adherence to the APA Ethics Code in psychological research involving human or nonhuman research participants
• P.L.O. #7:  Evaluate critically or complete an IRB application that adheres to ethical standards
• P.L.O. #8:  Identify and explain how context,  individual differences, worldview, and diversity (e.g., race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, sexuality, religion, ability, identity) influence human behavior and development
• P.L.O. #9: Construct arguments clearly and concisely using evidence-based psychological concepts and theories
• P.L.O. #10:  Write using basic attributes of APA style, including formatting, internal citation, and references
• P.L.O. #11:  Create a coherent and integrated oral and/or written argument based on a review of the pertinent psychological literature
• P.L.O. #12:  Achieve effective delivery standards in professional oral performance (including organization, visual aids, time constraints, intended audience, delivery style)
• P.L.O. #13:  Recognize the value and application of research and problem-solving skills in providing evidence beyond personal opinion to support proposed solutions
• P.L.O. #14:  Formulate academic/career plan contingencies based upon accurate self-assessment of abilities, achievement, motivation, and work habits, as well as the skills sets desired by employers who typically hire or selection people with psychology backgrounds
• P.L.O. #15:  Create and continuously update a curriculum vitae or resume