Psychology is distinctive in that it equips its graduates with an extremely rich and diverse portfolio while providing a variety of forms of expertise which can prepare psychology graduates to undertake many different types of work. For example, specific skills include:
The B.A. in Psychology is a liberal arts major that provides broad exposure to the history, theories, research methods and practical applications of contemporary psychology. The B.A.’s relative flexibility lets you pursue courses both within and beyond the discipline. The B.A. requires a foreign language and a capstone experience such as an advanced seminar, independent research or an applied internship.
The B.S. in Psychology is more specialized with an added emphasis in mental health or developmental psychology. For example, for the B.S. in Psychology–Mental Health Option, students take specialized courses in Community Mental Health and Techniques of Psychotherapy, and complete a practicum in a mental health setting. For the B.S. in Psychology–Developmental Option, students take specialized courses focusing on developmental issues across the lifespan such as Prenatal and Infant Development, Adolescent Psychology and Adulthood and Aging. In addition, students complete an internship in an applied setting. There is no foreign language requirement for the B.S.
Most graduate programs are looking for applicants with strong academic standing who possess a wide range of personal characteristics, acquired skills and intellectual abilities. Specifically, the important characteristics are:
To pursue a graduate degree, students should make a concerted effort to work closely with a faculty member, develop these specific skills and abilities (e.g., learn SPSS, take public speaking and writing courses), conduct their own independent research, and/or complete an undergraduate practicum.
The answer to this question depends on your career goals. There are several career options for psychologists, including clinical (therapist of some sort), applied (industrial/organizational) and experimental. Of course, some of our majors continue their education in other areas (see above). If you are interested in furthering your education in psychology but are not interested in working in a clinical setting you should look for an experimental or applied graduate program.