Department of Psychology

Chair: Kelly A. Charlton

Faculty: Ashley Allen¹, William Collier, Rachel Morrison, Abby Nance, Shilpa Pai Regan, Brian Smith, Erik Tracy

¹Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

People throughout history have been intrigued by the question, “What is human nature?” Psychology’s approach to this topic is aimed at understanding basic patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior. It uses a variety of scientific methods, including interviews, case studies, field observations, neurophysiological recordings, and controlled experimentation. Psychology’s fund of knowledge has grown very rapidly over the past century. We now have a much clearer understanding of how people learn, how childhood experiences affect adult personality, how people influence one another during normal social relations, how to treat emotional and behavioral problems, how the brain’s biochemistry influences behavior, and many other significant topics.

The Department’s courses strive to blend general conclusions with practical application. Many topics are presented through role playing, discussions promoting personal involvement, and other experiential techniques. In addition to teaching established knowledge, the Department attempts to convey the excitement, controversy, and spirit of exploration that pervade the field of psychology today.

The Department offers a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Minor in Psychology.

These avenues of study prepare students for a variety of occupational paths. Many graduates build careers in human services, administration, entrepreneurship, and other fields of practical endeavor. Others enter graduate school and pursue careers as professional psychologists.

Programs

Major

Psychology, B.S.

Minor

Psychology, Minor

Courses

Psychology

Special Topics in Psychology