So You Want to be a Psychologist

This program will investigate the theories and practices psychologists use to enhance students' understanding of counseling, social services, and the science of psychology. We will cover history and systems of psychology and read original-source literature from major divisions of the field, including both classic and contemporary journal articles and books by well-known psychologists. Students will explore careers in psychology and the academic preparations necessary for these career choices. We will cover the typical activities of psychologists who work in academia, schools, counseling, and clinical settings, social work agencies, and applied-research settings.

Among our studies will be ethical quandaries in psychology, including the ethics of human and animal experimentation. Library research skills, in particular the use of PsycINFO, will be emphasized. You'll gain expertise in the technical writing style of the American Psychological Association (APA). The class format will include lectures, guest speakers, workshops, discussions, films, and a required field trip.

There's no better way to explore the range of activities and topics that psychology offers—and to learn about cutting-edge research in the field—than to attend and participate in a conference of psychology professionals and students. To that end, students will attend the annual conference of the Western Psychological Association (WPA). This year's conference will take place April 27-30, 2022 in Riverside, California.

There is an option for advanced work in empirical research in psychology. Preparation for this option includes coursework in statistics and research methods. Students who are interested in this option should contact the faculty.