Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior and the mind. According to the American Psychological Association, "Psychology is a diverse discipline, grounded in science, but with nearly boundless applications in everyday life. Some psychologists do basic research, developing theories and testing them through careful honed research methods involving observation, experimentation and analysis. Other psychologists apply the discipline's scientific knowledge to help people, organizations and communities function better."

Baruch faculty have particular strengths in industrial-organizational, clinical, social, cognitive neuroscience, and developmental psychology. The psychology major is the most popular course of study among undergraduate students nationwide. Many psychology majors ultimately establish careers outside the field of psychology, but will do so in areas that rely upon an understanding of human thought and behavior. Psychology is an appropriate major for those who plan to work, for example, in business, law, the health care professions, education, public affairs, nonprofit agencies, and computer science.

To prepare for a career in psychology or an allied profession, such as social work or counseling, students must earn a master's or doctoral degree. Graduate programs in psychology are selective and take into consideration a student's academic record, letters of recommendation, field and research experience, and, in most cases, GRE scores. A number of American Psychological Association publications, including the APA Guide to Graduate Study in Psychology, are useful when making academic and career plans.

Baruch offers a 25-credit BA major in Psychology. This includes one required course in research methods, 12 credits of foundation courses, and 9 credits of electives.

You are required to meet with a faculty advisor in psychology to declare a major. The faculty advisor will discuss with you the foundations and elective courses that best meet your career goals. Students who wish to develop their research skills should consider pursuing an independent study or honors thesis project. It is also recommended that students take courses in other departments that focus on the scientific method, logic, communication skills, and the understanding of cultural and social systems.

Program Learning Goals

Upon completion of a major in Psychology, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the major theories and methodological approaches associated with at least 4 of the following 6 fundamental subareas of psychology (i.e., abnormal, developmental, social, personality, cognitive, physiological).
        a.  Define and apply the major theories and methodological approaches associated with these subareas of psychology.
        b.  Compare and contrast in written and/or oral form the major theories and methodological approaches within and across these subareas of psychology.

2. Design and interpret the results of a psychology study.
        a.  Explain statistical methods of organizing and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data.
        b.  Conduct statistical analyses and accurately interpret the findings.
        c.  Conduct and apply psychological research in a manner consistent with ethical standards used in the field.

3. Demonstrate the ways in which psychology is affected by social and historical contexts.
        a.  Explain how issues of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual identity/orientation, culture, religion and other aspects of human diversity affect psychological processes.
        b.  Evaluate the historical development of the different theories of psychology and how the field has evolved over time.