Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Faculty: Professors Tietz and Associate Professor Gilchrist (coordinator)

The baccalaureate degree in Psychology is designed to enable students to develop a well-rounded understanding of psychology in general as well as to have a deeper understanding in a few select areas. In order to provide greater breadth and depth across the many areas of psychology, students are required to take at least one course from each of the following domains: Diversity, Biological, Cognitive, Personality/Psychological Perspectives on Mental Health, Social, Developmental, and Applied. These domains were chosen in order to provide students with: a) exposure to the foundations of psychology; then b) more in-depth study in specific areas; then finally c) an understanding of how psychology can be applied.

Courses in this major provide students with the tools to become critical thinkers, which will allow them to better evaluate sources of information and the appropriateness of conclusions based on the methods used to collect data. General Psychology introduces major psychological perspectives and an overview of essential psychological concepts. In Research Methods, students conduct a research project and acquire the skills to analyze data. The Senior Capstone course is the culmination of the students’ work in the major and allows them to complete a major project (i.e., research project or practicum) under the direction of a psychology faculty member.

Students may choose to pursue a B.A. or a B.S. in Psychology. The B.S. degree emphasizes more courses in science and math, whereas the B.A. degree emphasizes more courses in the humanities and social sciences, including two semesters of foreign language. Both degrees prepare a student for direct entry into the workforce or graduate school.

Regardless of whether one pursues a B.A. or B.S., experiential learning is a fundamental component of the psychology major. In various classes, students participate in service learning, active learning demonstrations, research projects, or field trips; they may also enroll in Opportunities in Undergraduate Research or Independent Study. Courses in the major also incorporate the threads of women’s leadership, social responsibility, and global awareness. Cottey’s small class sizes provide for intensive faculty mentoring both inside and outside the classroom, and the psychology department’s system of course rotation ensures that majors have the variety of offerings necessary both to fulfill degree requirements and to pursue individual interests.

The psychology department offers a wide array of courses designed to meet a number of learning outcomes recommended by the American Psychological Association.

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology Program Goals

Enriches Their Knowledge
A Cottey Psychology student demonstrates a knowledge base in psychology and professional development.

Thinks Critically
A Cottey Psychology student demonstrates scientific inquiry and critical thinking in their study of psychology.

Communicates Effectively
A Cottey Psychology student demonstrates effective communication, including adherence to APA standards.

Acts Responsibly
A Cottey Psychology student demonstrates ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world.

Baccalaureate students pursuing another area of study who also wish to pursue a minor in Psychology can find course requirements on page 70.