Psychology, BS

Western Washington University - International Study Center (StudyGroup)

Psychology’s attempt to understand the human condition takes many approaches. Some psychologists study brain chemistry and its relation to behavior, while others study the behavior of individuals in groups. Still others are engaged in providing counseling or psychotherapy to people who are mentally ill or who are having difficulty in coping with the demands of life. With a faculty of more than 40 people, the department offers a program of study that provides a solid foundation in the general concepts and methods of psychology, as well as courses and programs for students in many of the more specialized areas. The core program in general psychology is designed to ensure that all students majoring in psychology will develop a sound basic preparation for advanced study, as well as have a solid grounding in psychological research and the real-world applications of research findings in the field. The program is designed to allow students flexibility in selecting courses with the assistance of their advisor. However, the design of the major ensures that each psychology major has direct experience with research methodology, from the theoretical underpinnings through research design, implementation and data analysis, and finally to a manuscript of the entire research project.