Psychology is one of the most popular and versatile majors. The major emphasizes a strong background in the natural sciences (e.g., mathematics, chemistry, biology, statistics, human physiology), writing, and research.

Electives enable students to obtain a second major or minor in a field of interest or take pre-professional courses and graduate with:

  1. A combination of courses and experiences to qualify for semiprofessional jobs in psychological settings or closely-related fields (e.g., addictions counseling);
  2. A combination of courses providing a background for careers outside of psychology (e.g., human resources);
  3. Pre-professional courses for potential admittance into professional training programs (e.g., medicine, occupational therapy, veterinary medicine); and/or
  4. A complement of courses for potential admittance into psychology graduate school programs. Advanced degrees are often a prerequisite for professional careers in psychology.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of the degree, students will:

  1. Attain a solid foundation in the natural sciences.
  2. Demonstrate strong analytical, mathematical, and statistical skills.
  3. Identify, describe, and demonstrate knowledge of the major branches of psychology.
  4. Describe, evaluate, and apply methods for conducting research and analyzing data in psychology.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate material from psychology.
  6. Demonstrate the ability to write and communicate effectively on topics in psychology.
  7. Appraise the diversity, complexity, and intersectionality of human experience.
  8. Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science and practice.
  9. Engage in professional development and lifelong learning.

Accelerated Program

The major in Psychology, General Psychology concentration, includes an accelerated program option for students to graduate on a faster schedule. Accelerated Programs typically include 15-16 credits each fall and spring semester for three years, plus 6-9 credits over two to three summer sessions. Students who enter CSU with prior credit (AP, IB, transfer, etc.) may use applicable courses to further accelerate their graduation. Visit the Office of the Provost website for additional information about Accelerated Programs.

Potential Occupations

A B.S. degree in Psychology prepares students for a variety of career opportunities. Because of the strong science orientation, students develop a number of important skills required in a broad range of occupations. Skills such as written and oral communication, cooperation, analytical and critical thinking, and a background in the sciences demonstrate versatility and an ability to pursue a variety of career paths. Participating in paid or volunteer work, internships, research, study abroad, and experiential education opportunities are highly recommended to increase students' employment opportunities.

Possible career opportunities include, but are not limited to: addictions counselor, human services worker, case worker, mental health services worker, probation officer, community relations officer, educator, program developer/administrator, human resources administrator, labor relations representative, compensation and benefits administrator, public relations specialist/special events administrator, advertising producer/writer, account services representative, media representative, market researcher, government program administrator, business manager, buying agent, sales representative, real estate broker, industrial/organizational consultant, psychometrician, neuropsychologist (with advanced degree), cognitive neuroscientist (with advanced degree), engineering psychologist (with advanced degree), clinical psychologist (with advance degree), family therapist (with advanced degree), lawyer (with advanced degree), occupational therapist (with advanced degree), veterinarian (with advanced degree) or physician (with advanced degree).

Concentrations