Division of Education, Human Development, and Social Sciences

Psychology

Psychology, B.A. (PSCBA)

Objectives and Outcomes

Knowledge, Skills, and Values Consistent with the Science and Application of Psychology

  1. Theory and Content of Psychology — students should show familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
  2. Research Methods in Psychology — students should understand and apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
  3. Critical Thinking Skills in Psychology — students should respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and, when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes.
  4. Applications of Psychology — students should understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
  5. Values in Psychology — students should be able to weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect other values that are the underpinnings of psychology as a discipline.

Knowledge, Skills, and Values Consistent with Liberal Arts Education that are Further Developed in Psychology

  1. Information and Technological Literacy — students should demonstrate information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes.
  2. Communication Skills — students should be able to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.
  3. Sociocultural and International Awareness — students should recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural and international diversity.
  4. Personal Development — students should develop insight into their own and others' behavior and mental processes and apply effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement.
  5. Career Planning and Development — students should emerge from the major with realistic ideas about how to implement their psychological knowledge, skills, and values in occupational pursuits in a variety of settings.

Note: The above objectives and outcomes are from the American Psychological Association's (APA) Undergraduate Psychology Major Learning Goals and Outcomes.

Contact:

Dr. Brad Pinter
Associate Professor of Psychology
Education, Human Development, and Social Sciences

Office: 129A Smith Building
Phone: 814-949-5507
Email: