Psychology

If understanding human thought and behavior is at the heart of a liberal arts education, the study of psychology is at the heart of that process. For those interested in the study of human thought, emotion, and behavior, a psychology major is ideal.

The Psychology major at Cal Lutheran is designed to expose students to the theoretical and empirical foundations of the discipline as well as the applications of established principles to behavior change. As a result of majoring in Psychology, you’ll be prepared for graduate work in the discipline as well as to apply the concepts and skills you’ll acquire in a variety of career settings.

Combine theory and observation

Our program is designed to expose you to the theoretical and empirical foundations of psychology, as well as the applications of established principles to behavior change. You will apply the major research methods used in psychology to answer questions and be able to interpret and evaluate the results and conclusions derived through these methods. Our faculty encourages students to become actively engaged in the learning process.

The four junior/senior capstone courses (Clinical Practicum, Applied Psychology, Introduction to Counseling & Psychotherapy and Research Practicum) involve students directly in the mental health field as they integrate and apply theory and concepts, and address ethical and practical concerns.

Psi Chi honor society

Qualified students may join the Cal Lutheran chapter of Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology. Each year, several students receive support to present the findings of their research projects at undergraduate, regional, and even national conferences.

Opportunities for hands-on research

As a psychology student, you are asked as part of your course requirements to participate in a number of research studies. Doing this will provide you an opportunity to observe the empirical process of psychological inquiry from the inside. Your participation will also assist professors and other student researchers in forwarding the understanding of human behavior and experience – the main goal of psychology as a science!

Choose between a B.A. or B.S. degree

Students targeting work in community service centers, social work, clinics and business usually pursue the bachelor of arts degree in psychology. Those considering careers in the clinical and research arena typically seek the bachelor of science in psychology degree.

Emphasis Areas

• Behavioral/Clinical Applications
• Business/Organizational Applications
• Family and Child Development
• Health and Wellness Applications
• Law and Criminal Behavior Applications
• Psychobiology
• Sports Psychology Applications

Programs

Offered as a major (BA or BS) and a minor.

Popular Minor Pairings

• Biology
• Financial Planning
• Gender and Women’s Studies
• Legal Studies
• Philosophy
• Public Health
• Sociology
• Theology and Christian Leadership