Psychology, B.A.

A student smiling across the table at someone.

Gain a better understanding of human behavior and the world around you.

With a psychology degree, you will learn about the biological bases of behavior, the nature of personality, how people think, how they express emotions, why people behave differently in groups, and the differences between normal and abnormal behavior. Our curriculum covers theory, research, and applied skills that help you challenge yourself to explore different perspectives and ideas in a supportive learning environment.

As a psychology major, you’ll develop critical-thinking, inquiry, and reasoning skills within a framework of knowledge and scientific methods. You’ll have the opportunity to learn neuroscience, social behavior, animal behavior, human development, applied counseling, behavior analysis, and more. Explore ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world as you acquire transferable skills for a variety of careers.

Employers are looking for people who are flexible, imaginative, and critical thinkers with strong interpersonal and communication skills. A psychology degree prepares you to meet the challenges in today’s workforce or continue on to graduate school.

Available Concentrations:  

Art Therapy Preparation
The Art Therapy Preparation Concentration prepares students for graduate programs in art therapy, requiring a bachelor’s degree for entry. It includes essential coursework and a portfolio showcasing diverse media. Graduates will meet all admission requirements for art therapy graduate programs.

Counseling/Clinical Psychology
The Counseling/Clinical Psychology Concentration equips students with a strong foundation in applying psychological science in clinical settings, focusing on diverse populations. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention, preparing students for licensing as mental health professionals and advanced graduate work in clinical psychology or related fields.

Forensic Psychology
The Forensic Psychology Concentration examines the intersection of psychology and the legal system, equipping students with research and critical thinking skills for careers in criminal justice, such as forensic mental health counseling and criminal investigations. This track provides a strong foundation for advanced studies in forensic psychology, combining a comprehensive curriculum with practical experience.

Program Highlights

  • On campus, online, or remote synchronous learning
  • 1-on-1 skills based courses are kept small
  • Career ready upon graduation
  • Opportunities for research and internships

Explore your opportunities with a psychology degree.

Gain the knowledge and skills that will prepare you for what’s ahead.

Expand your understanding of how you see the world

  • Psychology student smiling doing homework

    Small class sizes

    One-on-one skills base courses are kept small to give you the personalized faculty attention you need. Small groups help keep you focused and give you the opportunity to discover and learn in a safe learning space.

  • A student being handed a certificate in a classroom setting.

    Career preparation

    Prepare for any career path working with others. A psychology degree will help you develop a better understanding of what motivates behavior, gain the skills that will help you communicate more effectively, and learn how to apply psychological insights for the betterment of society.

  • Psychology student presenting honors project

    Hands-on experience

    As a psychology major at Westfield State University, you can participate in research projects, gain valuable experience as a teaching assistant, or get an internship that will expand your education and prepare you for your career.

Program Details

Program Mission

The Department of Psychology prepares students to either continue their education in graduate school or immediately enter the workforce. Career options for the psychology major abound. Employers are looking for people who are flexible, imaginative, and good people handlers and can think critically about concepts and society. Psychology students are prepared to succeed in any career path that involves people—as clients, co-workers, employees, and bosses.

Learning Outcomes

1.1 Describe key concepts, principles, and overarching themes in psychology 
1.2 Develop a working knowledge of psychology’s content domains 
1.3 Describe applications of psychology 

2.1 Use scientific reasoning to interpret psychological phenomena 
2.2 Demonstrate psychology information literacy 
2.3 Engage in innovation and integrative thinking and problem-solving 
2.4 Interpret, design, and conduct basic psychological research 
2.5 Incorporate sociocultural factors in scientific inquiry 

3.1 Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science and practice 
3.2 Build and enhance interpersonal relationships 
3.3 Adopt values that build community at local, national, and global levels 

4.1 Demonstrate effective writing for different purposes 
4.2 Exhibit effective presentation skills for different purposes 
4.3 Interact effectively with others 

5.1 Apply psychological content and skills to career goals 
5.2 Exhibit self-efficacy and self-regulation
5.3 Refine project-management skills 
5.4 Enhance teamwork capacity 
5.5 Develop meaningful professional direction for life after graduation 

My professors in the psychology department are helping me figure out my career path. They’ve given me so many options and shown me different pathways, and I’m grateful that I’ve had them.

Student smiling wearing a WSU shirt at the campus globe.

Stephanie Block, '25

What can you do with a psychology degree?

A psychology degree is very versatile. Studying the mind and human behavior prepares you for a variety of career opportunities, including:

  • Psychologist
  • Social worker
  • Human resource specialist
  • Advertising
  • Public relations
  • Psychotherapist
  • Counselor
  • Sales
  • Communications
Two people conversing in a therapeutic setting while one takes notes.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Requirements for Psychology Majors

Psychology majors must complete a minimum of 21 credits in the Department at Westfield State University.

Required Courses - 12 Credits

Content Courses - 18 Credits

Select the number of courses indicated below from each of the 4 categories.

Capstone Experience - 3 Credits

Pre-requisites: All capstone experiences (CE) require the student to be a senior Psychology major. Some CEs may have additional pre-requisites. Choose one of the following options:

Electives in Psychology - 6 credits

Students must take two 200- or 300-level psychology courses with advisement.

Department Assessment Post-Test

Lab Science - 4 Credits

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get big school features with small school advantages.  

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    internship opportunities

Talented and dedicated faculty.

Our faculty share a commitment to scientific inquiry and a passion to provide a learning environment that explores diverse viewpoints. With expertise in disciplines including neuroscience, social behavior, animal behavior, human development, applied counseling, behavior analysis, and more, our faculty challenge you to explore different perspectives and ideas as you develop sound critical-thinking skills.

Psychology faculty member in classroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Psychology, B.A.