Catalog

Psychology Major & Minor

Psychology is the science concerned with the human mind and how thoughts, impulses, and habits translate into manifest behavior. It goes beyond mental health and explores issues including emotions, productivity, development, perception, happiness, motivation, and creativity.

The psychology major at Southern Virginia offers students the opportunity to explore the “mystery” within these important areas. Because psychology is so diverse in its focus and research, it also prepares students for a wide variety of careers. It helps students develop universally useful skills such as communication, critical thinking, and a proficiency for analyzing data. So if you’re curious about why we do the things that we do and are ready for a rewarding career, consider studying psychology at Southern Virginia.

Learning Objectives

The Learning Objectives for the psychology major at Southern Virginia are aligned with the American Psychological Association’s (APA) “Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major.” Graduates of the psychology program are expected to demonstrate the following:

  1. Fundamental knowledge of psychological concepts and principles.
  2. Understanding of scientific reasoning and problem solving, including research methods.
  3. Familiarity with ethical standards and socially responsible behaviors.
  4. Effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
  5. Preparation for future employment and/or further education.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Alison Caldwell-Andrews

Major Requirements (36 credit hours)

Major Core (12 credit hours):

Biological Bases of Behavior (take 3, 9 credit hours):

Social Bases of Behavior (take 3, 9 credit hours):

Major Electives (take 2 of any other 300 or 400 level course, 6 credit hours):

Download the Psychology Major Checklist

Minor Requirements (15 credit hours)

Minor Core (6 credit hours):

Minor Electives (9 credit hours from among the following; 3 credits at most may be 200-level):

Download the Psychology Minor Checklist