Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) at the University of the Incarnate Word prepares students for advanced training and future careers as psychologists and other behavioral scientists.
Why Psychology?
Reasoning, research, data management, communication, critical thinking, analysis – these are a few of the skills a psychology major will learn through their degree program. Additionally, students gain an understanding of the many influences on behavior and development – all of which give students insight into how people, animals, and systems work. Such a skillset supports careers in a wide variety of industries and further study in psychology, medicine and health professions, law and education. UIW Psychology includes courses in service learning and internship relationships with more than 40 organizations, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and helping prepare them professionally.
Psychology Curriculum
The B.A. in Psychology is a 120-hour degree program that is consistent with current national standards and includes a service-learning component. Psychology majors use scientific methods of inquiry to address research questions, and to promote social justice. Through the completion of this program and participation in additional opportunities afforded to Psychology students at UIW, graduates will have a variety of options for careers or postgraduate pursuits. The current curriculum requires a set of core courses in Psychology and selection of one of two emphases, General (which requires a minor) or Addiction Prevention and Community Psychology. The major is designed to allow the addition of a second major (e.g., Biology, Political Science, etc.) or courses that further prepare the student for a specific career goal.
- Goal 1: Develop a knowledge base in psychology.
- Goal 2: Develop skills in scientific inquiry and critical thinking.
- Goal 3: Develop a sense of ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world.
- Goal 4: Develop skills in professional communication.
- Goal 5: Develop a professional identity and skills.
Instruction focuses on scientific methods of inquiry to test theory and promote evidence-based application and practice with a consideration of social justice. Students pursuing the Psychology major develop competence in their primary area of interest through advanced courses in the major, can complete an internship, and/or conduct research.
Students can choose from two concentrations:
The concentration in General Psychology offers a broad range of study within the discipline. In addition to the required core courses, students in this concentration select a course in Development Psychology, which includes such classes as Child Adolescent Psychology, Lifespan Development, and Adult Development and Aging. They must also select a course in Social Influence, which includes topics such as Social Psychology, Experiential Cross-Cultural and Multicultural Psychology. Students take two 4000-level courses and three electives in PSYC to complete the concentration.
The concentration in Addiction Prevention and Community Psychology offers deep study into the biopsychosocial influences on addiction and both environmental interventions and treatment. Class options include courses in systemic influences on drug use, prevention and other interventions, internship in a rehabilitation program, and a course in human development and course in Advanced Statistics or Psychometrics (measuring behavior and mental processes).
Research in Psychology
Psychology students have opportunities to take part in Research Continuation courses. These one-hour courses introduce students to research that faculty members are conducting and invite them to take part in lab experiences or join lab teams. Students gain valuable hands-on research under the mentorship of their faculty. Psychology majors conducting research can obtain department funding to present their research at academic conferences.
Careers in Psychology
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment for psychology jobs is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade. Students who take part in internships, research or practice-oriented work add important experience to their undergraduate studies, helping to broaden opportunities. Those with bachelor's degrees may find positions in rehabilitation centers, research institutions, social services or in businesses. The Psychology degree program also prepares students to pursue further study in graduate school, medical school, law school, counselor education and more.