Psychology
BA

Psychology is the scientific exploration of human behavior. Our curriculum offers a broad introduction to this dynamic and diverse field, with an emphasis on the understanding and design of research. The study of human behavior can prepare you for many different careers, from business to education and the social sciences.

You'll also investigate psychology's subfields through courses that consider:

our biological heritage: physiological psychology, perception
basic human functioning: cognition, learning, personality, social
applied fields: counseling, behavior modification, organizational psychology, community psychology

You'll work with faculty who:

study the theoretical, such as hemispheric specialization within the brain, and semantic processing of memory
conduct applied research, such as the control of obesity, chronic pain, and stress
are leaders in the mental health community and bring their expertise to the classroom

Psychology graduates work in fields such as human resources, software and product development, and communications. Further education will open paths toward research and clinical practice.

For the BA in psychology, you'll complete at least 34 credit hours in courses related to your major, and 120 credits overall.

If you are interested in a career in counseling, you can take the 3-course counseling sequence, which introduces the applied aspects of psychology.

If you are interested in research and considering graduate study in psychology, you'll have the opportunity to pursue honors research or independent study.

Enrollment in the 4+1 Teacher Preparation program allows undergraduate students to begin the education coursework towards a master’s degree in teaching (MAT) as early as the sophomore year. Half of the degree is completed as an undergraduate, reducing the time and costs of earning a graduate degree.

Student success

Psychology student wins spot in NSF's REU program

Naomi Mwangi '25 will study Mind, Brain, Body, and Behavior at Emory University in Atlanta

Graduate School Placements

Bentley College
Lesley University
North Carolina State University
UMass Law
UMass Dartmouth

Career Placements

ABA Intervention Tanja Haas (Germany)
American Institutes for Research
Beacon ABA Services
Behavioral Health Network, Inc.
Center for Life Management
Comprehensive Mental Health Systems
Northeast Behavioral Associates
Southeastern Counseling Associates

UMassD's undergraduate experiences

Honors College

Take advanced courses, pursue research, and be part of a community of scholars.

Study Abroad

Earn academic credits and gain a global perspective on your field.

Bhen with his art students at Talibon Elementary School in Bohol, Philippines.

Undergraduate Research

Faculty work with students on cutting-edge research projects.

Student studying at Claire T. Carney Library

University Studies

Gain the benefit of a broad university education to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Best Colleges US News Psychology Programs 2024

UMassD advantages

100% of psychology majors in the class of 2022 were either employed or enrolled in further studies within six months of graduation. At UMass Dartmouth, psychology majors are eligible for accelerated 4+1 master's degrees in teaching or psychology research.

Rankings

#234 Best Undergraduate Psychology Programs in the U.S. - U.S. News & World Report stat-278a Keywords: Academics, CAS, Distinction, Undergraduate,
#10 Best Public Undergraduate Psychology Programs in New England - U.S. News & World Report stat-279a Keywords: Academics, CAS, Distinction, Undergraduate,

Expand your opportunities

BA/MA Program: Our BA/MA fast-track program enables qualified students to complete both the BA and the MA in Research Psychology, in 5 rather than 6 years.
The psychology department offers a graduate program leading to an MA in Psychology, with options in clinical psychology, research psychology, and applied behavior analysis.
Behavior Analyst Certificate Program: We also offer a 2 year post-master's program: the Behavior Analyst Certificate Program. Course content is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® and meets the requirement to sit for the BACB® exam.