Psychology
Department of Psychology
Administration
Chair: Wendy Birmingham
Department Information:
1082 KMBL
801-422-6357
psychology@byu.edu
Advisement Center:
1041 JFSB
801-422-3541
liberalarts@byu.edu
Admission to Degree Program
All undergraduate degree programs in the Department of Psychology are open enrollment.
The Discipline
Psychology is a traditional discipline in the liberal arts and sciences and is rooted in the Western intellectual tradition. Since its founding in the late nineteenth century, psychology has distinguished itself primarily as a science with a wide scope of interests. Many psychologists also provide treatment for a broad range of disorders, and others work to solve pressing social issues. The diverse world community of academic and professional psychologists is devoted to expanding our understanding of individual and collective behavior and applying that understanding toward improving the human condition.
The department joins students and faculty together to make a scientific and applied contribution to the discipline of psychology. Its faculty members and administrators are committed to an educational experience that excites learning and understanding in personal and collaborative settings. At the same time the department honors the restored gospel as vital for psychological theory, as a guide for professional conduct, and as a source of unique insight. Aware of the history of psychology and as active participants therein, faculty members hold students to high standards of individual and collective performance and understanding. Students are expected to respond to multiple styles of teaching and broad opportunities for engagement in research and application with serious and sustained interest and effort. In this way the department distinguishes itself as a community of scholarship, moral principle, and devotion to the elevation of humankind.
Career Opportunities
The psychology major is a gateway to professional employment and to advanced study in psychology. Psychologists engage in a variety of academic roles as teachers, researchers, and administrators and also provide counseling, clinical, and consulting services to individuals and organizations. Psychologists are employed by colleges and universities, public and private schools, clinics, and hospitals. They work in private practice and for corporations and government entities. The study of psychology has particular value for family life and for civic and cultural roles generally. The psychology major provides a well-informed perspective on human and organizational behavior in preparation for occupations in law enforcement, law, or business.
Most professional positions require a master's or doctoral degree, although a bachelor's degree may be sufficient to gain employment in mental health care, detention and probation services, auxiliary social work, personnel, or human resources. Further, the psychology major gives students a particularly strong background leading to graduate study in business, law, or medicine.
Graduation Requirements
To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:
The University Core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education.
At least 30 credit hours must be earned in residence on the BYU campus in Provo as an admitted day student
A minimum of 120 credit hours
A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office
Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.
Graduate Programs Available
This department also offers graduate degree programs. For more information, see Graduate Studies.
