Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Psychology] From Indiana University Northwest

A Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology curriculum enables students to 1) think scientifically about behavior and mental processes, 2) appreciate and respect individual differences, and 3) pursue a variety of post-baccalaureate alternatives, including enrollment in graduate or professional school or employment in social service agencies, business, and industry.

Coursework aims to teach students to evaluate research methods, research designs, and statistics; to distinguish theories and findings based on evidence from those without such support; to speak and write effectively about psychology; and to understand how the study of psychology helps individuals make their community a better place.

Both the B.A. and B.S. degrees in psychology provide students with a rigorous general background in psychology that prepares students for entry into psychology graduate programs. The B.S. degree is designed for students who wish to prepare for health-related professional graduate programs such as medicine, dentistry or physical therapy. The more extensive requirements in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics have been selected to optimize the student's preparation for these health-related graduate programs.

Program Highlights The department offers a wide variety of courses in all areas of psychology. Historically, students completing these courses have done exceedingly well on national achievement tests. Students are able to engage in collaborative or independent study with faculty members. Over the past five years, dozens of students have taken advantage of this opportunity. Many have presented their research at student and professional meetings and some have won student research competitions.

B.A. and B.S. degree recipients find employment in social service agencies, personnel, sales, and various capacities in many different organizations. A career as a psychologist requires graduate training, at least at the master's level. Entry to doctoral programs is highly competitve, but the doctoral degree provides many possibilities for careers in service, research, and/or teaching. Some psychology students also go on to medical school.