Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

What Will I Learn in the Psychology Major?

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior, thought, and emotion in both humans and nonhumans. In University of Portland’s (UP) bachelor of arts (BA) in psychology degree program, you gain a deep understanding of psychological principles, social influences, theories, and research methods while exploring other areas of the field like developmental psychology, personality, neuroscience, cognition, and psychological disorders.

Our psychology major emphasizes the importance of human diversity, ethical reflection, and applying psychological knowledge to real-world issues. You will graduate with critical thinking, analytical, and interpersonal skills—all essential for success in both graduate studies and your professional life. And, as one of the most widely applicable degrees, the psychology program prepares you for careers in a variety of fields.

Psychology Courses

UP's psychology curriculum is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of human thought and behavior, from introductory courses in psychological science and research methods to specialized pathways that focus on the brain, mind, or behavior.

Your education will continue beyond the classroom as you apply what you learn to real-world settings, including internships that connect you with industry leaders and real-world psychology challenges. Internship placements also count for course credit.

The psychology degree program culminates in a senior capstone seminar, project, or thesis, where you synthesize your knowledge and demonstrate your expertise in an area of interest.

Degree Requirements

University Core

At UP, the Core Curriculum is central to your education, reflecting our Holy Cross tradition of educating the whole person. These courses encourage ethical decision-making, global awareness, and reflective learning. Through the Core, you engage with subjects that enrich your psychology major and provide a strong liberal arts foundation for a life of purpose and leadership.

The Core

Psychology Minor

Interested in psychology but planning to study a different program area? Pair your major with UP’s psychology minor to gain foundational knowledge in key psychological concepts that complement a variety of disciplines.

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More than a Degree

As a psychology major at UP, you have opportunities to engage in meaningful experiences that expand your knowledge and prepare you for future roles.

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Psi Chi Honor Society

Join Psi Chi, the national psychology honor society, to connect with a network of peers and professionals dedicated to advancing the field of psychological science.

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Undergraduate Research

Work side by side with faculty on undergraduate research projects that interest you while earning academic credit, gaining valuable hands-on experience, and building a strong foundation for graduate school or your career.

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Holy Cross Tradition

Guided by our Holy Cross tradition and value-centered approach, the psychology major at UP emphasizes the ethical application of knowledge and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

The UP Difference

Discover the advantages of a University of Portland education.

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Average Class Size in Psychology Courses

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Undergraduate Degree Programs

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Northwest Adventures with UP Outdoor Pursuits

The psychology professors are happy to engage with students and help us along in our education, giving us opportunities to be active in the discipline whether that’s research or internships or other ways to apply what we’re learning. My favorite class so far has been Professor Mark Pitzer’s Behavioral Neuroscience class. I loved his teaching style and how passionate he was, how engaged he was, and how discussion oriented it was even though it was a lecture-heavy course. I feel like I got a lot out of it.

Emma F. ’26, psychology major, education minor, Psi Chi Vice President, Honors Program, CAS student leadership council psychology representative

Careers and Outcomes

A bachelor’s degree in psychology equips you with the critical thinking, research, and interpersonal skills employers value. As a psychology professional, you can apply your knowledge of behavior, thought, and emotion to improve individual well-being, assess organizational practices, and address personal challenges.

Career Areas with a BA in Psychology

While some psychology careers require a graduate or doctoral degree, a BA in psychology lays a strong foundation for versatile entry-level roles in human services, business, health care, education, and more. This degree also provides the background needed to continue your education in graduate school.

Graduate Studies

Many graduates with a BA in psychology pursue advanced degrees in psychology, counseling, social work, or related disciplines. These students are eligible for roles that require higher levels of education, such as:

  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Cognitive and Perceptual Psychologist
  • Counseling Psychologist
  • Rehabilitation Psychologist
  • School Psychologist
  • Social Psychologist
  • Sports Psychologist

Review UP’s master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and certificate programs.

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Build a Career Across Industries

Whether you aspire to advance mental health education, understand human behavior, or contribute to the field through research, you can accomplish your goals and make a difference with University of Portland’s bachelor of arts in psychology degree program.

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