Psychology

About the psychology major

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The goals of psychology are to describe, explain, predict, and change behavior (observable actions) and mental processes (thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and memories) through research and applied knowledge. Overall, the goal of psychology is to improve the quality of life. Specialities of IUPUI psychology faculty include psychobiology of addictions, health psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, severe mental illness, stereotyping, and prejudice.

Skills and abilities this major develops: communication skills, critical thinking, understanding and appreciation of ethics and diversity, investigative and quantitative skills, and scientific methodology.

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IUPUI’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Undergraduate research

Undergraduate research experiences help you develop important problem-solving skills and experience for your future career.

Professional work experience

Grow your skills through internships or part-time jobs. Join the School of Science Career and Internship site in Canvas for additional information and resources.

Center for Service and Learning

The IUPUI Center for Service and Learning has many service-oriented programs that allow you to work with and impact your community in endless ways.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Abnormal psychology
  • Ethics and diversity
  • Introduction to counseling
  • Life span development
  • Research methods in psychology
  • Social psychology

Possible careers

  • ABA therapist
  • Addictions counselor
  • Behavior analyst
  • HR administrator
  • Life skills specialist
  • Marriage and family therapist*
  • Resource coordinator/manager

*This career requires additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • Behavioral Analysis Center for Autism
  • Community Health Network
  • Diverse Talent Strategies
  • Eli Lilly and Company
  • First Financial Bank
  • IU Health
Get your interest code

Where to get more information

Department of Psychology

American Psychological Association

psychology.org

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Cluster

This major belongs to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster. The STEM cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in the sciences, technology, engineering, informatics, and computing. The STEM cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools.

Learn about the STEM cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

Schedule an appointment