Chair: Carl E. McFarland, Jr.
Vice Chair and Director of Undergraduate Studies: Edwin W. Cook III
Faculty: Amthor, Ball, Baucum, Biasini, Blanton, Cox, Hagan, Klapow, Lorden, Milby, Mun, C. Ramey, Randich, Schwebel, Sloane, Taub, Tucker, Vuchinich, Wallander, Walley, Weller, Windle, Wiesner, Wright
Secondary and Adjunct Appointments: Beaton, Beidleman, Fleece, Graham, G. Jackson, S. Jackson, S. Ramey, Stewart

The curriculum in psychology provides a flexible program for the psychology major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree. Alternatively, students can earn a minor in psychology or take advantage of the numerous course offerings that are open to all students. The department provides a variety of experiences to give students an understanding of the basic principles and mechanisms of behavior. The scientific method is emphasized throughout the curriculum. Students with a major or minor in psychology are encouraged to obtain first-hand experience with both the creation of new knowledge (research) or the application of that knowledge in community and treatment settings. There are many opportunities for students to gain firsthand research experience by working with individual faculty members in a variety of laboratory, clinical, and field research settings. In addition, numerous community and treatment facilities provide settings for students to observe and participate in the application of psychological principles to the solution of individual and social problems.

In addition to providing a major field of study as part of a liberal arts and science education, the B.S. degree in psychology prepares students for graduate study in psychology. The degree also provides a strong intellectual foundation for a variety of careers in areas such as teaching, counseling, social work, human factors engineering, community planning, sales, management, personnel administration, ministry, law, politics, and various health professions including psychiatry, nursing, medicine, optometry, public health, and physical and occupational therapy. Consult the department’s undergraduate advisor or the Director of Undergraduate Studies for counseling on preparation for particular careers (205-934-3850).

Psychology is an evolving discipline, and after a period of time the material taught in a psychology course will no longer be current. For this reason, the Department of Psychology reserves the right to deny credit toward its major and minors for courses completed more than 12 years prior to graduation.

Major: Psychology

Minor: Psychology

Minor: Cognitive Science

Graduate Program

Course Descriptions: Psychology (PY)