Program Overview

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Department of Psychology

The Department of Psychology at Western Michigan University offers a versatile program that gives students options for their future, whether they want to continue learning or apply their knowledge to another industry. Students can customize their degree to their own interests and take courses in person or online.

Bachelor’s in Psychology

The Bachelor’s in Psychology program provides experience-driven learning and clinical skills in general psychology, child psychology, and experimental and applied behavior analysis. The program has a natural-science orientation that emphasizes empirical evidence in relation to child development, abnormal behavior, workplace psychology, autism, forensic psychology, global sustainability, education, gerontology, neuroscience, and more.

Career Paths

Students who have graduated with a bachelor's in psychology from WMU have gone on to build professional careers as:

• Behavior analysts
• Psychologists
• Teachers
• Behavior Technicians
• Talent Acquisition Specialists

The organizations they work for include:

• Centria Healthcare
• Great Lakes Center for Autism and Treatment Research
• Michigan House of Representatives
• Oxford Recovery Center
• Total Spectrum
• Zoetis

Program Details

The program includes a field study or lab, and students have many opportunities to help with research projects by participating as a research assistant or subject. The department has an international reputation and offers many opportunities for experience-driven learning.

Scholarships

There are a variety of scholarships for psychology students based on academics and financial need.

Other Programs of Interest

Other programs of interest include:

• Child and family development
• Criminal justice studies
• Music therapy
• Social work

What Can I Do with a B.S. in Psychology from Western?

Prepare yourself for a variety of career paths with your undergraduate degree in psychology and well-planned use of electives. The program provides a strong foundation for further education or a career in psychology.

Experience Your Career in Psychology

Explore research, check out the psychology clinic, and discover the Kalamazoo Autism Center. The department offers many opportunities for experience-driven learning and clinical skills.

What Will I Learn in Psychology?

As a psychology major, you will gain experience-driven learning and clinical skills in general psychology, child psychology, and experimental and applied behavior analysis. The program has a natural-science orientation that emphasizes empirical evidence in relation to child development, abnormal behavior, workplace psychology, autism, forensic psychology, global sustainability, education, gerontology, neuroscience, and more.

Graduate Programs

The department also offers graduate programs in:

• Behavior Analysis
  • Master of Arts
  • Doctor of Philosophy
• Clinical Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Behavior Management
  • Master of Arts
  • Doctor of Philosophy

These programs provide advanced training and education in psychology, preparing students for careers in research, academia, and practice.

Research Areas

The department has a strong research focus, with faculty and students working on projects in various areas, including:

• Child development
• Abnormal behavior
• Workplace psychology
• Autism
• Forensic psychology
• Global sustainability
• Education
• Gerontology
• Neuroscience

These research areas provide students with opportunities to engage in experience-driven learning and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in psychology.

Student Resources

The department offers many resources to support student success, including:

• Advising
• Research opportunities
• Clinical experiences
• Scholarships
• Career counseling

These resources help students navigate their academic and professional careers, providing a strong foundation for success in psychology.

Faculty and Staff

The department has a diverse and experienced faculty and staff, with expertise in various areas of psychology. The faculty are committed to teaching, research, and service, providing students with a high-quality education and mentorship.

Facilities and Resources

The department has access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including:

• Research laboratories
• Clinical facilities
• Library and online resources
• Technology and equipment

These facilities and resources provide students with the tools and support they need to succeed in their academic and professional careers.

Accreditation

The department is accredited by the relevant accrediting agencies, ensuring that the programs meet the highest standards of quality and excellence.

Conclusion

The Department of Psychology at Western Michigan University offers a versatile and comprehensive program that provides students with a strong foundation in psychology. With a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, research opportunities, and clinical experiences, the department prepares students for careers in psychology and related fields. The faculty and staff are committed to teaching, research, and service, providing students with a high-quality education and mentorship.