Program Overview

Bachelor of Science with Honors in Psychology

The Psychology program focuses on how the brain functions, and how we perceive, learn, and forget things. Students will gain an understanding of areas like perception and motivation, behavior, and cognitive development, with emphasis on the physical, biological, and mathematical sciences.

Why Study this Program?

The Honors Psychology program includes first-hand experience conducting research under the guidance of a faculty mentor. There are two phases to this experience: a research apprenticeship undertaken in the third year, and the thesis research conducted in the fourth year. Psychology is also offered as a BSc with Major.

Why Study a Bachelor of Science with Honors?

The Bachelor of Science with Honors is a degree program designed for students to receive in-depth training in a specific subject area and is suited for students drawn to scientific research. A research thesis project is embedded in each program, and students must maintain higher academic standards than those in a BSc Major degree. Students have the option to add a minor from the Faculty of Arts, Native Studies, Business, or Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences; however, doing so will reduce the amount of option courses. A double major is not available in the Honors program.

Possible Careers

• Addiction Counsellor
  • Career Development Professional
    • Child and Youth Care Worker
    • Court Trial Consultant
    • Crime Prevention Coordinator
    • Crisis Counsellor
    • Employment Counsellor
    • Group Home Coordinator
    • Mental Health Clinician
    • Parole or Probation Officer
    • Research Scientist

Program Requirements

Non-Direct Entry

This program does not allow admission directly from high school.

• Preprofessional Study Time: 2 years
• For 3rd year entry: Completion of 48 units and the following courses (or their equivalents):
  1. PSYCO 104
  2. PSYCO 105
• Admission Selection: Completion of 48 units and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Admission is contingent upon securing a research supervisor by June 15. Students planning to apply for admission should contact the Department of Psychology.

English Language Proficiency

The primary language of instruction is English. For more information on the English Language Proficiency policy, refer to the University of Alberta Calendar. Information on writing ELP examinations is also available.

Indigenous Applicants

The University of Alberta is committed to encouraging Indigenous students in their work towards a degree. Indigenous students have been under-represented in higher education in Canada, and the policy aims at increasing opportunity, with the goal of the Aboriginal student population being representative of the public served. For more information on Admission of Indigenous Students, refer to the University of Alberta Calendar.

Deadline

• Fall application:
  • Domestic: March 1, 2026
  • International: March 1, 2026

Tuition and Fees

Tuition will be evaluated based on the specific courses registered in. The cost calculator can give an estimate based on full-time for the program selected.

Scholarships and Financial Support

The Office of the Registrar administers over $52 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for undergraduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are also available for specific faculties and programs.