The field of psychology covers a broad range of topics that are studied from a
diverse array of perspectives. The major at Occidental was recently revised for students matriculating in the Fall of 2010.
Official requirements for the major and updated course offerings can be found in the
COURSE CATALOG. [Students who matriculated prior to 2010 should consult past course catalogs for major requirements.]
After completing Introduction to Psychology (or the Advanced Placement (AP) Exam in Psychology with a score of 4 or 5),
students who declare the psychology major must complete 11 additional courses designed to provide breadth and depth in knowledge and skills.
Breadth is acquired through required "fundamentals" courses that expose students to the range of subdisciplines comprising the field of psychology
and that foster examinations of intra- and inter-disciplinary themes. Required courses in research methods and statistics provide the foundation
for understanding topics within psychology. All students must develop general research skills as part of the major, but advanced students -
particularly those wishing to pursue a career in psychology - have various opportunities to gain focused research experience (including
PSYC 395), including independent research projects (PSYC 497 & 499). Additionally, practicum (PSYC 398 & 498) provide students with
applied psychological experience in real-world settings.
Depth of understanding is acquired when students take additional "fundamentals" courses that related to particular area of psychology, as well as
advanced-level courses and special topic seminars (PSYC 490s).Finally, senior psychology majors must demonstrate
writing proficiency with a portfolio of written work from past courses (submitted in the Fall semester)
and knowledge by performing at a satisfactory level on the psychology comprehensive exam (taken in the Spring semester).
Students interested in the biological basis for psychology and related careers may select the Neuroscience Emphasis. This option allows students to
complete a specifc plan of study (instead of the general track) that integrates training in related scientific fields (i.e., biology, cognitive
science, & kinesiology), along with an empirical research project (PSYC 497).
