Psychology

At UCSC, psychology majors are exposed to basic achievements in the various subfields of psychology and are introduced to the nature and spirit of scientific inquiry in the field. Students are encouraged to carry out research in specialized laboratories or in the field. Psychology majors take courses in each of the following subfields in their upper-division work: Developmental, Cognitive, and Social.

Study and Research Opportunities

• Many of the department's faculty members participate in groundbreaking research in the psychology field. There are many opportunities for undergraduate research experience in the laboratories of active developmental, cognitive, and social psychology researchers.
• The Psychology Field Study Program is an academic internship program designed for majors. Students gain hands-on reflective experience imperative for graduate study, future careers, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of psychology.
• An intensive major concentration is available for students intending to pursue graduate studies in psychology.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Overall band score of 6.5 or higher*, includes IELTS Indicator Exam (through fall 2022)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test or 80 on the Internet-based test, includes TOEFL iBT Home Edition (fall 2021 only)
• SAT (March 2016 or later) Writing & Language Test: 31 or higher
• SAT (prior to March 2016) Writing Exam: 560 or higher
• ACT combined English-Writing or English Language Arts portion: 24 or higher
• AP English Language and Composition, or English Literature and Composition: 3, 4, or 5
• IB Standard Level examination in English: Literature, or Language and Literature: 6 or 7
• IB Higher Level examination in English: Literature, or Language and Literature: 5, 6, or 7
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 115 (through fall 2022)

• Academic research and teaching
• Clinical psychology 
• Community relations 
• Counseling 
• Education 
• Environmental psychology 
• Forensic psychology 
• Government research 
• Human resources 
• Law 
• Market research 
• Psychiatry 
• Social services 
• Vocational psychology

These are only samples of the field’s many possibilities.