Psychology is the science of behavior. Courses in this discipline convey the principles, methods, and theories that are necessary for a better understanding of human and animal behaviors. Students who choose this subject as their major are expected to fulfill certain requirements, but the program is structured to allow considerable flexibility. Students who choose this subject as their major are expected to fulfill certain requirements, but the program is structured to allow considerable flexibility. Studying psychology at WVU allows students to work toward either a BS or BA degree that allows them to seek classes and experiences that enable them to be prepared for careers that may be more applied or more research focused. Typically, individuals tailor their schedules according to the career paths they choose, and these decisions generally fall into three categories: pursuit of graduate studies, pursuit of a career applying principles of psychology to human problems, or pursuit of a career in a related field, such as medicine, law, education, or business.
Students who earn a degree in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences must complete the University requirements, the College requirements for their specific degree program, and their major requirements.
Honors Program
The Department of Psychology honors program is designed to provide special enrichment, attention, and recognition for exceptional psychology majors. Admission to the program requires completion of nine hours of psychology, a psychology GPA of 3.5, and an overall GPA of 3.4. Graduation with departmental honors in psychology requires the same GPAs and completion of an honors thesis (three to six hours of PSYC 498). Information about the program is available in the department's student records office or from the director of undergraduate training.
Minors
All students have the possibility of earning one or more minors; view a list of all available minors and their requirements here. Please note that students may not earn a minor in their major field.