BA in Psychology

William Paterson University's psychology program allows graduates to pursue a variety of jobs upon earning their bachelor's degree; it also prepares them to continue their education in a graduate field.

The psychology major is one of the most popular majors at William Paterson University. The major consists of 38 credits designed to expose the students to the breadth of psychology and includes: developmental psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, and physiological psychology. Our psychology faculty are dedicated teachers and distinguished scholars.

Admissions

Students can apply for the WPU at Mercer program for the fall or spring semesters. The deadline for applications for the term is June 1st, and for the spring term it's December 1st. Your application and supporting official transcripts/documents must be received by the deadlines above.

About the Psychology Department

Psychology is typically defined as the study of mind and behavior. This simple definition encompasses the complexity of psychology and includes the systematic study of thought, emotion, cognition, perception, learning, development, personality, interpersonal relationships at the biological, mental, and social level.

The Department of Psychology is situated within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, serving both undergraduate and graduate students. The department provides undergraduates with core and elective courses that introduce the theoretical, conceptual, methodological, empirical, and ethical foundation of psychology. The department expects that all students will demonstrate growth in knowledge and critical thinking, including substantial development of analytic, writing, and speaking skills. It is our hope and expectation that students will also acquire a foundation for lifelong learning and a good grasp on career and professional development issues in psychology and associated fields. The program offers relatively-small class sizes and individualized academic advisement. Moreover, the department’s mission is buttressed by a strong belief in the intrinsic value of advancing knowledge.

Opportunities with a Psychology Degree

Psychology provides a solid background for those interested in advanced study in such areas as social work, education, law, public administration, business, medicine, and theology. Within the field itself, career opportunities exist at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Here are some examples:

Bachelor's level:

  • Social Services, Health Care, Human Resources, Marketing or Market Research  

Master's level:

  • Social Worker (MSW), Mental Health Worker (e.g. alcohol/drug abuse, school, mental hospital, agencies), Organizational Consultant, Community College Instructor or Research Technician

 

Requirements of the Psychology Major

Major Requirements: 38 Credits

A. Prerequisites: 10 credits

PSY1100

General Psychology

3

Math1100 or 1300 or College Math

Contemporary Math or Statistics or other College Level Math

3

BIO1140 or 1200

Applied Anatomy and Physiology or Human Biology

4

Students majoring in psychology are required to earn no less than a grade of C- in any Psychology course.

B. Major Requirement: 38 credits

PSY2020

Experimental Psychology I: Applied Statistics

4

PSY2030

Experimental Psychology II: Laboratory

4

PSY2100

Developmental Psychology

3

PSY2200

Social Psychology

3

PSY2300

History and Systems of Psychology

3

PSY3500 or 3510

Theories of Personality or Abnormal Psychology

3

PSY3530

Physiological Psychology

3

PSY3540 or 3750

Learning or Cognitive Psychology

3

Any PSY

Three electives within Psychology

9

PSY4800

Seminar in Psychology

3


*Psychology electives will be offered on site and online on a rotating basis.

Tips for Transfers with A.A./A.S. Degrees with Psychology Majors at MCCC

Make sure you have the following MCCC prerequisite courses:

MCCC Prerequisites

William Paterson University Equivalent Courses

BIO106 Human Anatomy BIO1140 Applied A & P
PSY101 Introduction to Psychology PSY1100 General Psychology
PSY207 Developmental Psychology PSY2100 Developmental Psychology


Completing two of the following math courses will fulfill William Paterson University math requirements:

  • Complete two math courses: Math 125 and with 120 or 126 are recommended.

Make sure you have the courses required for graduation:

  • Six credits of one foreign language (American Sign Language I and II is also acceptable).