Program Overview
Psychology is the scientific study of behavior – how people perceive the world, think, and act. Students who major or minor in psychology take a common core of courses that provide a general introduction to the field, an understanding of the research techniques used by psychologists, and some hands-on research experience. The 200-level survey courses provide an overview of various sub-disciplines within the field of psychology, so that students can appreciate the breadth of topics that psychology addresses. Advanced courses provide opportunities to explore specific topics in greater depth. Psychology courses at all levels combine the study of people with a focus on the analysis and interpretation of data.
Members of the psychology faculty at Northwestern are active researchers, and the undergraduate program in psychology reflects their common concern with the advancement of knowledge about behavior. While there is ample recognition of the place of psychology in clinical, medical, business, and other applied settings, undergraduates at Northwestern should regard psychology as an enterprise of discovery and understanding, not simply as pre-professional training. With that being said, the study of psychology does provide an excellent foundation for a wide range of careers.
The psychology department offers many opportunities for students to interact with faculty outside of formal classes. Many of our students participate in independent study under the guidance of a faculty member – they may pursue a narrow topic in greater depth than is possible in our regular courses, or become actively involved in original research. Each psychology major and minor is assigned to a faculty adviser. Advisers can guide students as they choose among the many course offerings and research opportunities available within our department. In addition, students are encouraged to attend other educational opportunities within the department, such as colloquium presentations.
