Major in Psychology
Program Overview
Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science
Department Name
Psychology
Department Chair Name
Department Assistant Name
What is a psychology degree?
To major in psychology is to deeply examine the science of mental processes and behavior. A degree in psychology involves taking classes in research methods and statistics, as well as coursework in core areas of the discipline (e.g., biopsychology, clinical psychology, cognition, development, health psychology, learning and social psychology).
Why study psychology at Furman?
Furman has one of the strongest undergraduate psychology programs in the country. Our curriculum offers the opportunity to survey the breadth of the discipline while also giving students a chance to look more deeply into areas of special interest to them. Dedicated professors who are also active scholars, small classes, well-equipped research facilities and Furman’s commitment to a liberal arts and sciences approach to learning are hallmarks of the program. With a degree from Furman, you’ll have the knowledge and hands-on experience to excel in graduate school or the job market.
How will you learn?
Our program combines exceptional classroom instruction with hands-on learning opportunities. Nearly all of our majors complete at least one engaged learning experience, including undergraduate research, internship or study away. Small class sizes give students increased access to professors who are among the best in their fields. Plan a visit to Furman’s beautiful campus or start your application today.
Careers for psychology majors
Employers consistently identify innovation, critical thinking and a broad skill set as the qualities they seek when hiring. As a psychology major at Furman, you will develop those skills along with a detailed understanding of human behavior – all attributes that are attractive to future employers and prestigious graduate study programs. Nearly half our graduates attend graduate school. Although a background in psychology will be an asset in nearly every field, psychology majors go on to rewarding futures in specific occupations such as:
- Mental health counselor
- Health care worker
- Researcher or data analyst
- School psychologist
- Medical scientist
- Human resource manager
- Marketing analyst
Psychology courses: What will you study?
Sample courses include:
Health Psychology
What our students say
“I chose to major in psychology because it was the major that challenged me the most. As a hospital chaplain, I use my studies every day to connect emotionally with patients, make sense of their diagnoses and help people find purpose and meaning. Having a better understanding of human behavior and mental processes also helps me to be a better human as I navigate my own pressure points while caring for others.” – Hillary Taylor ’12
Our faculty
Your academic advisor will help you explore your passions, define your interests and achieve your goals. You’ll tap into a widespread network of community and alumni mentors to help you on your individual educational path – and to the opportunities at the end of it. Furman’s dedicated psychology faculty are award winning teachers and mentors who are committed to involving students in high quality research in our labs. Take your first steps by contacting admissions or reading more about how to apply.
FAQ
With a psychology degree you will be well-prepared for the fields of psychology, medicine and health-related careers, social work, education, nonprofit service, human resources, marketing and many others. Nearly half our graduates attend graduate school, and other recent graduates currently work in organizations such as Children’s Hospital of Boston, the U.S. National Parks Service, Pfizer Inc., Windstream Communications, South Carolina Department of Social Services, Centers for Disease Control, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
According to a recent study by Emsi, recent psychology graduates earned an estimated wage of $48,000 per year or higher, with a potential wage of $80,500 per year or higher.
It typically takes a student four years to earn a B.A. or B.S. in psychology at Furman.