Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The psychology major combines foundational coursework in psychological science with applied and research-oriented experiences. Core topics include introduction to psychology, research methods, and statistics, together with major-area courses such as developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, abnormal psychology, personality, and biological bases of behaviour.

• Foundations: Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, and Psychological Statistics provide the conceptual and methodological tools used across the discipline.
• Core content areas: Developmental, Social, Cognitive, Abnormal/Clinical, Personality, and Biological/Neuroscience perspectives.
• Applied and experiential learning: Practica, internships or supervised field placements with community agencies, clinics or school settings allow students to apply theory in real-world contexts.
• Research and capstone: Options typically include senior seminar, capstone projects or an honours thesis that emphasise independent research, critical analysis and academic communication.
• Electives and interdisciplinary opportunities: Students can usually choose electives in areas such as health psychology, forensic psychology, industrial-organisational psychology, counselling, or courses offered through allied departments (biology, education, sociology).

Entry requirements

Admission to Valparaiso University requires a completed secondary school qualification and a record demonstrating preparation for university-level study. Applicants for the psychology major should show readiness in mathematics and science because statistics and research methods are central to the curriculum.

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent with transcripts showing academic performance across a broad curriculum.
• Recommended preparatory subjects: college-preparatory mathematics (algebra and beyond), coursework in biology or other sciences, and strong work in writing and social sciences.
• Additional materials such as a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or a résumé may strengthen an application; prospective students should consult Valparaiso University's admissions guidance for current requirements and any test-policy updates.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology from Valparaiso University prepares graduates for a range of entry-level roles in human services, education, business, and research support, and serves as the typical first step toward specialised graduate study when required for professional practice.

• Direct-entry roles: case management, behavioural health technician, rehabilitation support, human resources assistant, community outreach coordinator, and administrative roles in healthcare or social services.
• Graduate pathways: Many graduates pursue master’s or doctoral training to become clinical, counselling, school, or research psychologists, as well as careers in occupational therapy, social work, or public health.
• Other directions: careers in market research, user-experience research, criminal justice, education, and nonprofit leadership draw on psychology graduates’ skills in research, communication and understanding human behaviour.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University combines a values-based liberal-arts education with close faculty mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities. The psychology programme emphasises small classes, collaborative research with faculty, and practicum placements that connect students with community agencies and clinical settings in the region.

• Faculty mentorship: Undergraduate-focused faculty who supervise research projects, capstones and independent studies.
• Experiential learning: Internship and practicum networks that provide applied experience in schools, hospitals, community mental-health agencies and businesses.
• Interdisciplinary strengths: Access to courses and resources across allied fields such as biology, education, sociology and philosophy to support diverse career and graduate-school goals.
• Support services: Career services, alumni networks and academic advising that help students plan internships, graduate applications and job searches.