University of Mount Union

What you'll study

The psychology degree combines core foundations in psychological science with hands-on research and applied practice. Early modules typically cover introduction to psychology, research methods and statistics, and biological bases of behaviour. Core areas of study include developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, abnormal psychology and personality.

Upper-level options and seminars allow students to specialise and gain practical experience. Typical topics and modules include:

• Research Methods and Statistics: experimental design, data analysis, and ethical research practice.
• Biopsychology/Physiological Psychology: neural systems, sensation and perception, and psychopharmacology basics.
• Developmental Psychology: lifespan development from infancy to older adulthood.
• Abnormal and Clinical Psychology: assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based interventions.
• Social and Personality Psychology: attitudes, group processes, personality assessment and theory.
• Cognitive Psychology: memory, attention, learning and decision-making.
• Applied and Professional Practice: practicum placements, counselling techniques, psychological testing and interventions.
• Capstone/Senior Project: supervised research thesis or applied internship demonstrating integration of knowledge and skills.

Students are encouraged to engage in faculty-led research projects, clinical practicum experiences through the on-campus counselling clinic and off-campus internships with health, education and social service organisations.

Entry requirements

Admission to the psychology programme is at undergraduate level and typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record. Successful applicants often present a balanced mix of coursework including English and mathematics; biology and social science subjects are advantageous.

Typical components of an application include:

• Academic transcript: showing secondary school completion with competitive grades.
• Personal statement: outlining interest in psychology and relevant experience or motivation.
• References: at least one academic or professional reference that speaks to the applicant's readiness for university study.

Standardised tests (where submitted) and extracurricular experience in volunteer, leadership or work settings can strengthen an application. Mature applicants and transfer students are considered on the basis of prior academic performance and relevant experience. Students enrolling in the programme should expect to meet any institution-wide admission requirements and to consult the department for specific placement in statistics or advanced psychology modules.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mount Union prepares graduates for a range of entry-level roles and is also the first step toward professional specialisation. Common career paths include:

• Human services and mental health support roles such as case manager, behavioural technician or rehabilitation support worker.
• Entry-level positions in human resources, training and development, and organisational support.
• Roles in education including paraprofessional positions and support roles within schools.
• Market research and consumer insight positions that use research and data-analysis skills.
• Criminal justice and forensic support roles, victim advocacy and probation services.
• Research assistant positions in academic or clinical research settings.

Graduates intending to become licensed psychologists, clinical counsellors, school psychologists or other specialist practitioners will typically pursue postgraduate training (master’s or doctoral level) and meet relevant licensure or certification requirements. The programme’s emphasis on research methods and practicum experience also supports applications to competitive graduate programmes.

Why study at University of Mount Union

Mount Union offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling personalised learning and research opportunities. Psychology students benefit from access to an on-campus counselling clinic and structured practicum placements that provide supervised applied experience.

The department emphasises undergraduate research, with opportunities to collaborate directly with faculty on experimental and applied projects. Career services and internship support help students secure placements in healthcare, education, non-profit and business settings. For students seeking a supportive campus with a focus on hands-on training and preparation for both employment and graduate study, Mount Union provides a programme designed to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.