Montana State University

What you'll study

The programme covers core areas of psychological science and gives students hands‑on experience with research and applied practice. First‑ and second‑year courses establish fundamentals in introductory psychology, research methods, and statistics. Upper‑level modules allow specialisation and typically include developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, biological/physiological psychology, personality theory, learning and motivation.

Students are encouraged to participate in laboratory courses and faculty‑led research. Typical course types and experiences include:

• Research Methods & Statistics: experimental design, data analysis, and ethical research practice.
• Core Content Areas: developmental, clinical/abnormal, cognitive, social and biological psychology.
• Applied Training: practicum, internships, or field placements in community or clinical settings.
• Advanced Electives & Capstone: seminars, honours projects or a senior thesis option for students pursuing research or graduate study.

The degree can be taken with emphasises or minors to combine psychology with related fields such as neuroscience, sociology, public health or business, preparing students for interdisciplinary careers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a college‑preparatory high school programme. Admission considers secondary school academic performance and the strength of the overall application. Montana State University typically looks for demonstrated achievement in core subjects such as English and mathematics; prior coursework in science or social science is advantageous.

Transfer applicants should present college transcripts showing satisfactory progress and completion of introductory coursework where possible. International applicants must provide proof of secondary school completion and demonstrate English proficiency according to MSU policy. Specific admission criteria and any standardised testing policies are available from the university admissions office.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology from Montana State University prepares graduates for a variety of entry‑level roles and further study. Common career paths include:

• Human services and community support roles (behavioural health technician, case coordinator, residential support)
• Business and organisational roles (human resources, training and development, consumer research)
• Education and youth services (paraeducator, programme coordinator, youth worker)
• Research and data roles (research assistant, data analyst assistant, lab technician)
• Criminal justice and public safety positions (victim advocate, correctional support roles, rehabilitation services)

Many graduates also use the bachelor’s as preparation for graduate training (master’s or doctoral programmes) in clinical, counselling, school or experimental psychology, as well as related fields such as social work, public health or occupational therapy.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State University offers psychology students small‑group instruction, accessible faculty, and the chance to engage with active research projects. The department emphasises applied learning through laboratory experiences, community practicum placements and opportunities to present or publish research. Students benefit from MSU’s campus resources, including research centres, counselling and health services partnerships, and interdisciplinary collaboration with departments such as neuroscience, education and public health.

Located in Bozeman, the university also provides a supportive learning environment with extracurricular and volunteer opportunities that complement classroom study and help build professional networks in the region.