University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The psychology degree at CU Boulder combines core coursework in psychological science with methodological training and a range of elective topics. Core subjects typically include introductory psychology, research methods in psychology, statistics for the behavioural sciences, and biological bases of behaviour. From there students take foundational courses in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology and abnormal psychology.

Students can tailor their studies through electives and specialisation tracks that cover areas such as clinical psychology, cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychopathology, health psychology, industrial/organisational psychology and perception. Practical learning options commonly include research lab placements, a research practicum or honours thesis, field internships with community partners, and courses with applied skill components such as programme evaluation, measurement and assessment, or advanced statistics and data analysis.

• Core methodology and statistics (research methods, ANOVA/regression, experimental design)
• Biopsychology and cognitive neuroscience
• Developmental, social, and abnormal psychology
• Electives in clinical, health, organisational and applied psychology
• Undergraduate research opportunities and capstone/independent study options

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma (or equivalent) with a competitive academic record. Typical preparation includes coursework in mathematics (algebra and statistics if available), English, and at least one laboratory science. Admissions decisions also consider the overall high school programme, personal statement, and any relevant extracurricular or work experience.

Transfer applicants are asked to present college transcripts showing successful completion of transferable credit; those with prior psychology coursework will often be eligible for placement into intermediate courses. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional equivalents. Graduate study or licensure in clinical fields will require a separate application to postgraduate programmes and additional prerequisites.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s in psychology from CU Boulder prepares graduates for a wide range of entry‑level roles and for further study. Many graduates go on to:

• Work as research assistants in academic, clinical or industry labs
• Pursue roles in human resources, recruitment, training and organisational development
• Enter public health, case management, social services or community outreach positions
• Work in market research, user experience (UX) research, data analysis and applied analytics
• Apply to graduate programmes in clinical, counselling or school psychology, neuroscience, social work or other specialised fields (note: professional practice as a licensed psychologist requires graduate study and state licensure)

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder offers strong undergraduate research infrastructure and active faculty labs in cognitive, social, developmental and clinical psychology, giving undergraduates frequent opportunities to join research projects. The department emphasises rigorous methodological training and provides access to modern behavioural and neuroimaging facilities through interdisciplinary centres.

Students benefit from a campus culture that supports experiential learning—internships with local health and social service organisations, partnerships with industry for applied projects, and programmes that encourage cross‑disciplinary study in areas such as neuroscience, public health and data science. The university’s location also offers access to a broad community of research institutions, healthcare providers and outdoor opportunities that complement student life and wellbeing.