Point Park University

What you'll study

The psychology curriculum provides a balance of core scientific knowledge, methodological training and applied experience. Typical core courses include Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, and Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences, supported by substantive courses such as Developmental Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Biological/Neuroscience of Behaviour.

Students usually complete a mix of lecture courses, laboratory work and applied practica. Upper‑level offerings commonly cover topics like Personality Theory, Psychopathology, Assessment and Testing, Psychopharmacology, Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology and Industrial‑Organisational Psychology. Many programmes include a senior capstone, independent research or a practicum/internship placement with community partners to apply skills in real settings.

The degree is delivered within a liberal arts framework: students complete general education requirements in addition to major coursework, allowing breadth across the humanities, social sciences and communication. Electives and possible minor combinations let students tailor the degree toward clinical, research, education or business applications.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a satisfactory academic record. Point Park considers a combination of high school GPA, transcript content, and other application materials. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on institutional policy.

Applicants should demonstrate competence in core skills such as writing and quantitative reasoning; preparatory courses in English and mathematics are beneficial. International applicants must show proof of equivalent secondary education and English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways.

Transfer students are assessed on college transcripts; many psychology majors begin with introductory psychology and statistics and then apply to upper‑division major courses once prerequisite requirements are met. Some programmes also recommend or require a brief personal statement outlining interest in psychology and any relevant volunteer or work experience.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology opens diverse early‑career opportunities and is also a common stepping stone to graduate study. Graduates often find roles as case managers, behavioural health technicians, human resources assistants, research assistants, rehabilitation support staff, community outreach coordinators, or in sales and marketing where understanding of human behaviour is an asset.

Many careers that provide clinical counselling or therapy require postgraduate training; alumni frequently progress to master’s or doctoral programmes in clinical psychology, counselling, school psychology, social work, or allied health professions. Other pathways include further study in industrial‑organisational psychology, public health, education, or law.

Point Park’s emphasis on internships and community partnerships helps students build practical experience and professional networks in local hospitals, social service agencies, school systems and private sector organisations.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park’s campus in downtown Pittsburgh offers ready access to hospitals, community agencies, businesses and cultural institutions that serve as practicum and internship sites. The university emphasises small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits students pursuing undergraduate research or applied placements.

The psychology programme prioritises experiential learning—students can engage in hands‑on research, lab work and supervised field placements coordinated through the department. Faculty typically have applied and research experience in areas such as clinical practice, developmental and cognitive science, and community mental health, helping link classroom learning to professional practice.

For students seeking a professionally oriented undergraduate experience in an urban setting, Point Park provides opportunities to combine psychology with minors or courses in business, education, theatre, and communication, reflecting the university’s interdisciplinary and applied approach.