Marian University

What you'll study

The programme builds core knowledge across the major domains of psychology while emphasising empirical methods and ethical practice. Early coursework typically covers introduction to psychology, research methods and statistics, biological bases of behaviour, and lifespan/developmental psychology. Core modules develop understanding of cognitive, social, personality and abnormal psychology, and include training in psychological assessment and ethics.

• Research methods and quantitative/statistical reasoning for psychological data
• Biopsychology/neuroscience and sensation & perception
• Developmental psychology from infancy through adulthood
• Abnormal psychology and clinical assessment
• Cognitive psychology, learning and memory
• Social psychology and group dynamics
• Professional ethics, multicultural competence and legal issues in practice

Students are encouraged to take elective and applied modules such as counselling techniques, community psychology, substance use and recovery, forensic psychology, or organisational psychology depending on interest. Practical learning is a key feature: small‑group labs, opportunities to work as research assistants with faculty, a supervised practicum or internship placement with local agencies, and a senior capstone project or honours thesis are regularly available.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme normally requires a completed secondary school qualification with a solid academic record and evidence of readiness for college‑level study. Recommended preparatory subjects include English and mathematics; coursework in natural or social sciences is advantageous. Marian University considers the whole application, including personal statement, references and extracurricular involvement. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Mature applicants and transfer students with college credit are welcome; transfer credit is evaluated on a course‑by‑course basis. There are no specialised auditions or portfolios required for the psychology major, though some applied placements may require background checks or health clearances.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of fields. Many go on to postgraduate study (master’s or doctoral programmes) to qualify for licenced clinical, counselling or school psychology roles. Others pursue careers that use psychological skills at the bachelor’s level, including:

• Research assistant roles in academic or market research settings
• Human resources, recruitment and training
• Case management, community and social services
• Behavioural health technician or rehabilitation support
• Education support roles and youth services
• Business roles in customer insight, organisational development and marketing

Marian graduates benefit from career services support, internship placement assistance and alumni networks when preparing for both employment and further professional training. Those targeting licenced clinical practice should plan for postgraduate professional degrees and supervised clinical hours as required by licensing bodies.

Why study at Marian University

Marian University offers psychology within a close‑knit liberal arts environment where students receive personalised attention from faculty who are active teachers and researchers. Class sizes are typically small, enabling one‑to‑one mentorship and accessible research opportunities for undergraduates.

• Emphasis on applied learning through local practicum placements and community partnerships
• Opportunities to participate in faculty‑led research and present at undergraduate symposia
• Supportive services for internships, graduate school preparation and professional development
• Values‑based education with attention to ethics, service and intercultural competence
• Campus facilities that support lab work, counselling training and student organisations

These features make Marian University suitable for students who want both strong academic preparation in psychology and practical experience that prepares them for the workforce or graduate study.