University of Memphis

What you'll study

• Foundations: introductory courses in general psychology, biological bases of behaviour, developmental psychology, and social psychology that establish core knowledge of major psychological perspectives.
• Research and quantitative methods: research methods, statistics for the behavioural sciences and laboratory courses that develop skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing.
• Specialist topics: courses such as abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, personality, learning and memory, sensation and perception, and neuropsychology to broaden theoretical and applied understanding.
• Applied and practicum experience: supervised practicum or internship placements with community organisations and mental health agencies, plus opportunities to work in faculty research labs.
• Capstone and electives: senior seminar or capstone project and elective modules allowing focus areas such as clinical/counselling preparation, developmental or cognitive science, and industrial/organisational topics.
• Flexible degree paths: the programme can be taken as a BA or BS, permitting combinations with second majors, minors or coursework in related fields (biology, criminology, business, education) depending on career goals.

Entry requirements

• Successful completion of secondary education equivalent to a US high school diploma with a competitive academic record; specific grade expectations depend on overall admissions standards.
• Recommended preparation includes coursework in mathematics (algebra or statistics), biological sciences and English.
• Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered according to university admissions policies; applicants with international qualifications should submit equivalent certification and English proficiency proof where required.
• Transfer applicants must meet college transfer criteria with a record of college-level coursework; advanced standing can be awarded for appropriate AP/IB or prior university credits in consultation with the department.
• Admission to the major may require declaration after completing introductory psychology and prerequisite courses with satisfactory grades—check the department for the current sequence of prerequisites.

Career prospects

• Graduates with a bachelor’s in psychology enter a wide range of entry-level roles in human services, case management, rehabilitation support, community outreach and behavioural health support.
• Business and public sector roles include human resources, market research, customer insights, sales support and organisational development where understanding of human behaviour and data analysis are valued.
• Research assistant and laboratory technician positions are common first steps for students aiming for graduate study in psychology or related fields.
• Many graduates pursue postgraduate training (master’s or doctoral) to become licensed clinical psychologists, counsellors, school psychologists or researchers; the undergraduate programme is structured to prepare students for such advanced study.
• Additional career pathways include education, public health, criminal justice, and programme evaluation—areas where psychological theory, assessment skills and research literacy are applicable.

Why study at University of Memphis

• The Department of Psychology is based in the College of Arts & Sciences and offers both theoretical and applied training, with faculty active in a broad range of research areas including developmental, cognitive, clinical, social and health psychology.
• Students have opportunities for hands-on experience through faculty-led research labs, community practicum placements and internships with local hospitals, schools and social service agencies in the Memphis region.
• The university supports undergraduate research and professional development through mentorship, seminar offerings and campus organisations such as the psychology honour society, aiding preparation for graduate study or early career employment.
• Flexible degree options and cross-disciplinary combinations allow students to tailor the degree to specific career goals—whether heading directly into the workforce or preparing for further professional training.