Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational courses with applied and research-focused modules. Early study covers core areas such as introductory psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology and biological bases of behaviour. Students build quantitative and methodological skills through statistics, research methods, and laboratory practica.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, Psychological Statistics, Biological Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, Abnormal Psychology.
• Applied and advanced topics: Personality, Psychopathology, Psychological Assessment, Health Psychology, Industrial/Organisational Psychology, Forensic Psychology (where available), and courses in diversity and lifespan development.
• Research and practical experience: Laboratory classes, a senior capstone or honours project, and opportunities for independent research under faculty supervision. Many students also complete internships or field placements in schools, clinics, social service agencies or businesses.
• Electives and minors: Options to take electives or a minor in related areas such as criminology, education, business, or biological sciences to broaden career options.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high-school diploma (or equivalent) with a record of academic achievement. Admissions typically consider overall academic performance, personal statement and references. Some familiarity with mathematics or statistics is beneficial, and applicants with limited quantitative background may be advised to take preparatory courses.

• Standard secondary-school qualifications from recognised awarding bodies are accepted; mature and transfer applicants are considered on an individual basis.
• Admission does not usually require prior study in psychology, but a demonstrated interest in the subject strengthens an application.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency standards set by the university.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology prepares graduates for a variety of careers and is also a stepping stone to postgraduate professional training. Common destinations include:

• Human services and social care — roles such as case worker, rehabilitation support, youth worker or community outreach coordinator.
• Business and industry — positions in human resources, recruitment, training and development, customer insight and market research.
• Education and youth work — roles in education support, teaching assistantships and school counselling pathways (often requiring further qualifications).
• Research and analytics — research assistant posts in academic, clinical or commercial settings, and roles involving data analysis and survey design.
• Further professional training — many graduates go on to master's or doctoral programmes in clinical, counselling, educational or organisational psychology, or specialist fields such as forensic psychology, to qualify as registered practitioners.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers psychology students a balance of theoretical instruction and practical experience. The department emphasises small-group teaching, research mentorship and hands-on laboratory work, helping students develop both analytical and applied skills.

• Students can gain research experience working with faculty on supervised projects and have access to facilities for experimental and behavioural research.
• Field placement and internship opportunities with local schools, clinics and community organisations help translate classroom learning into professional practice.
• The programme supports a range of student goals, from immediate entry into the workforce to preparation for competitive postgraduate training in professional psychology.