Presbyterian College

What you'll study

The psychology programme provides a balance of core theories, empirical methods and applied practice. Early modules introduce fundamental areas such as Introduction to Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology and Biological Bases of Behaviour. Students build research literacy through courses in Research Methods and Statistics for the Behavioural Sciences and take laboratory-based modules that develop experimental design, data collection and analysis skills.

• Core subjects: introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, biological/behavioural neuroscience
• Broad-area studies: developmental psychology, personality, social psychology, cognitive psychology and learning
• Clinical and applied topics: abnormal psychology, counselling foundations, assessment and intervention techniques
• Capstone and practicum: senior seminar, practicum or internship with community partners, and an independent research project or honours thesis option where available
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses that connect psychology with education, sociology, health sciences, and philosophy to support diverse career and study pathways

The degree is delivered within a liberal arts curriculum, so students will also complete general education requirements that enhance critical thinking, writing and quantitative skills. Small-class teaching and opportunities for faculty-mentored undergraduate research are key features of the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions criteria include a competitive high-school record with strengths in English and mathematics; coursework in biology or social sciences is advantageous. Presbyterian College considers the whole application, including academic transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Standardised test scores may be submitted where relevant but applicants should consult the college admissions office for current testing policies and further guidance on transfer or non-traditional entry.

Career prospects

A Bachelor’s in Psychology from Presbyterian College prepares graduates for a range of entry-level roles and for further professional training. Common early-career positions include research assistant, case manager, behavioural health technician, human resources assistant, community outreach coordinator and roles in education and social services. Many graduates proceed to postgraduate study in fields such as clinical psychology, counselling, school psychology, social work, occupational therapy, public health or industrial-organisational psychology.

The programme emphasises transferable skills — critical thinking, data literacy, interpersonal communication and ethical practice — which are valued across business, healthcare, education and non-profit sectors. Practical placements and faculty-led research projects help students develop professional experience and networks to support career progression or graduate-study applications.

Why study at Presbyterian College

Presbyterian College offers a personalised undergraduate experience characterised by small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. Psychology students benefit from ready access to faculty for research supervision, practicum placement support and academic advising. The college’s liberal-arts environment encourages interdisciplinary study and develops well-rounded graduates with strong written and oral communication skills.

Hands-on learning is emphasised through laboratory courses, community partnerships for practicum placements, and opportunities to present research regionally. The campus community and alumni network provide additional support for internships, graduate-school preparation and early-career development. As part of a values-based liberal-arts institution, the programme also integrates ethical reflection and social responsibility into psychological training.