St. Thomas University (FL)

What you'll study

The psychology degree combines core courses in scientific, developmental and social approaches to behaviour with practical training in research methods and assessment. The curriculum emphasises applied learning, ethical practice and multicultural competence, reflecting the university's focus on service and community engagement.

• Core topics: Introduction to Psychology, Developmental Psychology (lifespan), Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive and Biological Bases of Behaviour.
• Research and quantitative skills: Research Methods in Psychology, Statistics for the Behavioural Sciences, Experimental Psychology, and a practicum or senior research capstone project.
• Applied and elective areas: Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Child and Adolescent Psychology, Substance Abuse and Behavioural Interventions, and organisational/industrial psychology electives.
• Experiential learning: Supervised practicum or internship placements with community agencies, schools, hospitals or legal settings in the Greater Miami area, plus opportunities for faculty‑led research and community outreach projects.
• Capstone: A senior seminar or research project that integrates theory, methods and applied work, often requiring a written report and presentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions consider academic records, a personal statement and, where provided, letters of recommendation. The programme typically expects a foundation in college‑preparatory mathematics and English; formal prerequisites in science are not usually required but may be recommended for certain electives.

• First‑year applicants: Secondary school transcript demonstrating strong academic performance; some background in mathematics/statistics is helpful.
• Transfer applicants: Official college transcripts showing completion of transferable credits; course equivalence in introductory psychology and statistics can be beneficial.
• International applicants: Proof of secondary education equivalence and evidence of English proficiency where required (for example, recognised English language tests or previous instruction in English).
• Additional materials: A personal statement outlining interest in psychology and career goals; interviews or portfolio materials may be requested for competitive placements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a psychology bachelor’s from St. Thomas University enter a range of entry‑level roles across the public and private sectors or continue to postgraduate study. The degree develops transferable skills in research, communication, problem solving and interpersonal work that employers value.

• Employment options include roles such as community or case worker, behavioural health technician, rehabilitation specialist, research assistant, human resources or training coordinator, and support positions in schools and social services.
• Many graduates progress to postgraduate training for careers as licensed counsellors, clinical psychologists, school psychologists, social workers or healthcare practitioners; admission to those professional programmes typically requires graduate study and supervised clinical hours.
• Other pathways include forensic and legal support services, public health, non‑profit programme management, and positions in business that draw on understanding of human behaviour and data analysis.

Why study at St. Thomas University (FL)

St. Thomas University offers a small, student‑centred learning environment with a strong emphasis on ethical practice and community engagement. The university’s location in the Miami metropolitan area provides access to a diverse population and a wide range of practicum and internship partners in healthcare, education, legal and social service agencies.

• Faculty mentorship: Close faculty supervision and opportunities for undergraduate research and independent projects.
• Practical opportunities: Established practicum and internship links with local hospitals, schools, community agencies and courts, supporting applied learning and employability.
• Community focus: A curriculum informed by social justice and multicultural competence, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse settings.
• Support services: Academic advising, career services and counselling resources to help students plan careers or further study in psychology and allied professions.