Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. Psychology majors
examine human behavior, experiences, and the functioning of the mind in relation to heredity, development, personality, and social functions. Students majoring in psychology must choose to pursue either a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) degree.

The B.S. degree emphasizes the scientific bases of psychology and the theoretical foundation of the field. The curriculum is designed to give students the academic foundation for success on the Graduate Records Exam and in extended graduate study. Students who are interested in pursuing a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in clinical psychology or who are interested in a Ph.D. in other areas of psychology are encouraged to consider a Bachelor of Science degree.

The A.B. degree emphasizes the applied area of psychology. Students who are interested in pursuing master’s level graduate work (master's in social work, master's in counseling psychology, master's in educational counseling or school psychology) or who plan to work in business, human services, or other areas at the completion of their undergraduate degrees are encouraged to consider a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Careers in Psychology

Human service professions offer the most entry occupations for students with an
undergraduate major in psychology. Psychology graduates often work with licensed social workers and licensed counselors to serve the needs of individuals, families, and groups. Businesses, non-profit private and public agencies also recruit psychology majors. Marketing, consumer behavior, human resources, sales, and development are examples of areas that hire psychology graduates. Graduate school training is required for careers in clinical psychology or counseling, for teaching psychology in college or becoming research psychologists. Students who intend to pursue graduate studies should take specific psychology courses that provide a strong foundation in the discipline; they should also plan internships and research participation as parts of their academic program.

Internships

Internships are important learning experiences at Wilmington. Interns apply what they have studied in college courses to real on-the-job situations. Internships can be set up with mental health clinics, counseling centers, industries, local government offices, and human services organizations. Students who want practical experience in one of these agencies can schedule a three to six semester hour internship during any semester or during a summer session.