Psychology Department

BA - Psychology

The undergraduate degree assures a broad coverage of the major areas of content and methods in psychology identified by the American Psychological Association as the backbone of a strong degree program. The goal of the breadth part of the degree requirements is to provide a strong background in general psychology. In addition, sufficient flexibility is offered through choices in fulfilling these requirements and through the electives so that students, in consultation with their advisors, can design a program of study which focuses on each student's particular area of interest.

A carefully prepared multi-year program of study will ensure an appropriate sequencing of required courses (e.g., STAT 95 is a prerequisite for PSYC 100W, PSYC 100W is a prerequisite for PSYC 120, PSYC 120 is a pre- or co-prerequisite for 190) as well as using the advisor's expertise for GE, SJSU Studies, and American Institutions course selection and to ensure a strong foundation for future course work. To aid in this process the department has prepared a set of guidance sheets. These materials are especially important for those in the honors program or those planning to go on to graduate school in psychology. Other materials have also been prepared which give additional guidance in designing a particular program of study including suggestions about the order in which to take classes even if they are not governed by official prerequisite requirements. All these materials are available from www.sjsu.edu/psych or the department office.

Note: UNVS 015C may be used in lieu of the statistics course required by this major through the Summer 2014.