What you'll study as a psychology major
You’ll acquire foundational knowledge about psychology, engage with the scientific study of behavior, and learn to apply your understanding of psychology to situations outside of the classroom.
Establish a research-focused core
Learn research basics through a scaffolded approach. Build on that foundation by collaborating with peers and faculty mentors outside of the classroom. Students often co-author publications and present their research at regional conferences.
Explore psychology through electives
Investigate topics such as aging, health, psychopathology, therapeutic interventions, development, motivation, and reasoning.
Apply your knowledge
Explore how psychology relates to education, therapy, workplace management, and consumer behavior, among other applications.
Why is psychology better at Denison?
Psychology is a STEM major
At Denison, psychology is taught as a scientific discipline and is therefore considered a STEM major. Psychology students engage in multiple research experiences, and scientific methodology and statistical analysis are part of their regular coursework.
Psychology is interdisciplinary
Explore interdisciplinary programs to enhance your interest in psychology. Psychology faculty and coursework contribute to our Data Analytics, Educational Studies, and Global Health majors, as well as Denison’s Organizational Studies certificate program.
Neuroscience Concentration
Explore the biological, chemical, and psychological dimensions of the brain. Through interdisciplinary study, you’ll gain insight into how these elements control various aspects of human experience, including cognition, memory, emotion, sensory perception, and physiological regulation.
Jobs as a psychology major
Psychology grads work in a wide range of industries, from schools, hospitals, and social services agencies to consulting, consumer analytics, and HR. See where our grads land.
A psychology major can be a first step toward a career in clinical psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, and other helping professions.
Career communities
Psych majors often join one or more of our career communities. Given psychology’s diversity, students can explore connections to the fields of marketing, education, clinical research, business, health care, and social services, among others.
Career exploration
Through the Knowlton Center for Career Exploration and its training center, Denison Edge, career coaches help you prepare for the next step after college, and industry experts help you acquire specialized skills and certifications.
Beyond the Classroom
Internships
Explore careers related to psychology through an internship (or two!). Psychology majors have interned at the Cleveland Clinic, University of Michigan, and YMCA of Central Ohio.
Study Abroad
Study psychology in your chosen region to enhance your language skills and build your network. Conduct research on a traditional semester abroad or take a summer internship in another country.
Summer Scholars
Delve into independent research through our Summer Scholar program. All Summer Scholars receive a stipend and a housing allowance plus supplemental funds for research expenses. Off-Campus Summer Scholars may also receive travel funding.
Kantor Series
Events such as the J. R. Kantor lecture series bring noteworthy psychologists to campus to present lectures and meet with students. The department hosts many occasions to bring students and faculty together.