Students majoring in Psychology (either B.A. or B.S. degree) may choose to complete a specialization, which provides depth and breadth of knowledge in a particular area of Psychology. These specialized curricula are designed to prepare students interested in bachelor-level careers with skills that can enhance their occupational opportunities and to provide training for advanced studies in these and allied areas.
Specializations are offered in the following areas:
The specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is designed to prepare students for careers and graduate study in the field of ABA. Through both coursework and practical internship experience, students will gain an enhanced insight into the ways in which ABA is used to improve the lives, functioning, and independence of children and their families.
More information on the ABA specialization (including the course checklist).
The specialization in Biopsychology is designed to prepare students to critically think about and understand the physiological side of psychology. The coursework required for this specialization will provide students with more in-depth understandings of neuropsychology and genetics, and can be helpful preparation for graduate school in those fields.
More information on the Biopsychology specialization (including the course checklist).
The specialization in Developmental Psychology is designed to prepare students to reflect on the many factors that influence human development. The coursework will provide you with a broader understanding of both child and lifespan development, as well as provide more insight into the intersection between the reciprocal influence of culture, neighborhoods, school climate, families, and public health concerns and human development across the lifespan.
More information on the Developmental Psychology specialization (including the course checklist).
The specialty in Diversity, Inclusion and Multicultural Psychology is designed to promote critical thinking skills that will enhance diversity awareness, develop fluency in diversity issues, and integrate the value of diverse belief systems that can be applied to any aspect of future careers. Completion of this specialty will provide a foundation for promoting mutual respect, working competently with, providing services to, and studying diverse populations in more sensitive and culturally appropriate ways.
More information on the Diversity, Inclusion, and Multicultural Psychology specialization (including the course checklist).
The Human Services Psychology specialization is concerned with the application of psychological knowledge to understand, treat and prevent psychological and physical disorders. The coursework in this specialization provides students with a more in-depth understanding of various aspects of mental healthcare and prepares them for graduate school in psychology.
More information on the Human Services Psychology specialization (including the course checklist).
Specialization coursework can be used to partially fulfill major requirements (some Domain and upper-level requirements); however, students must ensure that they take additional coursework (e.g. PSYC 309 and PSYC 311) to satisfy all requirements for the major. Completion of a Specialization is recognized with a certificate from the Department, but does not show on a student’s transcript. In exceptional circumstances, some flexibility in fulfilling requirements may be permitted.