Psychology Major

The major consists of a minimum of 9.5 full courses (or the equivalent).

Students must earn minimum grades of C- or P for all courses that apply toward the major.

View the catalog page for the Psychology department.

The major is organized to provide students both breadth and depth in their study and an opportunity for reflection in preparation for graduation. To this end, students are required to take an introduction to Psychology or related fields as well as one introductory course in each of Psychology’s four core areas: Clinical, Cognitive, Developmental, and Social. All students take a two-semester sequence in statistics and research methods. Students must complete one upper-level Advanced Methods course and one Seminar. In their final year on campus, students enroll in a module course (PSYC 599 ) in which they prepare a portfolio of their work, reflect on their work at Oberlin and their plans after graduation, and complete assessment tasks. This course will normally be taken in the Fall semester of their senior year. We encourage all students to engage in supervised research or internships to explore their interests, better understand how skills learned in the classroom apply in real-world settings, and foster their ability to collaborate on complex projects.

View recommended pathways.

*Note: Students must complete an introductory course in each of Psychology’s four core areas: Clinical, Cognitive, Developmental, and Social.

Recommended Pathways

Recommended pathway: Students intending to major in Psychology should complete an introductory course (PSYC 100, COGS 101 or NSCI 201) in their first year. Because upper-level courses and many research experiences require statistics, we strongly urge prospective majors to finish Research Methods I (PSYC 200) and II (PSYC 300) by the second semester of their sophomore year. This is particularly important if they hope to study abroad during their junior year. One of the strengths of the department is the many opportunities it offers for student research. We strongly encourage students to pursue those opportunities, particularly if they are considering graduate work. Those interested in pursuing a career in clinical psychology should speak to their advisor early and take additional coursework in neuroscience and statistics. All majors should talk to their advisors and other members of the Department about the many opportunities available for fieldwork, research, and winter term internships.

Transfer of Credit

All transfer credit must be approved by the Department Chair. Students should obtain prior written approval from the Department Chair to ensure that courses taken at other institutions will count toward major requirements. At least 5 required courses must be completed at Oberlin, including at least one Advanced Methods or Seminar. It is the student’s responsibility to complete the transfer of credit forms and submit them to the Office of the Registrar. Please note that PSYC 200 comprises statistics, research methods, and a lab in SPSS. Students wishing to transfer a replacement for this course should consult carefully with their advisor.

Honors

The Department of Psychology’s honors program is described in detail on the department’s Blackboard site. It typically requires three full semesters of work. Students planning to study abroad during their junior year should consult with their advisor during their sophomore year. Eligible psychology majors will receive an invitation to pursue honors in fall of their junior year.