Psychology
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (B.A., B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Psychology is the science of mind and behavior.
Overview
This program delves into the study of thought, action, and emotion, exploring how people influence and interact with one another, develop over time, and the role biological mechanisms play in psychological processes. The curriculum is designed to offer both breadth and depth in the field, preparing students for diverse career paths and advanced studies.
You will engage in courses that cover key areas of psychology, including behavioral neuroscience, cognition and perception, developmental psychology, and social psychology. Electives encourage the exploration of advanced topics like psychopathology, psychology and culture, and organizational psychology, allowing your education to fit your unique interests and career goals.
Majoring in psychology at Grand Valley State University means joining a vibrant academic community dedicated to inquiry, integrity, and creativity. The program offers hands-on learning opportunities, including internships and research projects, which enhance your practical skills and employability. With a strong support system and a commitment to your success, Grand Valley State University is an excellent choice for those passionate about understanding human behavior and making a positive impact in the field of psychology.
Department of Psychology
gvsu.edu/psychology
2224 Au Sable Hall
(616) 331-2195
Career Opportunities
Assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests. Help individuals with distress or maladjustment understand their problems through their knowledge of case history, interviews with patients, and theory. Provide individual or group counseling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development and adjustment. May design behavior modification programs and consult with medical personnel regarding the best treatment for patients.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 56,358.27 | 10% |
| $ 65,835.85 | 25% |
| $ 81,014.02 | 50% |
| $103,903.07 | 75% |
| $144,759.01 | 90% |
Diagnose and implement individual or schoolwide interventions or strategies to address educational, behavioral, or developmental issues that adversely impact educational functioning in a school. May address student learning and behavioral problems and counsel students or families. May design and implement performance plans, and evaluate performance. May consult with other school-based personnel.
Top skills- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 50,664.74 | 10% |
| $ 62,487.44 | 25% |
| $ 76,846.77 | 50% |
| $ 91,503.02 | 75% |
| $105,223.38 | 90% |
Apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to evaluate and diagnose disorders of higher cerebral functioning, often in research and medical settings. Study the human brain and the effect of physiological states on human cognition and behavior. May formulate and administer programs of treatment.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 28,344.47 | 10% |
| $ 47,708.17 | 25% |
| $ 75,455.09 | 50% |
| $124,726.77 | 75% |
| $219,301.84 | 90% |
Teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology, and psychological counseling. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Top skills- Learning Strategies
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Instructing
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 46,406.69 | 10% |
| $ 60,100.88 | 25% |
| $ 85,823.68 | 50% |
| $123,123.26 | 75% |
| $166,433.09 | 90% |
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Psychology Club, Psi Chi, and SAGE
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Grand Valley has several psychology-focused student organizations/clubs.
Psych Friends Peer Mentoring
Psych Friends Peer Mentoring aims to increase the academic success & well-being of psychology students by connecting upper division psychology majors (mentors) with students newer to the major (mentees). Psych Friends is a great way to expand your knowledge on all that the field of psychology has to offer and to build a social network with others within the psychology community.
Career Advising
Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.
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