Psychology (BA, BS)

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and the mind.

Students who study psychology at Ohio State take courses in the brain and behavior, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology and social psychology. Psychology students have access to faculty who are prominent researchers and have opportunities to work alongside them in research labs, studying topics such as emotion regulation, childhood mood disorders, stress and health in pregnancy, language perception, psychopharmacology, attitude formation, neurobiology of learning and memory, stress and cognition, brain plasticity after trauma, animal models of psychiatric disorders (Alzheimer's, depression, schizophrenia), and the biology of human social interactions.

Students work with advisors committed to their academic and career success. A wealth of programming and opportunities including research, internships, career exploration talks, study abroad and social events, allow students to reach beyond the classroom to individualize their learning. Psychology Student Ambassadors encourage community within the department through mentoring, events and social media.

Academic Advisors

Schedule an Appointment with Psychology

(614) 292-5750
015 Psychology Building

Alison Baker

baker.320@osu.edu
Last names C-F and international students

Lisa Cravens-Brown (honors students)

cravens-brown.1@osu.edu
Honors students

Ashley Sweaney

sweaney.1@osu.edu
Last names G-L

Liz McGinnis

mcginnis.2008@osu.edu
Last names M-Sb

Alisa Paulsen (honors students)

paulsen.10@osu.edu
Honors Students

Jackie von Spiegel

von-spiegel.2@osu.edu
Last names A-B

Laura Whitaker

whitaker.139@osu.edu
Last names Sc-Z and student athletes

Affiliated Departments & Centers

Associated Facilities

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Psychology is the study of the biological, cognitive, emotional, and social processes related to human and animal behavior. Using scientific methods to study, explain, and predict behavior, psychologists explore such questions as how the brain learns and stores information, what triggers our biological rhythms, aggression, and personality characteristics, how human relationships develop, what leads to judgment and decision-making, how society deals with mental illness and behavioral disorders, and the psychological impact of activities such as work and sports.

Department of Psychology Website More Psychology Courses

A strong liberal arts education with a major in psychology will prepare students for entry into many career fields and graduate/professional programs. The following are some of the fields that graduates with bachelor’s degrees in psychology have entered: administration and management, business and industry, casework, child care, employment interviewing, gerontology, health services, marketing and public relations, personnel, probation and parole, psychiatric assistant, research or laboratory assistant, sales, teaching, and technical writing.

courses you might take:

PSYCH 4998: Undergraduate Research in Psychology

As a psychology student, you have the opportunity to work in a research lab under the supervision of a psychology faculty member. Research experience strengthens an undergraduate degree and is strongly recommended for students interested in pursuing graduate studies in psychology, as well as for students desiring to develop research skills as part of their career preparation. Participation in research opportunities can help you test your interest in research and interact more closely with faculty members who share your interests. Students can earn academic credit for assisting with research by enrolling in Psychology 4998.

PSYCH 3331: Abnormal Psychology

Examination of current theories and empirical findings regarding the major forms of psychopathology and treatment.

PSYCH 4630: Attitudes and Persuasion

Overview of the major psychological theories and research in the area of attitudes and persuasion - how people's opinions, beliefs, and evaluations are formed and modified.

PSYCH 2303: Positive Psychology

Introduction to the field of positive psychology. Topics include positive affect, subjective well-being, optimism, psychological strengths, emotional intelligence, compassion, humor, and spirituality.

PSYCH 4644: Hormones and Behavior

Exploration of the interactions among hormones, brain, and behavior through an integrative approach.

PSYCH 4540: Counseling Psychology

Issues within the field of counseling psychology including assessment, counseling skills, multicultural issues, career, professional and ethical issues.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Psychology 4998: Undergraduate Research in Psychology

As a Psychology student, you have the opportunity to work in a research lab under the supervision of a Psychology faculty member. Research experience strengthens an undergraduate degree and is strongly recommended for students interested in pursuing graduate studies in psychology, as well as for students desiring to develop research skills as part of their career preparation. Participation in research opportunities can help you to test your interest in research and interact more closely with faculty members who share your interests. Students can earn academic credit for assisting with research by enrolling in Psychology 4998.

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Psychology 3191: Internship in Psychology

Internships are important components of a well-rounded study of psychology. In addition to the real-world application of psychology, an internship is an exciting opportunity for you to explore career possibilities, gain hands-on experience, and build a network by meeting people who are working in the specific field matching your career goals. Internships allow you to “try out” a career before deciding if it is the right path for you. Students in Psychology can earn academic credit for their internship experience by enrolling in Psychology 3191 along with their internship.

Internship

Study Abroad: Psychology and Culture in Europe

As a psychology student, you have the opportunity to study abroad in Europe during May Session with other psychology students. The Psychology and Culture in Europe study abroad program offers an opportunity for psychology students to gain a unique perspective on the psychological and cultural significance of European cities.

Study Abroad

Psychology Career, Internship, and Graduate School Fair

All Psychology students are invited to this fair to gather information and talk to organization representatives about volunteer, internship, and entry-level job opportunities for psychology majors. In addition, talk to representatives from psychology graduate programs both within and outside of Ohio State and learn about graduate programs that welcome applications from psychology majors.

School Fair

Stop! And Think!

The Stop! And Think! Film Series is a set of documentary/informational pieces meant to challenge us to think carefully about our world and the culture in which we live. Each film was selected for its relevance to the field of psychology, but also to our everyday lives. We hope to inspire a sense of greater connection to the world and each other with our discussions of the important, provocative, and contemporary issues that impact us all. Each event will include a viewing and discussion of the film.

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