Psychology Major

Major Degree Options

Iowa State psychology offers two undergraduate degree options. Our advising team can talk with you about your academic and career interests and help you decide which option is the best fit for you.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree is the traditional academic route and requires additional courses in math and natural sciences beyond the Iowa State University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences General Education requirements. Completion of a minor or additional major is optional.

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree requires completion of a minor or additional major.

Students earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology will have achieved several specific learning goals that focus on knowledge, research, ethics, and science communication. These goals follow the recommendations of the American Psychological Association.

Please see the course catalogue for more information about the psychology major.

Double Majors

Many students combine their psychology degree with another major (26%) or a minor (56%). These students often complete courses in the following fields:

A psychology degree is excellent preparation for pre-professional paths. Students can go on to law school, medical school or professional programs such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreational therapy or other health-related careers.

Please Note:

  • Double major: All Psych Departmental requirements must be completed.
  • Double degree: All LAS and Psych Departmental requirements must be completed as well as an additional 30 credits
  • Students must meet ALL Iowa State University and College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and Psychology requirements to complete their degree, with assistance from their adviser.
  • A total of 120 credits is required.
  • A total of 45 credits at the 300-400 level is required.
  • A cumulative 2.00 GPA is required
  • The student is responsible for meeting requirements, registering on time and reading their ISU student email.

Learning Community

The Psychology Learning Community provides an environment where psychology majors can make connections with each other and with department faculty. Learning community students experience the benefits of a small college environment while enjoying the excitement and advantages of attending a major university. The Psychology Freshman Learning Community offers a year long learning community experience for first year psychology majors. The Psychology Transfer Learning Community is a semester-long experience for incoming transfer students with a psychology major.

Health Coach Certificate

Psychology majors with interests in food science, human nutrition and kinesiology may complete the Health Coach Certificate, which provides students with a foundation in nutrition, exercise, and motivational coaching.

Scholarships and Awards

The Psychology Department offers several scholarships and awards to psychology majors: Alison Morris Memorial Scholarship, Jane Ross-Reynolds Memorial Scholarship, Kenneth Sufka Undergraduate Scholarship, Travel Award, and Psychology Poster Competition Award. Psychology majors may also apply for scholarships and awards offered through the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.

Questions?

Contact the Psychology Advising Office.