Psychology Department

Undergraduate Study

The undergraduate program in Psychology is designed to meet the needs of three classes of students: (1) those who wish a sound background in the study of the Biological, Social-Personality, and Developmental foundations of behavior; (2) those who wish to acquire a thorough undergraduate training in psychology as majors, in anticipation of doing graduate study in the field; and (3) those who wish a basic understanding of human behavior as a supplement to some other major field of concentration.

As is true throughout Boston College, the Psychology Department offers a wide range of courses and opportunities, which number many more than any one student can experience. The real task is selecting from among the many options in a way that provides the best possible education.

The most important preparation for what follows is realizing that, ultimately, you are the person most responsible for your education. Many people and many documents will offer suggestions, but in almost all cases you will make the final decisions.

Undergraduate Admissions
Linden Lane with Gasson Hall in the background.
  In selecting students, we look for academic ability, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, motivation, creativity, energy, and promise for personal growth and development. more...
The Psychology Major
A female student studying in Bapst Library.
  Use empirical information to evaluate a claim, break down a complex problem into its component parts, communicate your ideas effectively: Major in psychology for a special combination of intellectual skills. more...
Research Opportunities
A male student in a lab.
  By talking to other students in the department, as well as to the faculty, you will learn about on-going research projects and about the current interests of faculty members. more...
Academic Opportunities
A female student doing some research.
  From fellowships to coursework in “neighboring” departments: ten suggestions for making the most of a psychology major. more...
The Psychology Honors Program
A female student doing some research.
  Not the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, but a challenging course of study for Psychology majors. more...
Biopsychology Concentration
Biopsychology
  The Biopsychology Concentration allows students to engage in coursework and research that will provide them with a strong understanding of the biological bases of behavior and mental function. more...
Applying to Graduate Schools
A female student doing some research.
  Here is some general advice for undergraduates, who are thinking of applying to a graduate school. more...
BA/MA Program
A female student doing some research.
  The BA/MA Program is designed to allow selected students to earn both a BA and an MA in Psychology in five years. more...
PSI CHI

 

Psi Chi is the National Honor Society in Psychology. more...
Contact Cecile Morvan for membership information at BC: cecile.morvan.1@bc.edu