Learn to ask “why?” Then explore some answers to that question.
Bethel’s department of psychology challenges you to look at the hows and whys of mental processes and behaviors. But we don’t just do it through textbooks. Our professors help students apply complex principles to everyday life, and integrate a Christian perspective with current psychological science.
Majors, Minors, and Programs
| Neuroscience | Major | ||
| Psychology | Major | Minor |
Recent News
Why We Teach
September 06, 2018 | 2 p.m.
Melia Cerrato ’09 Embodies Servant Leadership
August 29, 2018 | 3:30 p.m.
A Foundation for Giving
July 26, 2018 | 4 p.m.
Commencement 2018: College of Arts & Sciences
May 29, 2018 | Noon
Upcoming Events
NOV 1 2018
6:30 p.m. Benson Great Hall
Free community forum focused on substance use prevention
NOV 29 2018
11:15 a.m. University Library Fireside Lounge
Edgren Scholars share their research
Ask “why?” and then study how the human mind works and why people behave the way they do.
Explore motivation and behavior and get hands-on experience in researching your questions and theories. Learn to integrate your learning with your Christian faith and discover relevant concepts in the history and theory of psychology, the principles of cognition and behavior, and techniques of research and interpretation of data. Then take what you’re learning and apply it through a practical internship in places like counseling offices, hospitals, corporations, churches, and other settings tailored to your interests, passions, and career goals.
160
psychology majors
Up to 50%
recent psychology alumni went on to graduate school
Program Highlights
Research with professors
Our accomplished faculty members often give students opportunities to collaborate in their research, in cutting-edge fields such as neuroscience. Many of our students present their research at regional and national conferences.
Experiential learning
Senior capstone experiences, either an internship or intensive research, provide practical opportunities, giving Bethel’s psychology students an advantage when entering careers or graduate schools.
Relevant certificates
Bethel offers optional certificates in addiction studies or alcohol and drug counseling, which you can complete as an undergraduate.International travel
Study in Europe to learn about the European pioneers of psychology and broaden your understanding of the field.
New neuroscience major
Our recently launched neuroscience major is an interdisciplinary major offered by the biology and psychology departments and includes chemistry, mathematics, and related courses. This intensely research-focused program will prepare you for competitive graduate and medical schools and success in emerging careers in the growing field of neuroscience.
Formative opportunities in research, clinical experience, career clarity, and preparedness to contribute to integration of psychology and Christianity movement, have all impacted my continuing education. Faculty taught me how to be a Christian scholar and fully engaged in my community.
Ryan Horvis '09Current job: Clinical Therapist at Stenzel Clinical Services, Ltd. and Outpatient Therapist at Streamwood Behavioral Health Systems
Bethel's psychology program is designed to meet graduate study admission requirements. Writing lab reports and psychological evaluations and presenting at conferences helped set my skills far above my peers, even in my rigorous Master of Science program.
Holly Quimby '13Grad school: Student at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
What can I do with a psychology major?
Psychology majors at Bethel prepare for careers in the helping professions or for graduate study. They become counselors, school psychologists, behavior therapists, and other specialists in the helping professions and more.
Careers
Psychology graduates are:
- Counselors
- Psychology professors
- Clinical neuropsychologists
- Organizational psychologists
- School psychologists
- Statisticians
- Physical therapists
- Physicians and dentists
- School administrators
- Speech Pathologists
- Behavior Therapists
Graduate Schools
Our alumni attend:
- Bethel’s Graduate School or Seminary
- University of Michigan
- Kansas University
- University of Minnesota
- Boston College
- Marquette University
- University of Iowa
- University of Washington
- Southern Illinois University
- University of St. Thomas
- University of St. Mary’s
Graduate Fields
Our alumni study:
- Counseling psychology
- Marriage and family therapy
- School psychology
- Psychometrics
- Clinical psychology
- Neuropsychology
- Developmental psychology
- Social psychology
- Physical or occupational therapy
- Speech pathology
- Special education
- Medical school
- Physician assistant