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
Krister Copeland ’21 Performs a Balancing Act
December 05, 2019 | 3 p.m.
Addressing Mental Health in Law Enforcement
September 30, 2019 | 7 a.m.
Bethel Professor’s Research in the News
September 17, 2019 | 10 a.m.
Bethel Welcomes New Faculty to the College of Arts & Sciences
September 06, 2019 | 3 p.m.
Upcoming Events
DEC 10 2019
A SCIENCE AND RELIGION CHRISTMAS
6:15 p.m. Eastlund Room
"What can the arts and sciences teach us about the Christmas Story?"
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.
12
full-time faculty in the department
97%
recent psychology graduates are employed
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.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