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Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Advance Your Career in Human Behavior and Health

The Psychology program at WSU Vancouver prepares students for high-demand careers through foundational coursework, scientific inquiry, and hands-on professional development. As a premier student resource, the program hosts the Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree and the Bachelor of Arts in Social Science: Personnel Psychology and Human Resource degree. The Bachelor of Science in Psychology provides a strong scientific background in understanding the human mind and behavior. Students learn in small, discussion-driven classes where faculty members know them by name and actively mentor their academic growth. This comprehensive approach provides a versatile background for graduates entering fields such as human resources, education, sales, government service, and the service or health industries.

At WSU Vancouver, students access distinct academic resources rarely available at larger public universities. Small class sizes foster personalized learning environments where faculty members actively welcome undergraduate students to collaborate on current research projects. Through this hands-on research, applied learning, and close collaboration with professors and peers, students build both confidence and practical experience in the science of behavior. These opportunities prepare graduates for careers across health, business, and government, while also serving as a launchpad for graduate study, clinical practice, and advanced research. The structured curriculum balances breadth of knowledge, requiring core courses in statistics and research methodology alongside specialized options in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, social and organizational psychology, and clinical and counseling psychology.

More information

Prospective Students

Find your personal admission counselor
Email Address van.admissions@wsu.edu
Phone (360) 546-9788

Current Students

Email Address van.casadvising@wsu.edu
LocationCollege of Arts and Sciences
Phone (360) 546-9620

What will you do with a psychology degree?

As a psychology major, you’ll examine behavior from biological, cognitive, social, and developmental perspectives. Coursework emphasizes research methods, data literacy, and ethical practice, helping you build a strong foundation in how psychological knowledge is created and used.

  • Analyze human behavior using scientific research methods and data-driven reasoning.
  • Apply psychological theory to clinical, health, social, and organizational contexts.
  • Communicate insights ethically and effectively through writing, presentations, and collaboration.

My experience as a psychology student has been nothing short of life-changing. The support and dedication of the professors, the enthusiasm of my peers, and the depth of the education have far exceeded my expectations. The connections I have formed, the opportunities I have been afforded, and the meaningful conversations I have shared all serve to strengthen my passion for the field and my commitment to continuing this journey.

Psychology student, WSU Vancouver

Life as a psychology student at WSU Vancouver

Psychology at WSU Vancouver is shaped by close collaboration between students and faculty. With smaller class sizes than many psychology programs, you’ll have frequent opportunities to ask questions, engage in discussion, and work directly with professors on research and applied projects.

Student Life

Learn by doing research

Many students contribute to ongoing faculty research or design their own independent studies, gaining experience with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Apply psychology in real settings

Through internships, community-engaged learning, and practicum experiences, you can explore psychology in clinical, health, educational, and organizational environments.

Connect beyond the classroom

Psych Club and other student organizations provide ways to connect with peers, explore career interests, and develop leadership experience.

Careers with a psychology degree

A BS in Psychology develops skills that translate across industries. Graduates pursue careers in areas such as:

  • Counseling, social services, and behavioral health
  • Public health and healthcare
  • Human resources
  • Public policy and community programs
  • Education

You’ll graduate with experience in critical thinking, research literacy, communication, and professional ethics—skills that employers and graduate programs consistently seek.

Career Action Center