Department of Psychology

Program Chair - Dr. George M. Diekhoff

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the study of human behaviors like aggression, work and sports performance, and coping under stress; as well as mental processes like attitudes, beliefs, memory, emotions, and thoughts.

Questions Psychologists Ask

1. Which mental disorders are inherited and which come from life experiences?
2. What is intelligence and how can intelligence be measured?
3. What motivates people to perform more effectively at work?
4. How do people develop attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes?
5. How can people study and learn more effectively?
6. How do people develop the personality they have?
7. What is typical of the developing person through the lifespan?
8. How is abnormal behavior defined?
9. What are the most effective ways to help people change?
10. What is the influence of physiology on human behavior and mental processes?

Undergraduate Mission Statement

The Midwestern State University Department of Psychology is committed to the principles of an undergraduate liberal arts education.  We provide a learning environment that encourages an exchange between students and faculty in small classes and outside of the classroom.  Students are led to view themselves and the world from a psychological perspective.

We believe in the value of preparing students for a life of productive work, interpersonal and social responsibility, and continued learning.  We believe further that these goals are best accomplished by providing educational opportunities that emphasize the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and values that will enable students to find their place in the working world, contribute to their local and global communities, and continue the learning process throughout their lives.

The psychology department engages students in a variety of educational and social activities that will engender:  (1) the acquisition of a broad knowledge base of psychology; (2) an understanding of research methods in psychology; (3) the ability to think critically; (4) the ability to use technology: (5) the ability to communicate effectively, and (6) the effective pursuit of post-baccalaureate education, career, or other opportunities.

Career Opportunities

With the Bachelor's degree in psychology, the graduate may find employment in a wide number of occupations and fields, including, but not limited to:

Probation officer

Rehabilitation counselor

Intake counselor

Corporate consultant

Marketing

Advertising

Director of social services agency

Substance abuse counseling

Intake counselor

Case manager

Public relations

Sales

Human Resources

With Master's and Doctoral degrees, students may pursue a career in such areas as:

Psychological assessment and therapy

Experimental research

Sports psychology

College professor

Industrial/organizational psychology

Health psychology

School psychology