Psychology
Learning about how drugs affect the brain, and how best to treat depression. Designing a research study to determine how people with tattoos are perceived, or how people are affected by social rejection. Helping victims of domestic violence, homeless women, or children with autism. Studying sports psychology in London or environmental psychology in Australia. Spending the summer working with a faculty member as part of the Summer Research Fellowship Program. These are just some of the many experiences you can have as a Psychology major at Misericordia University.
The Psychology Department offers both a major and minor in psychology. Students who complete all major requirements receive a Bachelor's of Science (BS) in Psychology. Since our department and class sizes are small, faculty will get to know you and provide you with individualized attention and mentoring.
The psychology department also offers a mental health interventions specialization (21 credits) for students interested in pursuing mental health careers. Students can choose either a child or adult track, depending on the population with which they are interested in working.
Dr. Alicia Nordstrom Podcast on The Academic Minute
Reducing Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Stigma through Real-Life Stories
Why do we hate and fear people that we have never even met?
This is the question that Dr. Alicia Nordstrom, professor and chair of Psychology, explored during her recent 2 1/2 minute podcast on The Academic Minute. It was entitled "Reducing Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Stigma through Real-Life Stories".
Dr. Nordstrom was one of five Misericordia professors from the College of Arts & Sciences that were featured during Misericordia University Week on The Academic Minute, a WAMC National Production.
The Academic Minute features researchers from colleges and universities around the world, keeping listeners abreast of what's new and exciting in the academy and of all the ways academic research contributes to solving the world's toughest problems and to serving the public good.
Zippia Interview with Dr. Alicia Nordstrom
Dr. Alicia Nordstrom was one of several professors and experts interviewed by Zippia, The Career Expert.
Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends - Q & A
- In your opinion, what are the biggest trends we'll see in the job market given the pandemic?
- What skills stand out on resumes?
- Are there any particularly good places in the United States for graduates to find work opportunities in this field after they graduate?
In your opinion, what are the biggest trends we'll see in the job market given the pandemic?
What skills stand out on resumes?
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for graduates to find work opportunities in this field after they graduate?
Since the field of psychology is exceedingly diverse and career options within the field are numerous, we provide students with a solid background in the methods, theories, and content of the discipline of psychology, while also allowing them the flexibility to tailor a program of study that best meets their individual interests and career goals. All students are expected to develop essential skills in: critical thinking, writing, oral communication, research, and cultural competency.
Students completing the BS in Psychology prior to entering the entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program will complete the requirements as stated in the University catalog.
Psychology majors can elect to complete a 21-credit specialization in Mental Health Interventions (with a Child or Adult focus or both). This program reflects students' mastery of normal and abnormal processes surrounding mental health disorders and their treatment. Both the adult and child tracks include coursework on normal development, psychopathology and interventions for psychological disorders.
The psychology minor can be a meaningful adjunct to any major, but is especially pertinent to the study and practice of education, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, business administration, and social work. Focusing on the origins, development, modification, and implications of human behavior, the study of psychology has numerous applications to personal and professional life.
Program Options
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- B.S. in Psychology
- Pre-DPT Specialization
- Mental Health Interventions Specialization
- Minor in Psychology
Overview and Highlights
- Our Curriculum, based on *American Psychological Association guidelines, provides a basic foundation in the content and methods of psychology while allowing the flexibility to pursue your unique interest, including minors, specializations, and study abroad.
- Career preparation courses help you identify career goals and plan for graduate study or diverse employment opportunities.
- "Real word" experience is required - you will complete a practicum (internship) as part of your major.
- Research opportunities are available- you can participate in a group, independent, and/or faculty-led project.
- A Mental Health Interventions Specialization (Child or Adult focus) provides integrated coursework that prepares you or human services positions or clinically-focused graduate programs.
- Experienced faculty are experts in their field of study.
- Small interactive classes focus not only on content but on writing skills, speaking skills, critical thinking and problem solving skills, research skills, and cultural competency.
*The American Psychological Association (APA) is the world's largest association of psychologists, with more than 117,500 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students as its members.
Research Opportunities
"Real World" Experience
Flexible Curriculum
Student Testimonials
It Starts At The Arch
Emily Connell
Emily Connell
I am confident that I made the right decision to be a psychology major at Misericordia. I always felt supported by my professors and know that they were truly invested in helping me to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom.
Gabrielle Belles '18
Gabrielle Belles '18
The psychology program at Misericordia provides each student with endless opportunities. The professors want you to succeed in every aspect of life and will help guide you towards the right decisions.
Zachary Davis
Zachary Davis
The Psychology department at Misericordia University has helped me realize a deeper potential. The one-on-one experience I had with my psychology professors has helped me feel more welcomed and comfortable, and is an experience that I feel cannot be matched.
Career Preparation
Career Courses
In their first year, students take a required 1-credit course introducing them to the discipline of psychology and career options within psychology. During their sophomore year, students take a required 2-credit course which focuses more explicitly on individual career selection, culminating in a written academic plan that addresses career goals.
Graduate School Prep Courses
Students planning to pursue graduate study can take a 2-course sequence of graduate school preparation courses during their junior and senior years (1 credit). These courses assist students in: choosing appropriate graduate programs to which to apply; preparing for GRE examinations and admissions interviews; and developing a portfolio of graduate admissions materials, including personal statements, curriculum vitae, and requests for recommendations.
Academic Advising
Academic advising is another critical part of career planning and preparation. Students meet with their advisors at least once per semester to discuss academic and career planning. Close relationships are built between students and advisors, and students are encouraged to meet with their advisors whenever they need assistance or advice.
Student Opportunities
Contact
For more information about the Psychology program, please contact Dr. Alicia Nordstrom, Psychology Department Chair, at anordstrom@misericordia.edu or (570) 674-8008.