Department of Psychology

Department Head: Taylor
Professors: Hanchon, Lassiter, Matthews, Nida, Taylor
Associate Professors: Fernald, Sawyer, Macdonald, Parrish
Assistant Professors: Dawes, Eddy

The major in psychology is designed around a broad liberal education whereby the humanities and the sciences are integrated through an emphasis on the study of human behavior. Students in psychology develop an approach to learning based on empirical, objective methodology and statistical data analysis. These skills enhance critical thinking and permit theory construction and analysis. Students who graduate from this program are expected to have the knowledge base and the data analysis skills to support graduate study in any of the specialty areas of psychology. They also should be well prepared for employment in positions that require understanding and motivating others. Examples of such employment areas include positions in personnel work, social service and mental health agencies, law enforcement, sales, and business.

The major in psychology aligns with the American Psychological Association Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major 3.0 (2013). The structure of the psychology major fits with the five main areas of focus advocated by the guidelines: 1) emphasis on the basic knowledge of concepts in the discipline in psychology; 2) emphasis on scientific methods and critical thinking; 3) emphasis on ethics, social responsibility, and diversity; 4) emphasis on effective communication skills; and 5) emphasis on professional development.

Courses for Majors in Other Disciplines and Other Psychology Dept. Programs

Elective courses – The department also offers elective courses to majors in other academic disciplines.

Psychology Club – The Department of Psychology also sponsors the Psychology Club, which is open to all students interested in the study of human behavior regardless of their major. The club seeks to stimulate and maintain interest in scholarship and service and to promote closer social and intellectual association among students.

Psi Chi, the national honor society in Psychology, has a Citadel chapter open to undergraduate majors or minors with a 3.000 average who rank in the top third of their class. Psi Chi activities promote scholarship and research that prepare students for graduate school or other future endeavors in psychology.

Graduate Degree Programs – The Department of Psychology offers graduate degree programs leading to the Ed.S. degree in School Psychology and the M.A. in Psychology: Clinical Counseling.

Early Admission to the M.A. for Current Students – Currently enrolled Citadel undergraduate students may apply for early admission into the MA in Psychology: Clinical Counseling Program. All regular admission qualifications must be met for the application to be reviewed. Any applicant not granted with an early admission will automatically be included in the regular admission cycle.

Programs

Majors

Psychology Major

Minors

Psychology Minor

Courses

Psychology