The Program’s Purpose
The purpose of the undergraduate programs in psychology is to equip our students to:(1) use the science of psychology as a framework to think critically about the self, others, and the world; (2) successfully pursue employment and advanced studies in psychology and related areas; (3) contribute to a changing and diverse world; (4) establish a professional identity and community.
Goal #1: Know the Science of Psychology
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology provides students a foundation in Psychology: the scientific study of the behavior of individuals and how environmental, physiological, cognitive, social, and cultural events influence these behaviors. The UCA Psychology program teaches the major theories, concepts, and techniques associated with modern psychology. Understanding psychological science entails recognizing the cultural, historical, and social context of the science and its development.
Goal #2: Think critically about the self, others, and the world
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology strengthens critical thinking: the active, intentional process of evaluating information and personal opinions, thoughts, and experiences through systematic analysis, synthesis of evidence from divergent sources, problem identification, problem-solving, inference, evaluation, and the consideration of empirical data. Critical thinking informs and influences individual actions, beliefs, and decisions in a way that can improve the human condition.
Goal #3: Successfully pursue employment and advanced studies
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology prepares students to meet their personal and professional vocational goals by pursuing advanced training opportunities, including graduate degrees in psychology and related fields, and by helping program graduates develop needed skills for success in the workplace and advanced training programs.
Goal #4: Contribute to a changing and diverse world
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology equips students to be more ethical, just, equitable, considerate of diversity, and inclusive in their personal and professional interactions in the local and global community.
Goal #5: Establish a Professional Network and Community
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology provides students opportunities and skills to establish meaningful personal and professional connections with classmates, faculty, staff, and the broader UCA and Conway community. Psychology majors are encouraged to begin developing connections with their future professional communities.