Have you ever wondered why people do what they do? Why they buy what they buy, vote how they vote, or behave in their own unique way? If so, then you have been pondering the same questions that have occupied psychologists for the last hundred years. Psychology is concerned with understanding the human mind, both in terms of biology, but also in terms of cognition. Psychologists study how the brain functions and how those mental functions connect to behavior. But psychologists are not just counselors. In fact, there are numerous potential jobs for individuals who are interested in studying psychology, from the more traditional work of the counselor or social worker to jobs in advertising, sales, education, and even politics. That's because understanding how people behave isn't just about understanding the struggles that individuals may be dealing with, it can also open up avenues for predicting behavior and tailoring a sales pitch that is appealing to a customer. For people interested in the more traditional occupations, there are several occupations that are expected to grow much faster than the average of all occupations, including marriage and family therapists, clinical psychologists, school psychologists, and counselors. In fact, marriage and family therapist positions are expected to grow by 23% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is well above the 6% average. MFT's make around $50,000 per year on average, which is also above the average median salary for all occupations. If you are thinking about entering the broad field of psychology, then check out our list of the 50 Best Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology!
Why Become a Psychologist?
The field of psychology brings together various natural and social sciences and quantitative and computational methods to help psychologists analyze and understand both the inner workings of the mind, but also the cognitive functions of the brain, and how both of those inform human behavior. Career opportunities, therefore, are vast, and individuals who study psychology can choose to enter into scientific fields, counseling fields, and even advertising and marketing. Generally, the most lucrative careers are in the fields of health care or business.
For instance, individuals with a background in psychology in health care related occupations can often make as much as $106,250 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Psychological expertise can also be useful if you are interested in going into criminal justice careers. Forensic psychologists, for instance, offer psychological assessments of individuals involved with the legal system. The job growth in this arena is also robust, with expectations that the sector will grow by 14%, which is above the 6% average for all occupations. Whatever your interest, a degree in psychology can open a lot of doors because in most programs you learn how to communicate effectively, how to understand human behavior, and how to navigate interpersonal relationships – all of which are skills that will serve you well no matter what career path you choose to take!
How to Choose a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
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#50. Northwestern University – Evanston, IL
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $ 54,568
Score: 74.70
Unique Features
Northwestern University is a medium-sized private research university located north of Chicago in Evanston, IL. NU is well-known for its research output and includes Nobel Prize laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and other award winners among its faculty and alumni. The School of Professional Studies offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology to interested students. The program is geared for part-time students who want to pursue their degree taking night courses. Students take some introductory-level courses, including one in statistics, as well as at least five upper-level courses in the major. Classes in the major include Psychology Tests and Measures, Psychology of Gender, and Psychopathology. Students can also choose to take an Independent Study course in an area where there are no courses offered, and there are research opportunities that are curated by the Office of Undergraduate Research that interested persons are encouraged to explore and apply for.
#49. University of Notre Dame – Notre Dame, IN
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $ 53,391
Score: 75.03
Unique Features
One of the best known Roman Catholic universities in the world, the University of Notre Dame is located in Notre Dame, IN, near South Bend, and is a mid-sized private research institution. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology which seeks to balance a grounding in the major theories and research methods of psychology, with an eye towards its application in fields like aging, developmental disabilities, and childhood education. The program has three required courses and then an additional seven in upper-level courses. Classes in the major include Child & Adolescent Psychopathology, Introduction to Clinical Psychology, and Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience. The DP also allows any student to undertake a Senior Thesis project under the guidance of a faculty person, allowing students to take a year to research and write about a significant issue or question in the field. Generally, the Senior Thesis is completed by the second semester of senior year. The DP also sponsors the Psychology Club and Psi Chi, the National Honor Society in Psychology. Participating in these groups offers additional co-curricular and professional development opportunities for students in the program.
#48. University of Tennessee – Knoxville, TN
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $13,006 in-state; $31,426 out-of-state
Score: 75.54
Unique Features
Located in Knoxville, in eastern Tennessee, the University of Tennessee is a large public research university. UT annually enrolls over 28,000 students in its numerous programs. The Department of Psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Entrance to the program requires the completion of several prerequisites with a grade of ‘C' or higher, including classes in statistics, biology, and an intro course on psychology. Once in the program students take a total of 30 credits, 21 of which must be at the upper-level. Students can take classes like Evolutionary Psychology and Ethology, Foundations of Behavioral Neuroscience, and Theories of Personality. Students can also take some classes in sociology and social work and have them count in the major. There are an additional three credits that students can take in electives, and the department strongly urges students to consider courses in neuroscience. The size of the major makes completing a minor relatively easy, and even a second major may be possible. Qualified students can also apply to participate in the Honors Concentration which provides additional individualized mentoring for those involved.
#47. Emory University – Atlanta, GA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $51,306
Score: 75.65
Unique Features
Emory University is located in Atlanta, GA and is a private research university with an annual student enrollment of over 15,000. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology which consists of a total of 12 courses. The program includes four foundational courses which are aimed at introducing students to quantitative theories and methods, laboratory research, and the basics of behavioral science. Students then take the remainder of their courses in three broad areas, including Social, Personality, and Applied, Neuroscience and Animal Behavior, and Cognition and Development. Classes in the program include Psychology of Family Relationships, Neural Basis of Learning and Memory, and Human Learning and Memory. There are also five electives in the major. The DP also offers a series of 4+1 degree options in conjunction with the Laney Graduate School, the Law School, and the Rollins School of Public Health. Students can also take advantage of the many centers and institutes located at EU, including the Center for Mind, Brain, and Culture which is an interdisciplinary center exploring cognitive and social interaction.
#46. University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, PA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $19,080 in-state; $32,052 out-of-state
Score: 76.19
Unique Features
A state-related research university, the University of Pittsburgh enrolls over 28,000 students annually. Individuals can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Psychology through the Department of Psychology at UP. The program offers rigorous training in research and analytical methods, while also allowing students to explore the broader discipline of psychology. To declare the major, students must have completed a required introductory course, a course in statistics, and must be enrolled in a research methods course. Overall the degree consists of 34-35 credits and is a collection of required and elective courses, many of which must be taken at the upper-level. Classes in the program include Introduction to Neuroscience, Psychology of Personality, and Tests and Measurements. Students can also apply for a Directed Research course, or an Internships or Directed Reading course. These options allow students to explore areas that are either not offered in traditional courses, or to deepen their knowledge of a subject that they have already encountered. Diversity is a key value of the DP and undergraduates can participate in and contribute to the Psychology Committee on Equity, Inclusion, and Community as part of their co-curricular activities.
#45. Vanderbilt University – Nashville, TN
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $49,816
Score: 76.93
Unique Features
Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN, and is a private research university with an annual student population of over 12,000. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. In both cases, the major is 36 credit hours and includes required courses in broad-based topics like Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, or Neuroscience, as well as electives in areas where students may want to focus their study. Every student is required to take a comprehensive exam during their senior year which is meant to determine the level of mastery students have in basic psychological concepts. Students can also participate in research opportunities in the department. There are three broad areas where faculty focus their research including Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience, and Clinical Science. The DP offers an Honors Program in Psychology as well, which consists of 42 credits and is ideal for highly motivated students. The DP also offers a combined BA and Master of Arts in Psychology program. This can be completed within five years and is designed for individuals who are seriously considering and already committed to pursuing doctoral level work in the field.
#44. University of Kansas – Lawrence, KS
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of General Studies in Psychology
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Tuition: $11,148 in-state; $27,358 out-of-state
Score: 77.02
Unique Features
The University of Kansas is located in Lawrence, KS and is a public research university with an annual enrollment of over 28,000 students. The Psychology Department at the UK offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of General Education in Psychology. Both degrees require 37 credits total, but the BGE requires students to pursue a minor, while the BA requires students to pursue four semesters of a second language. Students can take classes from a wide variety of perspectives including courses like Abnormal Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Stereotyping and Prejudice Across Cultures. KU also offers a research-intensive Honors program which interested individuals are encouraged to explore. Other opportunities for research also available in a variety of labs run by faculty, including the Health Behavior and Technology Lab, the Spoken Language Laboratory, and Cognitive-Clinical Lab. The DP also regularly hosts events connected with various student groups like Psi Chi, where students can gain additional co-curricular and professional development experiences.
#43. University of Texas at Austin – Austin, TX
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $10,610 in-state; $37,580 out-of-state
Score: 77.04
Unique Features
The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas system and is a large public research university with an annual student body of over 50,000. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Both degrees require 21 credits but distribute them differently. In the BS degree, students take classes in areas like Clinical Psychology, Neuroscience, and Perceptual Psychology. The BS degree is particularly well suited for students who are heading into medical school. The BA degree is better suited for students who are planning to enter into the workforce or who may want to pursue a degree in law or social work. There are five different student associations connected to the DP, including the Association of Black Psychologists Student Circle, the Multicultural Psychology Club, and the Women in Psychology club. Each of these offers different opportunities for students to grow and develop outside the classroom. Additionally, the DP also holds regular seminars and invites leaders in the field to campus to give talks on the latest developments in psychology.
#42. University of California, San Diego – San Diego, CA
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $14,167 in-state; $43,159 out-of-state
Score: 77.20
Unique Features
Known as a large public research university, the University of California, San Diego is a diverse and thriving community of over 38,000 annually enrolled students. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. UCSD operates on a quarter system and students are required to take a mixture of upper and lower division courses. The BA requires a total of 76 credits, and the BS requires 88 credits. Courses in the program include Psychology of Food and Behavior, Industrial Organizational Psychology, as well as Drugs, Addiction, and Mental Disorders. The BS also offers several concentrations including Developmental, Cognitive, and Clinical, among others. Research areas in the department include Cognitive Psychology, Social Psychology, and Sensation & Perception, among others, and there are opportunities for undergraduates to participate. The DP offers several experiential learning opportunities including internships, teaching assistantships, study abroad courses, and the UC/DC program which includes internships and coursework in Washington, DC. The DP also regularly sponsors undergraduate workshops that students can participate in, including career counseling among many others.
#41. Brown University – Providence, RI
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $55,466
Score: 77.32
Unique Features
Brown University is located in Providence, RI and is an Ivy League research university with an annual student enrollment of over 10,000. The Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences at BU offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Both programs are configured around three pillars: understanding neural and cognitive mechanisms, understanding the evolutionary and biological foundations of behavior, and gaining insight into the social dimension of individual and group dynamics. The BA program requires 12 courses, while the BS requires 17, which includes one additional lab course, and four science courses. Classes in the program include Evolution and Development of the Brain, Behavioral Neuroscience: Introduction to Biological Psychiatry, and Cognitive Control Functions of the Prefrontal Cortex, among many others. Faculty in the DCLPS conduct research in nine discrete areas, and students are often invited to join in the work. Areas of research include Phonetics & Phonology, Neural/Computational Models of Mind, Brain & Behavior, and Psycholinguistics & Language Processing. The department also sponsors a Colloquium Series which brings leading thinkers, academics, and practitioners to campus to speak about the most cutting issues in the field.
#40. Rice University – Houston, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $47,350
Score: 77.37
Unique Features
Located in Houston, TX, Rice University is a well-known private research university with an annual student population of over 7,000. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program is designed to give students a solid foundation in the research methods, theories, and the application of psychology. The program includes 15 courses which include core requirements in statistics, methods, and introductory courses in a variety of psychological sub-disciplines like social psychology and cognitive psychology. Faculty in the department regularly conducts research in areas like Psychometrics and Quantitative Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and Human-Computer Interaction and Human Factors. Students can get involved in research with professors in these and other fields. The DPS regularly hosts colloquia where they invite in experts from around the country to discuss their work in areas like neuroscience or cognitive and social psychology. There is also a commitment to interdisciplinarity at RU, and faculty from other departments like Biochemistry and Economics are invited in to present research so that students can see the interconnections between disciplines and the potential applications of their study of psychology.
#39. Pennsylvania State University – University Park, PA
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $18,454 in-state; $34,858 out-of-state
Score: 77.48
Unique Features
A state-related, research university, Pennsylvania State University is based in University Park, PA, though they have campuses located around the state. PSU offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology through the Department of Psychology. The BS requires 50 credits, while the BA requires 47. In each program, students take prescribed courses as well as electives. Some of the classes in the program include Psychology as a Science and Profession, Elementary Statistics in Psychology, and Neurological Bases of Human Behavior. Students in the BS program can also choose to pursue a Neuroscience concentration, which is particularly useful for anyone considering going on to medical school. Admission to the program requires a 2.0 GPA and the completion of introductory courses in psychology and statistics. PSU also offers an integrated five-year BS and Master of Science in Human Resources to interested individuals. The program allows students who are interested in moving into the business sector, or any sector where human resources is a need, to integrate their study of psychology with management theories and practices.
#38. Ohio University – Athens, OH
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $12,192 in-state; $21,656 out-of-state
Score: 77.70
Unique Features
Ohio University has a long and venerable history, having been the first university chartered by an Act of Congress in 1787. OU is a public research university with an annual enrollment of over 20,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Students are schooled in the theories, research methods, and application of those methods and theories to a variety of situations. Individuals are required to complete 35 credits worth of courses. Classes include Child and Adolescent Psychology, Physiological Psychology, and Cognitive Psychology. Faculty regularly conduct research in seven broad areas including Clinical Child Psychology, Clinical Psychology, and Cognitive Psychology, and there are several clinics and laboratories where students can participate in such research. These include the Center for Intervention Research, Laboratory for the Study and Prevention of Sexual Assault, and Psychotherapy & Interpersonal Process Lab. The DP also sponsors the Psychology Club and the local chapter of Psi Chi, where students can participate in a variety of events and activities that will enrich their experience. Admitted students are also encouraged to explore the scholarships that the department oversees to help make their education affordable.
#37. University of Chicago – Chicago, IL
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $58,230
Score: 78.32
Unique Features
The University of Chicago is a leading private research university with an annual student enrollment of over 16,000. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The degree program includes some initial prerequisites in typical topics like statistics, and then students are required to take courses across a variety of areas including developmental psychology, biological psychology, and social psychology, among others. Students also take six additional electives in the major. Classes in the program include Human Development and Research Design, Neuroscience of Communication, and Political Psychology: Rallies, Riots, & Revolutions. Students are also encouraged to pursue a research project under the guidance of a faculty member. To facilitate this work, UC and the DP offers access to research and travel grants. As a component of the program, the DP offers various professional development opportunities in the form of colloquia where experts are brought in from outside UC, as well as events meant to connect students with one another and with faculty members.
#36. University of Florida – Gainesville, FL
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $6,381 in-state; $28,659 out-of-state
Score: 78.48
Unique Features
Located in Gainesville, FL, the University of Florida is the flagship institution of the University of Florida system. UF is a large public research university with an annual enrollment of over 56,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BS program offers three areas of specialization: General Psychology, Behavior Analysis, and Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience. The degree is comprised of 36 credits, as well as supporting coursework in biology, mathematics, and statistics. Classes in the program include Behaviorism in Contemporary Society, Neural Basis of Communication, and Applied Behavior Analysis. Students can also choose an honors track which includes a thesis undertaken with a faculty advisor. Interested students can also choose to pursue a Certification in Behavioral Analysis. Students can get involved in teaching experiences, research experiences, as well as volunteer experiences while in the program. Research opportunities are available in counseling, behavior analysis, and neuroscience, among many others. Students are also encouraged to participate in the Psychology Club where they can gain invaluable co-curricular and professional development experiences. Individual faculty members can also oversee independent study in a variety of areas.
#35. Princeton University – Princeton, NJ
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $50,340
Score: 78.71
Unique Features
A private Ivy League research university, Princeton University is located in Princeton, NJ and has an average annual enrollment of over 8,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, the aim of which is to provide a grounding in the theoretical, methodological, and applicability of psychology. The degree consists of eight courses, as well as three prerequisites. Classes offered include Computational Modeling of Psychological Function, Neuroscience of Social Cognition and Emotion, and Advanced Regression Methods for Psychological Research. Students are strongly encouraged and invited to participate in research labs run by faculty in the department. Areas of research include cognitive dissonance, attitude formation and change, computational, behavioral and neural approaches to learning and decision making, and social cognition, stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination, among many others. During their junior and senior year, students are asked to work on independent research projects which will result in a research paper. The experience aims primarily to deepen student's ability to design, conduct, and report on a research project.
#34. University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, PA
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $55,584
Score: 80.04
Unique Features
Located in Philadelphia, PA, the University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League research university with an annual student enrollment of over 10,000. The Department of Psychology is located in the College of Arts and Sciences and offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program is designed in a developmental fashion, as students progress from generalized courses where basic knowledge is imparted to more specific empirical research courses, including a research experience undertaken with department faculty. The total credits for the major are 33, 13 of which come from required courses. Students are required to maintain a 2.0 GPA to graduate from the program. Classes include Personality and Individual Differences, Physiology of Motivated Behaviors, and Cognitive Neuroscience. Individuals with a strong academic profile are also invited to apply for the Honors Program, where students have the opportunity to pursue research in even more depth. Faculty in the DP focus their research in two broad areas: Brain, Cognitive, and Decision Science, and Clinical, Positive, and Social Psychology. Psi Chi also has a local chapter at UP, and offers opportunities for co-curricular activities.
#33. Northeastern University – Boston, MA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $51,522
Score: 80.32
Unique Features
Located in Boston, MA, Northeastern University is an R1 private research university with around 25,000 students annually. NU offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology through the Department of Psychology. The program is broad and has a strong emphasis on acquiring proper research skills. The major is large, requiring 68 credits, which includes not only required and elective courses in the department, but also several courses in supporting areas like the Biological and Chemical Sciences, Human Resource Management and Business, and Child and Adolescent Abnormal Psychology. In the major, students take classes like Psychology of Language, Learning Principles and Behavior Analysis, and Seminar in Psycholinguistics. Because of the large number of supporting areas, the BSP can be easily combined with several other majors for individuals interested in double majoring. Some of the most popular combinations include BSP and Health Science, Criminal Justice, and Computer Science. The DP also offers a 4+1 BSP and Master of Arts in Teaching for students interested in working in educational psychology. Research areas in the department include Behavioral Neuroscience, Cognition, and Perception, among others.
#32. New York University – New York City, NY
Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology
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Tuition: $51,828
Score: 80.36
Unique Features
A large private research university, New York University has an annual enrollment of over 50,000 students. The Department of Applied Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology. The program brings together theory, research, and application to prepare students for a variety of potential future pathways. Individuals can choose between two unique programs. The standard program and the Global Public Health and AP program. The latter brings the combination of theory, research, and application to bear on diverse populations around the world. Students take required courses, and then choose courses from three broad areas, including Social/Community, Clinical/Counseling, and Developmental/Learning. Classes in the major include Women and Mental Health: A Life Cycle Perspective, Sexual Identities Across the Lifespan, and Social Intervention in Schools & Communities, among many others. Students also take a three-sequence set of courses in fieldwork and seminars which provides research contexts for hands-on experiences which are brought together in a portfolio by the end of the degree. These courses span the junior and senior years. The DAP also sponsors several student organizations, as well as an online publication for student work.
#31. Iowa State University – Ames, IA
Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $8,988 in-state; $23,392 out-of-state
Score: 81.43
Unique Features
Iowa State University is located in Ames, IA and is a large public research university with an enrollment of over 34,000 students each year. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The BSP includes additional requirements in mathematics and the sciences, while the BAP requires students to complete a minor or another major as well. In both paths, students take required courses of an introductory nature, as well as statistics and a course in research methodology. Students then take courses in four of six broad areas. The areas include Development Psychology, Social Psychology, and Cognitive Psychology, among others. Classes in the program also include Human Factors in Technology, Abnormal Psychology, and Sensation and Perception. Students who take the BAP path can also double major in several areas, including Sociology, Human Development & Family Studies, and Criminal Justice Studies. Interested individuals can also choose to pursue a Health Coach Certificate while in the program which offers a credential for students looking to go into nutrition, motivational coaching, or exercise.
#30. Yale University – New Haven, CT
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $53,430
Score: 81.60
Unique Features
Yale University is located in New Haven, CT and is a private Ivy League research university with 34,000 students enrolled and one of the largest endowments in the world. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The DP offers various opportunities to study in several subfields, including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, neuroscience, and social psychology. Both degrees require 12 courses, not including the introductory course. The program also includes a Neuroscience track which includes some additional science requirements. Courses in the program include Drugs, Brain, and, Behavior; Language, Literacy, and Play; as well as Psychopharmacology and the Modern Unconscious. YU is also pleased to offer an interdepartmental major in Computer Science and Psychology which brings together various elements from the two disciplines. Faculty regularly bring undergraduates on board their research projects and areas where students can find opportunities including behavioral neuroscience, clinical and child psychology, and developmental psychology, among many others. The university offers unparalleled resources for study and recreation.
#29. Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, PA
Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $55,465
Score: 82.48
Unique Features
Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900, Carnegie Mellon University is located in Pittsburgh, PA, and is a private research university with an annual student enrollment of over 13,000. The Department of Psychology is lodged in the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences and offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The department focuses primarily on three subfields, including cognitive psychology and neuroscience, developmental psychology, and social/personality/health psychology. In each area, students are invited to participate in and contribute to ongoing research. The DP is also involved in a variety of centers and initiatives within the university, including an interdisciplinary brain research initiative, and another which focuses on the science of learning. Computational modeling is also performed through the High-Performance Computing Cluster. Innovative members of the department also hold seminars, including a Pint of Science Festival which was held at a local pizza restaurant. Students came together to hear papers presented by departmental faculty and got the chance to enjoy a fresh pint of beer and a slice of pizza.
#28. University of Arizona – Tucson, AZ
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Psychological Science
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Tuition: $12,467 in-state; $36,366 out-of-state
Score: 82.48
Unique Features
Located in Tucson, AZ, the University of Arizona is a large public research university. UA offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychological Science through the Department of Psychology. The BA requires 33 credits, and students take coursework in three primary areas: Clinical Science, Social-Personality Science, and Cognitive Neuroscience. The BSPS degree is 45 credits and students take additional coursework in research methods, and measurement and statistics. Faculty regularly conduct research in three broad areas: Healthy Minds, Healthy Brains, and Healthy Lives. Students are invited to apply for research opportunities to deepen their own experience in the field. The DP has also worked with other departments and crafted three distinct double major options. One in Psychology and Care, Health & Society Dual Degree, another in Psychology and Law, and a third in Psychology and Neuroscience Cognitive Science. Qualified students can also participate in the more research-intensive Honors Program in psychology which provides even more depth. The Honors Program is ideal for students intending to pursue graduate study in the field.
#27. Ohio State University – Columbus, OH
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $10,726 in-state; $30,742 out-of-state
Score: 83.15
Unique Features
One of the largest universities in the country, Ohio State University is a public research university located in Columbus, OH. OSU regularly enrolls over 61,000 students per year. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The program at OSU requires students to take classes in areas like cognitive psychology, abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, and social psychology. The major consists of 36 credits and students take classes like Introduction to Behavioral Neuroscience, Quantitative and Statistical Methods in Psychology, and Human Motor Control and Learning. Students can also participate in one of over 50 different research projects currently underway at OSU. Research projects engage topics like psychopharmacology, childhood mood disorders, and the neurobiology of learning and memory. Students are also encouraged to take part in events hosted by the department or by the student Psychology Club. Students interested in gaining hands-on experience can also pursue an internship with organizations like Suicide Prevention Services, the American Red Cross, or the Northwest Counseling Services, among many others.
#26. University of Southern California – Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $56,225
Score: 83.98
Unique Features
Located in Los Angeles, CA, the University of Southern California is a private research university with a student body of around 45,000. The Department of Psychology is housed in the Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences and offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program is built around five pillars. The first is a commitment to gaining knowledge of psychological theories. The second is a commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry and critical thinking. Next is a commitment to instilling an ethical core in students who will practice in the field. The last two are training students in good communication skills and helping them to develop themselves professionally. To meet these lofty goals, the DP has designed a 32-credit degree program that is broad-based. Students take classes in a variety of subdisciplines like developmental psychology, and cognitive psychology. Classes in the program include Psychophysiology of Emotion, Stress, Health, and the Mind-Body Connection, as well as Adult Development and Aging. Internships are encouraged and facilitated through partnerships with outside agencies, businesses, and clinical sites.
#25. Michigan State University – East Lansing, MI
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $14,460 in-state; $39,766 out-of-state
Score: 84.33
Unique Features
A public research university, Michigan State University is located in East Lansing, MI, and annually enrolls over 50,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program is large, and there are over 50 faculty working with students, which means not only that students will get access to their professors, but that course offerings will be broad. The degree consists of 31-32 credits, with BS students having additional science requirements. In the College of Social Sciences, where the program is housed, students are also required to complete an interdisciplinary minor like African Studies, Law, Justice, and Public Policy, or Leadership of Organizations, among others. Classes in the program include Developmental Psychology: Adolescence Through Youth, Attitudes and Social Cognition, and Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. Faculty in the DP also oversees research in six broad areas including Behavioral Neuroscience, Ecological/Community Psychology, and Cognition & Cognitive Neuroscience. Students are invited to inquire regarding research opportunities.
#24. Cornell University – Ithaca, NY
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $55,188
Score: 85.33
Unique Features
Cornell University is a private Ivy League research university located in Ithaca, NY. CU offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology through the Department of Psychology. Overall the major is 40 credits with prerequisites included. Students must earn a ‘C-' or higher in all classes in the major for them to count towards graduation. Aside from required core classes, students must also take at least one course in three broad areas, including Social and Personality Psychology, Behavioral and Evolutionary Neuroscience, as well as Perception, Cognition, and Development. This distribution ensures an adequate breadth of knowledge. Courses in the program include Sports Psychology, Psychology and Law, and Better Decisions for Life, Love, and Money. The DP also offers some additional unique program components. For instance, students can concentrate in either behavioral and evolutionary neuroscience, or personality and social psychology. Interested individuals could also choose to pursue a minor in Cognitive Science. There are also ample opportunities to participate in significant research with a faculty mentor and other students.
#23. Stony Brook University – Stony Brook, NY
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $9,625 in-state; $27,295 out-of-state
Score: 85.94
Unique Features
Stony Brook University is part of the State University of New York system and is a public research university with around 26,000 students annually enrolled. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BSP degree is geared for students who are considering going into a scientific or medical field. In both degree's students are required to take courses from five broad disciplinary areas: Clinical and Abnormal Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Cognition and Perception, Social Psychology, and Biopsychology. Classes in the major include Autism Spectrum Disorders, Theories of Personality, and Human Growth and Development in the Educational Context. Faculty in the department oversee research projects in seven broad areas, including Social Inequity, Interpersonal and Intergroup Relations, and Biological & Psychological Aspects of Stress. Undergraduates are routinely recruited to work on research teams with their professors and with other students. The program at SBU is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion. They strive to bring in voices from a variety of backgrounds to create an educational environment where all feel welcome and conversations are enriched through the multiplicity of voices.
#22. University of Colorado – Boulder, CO
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $12,532 in-state; $37,286 out-of-state
Score: 86.64
Unique Features
The flagship institution of the University of Colorado system is located in Boulder, CO. UC is a large public research university with an annual enrollment of over 33,000 students. The Department of Psychology and Neuroscience offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program consists of 36 credits and has prerequisites and supporting coursework as well. Classes in the program include Judgment and Decision Making, Computational Cognitive Neuroscience, and Cognitive Neuroscience/Neuropsychology. Faculty in the department regularly conducts research in six broad areas, including behavioral psychology, cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience, as well as psychiatric and statistical genetics. The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program helps to foster student professional growth by pairing interested students with faculty who walk alongside them as they design a project, write a proposal, conduct research, and analyze data. CU also offers dozens of study abroad courses, many of which are led by faculty members in the DP. These classes allow students to comparatively analyze human behavior and social interaction on a global scale.
#21. University of Georgia – Athens, GA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $11,830 in-state; $30,404 out-of-state
Score: 86.92
Unique Features
The University of Georgia is located in Athens, GA, and is a large public research university with an average enrollment of 38,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The major is comprised of required courses and electives both in the department and outside in disciplines like chemistry, geography, and astronomy. Classes in the program include Physiological and Comparative Psychology, Psychology of Health, and History of Psychology. Students can also choose an emphasis in neuroscience. There are also numerous labs run by faculty for students to get involved with, including the Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, the Cultural Evolution and Optimal Experience, and the Visual Perception Laboratory. The DP also oversees three scholarships that students are encouraged to apply for. Each of the scholarships has particular specifications, but the awards that come with them can help defray educational expenses. UG also has its own Psychology Clinic. Though this is primarily used for training graduate students, there are ways for undergraduates to get involved as well.
#20. University of North Carolina Wilmington – Wilmington, NC
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $7,091 in-state; $21,156 out-of-state
Score: 87.66
Unique Features
The University of North Carolina Wilmington is a public research university with an annual student enrollment of over 16,000. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program at UNCW emphasizes research in a variety of areas including memory-improvement techniques, the social cognitive factors underlying prejudice, and ways to reduce school violence. Students take a series of required and elective courses including classes like Learning and Behavior Analysis, Abnormal Psychology, and Cognitive Psychology. Students also participate in a capstone course which generally includes laboratory experience. Admission to the program requires the completion of introductory classes in psychology, biology, and mathematics with at least a ‘C' average. Students are encouraged to participate in research and can even receive credit for work with faculty. Research areas cover numerous options including Physiological Psychology and Neuroscience, Developmental and Lifespan Psychology, and Community and Environmental Psychology. Students can also take advantage of campus programs like the Psychology Career Center or the Psychology Career Zone to advance their professional development.
#19. University of Maryland – College Park, MD
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $10,595 in-state; $35,216 out-of-state
Score: 88.25
Unique Features
The University of Maryland is located in College Park, MD and is the largest university in the Washington, DC metro area with an enrollment of over 41,000 students every year. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BAP consists of 11 courses, while the BSP adds an additional three courses in mathematics and science. The program is designated as a Limited Enrollment Program, and entry is competitive. Students must pass the introductory course in psychology with no less than a ‘B-', among other requirements for admission. In addition to lower level courses, students take courses from three broad areas including Mind, Brain, & Behavior, Mental Health & Interventions, and Social, Developmental & Organizational Sciences. The UM program places a high stress on research and offers students a number of avenues for pursuing research opportunities, including research assistantships, independent research, and the FIRE program – the First-Year Innovation & Research Experience – which allows students to earn up to nine credits for their General Education, while participating in a broad-based research experience early in their college career.
#18. University of Iowa – Iowa City, IA
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $9,267 in-state; $31,233 out-of-state
Score: 89.6
Unique Features
Located in Iowa City, IA, the University of Iowa is a large public research university with a student population topping 32,000 annually. The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Both degree options require 46-47 credits which include prerequisites and supporting courses. The BSP also requires two additional science courses and two additional mathematics courses. Classes in the program include Laboratory in Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology of Interpersonal Relations, and Social and Personality Development. The DPBS offers several dual degree options for interested students, including a BA and Masters of Public Health in Community and Behavioral Health, a BA and Master of Science in Business Analytics, as well as a BS and Master of Science in Finance, among others. Research in the field is an important component of the program and students will have significant opportunities to participate in a variety of areas, including Health Psychology, Developmental Psychopathology, and Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience. UI has a significant commitment to diversity as a key component of its mission, and there are numerous programs and centers to serve the diverse population of students who choose to attend school at UI.
#17. Purdue University – West Lafayette, IN
Bachelor of Science in Psychological Sciences
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Tuition: $9,992 in-state; $28,794 out-of-state
Score: 90.36
Unique Features
A large public research university located in West Lafayette, IN, Purdue University enrolls over 43,000 students annually. PU offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychological Sciences. The program requires a total of 36 credits which is divided between required core classes, electives, and other requirements. Students take classes in topics like abnormal psychology, behavioral neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and quantitative studies in psychology. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a number of experiential learning opportunities for interested students to consider, including research opportunities with faculty, internship opportunities for credit, study abroad, and the Psychology Learning Community. The PLC experience is unique as students live together in the same dorm hall, and work on different topics and issues in the field. For instance, one PLC is focused on learning how to handle and analyze big data in the field of psychology. Research opportunities are available in areas like Learning & Memory, Ingestive Behavior, and Perception & Performance. The DPS also regularly holds colloquia and symposia on topics of interest in cognitive, clinical, and neuroscientific psychology. The DPS and its programs are regularly ranked among the nation's top schools for psychology.
#16. University of Virginia – Charlottesville, VA
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $17,653 in-state; $49,032 out-of-state
Score: 91.24
Unique Features
The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, VA and is a public research university. The school was originally founded and designed by Thomas Jefferson. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The program includes five prerequisites which must be passed with at least a ‘C' letter grade. In the major, students complete 34 credits and take classes in a variety of areas, exposing individuals to some of the key areas of study in the field. The four areas include Systems and Behavior Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Clinical and Social Psychology. Classes in the program can include Neural Mechanisms of Behavior, the Nature-Nurture Debate, and Early Social and Moral Development. There are some 35 different research labs overseen by the faculty in the program where students are also invited to participate in fieldwork and research projects. Faculty focus on six different areas in regard to research, including Systems Neuroscience, Theory and Application in Social Psychology, and Lifespan Development. Students can also join the Psychological Society to meet other students and participate in various activities. For motivated students, there is also the Distinguished Majors Program which includes additional research related opportunities.
#15. Arizona State University – Tempe, AZ
Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $10,822 in-state; $28,336 out-of-state
Score: 91.29
Unique Features
Located in Tempe, AZ in the larger Phoenix metro area, Arizona State University is a large public research university with an annual enrollment of over 51,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Both degrees are aimed at rooting students in the fundamental principles of the discipline, as well as giving them well-rounded and effective research skills and appreciation for the application of psychological theories and principles in a variety of fields. The BSP degree is especially useful for students who are considering a career in medicine or the sciences. Classes in the program include Personality Theory and Research, Adolescent Psychology and Psychopathology, and Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination. The DP seeks to make research opportunities available to students who can participate in any one of eight different research labs like the Applied Behavior Analysis Lab, or the Quantitative Psychology Lab. ASU also hosts several centers which are public-facing institutions that provide important services to the community, including the Veterans Wellness Research Center, and the REACH Institute, which focuses on evidence-based treatment and prevention.
#14. University of California, Irvine – Irvine, CA
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Social Behavior
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Tuition: $13,700 in-state; $42,692 out-of-state
Score: 91.55
Unique Features
The University of California, Irvine is a member of the state's university system and is a public research institution with over 35,000 students. The Department of Psychology and Social Behavior offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Social Behavior. The program consists of 13 courses which include required courses and electives. Courses are offered in four broad areas within the DPSB, including Developmental Psychology, Preclinical Psychology, Health Psychology, and Social, Personality, and Environmental Psychology. Classes in the program include Life Span Developmental Psychology, Social Animal: An Introduction to Social Psychology, and Intensive Longitudinal Data Analysis. Research areas in the department include Affective Science, Developmental Psychology, and Health Psychology, among others. Students have opportunities to work with faculty on their research. The degree also features a field study component which students can fulfill through an internship in a variety of settings, including local schools, hospitals, clinics, counseling centers, or legal offices. There are some 1200 psychology majors, which means that students activities and clubs are also an important part of getting to know classmates, as well as great places to experience professional development.
#13. University of Washington – Seattle, WA
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $11,207 in-state; $36,588 out-of-state
Score: 93.85
Unique Features
The University of Washington is located in Seattle, WA, and is a public research university with a large and diverse student body. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BSP degree is designed to be research intensive and is recommended for students who are interested in pursuing doctoral work. The BAP is less intensive and is meant to introduce students to a wide array of theories and principles in the discipline. BAP students generally tend to go into counseling or therapeutic careers. The major is a mix of required courses, courses from within specific subdisciplines, and electives. Classes in the program include Principles of Applied Animal Behavior, Neuroscience of the Mind, and Infant Behavior and Development, among many others. There are significant research opportunities for students, and faculty in the department focus their research in eight broad areas, including Social and Personality, Cognition and Perception, and Clinical Psychology. The DP also oversees several centers that serve the public and offer space for important research, such as the Center for Anxiety & Traumatic Stress, and the Behavioral Research & Therapy Clinics.
#12. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Chapel Hill, NC
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $8,987 in-state; $35,170 out-of-state
Score: 94.39
Unique Features
Located in lovely Chapel Hill, NC in the triad region, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university with almost 30,000 students annually enrolled. The Department of Psychology & Neuroscience offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BAP includes a total of 42-43 credits including various prerequisites and supporting coursework in the sciences, mathematics, and computer science. The BSP is 46-48 credits with additional coursework in the sciences. Courses in the program include Design and Interpretation of Psychological Research, Development of the Black Child, and History of Neuroscience. The DPN also offers an Honors Program for qualified students. The HP requires students to complete an independent research project which should be based in one of the labs run by faculty. The faculty conduct research in seven broad areas including Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Quantitative Psychology, among others. Faculty have produced important studies in a variety of areas. For instance, Dr. Donald Lysle works on issues related to PTSD, while Dr. Kathryn Reissner conducts research on addiction and the ways that it can change brain chemistry.
#11. University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, MN
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $14,760 in-state; $30,438 out-of-state
Score: 94.90
Unique Features
The University of Minnesota is a large research university spread across Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN. UM has over 47,000 students enrolled in their numerous undergraduate and graduate programs. The Department of Psychology offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BAP degree is meant to produce graduates with a firm grasp on the key theories and principles of the field. The degree is 36 credits total and also requires that students take four semesters of a foreign language. The BAP degree offers three different capstone options, including research, or a community engagement option. The BSP program focuses especially on biological and quantitative skills and exposes students to other fields like computer science, cognitive science, and neuroscience. The BSP degree is 54-61 total credits, which includes additional coursework in the sciences and mathematics. Classes in the program include Psychology in the Workplace, Behavior Analysis and Autism, and Psychology of Stress and Trauma. As with most programs, students can gain invaluable experience by participating in the ongoing research of faculty in a variety of labs. Students can also receive credit in some instances.
#10. Stanford University – Stanford, CA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $ 51,354
Score: 95.98
Unique Features
Located in proximity to Silicon Valley and San Francisco, Stanford University is a mid-sized private research university. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Students take a mix of required core courses, electives, and supporting classes. For interested individuals in the Honors Program, there are four distinct specialization tracks, including Cognitive Sciences, Mind, Culture, and Society, Neuroscience, and Health and Development. Students are not required to take one of the tracks, but if they do, they will shape their electives. Courses in the program include The Psychology of Bias: Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination, Vertical Neuroscience: How the Brain Enables Climbing, and the Psychology of Health: Culture, Self, and Society. Faculty oversee research in six different areas, and opportunities for undergraduates to work with faculty to conduct research. The Affective Science area of research looks at emotion, psychopathology, and culture. The Social Psychology area of research looks at the interplay between minds and the social world in which people live. The DP has a stated position that lifts up diversity as a central value of the program, both in terms of students admitted, but also in terms of faculty.
#9. Indiana University – Bloomington, IN
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $10,681 in-state; $35,456 out-of-state
Score: 95.98
Unique Features
The flagship institution of the state's university system, Indiana University is a public research university and is located in Bloomington, IN. The Department of Psychological and Brain Science offers a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The BAP program is structured such that students can unofficially obtain concentrations in memory, cognition, clinical psychology, or human development. The BSP requires additional coursework in the sciences, and is especially well-suited for students who are contemplating doctoral work. Classes in the program include Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination, Molecular Methods in Neuroscience Research, and Computer and Statistical Models in Psychology. All students have a capstone experience which requires hands-on experiences with faculty in research settings. Students can also apply for research assistantships or can opt to pursue a service-learning experience. There are numerous faculty-led labs where undergraduates can contribute including the Cognition and Action Neuroimaging Lab, the Brain Networks and Behavior Lab, and the Behavioral Alcohol Research Laboratory, among many others. The DP also oversees clinical settings like the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Clinic, which serves the local community and provides opportunities for service-learning and research.
#8. University of Wisconsin – Madison, WI
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $10,555 in-state; $36,805 out-of-state
Score: 96.43
Unique Features
The flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin is located in Madison, WI. UW is a large public research university and annually enrolls 44,000 students. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology for interested individuals. The program is one of the largest in the College of Letters & Sciences and offers a variety of areas to focus on including social psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and biology of brain and behavior. The degree consists of 33 credits and includes a mix of foundational courses, courses spread across various subdisciplines, and areas of depth. Classes include Psychology of Human Emotions: From Biology to Culture, the Structure of Human Thought: Concepts, Language and Culture, and the Criminal Mind: Forensic and Psychobiological Perspectives. Students in the program are required to take a capstone seminar course, of which there are five options. Qualified individuals can also pursue a thesis through the Honors Program. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA to qualify for graduation. Admission to the program requires a grade of C or better in the introductory class. Significant research opportunities are available in areas like Perception, Clinical Psychology, and Developmental Psychology, and students are encouraged to apply for possible research assistantships.
#7. Columbia University – New York City, NY
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $59,430
Score: 96.98
Unique Features
An Ivy League research university, Columbia University is located in New York City, NY. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. The degree is composed of 30 credits and students have to pass courses in the major with a ‘C-' or higher. The program consists of foundational courses, distribution courses, and electives. Classes include Animals in Our Own Backyard: The Science of Observing Behavior, the Dynamic Brain: Plasticity from Birth to Old Age, and Psychology and Neuroscience of Positive Emotion. Students can also take courses in individually supervised research or a fieldwork course. Undergraduates are encouraged to get involved in the ongoing research within the department. Faculty are involved in over 35 different areas or research including Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, Psychology of Close Relationships, and Social Cognitive Neuroscience. Research opportunities run the gamut from taking a research course, getting a paid assistantship, or even volunteering. CU is a world-renowned institution, and they are consistently hosting speakers and colloquia where interested individuals can gain access to all kinds of different experiences and conversations.
#6. University of California – Berkeley, CA
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
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Tuition: $14,184 in-state; $43,176 out-of-state
Score: 97.49
Unique Features
One of the great public university's in the country, the University of California, Berkeley is a research-intensive institution with an annual student enrollment of over 42,000. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Admitted students are required to take a series of lower division courses in areas like biological science, social science, and quantitative reasoning. Prerequisites must be passed with a 3.2 GPA overall. Students also take upper-division courses, some of which are distributed across areas like Clinical Psychology, Biological Psychology, and Cognitive & Developmental Psychology, among others. Classes in the program include Data Science for Cognitive Neuroscience, Exploring the Brain: Introduction to Neuroscience, and Biological Clocks: Physiology and Behavior. Faculty oversee research in several areas including Developmental Psychology, Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience, and Clinical Science. The Honors Program offers qualified individuals the opportunity to engage in a research-intensive degree. Psychology majors can also take advantage of study abroad opportunities, which are robust at UCB. The DP also oversees different clinical settings where some training can take place, including the Center for Excellence for Clinical Training.
#5. University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign, IL
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $15,094 in-state; $31,664 out-of-state
Score: 97.56
Unique Features
The Urbana-Champaign campus of the University of Illinois is the flagship campus of the state's university system. UI is a significant research university with an annual enrollment of over 49,000 students. The Department of Psychology has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology for interested students. The program emphasizes rigorous training in research methods, careful statistical analysis, and a deep grasp of the biological processes of behavior. The program offers ten different concentrations including Behavioral Neuroscience, Diversity Science, and Personality Psychology, among many others. Classes in the program include Personality and Social Development, Personal and Social Development, and Psychology and Law. Students have an opportunity to serve as nonprofessional mental health workers for credit. There are some 23 different areas where faculty are conducting cutting edge research that interested individuals can pursue. Students can also pursue internships through the Cunningham Children's Home, the Social Justice Educator Paraprofessional Program, and the Counseling Paraprofessional Center. The DP also offers several awards and recognition for academic excellence, including the Janet Tritsch Award, and the Julie Sutton Osgood Award.
#4. Harvard University – Cambridge, MA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $50,420
Score: 97.72
Unique Features
The oldest institution of higher learning in the country, Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA and is a private Ivy League research university with an annual student body of 22,000. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The program has four different tracks, including a General track, a Social and Cognitive Neurosciences track, a Mind, Body, and Behavior track, and a Secondary Field in Psychology option. Some of the tracks include a thesis option. Classes in the program include Functional Neuroimaging of Psychiatric Disorders: Insights into the Human Brain-Mind, the Biological and Social Embedding of Early Life Stress, and Explaining Beauty: The Hidden Functions Behind Aesthetics. Research opportunities at HU are everywhere, and students can choose to pursue inquiry in labs that deal with issues like brain circuit mechanisms, intergroup bias, and decision making. Students in the program wrestle with issues and topics connected to topics like memory, addiction, the development of infants and children, and social interaction between adults and between adults and children.
#3. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $15,262 in-state; $31,664 out-of-state
Score: 98.88
Unique Features
If you attend the University of Michigan, it is literally impossible that you won't pull for all things UM sports. UM is a large public research university located in Ann Arbor, MI. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The DP has designed their degree with pathways towards a career. There are ten different pathways or concentrations offered including Evolution, Biology, & Behavior; Law, Criminal Justice, & Forensics; and Language, Thought & Culture. Each option consists of prerequisites, core and lab courses, as well as electives and interdisciplinary courses. For instance, in the LTC option, students not only take breadth courses in psychology, but they also take courses in linguistics, anthropology, and English. Some of the elective courses in the program include Cognitive Neuroscience of Learning and Memory, Developmental Neuroscience, and the Psychology of Adolescence. Research opportunities abound at UM, including the STAR Scholars Program which is designed to facilitate student research by getting them connected to a research project that is most aligned with their interests. There are also three different student organizations for individuals to get involved with, including the Undergraduate Psychological Society, and the Michigan Association of Psychological Scholars.
#2. University of California – Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology
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Tuition: $13,226 in-state; $42,218 out-of-state
Score: 99.72
Unique Features
The University of California, Los Angeles is a well-known public research university with an annual student enrollment of over 45,000. The Department of Psychology offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology. The BAP degree is a general orientation and offers both the breadth and depth of most programs. Students who pursue this degree can either go on for further study or are often prepared to enter the workforce. The BSP degree is specifically designed for students who are interested in pursuing postgraduate work in fields like neuroscience, physiological psychology, or the health sciences. Both degrees are structured with prerequisites, core courses, as well as laboratory classes, and electives. Classes in the program include Neuroscience: From Molecules to Mind – Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, Biology and Behavioral Neuroscience of Aging, and Abnormal Psychology: Developmental Perspectives. There are several venues for research, including the UCLA LEADS program which offers fellowships and grants to support undergraduate research. Undergraduates are also encouraged to publish their findings in the UCLA Undergraduate Psychology Journal or the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal.
#1. Duke University – Durham, NC
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Tuition: $55,695
Score: 100
Unique Features
Located in Durham, NC, Duke University boasts a beautiful campus where they enroll over 15,000 students every year. The Department of Psychology & Neuroscience offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology among other degrees. The degree is comprised of a series of prerequisites, then 11 courses in psychology, including a research methods courses, and additional quantitative and natural sciences courses to fill out the quantitative nature of the BS degree. Some courses in the program include The Psychology of Health Behavior Change; Alcohol: Brain, Individual, and Society; and The Psychology of Gender. The DPN also offers study abroad courses with a special focus on topics in psychology, including the History of Psychology. Several courses in the program have a research requirement which students can fulfill either by writing a research paper or by participating in one of the many research projects being conducted by departmental faculty. This configuration provides seamless interaction between classroom learning and research work, which is a very unique aspect of the program at DU. One significant area of ongoing research at DU is in the field of Child Studies, which is interested in the developmental psychology of children ages two months to six years old.