BS in Psychology

The field of psychology uses scientific methods and procedures to study all aspects of behavior and cognitive processes. Knowledge acquired about such topics as motivation, perception, learning, memory, personality, and social interaction is of major practical value in many settings (e.g., industry, education, health care). Through the applied focus of many of its course offerings, the department provides a wide range of practical skills and knowledge that are useful in many different employment settings. At the same time, all undergraduate psychology students are equally well prepared for graduate work.

The department’s philosophy is to provide each student maximum flexibility in devising a specific plan of study. Psychology major requirements include the completion of five basic psychology courses (PSYC-1200 General Psychology, PSYC-2310 Experimental Methods and Statistics, PSYC-4370 Cognitive Psychology or PSYC-4410 Sensation and Perception, PSYC-4310 Advanced Experimental Methods and Statistics, and PSYC-4990 Undergraduate Thesis) and the completion of at least 12 additional credit hours within the department. The latter courses are electives and students will choose them in consultation with departmental advisers.

In addition, students must complete the basic degree requirements in physical, life, and mathematical sciences. Again, students will consult with their advisers in selecting specific courses to meet these requirements in accordance with their individual interests and goals.

As is evident in the typical four-year program outlined below, PSYC-1200 General Psychology is usually taken in the first year, PSYC-2310 Experimental Methods and Statistics in the second year, PSYC-4370 Cognitive Psychology or PSYC-4410 Sensation and Perception and PSYC-4310 Advanced Experimental Methods and Statistics in the third year and PSYC-4990 Undergraduate Thesis in the fourth year.

Due to the flexibility permitted in course selection, individual curricula may vary considerably within the framework of basic Institute degree requirements. Students are encouraged to supplement basic requirements in science and mathematics whenever feasible in order to take full advantage of Rensselaer’s education opportunities. A minimum of 124 credit hours is required to complete this curriculum. Curriculum for B.S. Psycology Degree (124 credits).

Cognitive science is a highly interdisciplinary science at the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and computer science.  In recognition of this, students can do a dual major, theone major reflecting the 'Minds' part, the other major reflecting the 'Machines' part.  A dual major can also reflect the aim of doing scientific investigation alongside technological application and innovation.  Some popular dual majors are:

• Computer Science and Psychology - appropriate for students interested in the understanding and computational modeling of human reasoning, perception, and learning.
• Computer Science and Philosphy - appropriate for students interested in artificial intelligence and philosphy of mind.
• Computer Systems Engineering and Philosophy or Psychology (or Electrical or Mechanical Engineering) - appropriate for students interested in robotics.
• Information Technology and Psychology - appropriate for students interested in cognitive engineering(engineering technology that dovetails with, or enhances, human cognition).

Psychology Degree curriculum template