Psychology
Psychology is the science of behavior and the mind. This illuminating major will enable you to understand—at an entirely new level—the ways people act, think, believe, feel and learn. The knowledge and skills you attain will prepare you for leadership in a remarkable range of professional settings.
Why do people act the way they do?
The psychology major is ideal for students who are fascinated by the complexity of human behavior. You’ll explore the ways the mind is shaped (for better or worse) by genetic heritage, brain functioning, social surroundings and life experiences. You’ll study neuroscience, developmental and social psychology, and the causes and treatment of mental illness. In small classes, you’ll work side by side with outstanding faculty. You’ll prepare for a lifetime of successful service and achievement—not only in clinical or research settings, but also in schools, hospitals, marketing firms, government agencies, law firms and many other professional venues. This is a flexible major with many applications.
More ways to learn—on campus and beyond
Practical experience is built into the psychology curriculum. Our internships draw on Chicago’s great research, clinical and corporate resources. On campus, you can complete your own, hands-on research project in close collaboration with expert faculty, and present your findings at our annual spring research expo. You also can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, or immerse yourself in a different society and culture through Dominican’s outstanding study abroad program. You’ll have your choice from among programs on four continents.
School of Social Work Partnership Program
Our bridge program with Dominican’s excellent School of Social Work enables you to earn both a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work in just five years. You’ll save both time and tuition dollars. It’s the only combined degree program of its kind in the Chicago area, and prepares you for immediate service in a range of professional roles, including school social worker, aging care specialist, medical social worker, therapist and many others.
Kayla Jackson
Psychology Graduate
“I chose Dominican because it allowed me to learn by immersing myself in many different worlds. I went on service-learning trips to Tijuana, New Orleans, West Virginia and Selma, Alabama. Once I got home, I felt called to do more for others. I went on to earn my master’s degree in social work at DU.”
Amazing opportunities
Our faculty understand that admission to graduate school in psychology is extremely competitive. They’ll not only provide expert guidance but also help you to build your application, present at conferences—maybe even get published in a professional journal. About 65% of our psychology alumni go on to graduate or professional school.
One in ten psychology students completes a second major, and many students complete a minor. These options make our psychology majors even more versatile and marketable. Among the popular subject areas are art, communications, criminology, education, finance, informatics, business management and marketing.
Prepare for a life of service and achievement
A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of bosses say that “a job candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems” is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is the essential skill set of our psychology graduates. Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. Our alumni work in countless fields, and they know what they’re doing. They’re thoughtful, persuasive, open to new ideas, skilled at math and written expression, and able to adapt and thrive through long and meaningful careers. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice.
Ushma Patel
Psychology Graduate
“I was fortunate enough to earn a scholarship, which inspired me to really focus on my studies and get the most of out of my Dominican experience. The learning opportunities on campus were just incredible, and nurtured my many interests—scientific and artistic. Now I’m working to become a medical illustrator and to conduct neuroscience research.”