Methodist University - Department of Psychology

Welcome to the Department of Psychology

Psychology is the science of behavior and mental processes (perception, emotion, and cognition), and the application of the knowledge acquired to the resolution of personal and social problems. For students seeking either a B.A. or B.S., the Department of Psychology offers a major in psychology with an optional applied concentration in either human performance or counseling/clinical psychology.

The concentration in human performance combines the related specialties of human factors and industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology. Human factors applies psychology to the design of systems, machines, and products so that people can use them more comfortably, safely, and effectively. I/O psychology applies psychology to improve the productivity and satisfaction of members of organizations (such as employees in manufacturing plants).

The concentration in counseling/clinical psychology combines the related areas of counseling psychology and clinical psychology. Counseling psychology applies psychology to common problems in living, such as in choosing a career or resolving issues in a personal relationship. Clinical psychology applies psychology not only to common problems in living but also to psychological disorders, such as a phobia or a clinical depression. Basic and applied specialties in psychology are numerous and extraordinarily diverse. Not all students majoring in psychology pursue one of the two applied concentrations.

A major in psychology is an excellent choice for some students. Some students majoring in a different area who have the ability to complete two majors may wish to major in psychology as well. Given its nature, it complements many other academic areas.

Department of Psychology