The specific and unique role of the Psychology Department is to provide knowledge of psychology as a human science and as a natural science, founded both on solid philosophical reflection and scientific rigor. The curriculum is designed to provide a basic knowledge and understanding of human experience and behavior and the methods psychologists use to gain such knowledge and understanding. A psychology major is ideal for students who plan a career in any field that deals primarily with people (such as nursing, teaching, social work, guidance, and human resources, to name only a few), or for students who plan to work as professional psychologists and thus need a sound preparation for graduate study.
General Program Requirements
Entry into the psychology major requires a 2.75 grade point average for incoming freshmen and a 2.75 grade point average for transfer students and for those transferring majors within the university.
All psychology majors (BS and BA, with and without honors) may not register for pass/fail (P/F) in the courses listed under departmental requirements; courses graded P/F may not apply to major or Core requirements. Up to 10 credits of courses graded CR may apply towards the major. All majors must obtain a minimum grade of C in all required courses: PSYC 1200 , PSYC 2050 , PSYC 3030 , PSYC 3050 , PSYC 3700 , and PSYC 4890 . In the bachelor of science and bachelor of science with honors programs, PSYC 2400 , PSYC 4030 , and two required electives (selected from PSYC 3040 , PSYC 3440 and PSYC 4160 also must be graded C or higher. All psychology majors must complete at least 30 credits in the major at Seattle University. PSYC 2050 , PSYC 3030 , PSYC 3050 , PSYC 4030 , and PSYC 4890 must all be completed at Seattle University.
A psychology major cannot count more than a total of 10 credits in independent study and/or practicum toward the credits required for the major.
Psychology majors may choose any minor but are not required to do so.