Syracuse University

What you'll study

The Psychology programme combines core coursework in theoretical and empirical psychology with practical training in research methods and statistics. Early study focuses on introductory psychology, research design and statistical analysis, and biological bases of behaviour. Intermediate and advanced modules typically cover developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, abnormal and clinical psychology, personality, learning and perception.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, Psychological Statistics, Biological Bases of Behaviour.
• Domain courses: Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Social Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Personality Psychology.
• Methods and applied work: Experimental Design, Psychometrics, Laboratory courses, and opportunities for supervised research with faculty.
• Capstone options: Senior seminar, integrative projects or an honours thesis for students pursuing an intensive research pathway.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Courses related to neuroscience, human development, health psychology, forensic psychology, and electives that support careers in business, education and allied health.

Students are encouraged to gain practical experience through internships, practica or research assistant positions. The programme supports independent research with faculty mentors and offers pathways to combine psychology with related majors or minors.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a strong secondary‑school record demonstrating academic readiness for a college‑level liberal arts programme. Syracuse evaluates applications holistically, considering high school grades, the strength of the curriculum, personal statements and extracurricular involvement.

• Recommended preparatory subjects: coursework in mathematics (algebra, statistics) and sciences (biology or psychology if available) is helpful preparation.
• Standardised tests: Syracuse operates a test‑optional policy; applicants may submit SAT/ACT scores if they wish to support their application but are not required to do so.
• International applicants: must present an equivalent secondary‑school credential and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior instruction in English, unless exempt.
• Transfers: applicants from other colleges should provide transcripts showing successful completion of college‑level coursework; psychology majors often transfer introductory psychology and statistics credits where equivalent.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology from Syracuse prepares graduates for a wide range of entry‑level roles and for further professional study. Many alumni progress to graduate programmes in clinical psychology, counselling, social work, occupational therapy, neuroscience or research‑focused master’s and doctoral degrees. Other career directions include human resources, market research, user‑experience research, education, rehabilitation services, case management and roles in public policy or non‑profit organisations.

• Clinical and counselling pathways: further training required (master’s, PsyD, or PhD) for licenced practice.
• Research and academia: research assistant positions, laboratory technician roles and graduate study in psychology and neuroscience.
• Industry and public sector: HR, organisational behaviour, consumer insight, programme coordination and social services.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse offers psychology training within a research‑active liberal arts environment that emphasises experiential learning. Small seminar classes at the upper level and abundant opportunities to work with faculty on original research give students direct exposure to the research process and strengthen preparation for graduate study.

• Research mentorship: access to faculty labs and opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects across cognitive, developmental, clinical and social psychology.
• Applied learning: internship and practicum connections in the Syracuse region and nearby metropolitan areas provide hands‑on experience in clinical, educational and organisational settings.
• Flexible pathways: options to pursue honours projects, interdisciplinary minors (for example in neuroscience or public health) and double majors to tailor study toward career goals.
• Support services: career advising, research funding opportunities for undergraduates and campus resources that help students prepare for professional licensure or graduate admissions.