Colorado State University

What you'll study

The undergraduate psychology programme at Colorado State University covers core areas of psychological science while emphasising empirical methods and applied experience. Early coursework typically includes Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods, and Statistics for Behavioural Sciences, followed by foundational blocks such as Biological Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology and Abnormal Psychology.

Students progress into intermediate and advanced topics through classes in learning and motivation, personality, sensation and perception, lifespan development, and psychometrics. The curriculum commonly requires laboratory courses and structured research practica to build skills in experimental design, data collection and statistical analysis.

Undergraduates may choose electives and specialised seminars in areas such as neuropsychology, health psychology, forensic psychology, industrial/organisational psychology, and applied clinical skills. Many students complete a senior capstone, honours project or independent research under faculty supervision; internships and community practicum are encouraged to gain applied experience in health, education or social-service settings.

Typical modules and experiences

• Introduction to Psychology
• Research Methods and Laboratory Experience
• Statistics for the Behavioural Sciences
• Biological Bases of Behaviour
• Cognitive and Developmental Psychology
• Social and Abnormal Psychology
• Electives in applied areas (e.g. forensic, health, organisational)
• Senior capstone, honours thesis or independent research
• Internship/practicum opportunities with local agencies

Entry requirements

Admission to Colorado State University requires a completed secondary-school qualification (such as a high school diploma) and meeting the university's general admission criteria. Typical successful applicants present a solid academic record with strong performance in core subjects. Recommended high-school preparation includes courses in English, mathematics (algebra and preferably statistics), natural sciences and social studies.

Standardised tests may be optional depending on the university's current admissions policy. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or qualifying pathway. Transfer applicants are assessed on college-level coursework and GPA; some psychology courses may have prerequisites before students can declare the major or enrol in upper-division psychology classes.

Beyond university admission, entry to specific upper-level psychology courses often requires completion of introductory psychology, research methods and statistics with satisfactory grades. Applicants with questions about prerequisites or pathways should consult departmental advisors.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Colorado State University are prepared for a range of entry-level roles and for further professional education. Common immediate career paths include positions as research assistants, case managers, behavioural health technicians, rehabilitation specialists, human resources associates, and roles in community and social services.

Psychology graduates are also well placed for careers in market research, user experience and design research, public policy, education, and business roles that value analytical, communication and interpersonal skills. Many students pursue postgraduate training—master’s or doctoral degrees in psychology, counselling, social work, educational psychology, occupational therapy, medicine or law—to qualify for clinical practice, licensure or specialised research careers.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers psychology students access to active research programmes and a diverse set of faculty expertise across cognitive, clinical, developmental and social psychology. The department supports undergraduate research placements in faculty labs, enabling hands-on experience with experimental methods and data analysis.

Students benefit from practical learning through community partnerships, internship programmes and practicum placements in the Fort Collins region and along the Front Range. CSU also provides campus-wide resources such as career and internship services, writing and tutoring centres, and academic advising to support progression to graduate study or employment.

With a balance of rigorous scientific training and opportunities for applied practice, the Bachelor’s in Psychology at Colorado State is suited to students aiming to develop strong research skills, clinical foundations or versatile professional competencies for a wide range of careers.