Kansas Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The programme provides a foundation in core psychological theories and scientific methods alongside opportunities for applied learning. Typical course topics include:

• Introduction to Psychology – core concepts, historical foundations and major perspectives.
• Research Methods and Statistics – experimental design, data analysis and critical evaluation of empirical work.
• Biological Bases of Behaviour – brain function, neurophysiology and psychopharmacology basics.
• Cognitive Psychology – perception, memory, learning and decision making.
• Developmental Psychology – lifespan development from infancy to older adulthood.
• Social Psychology – group processes, attitudes, persuasion and social cognition.
• Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology – diagnostic concepts, major disorders and treatment approaches.
• Personality Theories – major models of personality and assessment methods.
• Applied and Counselling Skills – basic helping skills, ethics, and professional issues.
• Senior Capstone or Research Project – supervised independent study, literature review, or empirical project.
• Internship/Practicum – hands‑on placements with community agencies, schools or health services to apply skills in real settings.

Alongside major requirements, students take liberal‑arts electives to develop communication, quantitative reasoning and ethical decision‑making abilities. Faculty typically emphasise small seminars, one‑on‑one mentoring, and opportunities to participate in faculty research.

Entry requirements

Admissions to the bachelor’s programme normally require a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical supporting materials include official transcripts, a personal statement or essay, and at least one academic reference or school report. Kansas Wesleyan considers applicants holistically; demonstrated interest in psychology, relevant volunteer or work experience, and a record of steady academic performance strengthen an application.

Standardised test scores, where submitted, are considered but many applicants are admitted without them; contact the admissions office to confirm current testing policies. International applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English where required. Mature and transfer applicants should supply college transcripts and details of prior coursework to determine transfer credit.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in psychology from Kansas Wesleyan prepares graduates for a range of entry‑level roles and for further professional training. Common career paths include:

• Human resources, recruitment and training support roles
• Case management, residential support and community services
• Behavioural health technician or rehabilitation assistant positions
• Research assistant or data‑analysis support in academic, healthcare or market research settings
• Educational support roles, advising and youth work
• Sales, customer experience and roles that draw on interpersonal and assessment skills

Graduates who wish to become licensed psychologists, clinical counsellors, school psychologists or licensed social workers typically continue to graduate study and meet state licensing requirements. The programme is designed to give strong preparation for postgraduate degrees in psychology, counselling, social work and related fields.

Why study at Kansas Wesleyan University

Kansas Wesleyan is a small, private liberal‑arts university that emphasises close faculty mentoring, small class sizes and a community‑minded campus culture. Psychology students benefit from personalised attention, opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects, and local internship partnerships in Salina and the surrounding region.

The curriculum blends theoretical study with practical experience, enabling students to build both analytical and interpersonal skills valued by employers and graduate programmes. Support services such as career advising, practicum coordination and academic tutoring help students plan professional pathways and prepare applications for graduate study or licensure programmes.

Students attracted to a campus that values service, leadership and experiential learning will find the psychology programme at Kansas Wesleyan offers a balanced academic foundation and clear routes into applied work or further study.