Benedictine University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in the science of behaviour and mental processes combined with opportunities for applied learning. You will study core areas such as developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology and biological bases of behaviour. Training in research methods and statistics is emphasised to prepare you to evaluate evidence and conduct empirical work.

• Core courses: introductory psychology, research methods, psychological statistics, experimental psychology.
• Domain courses: developmental lifespan, social psychology, personality, abnormal/psychopathology, cognitive processes, biological psychology.
• Applied and practicum options: practicum or internship placements in community agencies, supervised lab research, clinical skills courses and community-based field experiences.
• Capstone/senior experience: a senior seminar, research thesis or applied practicum that integrates coursework and real-world practice.
• Electives and concentrations: opportunities to take electives in areas such as counselling, addictions, forensic psychology, health psychology or organisational behaviour depending on availability and student interest.

Entry requirements

Benedictine University typically requires applicants to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Academic transcripts are required, and successful applicants usually demonstrate a solid academic record in secondary school. Admissions may also consider a personal statement, letters of recommendation and any relevant extracurricular or volunteer experience that demonstrates interest in psychology or helping professions.

Recommended preparatory subjects include biology and mathematics (especially courses that develop quantitative reasoning). If you have prior college coursework, transfer credit policies allow recognised credits to be applied toward degree requirements.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s in psychology opens a range of entry-level roles in human services and related fields as well as preparation for graduate study. Graduates commonly move into positions such as behavioural health technician, case manager, research assistant, youth worker, rehabilitation specialist, human resources support, community outreach coordinator and roles in social service agencies.

For clinical, counselling or school psychology careers, graduates typically pursue postgraduate training—master’s or doctoral programmes—or professional credentials. The degree also provides a solid foundation for careers in market research, organisational behaviour, public health, education and criminal justice when combined with relevant internships or additional qualifications.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers a student-centred environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which supports hands-on learning and undergraduate research. The programme emphasises experiential learning through practicum placements and community partnerships that allow students to gain supervised, real-world experience.

As a university with a liberal arts tradition, Benedictine integrates ethical reflection and community service into its curriculum, which appeals to students interested in values-driven practice. Career services and faculty advisors help students plan postgraduate pathways, secure internships and prepare applications for graduate study or licensure-track programmes.