Idaho State University

What you'll study

The psychology programme provides a balance of core theory, methodological training and applied experience. Early coursework builds a foundation in general psychology, research methods and statistics, followed by core areas such as developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology and biological bases of behaviour.

• Foundational modules: Introduction to Psychology, Psychological Statistics, Research Methods in Psychology.
• Core topic modules: Developmental Psychology, Abnormal/Clinical Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Personality Psychology.
• Biological and applied areas: Biological/Physiological Psychology, Learning and Memory, Psychopharmacology or Neuroscience electives (depending on BA/BS choice).
• Research and practice: Laboratory-based courses, a senior capstone or honours project, and opportunities for practicum or supervised field experience in community settings.
• Electives and specialisms: Options commonly include forensic psychology, health psychology, industrial-organisational psychology, assessment and measurement, and courses tailored to the BA (broader liberal-arts emphasis) or BS (stronger natural-science emphasis).

Students are encouraged to participate in faculty-led research, join the departmental student organisations, and pursue internships with regional service providers to gain hands-on experience before graduating.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Psychology typically requires a completed high-school qualification or equivalent from a recognised institution. Applicants should provide official transcripts as part of their application. Where relevant, transfer applicants must submit college or university transcripts.

• Completion of a secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent.
• Evidence of competency in English; specific course prerequisites (for example in English and mathematics) may be recommended or required depending on prior study.
• Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate readiness for university-level mathematics/statistics given the quantitative components of the degree.
• International applicants should meet the university's general requirements for international admission, including language proficiency where applicable.

Meeting the minimum admission standards does not guarantee entry to particular specialisms or applied placements, which may have additional criteria such as faculty permission, background checks for practicum sites, or evidence of professional suitability.

Career prospects

A Bachelor of Psychology prepares graduates for a wide range of entry-level roles in human services and business as well as for further professional training. Many graduates enter the workforce in positions that involve client support, case management, or administrative and coordination roles within health and social-care agencies.

• Mental health technician, case manager or behavioural health worker in community agencies and hospitals.
• Support roles in education and school-based services, rehabilitation and social services.
• Research assistant positions in academic or applied research settings and market-research roles.
• Human resources, training and organisational support roles in private and public sectors.
• With further graduate study and licensure: clinical psychologist, counsellor, school psychologist, or industrial-organisational psychologist.

Graduates frequently combine work experience with graduate study (master’s or doctoral programmes) to qualify for licensed clinical practice or specialised research careers.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a psychology programme with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and mentored learning. Students benefit from small-group instruction in upper-level courses and opportunities to work directly with faculty on empirical projects.

• Access to active research laboratories and opportunities for hands-on experience in experimental, clinical and applied settings.
• Practicum and internship connections with regional healthcare providers, community agencies and school districts, helping students build practical skills and professional networks.
• Flexible degree options with BA and BS pathways to match students’ interests in liberal arts or science-focused training.
• Student support services, career advising and student organisations that foster professional development and preparation for graduate study or employment.

Together these elements make Idaho State University a practical choice for students seeking a well-rounded undergraduate education in psychology with clear routes into both employment and further study.