Courses and Requirements

The field of psychology encompasses the scientific study of behavior, personality, cognitive processes, emotions, and their physiological underpinnings; it includes basic and applied research with humans and other animals as well as the clinical treatment of people. The objective of the major is to introduce students to the basic areas in which scientific research is regularly conducted and to the methods by which it is carried out. The major is structured in such a way as to require students to become familiar with a variety of subfields within the discipline while also allowing opportunities to achieve depth and to conduct research in particular subfields. Students who are considering a major in psychology should consult the Psychological Science’s Handbook.

Courses and Requirements

Academic requirements and courses are available in the Vassar College Catalogue.

Psychological Science Majors Committee

The Psychological Science Majors Committee gives student majors the opportunity to plan both social and educational events for students, faculty, and staff. Students on the committee can also serve as a voice to raise concerns or suggest changes within the department.

Psi Chi

Vassar College hosts a chapter of Psi Chi, the national honor society for psychology. Induction into Psi Chi is based on academic merit. The members of Psi Chi organize social events for the group as well as educational events for all psychology students.