Why Major in Psychology at Washburn?
Psychology is a compelling and fascinating field of study. Psychological science attempts to understand the biological, psychological and sociocultural influences on how we think, feel and act. At Washburn, we believe that students with a scientific understanding of behavior will be well prepared to help others and participate as productive, informed members of a democratic society.
You will develop personal relationships with faculty and fellow students because of small class sizes. The psychology department offers numerous opportunities for conducting research and completing internships. Many of our students get to present their research at regional and national conferences.
Enhance your educational experience by participating in a Washburn Transformational Experience, which allows you to take what you are passionate and transfer it to a leadership role, a study abroad experience, a community service opportunity, or a scholarly or creative endeavor.
Psychology department by the numbers
- More than 650 students enroll in Basic Concepts in Psychology every year
- More than 200 undergraduates have declared psychology as their major
- More than 70% of Washburn psychology majors are women
- More than 20% of Washburn psychology majors enter graduate or professional school
Earn your bachelor's degree entirely online
It is now possible to earn your Bachelor of Arts in Psychology entirely online at Washburn University, offering you the flexibility to complete your degree from anywhere. This online program provides the same high-quality curriculum as our on-campus option, allowing you to engage with experienced faculty, participate in interactive coursework, and build a solid foundation in psychological principles and research methods. Whether you're balancing work, family commitments, or other responsibilities, our fully online psychology degree makes it easier to achieve your academic and career goals on a schedule that works for you.
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Minor in Psychology
Students majoring in other areas but who wish to supplement their coursework with a variety of psychology courses should consider the minor in Psychology. A minor in psychology consists of no less than 15 hours, including at least nine hours of upper division courses. At least four hours must be taken at Washburn. Students should consult an advisor in the psychology department in order to select the most appropriate Psychology courses to complement their major.
Minor requirements
Students must have a grade of C or better in each course applied to the minor.
Recommended minor courses for premed students and students in all health-related majors
Individuals who minor in Psychology are free to take any courses of their choosing within the constraints outlined above. However, the Psychology Faculty highly recommends that students pursing a major related to the healing arts strongly consider choosing from the following courses in their minor plan of study:
- PY 100 Basic Concepts in Psychology
- PY 231 Abnormal Psychology
- PY 251 Research Methods
- PY 305 Sensation and Perception
- PY 307 Physiological Psychology
- PY 326 Health Psychology
- PY 338 Childhood Psychopathology
Tutoring and writing support
Washburn provides a variety of tutoring options tailored to meet the needs of students in psychology. From sessions with knowledgeable tutors to our 24/7 virtual tutoring service, help is always within reach.
If you need assistance with writing assignments, our campus writing center is dedicated to helping students from all departments improve their writing skills. Whether you're crafting a thesis statement, organizing your research or perfecting your citations, our writing tutors are here to guide you.
Meet psychology alumna Valerie
Valerie Peckham enjoyed a successful run in sales and customer service, but she realized that it wasn’t the career she wanted. After years of counseling people on their decisions, she decided she wanted to work in psychology.
While looking at several universities, Peckham established a connection at Washburn that made her choice of college an easy one.
"I called the Washburn Department of Psychology, and spoke with the chair of the department, who was very welcoming and very informative, and invited me to come in and meet in person," she said.
Peckham ended up at Washburn, where she received a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Psychology. She is now a licensed clinical psychotherapist with her own practice in Lawrence, Kansas.
"I’ve known individuals who’ve graduated from programs from other universities, and they have not felt as prepared as I felt when I graduated from Washburn’s program," Peckham said. "In this field, it’s important to be prepared because when you graduate and you get a job as a practicing clinician, you are responsible for people’s lives."
GET IN TOUCH WITH Department of Psychology
Department of Psychology
Henderson Learning Resource Center, Room 211
Washburn University
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621
Phone & Email
Phone: 785.670.1564
psychology@washburn.edu
