About the Program
Why and how do people act, think and feel as they do? Many of the answers to such questions are found in psychology. The Department of Psychological Sciences is one of the largest and most active undergraduate programs at William & Mary, with approximately 150 majors and 35 minors graduating each year. You will learn about the science of mental processes and behaviors by taking classes that integrate theory, research and application of scientific principles. Courses span the natural and social sciences and cover topics such as social behavior, human development, cognition, psychopathology, learning and memory, personality, physiology, statistics and research methods.
Paths of Study
What Makes Us Different
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Vertical Integration of Research
Starting your first year, you can join a research lab where you'll have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research with graduate students and faculty.
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Service-learning
You can complete a placement in a community partner agency that serves local children and families.
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Presentation of Research
Many undergraduate students present original research at local and national conferences each year.
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Support of Neuroscience
Significant participation along with five other W&M departments in the interdisciplinary neuroscience program.
Applied Learning
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Courses
Start your study with Critical Questions in Psychology (PSYC 100), Introduction to Psychology as a Natural Science (PSYC 201) and Introduction to Psychology as a Social Science (PSYC 202).*
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Research
Collaborate on faculty research, focusing on topics including emotional and social processes in children living in high-risk environments, memory processes, and stereotypes and prejudice.
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Psi Chi
Join the International Honor Society in Psychology to connect with other psychology students.
Hear from a Student
"I came into college knowing one of my majors would be psychology. I was absolutely fascinated with how the brain works and our interactions with one another. I mean on what other campus would you get to hold a brain? I have learned so much in my classes here that has shaped my perspective on so many other subjects and experiences in my life." — Charlotte West '25, government and psychology double major from Prince William County, Virginia
Outcomes
About half of W&M psychological studies graduates go on to study psychology, law, medicine, business, nursing, education or other academic disciplines at the graduate level.
Talk to Us
Want to learn more? Our current students and faculty want to connect with you.
Department of Psychological Sciences
Contact Us
- Get an inside look: Contact a current psychological sciences major
- Ask the faculty: Contact the Department of Psychological Sciences
Psychological Sciences News
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Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.
