BSc in General Psychology in Harrisonburg United States | James Madison University

General Psychology is the ideal major for those interested in studying the scientific exploration of human and animal cognition, emotions, and behavior.
Students pursuing General Psychology examine behavior, emotional responses, and thought processes through diverse academic lenses. The curriculum investigates psychological phenomena at both microscopic levels (like brain and nervous system functions) and broader societal contexts (including cultural influences). As psychology majors develop, they refine essential skills including analytical reasoning, problem-solving, written communication, and verbal expression while mastering behavioral research methodologies.

There are numerous motivations for selecting General Psychology as a major. It can serve as a foundational liberal arts discipline offering diverse career paths for bachelor's degree holders, or as preparatory study for advanced graduate programs. Our graduates commonly pursue advanced degrees in counseling, educational psychology, clinical psychology, research psychology, social services, forensic psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, behavioral analysis, legal studies, and academic administration.

Annually, our psychology program engages hundreds of students in research initiatives and community-based learning. About 40 students complete fieldwork placements each year, while approximately five undertake honors thesis projects. Numerous students achieve exceptional academic recognition, collaborating with faculty as co-presenters at professional conferences.