Be a Catalyst for Positive Change
Psychology Degree
Explore Anderson University’s psychology program—from counseling to research—and discover how a psychology degree opens doors to diverse career paths. Gain valuable experience in the classroom, then apply what you learn through real-world practice.
Tomorrow’s difference makers start right here.
Dive deep into the human psyche. Turn your passion for helping and understanding others into a career.
Psychology is the study of behavior and mental processes, drawing from disciplines such as biology, sociology, and theology. The psychology program at Anderson University prepares students to work with people in meaningful, service-oriented ways.
WHAT YOU’LL STUDY
The psychology major at Anderson University is designed around self-discovery, close faculty advising, hands-on coursework, research opportunities, and real-world experience. The program helps students understand who they are, identify their strengths and talents, and discern how they can invest their lives to make a difference in the world and the Kingdom of God.
Sample Courses
- Professional Issues for the Psychologist
- Social Psychology
- Interpersonal Relationships
- Abnormal Psychology
- Counseling/Psychotherapy
- Behavioral Neuroscience
Career Pathways
Graduates with a psychology degree pursue careers such as:
- Therapist
- Caseworker
- Social Worker
- School Counselors
- Physical Therapists
- Teacher or Professor
Psychology graduates are also well prepared for graduate study and careers in counseling, clinical psychology, psychiatric social work, family services, human resources, ministry, nonprofit leadership, teaching, and research.
Double Major Opportunities
Many psychology students choose to double major, pairing psychology with other interests to expand career options.
Common combinations include:
- Christian Ministries
- Exercise Science
- Marketing
- Communication
- Social Work
- Youth Leadership
- Criminal Justice
Program Options
Major
Psychology (Liberal Arts Emphasis)
Designed for students who are not planning to attend graduate school in psychology.
Psychology (Pre-Professional Emphasis)
A recommended sequence for students planning to pursue graduate study in psychology, counseling, or related fields.
Complementary Major
The 26-hour complementary major in psychology combines core psychology coursework with varying hours from a student’s primary field of study.
Minor
The psychology minor (16 credit hours) includes general psychology and at least six hours of upper-division coursework.
Students may also participate in Psi Chi, the National Honor Society for Psychology.
EXPERIENCES & GROWTH
Ethical and Professional Skills
Psychology at Anderson University goes beyond the classroom. You’ll grow academically, professionally, and personally through meaningful, hands-on opportunities.
- Undergraduate Research – Work alongside faculty on research projects and present findings, building skills that strengthen graduate school and career readiness.
- Hands-On Experience – Apply classroom learning through internships, community engagement, and real-world settings such as schools, nonprofits, churches, and healthcare environments.
- Interpersonal & Leadership Skills – Develop practical skills in communication, conflict resolution, and assertiveness that prepare you for counseling, leadership, and professional life. Gain hands-on experience as an interpersonal skills trainer, teaching groups like kids, youth groups, and parents of teens on probation.
- Faith & Psychology Integration – Explore how psychology, theology, and spiritual formation intersect to support human flourishing.
- Faculty Mentorship – Learn in small classes where professors invest in your academic success and personal growth.
Transform lives with empathy and insight.
Check out how one student is combining his passions inside and outside the classroom to reach his goals and make an impact.
AFTER GRADUATION
Graduates with training in psychology and related fields can pursue a wide range of careers — from clinical practice to research, education, and human services — each with its own earning landscape. Many psychology careers require graduate education, and earnings vary by role, experience, and location.
Careers
- Therapist
- Business Consultant
- Operations Specialist
- Franchise Owner or Operator
- Investor
- Detective
- Physician
- Social Worker
Earning Potential
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychology-related careers offer strong earning potential, especially with advanced study:
- Psychologists: ~$94,000 median annual salary
- Postsecondary Psychology Teachers: ~$88,000 median annual salary
- Social Workers & Counseling Roles: ~$61,000+ median annual salary
FAQ: Psychology at Anderson University
What can you do with a psychology degree from Anderson University?
Graduates pursue careers in counseling-related fields, social services, education, nonprofit work, ministry, research, human resources, and more. Many students also continue on to graduate school in psychology or related disciplines.
Do I need to go to graduate school with a psychology degree?
Not necessarily. Students with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology can enter the workforce by pursuing careers as caseworkers or criminal investigators.
What is the difference between the psychology emphases?
The liberal arts emphasis is ideal for students not planning to attend graduate school in psychology. The pre-professional emphasis follows a recommended sequence for students who intend to pursue graduate or professional training. The pre-professional emphasis can be tailored to a student’s career goals and incorporate unique experiences like independent research and interpersonal skills training with an internship.
Can I double major with psychology?
Yes. Double-majoring is common in psychology. Students often pair psychology with fields such as Christian ministries, exercise science, marketing, youth leadership, and more.
What makes Anderson University’s psychology program unique?
AU’s psychology program emphasizes close faculty mentoring, small class sizes, faith-informed learning, research opportunities, assertiveness skills training opportunities, and real-world experience—all within a Christ-centered community.
Is psychology a good major for helping professions?
Yes. Psychology provides a strong foundation for careers focused on helping others, including counseling, social work, ministry, education, and nonprofit leadership.
Where is Anderson University located?
Anderson University is located in Anderson, Indiana, just northeast of Indianapolis. Students enjoy a residential campus community with easy access to internships, careers, and cultural opportunities across central Indiana and the broader Midwest.
The Anderson You
You have unique interests and skills that set you apart. Explore the free My College Career Quiz to receive a personalized list of majors selected just for you. We’ve taken out the guessing work. Come find the Anderson you.