Psychology is an exciting, diverse field that applies to all parts of the human experience. Psychologists study behavior at all levels, from the actions of large groups to the chemical processes occurring in individual brain cells. Students who study psychology gain a deeper understanding of themselves and those around them. They become better communicators, develop critical thinking skills, and are better prepared to interact with colleagues, no matter their profession.
Eastern’s Psychology program provides a solid scientific background for students seeking a research, teaching or service career in the behavioral science or mental health fields. Through coursework and extensive applied learning experiences, psychology majors develop an understanding of the diversity of human behavior and the variables that influence it. Students receive a firm grounding in the science of psychology, including courses in research methods and statistics, from faculty whose own research reflects the breadth and diversity within the field. Six concentrations in Behavior Analysis, Cognitive Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology, General Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and Mental Health Counseling allow students to focus their studies in preparation for graduate school or employment. A Psychology minor is also available.
Concentrations
The General Psychology concentration in the Psychology major provides students with a broad selection of psychology courses, including developmental psychology, learning and cognition, biological bases of behavior and group psychology.
Careers ranging from working with children with autism to serving as a behavior therapist are available to students who pursue a concentration in Behavior Analysis within the Psychology major. The concentration is certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
This curriculum is chosen by students who want a strong training in neuroscience and cognitive research methods. It is appropriate for students who desire to continue their education at the graduate level to work in health care, social assistance, research, or professional, scientific, or technical services.
The Developmental Psychology concentration within the Psychology major offers a strong foundation in current theory and empirical research in physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. The program is ideal for students planning careers in areas such as child and family advocacy, school psychology, or developmental or intellectual disability assessment.
The Industrial Organizational Psychology concentration in the Psychology major teaches students to apply psychological principles in the workplace that enable them to recruit, hire, train, appraise, lead and motivate employees, as well as how to work within and facilitate groups and teams.
The Mental Health Counseling concentration in the Psychology major teaches students evidence-based assessment, diagnosis and intervention in mental health, as well as practices that promote adaptation and well-being.
All Psychology students are required to conduct research projects and have opportunities to work in one of seven research labs directed by faculty members. In addition, a number of Eastern students have received National Science Foundation fellowships for their work.
Summer Research Institutes
Other opportunities include a Summer Research Institute, as well as faculty-supervised internships and field experiences at more than 50 community.
Global Field Courses
The department also regularly offers global field courses ranging in topics from health psychology to history of psychology and attraction in Nepal, London, Ireland and Hawaii.
Career Options
Students who pursue undergraduate degrees in Psychology can have rewarding and successful careers in a variety of professional fields, including:
Behavior Analyst
Correctional Officer
Drug/Substance Abuse Counselor
Family Service Worker
Hospital Patient Service Advocate
Human Resources Specialist/Manager
Residential Youth Counselor
School Psychologist
Social Service Director
Veterans’ Advisor
Successful Alumni
Recent Eastern students who earned a bachelor’s degree or a minor in psychology are at the following companies and graduate schools:
A four-time Division III softball All-American, Molly is the new head softball coach at Trinity College. “Being a student-athlete has shaped me into the best version of myself and has made me realize my passion for helping others to do the same. I learned commitment and camaraderie and the importance of staying in the moment and focusing on the little things.”
Psychology
Amanda Brycki ’05
Amanda is the behavioral-health services practice manager at United Community & Family Services. “The faculty at Eastern instilled confidence in me that I could pursue a successful career in psychology following graduation. They gave me guidance on what strategies to use to get into graduate school, how to sort through programs and what classes to take.”
Elementary Education and Psychology
Kaitlyn Murphy ’16
Kaitlyn is pursuing a master’s degree in early childhood education with cross-certification in special education at Central Connecticut State University. “My experience at Eastern was wonderful. The classes I took helped me to better understand the special education field and how to incorporate research into my love for teaching.”
MedOptions
Kristin Hambidge ’07
Psychology major Kristin Hambidge is a psychologist at MedOptions and the University of Connecticut. “At Eastern, I completed an internship at a local psychiatric hospital, which was my first experience providing direct clinical services for those with mental health concerns. Eastern’s psychology faculty always made me feel welcome and supported in my academic and professional endeavors.”
Psychology
Jennifer Laney ’09
Jennifer is an adjunct psychology professor at Eastern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut. “My experience in Eastern’s psychology department has profoundly influenced my work ethic and teaching style. My professors challenged me to be the best version of myself in an environment that was both academically rigorous and empathetic. I strive to create this balance for my own students.”
Behavior Technician
Sumah Confer ’20
Psychology major Sumah Confer ’20 is a registered behavior technician at a children’s hospital in Virginia. She was the lead researcher on a published article that analyzes anti-vaccination practices and offers strategies to encourage vaccination among vaccine-hesitant groups. The faculty-supported project was published in the journal “Behavior and Social Issues” by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI).
Marketing Consultant
Marlana Carroll ’11
Psychology major Marlana Carroll is an inbound marketing consultant with Vital Design, an Internet marketing agency in Portsmouth, NH. “There are endless opportunities to get involved at Eastern! I worked on campus and was a part of eight organizations. I discovered what drove me to become the marketing professional I am today.”
Social Psychologist
Abigail Caselli ’17
Psychology major Abigail Caselli earned her master's degree in social psychology at Syracuse University. “Being involved in undergraduate research was the best decision I made at Eastern. I presented at research conferences and developed a resume that helped me get accepted into graduate school.”
Psychology
Eric Cerino ’14
Eric earned his doctorate at Oregon State and is now a postdoctoral fellow at Penn State. “The willingness of Eastern’s psychology faculty to invest in every student’s success made it easy for me to develop a passion for research and apply my training to real-world situations. I had the best of both worlds — an opportunity to research with experts in the field while learning in an intimate setting.”
