Psychology, BA
Program Details
- Location
- Akron Campus
- Level
- undergraduate
- Academic Pathway
- major
- Degree/Program Type
- Bachelor of Arts
- Format
- In-person
- Course Info
- Pscyhology, BA
- College
- Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences (BCAS)
- School/Department
- Department of Psychology
Program Contact
- Jennifer Tehan Stanley, Ph.D.
-
Professor & Chair
330-972-8376
Overview
Join one of the best undergraduate psychology programs in Ohio — and the nation — at The University of Akron. Here, you’ll develop a thorough understanding of human behavior and what drives it, the psychology of various ages and populations, research methods and more, all while applying that knowledge through research opportunities and field experiences. From our commitment to experiential learning to our community connections and exceptional faculty, UA has everything you need to rise to the top of your career.
In the B.A. in Psychology program, you’ll explore various facets of psychology, including experimental psychology, the psychology of diversity, psychological testing and developmental psychology. With numerous opportunities for practical application and hands-on research, you’ll build critical thinking and research skills, ensuring you are well-equipped for a range of careers in psychology.
Whether you're a prospective student, current student or just checking us out, if you have any questions please email me directly at jstanley@uakron.edu.
Dr. Jennifer Stanley
Chair and Professor
Department of Psychology
Admissions Requirements
To be admitted into the B.A. in Psychology program, students must:Â
Earn a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.Â
Earn a minimum 2.0 GPA in psychology major courses.Â
Complete at least 30 credit hours.Â
Fulfill general education requirements in Mathematics, Statistics, Logic, and Writing (both parts one and two). Â
Career Outcomes
Our undergraduate program blends theory with practical experiences to help you build a solid foundation for your career or graduate-level study. Whether you're interested in clinical practice, research or applied psychology, as a psychology major, you’ll develop the expertise and skills you need to excel in your future.
You can work in a wide range of roles and industries, from mental health services to marketing. With a psychology major, minor or certificate, you’ll have critical thinking, research and interpersonal skills that are highly valued across fields. You’ll also be well-equipped to pursue graduate work in psychology or related fields.
Specific careers for psychology majors include:
Mental health counselor
Human resources specialist
Market research analyst
Behavioral health technician
Case manager
What Sets UA Psychology Apart
Learn from accomplished faculty, gain meaningful research experience and build your future in a nationally recognized psychology program.
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Be part of the 35th Best Psychology Program in the Country
UA’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Program was ranked Number 35 in the country by Best Accredited Colleges in 2023.
Learn from Leaders in the Field and the Classroom
Study with professors and practicioners in the fields of Adult Development and Aging, Industrial/ Organizational Psychology, and Counseling Psychology.
Psychology Research: Experience Tiered Mentoring Program
The Psychology Research ExPerience (PREP) Tiered Mentoring Program at UA invites undergraduate students to work one-on-one with faculty and graduate students to gain research experience in the field of psychology.Â
Learn how to apply to PREPSpecialize Your BA in Psychology With a Concentration
Tailor your psychology degree with a concentration that matches your interests and career goals.
Prepare for psychology careers in organizational settings by learning how to apply psychological principles to workplace issues. Coursework includes dynamics of personality, social psychology, and industrial/organizational psychology, with electives such as human resource management and psychology of small group behavior.
Explore the Industrial/Organizational/Business concentration.
Focused on research and scientific inquiry, this concentration equips you for advanced study and research-based careers. The Experimental Psychology concentration includes courses in cognitive processes, experimental psychology, and psychological tests and measurements. You’ll also work on research projects and independent study to further prepare for graduate study or your career.
Ideal for those interested in clinical practice, this concentration covers developmental psychology, psychology of diversity, and clinical and counseling psychology. You will gain skills in assessment, intervention and therapeutic techniques, preparing you for roles in mental health settings.
Learn to work with individuals of all ages. This concentration explores psychological development across the lifespan, including courses in developmental psychology, biopsychology and cognitive processes. Electives such as psychological disorders of childhood and the psychology of adulthood and aging provide a comprehensive understanding of human development.
Undergraduate Psychology Programs FAQ
Find answers to common questions about studying psychology, exploring career paths and enhancing your degree at The University of Akron.
Studying psychology can be rewarding in many respects, from personal to professional. Learning psychology provides a deep understanding of human behavior, which is valuable in numerous career paths and interpersonal contexts. It equips you with skills in research, analysis, communication and critical thinking, which are widely applicable and highly sought.
A psychology degree creates numerous career opportunities in fields like mental and behavioral health, education, business, human resources, marketing, advertising, public relations and many others. Psychology majors can go on to become mental health counselors (may require additional study or certification), human resources specialists, market research analysts and case managers. They can also pursue graduate degrees for further opportunities in psychology and related fields.
Yes. Psychology certificates are available to current UA students and working professionals who want to build specialized expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion or gerontology.
A certificate in diversity, equity and inclusion can strengthen your cultural awareness and prepare you to foster a greater sense of belonging in settings ranging from mental health care to corporate workplaces.
Find Your Place in Psychology
Build connections, explore your interests and grow as a leader through opportunities beyond the classroom.
Connect Through Student Organizations
Meet students who share your interests through psychology-focused student organizations and honor societies. You’ll expand your network, develop leadership skills and build a stronger connection to your field.
Explore What Psychology Has to Offer
Discover the specialized spaces, resources and support available to psychology students at UA.
The Department of Psychology is located on the third floor of the College of Arts and Sciences Building, where students can connect with faculty, collaborate with classmates and find support throughout their studies.
Psychology students have access to:
- A 24-seat computer lab with internet access and statistical software, including SAS, SPSS and Mplus
- Five conference rooms for seminars, research, events and group work
- A communal study area with electrical outlets, a food pantry and other student resources
- An advising office offering guidance on internships, graduate school and student organizations
- A kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave and sink
- Convenient access to psychology faculty and graduate student offices
The Department of Psychology Counseling Clinic provides free, confidential services to members of the campus and surrounding community. Counseling psychology doctoral students deliver individualized care under the supervision of licensed psychologists, gaining advanced clinical experience while supporting clients’ mental health and well-being. The clinic reflects the department’s commitment to professional preparation, evidence-based practice and meaningful community service.
The Department of Psychology is located on the third floor of the College of Arts and Sciences Building, where students can connect with faculty, collaborate with classmates and find support throughout their studies.
Psychology students have access to:
- A 24-seat computer lab with internet access and statistical software, including SAS, SPSS and Mplus
- Five conference rooms for seminars, research, events and group work
- A communal study area with electrical outlets, a food pantry and other student resources
- An advising office offering guidance on internships, graduate school and student organizations
- A kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave and sink
- Convenient access to psychology faculty and graduate student offices
The Department of Psychology Counseling Clinic provides free, confidential services to members of the campus and surrounding community. Counseling psychology doctoral students deliver individualized care under the supervision of licensed psychologists, gaining advanced clinical experience while supporting clients’ mental health and well-being. The clinic reflects the department’s commitment to professional preparation, evidence-based practice and meaningful community service.
Meet Our Faculty!
