Psychology
Explore human behavior and prepare for careers in mind and health
The Psychology program at Kentucky Wesleyan College examines human thought, behavior, and emotion. With coursework in development, cognition, and psychological disorders, students prepare for careers in mental health, research, business, and graduate study in psychology or counseling.
Psychology Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Psychology major provides a broad foundation in the science of behavior and mental processes. Students study personality, cognition, development, and abnormal psychology while developing research and analytical skills. Small class sizes ensure personalized mentorship from faculty who guide students through coursework, research, and career planning. Engaged learning includes research projects, service-learning, and opportunities to apply psychological theory in real-world settings. Internships in schools, clinics, and community organizations provide practical experience and professional networking. Emphasizing both scientific rigor and personal growth, the program equips students with critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in diverse professional fields.
Career Paths
Clinical Psychologist (with Graduate Study) – Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders through therapy, assessment, and evidence-based interventions. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.
Counselor or Therapist (with Graduate Study) – Counselors and therapists help individuals, couples, and families manage stress, trauma, and personal challenges. They specialize in areas such as school counseling, marriage and family therapy, or mental health counseling.
Industrial-Organizational Specialist – I/O specialists apply psychological principles to the workplace, improving productivity, employee well-being, and organizational culture. They often work in HR departments or consulting firms.
School Psychologist (with Graduate Study) – School psychologists assess and support students’ learning, behavior, and emotional needs. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to create supportive learning environments.
Research Assistant – Research assistants design studies, collect data, and analyze results to advance knowledge in psychology. They often work in labs, universities, or government agencies.
Human Resources Specialist – HR specialists use psychology skills in recruitment, training, and employee relations, helping organizations build effective teams and positive workplace cultures.
Psychology Program Requirements
The Psychology major requires approximately 39 credit hours. Core courses include Introduction to Psychology, Personality, Child Development, Psychological Disorders, Social Psychology, and Research Methods. Students also complete advanced electives in areas such as Cognitive Psychology, Physiological Psychology, or Counseling Theories. A senior seminar integrates learning through research, presentation, and discussion of current issues in psychology. Laboratory and research components strengthen scientific and analytical skills, while internships provide applied experience in professional settings. The program also offers a minor in psychology requiring 21 credit hours. This comprehensive curriculum prepares students for immediate entry into human services roles or graduate study in psychology, counseling, or related fields.
Employers that hire KWC Psychology graduates
Graduates of KWC with a Psychology degree have gone on to work at organizations like:
- The Kroger Company
