Why Psychology?
The Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, offers undergraduate work leading to the B.A. degree in psychology. The curriculum ensures exposure to the breadth of experimental and applied psychology, while also allowing flexibility in choosing courses that fit students' unique interests. In addition to standard coursework, students may also earn credit toward the degree from hands-on experience doing research with faculty members or volunteering in local community agencies.
Why should you consider a major in psychology?
Psychology is one of the most popular majors, both at UTK and nationally. Why? Because psychology is:
Fascinating – psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. What could be more interesting than understanding learning, aggression, prejudice, motivation, attraction, memory, diversity, development, emotion, mental illness, personality, and so on?
Relevant – because psychology covers the breadth and diversity of behavior and experience, you are certain to learn things you can apply to yourself, your relationships, and your work.
Useful – this psychological knowledge, combined with the skills you obtain in scientific inquiry and critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication makes the psychology major one of the most versatile.
With a BA in psychology, you can enter careers in education, law enforcement, public relations, advertising, human services, research, and many more.
Students with a BA in psychology also go on to medical school, law school, or graduate school in psychology, counseling, education, or social work.
The UT CEnter for Career Development provides links to several web pages which discuss career options for psychology majors who are interested in a career in psychology or a related field.
Study Abroad
Psychology majors are strongly encouraged to supplement their UTK curriculum with exposure to international perspectives through programs abroad opportunities.
Although there are psychology faculty-led programs as well as programs specifically relevant for psychology majors, you do not need to study psychology to gain valuable and relevant learning from a study abroad experience.
The best time for psychology majors to study abroad is the summer between the first and second year through the fall of the junior year.
Plan ahead! Deadlines for spring semester study abroad programs often occur over the summer. If you want to spend the spring of your sophomore year abroad, you need to be working on your applications over the summer after your first year.
