Psychology Undergraduate Programs

According to the National Science Foundation (NSF), more common than natural sciences, astrophysics, mathematics, engineering, electrical engineering, and other social sciences, psychology is the most popular major, amongst the unique fields within science and technology. Since the early 1990s, the percentage of college students majoring in psychology has crept up approximately 6 to 6.5 percent, rising from the previous 4 to 5 percent in the 1980s. Needless to mention, the popularity of Psychology did not stop in the 1990s and has since seen constant growth.

Choosing psychology as a major during undergraduate studies certainly opens a vast range of career options. However, it is important to keep in mind that psychology is not just an art, but also a science and hence requires further higher studies before it can be practiced as a career. To put it simply, at an undergraduate level, students only learn the basics of Psychology; beginning with the introduction of the subject and the other subjects that constitute Psychology.

For any student that wants to pursue a career in Psychology, starting with the subject as a major during their undergraduate study is the ideal step forward.

Top Universities for an Undergraduate degree

Below is a list of the top universities that offer an undergraduate degree in Psychology.

Harvard University

• Harvard University is arguably the top university to study any degree in the United States. The argument is no different when it comes to the subject of Psychology. It is well-known that Harvard University provides an exceptional education to the students who are able to get accepted by the university, and provides an academic experience unlike any other. The university trains its students to face the professional world head-on, by mixing real-life examples, research, and studies together - no matter the concentration of the degree.
• The psychology degree offered by Harvard University is a B.A. in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts). It is a full-time degree course, and the duration of the course is of 4 years.
• Students who opt for this degree course learn the basics of Psychology and get introduced to a range of psychology (and related) subjects. Additionally, students are given a choice to opt for either a thesis-based course or a non-thesis course. A thesis-based course would involve the students in research and learn about how to conduct research under the supervision of a mentor.
• The entry requirements include a high-school degree certificate with the following subjects - English, Math, and any two science (or related) subjects.
• The English language requirements include either a TOEFL with a score of 80 overall; or an IELTS with a score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in every component.
• Additional documents required during applying for the course include a transcript, a CV, letters of recommendation, financial documents, and a statement of purpose.
• The annual tuition fee for the course is $52,000.

Columbia University

• Columbia University is another renowned private university in the United States. The university is known widely for its world-class education and educational facilities, as well as for standing on the same rank as other ivy league universities such as MIT. Columbia University is also well-received for their research in different fields of concentration, namely science, and business.
• The psychology degree offered by Columbia University is a B.A. in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts). It is a full-time degree course, and the duration of the course is of 4 years.
• Students who opt for this degree course learn the basics of Psychology and get introduced to a range of psychology-related subjects. Additionally, students must opt for a minor subject that may or may not correspond directly to Psychology (major subject).
• The entry requirements include a high-school degree certificate with the following subjects - English, Math, and they must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0-grade scale or a B+ grade throughout their high school degree.
• The English language requirements include either a TOEFL with a score of 100 overall; or an IELTS with a score of 7.5, with no less than 7.0 in every component.
• Additional documents required during applying for the course include a transcript, a CV, two letters of recommendation (must be confidential), a statement of purpose, and a statement of intent.
• The annual tuition fee for the course is $60,000.

Stanford University

• Stanford University is one of the oldest and most reputed universities in the United States. Established in the year 1885, the university has been recognized for its academics and high student admissions. Moreover, the university has made a long-lasting mark in the area of research and their findings have been regarded as essential information that has contributed heavily towards the betterment of society.
• The psychology degree offered by Stanford University is a B.A. in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts). It is a full-time honors degree course, and the duration of the course is of 4 years.
• Students who opt for this degree course learn not only an introduction to Psychology but also about the functioning of the mind & brain. Furthermore, students get introduced to a range of psychology subjects. However, students must opt for a minor subject that may or may not correspond directly to Psychology (major subject).
• The entry requirements include a high-school degree certificate with a minimum GPA score of 3.9 on a 4.0-grade scale.
• The English language requirements include either a TOEFL with a score of 100 overall; or an IELTS with a score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in every component.
• Additional documents required during applying for the course include a transcript, two letters of recommendation, and GRE scores.
• The annual tuition fee for the course is $55,000.

Yale University

• Yale University is one of the popular private universities in the United States. The university is popular for its academics, high employee turnover, and also for its groundbreaking research in several fields of Health & Science.
• The psychology degree offered by Yale University is a B.A. in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts). It is a full-time degree course, and the duration of the course is of 4 years.
• Students who opt for this degree course get an extensive introduction to Psychology and are able to choose subjects from a range of psychology (and related) subjects. Additionally, students must opt for a minor subject.
• The entry requirements include a high-school degree certificate with a minimum of 60 percent or a B+ grade in all subjects over the duration of high school.
• The English language requirements include either a TOEFL with a score of 100 overall; or an IELTS with a score of 7.0, with no less than 6.5 in every component.
• Additional documents required during applying for the course include a transcript and letters of recommendation.
• The annual tuition fee for the course is $55,000.

Princeton University

• Princeton University is one of the most reputed universities in the United States. The university is not only popular for its academics and high employee turnover, but also for its research and faculty that enhance the university.
• The psychology degree offered by Princeton University is a B.A. in Psychology (Bachelor of Arts). It is a full-time degree course, and the duration of the course is of 4 years.
• Students who opt for this degree course learn the basics of Psychology and get introduced to a range of psychology (and related) subjects. Additionally, students must opt for a minor subject that may or may not correspond directly to Psychology (major subject).
• The entry requirements include a high-school degree certificate with the following subjects - English, Math, and any two science (or related) subjects.
• The English language requirements include either a TOEFL with a score of 100 overall; or an IELTS with a score of 7.0, with no less than 6.5 in every component.
• Additional documents required during applying for the course include a transcript, a CV, two letters of recommendation, financial documents, and a statement of purpose.
• The annual tuition fee for the course is $53,500.

Career prospects after majoring in Psychology

As mentioned in the beginning, psychology is a subject that requires further education before it can be practiced. After receiving an undergraduate degree, students are not allowed to practice any field of psychology, professionally. However, students can apply for internships and other similar positions as a way to gain professional experience under a supervisor.

Furthermore, students of psychology can start early and involve themselves in various research projects in their university as a way to gain experience while studying. Most universities provide ample opportunities to psychology students as a way to expand their horizons in the field of study.

Students of psychology can start practicing psychology independently and professionally after they receive their graduate and/or doctorate degree in a particular field of psychology. However, to obtain a graduate or doctorate degree in Psychology, it is absolutely essential for students to have a strong background in psychology, which includes not only an undergraduate degree in Psychology but also relevant experience of working under professionals.