Psychology, BA

A bachelor of arts or B.A. in Psychology is the degree earned by psychology majors at Marquette University. 

Psychology is the scientific approach to understanding human emotions, thoughts and behavior. It helps us understand the way humans perceive, learn about and act in the world. Psychologists examine the biological, environmental and psychological reasons behind the complexities of attitudes and actions. We seek to describe, explain, predict and change behavior and mental processes for the betterment of individuals of all ages, families, groups and society as a whole. 

At Marquette, you’ll work with professors who represent major areas of the discipline and are among the nation’s leading researchers. They’ll share their expertise with you in their classrooms. Students have the opportunity to obtain research and internship opportunities. 

The learning objectives we strive to impart to all psychology students are the abilities to:

  • Demonstrate satisfactory knowledge in psychology as a science.
  • Demonstrate satisfactory skills in psychology by applying the scientific process to psychological issues.
  • Demonstrate the ethical principles underlying research and practice in psychological science.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of diversity and multicultural issues as they apply to research, practice, and our personal and professional interactions.

In pursuit of these objectives, all students pursuing a B.A. in Psychology take courses from five different content areas: Developmental, Social, Biological Foundations of Behavior, Personal Processes, and Diversity and Inclusion. Within these areas, students can select from different courses, so that they can individualize their course of study to their interests and goals. 

Students who graduate with a B.A. in Psychology have a strong background in communication skills, critical thinking, scientific methodology, ethics and diversity. Our graduates are prepared to continue on to graduate school to earn master’s or doctoral degrees in psychology or psychology-related fields, such as counseling or social work. Other graduates go on to attend law, medical or dental school, programs in speech, occupational or physical therapy. Most graduates do not go on to earn advanced degrees. Most enter careers immediately after graduation. Because our graduates can think critically about behavior and mental processes, they can use their knowledge in almost any setting, including education, business, social service and human resources.