Psychology Major Learning Outcomes

Goal 1: Knowledge Base in Psychology

• Describe and understand key concepts, theories, methodological approaches, findings and overarching themes in psychology
• Apply key concepts, theories, methodological approaches, findings and overarching themes in psychology
• Synthesize key concepts, theories, methodological approaches, findings and overarching themes in psychology

Goal 2:  Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking

• Accurately summarize research findings including interpreting graphs and statistical results using quantitative reasoning and statistical software
• Demonstrate information literacy through successful identification and evaluation of scholarly research and non-scholarly sources of information
• Demonstrate critical-thinking skills through accurate, in-depth explanations and quality of critical commentary
• Apply psychological concepts and theories, scientific reasoning and empirical evidence, rather than anecdotes or pseudoscience, when evaluating real-world scenarios

Goal 3:  Ethical and Social Responsibility in a Diverse World

• Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science and/or practice
• Recognize and articulate the importance of diversity and inclusion, including multicultural sensitivity and responsiveness
• Practice socially responsible values and cultural competency in the classroom and diverse professional settings such as research, internships and service learning

Goal 4: Appropriate Communication for the Discipline of Psychology

• Demonstrate proficient oral and written communication utilizing appropriate terminologies and APA style
• Use respectful language when communicating about people and psychological phenomena
• Practice professional communication skills with peers, faculty, staff, research participants and/or others in applied settings

Goal 5:  Professionalism and Career Preparation

• Practice a work ethic of personal responsibility and integrity throughout the pursuit of the degree
• Develop and practice project management skills in individual and group assignments and research endeavors
• Develop self-reflection and self-regulation in environments such as the classroom, teamwork, internships and research labs
• Recognize the broad applicability of a psychology major

(Sources: APA guidelines & Goucher College, feedback from CUR consultants)