A major in psychology provides training in the scientific analysis of human thought and behavior, their expression and their development. The Scripps program emphasizes understanding human actions and reactions—mental or psychological processes—through experiences such as observation, participation, and experimental investigation. Students are afforded opportunities to gain experience through field placement at nearby institutions and through collaboration with ongoing faculty research projects. Such projects include studies of human development over the life span from childhood through adolescence to old age; the role of culture in psychological development; and the influence of others on one’s thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors.
An undergraduate psychology major at Scripps provides a solid foundation for advanced graduate training in clinical and research psychology. In addition, the major can be tailored to fit a variety of other career goals. These include careers in business and management, computer science, cognitive science, education, law, social work, and the health and medical fields.