The Psychology Department offers a wide variety of courses aimed at providing students with an understanding of behavior, both normal and abnormal; some classes lay the foundation for a career in psychology.

The major in psychology prepares students for employment in such settings as residential and treatment programs for handicapped individuals, and in drug rehabilitation facilities, although a master’s degree is the minimal educational requirement for many professional positions. A doctorate is required for clinical, counseling, or industrial practice, and for New York State certification as a psychologist.

At least half of the courses in the major, including the Advanced Experimental research course, must be taken at Queens College. Psychology 12 may not be credited toward the major in psychology, although it is credited toward the BA degree. Courses required for the major are offered every semester. Elective courses are offered either every semester or at least once a year. Students majoring in psychology are urged to avail themselves of the many advisory resources provided by the department. These include:

1. Day-student majors receive advisement from the chair and/or deputy chair. Evening-session majors receive advisement from the evening session coordinator.

2. Peer advisers. Peer advisers are available in the Psychology office, according to a schedule posted in the office.

3. The Psychology web page provides detailed materials concerning course selection, graduate school preparation, and career specialization.

4. Attendance at meetings with the chair during free hours prior to preregistration each semester.