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Psychology

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What is Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, or psyche. Using different theoretical models and methods of inquiry, the focus of psychology is on how individual and group characteristics are associated with and influenced by both internal and external factors, including physiology, the environment, society, culture, and spirituality.

Psychology at UAS

The Psychology curriculum at UAS is intended to provide a solid foundation in the core areas of the science, while also allowing students to individualize their educational experience. Students may elect either a primary or a secondary concentration area in Psychology, or simply enroll in courses of personal or professional interest.  They may enroll in Psychology courses to help prepare them for graduate or professional study in psychology, professional counseling, or marriage and family therapy.

Students who are pursuing a primary or secondary concentration in Psychology and looking for more direct, "hands on" exposure to the field may also choose to complete internships, a practicum, or a research or teaching assistantship for credit.

Program Opportunities

• Internships

In recent years, UAS students have completed internships with various community agencies, including the Juneau Alliance for Mental Health and the Alaska State Office of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

• Research

Students may engage in research with UAS professors or with various community and government agencies, studying such diverse topics as alcohol education and substance abuse prevention, and gender discrimination.

Careers in Psychology

A concentration in Psychology within the Bachelor of Arts in Social Science degree program should prepare a student for entry-level careers, such as:

• Assistants to professional psychologists in community mental health, vocational rehabilitation agencies, and correctional centers.

• Case managers in mental health, substance abuse, child protective services, and other government agencies.

• Paraprofessionals or entry-level positions in applied human or social services.

Graduate Study

A master's degree or doctorate is necessary for academic careers in psychology at universities and colleges. Graduate degrees are also required for many positions in mental health clinics, counseling and testing centers, schools, health or industrial centers, business and industry, or research agencies.

Students with a primary concentration in Psychology should meet the eligibility requirements for the application to the UAF/UAA Joint Ph.D. Program in Clinical-Community Psychology with Rural, Indigenous Emphasis. Students need to complete a statistics course, and complete social psychology, personality theories, or clinical and counseling psychology as one of their upper division course electives.

An undergraduate education in psychology is also beneficial for graduate training in related fields, such as social work, teaching and counselor education, human resources, and business management.

Course Work

Psychology may be either a primary or secondary concentration area within the Bachelor of Arts in Social Science degree program.

Psychology as Primary Concentration Area in Social Science (24 Credits)

Primary Concentration Requirements

Select from one of the following (3 credits)