Psychology (BA/BS)
Unlock the secrets of the human mind.
What drives human behavior? Why do people think, feel, and act the way they do? When you
choose to major or minor in psychology at Mary Baldwin, those questions are at the center of
your education. You’ll build real skills in research, critical thinking, and human connection
through coursework in the core domains of psychological science, opportunities to conduct
original empirical research, and professional internships — all alongside faculty who know
your name and your goals. Your degree will open doors in fields like mental health, education,
business, social services, and beyond.
- Time to Completion4 years
- FormatOnline, On Campus
- Degree(s)Bachelor of Arts,
Bachelor of Science - MinorPsychology
Next steps
Why study psychology at Mary Baldwin?
Our program goes beyond textbooks. In addition to a robust foundation in the major subfields of psychological science, MBU offers students high-impact experiences such as original empirical research and professional internships. Research may include collecting, analyzing, and interpreting your own data and preparing a manuscript of findings, with opportunities to present work at national and international professional conferences.
Internships offer the chance to apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings, from mental health agencies and schools to businesses and community organizations. Psychology students leave Mary Baldwin prepared and confident for whatever comes next, whether that’s the workforce or graduate school.
You can choose from in-demand areas of emphasis, including:
- Child Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Mental Health Work
- Neuroscience
Flexible Degree Options
Tailor your educational journey by pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology. Additionally, we offer psychology as a minor or post-baccalaureate certificate program, providing flexible options of study for students with diverse academic interests. The psychology program is available in-person at our Staunton campus and online.
A bachelor’s degree requires 120 credit hours of study.
Next steps
Zoe Kaufman ’26 Finds Her Focus in Psychology
Read More
Students love our courses
Here is just a sample of the engaging courses you’ll take as a psychology major:
A study of the major forms of abnormal behavior focusing on adult psychopathology. Topics include the definition and history of abnormal behavior, research methods, current theoretical perspectives classification, symptomatology and treatment of mental disorders, psychological health. Of special interest to prospective human service workers, including social workers, counselors, and teachers.
Application of psychological principles and research to legal issues. This course addresses police training in interrogation, profile generation, and how to deal with special victims. Trial issues such as pre-trial publicity effects, jury composition, and assisting lawyers with their presentation and cross- examination techniques are addressed. Special attention to how the legal system influences and is influenced by race, ethnic, religious, and cultural differences.
Current concepts regarding the relationship between brain function and behavior. Includes the gross anatomical characteristics of the nervous system, functional characteristics of neurons, research techniques used in neurophysiology, and the functional role of the nervous system with respect to arousal, pain, sensory processes, sleep, sexual behavior, brain disorders, emotion, learning, and motivation.
Explore issues of social justice through the lens of social psychology, with a strong emphasis on international perspectives, organizations and policies. Readings include recent empirical social-psychological literature on the major themes of this course, like: Human rights, human trafficking and prostitution, refugee experiences and issues, labor laws and rights, origins and responses to mass violence, peace and conflict resolution.
Explore the Neighborhood
This major is part of the Education & Society Neighborhood. Neighbors live together their first year, study and take classes together, and enjoy special curated activities.
Careers That Count
According to the American Psychological Association, a bachelor’s degree in psychology is versatile for across numerous career fields. Possible careers with a background in psychology include:
- Career Information Specialist
- Career/Employment Counselor
- Child Development Specialist
- Child Welfare/Placement Caseworker
- Disability Case Manager
- Employment Counselor
- Health Care Facility Administrator
- Human Resource Advisor
- Labor Relations Manager
- Market Research Analyst
- Occupational Analyst
- Preschool Teacher
- Project Evaluator
- Psychological Stress Evaluator
- Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist (PSR)
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Veterans Counselor
- Victims’ Advocate
You can also go on to graduate degrees in:
- Business
- Law
- Medicine
Specialize in specific areas of practice including:
- Animals
- Children
- Crime
- Rehabilitation
- Social work
- The environment
- The military
Next steps
The relationships I was able to build with instructors created such an amazing learning experience. And I can’t just single out one or two — so many of them went out of their way to help me discover my passion and figure out what I want to do for the future.
Cauy Duboise ’22Psychology major
Our Faculty
Our faculty are deeply invested in the academic and professional success of our students. With a passion for teaching, these educators go above and beyond, providing mentorship, personalized guidance, and exciting hands-on research opportunities.
Cost & Financial Aid
A great education is worth it. Mary Baldwin offers generous financial aid packages and a broad range of scholarships. Our mission is to help you bring your aspirations to life.
MBU helps you fast-track your path to a psychology degree with the opportunity to transfer up to 18 credits (6 courses) through direct course equivalents from the Virginia Community Colleges System.
