Minor Available
125 credits
125 credits
required for program
Minor Available
PSEO/Early College online classes
Department of Psychology, Criminal Justice, & Law Enforcement
Psychology
Department of Psychology, Criminal Justice, & Law Enforcement
Psychology
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Undergraduate
The psychology program is designed for you to study the human mind, understand God’s unique creation, and serve those struggling with mental illness. This degree will lay the perfect foundation for future graduate studies.
Psychology may be the right degree for you if you
- have a passion for serving
- desire to understand human nature
- want to pursue a career in a variety of industries
Why study psychology at Northwestern?
At UNW, students learn to appreciate the intricacies of the mind and its impact on behavior. They are taught clinically-oriented and data-proven strategies through a biblical worldview, as they study the theories and applications of psychology.
The Psychology program prepares students within a Christian context by educating them in four domains: psychological knowledge, scientific methodology, ethics, and communication skills.
The discipline of psychology seeks to understand the nature of human development, motivation, thinking, learning, and emotion. An accurate picture of an individual must include the study of Scriptures; therefore, the study of psychology is made complete by integrating it with biblical principles.
The study of psychology enables students to see themselves as persons of worth and significance. The study of psychology has practical value for Christian service. As we better understand people, we are more effective in our ability to minister to them. Students may earn a concentration in Forensic Psychology or Marriage & Family Counseling. Research and internship experiences help provide added value to their education.
Our expert, Christian faculty encourages students to stretch themselves spiritually and academically. They'll have the opportunity to participate in internships and the Directed Research program. Many present their research at the yearly Scholarship Symposium. With these opportunities, students develop a network of professionals to help build their resume.
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Dr. Melissa Mork
Dr. Melissa Mork is a psychology professor here at Northwestern, but when Dr. Mork isn't in the classroom she is still teaching, whether she is writing, recording episodes for her podcast Mental Health with Dr. Melissa Mork, or filming TikToks. Dr. Mork has experienced the loss of her parents, friends, children, and her first husband. These losses fueled her mission to help others who have experienced loss cope and work through their grief. Her heart for students is evident in the classroom as she teaches them clinically-oriented and data-proven strategies through a biblical worldview with real life experience to back up the theory.
Learn more about Dr. Mork through her book, "Bounce: From surviving to thriving through loss,” and her podcast, Mental Health with Dr. Melissa Mork.
What degree concentrations are offered in Psychology?
Psychology? We've got that.
Careers in psychology
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in psychology. The skills learned in the classroom are transferable and valuable in a variety of careers.
Some careers may require additional training or education.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Advocacy
- Case Management
- Crisis Work
- Intake or Screening
- Service Program Director or Coordinator
- Data Analysis or Test Development
- Adult Learning/Community Instruction
- Higher Education Administration and Student Support Services
- Student Development/Residential Life
- Marketing/Consumer Behavior Research
- Organizational Development
- Corporate Training and Development
- Sales or Customer Service
- Human Resources
- Mental Health Professional
- Rehabilitation Services
- Psychologist
- Applied Behavior Analyst
Who employs people with this degree?
- Non-profits or social/human service organizations
- Human resource departments
- Residential treatment and rehabilitation programs
- Hospitals and health care facilities
- Market research/Ad agencies
- Schools, colleges, & universities
- Church and parachurch organizations
- Parks and recreation programs
- Youth programs
- Clinics and counseling programs
- Adoption agencies
- Community education programs and services
- Educational testing companies
- Consulting firms
Strategies for success:
- Psychology provides a broad, liberal arts background, but practical experience (such as internships) will greatly enhance employability or admission to graduate school.
- Some students may choose to study psychology because they enjoy the subject but wish to pursue careers requiring “any major.” In this scenario, it is critical to develop desirable skills through internships, part-time or summer jobs, or volunteer experiences. Some skills valued most by employers include: communication, interpersonal, leadership, teamwork, and computer skills.
- Many entry-level helping positions are available. However, the amount of direct client contact is limited for those with a bachelor’s degree. Students may wish to pursue graduate education in psychology, social work, counseling, college student personnel, or other related fields to increase opportunities and earning potential. Research career fields to learn what type of degree (master’s, educational specialist, doctoral) and subject area are most appropriate.
- Many applied positions require licensure. This can take an additional one to three years of supervised experience after earning a graduate degree, depending upon state requirements.
87%
of Northwestern’s psychology graduates plan to pursue further education
90%
of seniors grew in their relationship with God during their time at Northwestern
93%
of Northwestern’s psychology graduates felt professionally prepared by their education
What will I learn?
Students will learn clinically oriented and data-proven strategies for engaging with the human mind.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
Our team is ready with answers!
Discover the Department of Psychology, Criminal Justice, & Law Enforcement
UNW Professors have practice in the field of psychology, bringing their real-world experience to the classroom as they equip students in this area of study.
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