Department of Psychology

Lorinda B. Camparo
Joanne Hash-Converse
Charles T. Hill, Chair
Kayoko Okada
Christina L. Scott
Ayesha Shaikh

Why do people act the way they do? Psychology is an academic and applied science that examines behavior using various research methods. Psychology courses at Whittier College provide background in the social, cultural, developmental, emotional, cognitive, mental, and biological bases of behavior. The primary goal of Whittier’s psychology curriculum is to enable students to think like psychologists. Achieving this goal requires development of critical thinking and communication skills as well as thorough knowledge of psychological theories and research methods. Coordinated programs across the psychology curriculum emphasize writing, research, and diversity. In addition, the psychology department promotes personal development, including clarification of one’s values, self-awareness, understanding others of diverse backgrounds, and career planning through course work and participation in Psychology Club and Psi Chi Honor Society activities. Psychology majors may also engage in collaborative research with faculty, attend and present research at professional conferences, and participate in fieldwork to gain practical experience in applying psychology. Majors are broadly prepared for graduate studies and for fields of employment that apply methods and principles of psychology. Previous majors have pursued a wide range of careers in specific branches of psychology as well as social services, medicine, business, education, the arts, international relations, and law.

Catalog

Department of Psychology

Programs

Courses