Department of Psychological ScienceAcademics
About the Department
Big Questions of the Mind Applied to the World
If you're passionate about the way the mind works - how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors operate - psychology is the field for you. Psychological science is a vast discipline committed to understanding how functions of the brain and mind underlie human and nonhuman behavior. This social science is poised to address society's big questions and challenges, from prejudice and bias to multi-sensory perception and memory. In the Gustavus Department of Psychological Science, you will be immersed in courses that put science and research into practice. You will learn to formulate psychological research questions, lead experiments, collect and analyze data, and present the findings.
A Top-Tier Psychology Department In Minnesota
When you join the Psychological Science program at Gustavus Adolphus, you become part of one of the most popular majors at the College. Located in Saint Peter, MN, the stunning Gustavus Adolphus campus is a perfect place to build close-knit relationships with friends and classmates and have proximity to big-city opportunities. You're minutes away from the medium-sized city of Mankato and an hour from the dynamic Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. On campus and beyond, award-winning faculty are committed to your growth and success.
Discover your path:
Majors, Minors, and Related Programs
The Psychological Science program combines lectures, class discussions, individual and group projects, and hands-on research labs. As you progress through the program, you will create your own specialization by choosing courses that match your interests. Instructors collaborate with and mentor students directly. Students frequently present at national conferences and co-publish their research with faculty. Graduates of the program are successful in a variety of industries, including human resources, counseling, forensics, medicine, public service, education, law, and marketing.
Related Programs
Student and Faculty Research That Addresses Big Issues
The Department of Psychological Science's students and faculty are working together to promote social change and improve lives. Through community-engaged learning and lab projects, they investigate major issues, such as racism and sexual violence, and work with businesses and non-profit organizations to create healthier individuals and communities. Through evidence-based learning and data analysis, you'll have the opportunity to explore areas such as mental health, social justice, learning, brain function, and child development. This collaborative environment puts knowledge into practice, helping you make a difference while you build real-world skills in the field.
Opportunities in Psychological Science
Taking Psychology Beyond Textbooks
The Department of Psychological Science prides itself on providing a wealth of valuable learning opportunities, from study-away programs and internships to community-engaged learning. The activities and exploration you do as a Psychology student help you identify career goals and the skills and steps for achieving them. Explore the many ways to engage with Psychological Science.
Explore Opportunities in Psychological Science
- Research — Collaborate with faculty engaged in diverse and important research topics
- Internship — Apply your knowledge in real-world settings, network with professionals, and gain valuable insights into your career path
- Careers and Graduate School — Receive guidance and resources to launch into a career or grad school
- Community-Engaged Learning — Work with partners off campus to deepen your classroom learning
- Student Clubs — Have fun and build relationships with others interested in psychology
- Study Away — Immerse yourself in another culture while continuing your academic coursework
- Student Honors and Awards — Earn recognition for your commitment to and academic excellence in psychological science inside and outside the classroom
Gusties
will
Shine
Faculty and students in Psychological Science are committed to growing our understanding of the brain, the mind, and behaviors in human and nonhuman animals. Learn more about how students and faculty apply knowledge from the discipline to improve the world.
Jennifer Ackil
Psychological Science
“Inspiration, interesting ideas, and opportunities for growth are everywhere and diving into an area of study that piques your interest can be life changing.” What are your areas of research and teaching expertise? I am a cognitive psychologist and thus, interested in the mind and how it works. I conduct research examining various aspects of […]
Keep in Touch with the Psychological Science Department
Studying psychology provides a solid foundation for understanding human behavior and prepares you for a fulfilling and impactful career. At Gustavus, you'll be part of an outstanding college with plenty to keep you busy. You can get engaged across campus in a wide variety of clubs, fine arts, athletics, and more. A liberal arts education plus involvement on campus prepare holistic graduates ready to lead.
Contact Psychological Science
Email: psychology-dept@gustavus.eduPhone: 507-933-7413
Beck Academic Hall, 252
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082