Duquesne University’s Psychology Faculty are well known for our expertise in human science psychology. Our approach can be contrasted to natural science psychology, which developed in
the late 1800s, and was modeled after natural sciences such as physics and biology.
A human science approach addresses questions of meaning, values, experience, history, culture and power is well suited
for studying love, dreams, spirituality, interpersonal relationships, gender roles,
race issues, and so on.
Our faculty believe that human science approaches provide an illuminating path to
grasp the full depth and subtlety of human experience.
What does this mean for undergraduate students?
Our Psychology Department's emphasis on the human science perspective means that coursework
aims to foster critical thinking, ethical reflection and creative attention to the nature of psychological life.
Many find they are better prepared for a path that leads to a helping profession.
"My favorite part about being a psychology major is the humanistic and existential
approach. Duquesne is one of the few schools that offer a human science program like
this, and it is interesting to learn about that aspect of psychology."
Noah Madden, Senior Psychology Major
Program Information
Traditional, in-person psychology program focusing on the human science and natural
science approaches.
PSYC 411 Post-structural and Critical Psychology (3 cr.)
PSYC 412 Psycholanalytic Psychology (3 cr.)
PSYC 413 Humanistic and Transpersonal Psychology (3 cr.)
Students must also select six additional credits in Psychology courses (from the courses
listed above and/or elective courses)
PSYC 399 Professional Preparation for Psychology Majors (1.5 cr.)
PSYC 480 Psychology & Community Engagement (3 cr.)
Learning Outcomes
In addition to the Liberal Arts General Outcomes for all Undergraduate Degree Areas,
students in the B.A. in Psychology program will demonstrate the following general
competencies:
Students will participate in professional development activities to prepare themselves
for careers and/or graduate studies in psychology and related fields.
Students will consider the implications of sociocultural diversity for the interpretation
and application of psychological theories and research findings.
Students will demonstrate the use of critical and creative thinking.
Students will communicate effectively in written work.
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental concepts and theoretical perspectives
of psychology.
Minor in Psychology
Add a psychology minor to your primary course of study.
Students interested in minoring in Psychology must complete the following requirements:
PSYC 101 Introduction to Psychology (3 cr.)
PSYC 203 Introduction to Psychology as a Human Science (3 cr.)
9 other psychology credits taken through Duquesne University's Department of Psychology.
Twelve of these credits must be taken as psychology courses within the Department
of Psychology at Duquesne University.
