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
As a student in our psychology program, you will learn how to:
understand the fundamental concepts, issues, and interest areas of psychology, both
as a human science and a natural science.
think critically and creatively about human psychology and life as a whole.
engage critically and socially with the contemporary world, fostering appreciation
for its many forms of diversity.
work with and apply ethical principles, both personally and professionally.
prepare for careers and/or graduate study in psychology, social work, and counseling,
and in related fields such as education, business, law, health care, and human services.
cultivate your potential as distinctive individuals and participants in society.
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.
