Psychological Science

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The CMC Psychological Science major prepares students to use psychological concepts and methods in everyday life. Students receive a broad knowledge and hands-on experiences in applied, professional, and scientific psychology. Courses emphasize the application of psychology to current social issues. Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty, especially conducting research in their labs.

Many students combine Psychological Science with other majors (e.g., Economics, Government, Biology) and add interdisciplinary sequences in Leadership, Data Science, Legal Studies, and Neuroscience to develop expertise that will expand their career options.

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Psychological Science Major

Psychological Science courses provide an understanding of human and social processes relevant for a variety of careers. This major is relevant for students students interested in graduate study or using it as a foundation for other careers. CMC Psychological Science majors have developed professional roles in mental health care, education, law, administration, health care, business, public service, data science, and user experience. Given the diversity in students’ career interests and the richness of course offerings available across The Claremont Colleges, students are encouraged to work closely with faculty, especially conducting research both in labs and in the community. Our program provides many opportunities for students to get hands-on experience working in research laboratories. This participation allows students opportunities for course credit, paid research assistantships and summer internships. 

International Students: Psychological Science is an approved ICE STEM major that allows international students to extend their VISAs (https://www.apa.org/science/about/psa/2011/05/visa-extensions).

Research Labs and Institutes

Lab work

A great way to learn about psychological science and gain valuable, hands-on experience is to work in the research laboratories run by CMC Psychological Science faculty.

Central to the Psych major experience is the involvement of students in research projects. Students work directly with faculty either on existing projects or develop their own research studies. Laboratory opportunities provide hands-on experience in current research methods in Psychological Science. 

Internships (see Careers, Internships, & Graduate School) provide off campus learning experiences in clinical and other types of work environments.

In addition to the research labs, many Psychological Science students are active in CMC’s research institutes as research assistants. The Centers also provide support for internships and research through a range of fellowships for which students can apply.

Fellowships and National Awards

Psychological Science majors are well-positioned to apply for a range of prestigious fellowships, including the Fulbright, Goldwater, Rhodes, Gates-Cambridge, Pickering, Scoville, Luce, and many more. CMC provides tremendous support to students as they apply for these and encourages students to consider these wonderful opportunities. Visit the Fellowships office to learn more!

Department News


Perri McElvain standing on campus
 
Perri McElvain ’25: Using responsible leadership to improve the CMC community
Perri McElvain ’25

Psychological Science major with Data Science Sequence

Professor Stacey Doan in class.
 
Professor Stacey Doan leads groundbreaking studies on resilience

For CMC Professor Stacey Doan, resilience is personal. Her family, who are Vietnam War refugees, faced unimaginable hardship fleeing a war-torn country. She grew up in a neighborhood where violence was rampant and drug use was common.

Wei-Chin Hwang.
 
Professor Wei-Chin Hwang: Focused on mental health in the Asian American community
Destigmatizing mental health treatment in the Asian American community, as well as understanding the importance of cultural adapted treatment, is at the heart of Professor Wei-Chin Hwang’s scholarly mission.