Psychology
Psychology
The world needs more experts on the human brain. At Northwestern, you’ll become more than an expert—you’ll learn to understand the brain holistically and discover how human beings develop. You’ll also study what psychological functions are influenced by biology (nature) and the social world we live in (nurture). Whether you pursue a career as a mental health professional or use your degree elsewhere, Northwestern’s psychology program is a strong choice if you have brains…on the brain.
Why NWC?
You’ll be mentored by professors who are deeply passionate about the connections between mind, body and soul. Together you’ll navigate the integration of faith and evidence-based practice. You’ll also gain valuable research experience, collaborating with faculty and exploring areas of personal interest.
Major course topics include the psychology of personality, an introduction to clinical and counseling psychology, neuroscience, and learning and cognition. Related minors include psychology, developmental psychology and a psychology education endorsement (grades 7-12).
Department Chair
Outcomes
Northwestern psychology graduates have pursued advanced degrees in clinical, forensic, health, school and industrial/organizational psychology—as well as higher education administration, social work and special education. Grads say their research and writing experience set them apart in graduate school, and Northwestern’s liberal arts approach opened doors to careers in missions, education, art therapy and social services.
Join our standout alumni at:
#RaidersStandOut
Experience
Every psychology major is required to complete a senior research thesis, which alumni report to be excellent preparation for grad school. You may even have opportunities to co-author articles with professors or present research at regional and national conferences. In addition to on-campus research, your professors can help you find paid fellowships doing research that’s funded by the National Science Foundation.
We also offer off-campus study opportunities in Denver, Chicago and Romania, among other destinations. Applying your learning outside the classroom will equip you for service in the real world—increasing your understanding of human minds and cultures along the way.
If your goal is to become a clinical mental health or school counselor, you can apply to Northwestern’s master’s programs after graduation. We offer Master of Arts degrees in clinical mental health counseling and school counseling with coursework that’s 100% online.
Every psychology major is required to complete a senior research thesis, which alumni report to be excellent preparation for grad school. You may even have opportunities to co-author articles with professors or present research at regional and national conferences. In addition to on-campus research, your professors can help you find paid fellowships doing research that’s funded by the National Science Foundation.
We also offer off-campus study opportunities in Denver, Chicago and Romania, among other destinations. Applying your learning outside the classroom will equip you for service in the real world—increasing your understanding of human minds and cultures along the way.
If your goal is to become a clinical mental health or school counselor, you can apply to Northwestern’s master’s programs after graduation. We offer Master of Arts degrees in clinical mental health counseling and school counseling with coursework that’s 100% online.
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Faculty
Brilliant scholars. Committed Christians. Invested in you. That’s Northwestern’s faculty.
Dr. Jennifer Feenstra
Professor of Psychology; Department Chair
Dr. Jay Medenwaldt
Assistant Professor of Psychology
Dr. Rachael Wittern '08
Assistant Professor of Psychology
Dr. Laird Edman
Research Professor and Professor Emeritus of Psychology
