Undergraduate FAQs
Here you will find the 10 most commonly asked questions regarding undergraduate studies in the Department of Psychology. If you have advising questions please email: psych.advising@wsu.edu.
- Q: What can you do with a Psychology Degree?
A: Listed below are just a few of the possibilities for employment once you receive your degree: - Q: Is Psychology the right major for me?
A: Psychology degrees from Washington State University prepare students to enter the job market in a wide variety of fields when teamed up with an adequate minor. Keep in mind your future goals when choosing a degree. The program is designed for those who: (a) wish to study psychology as part of a liberal education; (b) plan to use their training in related vocations such as the professions, governmental organizations, business and industry, and psychological services; and/or (c) are preparing for graduate work in psychology. - Q: What is the difference between the BS and the BA degree in Psychology?
A: Students seeking a graduate degree, such as MS or PhD, will choose the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Students who would like to go directly into the workforce may choose the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. To certify for the BS degree, you must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and complete Psych 311 (statistics) with a ‘C-‘ or better. To certify for the BA degree, a student must have a GPA of 2.0 and have completed 24 credits. The GER’s are the same for both degrees. - Q: What is the difference between clinical and counseling psychology?
A: Clinical and counseling psychologists engage in similar activities, including practice, research, teaching, consultation, and administration.
Clinical psychologists tend to work with more severely disturbed populations, whereas counseling psychologists tend to work with less pathological populations and conduct more vocational assessments. Thus, clinical psychologists are more likely to work at settings such as inpatient hospitals and VA centers, whereas counseling psychologists are more likely to work in university counseling centers. - Q: What should I do if I plan on going to graduate school?
A: To prepare for graduate school you should work closely with a faculty member. Graduate schools typically look for students who have: (a) research experience and clinical experience; (b) GRE scores above 1100; (c) grade point averages above 3.0. In addition, some students find it beneficial to get experience through a practicum (working in the community). - Q: How can I find out about research and TA opportunities within the Psychology Department?
A: For research opportunities, almost all faculty members in the Psychology Department have undergraduate research assistants. Check out the faculty web pages for the interest areas and then talk to the faculty member whose research most closely matches your interest.
For TA opportunities, check with your advisor, she will have a list of instructors who have mentioned they would like a TA. Also, check out the bulletin board on the second floor of Johnson Tower by the elevators, where some instructors post opportunities. - Q: Should I do a minor or a certificate?
A: Before choosing a minor or a certificate, evaluate your future goals. Do you want to work with children? If so, a Certificate in Abnormal Child Psychology is a good option. Do you want to do some sort of counseling? Then a Certificate in Helping Skills is for you. If you would like a general understanding of psychology, perhaps a minor is your best choice. - Q: Are there summer internships for undergraduate students?
A: The Psychology Department does not offer internships during the summer. There are sometimes research and TA opportunities during the summer. - Q: Advising – when and how does it work?
A: Before you can register each semester, you must meet with an advisor. Advising takes place in April (for Fall registration) and October (for Spring registration). Watch your email and the whiteboard outside of the main Psychology Office for dates and times. - Q: What are the certification requirements?
A: To certify for the BS in Psychology, you must complete Psych 311 with a ‘C-‘ or higher and have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. To certify for the BA in Psychology, you must have a total of 24 credits and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
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Remember that this is just a brief list of the opportunities that abound! Talk with a Psychology Faculty Member about career options.