B.A. in Psychology

The field of psychology is wide-ranging; virtually any aspect of human behavior and development can be viewed from a psychological perspective. Psychologists work in many different settings, including colleges and universities, government agencies, schools, businesses, and clinics, and do a variety of jobs, from teaching to counseling to conducting research.

The Psychology Department at Geneseo aims to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of the scientific discipline of psychology, opportunities for practical experience, and growth in the understanding of self and others. The Department emphasizes excellence in teaching and active student involvement in scientific empirical research and applied internships.

Research and Internships

Research and internships both provide students with valuable experience and enhance chances of admission to graduate school. The Geneseo Psychology Department offers exceptional opportunities for students to engage in scholarly research with faculty members. Current research projects involving students include studies of sibling and peer relationships in children and adolescents, visual attention, neuroimaging of cognitive processes, posttraumatic stress disorder, relationship dynamics, sexual aggression, mortality awareness, happiness, threat and prejudice, motivation and school achievement, lexical processing, neurotoxicology of flame-retardant chemicals, and sleep and health-related behaviors.

During the junior and senior year, psychology majors can apply for community internships in a variety of settings, including businesses, schools, and agencies serving children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Teaching internships are also available in the Psychology Department, giving students the opportunity to assist professors in a variety of classes.

Founded in 1871 as a school for teachers, Geneseo has evolved into one of the premier public liberal arts colleges in the country.

As one of the most selective public colleges in the country, Geneseo is highly ranked in national publications for academic quality and value. The undergraduate research grants program allows a host of students to engage in a wide variety of research with Geneseo faculty members and present papers at regional and national meetings.

Geneseo offers 49 undergraduate majors and an array of dual degree and international study programs, including humanities courses in England and Europe each summer, including our core Humanities courses taught in England and Europe each summer.

Student activities include NCAA Division III athletics (2005 national championship in women’s cross-country); 200 student organizations (including 11 student multicultural groups); an active student government; community service opportunities; and a variety of distinguished speakers and cultural events each year. The College also offers a nationally award-winning student leadership program and a nationally award-winning community/college collaboration dedicated to rebuilding areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina.