Department of Psychology

Simpson (department head)

(SYMBOL: PSY)

The Department of Psychology offers courses designed to introduce students to the empirical study of behavior and mental processes from the perspective of both natural revelation (scientific investigation) and special revelation (scriptural principles). The Psychology degree is solidly grounded in the Christian liberal arts tradition.

Students completing the Psychology degree at John Brown University will be grounded in the core tenets of the discipline of psychology while gaining practical training and experience in psychology through supervised field experiences. Another key aspect of the Psychology major is a consistent and intentional integration of a Christian worldview with the discipline.

Psychology students are prepared both for graduate training in psychology or related fields and for service in a variety of community mental health, Church-based and other social service settings, working under supervisors with advanced graduate training. Psychology faculty mentors provide students with advice and assistance in the transition to graduate study or employment. Graduates from the department have been successful in gaining entry to graduate schools in psychology, counseling, and social work as well as law school. Employment as a psychologist or licensed counselor will require further graduate study in psychology or social work but the psychology baccalaureate degree is valued by employers for providing an excellent liberal arts foundation for careers in business, church work, welfare work, or any other area where an understanding of the human mind and interpersonal relationships may be beneficial.