Program Summary
The design of the Psychology Major at William Jessup University is based upon the recommendations contained in the report of the Task Force on Undergraduate Psychology Major Competencies appointed by the American Psychological Association's Board of Educational Affairs, 2000. In their report, Undergraduate Psychology Major: Learning Goals and Outcomes, ten goals and related learning outcomes are suggested for the undergraduate psychology major. These goals and learning outcomes have informed program design, course development, and assessment plans for the Psychology degree at WJU.
The courses offered within our degree program provide the necessary breadth to prepare students for graduate school and a wide range of specializations in the field. Additionally, the courses prepare students for entry level positions in the helping professions. Some students will elect not to go on to graduate school immediately upon graduation. It is our goal, as we provide optional concentrations, to allow the student the best of both worlds--a degree that prepares them with the breadth needed for graduate work, and a concentration that allows them to develop some depth in specific area a psychology. Pre-graduate school is a strong emphasis in the program because it provides the academic challenge which our best students need, regardless of their career goals, and it also provides the basis by which the quality of the program is judged.
The psychology degree is 52 units, which includes:
| Required courses | 31 units |
| Psychology electives | 9 units |
| Concentration | 12 units |
The American Psychological Association's Division Structure has informed the development of concentrations within the major. At WJU these concentrations include:
| Clinical Psychology | 12 units |
| Developmental Psychology | 12 units |
| Community Mental Health | 12 units |
| International Psychology | 12 units |
| General Psychology | 12 units |
Mission Statement
The mission of the psychology program is to provide a foundation as students develop their capacities for work in the helping professions in both secular and sacred settings.
The psychology degree prepares students for the soul care dimensions of work with individuals and families. The foundational assumption of the program is that humankind was designed to live in committed relationships from cradle to grave. Thus, healthy attachment is foundational to restoring individuals to wholeness.
The program equips individuals with critical thinking skills that are scripturally based and methods that are culturally sensitive and clinically sound. For some, the major will provide foundational studies in preparation for graduate school in the helping professions. Graduates who seek advanced education, typically choose advanced studies in psychology, counseling, or social work. Others will apply this degree to work within mental health settings immediately after graduation and/or utilize the relational skills gained in this program in a wide range of careers, including business, human services, and ministry.
Core Values:
Leaders in the psychology department value the development of a Christian world view in all graduates, academic excellence in teaching and learning, and continuous transformation toward wholeness in both the professors and the students.
In order to accomplish the program mission, the faculty is committed to:
- Offering a curriculum that reflects the importance of responsible integration-- considering the wisdom available in both special and general revelation.
- Exposing students to relevant theoretical frameworks that provide clarity and guidance for understanding the human condition.
- Mentoring students in the development of skills that are considered state of the art in the application of the both a psychological and theological knowledge base.
- Challenging students toward personal wholeness, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually.
- Assisting students as they find direction for their personal and professional lives
- Motivating students toward a life of service
A graduate should demonstrate:
- Integration of their faith and knowledge of scripture with the study of human needs.
- Understanding of the process of human growth and development in the context of family, community, culture, and ethnicity.
- Knowledge of basic theoretical frameworks, empirical findings, and historical trends in the study of human personality and problems.
- Understanding and application of basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation, demonstrating information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes.
- Utilization of critical thinking skills, unbiased inquiry, and a creative approach to problem solving related to understanding behavior and mental processes.
- A responsible approach to the application of psychology within a Christian worldview. This will include the abilities to weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, and act ethically.
- Skillful communication with both individuals and groups.
- An ability to interview, assess, develop treatment plans, carry out interventions, and evaluate progress in helping relationships, utilizing community resources appropriately and effectively as part of the helping process.
- Recognition of the limitations of their training and the ability to refer to specialized helping professionals when appropriate.
- Increased self-awareness, self-understanding, and growth in personal wholeness, emerging from the major with ideas about how to pursue their calling in academia and/or occupational settings.