Psychology

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Psychology is the discipline that uses methods of science in an attempt to provide answers to the age old question of why people have certain behaviors, thoughts and feelings. The curriculum follows guidelines established by the American Psychological Association- within the context of a Christian worldview. Study topics like human development, social psychology, organizational psychology, psychobiology, statistical methods and more. You’ll understand research methods, including experiment design and analysis.

Psychology Course Requirements

Uniqueness

At MNU, we believe in the disciplined study of psychology in light of our Christian worldview. You’ll be challenged to think about human functioning and explore the social, developmental, neuropsychological, and biological aspects of human functioning. You’ll also have the opportunity to pursue advanced research in close collaboration with faculty members, gaining sought-after research experience.

Senior Comprehensive Exam

All senior psychology majors must pass a comprehensive examination before graduation. The exam is given each February and seniors who fail must retake the examination, and make a passing score. For more information, view the Senior Comp Page.

Interested in Graduate School after completing your B.A. in Psychology? Visit the Graduate School page for more information.

Psychology Department Teaching Objectives

Students will demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical systems and empirical findings in psychology (current & historic) specifically related to developmental concerns, biological influences, normal and abnormal behavior and mental processes.
Students will grasp the importance of research to the field of psychology and demonstrate an applied understanding of basic research methods, including experimental design, data analysis and interpretation.
Students will understand and be exposed to the application of psychological principles to personal, professional and social issues.
Students will realize the diversity of psychology as a discipline, explain the ethical principles that guide the field and qualify for employment or graduate study.
Students will evaluate the field of psychology from a Christian worldview and demonstrate critical thinking skills, toleration of ambiguity and sensitivity to diversity.

Internships

During your studies, you will complete an internship, providing exposure to the day-to-day life in psychology related professions. MNU Psychology majors have interned at many of the following businesses:

Advice & Aid Pregnancy Center
Alliance on Aging
CommunityWorks, Inc.
Heart to Heart International
Johnson County Juvenile Detention Center
Kansas City Urban Youth Center
Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault
Olathe School District
Salvation Army: Family Lodge
TLC for Children & Families

Career Opportunities

Psychology is a flexible and versatile degree, offering great preparation for a number of careers or graduate programs in business, medicine or law. Many psychology majors go into the following positions:

Psychologist (with further education)
Professional Counselor (with further education)
Admissions Counselor
Behavior Analyst
Child Protection Worker
Community Relations Representative
Employment Counselor
Public Relations Manager
Marketing Researcher
Non-profit Service Manager
Social Worker (with further education)
Therapist

Contact

Dr. Earl Bland
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913.971.3617