Psychology is a science concerned with mind and behavior. The psychology program introduces students to a variety of ways to understand cognition, emotion, and behavior. In addition, the program prepares students for various career paths within psychology (community agencies and clinics, graduate study) or in other professions (business, education, public service).
Students who pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Assumption University are challenged to critically evaluate complex issues in today’s world. The curriculum requires students to sample from diverse courses that provide the foundation for understanding the major concepts and theoretical perspectives of psychology. Psychology majors also develop skills for understanding and conducting psychological research. The curriculum promotes personal growth and development and challenges students to critically evaluate complex social issues.
Students can explore opportunities for independent research and work in supervised fieldwork placements. The department apprises students of the many fields with which psychology shares borders of concern and inquiry in the pursuit of knowledge.
The psychology program faculty serves as teachers and mentors, helping students define their professional goals through classroom learning, research projects, community service learning, internships, and independent study.
Many students also pursue graduate degrees in a variety of areas including psychology, sociology, rehabilitative services and law. Assumption offers a nationally renowned graduate program in clinical counseling psychology, which is affiliated with the prestigious Aaron T. Beck Institute for Cognitive Studies, located on-campus in Worcester, MA. Assumption also offers a graduate program in applied behavior analysis that meets the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Examination®.
Learning Goals of the Major in Psychology
- Students will
- develop a strong psychological knowledge base
- sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills
- understand psychological applications and research methods
- develop a socio-cultural awareness
- plan effectively for their career, academic, and personal futures
An Ideal Place to Learn
Faculty
Experiential Learning
Assumption's Rome Campus
At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)
Explore the Rome CampusFaculty/Student Research
The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.Study Abroad
At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.Internships
Internships are a valuable way for you to gain experience outside of the classroom and to develop professional skills and insight. As part of their internship, psychology students complete an academic component that usually consists of a reflective journal, readings in the field, and a comprehensive research paper. There are two types of internships. Students can earn academic credit by working with an academic advisor and the internship site. Or students may participate in a career internship, which provides valuable experience but does not offer academic credit. All internships may be paid or unpaid and generally occur during or following junior year. Some recent internship locations have included:- Accelerated Learning Lab
- Charles River Center
- Community Healthlink
- Elderly Services of Worcester
- UMass Medical School
- Worcester Public Schools
- Worcester District Court
- Worcester Juvenile Court
Recent Employment Opportunities
The psychology program prepares students for successful and fulfilling careers in an array of fields, including nonprofit and entrepreneurial organizations, corporations, and local, state and federal government.
Outer Cape Health Services
Horace Mann Educational Associates
Mental Health Services
Ostrow and Company
Shire
University of Massachusetts Medical School
Community Health Link
Sovos Compliance
Baypath Elder Services
Lindsay Gomes
Psychology 2018
Pursuing a PhD in Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
“Not only are the professors extraordinary, but the knowledge I gained surpassed my expectations. I credit the success I had at my internship to Assumption. Because of the small classrooms and faculty-to-student ratio, students truly get to know their professors and develop relationships that lead to opportunities for mentorship, research, and collaboration.”
Holly Olson
Psychology 2018
“I worked in the Psychology labs on campus which was an incredible experience. I learned how to code and analyze data, and how to write up results of statistically significant findings. This research has required independence and time management skills, and I have developed a great relationship with one of my favorite professors.”
Hannah Fung
Psychology 2020
Honors Fellow, Assumption College Psychology Department
“Because of Assumption, I have grown in all areas of my life, academically and personally. Assumption’s strong Department of Psychology, full of caring and passionate professors, has provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge for my future career. Assumption is a community that’s helped me succeed, achieve my goals, and become a better person.”
Mikaela Newman
Psychology 2021
Research Fellow, Assumption University Learning and Memory Lab
“As a research fellow, I gained valuable knowledge on compiling a research study and analyzing data. My coursework at Assumption, especially psychology classes, provided a strong foundation and allowed me to be a more effective research assistant. The professors are always willing to get to know students and help them succeed to the best of their ability.”
Meghan Foster
Psychology 2020
Emergency Mental Health Intern, UMass Memorial Hospital; Mental Health Counselor, Walden Behavioral Care; Pursuing Master of Science in Mental Health at UMass Boston
“Through Assumption, my clinical experience at UMass landed me my first post-grad job. Assumption’s supportive, inclusive, and positive atmosphere sets it apart from any other institution. Assumption provided me with endless opportunities for research, conference presentations, and clinical experiences which all aided in my success and has allowed me to excel.”
Brianna Rondeau
Psychology 2020
Clinical Student Intern, UMass Medical School; Relief Counselor, Open Sky Community Services; Pursuing Master of Social Work at Bridgewater State University
“I took what I learned in class and saw it come to life through my internship. I learned how to advocate for myself and how to work with patients - a skill I will utilize in graduate school. I believe Assumption and the people here have made me search for myself and understand what I am meant to do.”
Cassandra Miller
Psychology 2020
Clinical Counseling Intern, Open Sky Community Services
“I was constantly provided opportunities from my professors and the CDIC to further my education. This was how I was able to obtain my internship at Open Sky and eventually my license as a registered behavior technician. You never know when an opportunity will pass, and Assumption provides so many.”
Kathryn Morgan
Human Services 2020
Direct Care Position, Jeremiah's Inn
“Prior to graduating, I was hired at the same place where I completed my internship. Assumption helped shape me into the passionate and driven person I am. The diverse course offerings and driven, passionate professors helped guide me in exploring various human services professions. I can truly say Assumption will be there to help you find your passion. ”
Carol D’Agostino
Psychology 2022
Honors Summer Fellowship and Honors Thesis; Intern at Balance Psychiatric Service
“Assumption has given me the knowledge and skills I need for a successful future. Not only does the curriculum support my career goals, but my professors have been there to guide me every step of the way! I have now participated in internships, earned scholarships, and have been offered a job at a psychiatric firm.”
Gertrude Cox
Psychology 2021
Psychology with a Concentration in Neuroscience of Human Behavior; Research Assistant, Psychology Department at Assumption University; Intern at City of Worcester Division of Public Health; House Parent at Casa de Esperanza
“My education at Assumption encouraged me to consider multiple viewpoints and solve complex problems. When working with children in the foster care system, I need to collaborate with several individuals and institutions. Taking courses in various subjects allowed me to integrate information from different contexts to ensure the best outcomes for the people I aim to serve.”
Patrick Davidson
Psychology 2022
Psychology with a Concentration in Mental Health and Pre-Clinical Counseling; Summer Research Fellow, Psychology Department at Assumption University; Volunteer, Seven Hills Foundation; Intern at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
“At Assumption, my professors bridged the gap between the theoretical and practical. Through my classes, research, and internship, I have become well rounded in the field of psychology. I have always wanted to help people with their day-to-day struggles. I feel confident that Assumption has given me the skills to attend graduate school and begin my career.”
Jennifer Doherty
Psychology 2021
Research Assistant, Psychology Department at Assumption University; Intern at Open Sky; Pursuing a M.A. in Mental Health Counseling at Boston College; Graduate Assistant at City Connects
“I was not only able to find my future career path but develop skills that would help me excel in it. Through research with professors and internship experiences Assumption helped me to find my passion and follow it. The small class sizes allowed me to learn the material efficiently and engage with professors in a way that cultivated knowledge and opportunity.”
Julia Mazzola
Psychology 2020
Psychology with a Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis; Level 2 Teacher at The New England Center for Children
“After working with Assumption’s Psychology faculty, I felt prepared entering my chosen career path. In both my Psychology major and Applied Behavior Analysis minor, Assumption’s professors have set me up for success by allowing me to develop meaningful relationships, enhancing not only my undergraduate studies, but also my advanced educational and occupational pursuits.”
First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting
Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.
Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost
We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.