STUDIES
At Redeemer, students who major in psychology are prepared for work in a variety of careers in human services, and they are also prepared to pursue graduate work in psychology or social work.
If you major in psychology, you will choose either the clinical track or the experimental track. While both tracks share some courses in common, if you are on the clinical track, you will take "applied" courses in abnormal psychology, behaviour modification, and counselling, whereas if you are on the experimental track, you will take "experimental" courses in cognitive psychology and physiological psychology. When you decide which track you want to follow, we encourage you to meet with your faculty advisor to design a program of study that suits your needs. Follow this link to see available courses.
No matter what track you follow, you will have the opportunity to complete an internship for course credit. The internship allows you to apply what you have learned in the classroom to the real world and, at the same time, explore a possible career area. Many of our students have found employment in the organization or agency in which they completed their internship.
Through your courses, you will acquire strong critical-thinking skills and discernment so as to approach the study of human behaviour thoughtfully, analytically, and creatively. You will learn how a Christian worldview applies to the study of human behaviour, and how we as Christians should deal with psychological theories and perspectives. We will evaluate psychological research and theories critically, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
You will learn good communication skills—both written and spoken. These skills are important for most careers. As well, you will learn how to identify and solve problems, conduct and evaluate scientific research and interpret statistics—skills that will serve you well if you pursue graduate work to obtain a Master's or Ph.D. degree.
In recent years, the department has added new courses in fields of psychology that have generated considerable interest—e.g., health psychology, forensic psychology, and the psychology of spirituality. Maintaining a current and relevant curriculum that makes the subject matter of psychology come to life is a top priority of all faculty members in the Psychology Department.
As a psychology student, you are encouraged to participate in the co-curricular activities outside the classroom. Get involved with a faculty member’s research. Attend presentations given by senior students or guest speakers. Become a teaching assistant or research assistant for one of our faculty members. Start a Psychology Club, along with other interested students. Your opportunities for learning and involvement extend beyond the walls of the classroom! So get involved!