Why Study Psychology at Milligan University?
Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty, and opportunities for hands-on learning. The program fosters critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a deep understanding of what drives human behavior. Graduates leave ready to make a positive impact in a variety of settings.
SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES & EDUCATION
BACHELOR OF ARTS, BACHELOR OF SCIENCE, MINOR IN PSYCHOLOGY
Career Paths for Psychology Majors
Milligan’s Psychology Major graduates pursue careers in diverse fields. Each path offers opportunities to apply their understanding of human behavior. These career options reflect the versatility of a psychology degree and its practical applications.
Potential Careers
Clinical Psychologist
Work with individuals to address mental health challenges.
School Counselor
Guide students in achieving academic and personal goals.
Human Resources Specialist
Improve workplace relationships and efficiency.
Behavioral Therapist
Support individuals facing behavioral or developmental issues.
Social Services
Help individuals and families overcome life’s difficulties.
Forensic Psychologist
Apply psychological principles in legal and criminal contexts.
Psychology
The field of Psychology has been undergoing rapid change. New professional opportunities are constantly evolving. In response to this change, students may choose one of two concentrations to fulfill the requirements for a degree in Psychology.
Concentrations
- General—This concentration offers flexibility while also ensuring that students have a broad understanding of the field and its applications. Students who plan to pursue teaching licensure or careers in related areas (e.g., youth ministry, occupational therapy) may find this concentration appealing.
- Pre-professional: This concentration prepares students for competitive post-graduate education in Psychology or related fields (e.g., clinical psychology, medicine). Students who pursue this concentration are required to demonstrate readiness for postdoctoral study through additional coursework, such as internships and independent research.
Outcomes
Student Outcomes
The specific outcomes of the psychology major are:
- Content Knowledge and Applications: Students demonstrate comprehension of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends, and empirical or evidence-based findings to discuss how psychological principles apply to behavior and mental processes.
- Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking: Students learn basic skills and concepts in interpreting behavior using research, studying research, and applying research design principles to draw appropriate conclusions about behavior. Students develop the ability to design, evaluate, and execute research plans.
- Values in Psychological Science: Students learn ethical reasoning and practices, interpersonal and intercultural responsiveness, and strategies that promote and sustain strong communities and equitable opportunities.
- Communication, Psychological Literacy, and Technology Skills: Students write and present effectively by accurately summarizing complex ideas and conclusions from psychological sources and research; students develop comprehensive and efficient strategies for locating and using relevant scholarship to investigate psychological questions.
- Personal and Professional Development: Students develop self-regulation, project management skills, professional judgment, collaboration skills, and proficiency in workplace technology and career planning.
(All outcomes are adapted from APA Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major, Version 3.0, August 2023)
3-Year Degree
3-Year Degree Option
The three-year bachelor’s degree option accelerates the traditional undergraduate process and is perfect for highly motivated students. With an academically rigorous schedule, students save time and reach the workforce or graduate school earlier while still gaining the skills and experience their career paths demand. You can still engage fully in campus life — be an athlete, lead a club, complete an internship (or two), conduct research with a professor, and be in on all the Milligan traditions.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Milligan Scholarships
Milligan offers over $10 million in institutional aid every year. Combined with state and federal aid, many students often pay no more than they would to attend a college at a lower cost. We’ll work with you individually every step of the way to help investigate all the options available for financing your education. We offer a full complement of need-based and merit-based scholarships, grants, and low-interest loans from federal, state, and institutional sources.
View Scholarships
External Scholarships
This resource features five curated scholarships endorsed by the American Psychology Association and a customizable database that allows students to search for psychology scholarships based on their interests, education level, and state.
External Scholarships
Psychology Faculty
Joy Drinnon
Director of Undergraduate Research; Professor of Psychology
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Expect To Study in the Psychology Major at Milligan University?
Milligan University’s Psychology Major offers a balanced and thorough curriculum that focuses on understanding human behavior, emotions, and thought processes. Students engage in courses exploring key areas, including Developmental Psychology, Social Behavior, Cognitive Processes, and Biological Influences on the Mind. Each Psychology course builds a foundational understanding of how people interact, grow, and respond to the world around them.
Research methods and data analysis are integral parts of the program. These courses teach students to gather, interpret, and present findings, skills essential for academic and professional success. Alongside academic rigor, Milligan integrates Christian principles into the classroom, encouraging students to reflect on how faith informs and shapes their application of general psychology.
Students also study topics related to psychological ethics, ensuring that they approach their work with integrity and respect for the dignity of others. Focusing on technical knowledge and personal growth prepares students for meaningful contributions in their chosen careers or advanced studies.
Milligan’s supportive faculty guides students through their academic journey, offering mentorship and personalized feedback in small class settings. This personal attention ensures that students are learning and applying knowledge.
How Does Faith Play a Role in the Psychology Program?
At Milligan University, the Psychology Major is deeply rooted in the belief that faith and science complement one another. This perspective shapes how students learn about human behavior and approach their future roles in the field.
Faith integration happens in various ways throughout the program. Professors incorporate Christian perspectives into lectures and assignments, creating opportunities for students to explore questions about morality, service, and the human condition. Students examine topics like the nature of empathy, ethical decision-making, and the spiritual aspects of mental health. These discussions help students develop a holistic view of the field, blending scientific insights with values like compassion and stewardship.
This unique approach encourages students to use their skills and knowledge to serve others. Graduates often carry these principles into their careers, seeking roles that allow them to make meaningful contributions to individuals and communities. Whether pursuing counseling, research, or another path, students leave with the tools to approach their work with integrity and care.
What Hands-On Opportunities Are Available in the Program?
Milligan’s Psychology Major provides multiple opportunities for students to apply what they learn in real-world settings. Through internships, research projects, and service-learning opportunities, students gain valuable experience that prepares them for graduate study or professional roles.
Understanding the science behind psychological principles is also integral to the program. Working alongside faculty, students design and conduct studies that address questions about behavior, cognition, or social dynamics. These projects teach students to collect and analyze data while fostering
problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Presenting their findings at academic conferences or campus events helps students build confidence and communication abilities.
Service-learning is another way students connect their education to the world around them. By partnering with organizations that address community needs, students see firsthand how psychology can improve lives. These experiences reinforce Milligan’s mission to cultivate servant-leaders who use their talents to make a positive impact.
How Does Milligan Prepare Students for Graduate School?
Milligan’s Psychology program is designed to give students the tools they need to succeed in graduate studies. The curriculum emphasizes academic rigor, ensuring students have a solid foundation in research methods, statistical analysis, and core psychological principles. These skills are critical for advanced education in counseling, clinical psychology, or social work.
Faculty mentorship plays a significant role in preparing students for graduate programs. Professors provide personalized guidance, helping students identify programs that align with their career goals. They also assist with application materials, including letters of recommendation and personal statements. This one-on-one support helps students present a compelling case for admission to competitive programs.
Research opportunities further strengthen graduate school applications. Students gain experience designing studies, analyzing data, and presenting results through independent or collaborative projects. These experiences build expertise and demonstrate a commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.
Milligan’s emphasis on faith and ethics also sets its graduates apart. Students enter graduate school with a clear sense of purpose and a desire to serve others, traits that resonate with programs in social psychology seeking well-rounded, motivated candidates.
Are There Opportunities To Specialize Within the Psychology Major?
Milligan’s Psychology Major offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their education to match their interests and career goals. While the program provides a strong foundation in core areas like research methods, cognitive psychology, and social behavior, students can pursue specialized topics through elective courses and independent research.
For instance, students interested in counseling might focus on developmental psychology and mental health courses. In contrast, those drawn to sports psychology may pair the major with courses in exercise science. Faculty members work closely with students to help them choose electives and projects that align with their professional aspirations.
Internships and research opportunities further allow for specialization. Students collaborate with local organizations, such as schools, healthcare providers, or community groups, gaining experience in specific areas of interest. By tailoring their education, students graduate with the skills and expertise needed to stand out in their chosen fields or pursue advanced study in specialized areas of psychology.
What Kind of Support Does Milligan Offer Psychology Students?
Milligan University provides a supportive and nurturing environment for Psychology students. Academic advising ensures students stay on track with their degree requirements and make informed decisions about electives, internships, and career planning. Faculty members are accessible and dedicated to mentoring students, offering guidance both in and outside the classroom.
Career services at Milligan help students major in psychology prepare to transition to professional life or graduate school. Resources include resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. The university also offers networking opportunities, connecting students with alumni and professionals in psychology-related fields.
Milligan’s commitment to personal growth goes beyond academics. Spiritual growth opportunities, campus ministries, and community service projects encourage students to develop a sense of purpose and mission. These resources provide holistic support, equipping students for success both during their time at Milligan and after graduation.