UMass Lowell's psychology major empowers you to understand what drives human behavior and turn that insight into real-world impact across diverse careers.

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Two students present their poster at the Student Research Symposium.

As a psychology major, you’ll explore mental health, human development and behavior analysis, while building research and communication skills. 

UMass Lowell’s psychology program stands out for its strong focus on research and hands-on learning. Collaborate with faculty on research projects and gain career experience through placements at organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Lowell Public Schools.  

With a solid understanding of the principles, ethics and methods of psychology, you'll be well-prepared for graduate school or work in counseling, education, healthcare, social work or business. 

Learn about our online Bachelor's in Psychology.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Psychology?

Our graduates are prepared for careers in diverse fields, including: 

  • Mental health
  • Education
  • Research
  • Social work
  • Public relations  
  • Business
  • Human resources
Psychology student Jared Socolow headshot

Career Placements

  • Boston University
  • UMass Lowell
  • Progressive
  • JetBlue
  • Applied Behavior Institute (ABI New England)
  • The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

    Year-by-Year Course Plan

    Check out our degree pathways, which offer sample plans for completing your degree in four years.

    For students who entered fall 2022 and beyond.

    Freshman Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1010 /
    HONR.1100
    College Writing I /
    First Year Seminar in Honors: Text in the City (CW)
    3
    FAHS.1090First Year Experience Seminar41
    PSYC.1010Introduction to Psychological Science3
    MATH.xxxxMath Perspective (MATH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 1 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1020College Writing II (CW)3
    PSYC.2600Child and Adolescent Development (SRE)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 2 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxScience with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    Total16

    Sophomore Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2690Research I: Methods (IL), (CTPS)13
    PSYC.2320 /
    PSYC.2720
    Psychology of Personality /
    Abnormal Psychology
    3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 3 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective3
    3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2090 /
    PSYC.2550
    Social Psychology /
    Community Psychology (DCA)
    3
    PSYC.27xxBasic Processes Elective23
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Perspective (STEM)3
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 4 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective3
    3
    Total15

    Junior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3690Research II: Statistics (QL)13
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxWorld Ready Elective3 /
    Free Elective
    3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Senior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.47xxAdvanced Seminar (AIL), (WOC)53
    PSYC.3/4xxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.4xxxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Total Minimum Credits = 120.

    1Students must earn a grade of C or higher.

    2Choose from PSYC.2730, PSYC.2760, PSYC.2770 or PSYC.2780.

    3World Ready Language Track (WR track) requires successful completion of a two course sequence in a World Language (depending on placement) and three approved courses on the culture/history/literature/film related to that language, but taught in English. (Total of 15 credits.) For detailed information refer to Policies - Language Requirements in the undergraduate catalog. The World Language requirement for Psychology majors can be met with sign language courses taken at Northern Essex Community College (NECC). More information about this policy is available on the Psychology Department website. For information about the sign language courses and program at NECC, please visit NECC website. As with all off-campus courses, students taking sign language courses at NECC must complete a Prior Authorization for Off Campus Courses form.

    4Required for entering Freshmen in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

    5Choose from PSYC.4710, PSYC.4730, PSYC.4740, PSYC.4750, PSYC.4770, PSYC.4780 or PSYC.4790.

    A major in Psychology consists of 36-54 psychology credits with at least 18 credits at the 3000 level or higher. Students transferring to the college and wishing to major in Psychology must make individual arrangements with the department chairperson regarding satisfaction of major course requirements. To graduate with a Psychology degree, students must have a 2.200 GPA in psychology courses and an overall minimum GPA of 2.000.

    No more than two Breadth of Knowledge courses can be taken with the same prefix. The Core Curriculum courses may be taken in any sequence. Refer to the Core Curriculum policy for further details. You should meet with your faculty adviser to determine how you will meet the Core Curriculum requirements.

    Current UMass Lowell students should be using their Advisement Report in SiS. If you need assistance, please contact your adviser.

    Restriction on off-campus study:

    Be advised that any course taken at another institution must be formally approved prior to enrollment.

    See the catalog policy for details.

    Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Glossary

    • SS - Social Sciences Perspective - 9 credits
    • AH - Arts and Humanities Perspective - 9 credits
    • SCL - Sciences with Lab Perspective - 6 credits
    • STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Perspective - 3 credits
    • CW - College Writing I and II - 6 credits
    • MATH - Math Perspective - 3 credits

    Read more about the Breadth of Knowledge requirements.

    Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO) Glossary

    • AIL - Applied and Integrative Learning
    • CTPS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
    • DCA - Diversity and Cultural Awareness
    • IL - Information Literacy
    • QL - Quantitative Literacy
    • SRE - Social Responsibility and Ethics
    • WOC - Written and Oral Communication

    Read more about the Essential Learning Outcomes.

    For students who entered fall 2025 and beyond.

    Freshman Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1010 /
    HONR.1100
    College Writing I /
    First Year Seminar in Honors: Text in the City (CW)
    3
    FAHS.1090First Year Experience Seminar31
    PSYC.1010Introduction to Psychological Science3
    MATH.xxxxMath Perspective  (MATH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 1 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1020College Writing II (CW)3
    PSYC.2600Child and Adolescent Development (SRE)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 2 and Culture3
    Total16

    Sophomore Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2690Research Methods (IL), (CTPS)13
    PSYC.2320 /
    PSYC.2720
    Psychology of Personality /
    Abnormal Psychology
    3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxSciences with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 3 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective2
    3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    Total15
    PSYC.2090 /
    PSYC.2550
    Social Psychology /
    Community Psychology (DCA)
    3
    PSYC.2760Theories of Learning3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Perspective (STEM)3
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 4 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective2
    3

    Junior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3690Research Statistics (QL)13
    PSYC.3120Learning and Behavior3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxWorld Ready Elective2 /
    Free Elective
    3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Senior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.4790Seminar in Behavioral Psychology (WOC), (AIL)3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total12

    Total Minimum Credits = 120

    Minimum [major] Credits: 36

    Maximum [major] that can be counted toward graduation: 54

    1Students must earn a grade of D or higher.

    2World Ready Language Track (WR track) requires successful completion of a two course sequence in a World Language (depending on placement) and three approved courses on the culture/history/literature/film related to that language, but taught in English. (Total of 15 credits.) For detailed information refer to Policies - Language Requirements in the undergraduate catalog. The World Language requirement for Psychology majors can be met with sign language courses taken at Northern Essex Community College (NECC). More information about this policy is available on the Psychology Department website. For information about the sign language courses and program at NECC, please visit NECC website. As with all off-campus courses, students taking sign language courses at NECC must complete a Prior Authorization for Off Campus Courses form.

    3Required for entering Freshmen in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

    A major in Psychology consists of 36-54 psychology credits with at least 18 credits at the 3000 level or higher. The Behavior Analysis concentration consists of 36 credits. Students may take up to 54 credits in the major. Students transferring to the college and wishing to major in Psychology must make individual arrangements with the department chairperson regarding satisfaction of major course requirements. To graduate with a Psychology degree, students must have a 2.200 GPA in psychology courses and an overall minimum GPA of 2.000.

    No more than two Breadth of Knowledge courses can be taken with the same prefix. The Core Curriculum courses may be taken in any sequence. Refer to the Core Curriculum policy for further details. You should meet with your faculty adviser to determine how you will meet the Core Curriculum requirements.

    Current UMass Lowell students should be using their Advisement Report in SiS. If you need assistance, please contact your adviser.

    Restriction on off-campus study:

    Be advised that any course taken at another institution must be formally approved prior to enrollment.

    See the catalog policy for details.

    Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Glossary

    • SS - Social Sciences Perspective - 9 credits
    • AH - Arts and Humanities Perspective - 9 credits
    • SCL - Sciences with Lab Perspective - 6 credits
    • STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Perspective - 3 credits
    • CW - College Writing I and II - 6 credits
    • MATH - Math Perspective - 3 credits

    Read more about the Breadth of Knowledge requirements.

    Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO) Glossary

    • AIL - Applied and Integrative Learning
    • CTPS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
    • DCA - Diversity and Cultural Awareness
    • IL - Information Literacy
    • QL - Quantitative Literacy
    • SRE - Social Responsibility and Ethics
    • WOC - Written and Oral Communication

    Read more about the Essential Learning Outcomes.

    For students who entered fall 2025 and beyond.

    Freshman Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1010 /
    HONR.1100
    College Writing I /
    First Year Seminar in Honors: Text in the City (CW)
    3
    FAHS.1090First Year Experience Seminar31
    PSYC.1010Introduction to Psychological Science3
    MATH.xxxxMath Perspective (MATH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 1 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1020College Writing II (CW)3
    PSYC.2600Child and Adolescent Development (SRE)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 2 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSciences with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    Total16

    Sophomore Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    Total16
    PSYC.2690Research Methods (CTPS), (IL)13
    PSYC.2720Abnormal Psychology3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 3 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective2
    3

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2550Community Psychology (DCA)3
    PSYC.2760Theories of Learning3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Perspective (STEM)3
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 4 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective2
    3
    Total15

    Junior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3690Research Statistics (QL)13
    PSYC.3610Developmental Psychopathology3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxWorld Ready Elective2 / Free Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.475xAdvance Seminar (WOC), (AIL)3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Senior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3450 /
    PSYC.3620
    Health Psychology /
    Psychology of Developmental Disabilities
    3
    PSYC.4xxxPsychology Elective (4000 level)3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total12

    Total Minimum Credits = 120

    Minimum [major] Credits: 36

    Maximum [major] that can be counted toward graduation: 54

    1Students must earn a grade of D or higher.

    2World Ready Language Track (WR track) requires successful completion of a two course sequence in a World Language (depending on placement) and three approved courses on the culture/history/literature/film related to that language, but taught in English. (Total of 15 credits.) For detailed information refer to Policies - Language Requirements in the undergraduate catalog. The World Language requirement for Psychology majors can be met with sign language courses taken at Northern Essex Community College (NECC). More information about this policy is available on the Psychology Department website. For information about the sign language courses and program at NECC, please visit NECC website. As with all off-campus courses, students taking sign language courses at NECC must complete a Prior Authorization for Off Campus Courses form.

    3Required for entering Freshmen in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

    A major in Psychology consists of 36-54 psychology credits with at least 18 credits at the 3000 level or higher. The Clinical Psychology concentration consists of 36  required credits. Students may take up to 54 credits in the major. Students transferring to the college and wishing to major in Psychology must make individual arrangements with the department chairperson regarding satisfaction of major course requirements. To graduate with a Psychology degree, students must have a 2.200 GPA in psychology courses and an overall minimum GPA of 2.000.

    No more than two Breadth of Knowledge courses can be taken with the same prefix. The Core Curriculum courses may be taken in any sequence. Refer to the Core Curriculum policy for further details. You should meet with your faculty adviser to determine how you will meet the Core Curriculum requirements.

    Current UMass Lowell students should be using their Advisement Report in SiS. If you need assistance, please contact your adviser.

    Restriction on off-campus study:

    Be advised that any course taken at another institution must be formally approved prior to enrollment.

    See the catalog policy for details.

    Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Glossary

    • SS - Social Sciences Perspective - 9 credits
    • AH - Arts and Humanities Perspective - 9 credits
    • SCL - Sciences with Lab Perspective - 6 credits
    • STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Perspective - 3 credits
    • CW - College Writing I and II - 6 credits
    • MATH - Math Perspective - 3 credits

    Read more about the Breadth of Knowledge requirements.

    Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO) Glossary

    • AIL - Applied and Integrative Learning
    • CTPS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
    • DCA - Diversity and Cultural Awareness
    • IL - Information Literacy
    • QL - Quantitative Literacy
    • SRE - Social Responsibility and Ethics
    • WOC - Written and Oral Communication

    Read more about the Essential Learning Outcomes.

    For students who entered fall 2025 and beyond.

    Freshman Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1010 /
    HONR.1100
    College Writing I /
    First Year Seminar in Honors: Text in the City (CW)
    3
    FAHS.1090First Year Experience Seminar41
    PSYC.1010Introduction to Psychological Science3
    MATH.xxxxMath Perspective (MATH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 1 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1020College Writing II (CW)3
    PSYC.2550Community Psychology (DCA)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 2 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSciences with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    Total16

    Sophomore Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2690Research Methods (IL), (CTPS)13
    PSYC.2600Child and Adolescent Development (SRE)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxSciences with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 3 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective3
    3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2090Social Psychology3
    PSYC.27xxBasic Processes Elective23
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Perspective (STEM)3
    xxxx.xxxx

    Language 4 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective3

    3
    Total15

    Junior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3690Research Statistics (QL)13
    PSYC.3xxxPsychology Elective53
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxWorld Ready Elective3 /
    Free Elective
    3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2320 /
    PSYC.2720
    Psychology of Personality /
    Abnormal Psychology
    3
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.3xxxPsychology Elective53
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Senior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.47xxAdvanced Seminar (AIL), (WOC)3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total12

    Total Minimum Credits = 120

    Minimum [major] Credits: 39

    Maximum [major] that can be counted toward graduation: 54

    1Students must earn a grade of D or higher.

    2Choose from PSYC.2730, PSYC.2760, PSYC.2770 or PSYC.2780

    3World Ready Language Track (WR track) requires successful completion of a two course sequence in a World Language (depending on placement) and three approved courses on the culture/history/literature/film related to that language, but taught in English. (Total of 15 credits.) For detailed information refer to Policies - Language Requirements in the undergraduate catalog. The World Language requirement for Psychology majors can be met with sign language courses taken at Northern Essex Community College (NECC). More information about this policy is available on the Psychology Department website. For information about the sign language courses and program at NECC, please visit NECC website. As with all off-campus courses, students taking sign language courses at NECC must complete a Prior Authorization for Off Campus Courses form.

    4Required for entering Freshmen in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

    5Choose from PSYC.3050, PSYC.3080, PSYC.3360, or PSYC.3450.

    A major in Psychology consists of 36-54 psychology credits with at least 18 credits at the 3000 level or higher. The Community Social Psychology concentration consists of 36 required credits and 3 elective credits, for a total of 39 credits. Students may take up to 54 credits in the major. Students transferring to the college and wishing to major in Psychology must make individual arrangements with the department chairperson regarding satisfaction of major course requirements.  To graduate with a Psychology degree, students must have a 2.200 GPA in psychology courses and an overall minimum GPA of 2.000.

    No more than two Breadth of Knowledge courses can be taken with the same prefix. The Core Curriculum courses may be taken in any sequence. Refer to the Core Curriculum policy for further details. You should meet with your faculty adviser to determine how you will meet the Core Curriculum requirements.

    Current UMass Lowell students should be using their Advisement Report in SiS. If you need assistance, please contact your adviser.

    Restriction on off-campus study:

    Be advised that any course taken at another institution must be formally approved prior to enrollment.

    See the catalog policy for details.

    Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Glossary

    • SS - Social Sciences Perspective - 9 credits
    • AH - Arts and Humanities Perspective - 9 credits
    • SCL - Sciences with Lab Perspective - 6 credits
    • STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Perspective - 3 credits
    • CW - College Writing I and II - 6 credits
    • MATH - Math Perspective - 3 credits

    Read more about the Breadth of Knowledge requirements.

    Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO) Glossary

    • AIL - Applied and Integrative Learning
    • CTPS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
    • DCA - Diversity and Cultural Awareness
    • IL - Information Literacy
    • QL - Quantitative Literacy
    • SRE - Social Responsibility and Ethics
    • WOC - Written and Oral Communication

    Read more about the Essential Learning Outcomes.

    For students who entered fall 2025 and beyond.

    Freshman Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1010 /
    HONR.1100
    College Writing I /
    First Year Seminar in Honors: Text in the City (CW)
    3
    FAHS.1090First Year Experience Seminar41
    PSYC.1010Introduction to Psychological Science3
    MATH.xxxxMath Perspective (MATH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 1 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1020College Writing II (CW)3
    PSYC.2600Child and Adolescent Development (SRE)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 2 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSciences with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    Total16

    Sophomore Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2690Research Methods (IL), (CTPS)13
    PSYC.2320 /
    PSYC.2720
    Psychology of Personality /
    Abnormal Psychology5
    3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxSciences with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 3 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective3
    3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    Total15
    PSYC.2090 /
    PSYC.2550
    Social Psychology /
    Community Psychology (DCA)
    3
    PSYC.27xxBasic Processes Elective23
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Perspective (STEM)3
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 4 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective3
    3

    Junior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3690Research Statistics (QL)13
    PSYC.3600 /
    PSYC.3610
    Adult Development and Aging /
    Developmental Psychopathology5
    3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxWorld Ready Elective3 /
    Free Elective
    3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3630Introduction to Disability Studies3
    PSYC.3620Psychology of Developmental Disabilities3
    PSYC.3xxxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Senior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.47xxAdvanced Seminar (with relevance to field of disability studies) (AIL), (WOC)3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total12

    Total Minimum Credits = 120

    Minimum [major] Credits: 39

    Maximum [major] that can be counted toward graduation: 54

    1Students must earn a grade of D or higher.

    2Choose from PSYC.2730, PSYC.2760, PSYC.2770 or PSYC.2780.

    3World Ready Language Track (WR track) requires successful completion of a two course sequence in a World Language (depending on placement) and three approved courses on the culture/history/literature/film related to that language, but taught in English. (Total of 15 credits.) For detailed information refer to Policies - Language Requirements in the undergraduate catalog. The World Language requirement for Psychology majors can be met with sign language courses taken at Northern Essex Community College (NECC). More information about this policy is available on the Psychology Department website. For information about the sign language courses and program at NECC, please visit NECC website. As with all off-campus courses, students taking sign language courses at NECC must complete a Prior Authorization for Off Campus Courses form.

    4Required for entering Freshmen in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

    5Students who choose to focus on adults select PSYC.2720 and PSYC.3600; students who choose to focus on children and adolescents select PSYC.2320 or PSYC.2720 and select PSYC.3610.

    A major in Psychology consists of 36-54 psychology credits with at least 18 credits at the 3000 level or higher. The Developmental Disabilities concentration consists of 39 credits. Students may take up to 54 credits in the major. Students transferring to the college and wishing to major in Psychology must make individual arrangements with the department chairperson regarding satisfaction of major course requirements. To graduate with a Psychology degree, students must have a 2.200 GPA in psychology courses and an overall minimum GPA of 2.000.

    No more than two Breadth of Knowledge courses can be taken with the same prefix. The Core Curriculum courses may be taken in any sequence. Refer to the Core Curriculum policy for further details. You should meet with your faculty adviser to determine how you will meet the Core Curriculum requirements.

    Current UMass Lowell students should be using their Advisement Report in SiS. If you need assistance, please contact your adviser.

    Restriction on off-campus study:

    Be advised that any course taken at another institution must be formally approved prior to enrollment.

    See the catalog policy for details.

    Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Glossary

    • SS - Social Sciences Perspective - 9 credits
    • AH - Arts and Humanities Perspective - 9 credits
    • SCL - Sciences with Lab Perspective - 6 credits
    • STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Perspective - 3 credits
    • CW - College Writing I and II - 6 credits
    • MATH - Math Perspective - 3 credits

    Read more about the Breadth of Knowledge requirements.

    Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO) Glossary

    • AIL - Applied and Integrative Learning
    • CTPS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
    • DCA - Diversity and Cultural Awareness
    • IL - Information Literacy
    • QL - Quantitative Literacy
    • SRE - Social Responsibility and Ethics
    • WOC - Written and Oral Communication

    Read more about the Essential Learning Outcomes.

    For students who entered fall 2025 and beyond.

    Freshman Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1010 /
    HONR.1100
    College Writing I /
    First Year Seminar in Honors: Text in the City (CW)
    3
    FAHS.1090First Year Experience Seminar31
    PSYC.1010Introduction to Psychological Science3
    MATH.xxxxMath Perspective (MATH)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 1 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    Total16

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    ENGL.1020College Writing II (CW)3
    PSYC.2600Child and Adolescent Development (SRE)3
    WLxx.xxxxLanguage 2 and Culture3
    xxxx.xxxxScience with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    Total16

    Sophomore Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    Total16
    PSYC.2690Research Methods (CTPS), (IL)13
    PSYC.2720Abnormal Psychology3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience with Lab Perspective (SCL)4
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 3 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective2
    3

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.2090 /
    PSYC.2550
    Social Psychology /
    Community Psychology (DCA)
    3
    PSYC.2730Biological Psychology3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxScience, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Perspective (STEM)3
    xxxx.xxxxLanguage 4 and Culture /
    World Ready Elective2
    3
    Total15

    Junior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3690Research Statistics (QL)13
    PSYC.3120Learning and Behavior3
    xxxx.xxxxArts and Humanities Perspective (AH)3
    xxxx.xxxxSocial Sciences Perspective (SS)3
    xxxx.xxxxWorld Ready Elective2 /
    Free Elective
    3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.3450Health Psychology3
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    PSYC.3/4xxxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Senior Year

    Fall Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    PSYC.47xxAdvanced Seminar (AIL), (WOC)43
    PSYC.4xxxPsychology Elective3
    xxxx.3/4xxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total15

    Spring Semester

    Course NumberCourse NameCredits
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    xxxx.xxxxFree Elective3
    Total12

    Total Minimum Credits = 120

    Minimum [major] Credits: 39

    Maximum [major] that can be counted toward graduation: 54

    1Students must earn a grade of D or higher.

    2World Ready Language Track (WR track) requires successful completion of a two course sequence in a World Language (depending on placement) and three approved courses on the culture/history/literature/film related to that language, but taught in English. (Total of 15 credits.) For detailed information refer to Policies - Language Requirements in the undergraduate catalog. The World Language requirement for Psychology majors can be met with sign language courses taken at Northern Essex Community College (NECC). More information about this policy is available on the Psychology Department website. For information about the sign language courses and program at NECC, please visit NECC website. As with all off-campus courses, students taking sign language courses at NECC must complete a Prior Authorization for Off Campus Courses form.

    3Required for entering Freshmen in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

    4Choose from PSYC.4710, PSYC.4730, PSYC.4740, PSYC.4750, PSYC.4770, PSYC.4780, or PSYC.4790, but must be approved as having a health focus.

    A major in Psychology consists of 36-54 psychology credits with at least 18 credits at the 3000 level or higher. The Health Psychology concentration consists of 39 credits. Students may take up to 54 credits in the major. Students transferring to the college and wishing to major in Psychology must make individual arrangements with the department chairperson regarding satisfaction of major course requirements. To graduate with a Psychology degree, students must have a 2.200 GPA in psychology courses and an overall minimum GPA of 2.000.

    No more than two Breadth of Knowledge courses can be taken with the same prefix. The Core Curriculum courses may be taken in any sequence. Refer to the Core Curriculum policy for further details. You should meet with your faculty adviser to determine how you will meet the Core Curriculum requirements.

    Current UMass Lowell students should be using their Advisement Report in SiS. If you need assistance, please contact your adviser.

    Restriction on off-campus study:

    Be advised that any course taken at another institution must be formally approved prior to enrollment.

    See the catalog policy for details.

    Breadth of Knowledge (BOK) Glossary

    • SS - Social Sciences Perspective - 9 credits
    • AH - Arts and Humanities Perspective - 9 credits
    • SCL - Sciences with Lab Perspective - 6 credits
    • STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Perspective - 3 credits
    • CW - College Writing I and II - 6 credits
    • MATH - Math Perspective - 3 credits

    Read more about the Breadth of Knowledge requirements.

    Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO) Glossary

    • AIL - Applied and Integrative Learning
    • CTPS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
    • DCA - Diversity and Cultural Awareness
    • IL - Information Literacy
    • QL - Quantitative Literacy
    • SRE - Social Responsibility and Ethics
    • WOC - Written and Oral Communication

    Read more about the Essential Learning Outcomes.

    Why study psychology at UMass Lowell?

    Research Opportunities

    Participate in cutting-edge research with faculty and gain opportunities to:

    • Present research at colloquia and national and international conferences
    • Publish papers with faculty in scholarly journals
    • Participate in the Emerging Scholars Program as a rising junior and senior
    Two students in a classroom

    Expert Faculty

    Work with and learn from our faculty who are leaders in their fields. Many are nationally recognized authors, editors of journals, investigators on groundbreaking research, presidents of national organizations and collaborators in the Lowell community.

    Two students in graduation cap and gown

    Graduate Programs

    Advance your knowledge and career options through our graduate programs:

    A child smiles while learning dance moves at Love of the Game, a student-run community outreach program that held a floor hockey clinic for people with developmental disabilities.

    Student Organizations

    Put your learning into practice by joining student-run clubs and organizations, including:

    • Psychology Club 
    • Love of the Game
    • International Honor Society in Psychology (Psi Chi)
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    Career Connected Experience: The UMass Lowell Guarantee

    Every first-time, first-year UMass Lowell student will have the opportunity to pursue at least one Career Connected Experience (internships, co-ops, clinical placements, service learning, study abroad and more) during their undergraduate career — earning pay, credits or both before they graduate.

    Meet Our Students and Alumni

    UMass Lowell Image
    Deborah Friedl '83
    Criminal Justice, Psychology

    Deborah Friedl ’83 broke barriers for women at the Lowell Police Department. Now president of the International Association of Women Police, she’s advocating for women to play a role in police reform.

    Women bring a lot of value to building trust with communities.
    UMass student Sandi DeRuntz stands in front of Difference Maker sign.
    Sandi DeRuntz '25
    Bachelor of Liberal Arts: Art and Psychology

    Sandi DeRuntz invented ZipperBuddy, an aid for people with disabilities, through an interdisciplinary class and DifferenceMaker.

    I’ve found my purpose: I want to create accessible devices.
    Nicole Cruz Merced and friends at the undergraduate commencement exercise in 2018.
    Nicole Cruz Merced '18, '20
    Psychology & Community Social Psychology

    When Nicole Cruz Merced overcame her shyness and reached out to a professor, it changed her life.

    I found myself as a student in undergrad; I found myself as a professional in grad school.

    Visit UMass Lowell

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    U.S. News & World Report badge for best online bachelor's in psychology program, UMass Lowell.
    Named a Best Online bachelor's in psychology by U.S. News & World Report.