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
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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.

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Graduate Programs

Advance your knowledge and career options through our graduate programs:

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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

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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.
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Douglas Correa Ospina '23
Economics and Psychology

Douglas Correa Ospina plans to combine his studies in psychology and economics to help immigrants and others from marginalized groups become more financially secure.

I would not be who I am today if we hadn’t come to Lowell.
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Sara Khun-Leng '99
Criminal Justice

Sara Khun-Leng ’99 helps immigrants and refugees, veterans and others needing assistance as director of constituent services in the district office of U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan.

I felt like I had to do this, to speak for people who are not always able to help themselves.

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Named a Best Online bachelor's in psychology by U.S. News & World Report.