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Psychology OverviewThe science of psychology is a quest to understand the human mind and behavior. Bard psychology faculty and students seek to answer questions about the workings of the brain; the interactions of brain, mind, and behavior; the person in social context; the development of the person throughout childhood and adulthood; the nature of thinking and language; and the problems and pathologies that people develop, along with methods of helping them. The Psychology Program is rooted in the idea that mind and behavior are best understood from multiple, intersecting levels of analysis, ranging from biological mechanisms and individual psychological processes to social, cultural, and other environmental influences. The Psychology Program offers all students the opportunity to learn how the unique perspectives and empirical methods of psychology can illuminate human thought and behavior. The language and analytical approaches of psychology have become a common basis for many professional endeavors, making students who concentrate in psychology well equipped for graduate study in this field, as well as in a variety of related career pursuits. Areas of StudyThe program of study provides grounding in the areas of clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, counseling psychology, developmental psychology, neuroscience, and social psychology. It provides a thorough foundation in empirical methodology and analysis, and offers opportunities to participate in meaningful research and laboratory experiences. RequirementsPrior to Moderation, students are required to take Introduction to Psychology, Psychology 103, preferably in the first year (although a score of 5 on the AP psychology exam fulfills the requirement), and a sophomore sequence of Introduction to Statistics (Psychology 203) in the fall and Research Methods in Psychology (Psychology 204) in the spring. Additionally, at least one 200-level course should be taken prior to Moderation. In the Upper College, moderated students are required to take at least one additional 200-level course and two 300-level courses (seminars and/or laboratory courses). Opportunities for Additional Learning:Students are strongly encouraged to pursue opportunities for research or community-based practicum experiences that complement their regular course work and that connect academic learning with practical applications. The program offers independent laboratory courses in clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience under the direction of program faculty that provide ideal opportunities for learning how to conduct research in each psychology discipline. In addition, opportunities exist in local communities for students to pursue interests in developmental, clinical, and counseling psychology. Students are also encouraged to gain experience through summer research opportunities in the Bard Summer Research Institute. Students have also been successful at obtaining summer research positions at major universities. Recent Senior Projects in Psychology:
CoursesThe course descriptions that follow are listed numerically, from introductory 100-level courses to 300-level Upper College courses and seminars.
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