Psychology

Psychology at California State University offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for diverse careers in mental health, research, education, business, and other fields that require an understanding of human cognition and behavior. Students have the opportunity to explore various areas of psychology, including developmental, social, cognitive, biological, and clinical psychology, through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and field experiences. The program encourages critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and ethical practice, equipping graduates with the ability to analyze complex issues and apply psychological principles in real-world settings. Additionally, students can participate in research projects, internships, and community engagement activities that enhance their learning and professional growth. Faculty members are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering an inclusive academic environment that supports diverse perspectives. The program prepares students for further education or immediate entry into the workforce by emphasizing communication skills, data analysis, and evidence-based approaches. Whether pursuing careers in counseling, healthcare, social services, or research, graduates of the Psychology program at California State University are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to society.

A. General Education - 48 units (See CSUCI catalog for details of the General Education requirements)

B. Lower Division Required Courses (9 units):

Students will need to obtain a grade of C or better to apply these courses to the psychology major. Students may substitute equivalent courses taken at other universities in each area by articulation agreement or by permission of the Psychology program. Nine units from these required lower division courses may be counted toward GE requirements.

PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology, 3 units

PSY 202 Biostatistics (MATH), 3 units

PSY 213 Developmental Psychology, 3 units

C. Upper Division Required Core Courses (28 units)

Psychology majors normally take these courses at CI. Students may substitute equivalent courses taken at other universities in each area by articulation agreement or by permission of the Psychology program. All courses may be passed with a grade of C or better to apply toward the Psychology major.

PSY 300 Psychological Research and Statistical Methods I, 4 units

PSY 301 Psychological Research and Statistical Methods II, 4 units

PSY 310 History and Systems of Psychology, 3 units

PSY 312 Social Psychology, 3 units

PSY 313 Clinical and Abnormal Psychology, 3 units

PSY 314 Behavioral Neuroscience, 4 units

PSY 317 Theories of Personality, 3 units

PSY 318 Learning, Cognition and Perception, 4 units

D. Upper Division Psychology Electives (12-13 units)

Psychology majors must take 12-13 units of Upper Division Psychology Electives. Up to 6 units from interdisciplinary Psychology courses numbered 330-349 or 430-449 may be double-counted toward the upper division GE requirement. Not all courses will be taught in all years. Students must obtain a grade of C or better (or CR) in each of these courses to apply them to the psychology major. The current list of Upper Division Elective courses in Psychology is as follows:

PSY 303 Statistical Applications in the Social Sciences (POLS/SOC), 4 units

PSY 305 Field Research Methods, 3 units

PSY 315 Child Psychopathology, 3 units

PSY 327 Parenting, 3 units

PSY 330 Behavioral Finance: The Psychology of Decision-making (BUS), 3 units

PSY 333 Measurement and Testing of Groups and Individuals, 3 units

PSY 337 Psychological Ethics and Moral Philosophy, 3 units

PSY 338 Psychology of Art and Artists (ART), 3 units

PSY 339 Psychology and Literature (ENGL), 3 units

PSY 340 History and Psychology of Nazi Germany (HIST), 3 units

PSY 342 Complementary and Alternative Health (NURS), 3 units

PSY 344 Psychology and Traditional Asian Thought, 3 units

PSY 345 Individuals with Disabilities in Society (SPED), 3 units

PSY 346 Human Motivation, 3 units

PSY 348 Healthy Aging (NRS/SOC), 3 units

PSY 357 Psychology of Families, 3 units

PSY 370 Fundamentals in Counseling Theory, 3 units

PSY 375 Psychology of Health Counseling, 3 units

PSY 383 Chicana/o/Latina/o Identity and Empowerment (CHS), 3 units

PSY 400 Case Studies in Psychopathology and Clinical Psychology, 3 units

PSY 410 Psychological Testing, 3 units

PSY 420 African American Families, 3 units

PSY 424 Organizational Behavior (MGT), 3 units

PSY 429 Intergroup Relations, 3 units

PSY 432 Seminar in Leadership, 3 units

PSY 436 Psychology and History of East Asian Warrior Cultures (HIST), 3 units

PSY 445 Adolescent Development, 3 units

PSY 449 Human-Computer Interaction (COMP), 3 units

PSY 457 Criminal Behavior, 3 units

PSY 460 Addiction Studies, 3 units

PSY 461 Advanced Topics in Child and Adolescent Development, 3 units

PSY 470 Seminar in Freud and Object Relations Theory, 3 units

PSY 471 Seminar in Jungian and Archetypal Psychology, 3 units

PSY 473 Bizarre Behavior and Culture Bound Syndromes, 3 units

PSY 482 Intermediate Statistics, 3 units

PSY 490 Topics in Psychology, 1-3 units

PSY 492 Internship or Service Learning, 1-3 units

PSY 494 Independent Research in Psychology, 1-3 units

PSY 497 Directed Study in Psychology, 1-3 units

PSY 499 Senior Capstone Course, 1-3 units

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The California State University offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in the Psychology undergraduate program. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Psychology can apply for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Federal aid programs include Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and federal student loans such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine their eligibility for these aid programs. State financial assistance may include Cal Grants, which provide grants to eligible California residents based on financial need and academic achievement. Additionally, the university offers scholarships specifically for psychology students, which may be awarded based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and community involvement.

Work-study opportunities are also available, allowing students to earn funds through part-time employment on campus or within community service organizations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Financial aid packages often combine multiple sources of funding to meet the cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, and personal expenses. Moreover, students are encouraged to explore external scholarships offered by private organizations, foundations, and professional psychology associations. Many students also consider student loans as a supplement to other aid sources, ensuring they can afford the costs associated with their education without incurring excessive debt.

California State University maintains a commitment to affordability and accessibility, regularly reviewing and updating its financial aid offerings to accommodate the needs of diverse student populations. For international students or those not eligible for federal aid, institutional scholarships and private funding options are recommended. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive counseling to help students navigate their options and develop a sustainable financial plan for their psychology studies. In addition to traditional aid programs, students are encouraged to participate in research assistantships and internships that may offer stipends or other forms of support. Overall, the university’s financing studies aim to reduce financial barriers and promote academic success for all psychology students.

The California State University offers a comprehensive Psychology undergraduate program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the field of mental health, research, education, and more. The program provides a broad foundation in psychological principles, including developmental, social, cognitive, and behavioral psychology. Students gain a deep understanding of human behavior and mental processes through coursework that emphasizes scientific inquiry and evidence-based practices. The curriculum integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, often including laboratory work, research projects, and internships to enhance hands-on experience.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to explore specialized areas such as abnormal psychology, personality theories, neuropsychology, and health psychology. The program encourages critical thinking, data analysis, and effective communication, equipping graduates with the competencies necessary for graduate study or employment in fields like counseling, therapy, social services, marketing, human resources, and education.

The university also emphasizes research engagement, allowing students to participate in faculty-led projects and gain valuable insights into psychological research methodologies. Many programs include a capstone project or thesis, giving students the chance to contribute original research to the field. The faculty comprises experienced professionals committed to mentoring and supporting students' academic and professional development.

Academic advising, career services, and student organizations related to psychology further support students’ growth and preparation for post-graduate opportunities. The program aims to foster an inclusive and diverse learning environment, encouraging respect for different perspectives and promoting equity in education and mental health awareness.

In addition, the university offers resources for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees, including preparation for graduate exams and application assistance for master’s and doctoral programs. Upon completion, graduates are well-positioned to pursue meaningful careers in psychology or to continue their education through graduate studies. Overall, the California State University’s Psychology program combines rigorous coursework, research opportunities, and professional development, making it a strong foundation for students aspiring to make an impact in the field of mental health and human behavior.