Psychology

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The curriculum emphasizes a rigorous foundation in both psychological theories and the biological mechanisms underlying behavior, encouraging students to explore diverse areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, clinical psychology, and neuroscience. Students will engage in laboratory research, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for conducting empirical studies and interpreting data. The program promotes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from biology, neuroscience, and social sciences to offer a well-rounded perspective on human behavior. Coursework includes experimental methods, statistics, and ethical considerations in psychological research, preparing students for careers in research, mental health, healthcare, education, and related fields. Dartmouth’s psychology degree also emphasizes experiential learning, providing opportunities for students to participate in ongoing faculty research projects, internships, and community outreach programs. The program aims to foster not only scholarly excellence but also ethical awareness and effective communication skills. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue advanced degrees in psychology, neuroscience, medicine, or related disciplines, or to enter the workforce directly in settings such as mental health clinics, research institutions, government agencies, and corporate environments. The department’s dedicated faculty members are committed to mentorship and guiding students through their academic and professional pursuits, ensuring a supportive environment for intellectual growth and discovery. Whether students are interested in exploring fundamental questions about brain function, behavior, and mental health, or preparing for a specialized career, the Dartmouth psychology program offers a stimulating and challenging educational experience tailored to a diverse and vibrant community of learners.

The Psychology program at Dartmouth College offers an in-depth exploration of human behavior and mental processes, designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific foundations of psychology. The curriculum combines core courses in areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, and neuroscience with opportunities for research and practical application. Students engage in methodological training that includes experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation, equipping them with essential skills for careers in research, mental health, education, or related fields. The program emphasizes critical thinking and scientific inquiry, encouraging students to analyze psychological theories and apply them to real-world issues. Undergraduate students can participate in original research projects, working closely with faculty members renowned for their contributions to psychology. The program also offers a variety of electives that allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests, including clinical psychology, abnormal psychology, and health psychology. Dartmouth’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning allows students to incorporate perspectives from fields such as anthropology, biology, and philosophy, broadening their understanding of psychological phenomena. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, facilitating hands-on learning experiences. The department emphasizes preparing students for graduate study and diverse careers by fostering analytical skills, ethical understanding, and a nuanced appreciation of psychological diversity. Through seminars, workshops, and community outreach, students gain practical experience in communicating psychological concepts and contribute to advancing the understanding of human behavior. Whether students aim to continue in academia, pursue careers in mental health services, or explore related professional fields, the Dartmouth Psychology program provides a rigorous and enriching educational foundation.

The Psychology program at Dartmouth College requires students to complete a comprehensive set of coursework and research activities designed to provide a thorough understanding of the core principles and diverse subfields of psychology. Students typically begin their studies with foundational courses in introductory psychology, which cover topics such as cognitive processes, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Following the introductory level, students are encouraged to enroll in more specialized courses that delve into areas such as clinical psychology, behavioral neuroscience, cognition, perception, and psychopathology.

To fulfill major requirements, students must complete a specified number of credits in psychology courses, including both lecture-based classes and seminars that promote active engagement and discussion. In addition to coursework, the program emphasizes experiential learning through research projects, which students often undertake under the supervision of faculty members. This research component aims to develop students’ skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Typically, students are expected to participate in research labs, complete independent research projects, and, in some cases, present their findings at departmental or national conferences.

Another core requirement involves a senior capstone experience, which may be fulfilled through a comprehensive research paper, a thesis project, or an integrative seminar that synthesizes learning across different psychology domains. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to gain practical experience through internships, assisting in clinical settings, or engaging in community service related to mental health and psychological well-being.

The program also offers a variety of elective courses that allow students to explore interdisciplinary connections with other fields such as economics, neuroscience, and philosophy. To ensure well-rounded education, students are advised to develop competencies in critical thinking, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. The Dartmouth College Psychology Department maintains high standards for academic performance, requiring students to attain a minimum GPA in major courses to graduate. Overall, the program aims to prepare students for graduate study, careers in mental health and human services, or related fields by providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills grounded in scientific research.

The Dartmouth College Psychology program offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the Psychology major are encouraged to explore multiple sources of funding to help offset tuition costs, living expenses, and other educational fees. Dartmouth provides need-based financial aid programs that are designed to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds have access to its prestigious psychology courses and research opportunities. Applicants submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile to determine eligibility for financial assistance.

In addition to federal and state financial aid options, Dartmouth offers internal scholarships, grants, and fellowships specific to students majoring or minoring in Psychology. The college’s need-based aid packages typically include grants that do not require repayment, making them a preferred form of support. Students can also participate in work-study programs, which provide part-time employment opportunities on or off-campus, allowing them to earn funds while gaining professional experience relevant to their academic pursuits.

Graduate students in Psychology may have access to teaching assistantships and research assistantships, which often include stipends and tuition remission. These assistantships enable students to work closely with faculty on ongoing research projects, contributing to their professional development while alleviating financial burdens. Dartmouth also encourages students to seek external scholarships, private grants, and fellowships offered by research organizations, professional societies, and government agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Furthermore, the college has dedicated financial aid counselors available to advise students on available funding opportunities, application procedures, and strategies for financing their studies in Psychology. Dartmouth’s commitment to affordable education ensures comprehensive support mechanisms, fostering an inclusive academic environment where students can focus on their scholarly interests without excessive financial stress. Overall, the combination of institutional aid, external funding opportunities, work-study programs, and personal finances form a robust framework to finance studies in Psychology at Dartmouth College.

The Dartmouth College Psychology Department offers a comprehensive program designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The curriculum encompasses various fields within psychology, including cognitive, developmental, clinical, social, and biological perspectives. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, experimental techniques, and a strong foundation in research methodology, which prepares them for diverse careers in science, healthcare, education, and related fields.

Undergraduate students pursuing a major in Psychology are required to complete a series of core courses that cover fundamental topics such as Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods, and Statistics. Advanced coursework allows students to specialize in areas like Neuropsychology, Child Development, or Social Psychology. The program emphasizes experiential learning, often through laboratory research projects, independent studies, and internships, giving students practical insights into psychological science.

Dartmouth also offers opportunities for students to engage in faculty-led research projects, fostering an environment of inquiry and scholarly activity. The department supports a range of academic events, seminars, and workshops that expose students to current issues and emerging trends in psychology. Students are encouraged to present their research at regional and national conferences, promoting professional development.

The department's faculty members are experts in various subfields of psychology, contributing to a rich academic environment characterized by mentorship and collaborative research. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue advanced degrees in psychology, medicine, education, and other health-related fields, or to enter the workforce directly in settings such as clinical practice, research institutions, or human resources.

Dartmouth's Psychology Program also emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore connections between psychology and other disciplines like neuroscience, sociology, and biology. This integrative approach enhances students’ understanding of complex human behavior and prepares them for the multifaceted nature of psychological science.

In addition to academic coursework, students are involved in community engagement activities, promoting the application of psychological principles to real-world problems. The program fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Overall, Dartmouth’s Psychology Program aims to cultivate thoughtful, scientifically-minded individuals equipped with the skills necessary for professional success and lifelong learning in the psychological sciences.