Psychology

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive introduction to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. This program is designed to provide a solid foundation in the core principles of psychology, including cognition, development, social behavior, and abnormal psychology, while also fostering critical thinking, research skills, and an understanding of diverse perspectives within the field. Students will engage in hands-on research projects, data analysis, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for a wide range of careers or advanced graduate studies. The curriculum includes courses in biological psychology, cognitive psychology, personality, clinical psychology, and social psychology, all taught by distinguished faculty members who are active researchers in their areas of expertise. In addition to rigorous coursework, students benefit from opportunities for internships, co-op placements, and community engagement initiatives, which help bridge academic concepts with real-world applications. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations, multicultural awareness, and the importance of scientific inquiry in understanding human and animal behavior. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in mental health services, research, education, healthcare, human resources, and other fields that require a solid understanding of psychological principles. The University of Calgary's vibrant academic community, state-of-the-art facilities, and supportive environment foster an enriching educational experience aimed at developing both professional competencies and a deeper understanding of the complexities of the human mind. With a flexible structure, students can tailor their studies through various electives and specializations to align with their personal interests and career goals. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Calgary prepares students to make meaningful contributions to society through the application of psychological knowledge and skills.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at the University of Calgary provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. This program explores a wide range of topics, including the biological bases of behavior, cognitive processes, developmental changes across the lifespan, social influences, and the principles of psychological research methodology. Designed for students interested in understanding human behavior, the curriculum combines core theoretical courses with practical research experiences, equipping graduates with the skills necessary for diverse careers in psychology, research, health services, education, and beyond.

Throughout the program, students engage in rigorous coursework covering areas such as abnormal psychology, sensation and perception, learning and memory, personality psychology, and social psychology. They also develop critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework in research methods and statistical analysis, which are essential for conducting and evaluating scientific studies. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and ethical considerations in psychological research and professional work, preparing students to apply their knowledge responsibly in various settings.

Students have opportunities for hands-on experience through research assistantship programs, internships, and community engagement projects. These experiences help students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, fostering practical skills and professional development. Additionally, the program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to explore connections between psychology and fields such as neuroscience, health sciences, and education.

The degree offers specializations in various areas of psychology, enabling students to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals. Whether pursuing further graduate studies or immediate employment, students graduate from the University of Calgary's Psychology program with a solid foundation in scientific inquiry, human behavior, and the application of psychological principles. The program is committed to fostering diversity, ethical awareness, and a global perspective, preparing students to contribute positively to society and to understand the complex factors that influence human behavior.

Admission Requirements: Prospective students must meet the general admission standards of the University of Calgary, including completion of a recognized secondary school diploma with competitive grades. Specific prerequisites for the Psychology program include courses in English and Mathematics, with some flexibility depending on the applicant's academic background. International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, meeting the minimum score requirements set by the university.

Program-Specific Requirements: Applicants are encouraged to have completed high school courses in Psychology, Biology, and Social Sciences; however, these are not mandatory for admission but are recommended to prepare students for undergraduate coursework. Prior research or volunteer experience related to psychology is advantageous but not compulsory.

Application Components: A complete application includes official high school transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), a personal statement outlining interest in psychology, and, for international students, proof of English proficiency. Some competitive programs may also request letters of recommendation and a résumé/CV highlighting relevant experiences.

Curriculum Requirements: The Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology typically requires the completion of approximately 120 to 130 credit hours over four years. The curriculum includes core courses such as Introduction to Psychology, Research Methods, Statistics for Psychology, and Biological Bases of Behavior. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, internships, or practica to gain practical experience. Elective courses allow specialization in areas like Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Clinical Psychology, or Social Psychology.

Honours and Major Options: To graduate with honours or as a major, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA (usually around 3.0), complete specific honours seminars or thesis projects, and meet the coursework requirements. The honours program involves independent research under faculty supervision, culminating in a thesis or research paper.

Additional Program Requirements: Students are expected to attend seminars, workshops, or training sessions offered by the department. Participation in undergraduate research is strongly recommended to enhance understanding and employability after graduation. Certain courses may require prerequisites, and students should consult academic advisors to plan their course schedules accordingly.

Accreditation and Certification: The Psychology program at the University of Calgary is accredited and follows the guidelines established by the Canadian Psychological Association for undergraduate education, preparing students for graduate studies or careers in psychology, health sciences, education, or related fields.

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.

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The University of Calgary offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in its Psychology undergraduate programs. These options are designed to support students financially throughout their studies and include scholarships, bursaries, grants, and loans. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement, and are available to both incoming and current students. Bursaries are need-based and aim to assist students facing financial hardships, ensuring that qualified individuals can pursue their education without undue financial stress. The university also provides various grants, some of which are targeted towards specific demographics or fields of study, including psychology.

In addition to institutional support, students are encouraged to explore external sources of funding such as government-sponsored student loans, which typically require application through provincial or federal channels. The Government of Canada offers the Canada Student Loan Program, which provides low-interest loans to eligible students based on financial need. The Government of Alberta also administers student loan programs that can be accessed by students residing in the province. Furthermore, some students may qualify for work-study opportunities, allowing them to gain practical experience while earning income to offset educational expenses.

The university's Financial Aid and Awards office provides personalized assistance to students for navigating these options, including applications, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. Students are advised to apply early and regularly check for updates on available funding opportunities. Additionally, the university offers payment plans to help manage tuition fees over the course of the academic year.

The psychology program also collaborates with various research centres and faculty members who sometimes have grants or funding aimed at supporting student research assistantships or projects. These positions not only provide financial support but also enhance students’ academic and professional experience. Overall, the University of Calgary’s approach to financing studies ensures that students in the psychology program have access to diverse resources and support systems to help them successfully complete their degrees.

The University of Calgary offers a comprehensive undergraduate program in Psychology designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees in Psychology are structured to cater to diverse academic interests and career goals. Students enrolled in these programs are exposed to core areas such as biological psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, learning and motivation, and research methods. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical research experience, enabling students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of experimental design and data analysis.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through research assistantships, internships, and fieldwork opportunities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. The university’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities support student projects and faculty research initiatives. Faculty members are recognized experts in their fields, contributing to ongoing research in areas like neuropsychology, developmental psychology, health psychology, and forensic psychology. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, fostering a vibrant academic community and professional development.

Graduate pathways from the undergraduate program include advanced studies in psychology and related disciplines, as well as careers in healthcare, counseling, education, human resources, and research. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing students for fields that benefit from psychological expertise. Overall, the Psychology program at the University of Calgary aims to cultivate knowledgeable, ethical, and engaged practitioners and scholars committed to understanding and improving human behavior.