Peter Vanable, Ph.D., Chair
430 Huntington Hall
315-443-2354

Faculty:

Kevin Antshel, Benita A. Blachman, D. Bruce Carter, Catherine A. Cornwell, Amy H. Criss, Jeanne Denti, Joseph Ditre, Tanya L. Eckert, Craig K. Ewart, Les Gellis, Richard M. Gramzow, Randall S. Jorgenson, Michael Kalish, Lawrence J. Lewandowski, Stephen Maisto, Brian K. Martens, Christopher B. Miller, Leonard Newman, Tibor Palfai, Aesoon Park, Natalie Russo, Lael Schooler, Bradley Seymour, Laura VanderDrift, Peter A. Vanable and Corey White

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior. Professional psychologists may be researchers investigating behavior and/or practitioners, applying their knowledge and skills to individual and social problems.

The Psychology Department offers several options for students. These include a Bachelor of Arts major, a Bachelor of Science major, and a minor. Students planning to pursue a career in which a background in psychology is useful, such as business, communications, or social services, will find the B.A. degree to be an appropriate track. These students are encouraged to pursue experiences through part-time work or internships in their area of interest. Students interested in pursuing professional careers in psychology, social work, or other professional fields such as law will need to attend graduate school and obtain an advanced degree. These students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor for advice on whether the B.A. or B.S. degree is most appropriate to meet their long-term goals. The B.S. degree is recommended for students planning professional careers in such fields as medicine, dentistry, and physical therapy. All students should consult regularly with their faculty advisor in planning a program of study that is consistent with their future academic and career goals. All students are encouraged to utilize the career resources available in the Department of Psychology, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the University to learn about opportunities and prepare strategies to meet their goals.

Petitions

Students interested in taking a psychology class at another institution and transferring it to Syracuse University to count toward either the major or minor must complete a petition form (downloadable from the department web site) and bring it and a syllabus for the course to the Advising Office (415 Huntington) for approval prior to enrolling in the course. Petitions may take up to two weeks for review. Winter intersession classes are generally not accepted as transfer credit. Students should plan their program of study in consultation with their academic advisor in order to insure timely completion of degree requirements No more than three hours of experience credit (PSY 270  or PSY 470 ) may be applied toward the minimum number of hours required for the major.

Grades: A passing grade in all required courses (including courses petitioned for transfer credit) is necessary; the option of taking these courses pass/fail, or auditing is not permitted.