johns hopkins psychology phd programs

Psychological and Brain Sciences

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences.

Department website: http://pbs.jhu.edu/

The psychological and brain sciences are concerned with understanding the biological and psychological processes underlying animal and human behavior at all stages of development.

The undergraduate program leading to the baccalaureate degree is intended to provide students with a sound background in psychological and brain sciences and, at the same time, to prepare them for advanced study.

The program for doctoral students in psychological and brain sciences has a strong empirical focus and emphasizes research methodology. The broad aim of the graduate program is to train students to become scientists rather than practitioners.

Members of the department have access to MARCC high-performance computing systems for computational studies, simulations and data analysis.

The cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience laboratories contain a wide range of computer equipment and special-purpose research equipment, including image-processing and large-format graphics systems, eye-movement monitors, speech recognition and analysis systems, stereoscopic graphic systems, video equipment, EEG, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, and other stimulus-presentation and response-collection devices.

The biopsychology laboratories have a host of facilities necessary to conduct modern behavioral neuroscience research, including equipment for behavioral and operant testing, elctrophysiology, calcium imaging (2p and endoscopic), opto- and chemogenetics, histology, surgery, neurochemistry, and systems for the analysis of behavioral gestures as well as neural data.

Psychological and Brain Science faculty conduct anatomical and functional MRI studies on human physiology and cognition at the F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging at Kennedy Krieger Institute ( https://www.kennedykrieger.org/kirby-research-center ).

• Psychology, Bachelor of Arts
• Psychology, Minor
• Psychology, PhD

For current course information and registration go to  https://sis.jhu.edu/classes/

Behavioral Biology

Cognitive science, first year seminars, history of science, medicine, and technology, neuroscience.

Do we all see colors the same way? How did so many 'good' people support the Nazi party? Do crossword puzzles really stave off Alzheimer's Disease? This course tries to answer these questions and many others, providing a comprehensive overview of the scientific study of the mind. We'll explore topics such as perception, language, memory, decision-making, creativity, love, sex, art, politics, religion, dreams, drugs, brain damage and mental illness, grappling with deep and long-standing controversies along the way: differences between the sexes, the relationship between mind and brain, causes and consequences of racism, human uniqueness (or not) within the animal kingdom, nature vs. nurture, good and evil, consciousness. Appropriate for anyone wanting to know who and what we are as human beings (or who noticed that psychology is now on the MCAT).

Area: Natural Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences

Introductory survey of current research and theory on topics in cognitive psychology. The course will cover a range of topics in perception, attention, learning, reasoning, and memory, emphasizing relationships among mind, brain, and behavior.

An introductory survey of human development from the prenatal period through adolescence. The developing child is examined in terms of cognitive, social, emotional, motor, and language development.

Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences

An introductory survey of social psychology. Topics include social perception, social cognition, attitudes, prejudice, attraction, social influence, altruism, aggression, and group behavior.

A survey of neuropsychology relating the organization of behavior to the integrative action of the nervous system. Cross-listed with Behavioral Biology and Neuroscience.

In this seminar we discuss evolutionary psychology—the idea that the mind can be understood as an adaptation to our ancestral environment by means of natural selection. Topics range from nature vs. nurture and freewill vs. determinism to the exploration of how evolutionary principles speak to broad social issues such sexuality, gender, social class, and violence. Note: This course does not count towards the Psychology major.

This course examines the psychological disorders that are usually first diagnosed prior to adulthood. Some of the specific disorders that will be discussed are Attention-Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Learning Disorders and Intellectual Disability.Students will become familiar with various diagnoses, etiologies, and methods of treatment. Note: This course does not count toward the Psychology Major

Examine an overview of abnormal psychology (i.e., psychopathology), including its development, etiological/theoretical perspectives, diagnosis, and treatment. Broadly cover the DSM categories, with a focus on understanding the major features of the common disorders and the evidence-based treatment of these conditions.

The goal of this course is to introduce how psychological scientists develop and test research questions about the mind and behavior. We will explore how empirical investigation differs from other ways of making discoveries and learning about the world, and how psychologists employ various methodologies to tackle their phenomena of interest. We will examine the relationships between research questions and research designs, the benefits and drawbacks of differing measurement and sampling approaches, the ethical implications of various research paradigms, and best practices in communicating research findings clearly and engagingly. You will have the opportunity to engage “hands-on” with the research process through interactive labs and demonstrations. Over the course of the semester, you will develop and receive feedback on a research proposal, which will serve as a foundation for the spring course “Design and Analysis for Experimental Psychology”.

Area: Quantitative and Mathematical Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences

Writing Intensive

The goal of this course is to expose you to the processes of data collection, analysis, and dissemination in psychology. This course is the follow-up to “Research Methods in Experimental Psychology,” and therefore will draw on the methodological principles and practices covered in the Fall semester. This course will cover a wide array of analytical techniques (i.e., statistics) that you will apply to data collected as part of a semester-long group research project. The course will also include extensive coverage of the R programming language for use in data management, analysis, and visualization. With your group members, you will collect primary research data, carry out appropriate statistical tests, compose individual research manuscripts, and collectively present a poster at an on-campus research symposium. In combination with the Fall course, this class will serve as strong preparation for those considering honors theses, joining research labs at Homewood and/or JHMI, conducting independent research projects, and ultimately pursuing careers/graduate work in experimental psychology.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.200 (was AS.200.207)

The field of forensic psychology is focused on answering legal questions about the causes of human behavior. This survey course will explore the work that forensic psychologists do; their research, assessment, and clinical methods; and how their work influences lawyers, judges, and other legal practitioners. Specific topics will include mental capacity assessment, psychopathy, claims of mental distress, child custody evaluations, juvenile delinquency, forensic treatment, and forensic neuropsychological assessments.

“Psychological Profiling” focuses on strengths and limitations of psychological methods employed by forensic professionals who assist police in criminal investigations. Clinical cases of serial offenders, spree killers, disgruntled employees, police profiling, and terrorists will be studied. Legal and ethical issues will be explored, especially racial profiling controversies. We anticipate visits to the FBI Behavioral Sciences Unit at Quantico, Virginia; Baltimore County Forensic Crime Lab (with emphasis on crime scene analysis), and the Baltimore Police Profiling Program.This course does not count towards the psychology major.

This course examines how and why animal behaviors are produced across the animal kingdom. Neurobiological, hormonal and developmental mechanisms and adaptive function of behaviors are examined in an evolutionary context. Behaviors include survival, acquiring food, reproduction, communication, parental care, and cooperation. Students will also learn how to develop hypotheses and predictions for scientific questions and interpret graphical results.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.141 OR Permission of Instructor.

This is a survey course focused on theory and research on human personality. Topics include personality traits, motivation, unconscious processes, self-regulation, cognitive and behavioral aspects of personality, biological and evolutionary influences on personality, and dysfunctional manifestations of personality.

This course surveys how stimuli from the environment are transformed into neural signals, and how the brain processes those signals to interpret the objects and events in the world. A primary focus will be on the visual system, with additional coverage of hearing, touch, taste, and smell.

A survey of the major syndromes of psychological disorders. Research and theory about the mechanisms, development, and diagnosis of psychopathology are emphasized.

Why is there evil in the world? Are some born evil, or do social, environmental and cultural forces create evil? What makes otherwise good people do evil things? The scientific study of evil epitomizes the fundamental challenge that psychology faces in dissecting the role of biology (nature) and the social context (nurture). Credit earned through this course counts toward the 120-credit degree requirement but does not count towards the Psychology major/minor. Students must be aged 18 or older to enroll, due to the sensitive nature of the material in this course (e.g., research on violence).

The course will review the growing field of positive psychology and will review the research on positive human attributes such as optimism, happiness, hope, resiliency, self-esteem, altruism, empathy, and forgiveness. This course will explore the research on how such positive attributes are developed and how they relate to psychological and physical well-being.

Humans are unique in many ways but we are also members of the Primate order. As a result, we share rich foundations of our psychology with the other living primates, foundations we inherited from our common evolutionary ancestors. This course will explore the minds and mental lives of our closest primate relatives. What does the world look like from the perspective of a chimpanzee, or a lemur? How do they think, reason, and make decisions? How has their cognition evolved? We’ll cover basic aspects of primate biology, sociality, evolution, and cognitive representation, and then survey the many foundations of human thought that we share with other primates—from memory and planning to social intelligence and physical problem-solving. Psychology, behavioral biology & cog sci majors are preferred, but other majors are welcome.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.141 OR AS.200.101 OR AS.200.110 OR AS.200.132 OR AS.200.133 OR AS.050.102 OR AS.050.105 OR AS.150.245 OR Instructor Approval.

This course provides a survey of the field of Industrial and Organizational Psychology, a scientific discipline that studies human behavior in the workplace. The course focuses on understanding the psychological bases of work behaviors, cognitions, and emotions and practices that can be implemented to create a good fit between employees' characteristics and work demands. A number of topics are addressed in the scientist-practitioner model, including the structure/characteristics of jobs, techniques for assessing and supporting employee performance, selecting and training a workforce, and the various mechanisms that influence employee motivation and attitudes, among other topics. Real-world applications and research are emphasized throughout the course.

Behavioral neuroscience is the study of the neural basis of behavior of animals, including humans. This course will introduce the student to this field using a traditional lecture format. We will cover fundamental properties of brain structure and function, mechanisms of psychoactive drug action, and brain mechanisms of perception, homeostatic drives, learning and memory, and cognition. Along the way, we will touch on the biological bases for social interactions, as well as for behavioral and mental illnesses, such as addiction, depression and schizophrenia. A key focus will be understanding how behavioral neuroscientific research, past and present, leads to knowledge in this area.

Area: Natural Sciences

A survey of leading figures, schools, and systems in the history of psychology. The course will emphasize the development of experimental psychology in late 19th century Germany and its establishment in America at Johns Hopkins, Harvard, Chicago, and Columbia. Special topics will include the development of clinical and applied psychology and psychological testing. Enrollment limited to Juniors and Seniors only. Sophomores with instructor approval. Recommended Course Background: two prior Psychology courses.

Area: Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences

This course will survey the neural mechanisms of decision-making. Current experimental research and theory concerning selection, control, and evaluation of actions are examined in humans and animals. Topics will range from simple perceptual judgements to complex social behavior. The course involves a weekly lecture about a specific topic followed by a student presentation of a current research paper. Cross-listed with Neuroscience.

Prerequisite(s): AS.080.306 or instructor permission

Forensic psychologists determine clinical diagnoses and offer expert opinions to assist court decision makers who must employ legal tests to make case determinations. This course will explore how forensic psychologists communicate with the courts via consultation, report writing, and expert testimony. Students will write forensic analyses on a variety of controversial, cutting edge forensic topics (e.g., for competence to stand trial, child abuse, civil commitment, compensation for mental injuries, sex offender commitment, insanity, fitness for duty, child custody). Prerequisites: AS.200.202 OR AS.200.212

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.202 OR AS.200.212

Medical Psychology is a specialization within clinical psychology that focuses on the application of psychological theories, research, and techniques to physical health problems and health promotion. Students will learn about the consultation process and interventions used in medical psychology practice to improve the physical and psychological health of medical patients, including those with chronic conditions (e.g., chronic pain, heart disease) and those with acute illnesses and injuries. Enrollment limited to Junior & Senior Psychology Majors & Minors or with instructor approval. Prerequisite: AS.200.212

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.212

In this course we will explore the ways in which information from vision, hearing, touch, smell, and taste is encoded in the brain. We will compare and contrast different representation schemes and their computational advantages in order to uncover some overarching organizing principles of sensory processing in the brain. Class meetings will consist of lectures plus group discussions of classic papers in cognitive neuroscience, computational modeling, and neurophysiology. Enrollment limited to Juniors & Seniors.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.211 OR AS.080.203 OR AS.050.203 OR AS.200.141 OR AS.020.312

This course focuses on the intersection of substance use and mental health. Topics will include substance use disorders, the co-morbidity of substance use disorders and other mental health diagnoses, and substance use as a form of self-medication for mental health symptoms. We will explore abuse of substances including synthetic drugs, "street" drugs, and commonly abused prescription medications. We will review etiological factors, including psychological, neurobiological, genetic, and trauma-related factors, as well as evidenced-based treatments. We will also explore controversies about the diagnosis and conceptual models of substance use disorders and addiction and controversial treatments, such as methadone and suboxone. Psychology majors & minors or by permission of the instructor. Pre-requisite: AS.200.212 Abnormal Psychology, or by instructor permission.

This is a seminar surveying computational approaches to understanding mental and neural processes, including sensory and conceptual representation, categorization, learning and memory. The course will also develop familiarity with computational tools such as numerical simulation, linear transformation and data visualization. Enrollment limited to Juniors and Seniors. Recommended Course Background: AS.110.106 / Calculus I OR AS.110.108 Calculus I, AS.050.101 / Cognition OR AS.200.211 / Sensation & Perception OR AS.080.105 / Introduction to Neuroscience OR other introductory coursework in cognitive & neural sciences. Some basic experience with computer programming (any language) is recommended, although not required.

This course will investigate interpersonal processes ranging from attraction and courtship to relationship functioning and distress. Enrollment limited to Psychology majors and Psychology minors.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.133

This course focuses on mental disorders in children and adolescents. The course begins with an exploration of the general models and theories for why psychopathology occurs in childhood. The second portion of the course provides a systematic review of the symptoms, course, risk factors, theories, and treatments for specific disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, autism, ADHD, feeding disorders, and behavioral disorders. Restricted to Junior & Senior Psychology Majors & Minors, or permission of the instructor.

Clinical Neuropsychology is a clinical psychology specialty focused on assessment and treatment of acquired or developmental disorders of the nervous system, including dementia, neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, learning disabilities, and neurodevelopment disorders. This course will focus on research findings and techniques used by psychologists in the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation processes. Recommended Course Background: AS.200.141 / Foundations of Brain Behavior Cognition.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.141

This course explores modern-day social media use (e.g., Facebook, Match.com) through multiple theoretical lenses within psychology. Through weekly student-led discussions and readings, it will accomplish 3 aims: 1) applying psychology of identity, motivation, and communication to social media (e.g., self-presentation, intergroup dynamics), 2) investigating clinical/health implications of social media use (e.g., addiction, loneliness), and 3) exploring social media as data-gathering environments (e.g., user experience research from already committed guest-speakers who work in social media industries). Recommended Course Background: at least 1 course in introductory psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology and/or clinical psychology.

Have you ever wondered how babies, who appear to have little knowledge and limited abilities, manage to grow into adults capable of riding a bike, reading a novel, or mastering algebra? Are humans the only creatures capable of complex thought, or do other animals think like we do? And what about non-biological "minds" like Google and Siri; will they ever become as smart as? or smarter than? humans? In this course, we will tackle these questions and more. To explore the origins of human intelligence, we will examine early cognitive abilities in human infants. To better understand what makes human thinking similar to and different from that of other complex systems, we will dive into research on non-human animals and artificial intelligence. We will start with philosophical and psychological discussions of topics such as “What is a mind?” and “What counts as intelligence?” Then we will consider how different minds might work by exploring five central domains known to be important for human thought: intuitive physics, causal reasoning, numerical abilities, social cognition, and language. Course recommends that students to have taken introductory courses in psychology, cognitive science, and/or neuroscience ( AS.200.141 and/or AS.080.305 ) before enrolling.

An introduction to applications of psychological research in policy analysis. Special emphasis is given to the use and misuse of psychology in Supreme Court advocacy and decision making in the areas of children’s rights, adult sexuality, and educational and employment opportunity. Recommended Course Background: Statistics & Regression Analysis

Experiments in human cognition typically involve careful manipulation and control of variables in order to answer specific questions about the mind or brain. However, digital devices now provide an ocean of incidental human data: information collected continuously about our behavior and physiological states as we go about our lives. These incidental datasets are often large and noisy, and pose different analysis and visualization challenges from more traditional manipulated experiments. In this course students will learn computational tools and qualitative approaches for exploring, visualizing and interpreting large human data. The course emphasizes computer-based analysis of open-source human behavioral and neuroimaging datasets. Analyses will be conducted in MATLAB. Instructor will grant approval as long as you have previous programming experience (roughly equivalent to material covered in an introductory-level programming course). Self-taught or real-world experience can be applicable in lieu of previous formal classroom instruction.

The class will discuss a variety of original papers and book chapters on the following topics:1. What is intelligence?2. Origin and evolution of intelligence?3. Human brain and intelligence4. Machine intelligence5. Neural networkRecommended course background: neurobiology.

This course develops a theoretical understanding of the large-scale anatomical and functional organization of the human brain. We will discuss, present, and write about primary literature in the areas of theoretical and computational neuroscience, with connections to machine learning. The principles to be explored will include: hierarchy; normalization; pattern completion; prediction; gradient-based learning; and conjunctive representation. We will consider the broader motivation for each of these computational principles, and we will ask how successfully they organize the empirical data about our brains. Specific questions include: What are the functional benefits of a hierarchical anatomical organization of the cerebral cortex? Do neocortical circuits generically implement a normalization operation? How and why is pattern completion implemented in the neocortex and the hippocampus? Can gradient-based representational learning occur in the cerebral cortex without supervision or reinforcement signals? How is the flow of information between brain regions regulated? How can distinct cortical representations be "bound" into joint representations? Cal 1; Programming is not required, but students should be willing to engage with computational concepts. Course Prerequisites: a) AS.110.106 / Calculus I OR AS.110.108 Calculus I b) AS.050.101 / Cognition OR AS.200.211 / Sensation & Perception OR AS.080.105 / Introduction to Neuroscience OR AS.050.203 OR instructor permission.

Prerequisite(s): ( AS.110.106 OR AS.110.108 ) OR (AS.050.101 OR AS.200.211 OR AS.080.105 OR AS.050.203 )

The class is designed as a seminar including discussion of primary readings of social psychology articles ranging in topics from interpersonal relationship to behavior in large groups. Rising junior & senior Psychology majors only.

This class will survey the behavioral and biological science of human memory. Historical perspectives as well as modern controversies will be discussed. Intersections with other fields such as law, education, medicine, and technology will be highlighted. The course will be a mixture of lectures and group discussions.

Humans possess remarkable capacities for morality, politics, and culture. But where do these capacities come from and what cognitive mechanisms support them? In this seminar, we will take comparative and developmental perspectives to understand the origins of the social mind. We’ll explore how nonhuman animals, especially primates, represent and navigate their social worlds, and what makes the human mind unique. We’ll also explore the earliest manifestations of social intelligence that are present in human infancy, allowing babies to richly experience the social world long before they develop language. We’ll cover a range of topics, such as the abilities to remember other individuals and keep track of their social relationships and social groups, theory of mind, self-awareness, precursors of politics and morality, and the question of whether animals have culture. Enrollment limited to Junior & Senior Psychology, Neuroscience or Behavioral Biology majors/minors. Prerequisite: 200.132 Intro to Dev. Psych OR 200.133 Intro Social Psych OR 200.110 Intro Cog. Psych OR 200.141 Foundations of BBC OR instructor approval

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.132 OR AS.200.133 OR AS.200.110 OR AS.200.141

This course presents an overview of the nature of human diversity in psychology and fosters the critical examination of major diversity issues in psychology. Conceptual, historical, philosophical, and theoretical issues and empirical research are reviewed. Students develop sensitivity and critical thinking regarding issues in psychology research and professional practice that may be influenced by factors such as age, generational influence, ethnicity, race, religion and spirituality, gender, socioeconomic class, sexual orientation, national origin, disability and other cultural diversity topics. Current issues will be highlighted. Students will also be introduced to public health paradigms regarding the changing roles of psychology researchers and practitioners. This course is limited to Senior Psychology Majors and Minors. Junior Psychology Majors and Minors can request to enroll by instructor permission.

This course examines both the evolution and mechanisms of hormonal effects on behavior across animals, including humans. Topics will include the effects of hormones on sexual differentiation, reproductive behavior, parental behavior, stress and social behavior. Additionally, this course emphasizes developing skills in hypothesis testing and critically assessing the scientific literature. Cross-listed with Behvioral Biology and Neuroscience.

Prerequisite(s): ( AS.200.141 OR AS.080.306 ) OR ( AS.020.152 ) or instructor's permission

In what ways and why is human cognition limited? This seminar will focus on understanding and explaining the limitations and capabilities of human cognition through deep dives into a number of subtopics. Possible topics include: What is ‘intelligence,’ does it have quantifiable units and/or a substance-like underpinning. Why does thinking feel hard, why and how do we experience mental effort? What limits visual attention and working memory? Where does insight come from? Why do we forget things? What is creativity? What makes some concepts hard to learn? Why do we misunderstand science? How do we evaluate our own knowledge and understanding?

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.110

Topics in applied probability and statistical inference; analysis of variance; experimental design. Recommended Course Background: one statistics course.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.200 AND AS.200.201

Second half of statistics sequence, covering complex research design and analysis. Recommended Course Background: AS.200.357 . Enrollment limited to seniors by instructor approval.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.357

Psychological tests and measures are used in several settings including research, clinical, business, forensic, school and other applied settings. This course will consider the methodological and practical issues involved in test construction, the evaluation of instruments, and the uses of psychological tests across settings and for different purposes. Examples of assessments that may be discussed are aptitude and achievement tests; personality and behavioral inventories; neuropsychological tests, observations and interviews; and tests for employment and forensic use. Enrollment limited to Junior & Senior Cognitive Science & Psychology Majors, or instructor approval.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.201

This course examines the general organizing principles of the anatomy of the human central nervous system and how this anatomical organization relates to function, from the level of neural circuits, to systems, to behavior. Students will learn to identify neuroanatomical structures and pathways in dissections and MRI images through computerized exercises. Readings and lectures will emphasize general structure-function relationships and an understanding of the functional roles of particular structures in sensory, motor, and cognitive systems. Recommended Course Background in addition to pre-requisite AS.080.305 : AS.080.306 OR AS.050.203 OR AS.080.250

Prerequisite(s): AS.080.305

This course will cover advances in the field of research on positive psychology, happiness, and well-being, including perspectives on motivational and emotional wellness, cognitive processes, social-interpersonal dynamics, and sociocultural variables. We will explore topics including hobbies and leisure, mindfulness and meditation, money/income, ethics and religion, social media, marriage, friendship, economic institutions, school, the workplace, and more. Coursework includes reflection exercises, discussions, research proposals, fact-checking analyses, and presentations. Restricted to Senior & Junior Psychology majors & minors. Prerequisite: ( AS.200.133 OR AS.200.101 ) AND ( AS.200.212 OR 200.382) AND 200.222 or by instructor permission.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.222

Designed to provide information about how drugs affect the brain and behavior. The course focuses on biological concepts underlying structures and functions of the brain that relate to mental states. An introduction to neurobiology and brain function is presented as it applies to the interaction of various classes of drugs with the individual neurotransmitter systems in the brain. A brief historic review is followed by a discussion of clinical relevance. Cross-listed with Behavioral Biology and Neuroscience. Enrollment limited to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.141 OR AS.080.306 OR ( AS.020.306 AND AS.020.312 )

A comparative and evolutionary approach to understanding the neural underpinnings of biologically relevant behaviors in vertebrate and invertebrate animals. Enrollment limited to Juniors, Seniors or by instructor approval. Recommended course background: AS.200.141

The complexity of human behavior surpasses even our closest primate relatives. Only humans communicate through language, build complex technology, devise legal system and wage war. What neurobiological capacities set humans apart from other animals? This course will explore the neurobiology of cognition, focusing on cognitive domains that are particularly developed in the human species: language, social cognition, number, executive function and concepts. The course format will consist of lectures and in class workshops.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.141 OR AS.200.312 OR AS.080.105 OR AS.080.203 OR AS.050.203 OR AS.050.312

This course reviews the major models of psychotherapy, including psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, and family therapy, with a focus on modern and empirically supported treatments. The application of the models through the analysis of clinical case studies is emphasized. Restricted to Junior & Senior Psychology Majors. Instructor permission required to enroll.

How do nature and nurture shape the human mind? How does experience contribute to the development of visual perception, language and social reasoning? This course explores insights into these age-old questions from neuroscience and psychology. Studies of infant behavior reveal rich knowledge about objects and people in the first months of life. At the same time, experience has profound effects on behavior and neurobiology. For example, temporary absence of vision (i.e. blindness) during development permanently alters visual perception and the visual cortex. Key evidence also comes from studies of naturally occurring variation in human experience (e.g. blindness, deafness, socioeconomic and cultural differences). We will discuss what such studies of cognitive and neural function tell us about the origins of human cognition. This is a writing intensive course with weekly lectures and seminar style discussion of primary sources. Students will be required to write weekly responses to readings and a term paper.

Prerequisite(s): Students who have taken AS.200.363 are not eligible to take AS.200.385 .; AS.200.141 OR AS.050.105 OR AS.080.105 OR AS.050.203 OR AS.080.306

Occupational Health Psychology (OHP) concerns the application of psychology to improving the quality of work life, and to protecting and promoting the safety, satisfaction, health, and well-being of workers. This course will consider a broad range of topics in OHP including the role of work on well-being, job stress and burnout, diversity and work, safety climate, work-family balance, conflict, and counterproductive work behaviors. The emphasis will be on drawing connections between OHP theory and OHP practice and at the relationship between individual and organizational health and well-being. This class should be of interest to students interested in industrial/organizational psychology, social psychology, health psychology, clinical psychology, human factors, public health, preventive medicine, and industrial engineering.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.240 or instructor permission

An introduction to the varied career paths offered across the field of psychology, hosting a diverse representation of speakers from various Johns Hopkins institutions and the local Baltimore community.

Discussion of research activities in the Neural Systems and Behavior Lab. Discussion of research activities in the Neural Systems and Behavior Lab. This course is only available for undergraduate students currently working on research projects in the Moss Lab.

Qualified students can serve as undergraduate Teaching Assistants for psychology courses they have already taken at Hopkins (by faculty instructor invitation only). Each individual faculty instructor will determine TA responsibilities based upon departmental policy. Upon invitation, potential Teaching Assistants should forward the instructor invitation to the co-Director of Undergraduate Studies (Dr. Drigotas) and make a request in SIS to add the course using the instructor’s section number (e.g., 200.450 section 2). Dr. Drigotas will be approving requests in SIS.

Prerequisite(s): You must request Independent Academic Work using the Independent Academic Work form found in Student Self-Service: Registration, Online Forms.

The student chooses a research problem with the advice and approval of a faculty member. S/U grading only.

S/U grading only.

Psychological Readings represents an in-depth analysis of a psychological subject area not typically covered in departmental course offerings.  Students must have the support of a full time faculty sponsor and work with them to plan a curated set of readings and activities for the semester.

This is a required course for all first year PhD students in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences. The course covers foundational concepts and methods in neurobiology and cognitive neuroscience.

This is a required course for all first year PhD students in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences. The course covers foundational concepts and methods in cognition.

This course is designed to introduce students to core topics in psychological and brain sciences. Students will read seminal and contemporary papers in topics that cover the breadth of the field. Graduate students in Psychological and Brain Sciences.

This course is designed to introduce students to core topics in psychological and brain sciences. Students will read seminal and contemporary papers in topics that cover the breadth of the field. Graduate Students in Psychological & Brain Sciences.

Topics in applied probability and statistical inference; analysis of variance; experimental design. Intended for graduate students. Recommended Course Background: one statistics course.

Prerequisite(s): Statistics Sequence restriction: students who have completed any of these courses may not register: EN.550.211 OR EN.550.230 OR AS.280.345 OR EN.550.310 OR EN.550.311 OR EN.560.435 OR EN.550.420 OR EN.550.430 OR EN.560.348

Second half of graduate statistics sequence, covering complex research design and analysis. Recommended Course Background: AS.200.657 . Enrollment limited to seniors by instructor approval and graduate students.

Area: Quantitative and Mathematical Sciences

Focuses on frequently used quantitative methods in the study of brain sciences. Course goals include gaining conceptual understanding of analysis techniques, application of techniques to datasets, and learning the use of MATLAB. Topics will include dimensionality reduction, information theory, clustering and classification, optimization and model selection, and frequency domain methods. Enrollment is limited to graduate students and undergraduate seniors; seniors must receive permission from the instructor to enroll. Recommended (but not required) Course Background: Probability & Statistics, Linear Algebra, MATLAB programming.

An introduction to postdoctoral activities (e.g., grant applications, journal article submission, meeting presentations, the politics of psychology and American science) for Ph.D. candidates in psychology.

Professional development seminar for graduate students in Psychological & Brain Sciences. Topics include teaching, preparing a curriculum vita, types of employment, finding a job, writing and reviewing scientific papers, presenting work at professional meetings, preparing grant proposals, professional ethics, and care of animal and human subjects. Graduate students only.

This seminar will cover advanced topics in vision from the perspectives of several disciplines.Topics include human visual psychophysics, perception and cognition, and computational vision. Graduate students only.

In this seminar, we meet as a group to discuss current issues in our research, foundational topics in the study of the mind, as well as the challenges that arise in doing academic science.

Research Seminar on current research related to Psychological and Brain Science, presented by graduate students and post-doctoral fellows. Graduate students only.

Graduate students only.

Guided independent readings. The class is designed as a seminar including discussion of primary research articles of cognitive aging. Specific topics include human imaging and animal models of memory, aging, and neurodegenerative disease.

Students plan and execute original research under guidance of advisers. Results are usually prepared in a form suitable for publication. Graduate students only.

Advanced seminar covering topics related to cognitive research. Graduate Students only.

Research seminar covering current issues and ongoing research in cognition & biopsychology. Graduate students only.

Introduces advanced research topics to graduate students (as well as faculty) through a series of speakers and discussions.

All PhD candidates are required to obtain special experience in various aspects of undergraduate teaching. Graduate students only.

All PhD candidates are required to obtain advanced experience in various aspects of undergraduate teaching. This course is required for Teaching Assistants in order to satisfy graduate degree TA requirements. Graduate students only.

Preparation for the writing of research results into a final PhD dissertation form and other research publications. Graduate students only.

Advanced preparation for the writing of research results into a final PhD dissertation form and other research publications. Graduate students only.

Cross Listed Courses

This course is required concurrently with research in the Comparative Neural Systems Research and Behavior lab. During the scheduled meetings we will discuss scientific papers, policies and procedures, research ethics and other information related to activities in the lab. At the end of the semester, students will present their research in groups. This course is only open to students doing research in the Neural Systems and Behavior Lab.

This course is an advanced seminar and research practicum course. It will provide the opportunity to learn about fMRI methods used in the field of vision science and for students to have hands-on experience to develop, design and analyze a research study on topics in the cognitive neuroscience field of high-level vision. In the first part of the course students will read recent fMRI journal papers and learn about common fMRI designs and analysis methods; in the second part of the course students will conduct a research study to address a research question developed from readings. Students are expected to write a paper in a short journal article format at the end of the course and to present their results in front of the class. Research topics will vary but with special focus on topics in high-level visual processing.

Prerequisite(s): AS.050.105 OR AS.050.116 OR AS.050.203 OR AS.050.315 OR AS.050.332 OR AS.200.110

This is a survey course in developmental psychology designed for individuals with some basic background in psychology or cognitive science, but little or none in development. The course is strongly theoretically oriented, with emphasis on issues of nature, and development psychology as well as relevant empirical evidence. The principle focus will be early development, i.e., from conception through middle childhood. The course is organized topically, covering biological and prenatal development, perceptual and cognitive development, the nature and development of intelligence, and language learning. Also offered as AS.050.639 .

Have you ever wondered about the relationships between language and thought? Philosophers, linguists, psychologists, evolutionary theorists and cognitive scientists have too and this course will survey the current thinking on this matter. Classical papers such as those by Whorf and Sapir, more recent philosophical papers by people such as Fodor and Dennett, and recent empirical work by linguists and psycholingists on the relationship between language and thinking in development and in adults will be covered. Discussions will focus on the theoretically possible relationships between language and thought and the empirical data that speak to these. Juniors and seniors only. Freshmen and sophomores by permission of instructor only.

Prerequisite(s): AS.050.102 OR AS.050.320 OR AS.050.325 or instructor permission.

Area: Humanities, Natural Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences

The course gives an introduction to computational models of the mammalian visual cortex. It covers topics in low-, mid-, and high-level vision. It briefly discusses the relevant evidence from anatomy, electrophysiology, imaging (e.g., fMRI), and psychophysics. It concentrates on mathematical modeling of these phenomena taking into account recent progress in probabilistic models of computer vision and developments in machine learning, such as deep networks. Also offered as EN.601.485 .Required Background: Calculus I and experience in a programming language (Python preferred).

Prerequisite(s): Students who have taken EN.601.485 / EN.601.685 are not eligible to take AS.050.375 .; AS.110.106 OR AS.110.108

The course gives an introduction to computational models of the mammalian visual cortex. It covers topics in low-, mid-, and high-level vision. It briefly discusses the relevant evidence from anatomy, electrophysiology, imaging (e.g., fMRI), and psychophysics. It concentrates on mathematical modeling of these phenomena taking into account recent progress in probabilistic models of computer vision and developments in machine learning, such as deep networks. Also offered as EN.601.685 .Required Background: Calculus I and experience in a programming language (Python preferred).

Prerequisite(s): Students who have taken EN.601.485 / EN.601.685 are not eligible to take AS.050.675 .

This First-Year Seminar will explore the neuroscience of choice. In addition to exploring the neurobiology of choice, we will dabble with philosophical ideas of free will and determinism. We will also touch on questions related to culpability. For example, are people who break the law but suffer from brain damage responsible for their actions? Sound interesting? Well, why stop there? Let’s sit back, eat some popcorn and take a look at how popular culture depicts the neuroscience of choice in the movies. Yes, with your help, we can do it all – but will you choose to???

Most people think the strongest kind of evidence in a criminal case is a confident eyewitness. Most students think re-reading textbook materials or class notes is the best way to prepare for an exam. And all too many people think that measles vaccines cause autism. All three of these ideas are wrong. In this First-Year Seminar, we will explore what modern psychology has uncovered about how our intuitions concerning human nature deceive us, and lead to incorrect ideas such as the ones just mentioned. We will discuss a wide variety of topics including “the attention economy,” groupthink, and subliminal perception.

In this unique, 1-credit First-Year Seminar, we discuss evolutionary psychology—the idea that the mind can be understood as an adaptation to our ancestral environment by means of natural selection. Topics range from nature vs. nurture and freewill vs. determinism to the exploration of how evolutionary principles speak to broad social issues such sexuality, gender, social class, and violence.

This First-Year Seminar will explore seminal ideas in macroevolutionary theory through both classic and cutting-edge studies. Topics would include the relationship between evolution and development, how fossils shape our understanding of biological systems, and the logical basis of evolutionary inference. Students will also gain an appreciation for the historical development of these ideas and their application in modern science and beyond.

This First-Year Seminar looks at the deeper psychological motivations of the American electorate. We begin by discussing the meaning of democracy and establishing a common understanding of American democracy specifically, placing the current moment into historical and international context. We then gradually dismantle the "folk theory" of democracy that assumes all voters are rational and economically-minded. Instead, we apply theories from social psychology to understand some essential questions about voter behavior. Why do people vote? How do they understand politics? How are their feelings and judgments affected by their own identities, biases, information sources, and by the messages they hear from leaders? Why have Americans grown so polarized? What role do racial and gender-based prejudice play? Is American politics headed toward a more violent future? We use evidence-based research from political science, sociology, and psychology to answer these questions.

This First-Year Seminar will explore diverse aspects of how we see and fail to see the world. We’ll discuss questions such as: What can we learn about vision from illusions and hallucinations? What explains why we sometimes miss things even though we’re looking right at them? Does what we believe and desire affect what we see? What happens to our visual experience when the brain is damaged, for example in conditions such as “blindsight,” “neglect” and “visual form agnosia”? And: Is there such a thing as subliminal or unconscious perception? Though primarily psychological, the course will draw on other disciplines, especially the philosophy of perception. We’ll also think about some of the ways visual artists and magicians exploit the workings of our visual systems to achieve their aims. This will likely involve at least one outing to a local art gallery to look for examples of what we’ve learned, an in-class screening, and hopefully a guest speaker or two.

Animals have evolved a vast array of sensory systems that support a rich repertoire of natural behaviors. Some animals live in dark environments and use tactile, chemical, electrical and auditory sensors that allow them to operate in the absence of light. Other animals rely heavily on vision and take advantage of colors that humans cannot see. In this First-Year Seminar, we will explore extraordinary adaptations of sensory systems in animals that live on land and under water. Our focus will be on sensory systems that guide navigation and foraging behaviors in species as diverse as star-nosed moles, weakly electric fish, honeybees, and echolocating bats. As we delve into understanding the extraordinary sensory systems of selected species, we will also consider how these animals have inspired literary and visual artists. We aim to introduce students to a rich interdisciplinary experience that opens their eyes to new areas of inquiry as they take advantage of local resources, such as the National Aquarium, Baltimore Zoo, Wyman Park, Peabody School of Art, and Baltimore Museum of Art.

In recent decades, much has been done in the United States to destigmatize mental illness and incorporate psychiatric services into broader systems of healthcare and welfare. As clinicians, policy makers, social scientists, activists, and other stakeholders have collaborated to promote mental health and reintegrate people with behavioral disorders into society, they have often contrasted their efforts with those made in the past, portraying community-based approaches as more efficacious and humane. Narratives like these, however, deemphasize many important continuities in the history of American psychiatry. In this discussion-based course, students will explore how concerns about citizenship and social control have shaped the organization and provision of mental healthcare in the United States from the early nineteenth century to the present day. They will also complete various assignments designed to hone their ability to evaluate historical arguments, conduct independent and collaborative research on primary sources, and communicate the results of their scholarship to professional and lay audiences.

This course is an advanced survey of the scientific study of learning and memory. Different perspectives will be used to review the science of learning and memory including the cellular-molecular basis of synaptic plasticity, the functional circuitry involved in learning and memory and memory systems in the brain. The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the issues and current debates in learning and memory research and focuses specifically on animal models of memory and memory impairment. This is an interactive lecture course with a strong emphasis on student participation.

Prerequisite(s): AS.200.141 OR AS.080.306 OR ( AS.020.312 AND AS.020.306 ) or instructor permission.

Every day decisions often require us to weigh the costs and benefits of engaging in a particular course of action in order to obtain some expected outcome. Unfortunately, we often lack the information necessary to obtain our desired goal with complete certainty. Economists have long been interested in understanding human decision-making under these circumstances. In parallel, neuroscientists have made great strides at describing the underlying neural basis of simple decision-making. However, despite much progress in both fields, our understanding of how the brain makes decisions is incomplete. In order to strengthen and further research in both fields, the interdisciplinary field of Neuroeconomics arose. This course will survey the field of Neuroeconomics focusing on theoretical concepts developed by economists and the role these theories are playing in guiding current experimental neuroscience.

Prerequisite(s): AS.080.306 OR AS.200.141 OR AS.020.312

Investigate the most fundamental questions of behavior, mind, and brain.

You’ll gain a breadth of understanding and knowledge in the study of psychology through thoughtful relationships with advisors, engaged interactions with researchers, and involvement with the brain sciences community. Because the field and its related disciplines extend beyond the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences to other organizations, you can take advantage of diverse opportunities for research and collaboration, including the Mind-Brain Institute, School of Medicine, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Peabody Institute, and Applied Physics Laboratory. 

CLASSES YOU MIGHT TAKE

FYS: Why'd Your Brain Sign You up for This?

This First-Year Seminar will explore the neuroscience of choice. In addition to the neurobiology of choice, we’ll dabble with philosophical ideas of free will and determinism. We’ll also touch on questions related to culpability. For example, are people who break the law but suffer from brain damage responsible for their actions?

Personality

This is a survey course focused on theory and research on human personality. Topics include personality traits, motivation, unconscious processes, self-regulation, cognitive and behavioral aspects of personality, biological and evolutionary influences on personality, and dysfunctional manifestations of personality.

Happiness and Psychological Well-Being

This course covers advances in the field of research on positive psychology, happiness, and well-being, including perspectives on motivational and emotional wellness, cognitive processes, social-interpersonal dynamics, and sociocultural variables. We’ll explore topics like hobbies and leisure, mindfulness and meditation, money/income, ethics and religion, social media, marriage, friendship, economic institutions, school, the workplace, and more.

Faculty Spotlight

Prof. Chaz Firestone

Assistant Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain sciences

Image: Johns Hopkins Magazine

Science Sheds Light on Shaking Your Holiday Presents

Watching people shake presents reveals little-known quirk of human cognition.

JANICE CHEN

Assistant Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences

PROF. IAN PHILLIPS

Bloomberg Distinguished Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Department of Philosophy

Unscrambling Our Memories in the Wake of COVID-19

Recent research highlights the pandemic’s impact on our perception of time and memory. Can we jumpstart new memories, or is this shift permanent?

Join the Club

Hopkins students are eager to pursue their interests outside the classroom. With 450+ student-led organizations, here are just a few you could join:

• Undergraduate Steering Committee – Psychology Department
• Hopkins Psychedelic Science Club
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• Psi Chi Honor Society
• Psychology Mentor Program

Hopkins Insider

Anne C. ’10

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Psychology & Communication

Physical Address: 206 Student Health Center

Mailing Address: Psychology & Communication University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3043 Moscow, ID 83844-3043

Phone: 208-885-6324

Fax: 208-885-7710

Email: [email protected]

Web: Psychology and Communication

Master’s in Psychology, Human Factors Degree

Career information is not specific to degree level. Some career options may require an advanced degree.

Current Job Openings and Salary Range

in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Entry-Level

Senior-Level

• Career Options
• Clinical Research Coordinator
• Project Management Specialist
• Human Factor Engineers and Ergonomist
• Survey Researcher
• Social Science Research Assistant
• Psychology Teacher, Postsecondary

Regional Employment Trends

Employment trends and projected job growth in ID, WA, OR, MT & HI

*Job data is collected from national, state and private sources. For more information, visit EMSI's data sources page .

• Degree Prep

In order to be admitted into the program, your undergraduate degree can be in psychology or in a related field, such as engineering, computer science or business. You would need to have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0. Admission requirements also include the completion of a course in introductory statistics.

• Degree Roadmap

Graduate courses will include ergonomics and biomechanics, human-computer interaction, and advanced human factors. In addition, you will also take advanced courses in statistics and research methods.

• PSYC 444: Sensation & Perception
• PSYC 446: Engineering Psychology
• PSYC 512: Research Methods
• PSYC 513: Advanced Research Methods
• PSYC 509: Human Factors in Engineering Design
• PSYC 525: Cognitive Psychology
• PSYC 552: Ergonomics & Biomechanics
• PSYC 561: Human-Computer Interaction
• PSYC 562: Advanced Human Factors

This degree is offered both on campus and online. Inquire about online degree .

• Scholarships

Students who pursue the Human Factors degree on campus have historically been provided part-time assistantships that offset some portion of living expenses, tuition and fees.

The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences provides annual scholarship awards totaling approximately $1,600,000. For information on specific scholarships, please email  [email protected] .

You can find general need- and merit-based scholarships on the Financial Aid Office's scholarships page.

To learn more about FAFSA deadlines and processes, available scholarships, and financial aid program types and eligibility requirements, please visit the University of Idaho Financial Aid Office .

• Hands-On Learning

Students are encouraged to apply the knowledge gained through coursework through active participation in research in a variety of specialty areas. These include human-computer interaction, advanced displays for aviation and process control, simulation and virtual environments, driving and surface transportation, computer security, alarm technology, physiological indicators of stress and workload, sound perception, cyclist and pedestrian safety, and the emerging fields of augmented cognition and neuroergonomics.

• Internships

Students in our program often complete professional internships with various companies and organizations, including Intel, Motorola, HP, Daimler-Chrysler, UserCentric, the Idaho National Lab and the University of Idaho's media development team.

• Job Openings and Salary Range
• Employment Trends

Looking Further into Behavior

The Master of Science in Psychology, Human Factors emphasis is a research-heavy program that examines why people do things the way they do. Considering the rapid evolution of technology over the past two decades, this question remains at the heart of both human development and the user experience. To explore where these areas intersect and how their overlap can collectively improve product design and delivery, this human factors degree program blends traditional psychology disciplines with modern-day engineering principles.

Through coursework and research, students apply these concepts to understand and improve how people engage with technology and products and examine this relationship within the context of mental health, human interactions and development, drug addiction, the workplace and consumer behavior.

Career wise, students who have finished this degree program find themselves working as researchers and user-experience engineers who seek to enhance the ways consumers interact with products, software, computers, and equipment. Opportunities exist in business, management, human services, and web and product design, with the goal of refining everyday human systems, interaction and capabilities.

• Flexible Formats: In addition to our on-campus program, we offer this degree fully online with all full-time online students paying in-state tuition.
• Scope: Human factors deals with a large range of applied topics — like product design, human performance and human error, human-machine and human-computer interaction, interface design, safety and ergonomics.
• Facilities: The Human Factors Program at the University of Idaho has a number of on-campus laboratory facilities in which students conduct state-of-the-art research projects.
• Careers: Graduates of our program have found rewarding employment in diverse fields, including software and web usability, product development, consulting, public safety, healthcare, nuclear power, surface transportation, aviation systems and research.
• Requirements: Candidates interested in applying must meet the requirements for the College of Graduate Studies and the Department of Psychology and Communication. Review all requirements  before beginning your application.

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50 Best Colleges for Psychology – 2024

May 10, 2024

Psychology continues to be one of the most popular majors in the country. In fact, more college grads obtain psychology degrees each year than English, Math, Economics, and Philosophy combined . Of course, the world is not populated by billions of “psychologists”; many degree holders enter related fields like social work, rehabilitation counseling, or mental health case management, while others explore private sector jobs in marketing, sales, or human resources. To become an actual psychologist, you’ll have to enter highly-competitive graduate programs. Whether you have years of training beyond your undergraduate degree ahead of you or a career in social services or business, earning a degree from a school on our list of the Best Colleges for Psychology is a step in the right direction.

You can read more about the educational path ahead by checking out our article How to Become a Psychologist .

Methodology 

Click here to read our methodology for the Best Colleges for Psychology.

Best Colleges for Psychology

Here’s a quick preview of the first ten psychology institutions that made our list. Detailed profiles and stats can be found when you scroll below.

1) University of Michigan

2) Wesleyan University

3) Williams College

4) Columbia University

5) University of California, Santa Barbara

6) University of Chicago

7) Duke University

8) Stanford University

9) Harvard University

10) Boston College

All of the schools profiled below have stellar reputations in the area of psychology and commit substantial resources to undergraduate education. For each of the best psychology colleges, College Transitions will provide you with—when available—the university’s:

• Cost of Attendance
• Acceptance Rate
• Median  SAT
• Median  ACT
• Retention Rate
• Graduation Rate

We will also include a longer write-up of each college’s:

• Academic Highlights – Includes facts like student-to-faculty ratio, average class size, number of majors offered, and most popular majors.
• Professional Outcomes – Includes info on the rate of positive outcomes, companies employing alumni, and graduate school acceptances.

University of Michigan

• Ann Arbor, MI

Academic Highlights: There are 280+ undergraduate degree programs across fourteen schools and colleges, and the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) enrolls the majority of students. The Ross School of Business offers highly rated programs in entrepreneurship, management, accounting, and finance. The College of Engineering is also one of the best in the country. By degrees conferred, engineering (15%), computer science (14%), and the social sciences (11%) are most popular. A solid 56% of classes have fewer than 20 students.

Professional Outcomes: Within three months of graduating, 89% of LSA grads are employed full-time or in graduate school, with healthcare, education, law, banking, research, nonprofit work, and consulting being the most popular sectors. Within three months, 99% of Ross grads are employed with a median salary of $90k. Top employers include Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, EY, Morgan Stanley, PwC, Deloitte, and Amazon.  Within six months, 96% of engineering grads are employed (average salary of $84k) or in grad school. General Motors, Ford, Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Meta employ the greatest number of alumni.

• Enrollment: 32,695 (undergraduate); 18,530 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $35,450 (in-state); $76,294 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1470
• Median ACT: 33
• Acceptance Rate: 18%
• Retention Rate: 97%
• Graduation Rate: 93%

Wesleyan University

• Middletown, CT

Academic Highlights: With 45 majors and 32 minors, Wes truly has something for everyone. The academic requirements are relatively minimal, giving undergrads a high degree of intellectual freedom. Under 75% of class sections have fewer than twenty students; students rave about the accessible faculty. Research opportunities with professors are plentiful. Offerings in economics, English, film studies, and neuroscience typically receive the most praise from employers/grad schools; accordingly, the social sciences (24%), psychology (17%), and the visual and performing arts (12%) are the most popular.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduating, 66% of 2022 grads had entered employment, with tech/engineering/sciences, education, and arts/entertainment being the three top sectors. The companies employing the highest numbers of recent Wesleyan grads included Google, Epic, Analysis Group, Boston Medical Center, Booz Allen Hamilton, Accenture, and Apple. Graduate school was the next stop for 18% of new alums; enrolling institutions included MIT, Stanford, Berkeley, Yale, Harvard, Temple, and UMass.

• Enrollment: 3,069 (undergraduate); 184 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,094
• Median SAT: 1430
• Median ACT: 32
• Acceptance Rate: 14%
• Retention Rate: 95%

Williams College

• Williamstown, MA

Academic Highlights: The school’s 25 academic departments offer 36 majors and a number of concentrations rather than minors. An unparalleled 40% of courses have fewer than ten students enrolled; the median class size is 12 students. Programs in economics, English, history, math, and political science are especially renowned, and the greatest number of degrees are conferred in the social sciences (26%), the physical sciences (10%), math and statistics (9%), psychology (9%), and computer science (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Among the Class of 2022, 92% were employed or continuing their educational journey within six months of graduating. Business and education typically attract the most students, with popular companies/organizations including Apple, Google, Goldman Sachs, The New York Times Co., the Peace Corps, and Teach for America. The median annual income for 2022 grads was $75,000. 75% pursue an advanced degree within five years of leaving Williams, with the most frequently attended graduate programs being Harvard, Columbia, and Yale.

• Enrollment: 2,152 (undergraduate); 53 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $81,160
• Median SAT: 1520
• Median ACT: 35
• Acceptance Rate: 8%
• Graduation Rate: 95%

Columbia University

• New York, NY

Academic Highlights: Columbia offers 100+ unique areas of undergraduate study as well as a number of pre-professional and accelerated graduate programs.  Class sizes at Columbia are reasonably small and the student-to-faculty ratio is favorable; however, in 2022, it was revealed that the university had been submitting faulty data in this area. It is presently believed that 58% of undergraduate courses enroll 19 or fewer students. The greatest number of degrees are conferred in the social sciences (22%), computer science (15%), engineering (14%), and biology (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Examining the most recent graduates from Columbia College and the Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Science, 73% had found employment within six months, and 20% had entered graduate school. The median starting salary for graduates of Columbia College/Columbia Engineering is above $80,000. Many graduates get hired by the likes of Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Google, Citi, McKinsey, and Microsoft.

• Enrollment: 8,832
• Cost of Attendance: $89,587
• Median SAT: 1540
• Acceptance Rate: 4%
• Retention Rate: 98%

University of California, Santa Barbara

• Santa Barbara, CA

Academic Highlights: There are 90 undergraduate majors across three schools: the College of Letters and Science, the College of Engineering, and the College of Creative Studies. The social sciences are the most popular area of study, accounting for 27% of the total degrees conferred. Biology (10%), math (9%), and psychology (9%) are next in popularity. The school has highly regarded programs in communication, computer science, engineering, physics, environmental science, and the performing arts. More than half of sections contain fewer than 20 students, and 72% enroll 29 or fewer.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of earning their diplomas, 84% of grads had found employment. The most popular industries were science/research (16%), engineering/computer programming (14%), business (13%), finance/accounting (11%), and sales (10%). Top employers of recent grads include Google, EY, KPMG, Oracle, Amazon, IBM, and Adobe. Many alumni also can be found at Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Two years after graduating, UCSB alumni make an average salary of $55k; more than half make $100k by mid-career.

• Enrollment: 23,460 (undergraduate); 2,961 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $41,289 (in-state); $73,863 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: Test Blind
• Median ACT: Test Blind
• Acceptance Rate: 28%
• Retention Rate: 92%
• Graduation Rate: 86%

University of Chicago

• Chicago, IL

Academic Highlights: There are 53 majors at UChicago, but close to half of all degrees conferred are in four majors: economics, biology, mathematics, and political science, all of which have particularly sterling reputations. Economics alone is the selection of roughly one-fifth of the undergraduate population. Over 75% of undergrad sections have an enrollment of nineteen or fewer students, and undergraduate research opportunities are ubiquitous as 80% of students end up working in a research capacity alongside a faculty member.

Professional Outcomes: On commencement day, 99% of the Class of 2023 were employed or continuing their education. Business and financial services (30%) and STEM (12%) were the two sectors that scooped up the most graduates, but public policy and consulting were also well-represented. The most popular employers of recent grads include Google, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey & Company, Bank of America, Citi, and Accenture. For those heading to grad school, the top seven destinations are Yale, Columbia, Penn, MIT, Stanford, UCLA, and Johns Hopkins.

• Enrollment: 7,653 (undergraduate); 10,870 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,040
• Acceptance Rate: 5%
• Retention Rate: 99%
• Graduation Rate: 96%

Duke University

Academic Highlights: The academic offerings at Duke include 53 majors, 52 minors, and 23 interdisciplinary certificates. Class sizes are on the small side—71% are nineteen or fewer, and almost one-quarter are less than ten. A stellar 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio helps keep classes so reasonable even while catering to five figures worth of graduate students. Computer Science is the most popular area of concentration (11%), followed by economics (10%), public policy (9%), biology (8%), and computer engineering (7%).

Professional Outcomes: At graduation, approximately 70% of Duke diploma-earners enter the world of work, 20% continue into graduate schools, and 2% start their own businesses. The industries that attract the largest percentage of Blue Devils are tech (21%), finance (15%), business (15%), healthcare (9%), and science/research (6%). Of the 20% headed into graduate school, a hefty 22% are attending medical school, 18% are in PhD programs, and 12% are entering law school. The med school acceptance rate is 85%, more than twice the national average.

• Enrollment: 6,640
• Cost of Attendance: $85,238
• SAT Range: 1490-1570
• ACT Range: 34-35
• Acceptance Rate: 6%
• Graduation Rate: 97%

Stanford University

• Palo Alto, CA

Academic Highlights: Stanford has three undergraduate schools: the School of Humanities & Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the School of Earth, Energy, and Environmental Sciences. 69% of classes have fewer than twenty students, and 34% have a single-digit enrollment. Programs in engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, international relations, and economics are arguably the best anywhere. In terms of sheer volume, the greatest number of degrees are conferred in the social sciences (17%), computer science (16%), engineering (15%), and interdisciplinary studies (13%).

Professional Outcomes: Stanford grads entering the working world flock to three major industries in equal distribution: business/finance/consulting/retail (19%); computer, IT (19%); and public policy and service, international affairs (19%). Among the companies employing the largest number of recent grads are Accenture, Apple, Bain, Cisco, Meta, Goldman Sachs, Google, McKinsey, Microsoft, and SpaceX. Other companies that employ hundreds of Cardinal alums include LinkedIn, Salesforce, and Airbnb. Starting salaries for Stanford grads are among the highest in the country.

• Enrollment: 8,049 (undergraduate); 10,236 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $87,833

Harvard University

• Cambridge, MA

Academic Highlights: There are 50 undergraduate fields of study referred to as concentrations; many are interdisciplinary. Even with a graduate population of over 14,000 to cater to, undergraduate class sizes still tend to be small, with 42% of sections having single-digit enrollments and 71% being capped at nineteen. Economics, government, and computer science are the three most popular areas of concentration at Harvard. Biology, chemistry, physics, math, statistics, sociology, history, English, and psychology all sit atop most departmental ranking lists.

Professional Outcomes: The Crimson Class of 2022 saw 15% of students head directly into graduate/professional school. Of the graduates entering the world of work (virtually everyone else), 58% were entering either the consulting, finance, or technology field. Over 1,000 Harvard alumni presently work for Google and over 500 for Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and Goldman Sachs. Turning our attention to those moving on to graduate school, Harvard grads with at least a 3.5 GPA typically enjoy acceptance rates into medical school of 90% or greater.

• Enrollment: 7,240
• Cost of Attendance: $79,450
• Median SAT: 1550
• Acceptance Rate: 3%
• Graduation Rate: 98%

Boston College

• Chestnut Hill, MA

Academic Highlights: The college offers roughly 60 majors across four schools that award undergraduate degrees. Approximately half of the college’s sections contain nineteen or fewer students. 95% of graduates reported learning how to think critically at BC, and 93% said they learned how to write clearly and effectively. BC offers highly respected programs in communications, psychology, and business through the renowned Carroll School of Management. Other popular and well-regarded majors include economics, biology, and chemistry.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduation, 96% of the Class of 2022 had landed at their next destination. The most favored industries were financial services and real estate (26%), health care/science (20%), and business/consulting (16%). The median starting salary for a 2022 BC grad was $67,000. Eighteen percent of the Class of 2022 entered graduate schools including Brown, Columbia, the University of Chicago, and Yale. Examining the Class of 2022 data, 16% entered law school, and 14% pursued some other type of doctoral degree.

• Enrollment: 9,484
• Cost of Attendance: $86,155
• Average SAT: 1482
• Average ACT: 34
• Acceptance Rate: 17%
• Graduation Rate: 92%

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Chapel Hill, NC

Academic Highlights: Undergraduates can choose from 74 bachelor’s degree programs in a number of schools and colleges, the largest of which is the College of Arts & Sciences. 44% of classes have a student enrollment under 20. The social sciences (15%), biology (12%), media/journalism (9%), computer science (8%), and business (6%) are the areas in which the most degrees are conferred. The Kenan-Flager Business School is internationally renowned and requires separate admission. Other strong programs include those in chemistry, journalism, psychology, and political science.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after leaving Chapel Hill, 97% of 2022 grads had entered employment, military service, or graduate school. Among the for-profit companies that hire the most graduates are Wells Fargo, IBM, Cisco, Deloitte, EY, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, McKinsey & Company, and Goldman Sachs. In the nonprofit sector, a large number of alumni are employed by AmeriCorps, NIH, Teach for America, and the Peace Corps. The average starting salary is $70,619. 18% of 2022 grads enrolled directly in graduate/professional school.

• Enrollment: 20,210 (undergraduate); 11,739 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $27,036 (in-state); $60,040 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1450
• Retention Rate: 96%
• Graduation Rate: 91%

Barnard College

Academic Highlights: Barnard has a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, and a sensational 71% of courses are capped at nineteen or fewer students; 18% have fewer than ten. Many get the chance to engage in research alongside a professor as 240+ undergraduates are granted such an opportunity through the Summer Research Institute each year. Barnard’s most popular majors, by number of degrees conferred, include economics, English, political science, history, psychology, neuroscience, computer science, and art history.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduation, 91% of 2022 Barnard grads had found employment or were enrolled in a graduate program. JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Blackrock, Citibank, and Morgan Stanley all appear on the list of the top fifteen employers of Barnard alumni. Within ten years of graduation, over 80% of Barnard alums eventually enroll in graduate school. Those entering graduate school flock in large numbers to Columbia, with 112 heading there over the last three years.

• Enrollment: 3,442
• Cost of Attendance: $90,928
• Median SAT: 1490
• Acceptance Rate: 9%

University of California, San Diego

• San Diego, CA

Academic Highlights: There are 140+ undergraduate majors offered at UCSD, and all students join one of eight undergraduate colleges meant to forge flourishing communities within the larger university. Biology has the highest representation of all majors (19%) followed by engineering (12%), the social sciences (11%), and computer science (9%). UCSD’s computer science and engineering programs have stellar reputations in the corporate and tech communities, and programs in biology, economics, and political science are among the best anywhere.

Professional Outcomes: Employers of recent graduates included the Walt Disney Company, Tesla, NBC Universal, PwC, Northrop Grumman, and EY. More than 1,000 current Google employees are UC San Diego alumni, and Qualcomm, Amazon, and Apple all employ 500+ each. The median early career salary is $65,000 across all majors, placing the university in the top 10 public universities in the country. UCSD also fares well in measures of its return-on-investment potential.

• Enrollment: 33,096 (undergraduate); 8,386 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $31,830 (in-state); $64,404 (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• Retention Rate: 93%
• Graduation Rate: 88%

University of Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA

Academic Highlights : 90 distinct degrees are available across four schools: the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Applied Science and Engineering, the College of Nursing, and the world-renowned Wharton School. The greatest number of students pursue degrees in business (19%), social sciences (14%), biology (11%), health sciences (9%), engineering (9%), and computer science (9%). The university boasts an exceptional 26% of courses with an enrollment under ten and 59% with an enrollment under twenty as well as multiple ways for undergrads to conduct research.

Professional Outcomes: 75% of Class of 2022 grads were employed within six months of graduating, and 18% were in graduate school. Finance attracted the highest percentage of grads (30%) followed by consulting (20%), technology (15%), and healthcare (10%). Employers hiring the greatest number of 2022 grads included JPMorgan, Boston Consulting Group, McKinsey, Bain & Company, Meta, and Goldman Sachs. The median starting salary for all graduates is $80,000. For those continuing their educational journeys, the most popular move is to remain at Penn, followed by Columbia and Harvard.

• Enrollment: 9,760 (undergraduate); 13,614 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,028
• Acceptance Rate: 7%

Washington University in St. Louis

• St. Louis, MO

Academic Highlights : WashU admits students into five schools, many of which offer nationally recognized programs: Arts & Sciences, the Olin School of Business, the School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, and the Art of Architecture programs housed within the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts. The most commonly conferred degrees are in engineering (13%), social sciences (13%), business (13%), biology (11%), and psychology (10%). 66% of classes have fewer than 20 students, and over one-quarter have single-digit enrollments. 65% double major or pursue a minor.

Professional Outcomes: The Class of 2022 sent 52% of grads into the workforce and 28% into graduate and professional schools. Companies employing the highest number of WashU grads feature sought-after employers such as Amazon, Bain, Boeing, Deloitte, Google, IBM, Goldman Sachs, and Microsoft. Of the employed members of the Class of 2022 who reported their starting salaries, 79% made more than $60k. The universities welcoming the largest number of Bears included the prestigious institutions of Caltech, Columbia, Harvard, Penn, Princeton, and Stanford.

• Enrollment: 8,132 (undergraduate); 8,880 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $83,760
• Median SAT: 1530
• Median ACT: 34
• Acceptance Rate: 11%

Claremont McKenna College

• Claremont, CA

Academic Highlights: CMC offers 33 majors and 11 “sequences,” series of courses that can be completed across the neighboring schools in addition to one’s major. The college boasts an average class size of eighteen, and 82% of course sections have fewer than twenty students. Economics, government, international relations, biology, and psychology are the most popular majors, and among the strongest. Interdisciplinary majors such as Environment, Economics, and Politics (EEP) and Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) also carry outstanding reputations.

Professional Outcomes: Eighty-eight percent of 2022 graduates found employment within six months of graduation, and only 4% were still looking for work. The median starting salary for a 2022 Claremont grad is $87,000. You name the prestigious graduate/professional program and, chances are, a recent CMC grad (or two or three) is presently studying there. Since 2001, more than 120 alumni have enrolled at USC and UCLA. More than 60 grads have headed to UChicago, Columbia, and Stanford.

• Enrollment: 1,386
• Cost of Attendance: $86,500
• Median SAT: 1500
• Acceptance Rate: 10%

University of California, Berkeley

• Berkeley, CA

Academic Highlights: More than 150 undergraduate majors and minors are available across six schools: the College of Letters and Science, the College of Chemistry, the College of Engineering, the College of Environmental Design, the College of Natural Resources, and the Haas School of Business. Many departments have top international reputations including computer science, engineering, chemistry, English, psychology, and economics. 22% of sections contain nine or fewer students, and over 55% of students assist faculty with a research project or complete a research methods course.

Professional Outcomes: Upon graduating, 49% of Cal’s Class of 2022 had already secured employment, and 20% were headed to graduate school. Business is the most popular sector, attracting 62% of employed grads; next up are industrial (17%), education (8%), and nonprofit work (7%). The median starting salary was $86,459 across all majors. Thousands of alumni can be found in the offices of Google, Apple, and Meta, and 500+ Golden Bears are currently employed by Oracle, Amazon, and Microsoft. The school is the number one all-time producer of Peace Corps volunteers.

• Enrollment: 32,831 (undergraduate); 12,914 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $48,574 (in-state); $82,774 (out-of-state)
• Graduation Rate: 94%

Dartmouth College

• Hanover, NH

Academic Highlights: Dartmouth sports 60+ majors and a stunning breadth of course selections for an institution of its size. The learning environment at Dartmouth is extraordinarily intimate. Not only do 61% of course sections have under twenty students, but 18% have single-digit enrollments. The student-to-faculty ratio is an outstanding 7:1. Top programs offered by Big Green include biology, economics, neuroscience, and government. The social sciences are the most popular, accounting for 32% of degrees conferred, followed by computer science (10%), mathematics (9%), engineering (9%), and biology (7%).

Professional Outcomes: A great reputation along with a passionate alumni network that is 80,000 strong leads Dartmouth grads to successful transitions into graduate school and the world of work. Included in the top ten employers of Dartmouth grads are a number of investment banks including Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Bain & Company, Citibank, and Deutsche Bank. Right off the bat, 52% of graduates make more than $70,000 in salary. Those pursuing graduate degrees often flock to the likes of Harvard, Columbia, and Princeton.

• Enrollment: 4,458
• Cost of Attendance: $87,793

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Champaign-Urbana, IL

Academic Highlights: Eight of UIUC’s fifteen schools cater to undergraduate students. There are 150 academic programs offered, including those at the acclaimed Grainger College of Engineering and Gies College of Business. In sheer volume of degrees conferred, engineering and business/marketing are tied at 19%, followed by the social sciences (9%) and psychology (6%). 39% of sections are capped at 19 students. 29% of undergraduates work with a faculty member on a research project; another 22% have some type of fieldwork, practicum, or clinical experience.

Professional Outcomes: 95% of the members of the Class of 2022 landed at their next destination within six months of graduation, with 38% matriculating directly into an advanced degree program. 57% were employed full-time; the most popular sectors were finance, consulting, healthcare, electronics, and education. Corporations landing the most recent Illini grads were KPMG, Deloitte, Epic Systems, EY, PwC, and Amazon. The average salary across all Class of 2022 majors was an extremely solid $75,000.

• Enrollment: 35,120 (undergraduate); 21,796 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $35,926-$41,190 (in-state); $55,386-$63,290 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1440
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Graduation Rate: 85%

Wellesley College

• Wellesley, MA

Academic Highlights: There are 50+ departmental and interdisciplinary majors. Thirty-six percent of course sections have single-digit enrollments while 77% have 19 or fewer students. In addition, opportunities for participation in research with faculty members abound. Most programs possess sterling reputations, including chemistry, computer science, neuroscience, and political science, but the Department of Economics shines most brightly, leading many into PhD programs and high-profile careers. Economics, biology, and computer science are the most frequently conferred degrees.

Professional Outcomes : Six months after graduating, 97% of the Class of 2022 had achieved positive outcomes. Of the 76% of grads who were employed, 24% were working in the finance/consulting/business fields, 17% in education, 17% in internet and technology & engineering, and 15% in healthcare/life sciences. Top employers included JPMorgan Chase, Google, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Goldman Sachs. The average starting salary for one recent cohort was a solid $63k. Of the 20% of 2022 grads who directly entered an advanced degree program, common schools attended included Harvard, Columbia, Brown, Stanford, MIT, and Emory.

• Enrollment: 2,447
• Cost of Attendance: $84,240
• Graduation Rate: 90%

Bates College

• Lewiston, ME

Academic Highlights: Thirty-four percent of courses at Bates have a single-digit enrollment, and 63% of classrooms contain nineteen or fewer students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 10:1, and not a single graduate student is present to vacuum up professorial attention. Twenty-eight percent of all degrees earned at Bates are in the social sciences, and psychology (14%), biology (13%), and the physical sciences (7%) are next in popularity. Though strong across many disciplines, Bates boasts exemplary programs in political science, art, philosophy, economics, and psychology.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduation, 99% of the Class of 2022 were either employed, enrolled in graduate school, or otherwise meaningfully engaged in a fellowship or internship. The most frequently entered fields were healthcare (17%), education (16%), finance/banking (14%), and technology (7%). Within ten years of graduation, approximately 13% of Bates graduates are in, or have completed, law school whereas 7% enroll in medical school.

• Enrollment: 1,790
• Cost of Attendance: $81,382

Princeton University

• Princeton, NJ

Academic Highlights: 39 majors are available at Princeton. Just under three-quarters of class sections have an enrollment of 19 or fewer students, and 31% have fewer than ten students. Princeton is known for its commitment to undergraduate teaching, and students consistently rate professors as accessible and helpful. The Engineering Department is widely recognized as one of the country’s best, as is the School of Public and International Affairs.

Professional Highlights: Over 95% of a typical Tiger class finds their next destination within six months of graduating. Large numbers of recent grads flock to the fields of business and engineering, health/science, & tech. Companies presently employing hundreds of Tiger alumni include Google, Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, Morgan Stanley, IBM, and Meta. The average salary ranges from $40k (education, health care, or social services) to $100k (computer/mathematical positions). Between 15-20% of graduating Tigers head directly to graduate/professional school.

• Enrollment: 5,604 (undergraduate); 3,238 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $86,700

Davidson College

• Davidson, NC

Academic Highlights: With its small size, the impressive part of the college is the exceptional quality of its offerings, not the breadth of them, as only 37 majors are available. The student-to-faculty ratio is 9:1, which allows the college to ensure that 62% have fewer than twenty students and 24% have enrollments you can count on two hands. Overall, the average number of students per class is only 18. Top programs at Davidson include psychology, political science, chemistry, and English; biology is also quite popular, accounting for 12% of degrees conferred in 2022.

Professional Outcomes: Looking at the outcomes data for 2022 grads, 70% landed jobs within six months of graduation, 26% were enrolled in a graduate program, and 3% were still seeking employment. Of those who attended grad school, the highest number were in healthcare-related programs (including MDs), law school, and laboratory sciences. Significant numbers of students pursue advanced degrees at other Southern gems including Vanderbilt, Emory, Duke, Wake Forest, and UNC.

• Enrollment: 1,927
• Cost of Attendance: $76,450
• Retention Rate: 94%

University of Wisconsin – Madison

• Madison, WI

Academic Highlights: There are 230+ undergraduate majors offered across eight schools and colleges, including the top-ranked School of Business and College of Engineering as well as the College of Letters and Science, the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and the Schools of Nursing, Education, Pharmacy, and Human Ecology. Undergrads can expect a mix of large and small classes, with 44% of sections enrolling fewer than 20 students. Business (18%), biology (12%), the social sciences (11%), and engineering (10%) are most popular.

Professional Outcomes: In a recent year, 46% of job-seeking grads graduated with an offer.  Top employers included UW-Madison, Epic, Kohl’s, Oracle, Deloitte, and UW Health. Across all graduating years, companies employing 250+ alumni include Google, Target, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, PwC, Accenture, and Meta. 28% of recent grads enrolled directly in graduate/professional school; the majority stayed at UW–Madison while others headed to Columbia, Northwestern, and Carnegie Mellon. The university is the top producer of Peace Corps volunteers.

• Enrollment: 37,230 (undergraduate); 12,656 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $28,916 (in-state); $58,912 (out-of-state)
• Median ACT: 30
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• Graduation Rate: 89%

The University of Texas at Austin

Academic Highlights: UT Austin offers over 150 majors, including those at the Cockrell School of Engineering, one of the most heralded undergraduate engineering schools around, and The McCombs School of Business, which dominates in the specialty areas of accounting and marketing. The computer science department is also top-ranked. In terms of degrees conferred, engineering is tied with biology (12%) followed by communication (11%), business (11%), and the social sciences (8%). The elite Plan II Honors Program is one of the best in the country.

Professional Outcomes: Within the College of Liberal Arts, six months after graduating, 68% of Longhorns are employed and 24% have entered graduate school. The for-profit sector attracts 65% of those employed while 19% enter public sector employment and 16% pursue jobs at a nonprofit. Major corporations that employ more than 500 UT Austin grads include Google, Meta, Oracle, Microsoft, IBM, and Apple. Engineering majors took home a median income of $79k and business majors took home $70k.

• Enrollment: 41,309 (undergraduate); 11,075 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $30,752-$34,174 (in-state); $61,180-$69,310 (out-of-state)
• Acceptance Rate: 31%

University of Rochester

• Rochester, NY

Academic Highlights: U of R’s 160 undergraduate programs offer a rigorous yet flexible educational experience at a small liberal arts college within a renowned research institution. 66% of sections enroll fewer than 20 students, and an impressive 77% of students are involved in undergraduate research. The Eastman School of Music is one of the best music conservatories in the United States, and the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences is a top 50 institution. Other strong majors include mathematics, economics, and political science.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after receiving their diplomas, 97% of Class of 2022 grads had achieved positive outcomes with 57% employed and a notably high 38% already pursuing an advanced degree. Popular industries included internet and software (14%), healthcare (14%), and investment banking (6%). Top employers of 2022 grads included Google, Goldman Sachs, Epic Systems, and Deloitte. The average starting salary for the most recent cohort of grads was an impressive $82,325; that figure was over $105k for graduates of the Hajim School of Engineering.

• Enrollment: 6,767 (undergraduate); 5,430 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $85,858
• Median SAT: 1460
• Acceptance Rate: 39%

Carleton College

• Northfield, MN

Academic Highlights: Students work closely with their professors, and the college is routinely rated atop lists of best undergraduate teaching institutions. Small classes are the norm with the average being only sixteen students. It offers 33 majors, the most popular of which are within the disciplines of the social sciences (19%), the physical sciences (14%), biology (11%), computer science (11%), mathematics (10%), and psychology (8%).

Professional Outcomes: Target, Epic Systems, Google, Wells Fargo, and Amazon all employ large numbers of graduates. Carleton is a breeding ground for future scholars as a ridiculously high number of graduates go on to earn PhDs. In fact, by percentage, Carleton is one of the top five producers in the country of future PhDs. They produce an incredible number of doctoral degree holders in the areas of economics, math, political science, sociology, chemistry, physics, biology, and history.

• Enrollment: 2,034
• Cost of Attendance: $82,167

Emory University

• Atlanta, GA

Academic Highlights: This midsize university offers a diverse array of majors (80+) and minors (60+), and 30% of Emory students pursue more than one area of study. Over half of Emory’s student body works directly with a faculty member on academic research and 58% of courses have class sizes of under twenty students. Ultimately, the greatest number of students go on to earn degrees in the social sciences (15%), biology (14%), business (14%), health professions (12%), and mathematics (9%).

Professional Outcomes: Shortly after graduation, 66% of 2022 grads were already employed, and 96% had arrived at their next destination. The top employers of recent Emory grads include Deloitte, Epic, ScribeAmerica, Meta, Morgan Stanley, and Cloudmed. Graduates of the Goizueta Business School found strong starting salaries with an average of $81k.  In the last few years, multiple Emory grads/alums received acceptance letters from the following top law schools like Columbia, Berkeley, and Georgetown. Med school acceptances included Duke, Johns Hopkins, and Vanderbilt.

• Enrollment: 7,101
• Cost of Attendance: $83,702

University of Minnesota–Twin Cities

• Minneapolis, MN

Academic Highlights: There are 150 majors available across eight freshman-admitting undergraduate colleges. 65% of class sections enroll 29 or fewer students. The most commonly conferred degrees are in biology (13%), business & marketing (11%), engineering (10%), the social sciences (10%), computer science (9%), and psychology (8%). The College of Science and Engineering and the Carlson School of Management have strong national reputations, and the chemistry, economics, psychology, and political science departments are also well-regarded.

Professional Outcomes: The top seven companies snatching up the largest number of recent grads are all companies headquartered in the state of Minnesota: Medtronic, Target, 3M, United Health Group, US Bank, and Cargill. Google, Apple, and Meta all employ hundreds of Twin Cities alumni. The mean starting salary for recent grads was $50k. With 130 graduate programs in science, art, engineering, agriculture, medicine, and the humanities, the University of Minnesota retains many of its graduates as they pursue their next degrees.

• Enrollment: 39,248 (undergraduate); 15,707 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $33,032-$35,632 (in-state); $54,446-$57,046
• Median SAT: 1370
• Median ACT: 29
• Acceptance Rate: 75%
• Retention Rate: 90%
• Graduation Rate: 84%

Cornell University

Academic Highlights: A diverse array of academic programs includes 80 majors and 120 minors spread across the university’s seven schools/colleges. Classes are a bit larger at Cornell than at many other elite institutions. Still, 55% of sections have fewer than 20 students. Most degrees conferred in 2022 were in computer science (17%), engineering (13%), business (13%), and biology (13%). The SC Johnson College of Business houses two undergraduate schools, both of which have phenomenal reputations.

Professional Outcomes: Breaking down the graduates of the College of Arts and Sciences, the largest school at Cornell, 68% entered the workforce, 28% entered graduate school, 1% pursued other endeavors such as travel or volunteer work, and the remaining 3% were still seeking employment six months after receiving their diplomas. The top sectors attracting campus-wide graduateswere financial services (18%), technology (17%), consulting (15%), and education (10%). Of the students from A&S going on to graduate school, 15% were pursuing JDs, 5% MDs, and 22% PhDs.

• Enrollment: 15,735
• Cost of Attendance: $88,150

Haverford College

• Haverford, PA

Academic Highlights: Haverford offers 31 majors, 32 minors, 12 concentrations, and eleven consortium programs—areas of study that can be pursued at partner campuses. The school’s 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio and exclusive emphasis on undergraduate education lead to exceptionally intimate classes, 33% of which have fewer than 10 students, and 72% have fewer than 20. The most popular areas of study at Haverford include the social sciences (24%), biology (14%), psychology (11%), physical sciences (10%), computer science (9%), and mathematics (7%).

Professional Outcomes: Six months after leaving Haverford, 63% of the Class of 2022 had found employment, 19% had enrolled in graduate school, and 9% were still job hunting. Employers hiring multiple recent Haverford grads include Epic, JP Morgan Chase Bank, Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs, the National Institutes of Health, and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Of the 19% of 2022 grads who elected to continue their education, the most commonly entered fields of study were STEM (51%) and medicine/health (15%).

• Enrollment: 1,421
• Cost of Attendance: $87,180

Smith College

• Northampton, MA

Academic Highlights: Smith has 50 academic departments and programs. The social sciences are most popular, accounting for 21% of the degrees conferred, with programs in economics and government carrying very strong reputations. Next in line are biology (6%), computer science (5%), English (5%), data science (5%), and engineering science (5%); more than two-fifths of current students are majoring in a STEM field. 19% of undergraduate sections have single-digit enrollments, and 69% of total class sections enroll fewer than 20 students.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduating, 97% of alumnae had found employment. More than 25 alumnae can be found at the US Department of State, Google, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, Accenture, Fidelity Investments, Deloitte, Microsoft, JPMorgan Chase, and Amazon. Within two years of graduating, 40% of alumni had already entered a graduate program, and within ten years, 70% had earned or were working toward an advanced degree. Many Smith women rise to high ranks —twenty years after graduation, 18% of alumnae report holding a chief executive or other executive-level position.

• Enrollment: 2,523 (undergraduate); 350 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $88,980
• Acceptance Rate: 23%
• Retention Rate: 91%

Yale University

• New Haven, CT

Academic Highlights: Yale offers 80 majors, most of which require a one- to two-semester senior capstone experience. Undergraduate research is a staple, and over 70% of classes—of which there are over 2,000 to choose from—have an enrollment of fewer than 20 students, making Yale a perfect environment for teaching and learning. Among the top departments are biology, economics, global affairs, engineering, history, and computer science. The social sciences (26%), biology (11%), mathematics (8%), and computer science (8%) are the most popular areas of concentration.

Professional Outcomes: Shortly after graduating, 73% of the Yale Class of 2022 had entered the world of employment and 18% matriculated into graduate programs. Hundreds of Yale alums can be found at each of the world’s top companies including Google, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey & Company, Morgan Stanley, and Microsoft. The most common industries entered by the newly hired were finance (20%), research/education (16%), technology (14%), and consulting (12%). The mean starting salary for last year’s grads was $81,769 ($120k for CS majors). Nearly one-fifth of students immediately pursue graduate school.

• Enrollment: 6,590 (undergraduate); 5,344 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $87,705

Pomona College

Academic Highlights: There are 48 majors and minors to select from with the most popular being social sciences (23%), biology (13%), and computer science (12%). Majors in economics, international relations, chemistry, and mathematics receive especially high marks. More than 600 courses are on the menu at Pomona alone, but students can access any of the Claremont Consortium’s 2,700 courses. Pomona’s 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio leads to an average class size of only 15 students, and over 50% of the undergraduate population conduct research alongside a faculty member.

Professional Outcomes: 71% of the Class of 2022 were employed within six months of graduating. Overall, the largest number of alumni can be found at Google, Kaiser Permanente, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta. Recently, economics degree-earners have landed jobs at Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo, Morgan Stanley, or Accenture. Majors in the hard sciences frequently landed at top research laboratories and hospitals. Of the 21% of 2022 grads who were accepted directly into graduate school, the most frequently attended institutions included the University of Cambridge, Duke, Harvard, Caltech, UChicago, and Stanford.

• Enrollment: 1,761
• Cost of Attendance: $88,296

Colby College

• Waterville, ME

Academic Highlights: Offering 56 majors and 35 minors, Colby provides a classic liberal arts education with a high degree of flexibility and room for independent intellectual pursuits. A 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio is put to good instructional use as roughly two-thirds of courses have fewer than 19 students. Being a true liberal arts school, Colby has strengths across many disciplines, but biology, economics, and global studies draw especially high praise. These programs along with government and environmental science attract the highest number of students.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduation, 93% of the Class of 2022 had either obtained jobs or were enrolled full-time in a graduate program. Eighteen percent of graduates enter the financial industry and large numbers also start careers in education, with government/nonprofit, STEM, and healthcare next in popularity. The Medical school acceptance rate over the past five years is 68%, nearly double the national average.

• Enrollment: 2,299
• Cost of Attendance: $86,720
• Average SAT: 1485
• Average ACT: 33
• Graduation Rate: 87%

College of William & Mary

• Williamsburg, VA

Academic Highlights: Forty undergraduate programs are available and William & Mary has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Class sizes are rarely tiny seminars, but 44% do enroll fewer than twenty students, and only 9% contain more than fifty. Among the college’s most notable academic programs are (1) government and (2) international relations, both of which serve as pipelines to Washington, DC, employers. The Mason School of Business is highly regarded in the corporate world. The social sciences (20%) and biology (11%) are also popular.

Professional Outcomes: 52% of the most cohort joined the workforce, and 36% entered graduate school within six months of graduation. Over 500 employers snatched up at least one member of the Tribe. Companies hiring at least four 2020 grads included Accenture, Booz Allen Hamilton, KPMG, and Deloitte. Many of those opting for immediate entry into graduate school stayed at their alma mater and the next most frequented universities included Columbia, Duke, Harvard, Northwestern, and the University of Chicago.

• Enrollment: 6,797
• Cost of Attendance: $39,595 (In-State); $63,967 (Out-of-State)
• Acceptance Rate: 33%

Tufts University

• Medford, MA

Academic Highlights: Three schools serve Tufts’ undergraduate population: the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. The three schools combined offer more than 90 majors and minors; approximately one-third of all students double major, and half declare a minor. 15% of all courses see fewer than ten students enrolled, and 60% have sub-twenty enrollments. The most popular majors include international relations, economics, computer science, political science, and biology—all of which receive very high marks.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after earning their diplomas, 97% of 2022 graduates were employed or attending graduate school. The most commonly entered fields were finance, consulting, real estate (23%); engineering and technology (22%); health, life sciences, environmental (21%); and education, advocacy, social services (11%). Prolific employers of Tufts alums include Booz Allen Hamilton, JPMorgan, MITRE, Google, Deloitte, Amazon, Raytheon, Morgan Stanley, and BlackRock. Of the 21% of 2022 grads who went directly to graduate school, 85% were accepted into their first-choice institution.

• Enrollment: 6,815 (undergraduate); 6,616 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $88,300

Northwestern University

• Evanston, IL

Academic Highlights : Northwestern is home to six undergraduate schools, including Medill, which is widely regarded as one of the country’s best journalism schools. The McCormick School of Engineering also achieves top rankings, along with programs in economics, social policy, and theatre. The social sciences account for the greatest number of degrees conferred (19%), followed by communications/journalism (13%), and engineering (11%). 45% of classes have nine or fewer students enrolled; 78% have fewer than twenty enrollees. 57% of recent grads had the chance to conduct undergraduate research.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduating, 69% of the Class of 2022 had found employment and 27% were in graduate school. The four most popular professional fields were consulting (18%), engineering (18%), business/finance (16%), and communications/marketing/media (13%). Employers included the BBC, NBC News, The Washington Post , NPR, Boeing, Google, IBM, Deloitte, PepsiCo, Northrop Grumman, and Goldman Sachs. Across all majors, the average starting salary was $73k. Of those headed straight to graduate school, engineering, medicine, and business were the three most popular areas of concentration.

• Enrollment: 8,659 (undergraduate); 14,073 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $91,290

Brandeis University

• Waltham, MA

Academic Highlights: Brandeis offers 43 majors, the most popular of which are in the social sciences (18%), biology (17%), business (10%), psychology (8%), public administration (8%), and computer science (7%). The student-faculty ratio is 11:1, and 60% of courses contain nineteen or fewer students. Departments with a particularly strong national reputation include economics, international studies, and sociology as well as all of the traditional premed pathways including biology, and chemistry.

Professional Outcomes: Within six months of graduation, 98% of the Class of 2022 had found their way to employment (59%), graduate school (35%), or another full-time activity like travel or volunteer work (4%). Members of the Class of 2022 were hired by Red Hat, Deloitte, Nasdaq, NPR, and McKinsey & Company. The average starting salary for recent grads is $61k. A large contingent of grads elects to continue at Brandeis for graduate school. Many others go to BU, Columbia, Duke, Harvard, and Yale.

• Enrollment: 3,687
• Cost of Attendance: $86,242

Brown University

• Providence, RI

Academic Highlights: Students must choose one of 80+ “concentration programs,” but there are no required courses. Class sizes tend to be small—68% have fewer than twenty students—and 35% are comprised of nine or fewer students. Biology, economics, computer science, mathematics, and engineering are among the most popular areas of concentration at Brown; however, it is hard to distinguish any one program, because Brown possesses outstanding offerings across so many disciplines.

Professional Outcomes: Soon after receiving their Brown diplomas, 69% of graduates enter the world of employment. Companies employing the greatest number of Brown alums include Google, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Morgan Stanley, Apple, McKinsey & Company, and Bain & Company. The Class of 2022 saw 27% of graduates go directly into graduate/professional school. Right out of undergrad, Brown students boasted an exceptional 81% admission rate to med school and an 81% admission rate to law school.

• Enrollment: 7,639
• Cost of Attendance: $84,828

Vassar College

• Poughkeepsie, NY

Academic Highlights: Vassar students have the choice of 50 majors and only three foundational curricular mandates, which means that there is plenty of room to explore electives and intellectual passions. A 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio leads to an average class size of 17 students, and 23% of all sections have an enrollment of nine or fewer. Professors are extremely available outside the classroom. The most popular majors are in the social sciences, biology, the visual and performing arts, foreign languages, and psychology.

Professional Outcomes: 93% of alums enjoy positive outcomes within six months of graduation, with 20% enrolling directly in a graduate or professional degree program. A solid number land at competitive companies like Google, Meta, EY, Deloitte, Microsoft, Citi, and Amazon. Elite universities such as Harvard, Penn, NYU, and Columbia are also among the top employers of former students, many of whom earn advanced degrees and enter academia. The school is one of the top 15 PhD producers.

• Enrollment: 2,459
• Cost of Attendance: $85,220
• Median SAT: 1480
• Acceptance Rate: 19%

University of Southern California

• Los Angeles, CA

Academic Highlights : There are 140 undergraduate majors and minors within the Dornsife College of Arts & Sciences alone, the university’s oldest and largest school. The Marshall School of Business, Viterbi School of Engineering, and programs in communication, the cinematic arts, and the performing arts are highly acclaimed. Popular areas of study are business (22%), social sciences (11%), visual and performing arts (11%), communications/journalism (9%), and engineering (8%). Most courses enroll 10-19 students, and USC does an excellent job facilitating undergraduate research opportunities.

Professional Outcomes: 96% of undergrads experience positive postgraduation outcomes within six months of earning their degree. The top five industries entered were finance, consulting, advertising, software development, and engineering; the median salary across all majors is an astounding $79k. Presently, between 300 and 1,500 alumni are employed at each of Google, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, KPMG, Goldman Sachs, and Meta. Graduate/professional schools enrolling the greatest number of 2022 USC grads include NYU, Georgetown, Harvard, Stanford, Pepperdine, and UCLA.

• Enrollment: 20,699 (undergraduate); 28,246 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $90,921
• Median SAT: 1510
• Acceptance Rate: 12%

Skidmore College

• Saratoga Springs, NY

Academic Highlights: An undergraduate-only institution, there are 40+ majors to choose from with the most popular being business, English, psychology, political science, economics, studio art, theater, biology, and environmental studies. Known for its superior undergraduate teaching, Skidmore’s average class size is only 16 students, and 98% of sections have fewer than thirty students. The most degrees are conferred in the social sciences (17%), business (14%), visual and performing arts (13%), and biology (12%).

Professional Outcomes: 65% of 2022 grads were employed within six months of completing their degrees and 26% were enrolled in graduate school. The most frequently entered industries were STEM (20%), business (17%), education (16%), health science (9%), and finance (7%). The median starting salary range for Class of 2022 grads was $40,000-$49,000. Fairly large numbers of Skiddies can be found at major corporations including Google, Morgan Stanley, EY, Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity Investments, and IBM.

• Enrollment: 2,776
• Cost of Attendance: $85,240
• Median SAT: 1380
• Retention Rate: 89%
• Graduation Rate: 82%

Rice University

• Houston, TX

Academic Highlights : Rice offers more than 50 majors across six broad disciplines: engineering, architecture, music, social science, humanities, and natural science. Programs in biology, biochemistry, cognitive science, and music are incredibly strong, while the School of Architecture and the George R. Brown School of Engineering are among the highest-ranking schools in their disciplines. One-third of computer science majors are female, almost twice the national average. Class sizes are ideally small with 66% containing fewer than 20 students and a median class size of only fourteen.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduation, 88% of Rice grads have found careers or a graduate school home. Companies that employ many recent grads include Deloitte, Capital One, JP Morgan Chase, Google, and Microsoft. Over one hundred alumni are also current employees of companies such as Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Amazon, Accenture, and Meta. Across all majors, the average starting salary is $73k. One-third of graduates move directly into graduate or professional school, with Harvard, Yale, Stanford, MIT, Columbia, and Berkeley being the most popular destinations.

• Enrollment: 4,494 (undergraduate); 4,178 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $78,278
• Median SAT: 35

Bucknell University

• Lewisburg, PA

Academic Highlights: Over 60 majors and 70 minors are on tap across three undergraduate schools: the College of Arts & Sciences, Freeman College of Management, and the College of Engineering. Getting well-acquainted with your professors is easy with a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, and class sizes are reasonably small. The greatest number of degrees are conferred in the areas of the social sciences (26%), engineering (14%), business (14%), biology (11%), and psychology (9%).

Professional Outcomes: Nine months after graduation, 94% of the Class of 2022 had launched their careers or entered graduate school. Financial services is the most common sector for Bucknell grads to enter, attracting 24% of alumni. Across all disciplines, the average salary for a Class of 2022 grad was $69,540. Bucknell saw 18% of 2022 grads go directly into an advanced degree program. Bison alumni heading to graduate school predominantly pursue degrees in the medical field, social sciences, business, or engineering.

• Enrollment: 3,747
• Cost of Attendance: $80,890

Connecticut College

• New London, CT

Academic Highlights: In typical liberal arts fashion, students are required to complete one course in every major discipline and over one-quarter of undergrads complete a double major. The student-faculty ratio is an inviting 10:1, and 69% of classes contain fewer than 20 students; 19% contain fewer than ten. In terms of the most frequently conferred degrees, the social sciences at large lead the way (30%), followed by biology (17%), visual and performing arts (9%), psychology (8%), and computer science (5%).

Professional Outcomes: One year after graduating, 95% of alumni are employed or in graduate school. A solid 20% of recent grads entered the finance industry, but a large swath also veered toward education (17%); art, design, and entertainment (11%); and health care (11%). Conn College students are known for being grad school ready as a surprising (given the small size of the school) 27 alumni earn their doctoral degrees each year and it is common for multiple students to land at prestigious schools such as NYU, Columbia, and Yale.

• Enrollment: 1,948
• Cost of Attendance: $82,697
• Median SAT: 1300
• Acceptance Rate: 40%
• Retention Rate: 87%

Grinnell College

• Grinnell, IA

Academic Highlights: Grinnell offers 42 areas of study and over 500 courses each semester. Thanks to a 9:1 student/faculty ratio and no competition from graduate students, 64% of classes have fewer than twenty students, and roughly one-quarter of sections have single-digit student enrollments. A top producer of PhDs in both the sciences and the social sciences, Grinnell has strong offerings in biology, chemistry, physics, economics, and history. The largest number of degrees are conferred in the social sciences, foreign languages, biology, and computer science.

Professional Outcomes: Upon graduation, 62% of Grinnell students head into the workforce, 26% to graduate school, 2% to postgraduate service, and 2% earned fellowships. Multiple recent grads accepted positions with JPMorgan, Epic, and Google. The mean salary of those employed was roughly $64,397. Close to 40% of those entering graduate school pursue PhDs or master’s degrees in the hard sciences, 8% head to law school, and 3% were bound for medical school; 88% of all applicants were accepted into their first or second choice program.

• Enrollment: 1,759
• Cost of Attendance: $82,890

Vanderbilt University

• Nashville, TN

Academic Highlights: Four of Vandy’s ten schools cater to undergrads: the College of Arts and Sciences, the Blair School of Music, the Peabody College of Education and Human Development, and the School of Engineering. In the 2022-23 school year, 87% of course sections contained 19 or fewer students. Of the 70 undergraduate majors, economics, politics and government, and neuroscience are the most popular. The School of Engineering has a strong national reputation as do offerings in biology, economics, education, and music.

Professional Outcomes: Six months after graduating, 96% of the Class of 2021 were employed or in graduate school. The most commonly entered industry was finance followed by technology, consulting, education, and engineering. Alumni can be found in droves at Capital One, Goldman Sachs, Bain & Company, JP Morgan Chase, Citi, and Meta. Among 2022 alumni who directly pursued advanced degrees, the majority enrolled at Vanderbilt followed by Columbia, Harvard, Penn, NYU, and Northwestern.

• Enrollment: 7,151 (undergraduate); 6,559 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $89,590

Binghamton University

• Binghamton, NY

Academic Highlights: The student-to-faculty ratio is on the high side at 19:1, but class sizes are reasonably small with 48% of sections containing fewer than twenty students. In the spring of 2022, Binghamton awarded the greatest number of degrees in business (17%), biology (15%), the social sciences, (11%), engineering (11%), and health professions (7%). The School of Management is renowned for its accounting program and is well-known by NYC-based companies. Programs in chemistry, psychology, and nursing are also well respected.

Professional Outcomes: The Class of 2022 saw 50% of job-seeking graduates land their first professional job and 49% enter grad school within six months of commencement. The average starting salary procured was $72,438, well above the national average for college grads. Graduates were successful in finding employment at firms like Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup. Of the Binghamton grads seeking to transition directly into graduate studies, 91% were already enrolled in a program six months after graduation.

• Enrollment: 14,402
• Cost of Attendance: $30,577 (in-state); $48,617 (out-of-state)
• Median ACT: 31
• Acceptance Rate: 42%

University of Colorado Boulder

• Boulder, CO

Academic Highlights: CU Boulder offers 90 bachelor’s degree programs across seven different schools and colleges; the College of Engineering & Applied Science and the Leeds School of Business both possess excellent national reputations. Business/marketing is the discipline where the greatest number of degrees (15%) were conferred in 2022. Engineering (13%), biology (12%), social sciences (12%), and journalism (10%) are next in popularity. 41% of classes have fewer than 20 students, and only 19% of courses enroll 50 or more students.

Professional Outcomes : Within six months of leaving CU Boulder, 91% of recent grads were working or in graduate school. Those employed earned an estimated median salary of $54k, with the greatest number working at Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, Deloitte, Qualcomm, Northrop Grumman, KPMG, Charles Schwab, and Boeing. More than 100 alumni can also be found at Google, Oracle, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. 20% of new grads immediately jumped into an advanced degree program, and 80% were accepted into their first-choice school.

• Enrollment: 31,103 (undergraduate); 7,110 (graduate)
• Cost of Attendance: $31,744 (in-state); $60,118 (out-of-state)
• Median SAT: 1280
• Retention Rate: 88%
• Graduation Rate: 75%

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Cybersecurity Guide

From scholar to expert: Cybersecurity PhD options

In this guide

• Industry demand
• 2024 rankings
• Preparation
• Considerations
• School listings

The cybersecurity landscape is not just growing—it’s evolving at a breakneck pace. And what better way to stay ahead of the curve than by pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity?

This advanced degree is no longer confined to the realm of computer science. Today, it branches into diverse fields like law, policy, management, and strategy, reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern cyber threats.

If you’re looking to become a thought leader in this dynamic industry, a PhD in cybersecurity offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your expertise and broaden your horizons.

This guide is designed to give prospective cybersecurity PhD students a general overview of available cybersecurity PhD programs. It will also outline some of the factors to consider when trying to find the right PhD program fit, such as course requirements and tuition costs. 

Industry demand for PhDs in cybersecurity

Like other cutting-edge technology fields, until recently, cybersecurity PhD programs were often training grounds for niche positions and specialized research, often for government agencies (like the CIA, NSA, and FBI),  or closely adjacent research organizations or institutions. 

Today, however, as the cybersecurity field grows to become more pervasive and consumer-oriented, there are opportunities for cybersecurity PhDs to work at public-facing companies like startups and name-brand financial, software, infrastructure, and digital service firms.

One trend that is emerging in the cybersecurity field is that cybersecurity experts need to be well-versed in a variety of growing threats. If recent headlines about cybersecurity breaches are any indication, there are a number of new attack vectors and opportunities for cybercrime and related issues. Historically, committing cybercrime took resources and a level of sophistication that required specialized training or skill.

But now, because of the pervasiveness of the internet, committing cybercrime is becoming more commonplace. So training in a cybersecurity PhD program allows students to become an experts in one part of a growing and multi-layered field.

In fact, this trend of needing well-trained, but adaptable cybersecurity professionals is reflected by the move by cybersecurity graduate schools to offer specialized master’s degrees , and many companies and professional organizations offer certifications in cybersecurity that focus on particular issues related to cybersecurity technology, cybersecurity law , digital forensics , policy, or related topics.

That said, traditional research-oriented cybersecurity positions continue to be in demand in academia and elsewhere — a trend that will likely continue. 

One interesting facet of the cybersecurity field is trying to predict what future cybersecurity threats might look like and then develop tools and systems to protect against those threats.

As new technologies and services are developed and as more of the global population begins using Internet services for everything from healthcare to banking — new ways of protecting those services will be required. Often, it’s up to academic researchers to think ahead and examine various threats and opportunities to insulate against those threats.

Another key trend coming out of academic circles is that cybersecurity students are becoming increasingly multidisciplinary.

As cybersecurity hacks impact more parts of people’s everyday lives, so too do the academic programs that are designed to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This emerging trend creates an enormous amount of opportunity for students who have a variety of interests and who are looking to create a non-traditional career path.

The best cybersecurity PhD programs for 2024

Capella university, georgia institute of technology, northeastern university, marymount university, school of technology and innovation, nova southeastern university, college of computing & engineering, purdue university, stevens institute of technology, worcester polytechnic institute, university of illinois at urbana-champaign, mississippi state university, new york institute of technology.

These rankings were compiled from data accessed in November 2023 from the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Navigator (both services National Center for Education Statistics). Tuition data was pulled from individual university websites and is current as of November 2023.

What is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity?

Good news first: Obtaining a PhD in a field related to cybersecurity will likely create tremendous employment opportunities and lead to interesting and dynamic career options.

Bad news: Getting a PhD requires a lot of investment of time and energy, and comes with a big opportunity cost (meaning you have to invest four to five years, or longer, or pursue other opportunities to obtain a doctoral degree. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of what is required to get a PhD in cybersecurity. Of course, specific degree requirements will vary by program. One growing trend in the field is that students can now obtain degrees in a variety of formats, including traditional on-campus programs, online degree programs , and hybrid graduate degree programs that combine both on-campus learning with online learning. 

Related resources

• Online PhD in cybersecurity – A guide to finding the right program
• Cybersecurity degree programs
• Podcast episodes and expert interviews

Preparing for a cybersecurity doctorate program

Cybersecurity is a relatively new formalized technology field, nonetheless, there are several ways that students or prospective PhD candidates can get involved or explore the field before and during a graduate school program. A few examples of ways to start networking and finding opportunities include: 

Join cybersecurity organizations with professional networks

Specialized professional organizations are a good place to find the latest in career advice and guidance. Often they publish newsletters or other kinds of information that provide insights into the emerging trends and issues facing cybersecurity professionals. A couple of examples include:

The Center for Internet Security  (CIS) is a non-profit dedicated to training cybersecurity professionals and fostering a sense of collaboration. The organization also publishes information and analysis of the latest cybersecurity threats and issues facing the professional community.

The SANS Institute runs several different kinds of courses for students (including certification programs) as well as ongoing professional cybersecurity education and training for people working in the field. The organization has several options including webinars, online training, and live in-person seminars. Additionally, SANS also publishes newsletters and maintains forums for cybersecurity professionals to interact and share information.

Leverage your social network

Places like LinkedIn and Twitter are good places to start to find news and information about what is happening in the field, who the main leaders and influencers are, and what kinds of jobs and opportunities are available.

Starting a professional network early is also a great opportunity. Often professionals and members of the industry are willing to provide guidance and help to students who are genuinely interested in the field and looking for career opportunities. 

Cybersecurity competitions 

Cybersecurity competitions are a great way to get hands-on experience working on real cybersecurity problems and issues. As a PhD student or prospective student, cybersecurity competitions that are sponsored by industry groups are a great way to meet other cybersecurity professionals while getting working on projects that will help flesh out a resume or become talking points in later job interviews.

The US Cyber Challenge , for example, is a series of competitions and hackathon-style events hosted by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate and the Center for Internet Security to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Internships

Internships also continue to be a tried and true way to gain professional experience. Internships in technical fields like cybersecurity can also pay well. Like the industry itself, cybersecurity internships are available across a wide range of industries and can range from academic research-oriented to more corporate kinds of work. 

Things to consider when choosing a cybersecurity PhD program

There are many considerations to evaluate when considering any kind of graduate degree, but proper planning is essential to be able to obtain a doctoral degree. It’s also important to note that these are just guidelines and that each graduate program will have specific requirements, so be sure to double-check.

What you will need before applying to a cybersecurity PhD program:

• All undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• A statement of intent, which is like a cover letter outlining interest
• Letters of reference
• Application fee
• Online application
• A resume or CV outlining professional and academic accomplishments

What does a cybersecurity PhD program cost?

Obtaining a PhD is a massive investment, both in terms of time and money. Cybersecurity PhD students are weighing the cost of becoming an expert in the field with the payoff of having interesting and potentially lucrative career opportunities on the other side.

Degree requirements are usually satisfied in 60-75 hours, so the cost of a doctoral degree can be well into the six-figure range. Here’s a more specific breakdown:

Tuition rates

The Cybersecurity Guide research team looked at 26 programs that offer a cybersecurity-related PhD degree. Here’s a breakdown of tuition rates (all figures are based on out-of-state tuition).

$17,580 is the most affordable PhD program option and it is available at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

$86,833 is the average cost of a cybersecurity PhD and is based on tuition rates from all 26 schools.

$197,820 is the most expensive cybersecurity PhD program and is available at Indiana University Bloomington.

The good news is that by the time students get to the PhD level there are a lot of funding options — including some graduate programs that are completely funded by the university or academic departments themselves.

Additionally, funding in the form of research grants and other kinds of scholarships is available for students interested in pursuing cybersecurity studies. 

One example is the CyberCorps: Scholarships for Service program. Administered by the National Science Foundation, PhD students studying cybersecurity are eligible for a $34,000 a year scholarship, along with a professional stipend of $6,000 to attend conferences in exchange for agreeing to work for a government agency in the cybersecurity space after the PhD program. 

Frequently asked questions about cybersecurity PhD programs

Most traditional and online cybersecurity graduate programs require a minimum number of credits that need to be completed to obtain a degree. On average, it takes 71 credits to graduate with a PhD in cybersecurity — far longer (almost double) than traditional master’s degree programs. In addition to coursework, most PhD students also have research and teaching responsibilities that can be simultaneously demanding and great career preparation.

At the core of a cybersecurity doctoral program is a data science doctoral program, you’ll be expected to learn many skills and also how to apply them across domains and disciplines. Core curriculums will vary from program to program, but almost all will have a core foundation of statistics.  

All PhD candidates will have to take a series of exams that act as checkpoints during the lengthy PhD process. The actual exam process and timing can vary depending on the university and the program, but the basic idea is that cybersecurity PhD candidates generally have to sit for a qualifying exam, which comes earlier in the program (usually the winter or spring of the second year of study), a preliminary exam, which a candidate takes to show they are ready to start the dissertation or research portion of the PhD program, and a final exam where PhD students present and defend their research and complete their degree requirements. 

A cybersecurity PhD dissertation is the capstone of a doctoral program. The dissertation is the name of a formal paper that presents the findings of original research that the PhD candidate conducted during the program under the guidance of faculty advisors. Some example cybersecurity research topics that could potentially be turned into dissertation ideas include: * Policies and best practices around passwords * Ways to defend against the rise of bots * Policies around encryption and privacy * Corporate responsibility for employee security * Internet advertising targeting and privacy * The new frontier of social engineering attacks * Operation security (OpSec) strategy and policy * Network infrastructure and defense * Cybersecurity law and policy * The vulnerabilities of biometrics * The role of ethical hacking * Cybersecurity forensics and enforcement

A complete listing of cybersecurity PhD programs

The following is a list of cybersecurity PhD programs. The listing is intended to work as a high-level index that provides enough basic information to make quick side-by-side comparisons easy. 

You should find basic data about what each school requires (such as a GRE score or prior academic work) as well as the number of credits required, estimated costs, and a link to the program.

Arizona State University

• Aim: Equip students with in-depth expertise in cybersecurity.
• Study Modules: Delve into advanced computer science subjects and specific cybersecurity courses.
• Research Component: Students undertake groundbreaking research in the cybersecurity domain.

Carnegie Mellon University

• CNBC Collaboration: A joint effort between Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh to train students in understanding the brain's role in cognition.
• Training Program: Students take four main neuroscience courses and participate in seminars and ethics training.
• Course Integration: Whether students have a B.S. or M.S. degree, they can combine the CNBC and ECE Ph.D. courses without extra workload.

Colorado School of Mines

• Research Focus: Cybersecurity: Studying online security and privacy.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Provides details on program costs and available financial support.
• Current Mines Community: Offers specific information for those already affiliated with Mines.

Indiana University Bloomington

• Focus Areas: Options include Animal Informatics, Bioinformatics, Computer Design, and more.
• Information Sessions: The university holds events to guide potential students about admissions and study options.
• Minor Requirement: All Ph.D. students must complete a minor, which can be from within the Luddy School of Informatics or from another approved school at IU Bloomington.

Iowa State University

• Details: The program is open to both domestic and international students.
• Time to Complete: Ph.D.: About 5.2 years
• Goals: Students should gain deep knowledge, follow ethics, share their findings, and do advanced research if they're writing a thesis.
• Learning Goals: Master core areas of Computer Science, achieve in-depth knowledge in a chosen subfield, obtain expertise to perform original research, and demonstrate the ability to communicate technical concepts and research results.
• Duration: Median time to earn the doctorate is 5.8 years.
• Application Information: The program is open to both domestic and international students.
• Program's Aim: The Ph.D. program is tailored to produce scholars proficient in leading research initiatives, undertaking rigorous industrial research, or imparting high-level computer science education.
• Entry Routes: The program welcomes both students holding a B.S. degree for direct admission and those with an M.S. degree.
• Dissertation's Role: It stands as the pivotal component of the Ph.D. journey. Collaboration between the student, their dissertation director, and the guiding committee is essential.

Naval Postgraduate School

• Program Essence: The Computer Science Ph.D. is a top-tier academic program in the U.S.
• Admission Criteria: Open to military officers from the U.S. and abroad, U.S. governmental employees, and staff of foreign governments.
• Curriculum: Designed to deepen knowledge in computing, with a focus on the needs of the U.S. Department of Defense.
• Emphasis on Research: The college showcases its strength in research through sections dedicated to Research Areas, affiliated Institutes & Centers, ongoing Research Projects, and specialized Labs & Groups.
• Holistic Student Growth: The college promotes a comprehensive student experience, spotlighting Clubs & Organizations, campus Facilities, and tech Systems.
• Guidance for Future Students: Provides tailored insights for students considering joining at various academic levels, from Undergraduate to PhD.
• Broad Learning: The program covers many areas, from software and policy to psychology and ethics, reflecting the wide scope of cybersecurity.
• Course Design: Students learn foundational security topics first and then dive into specialized areas, like cyber forensics.
• Successful Alumni: Past students now work in places like NASA, Amazon, and Google.
• Feature: Students can apply to up to three different campuses and/or majors using a single application and fee payment.
• Preparing for a Globalized World: Courses such as Global Supply Chain Management equip students for international careers.
• Tech-Forward Curriculum: Purdue's commitment to advanced technology is evident.

Rochester Institute of Technology

• Cyberinfrastructure Focus: The program dives deep into how hardware, data, and networks work together to create secure and efficient digital tools.
• Broad Applications: The program uses computing to solve problems in fields like science, arts, and business.
• Success Rate: All RIT graduates from this program have found relevant roles, especially in the Internet and Software sectors.

Sam Houston State University

• Program's Objective: The course aims to nurture students to be technically adept and also to take on leadership roles in the digital and cyber forensic domain across various industries.
• Assessments: Students undergo comprehensive tests to evaluate their understanding.
• Research Paper (Dissertation): Once students reach the doctoral candidacy phase, they must produce and defend a significant research paper or dissertation.
• Funding: All Ph.D. students get financial help, so they can start their research right away.
• Teachers: The program has top experts, including those who've made big discoveries in computer science.
• Research Areas: Students can study the latest topics like AI, computer vision, and online security.

The University of Tennessee

• Study Areas: Options include Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Computer Vision, and more.
• Tests: You'll have to pass a few exams, including one when you start, one before your final project, and then present your final project.
• Courses: Some specific courses are needed, and your main professor will help decide which ones.
• Big Exam: Before moving forward, you'll take a detailed exam about your research topic.
• Final Step: You'll present and defend your research project to experts.
• Overview: This program is for those with a degree in Computer Science or similar fields. It has special focus areas like Cybersecurity and Machine Learning.

University of Arizona

• Study Plan: Students start with learning research basics and then dive into modern tech topics.
• Support for Students: All PhD students get funding that covers their studies, a stipend, and health insurance. Money for travel to conferences is also available.
• After Graduation: Alumni work at top universities and big companies like Google and Microsoft.

University of California-Davis

• About the Program: Students engage in deep research, ending with a dissertation.
• Jobs After Graduation: Roles in companies or academic positions.
• Vibrant Community: Beyond academics, students join a supportive community, enriching their Ph.D. experience.

University of Colorado - Colorado Springs

• Recognition: UCCS is recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security for excellence in Information Assurance Education.
• Course Approval: The NSA has approved UCCS's courses as meeting national security training standards.
• Overview: This program focuses on vital areas like cyber security, physical security, and homeland security.

University of Idaho

• Partnership with NSA and DHS: The university is part of a program to boost cyber defense education.
• Recognition: The University of Idaho is among the institutions recognized as Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
• Objective: To minimize vulnerabilities in the national information infrastructure.
• Overview: This program is meticulously crafted to deliver premier legal education to its students.
• Courses: Encompasses a balanced mix of traditional legal doctrines, theoretical viewpoints, and hands-on practical experiences.
• Aim: The primary objective is to equip students with top-notch legal education.

University of Missouri-Columbia

• Seminars: PhD students should attend 20 seminars. If they were previously Master's students, their past attendance counts.
• Timeline Requirements: Comprehensive Exam must be completed within five years of starting the program.
• Dissertation and Publication: At least one journal paper must be submitted, accepted, or published.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

• Faculty: The faculty members are renowned for their impactful research contributions on a global scale.
• Curriculum: The curriculum is versatile, catering to individuals aiming for academia as well as those targeting roles in the corporate, commerce, or public sectors.
• Program: A blend of theoretical and hands-on research is emphasized, offering a well-rounded educational experience.

Virginia Tech

• Seminars and Ethics: Students attend special seminars and complete training on scholarly ethics and diversity.
• Guidance: Each student gets a faculty advisor. A group of faculty members, called a committee, also guides them.
• Major Exams: Students go through four main stages: a qualifying process, a preliminary proposal, a research presentation, and a final defense.
• Strong Research: WPI's PhD program is recognized for its excellent research contributions.
• Practical Focus: The program teaches students to tackle real tech challenges.
• Modern Labs: Students use the latest labs like the Human-Robot Interaction Lab.

Dakota State University

• Program Goal: Train students to handle and prevent cyber threats.
• Awards: The university has received top cybersecurity awards.
• What You'll Learn: Research skills, cyber defense techniques, and ethical decision-making.

New Jersey City University, College of Professional Studies

• About: Focuses on best practices in areas like national security, cyber defense, and crisis communication.
• Recognitions: The program has been honored by the National Security Agency since 2009 and was recognized for excellence in intelligence studies.
• Jobs: Graduates are prepared for top roles in sectors like government and education.
• Program Content: The course dives deep into modern cybersecurity topics, from new tech and artificial intelligence to specialized research areas.
• Location Benefits: The university is near many cybersecurity companies and government agencies, giving students unique opportunities.
• For Working People: It's crafted for professionals, allowing them to experience various cybersecurity roles, from tech firms to government.
• Completion Time: Students have up to ten years from starting to finish their dissertation.
• Program: Trains students for roles in academia, government, and business.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: The program combines both technical and managerial aspects of cybersecurity, offering a comprehensive understanding of the field.

The University of Rhode Island

• Research Focus: The Ph.D. program is centered around a big research project in Computer Science.
• Qualifying Exams: Students take exams on core topics, but some might get exemptions if they're already skilled in certain areas.
• Equal Opportunity: The University of Rhode Island is committed to the principles of affirmative action and is an equal opportunity employer.

University of North Texas

• Team Effort: The program is a collaboration between various UNT departments for a well-rounded view of cybersecurity.
• Goals: The course aims to develop critical thinkers who are passionate about the role of information in our lives and can work across different fields.
• Skills Gained: Students will learn about research, teaching methods, decision-making, leadership, and analyzing data.

New York University Tandon School of Engineering

• Scholarships: Many students get scholarships that pay for tuition and give a monthly allowance.
• Research Interest: Research areas include cybersecurity, computer games, web search, graphics, and more.
• Experience: Students can also research in NYU's campuses in Shanghai or Abu Dhabi.
• One Degree for All: Every student gets the same Ph.D., regardless of their specific area of study.
• Research Focus: The program emphasizes deep research and prepares students for advanced roles.
• Major Project: Students work on a big research project, adding new knowledge to the computing world.
• Program: Prepares students for leadership roles in different sectors.
• Opportunities: Qualified students might get opportunities as Research or Teaching Assistants.
• Overview: Focuses on advanced research and modern technologies.

Augusta University

• Goal: The program prepares students for research roles and to make new discoveries in tech.
• Benefits: A Ph.D. opens up leadership opportunities in tech sectors.
• Overview: It focuses on new discoveries in areas like security, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality.

University of Texas at San Antonio

• Financial Support: Full-time students can get funding, which covers tuition and offers roles like teaching assistants.
• Job Prospects: UTSA trains students for jobs that are in high demand, using data from official sources.
• Overview: The program focuses on in-depth research and teaching.

University of Central Florida

• Mix of Subjects: Students can take courses from different areas, giving them a broad view of security topics.
• Many Job Options: Graduates can work in government, big companies, or teach in universities.
• Hands-on Learning: The program offers research, study projects, and internships for real-world experience.

Forensic Psychology Graduate Programs

Master of arts in forensic psychology  .

The Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology is designed to provide a strong foundation in forensic psychology that can be applied to, and within, the criminal and civil justice systems as well as to prepare students for doctoral study in psychology. The 42-credit curriculum focuses on understanding, serving, and studying both offenders and victims. This course of study explores the role of psychology in the legal system, in criminal behavior, in substance and alcohol abuse, and in terrorism. Through the curriculum, students are provided with an advanced understanding of psychological development and psychopathology, personality assessment, psychotherapeutic techniques, and research methods. For more information, please visit this  page .

See d egree requirements  and  admissions information .  Note:  The MA in Forensic Psychology is not a licensure program. States vary in their licensure requirements at the master’s level.

Program Director:  Professor Kendra Doychak ([email protected])

Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling  

This Program, developed within the Psychology Department, has been approved by New York State as a "license eligible" academic program. It satisfies the state's educational requirements leadings toward professional licensure as a Mental Health Counselor, with a specialization in forensics. It develops skills in interviewing, counseling, and assessment, based upon established principles and research regarding human development, personality, psychopathology, and counseling. Students will be uniquely prepared to work towards licensure as counselors in prisons, juvenile detention centers, probation and parole agencies, and social service agencies that counsel and assess adolescents and adults at risk for criminal behavior. The program offers research opportunities for those students interested in pursuing doctoral education. The degree requires 60 credits. For more information, see the  FAQ section . See  admissions . Interim Program Director:  Professor Abbie Tuller ([email protected])

Victim-Focused Programs

​ Certificate of   Victimology Studies in Forensic Psychology  

The Victimology Studies in Forensic Psychology is a 12-credit certificate program which aims to develop specialized knowledge in the area of interpersonal victimization in a forensic psychology context. Areas covered include but are not limited to interpersonal violence and victimization including domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, ch ild abuse, sex and labor trafficking, and hate crimes.  This non-licensable certificate will allow BA graduates working in Victim Services agencies to develop a better understanding of relevant issues, and to possibly consider additional training. It will also be available for those already in our MA Programs, who can concurrently receive the Certificate along with their MA, to demonstrate some focus in this area.  The core courses are PSY 700: Mental Health Professionals, Social Science, and the Law; PSY 705. Victimology; PSY 742. Family Violence and Disputes; and PSY 733. Dissociation and Trauma.

Victim Counseling Track in the Forensic Mental Health Counseling MA Program We have now expanded the current FMHC MA program to offer three tracks. The existing two tracks are not altered. The proposed change will now allow students to select from one of these three tracks--the standard Forensic Counseling Track (formerly externship track), the new Victim Counseling Track, and the combined Forensic Counseling and Thesis Track (formerly thesis track). 

In addition to required FMHC courses, the Victim Counseling Track requires 18 credits as below:

PSY 705 – Victimology (Fall and Spring) PSY 708 – Crisis Intervention and Short-term Counseling (Spring) PSY 733 – Dissociation and Trauma (Fall only) PSY 742 – Family Violence and Disputes (Fall and Spring) PSY 774 – Child Abuse and Neglect (New course:  Spring 2018) PSY 773 – Advanced Issues in Victim Counseling and Psychotherapy

The programs will be coordinated by Dr. Chitra Raghavan, the Deputy Director of the Forensic Mental Health Counseling program, with the help of the MA office staff. Please contact [email protected] if you need more information.

Four-Year Forensic Psychology MA/JD Program 

The Four-Year Forensic Psychology MA/JD offers qualified students the opportunity to earn both a John Jay Master of Arts degree in Forensic Psychology and a New York Law School Juris Doctor degree in Law which may be completed in as little as four years. The curriculum is composed of the existing required and elective courses for the MA and for the JD, requiring a combined total of 128 credits, including 42 credits for the completion of the MA Program in Forensic Psychology and 86 credits for the completion of the JD Program in Law. However, 12 New York Law School credits focusing on mental disability law will be credited towards both the JD and the MA Program. Likewise 12 MA credits from the John Jay Forensic Psychology MA Program will be credited also to the New York Law School JD program. Consequently, due to the 24 transfer credits applied in the dual degree program, the actual number of credits taken will be 104, resulting in graduation for full-time students in four years instead of five. For more information, go to  FAQ . See admissions  and other information.

Program Coordinator:  Professor James Wulach ([email protected])

BA/MA Program  

Qualified undergraduate students may enter the B.A./M.A. Program and thereby graduate with both a bachelor's and a master's degree in forensic psychology. Director:  Professor Diana Falkenbach ([email protected])

Postgraduate Certificate in Forensic Psychology 

This is a state-registered Postgraduate Certificate Program in Forensic Psychology. Students receiving the certificate after 18 creditswill be credentialed with postgraduate documentation of coursework within one of the following six forensic psychology tracks: Psychological Assessment and Forensic Psychology; Family Violence and Victims; Forensic Counseling and Psychotherapy; Research in Forensic Psychology; Selected Topics in Forensic Psychology; Forensic Psychological Assessment and Testimony. This certificate has been developed to permit applicants with a clinical graduate degree to receive additional forensic training and focus in the subspecialty of their choice. The postgraduate certificate is designed primarily for those applicants who have already received a masters or a doctoral degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. For more information, see the  FAQs .  Program Director:  Professor James Wulach ([email protected])

Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences

Undergraduate.

• Major & Minor Requirements
• Honors and Awards
• Undergraduate Courses
• Psychological Research
• Internships and Independent Study
• Psychological Readings
• Undergraduate Student Groups
• Travel Grant Awards

Psychologists study thought and behavior in humans and animals. To understand how and why an individual engages in any given behavior, one must have an understanding of several factors. For example, the biological basis of behavior is studied to understand how the central nervous system, the endocrine system, and genetic influences all interact to yield observable behavior.

Psychologists analyze the cognitive and perceptual systems at a somewhat more abstract level in order to characterize the internal representations and processes that underlie perception, thought, and action. The personality of the individual—how that individual differs from others—is also an important determinant of behavior.

Social psychology is the study of how individuals behave in a social context, where virtually all behavior takes place. Because living organisms change over time, the development of physiological, perceptual, cognitive, personality, and social factors can also help explain behavior in humans and animals.

Psychopathology is the study of psychological disorders, which can interfere with an individual’s ability to cope with everyday life.  

The department believes that through thoughtful relationships with advisers, engaged interactions with researchers, and involvement with the brain sciences community at JHU and beyond, undergraduate students will gain a breadth of understanding and knowledge in the field which will serve them well in their endeavors after graduating from Hopkins.

Learning Goals

The undergraduate courses in psychological and brain sciences aim to:

• Acquaint all interested students with a sampling of topics through a variety of introductory and advanced courses
• Prepare majors for graduate work in psychology and related disciplines through a program that meets the admission requirements of the outstanding graduate departments in the United States
• Offer a distribution of courses for a minor concentration in psychology as well as several fields of concentration for area majors in the social and behavioral sciences
• Provide an honors track designed for exceptional students who want training beyond that provided by the standard undergraduate curriculum.

To fulfill the program mission and objectives, undergraduates at Johns Hopkins University who complete the psychology major should:

• Understand the basic concepts underlying the major sub-disciplines of psychology as a field of scientific inquiry
• Develop a thorough grounding in quantitative skills and experimental methodology in the field of psychological science
• Be able to appreciate and critically evaluate the primary research literature in psychological and brain sciences
• Develop effective skills in written and oral communication, including the ability to structure a logical argument using supporting scientific evidence, geared to both specialists and non-specialists
• Be prepared for career paths and advanced graduate study in psychology and related fields.

Because of its broad scope, the study of psychology and related disciplines extends beyond the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences to other departments and organizations within Johns Hopkins University. Some of these include the departments of Biology , Biophysics , Cognitive Science , Computer Science , Philosophy , Sociology ; the Mind-Brain Institute ; as well as departments in the School of Medicine, the School of Public Health, the Peabody Conservatory, and the Applied Physics Laboratory. Psychology majors are strongly urged to take advantage of these diverse opportunities for research and collaboration.

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Psychology Degree Concentrations: 5 Examples to Consider

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By Matt Rowley Posted on May 9, 2024

The popularity of psychology degrees has remained steady in recent years. For aspiring psychologists, bachelor’s degrees are important steps in their academic journey, as they typically continue studying in graduate programs. For others, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can be worth it on its own and help graduates advance in other related careers.

In many cases, psychology degree programs include concentrations that help students focus their studies toward specific career fields, whether they’re on the path to becoming a psychologist or otherwise.

In this article, we outline five types of psychology degree concentrations, using examples from our bachelor’s degree programs here at Columbia Southern University.

1. Criminal Justice

Psychology is becoming increasingly essential in the criminal justice field . A criminal justice degree concentration involves a particular focus on criminology and the theories that inform the U.S. criminal justice system. Students grapple with the theoretical reasons for crime, its psychological impact on victims, and the psychology and motivations of criminal justice professionals.

This popular concentration teaches students to develop a functional understanding of the justice system and learn which psychological, emotional and societal factors influence people to commit crimes.

Classes in a criminal justice concentration may include:

• Criminology
• Mental Illness and Crime
• Victimology

Related: Criminal Justice Degree Programs: What to Expect

2. Diversity and Inclusion

As the phrase “diversity, equity and inclusion” continues to grow in usage and become a part of our common language, it’s no surprise that businesses are increasingly hiring DEI experts and universities are launching DEI degree programs .

Psychology degree programs with a concentration in diversity, equity and inclusion are focused on the experiences and difficulties faced by people who are marginalized based on their gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or socioeconomic background. These programs aim to provide insight into how to address the issues of bias, marginalization and discrimination in professional, educational and social settings.

A degree concentration focused on diversity and inclusion may include classes such as:

• Diversity and Cultural Inclusion
• Psychology of Gender
• Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination

3. Forensics

Forensic psychologists work in the criminal justice field, with a particular focus on assessments and research into the mental state of criminals, victims, witnesses and others involved in the criminal justice system. Studying forensic psychology gives students the skills necessary to assess an individual’s mental state and motivations based on interviews, crime scene investigations and other factors.

Lawyers, law enforcement professionals, courts and other entities in the criminal justice system rely on forensic psychology to assess the state, credibility and mental fitness of criminals, victims or others.

Forensic psychology degree programs include classes such as:

• Introduction to Forensic Investigation
• Forensic Psychology
• Pathology of Death

Related: Forensic Science Myths and the “CSI Effect”

4. Industrial/Organizational

Also called I/O psychology , this degree concentration involves applying psychological principles and science to the structure, productivity and outcomes of a workplace or organization. Focusing on the interactions between people and organizational patterns and decisions, I/O psychologists work to uncover the ways personal, emotional and social behavior affects the success or failure of an organization.

I/O psychologists can be focused externally as well, helping companies understand consumer behavior, public relations and ethics. More than some other concentrations, I/O psychology also focuses a great deal on group dynamics and interactions, exploring organizations as large groups, a set of subgroups, and the relations between them. The day-to-day work of I/O psychologists is often strongly intertwined with occupational safety and health , as well as human resources .

Classes in an industrial/organizational psychology concentration may include:

• Human Relations and Development
• Negotiation/Conflict Resolution
• Team Building and Leadership

5. Mental Health

Possibly the best-known psychological discipline, a mental health concentration provides students a foundation in the identification, assessment and treatment of mental health issues. Students explore the history and theoretical basis of psychology as it relates to mental health, learn how to use statistics and academic research, and study real-world situations in which examples of common mental health issues unfold.

Because one in five adults struggle with mental health issues , this discipline touches everyone’s life in some way. Studying the many situations and dynamics that create these mental health issues is an essential part of psychology.

Psychology degree programs focused on mental health include classes such as:

• Close Relationships
• Cognitive Psychology
• Health Psychology

Getting Started at CSU

Here at Columbia Southern University, our psychology degree concentrations enable our students to customize their studies with a specific focus on their career path. The exposure to focused research, interaction with subject matter experts, and intimate knowledge of the field and the psychological principles at play provide a foundation for success.

For more information about all our online degree programs and concentrations, visit our website .

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

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