Psychology Major & Minor
“I chose Carthage because of its exceptional academic programs, supportive community, and commitment to fostering growth. The College’s reputation for personalized education aligns perfectly with my aspiration to excel as a double major/minor student.”
“The Carthage faculty are amazing. My professors taught me so much and inspired me to enjoy the work I do in the classroom. The encouragement I’ve received from them has been one of my greatest helpers at college.”
“My heart would skip a beat every time I saw the campus and looked at all the banners around the school. That’s when I knew this was the college for me.”
“I had a gut feeling Carthage was where I belonged. I trusted my gut, and I am proud I did.”
“Carthage faculty and staff have helped me feel welcomed on campus, and they engage in a hands-on and personal way with my learning.”
Major in psychology at Carthage
Carthage psychology majors are trained not only in the content of psychology (theories of behavior and mental processes), but also in the scientific process that has informed our understanding of the mind. As they learn about the modes of scientific inquiry within psychology, they gain practice applying those within the five pillars of psychological science:
- Biological — studying the brain and behavior, often in non-humans
- Cognitive — studying mental processes, typically in humans
- Developmental — studying behavior across the lifespan
- Social and Personality — studying individual differences and interactions between people
- Mental and Physical Health — studying techniques for enhancing and promoting wellbeing
Students focus their research efforts on the areas that most interest them, gaining first-hand experience working in one of the departmental laboratories. Students who plan to work in health or social services can participate in Carthage’s fieldwork program. A third of psychology majors have a second major, many in allied areas like neuroscience or criminal justice. More than half go on to graduate school.
original research for Psychology Majors
Research is built into the Carthage experience through the required senior thesis and options such as the paid Summer Undergraduate Research Experience. Ongoing focuses include the psychological basis of magic, handwritten word perception, odor memory and perception in pregnancy, physiological responses to stress, and selection of college majors. Many students present their work at professional gatherings.
Current research topics include:
- Odor memory and odor perception in pregnancy
- The psychological basis of magic and illusion
- Prosocial behavior in peer relationships
- The psychological and physiological consequences of stress
- Understanding of death and the afterlife
- Development of humor over the lifespan
Psychology Degree special academic options
Pre-Health: Aspiring health care professionals consult frequently with a pre-health coordinator to select courses that match their abilities and goals.
Occupational Therapy: In this dual degree program, students spend three years at Carthage and then complete a master’s or clinical doctorate at Washington University in St. Louis.
Occupational Therapy at Carthage
Where Carthage psychology majors go
A large percentage of alumni enter graduate school to specialize in one of the subfields of psychology or to pursue law, public health, social work, or occupational therapy. Ultimately, graduates have found positions with employers such as:
- Early Childhood Education Institute
- Sensient Technologies
- KGH Autism Services
- Quarles & Brady LLP
- Allstate
- YWCA of Lake County (Ill.)
- CareerBuilder Employment Screening
- SC Johnson