Objectives and Outcomes

Knowledge, Skills, and Values Consistent with the Science and Application of Psychology

1. Theory and Content of Psychology – students should show familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
2. Research Methods in Psychology – students should understand and apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
3. Critical Thinking Skills in Psychology – students should respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and, when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes.
4. Applications of Psychology – students should understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
5. Values in Psychology – students should be able to weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect other values that are the underpinnings of psychology as a discipline.

Knowledge, Skills, and Values Consistent with Liberal Arts Education that are Further Developed in Psychology

6. Information and Technological Literacy – students should demonstrate information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes.
7. Communication Skills – students should be able to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.
8. Sociocultural and International Awareness – students should recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural and international diversity.
9. Personal Development – students should develop insight into their own and others’ behavior and mental processes and apply effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement.
10. Career Planning and Development – students should emerge from the major with realistic ideas about how to implement their psychological knowledge, skills, and values in occupational pursuits in a variety of settings.

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Dr. Robert L. Matchock
Associate Professor of Psychology
E133 Smith Building
Phone: 814-949-5249
E-mail: rlm191@psu.edu