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The Psychology Program

Upon completion of department requirements, students will have obtained the ability to conduct research and are knowledgeable of contemporary psychological theory. With the ability to empathize and communicate with others, Psychology majors will then be able to understand personality and disposition to determine how individuals can be treated. Students who complete a major in Psychology will have an enhanced understanding of human behavior, skills in utilizing and evaluating psychology research, improved communication and interpersonal skills, and a broadened understanding of how psychology issues influence contemporary thought, demonstrating critical thinking skills.

Careers

Students receive professional instruction at William Penn University and are qualified to practice in a variety of fields. Graduates of the Psychology program will be well-prepared for a career in:

  • Case Management
  • Career Counselor
  • Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Psychiatric Technician
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Sports Psychology
  • School Psychology

Internships

Internships are an exceptional way to enhance professional capabilities and strengthen networking status. Psychology majors are required by faculty to participate in 100 hours of internship experience, so students can apply theoretical concepts and generate a better understanding of psychological interpretation at professional levels. Students and professors work together to find local opportunities suitable for college level experience. These are some potential internships you may want to pursue:

  • Personal Development Research Assistant
  • Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Conduct Research at University of Iowa
  • St. Luke’s Miracle Network
  • Big Brothers/Big Sisters Non-Profit Management
  • Dakota Country Victims Assistance

The William Penn University Psychology Program provides an eye opening experience that opens the mind to infinite possibilities.

Roxanna Jensen and Tanya Sellers, WPU Psychology students

Faculty

Michael Collins, Ph.D.

Social and Behavioral Sciences Division Chair, Professor of Sociology 641-673-1393 Email

Zackery P. Meade, M.A.

Instructor of Psychology | Instructor of Human Services Email

Sarah Kienzler, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Psychology 641-673-1072 Email

Organizations

William Penn University’s Social and Behavioral Sciences Club is designed for student development within leadership positions, and creating a social environment directed toward generating skills pertaining to social and psychological analysis. The Club is open to all Penn students interested in social interaction.

Courses

You will take the following courses as a psychology student:

Psychology Core courses

  • PSYC 102 Introduction to Psychology
  • PSYC 260 Social Psychology
  • PSYC 326 Abnormal Psychology
  • PSYC 327 Personality
  • PSYC 333 Learning
  • PSYC 335 Experimental Psychology
  • PSYC 390 Psychology Practicum
  • PSYC Electives

Psychology Minor courses

  • PSYC 102 Introduction to Psychology

Fifteen hours from the following*

  • *Nine hours must be selected from
  • PSYC 108 Life-Span Psychology
  • PSYC 303 Developmental & Educational Psychology
  • PSYC 240 Health Psychology
  • PSYC 260 Social Psychology
  • *Six hours must be selected from
  • PSYC 326 Abnormal Psychology
  • PSYC 327 Personality
  • PSYC 333 Learning
  • PSYC 335 Experimental Psychology