From day one in the psychology degree, IW students immediately engage in the application of psychology to the real world and understanding the science of human behavior.

This includes:

Hands-on experiential learning
Internships with community organizations and businesses
Student-faculty research projects
Developing critical thinking and communication skills
Building relationships within the field and community at large
Applying a unique understanding of psychology

IW psychology graduates are prepared for the expanding job market and for successful entry to competitive graduate and professional programs, such as those accredited by the American Psychological Association or the National Association of Social Workers.

The Psychology college degree provides excellent preparation for a number of careers in such areas as social services, health care, government organizations, business, and teaching (in conjunction with the education major or an advanced degree).

Psychology Degree Concentrations

At IW, students can customize their education by completing core and support courses as well as choose from five concentration areas to flexibly meet their career goals.

General Psychology

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Developmental Psychology

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Counseling Psychology

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Substance Abuse Counseling

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Sport Psychology

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Psychology Degree Requirements:

Curricular Requirements for psychology major – complete all of the following:

Complete the psychology major core curriculum requirements and
Complete the required support courses and
Complete at least one major concentration area

Core Requirements

Complete all of the following with a final grade of C- or better:

PSYC 101 Careers in Psychology
PSYC 131 General Psychology
PSYC 249 Research Methods in Psychology I
PSYC 349 Research Methods in Psychology II
PSYC 498 Psychology Internship
PSYC 499 Psychology Seminar

Required Support Course Requirements

Complete all of the following with a final grade of C- or better:

Any 200/300 level ENG Literature course
COMM 147 Introduction to Public Speaking

Choose one of the following:

WS 300 Global Issues
WS 315 Social Justice and Service
NUR/WS 325 Global Health Care

Recommended support course:

PHIL 215 Ethics for Life and Career

Career Opportunities in Psychology

Bachelor level positions

Child Care Worker
Career/Employment Counselor
Market Research Analyst
Psychiatric Technician
Substance Abuse Counselor
Criminal Investigator
Disability Case Manager
Social Services Aide

Masters level positions

Industrial/Organizational Psychologist
School Counselor
Forensic Psychologist
Family Services Worker
Data Analyst
Counseling Psychologist
Behavioral Counselor

Doctorate level psychology

Research Scientist
Professor
Research Director
Psychiatrist
Sports Psychologist
Clinical Psychologist
Incarceration Researcher

Career Outcomes

2021 Median Pay

Substance Abuse Counselor

School Counselor

Clinical Psychologist

Internships Through Iowa Wesleyan's Psychology Degree

ADDS (Alcohol Drug Dependency Services)
Christamore Family Treatment Center
Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility
Great Prairie Area Education Agency
Iowa State Extension Office
Out Of State Opportunities

Clubs and Activities

The Behavioral Science Club offers students an opportunity to learn more about social sciences outside the classroom. It’s a fun way to interact and network with other majors and faculty. The group does social activities, service projects, academic endeavors (such as research projects and organizing the Green Bandana Project), and events on campus to raise awareness of mental health issues and special interests of student members. The club allows students to develop professional networks, have hands-on experiences, interact socially with peers and faculty, and build leadership skills. All majors can participate, and the only membership requirement is an interest in the social sciences (Psychology, Human Services, Sociology, and Criminal Justice).

Green Bandana Project -- You Are Not Alone

The green bandana project was brought to campus in 2021 by the Behavioral Science Club. This project was designed to help those who are experiencing mental illness to become more aware of resources available. After going through training, students tie a green bandana on their backpack to indicate they are individuals you can safely approach with mental health related concerns.