A psychology major should be able to understand, evaluate, and utilize basic statistical methods. This knowledge prepares students to read and produce research. A psychology major should understand psychological testing techniques. These techniques are widely used in research, education, and business. A psychology major should understand the basics of sound research methodology.
All psychological knowledge is based on research.
The ability to construct and evaluate research is another general skill with wide applicability. A psychology major should be able to locate,read, and evaluate the primary literature in psychology. In an information age, the ability to locate and digest information inthe critical skill that separates the upwardly mobile from those who are not. The third major goal of our psychology department is to develop the critical thinking skills of its students whether majors or non-majors. Students should be challenged to develop an independent thinking ability that is clear and logical.