This diversity mirrors the heterogeneity of modern psychology and also makes for a lively intellectual community in our department. Majoring in psychology will provide you with a special combination of intellectual skills. As a Psychology Major, you will learn how to reason in a coherent manner, to break down a complex problem into its component parts, to use empirical information to evaluate a claim, and how to communicate your ideas effectively. These general skills are critical to your success in both personal and professional life. Some of these, such as critical thinking, are taught as part of all majors available in the College in Arts and Sciences.
Some majors stress effective written and oral communication.
Other majors emphasize training in empirical research techniques. The purpose of this handbook is to help you take fullest advantage of the Psychology Major here at Boston College by providing some useful background information. As is true throughout Boston College, the Psychology Department offers a wide range of courses and opportunities which number many more than any one student can experience. The real task is selecting from among the many options in a way that provides the best possible education. The most important preparation for what follows is realizing that, ultimately, you are the person most responsible for your education.