For First-years and Sophomores

FAQ’s for First-years and Sophomores

• How would I decide whether to major in Psychology?

  • You should first know what Psychology is about! Psychology is a broad field with many sub-disciplines. Although the word psychology may first bring to mind topics such as psychoanalysis and counseling, it is about much, much more than that. Just take a look at the courses offered within the department, and you will see a diverse range of topics, including “Attraction and Relationships”, “The Mental Lives of Babies and Animals”, and “The Criminal Mind”. The very best way to gain an understanding of the breadth of Psychology is to take Introduction in Psychology, which is offered every term. Note that although other 100-level courses are also accessible to freshmen and sophomores, they are significantly narrower in scope.
     

• What should I take after Introduction to Psychology and when should I take each course?

  • Needless to say, it varies depending on students, but see the table below for a possible schedule for the standard track.

See the table below for the neuroscience track.

• As a Psychology major, can I get research experiences?

  • See under “Research Experience” in FAQ.
     

• What can I do with a Psychology major when I graduate?

  • Well, the short answer is that you can do pretty much anything with a Psychology degree. For more specifics, check out the APA webpage on psychology careers.
     

• I am trying to decide between majoring in Psychology and Cognitive Science. What are the differences?

  • There are some similarities between Psychology and Cognitive Science majors. Both focus on questions related to how the mind works. However, the two majors have a different focus. Your best bet to learn more would be to look through the requirements of each program, and see which program best encompasses the set of courses you are hoping to take. You can also chat in person with the DUS for each major to hear more about the similarities and differences (For more information about Cognitive Science, click here.)
     

• Where can I find information about the Neuroscience Track within the Psychology Major?

  • The neuroscience track is a special track within the Psychology Major for students who are interested in neuroscience. Such students are considered Psychology majors for whom the requirements have been modified to accommodate their interests, and to reflect the multidisciplinary nature of modern neuroscience and psychology. Interested students are encouraged to meet with the track adviser, Dr. Steve Chang (steve.chang@yale.edu). You should also take a look at the Neuroscience Track Major Worksheet which will give you a nice guide for how to fulfill all the Neuroscience Track requirements.

• If I have questions that are not covered here, whom can I contact?

  • First check FAQ section. If your questions are still not covered there, contact DUS of Psychology; yarrow.dunham@yale.edu.

  • We also have senior mentors who are eager to talk to any students interested in majoring in Psychology. Click here and scroll down to the bottom of the page to find their contact information.