Psychology

The B.S. in psychology is a 120-credit program combining coursework in psychological science, research methods, statistics and applied learning. Explore the biological, cognitive, developmental and social influences on human behavior while developing skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis and evidence-based problem-solving.

Curriculum highlights include

• Research methods and statistics: Learn to design studies, collect and analyze data and evaluate psychological research.
• Biological bases of behavior: Investigate how the brain, nervous system and biological processes influence thinking, emotion and behavior.
• Learning, memory and cognition: Explore how people acquire knowledge, process information, remember experiences and make decisions.
• Developmental and social psychology: Examine how individuals develop, interact and respond to social influences throughout their lives.
• Personality and clinical psychology: Study individual differences, psychological disorders and scientific approaches to understanding mental health.
• Specialized psychology topics: Explore subjects such as human factors, workplace psychology, aging and the psychology of emotion through available coursework.

What's the difference between a psychology B.A. and B.S.?

Both undergraduate psychology degrees at University of Idaho provide a foundation in human behavior, psychological research and data analysis. The Bachelor of Arts includes additional foreign language coursework and B.A. degree requirements, while the Bachelor of Science follows B.S. degree requirements without the same foreign language sequence.

Both paths offer opportunities to participate in research, explore specialized areas of psychology and prepare for graduate study or careers where understanding human behavior is valuable.

View the B.S. in psychology degree map 

Hands-on learning

Participate in research studies and computer programming projects conducted on campus. Gain practical experience investigating psychological questions, working with research data and applying scientific methods to better understand human behavior. 

Internships

Apply your psychology education in community settings through internships that connect classroom learning with real-world experience. Students may earn internship credit while developing professional skills and working with community partners.  

Internship sites include:

• Ravens Scholars Program
• Vandal Health Education
• Citizen’s Companion Program
• Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse
• Latah Recovery Center and Crisis Center
• Milestone Decisions
• Opportunities Unlimited
• Moscow Mentor Program

Internship opportunities and placements may vary by semester.

Psi Chi at University of Idaho  

Connect with fellow psychology students through U of I's chapter of Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology. Membership offers opportunities for awards, grants and scholarships.  

The student club meets about once a month during the fall and spring semesters, offering guest speakers, grad school preparation workshops and social events. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend chapter meetings. 

While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:

• Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
• Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
• Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.

If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.

Program-specific scholarships

• Butch Boyer Award: Given each year to approximately four undergraduates. Each recipient receives up to $1,000 for the following academic year.
• Phil Mohan Scholar Award: Given each year to one undergraduate for excellence in research. Each recipient receives up to $350.

Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.

Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.