The course of study and the requirements for the B.A. degree in Psychology provide an opportunity for students who (a) desire to extend their education in the liberal arts with an emphasis in psychology, (b) want to prepare themselves for graduate work in psychology or (c) plan to enter one of several professional or occupational fields for which a substantial background in psychology is essential. The vision of the Department of Psychology is summed up in one word: ''Relevance.'' The Department of Psychology, housed in a University serving one of the world's most diverse urban regions, is committed to excellence in teaching, research and service to the community. Our mission is to provide students with a strong academic background in psychology, as well as to help them develop professional competence. We encourage students to develop critical-thinking skills, creative abilities, interpersonal skills, ethical values and integrity in an inclusive community in which teaching and mentoring of students are valued. Our courses encourage scholarship, intellectual inquiry, professional achievement and service to the community. Students acquire many skills through fieldwork and service learning, as well as involvement in research projects guided by our faculty. We encourage students to gain knowledge and comprehension of the theories, concepts and empirical approaches used in psychology and their application to the human condition.<br><br>Our program offers a broad spectrum of theoretical approaches, including biological, developmental, behavioral, individual and social systems, as well as learning and cognitive processes. As part of their academic training, students gain knowledge and understanding of research methodology and the statistical analysis of empirical data. Through the department's commitment to applied social science research, students obtain the critical core skills necessary to meet the needs of the region, as well as to be competitive in the multicultural marketplace as either members of the workforce or as graduate students.