Psychological Science

The CMC Psychological Science major prepares students to use psychological concepts and methods in everyday life. Students receive a broad knowledge and hands-on experiences in applied, professional, and scientific psychology. Courses emphasize the application of psychology to current social issues. Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty, especially conducting research in their labs.

Many students combine Psychological Science with other majors (e.g., Economics, Government, Biology) and add interdisciplinary sequences in Leadership, Data Science, Legal Studies, and Neuroscience to develop expertise that will expand their career options.

Top Resources

• Faculty
• Faculty Publications & Grants
• Research Labs & Institutes
• Research Programs and Opportunities
• Why Psych? New Student Information (quick view pdf)
• Psych Major Summary (quick view pdf)
• Finding Internships & Careers with Psych (pdf)
• Faculty Teaching & Research Interests (quick view pdf)
• Student Application Forms

Psychological Science Major

Psychological Science courses provide an understanding of human and social processes relevant for a variety of careers. This major is relevant for students students interested in graduate study or using it as a foundation for other careers. CMC Psychological Science majors have developed professional roles in mental health care, education, law, administration, health care, business, public service, data science, and user experience. Given the diversity in students’ career interests and the richness of course offerings available across The Claremont Colleges, students are encouraged to work closely with faculty, especially conducting research both in labs and in the community. Our program provides many opportunities for students to get hands-on experience working in research laboratories. This participation allows students opportunities for course credit, paid research assistantships and summer internships. 

International Students: Psychological Science is an approved ICE STEM major that allows international students to extend their VISAs (https://www.apa.org/science/about/psa/2011/05/visa-extensions).

• Major Requirements
• Psychological Science Courses
• Psych Major FAQs
• Advice to Freshman
• Psi Chi & Psych Club
• For addition information, contact Department Chair, Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang or Department Coordinator, Linda Chavez

Research Labs and Institutes

A great way to learn about psychological science and gain valuable, hands-on experience is to work in the research laboratories run by CMC Psychological Science faculty.

Central to the Psych major experience is the involvement of students in research projects. Students work directly with faculty either on existing projects or develop their own research studies. Laboratory opportunities provide hands-on experience in current research methods in Psychological Science. 

Internships (see Careers, Internships, & Graduate School) provide off campus learning experiences in clinical and other types of work environments.

In addition to the research labs, many Psychological Science students are active in CMC’s research institutes as research assistants. The Centers also provide support for internships and research through a range of fellowships for which students can apply.

• Berger Institute for Individual and Social Development
• Kravis Leadership Institute
• The Claremont Autism Center

Fellowships and National Awards

Psychological Science majors are well-positioned to apply for a range of prestigious fellowships, including the Fulbright, Goldwater, Rhodes, Gates-Cambridge, Pickering, Scoville, Luce, and many more. CMC provides tremendous support to students as they apply for these and encourages students to consider these wonderful opportunities. Visit the Fellowships office to learn more!