Why study psychology?
Psychology as a science studies questions that are fundamental to understanding ourselves and our day-to-day lives. We explore why and how people think, feel and act the way they do in an ever-changing world.
We are a community of students and faculty passionate about psychology as a scientific discipline, and we use and practically apply our discoveries to improve the lives of individuals and communities. We welcome students to contribute to our research labs and community-based partnerships as part of their learning experiences and work toward their degree.
Learn more about what psychologists do and why employers value these skills.
News
Oct. 17, 2024
New listing of the world’s most-cited scientists includes 11 VCU faculty who rank in the top 50 of their fields
The 2024 Stanford Elsevier report highlights the top 2% globally, and VCU’s broad presence reflects its expanding research portfolio.
Sept. 23, 2024
Got election anxiety? Here’s what to know about the causes – and how to cope
VCU psychology professor Michael Southam-Gerow shares insight about change and managing emotions.
Sept. 16, 2024
VCU’s new El Centro will support Latine students, faculty and staff in academic success and community engagement
The center, part of the Division of Inclusive Excellence, officially launches in September and is developing a range of programs.
Psychology Spotlight
Meet Araba
Araba Amissa developed a passion for understanding human behavior and emotions in high school and decided to lean into that interest with a psychology degree. Visit our 'Meet a Student' page to read more about Araba's favorite classes, professors and her work in the Cultural Psychology in Africa lab.
Fast track to a master's degree in counselor education
Earn your B.S. in psychology and M.Ed. in counselor education in six years by completing approved graduate courses during the senior year of your undergraduate program.
Study in our new STEM building
Our brand new, 169,000-square-foot building is dedicated to all things STEM, including psychology. Psychology students will have the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art labs, classrooms and shared study spaces.