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
Sept. 29, 2026
VCU clinic expands eating disorder treatment and training in Virginia
The new research-based clinic, led by psychologists Ann Haynos and Bek Urban, accepts adolescents and adults statewide while developing a new generation of practitioners.
Sept. 22, 2026
How I found my research: Raven Bacchas thrives in the EMPOWER Youth Lab
The developmental psychology Ph.D. student, whose research focuses on the experiences of Multiracial and Multiethnic LGBTQIA+ people, has proven to be a prolific researcher and impactful mentor at VCU.
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.