Psychology

Faculty:
H. Hackett - Chair, Adamopoulos, Boomer, A. Cole, C. Cole, Kostan, and Wittig
Health Sciences Building 241 • 417-625-9315

Mission

The Psychology Department at Missouri Southern provides an education in the diverse field of Psychology. The core of the Psychology curriculum reflects the breadth of the field and exposes students to new developments, while allowing students to pursue individual academic interests. The department maintains a special emphasis on research and prepares students to effectively analyze, synthesize and present information about the science of behavior and mental processes. Our mission is to help students develop the critical thinking and communication skills they can use in their careers.

The Psychology Department offers two degrees: the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Science (BS). These degrees have the same General Education and Psychology course requirements. In addition, the BA includes an emphasis on modern language and the BS includes an emphasis in science. Both degrees prepare students for careers that require a broad liberal arts education at the bachelor’s level. Recent graduates with both degrees have entered careers in human and social services, research and business. The BA and BS degrees provide an excellent foundation for students who wish to earn advanced graduate degrees or go to professional school. Almost half of the recent graduates have entered into graduate programs. Recent graduates earning advanced degrees have become Licensed Professional Counselors or Psychologists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Occupational or Physical Therapists, Board Certified Behavior Analysts, Research Directors, Professors, and Attorneys.

The Psychology Department offers specialized certificates in Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Applied Behavior Analysis. When paired with practicum hours students may pursue national board certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and Board- Certified assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA).

The Psychology Department also provides courses to meet the needs of other majors. PSY 0100 fulfills a General Education Requirement. Students may also earn a minor in psychology.

In order to graduate with a major in Psychology, a student must meet the following requirements:

Earn a 2.50 or above overall GPA.
Earn a 2.50 or above in all PSY prefix courses required within the major.

Student Organizations

Psychology Club is open to all students who are interested in psychology. The club provides an informal setting for students to learn more about psychology. The club sponsors a wide variety of social and intellectual activities each semester.

Psi Chi - The International Honor Society in Psychology recognizes academic excellence and stimulates further scholarship. Psi Chi members are invited to participate in national and regional professional events. Locally, Psi Chi members share many activities with the Psychology Club.

For additional information contact:
Dr. Holly Hackett
Health Sciences 234
417-625-9835
hackett-h@mssu.edu

Programs

Major Programs (Undergraduate)

Certificates (Undergraduate)

Minors (Undergraduate)

Psychology Minor, PY80

Courses

Psychology