B.A. in Accounting
Lycoming's B.S. in Accounting provides two tracks for students: a 150-credit hour t...
B.S. in Psychology
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.S. in Psychology at Lycoming College distinguishes itself through its emphasis on the scientific approach to understanding behavior and mental processes. Unlike a B.A., the B.S. track places a heavier focus on natural science and mathematics, making it an excellent fit for students interested in research careers, academia, or pursuing medical and other health professions. The program offers extensive opportunities for students to explore specific interests within psychology, fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Lycoming is notable for being one of the few colleges nationwide to offer a lab section with its Introductory Psychology course, providing early exposure to empirical research.
Curriculum: The B.S. in Psychology curriculum is structured to provide a rigorous scientific education. Required core courses typically include "Foundations of Psychology," "Research Methods," and "Statistics," laying a strong empirical groundwork. Students are also required to take additional science and math courses, often totaling around 25 credit hours, aligning with the B.S. emphasis on natural science. The program incorporates various upper-level psychology courses, allowing students to explore areas such as abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and behavioral neuroscience. A key strength is the integration of research opportunities directly into coursework, even from introductory levels, ensuring continuous hands-on experience.
Research Focus: Research is a central and highly emphasized component of the B.S. in Psychology program at Lycoming College. Students are exposed to research opportunities beginning in introductory courses and can design and submit independent research projects for presentation at local and regional conferences. They have opportunities to compete for summer research grants, such as the Haberberger Fellowship, to work alongside faculty members on their ongoing research, which can even lead to co-authorship on publications. Faculty members are active researchers with diverse interests, providing a rich environment for students to engage in meaningful scientific inquiry. The program also focuses on ethical considerations in psychological research, ensuring students understand responsible research practices.
Industry Engagement: Lycoming College places a strong emphasis on practical industry engagement for its Psychology students. The Center for Enhanced Academic Experiences (CEAE) provides comprehensive support for internships, career counseling, and graduate school applications. Students are encouraged to participate in various placements, which can include local organizations like Crossroads Counseling, Lycoming Therapeutic Services, state and federal prisons, and Ashler Manor, providing valuable real-world experience in clinical, community, and forensic settings. Psychology Club and Psi Chi (the national psychology honors society) also offer opportunities for professional networking and community service. These experiences help students apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations and build a strong resume.
Global Perspective: A global perspective is integrated into Lycoming College's Psychology program through the study of human behavior across diverse cultural contexts and the universal application of psychological principles. While the primary focus is on empirical psychology within a Western framework, the curriculum often explores cross-cultural psychology, global mental health issues, and the impact of societal factors on psychological well-being worldwide. Lycoming College actively encourages and facilitates study abroad opportunities, including specific May Term travel courses to countries like Ireland or Italy, which can provide invaluable firsthand experience with different cultures and their approaches to psychological understanding and practice. This exposure prepares graduates to work effectively in an increasingly globalized and diverse world.
Location
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 49258
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 50 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Lycoming College is attracting talented international students by offering generous and competitive scholarship opportunities. These scholarships help make a high-quality liberal arts education accessible and affordable for students from around the world, fostering a diverse and vibrant campus community.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to Lycoming College are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships there is no separate application required. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.
Renewable Scholarships: Scholarships awarded to international students at Lycoming are renewable for up to four years, provided that students maintain satisfactory academic progress and good standing with the college. This continuity offers financial stability throughout the undergraduate journey.
Need-Based Aid: In addition to merit scholarships, Lycoming College offers limited need-based financial aid to international students who demonstrate financial need. Students may be required to submit additional documentation to be considered for this aid. Need-based support complements merit awards to further reduce the overall cost of attendance.
Specialty Scholarships and Awards: Lycoming College occasionally provides targeted scholarships based on students’ fields of study, leadership qualities, or unique talents. International students are encouraged to inquire about available departmental awards or special grants during the admissions process.
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology from Lycoming College provides graduates with a highly sought-after blend of scientific knowledge, quantitative analytical skills, and hands-on laboratory experience.
Research Assistant/Laboratory Technician: This is a common entry point into research careers, whether in academic labs, government agencies, or private companies (e.g., pharmaceutical, market research firms). Graduates assist with designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to studies on human behavior and mental processes.
Case Manager/Social Services Worker: The program's focus on understanding human behavior, social dynamics, and diverse populations makes graduates well-suited for roles in social services. They help individuals and families access resources, provide support, and advocate for clients facing various challenges in community organizations, non-profits, or government agencies. Lycoming alumni have found employment in places like the Abuse & Rape Crisis Center and Youth Advocacy Programs.
Behavioral Health Technician / Psychiatric Technician: Graduates can work directly with individuals experiencing mental health challenges or developmental disorders. They implement therapeutic interventions, monitor progress, and provide support in settings like residential treatment centers, psychiatric hospitals, or outpatient clinics. Lycoming alumni have worked as ABA Counselors and Behavioral Technicians.
Human Resources Specialist / Training & Development: Understanding motivation, group dynamics, and individual differences is crucial in HR. Graduates can work in corporate settings, assisting with recruitment, employee relations, training programs, and fostering a positive work environment. Lycomings' alumni have entered roles as Human Resources Specialists.
Data Analyst: The B.S. in Psychology, with its emphasis on statistics and research methods, equips graduates with strong data analysis skills. They can work in various industries to collect, interpret, and present data to inform decisions, particularly those related to consumer behavior, market trends, or organizational effectiveness. Alumni have become Operations Analysts.
Admissions Counselor / Student Affairs Professional (Higher Education): Graduates can apply their understanding of developmental psychology and communication skills to work in college admissions, student support services, or residence life, guiding students through their academic and personal journeys.
Probation/Parole Officer: Lycoming's psychology program can prepare graduates for roles in the criminal justice system. Understanding criminal behavior and rehabilitation strategies is vital for supervising individuals on probation or parole.
Market Research Analyst: Combining an understanding of human psychology with research methodology, graduates can help companies understand consumer preferences, market trends, and product appeal, contributing to marketing and business strategy.
Early Childhood Educator / Paraeducator: For those interested in working with children, a psychology degree provides valuable insights into child development and learning. Graduates can work in preschools, daycare centers, or as paraeducators supporting teachers in K-12 settings. Lycoming graduates have found roles as Preschool Teachers and Assistant Teachers.
