Undergraduate Students

For the Spring 2024 semester, the Undergraduate Psychology Department Advising Office will offer both in-person and remote options. Make sure you take a look at our advising section to get more information on the virtual office and appointment options! Non-MSU students should reach out with questions via phone 517-353-7271 or email psyugrad@msu.edu.

 

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the study of human mental processes and behavior. Psychology is both a biological and social science, a scholarly discipline, and a profession. Psychologists use many different methods and procedures to study mental processes and behavior and focus on a variety of problems. This means that Psychology is a very diverse discipline, ranging from the neuroscientist who studies brain behavior to the industrial/organizational psychologist who studies the behavior of organizations. Psychologists formulate and test theories, using research and statistical methods, in an effort to understand, predict, and influence behavior. As a profession, psychology is dedicated to solving human societal problems. 

There are over 50 faculty in the Michigan State University's Department of Psychology. These faculty are at the forefront of psychology research. Their primary areas of research span across six main areas of Psychology. They have expertise in the sub-disciplines of Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Science, Cognitive, Ecological/Community, Industrial/Organizational, and Social/Personality Psychology. Many of our faculty research across Psychology disciplines and outside of the field. 

 As undergraduates in Psychology, students will have the opportunity to engage within the classroom, conduct research with top faculty in the field, and expand their educational experience into the community.  Students can make the most of their degree by getting involved!