|
Mission Statement
The mission of the Psychology Department at Cal
State San Marcos is to provide excellence in undergraduate and graduate
education in the science of psychology. We affirm the definition of
psychology as the scientific study of behavior in both humans and
animals. Psychology covers a wide range of topics in behavior, from the
inner workings of the brain and body to the ways social environments
exert their influences.
Our degree program emphasizes psychology as an
empirical science and the development of skills that include written and
oral communication, computer literacy, quantitative and qualitative
research methods, critical analysis of complex problems, knowledge of
human behavior and characteristics, increased self-understanding, and
insight into the behavior of others. We believe that multicultural
perspectives are integral to the study of human behavior.
Central to fulfilling our instructional mission is
a faculty composed of excellent teachers who are active scholars.
Psychology faculty members regularly contribute to scientific knowledge
in their respective fields, in both basic and applied research areas.
Active collaboration with students is an important
feature of our scholarship and pedagogical practice. We fulfill our
mission by immersing students in the psychological laboratory, in order
to master the skills in critical thinking, research methods, and
communication that are necessary for the scientific study of behavior.
We define the psychology laboratory broadly, including on-campus
research environments and field research sites in the local community
(hospitals, clinics, educational settings, community service
organizations, business and industry, and zoological parks). Field
experiences forge strong ties between the Psychology Department and the
region, and serve our mission for student community involvement.
The psychology major prepares students for careers
in a variety of psychology-related settings including research
laboratories, mental health agencies, hospitals, academic institutions,
business, industry, and public organizations. Our students are also
well-prepared for graduate training in fields such as experimental,
clinical, and counseling psychology, teaching, social work, medicine,
law, business and management, and public administration. The structure
of our program and the specific experiences, knowledge and skills
promoted prepare our students for the tasks and challenges they will
face in the broader community.
|
