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Department of Psychology Psychology
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Undergraduate Program

New & Prospective Students

We're thrilled that you're considering our department! Feel free to look around. 

We've tried to compile the most helpful resources specifically for you in our New & Prospective Students section. Of course, you may email us at ug-advisor-psyc-g@ucsd.edu if you have additional questions. 

Current Students

Learn more about our current academic and co-curricular programs, events, and resources; get help from an advisor; explore careers, and join Psi Chi/Psychology Club! Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and visit our YouTube Channel!

Advising

Visit our Advising page to learn more about meeting with an advisor, submitting paperwork that requires an advisor signature, and how to request authorization to enroll in a psychology course.

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The Psychology Major

The study of Psychology examines such issues as how the brain works, how society functions, how children learn, and how mental states influence the physical functions of our bodies. Many of today’s problems, including heart disease, pollution, and violence, are consequences of human behavior. Psychology offers students the tools to recognize, understand, and change these problems, as well as our attitudes toward them.

Our program reflects the diversity of the discipline as well as the interests of faculty and students. With courses ranging from neuropsychology to lifespan development, individuals and groups, and adaptive and maladaptive behavior, we provide a strong foundation for graduate and professional studies such as education, counseling, social work, clinical practice, business, and law. We encourage students to participate actively in faculty research, earn credit through internships, gain a global perspective through education abroad, and lay the foundation for future graduate study through participation in our departmental honors program.

Approximately 2,500 students per year major in Psychology at UC San Diego, and approximately 16,500 students take our courses during each academic year. With a Psychology degree, students can pursue graduate studies in psychology and its related fields, or they may start a career requiring a good understanding of people, such as advertising, industrial or human relations, social work, or teaching. Psychology-related careers include research, psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, and psychiatry.