WUSTL's Psychology Major

Hi everyone, I am searching for colleges to apply to and I'm definitely leaning towards a psychology major. WUSTL is really capturing my interest lately. Would anyone who's been in this program at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) or knows somebody who is, be able to tell me more about it?

The Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) is quite distinguished. It's known for its blend of a solid foundation in the principles and theories of psychology, with an emphasis on active involvement in research.

Firstly, the curriculum is pretty comprehensive, with introductory courses in foundational subjects such as social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, as well as sociology. You'll also study quantitative techniques, which equips you with statistical understanding important for psychological research.

One of the standout features of the Psychology program at WUSTL is the strong encouragement of student involvement in research. Even in your first two years, you might find opportunities to participate in ongoing research conducted by faculty members, which can be a fantastic opportunity to apply what you're learning in classes to practical scenarios.

For advanced students, there are numerous opportunities for independent research and honors projects, which can be a significant advantage if you plan on pursuing a career in academia or research-based roles. There are also resources available for students interested in pursuing graduate school.

Remember that at WUSTL, you're not limited to just psychology courses. The flexible curriculum allows you to take electives outside of your major which could nicely supplement your studies - for example, courses in biology if you're interested in neuropsychology or in sociology if you aim to understand societal impacts on individual's behavior.

As for the faculty, they are eminent psychologists who are very active in their respective fields, maintaining labs conducting groundbreaking research. Many students speak highly of their willingness to mentor and help students.

Lastly, WUSTL's Psychology department also has various registered student organizations catering to mind/brain sciences that can provide additional learning and networking opportunities. These clubs often bring in guest speakers, organize field trips or workshops, and foster a tight-knit community for students with similar interests.

If you're interested in a real-world application of psychology along with research experiences, WUSTL could be a great fit for you.

Remember that where you go is not the only factor in a successful post-college career. It’s what you do wherever you end up that counts!