The Psychology program at College of DuPage teaches students how to apply psychological principles to every day life through the study of human and animal behavior. Many students take psychology courses to major in psychology, for general interest or to fulfill general education requirements.
COD offers an Associate in Arts degree in psychology for students who are interested in transferring to a four-year institution. Courses are transferable to all Illinois colleges and universities, as well as most institutions nationwide based on Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) standards. You can also secure an internship in the community and take advantage of service learning options.
Determine Your Path
Explore a range of psychology courses that can lead to a bachelor's degree, career enhancement or fulfill your personal achievements.
You want to attend a credible college that stands out from the rest. At COD, you'll discover:
- Dedicated instructors with years of professional experience.
- Affordable programs to help you achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining a savings account.
- Small class sizes that ensure you receive personalized attention.
- A variety of courses offered in different formats, including honors, independent study, online and hybrid.
- An opportunity to learn more about the field of psychology through Psi Beta Honor Society.
Psychology Transfer Pathway
The Psychology Transfer Pathway, Associate in Arts will prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or university.
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"I loved all of my professors. They were adamant and passionate about what they taught, while I never had to struggle to find a resource that could help me." - Lourdez Ardila
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"There is a lack of resources for the African and African American communities regarding mental health, and I want to bring forth research to help these people navigate their mental health." - Roselynne Njau
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"College of DuPage leveled the playing field for me. I came alone to an uncertain environment, but I was only judged by my hard work. COD is a place where students can become their best selves.” - Areeb Kidwai
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“I have learned so much from both my academic program and my campus involvement. I have learned the values of growth and leadership, as well as the value of guiding others through their own potential.” - Luis Medina
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"At COD, there are countless opportunities for you to build new connections and network with like-minded students." - Poonam Rahman
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The first step to getting started in Psychology is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
- Demonstrate familiarity with major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends.
- Understand and apply basic research methods in psychology.
- Understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
- Respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solving problems.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills (oral or written) for different purposes.
College of DuPage has several psychology transfer agreements in place with four-year colleges and universities to save you time, money and make the transfer process easier.
Many of these agreements with other colleges and universities have specific course requirements and a pre-determined course plan that needs to be followed to be eligible to transfer. Contact a program faculty member or academic advisor to learn more as course requirements vary by institution.
Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your frequently asked questions regarding the Psychology program.
Psychologists study the human mind and human behavior. Research psychologists investigate the physical, cognitive, emotional, or social aspects of human behavior. Psychologists in health services fields provide mental health care in hospitals, clinics, schools or private settings. Psychologists employed in applied settings, such as business, industry, government or nonprofit organizations, provide training, conduct research, design organizational systems and act as advocates for psychology.
No, students who apply and are admitted to College of DuPage can enroll directly into psychology classes.
Some psychology courses have prerequisites that must be completed before registration. Meet with an advisor if you have questions about course or transfer requirements.
No, psychology courses are an integral component of most occupational and pre-professional programs. COD offers more than 100 sections of its core Introduction to Psychology class and more than 400 total sections of psychology courses each year to fit your schedule. Courses completed at COD may be fully transferable, based on Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) standards.
Contact a psychology faculty member for scheduling and transfer guidance and information. You can also visit the course catalog to read psychology course descriptions.
