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Why Study Psychology at UMF?
UMF 's high quality liberal arts program makes it an ideal place to
study psychology. In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to get
hands-on experience by participating in research, internships, and
appropriate work initiatives or work study programs. These opportunities,
both on and off campus, help integrate classroom ideas with real-world
experiences. These practical experiences coupled with the academic strength of our
faculty make psychology a very productive major at UMF. Our graduates thrive in
a variety of contexts. UMF psychology graduates have gone on to advanced
study to become therapists, professors, researchers, school counselors,
lawyers, and consultants, to name but a few fields. Majoring in psychology at UMF
will give you the background and experience needed to progress toward a
rewarding career in a variety of professions.
Your Psychology Major
Psychology is a popular liberal arts major at UMF as well as an area of
concentration for students in related disciplines. The Psychology Department
at UMF offers a diverse range of coursework and opportunities. Whether your
goal is to pursue graduate study, work in the social service field after
earning your bachelor's degree, or get a solid liberal arts degree
applicable to many fields, the psychology major at UMF is an excellent
choice.
The Psychology Department at UMF is committed to providing flexibility
and opportunity through a strong undergraduate experience. Since
students are attracted to the study of Psychology for a number of reasons,
you will notice that there are few specific courses required for the major.
In consultation with your academic advisor, you will select the
coursework that will propel you toward your own unique goals. In
addition to a plan specifically developed with your advisor, the Psychology
Department at UMF has identified three general tracks to help match
your educational experience to your career goals.
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- I. Liberal Arts Education - A degree in a Liberal Arts field, such as
Psychology, is a solid choice for a well-rounded education that can be
applied to a variety of work settings. The value of a Liberal Arts
education has been well documented in business, education, and public
service communities, to name but a few. An undergraduate degree in Psychology is valuable preparation for living in and
thriving in today's society.
- II. Social Service Professions - A degree in
Psychology is excellent undergraduate preparation for pursuing careers
as well as advanced study in the helping professions. Most mental
health professionals need at least Masters' degrees to become licensed
or certified. However, a degree in Psychology provides the
necessary knowledge and skill bases to apply for advanced study.
Students may pursue field experiences and internships that allow them to
try out their skills and clarify their aspirations. Many of our
Psychology graduates have gone on to pursue graduate degrees in social
work, counseling, law, or psychology. For those not interested in
pursuing graduate study, UMF's Department of Psychology provides the
necessary coursework for certification as a Mental Health
Rehabilitation Technician --Community. The MHRT-C certification allows persons to work in the social service
professions at a pre-professional level. Though the MHRT-C is
Maine specific, the coursework and skills would help students to pursue
similar positions in other states as well.
- III. Research and Academia - Students who are attracted to
research or wish to eventually teach at the college level may consider
pursuing a doctoral degree in Psychology. Within the UMF
undergraduate Psychology program, students have the opportunity to work
collaboratively with the Psychology faculty and fellow students in
designing and conducting research and presenting their findings at
state, regional, and national conferences. These research
opportunities and research-based coursework prepare students for
graduate research within their advanced degree programs in Psychology or
related disciplines.
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