Welcome to the Psychology major! After your major declaration is approved, use the steps below to plan your path through the major. 

1. Read the Psychology Handbook and major requirements

Start by reviewing the Psychology Undergraduate Handbook and the Psychology major requirements. Make sure you understand the overall structure of the major, including distribution courses, statistics, electives, and the empirical research requirement 

2. Review your Psychology worksheet

Check your Psychology major worksheet and audit in Path@Penn. Path@Penn sometimes places courses in the wrong category. If something looks wrong, bring it to Psychology advising, and we can help. 

3. Plan your statistics course early

All Psychology majors must complete an approved statistics course. Statistics is also a prerequisite for the empirical research requirement, so students are encouraged to complete statistics by their sophomore year, when possible.

4. Think ahead about research

All Psychology majors must complete one semester of empirical research. Students usually fulfill this requirement in one of two ways: by taking an approved 4000-level Research Experience course or by completing faculty-supervised Mentored Research through PSYC 4998 (or 4999, if in the honors program). Research Experience courses are not offered every semester and may require permission or an application, so students should plan ahead and review available options before Advance Registration.

5. Consider whether honors might be right for you

Students interested in Honors should review the Honors Program requirements early. The Honors Program involves a year-long senior thesis project, and students typically apply in the spring of their junior year.

6. Talk with your advising team whenever you need guidance

You do not need to wait until something is urgent to ask for help.

Psychology Advising can help with questions about the Psychology major, including major requirements, distribution courses, research options, honors, worksheet issues, and planning for Advanced Registration.

For College-wide requirements and policies, please consult your College advisor. This includes questions about general education requirements, graduation timing, early graduation, total course load, etc.

When in doubt, start with Psychology Advising for Psychology major questions and your College advisor for College requirements.