Psychology

Major & Minor

How do we think, feel, learn, love, and believe? How do biological, cognitive, and psychosocial processes influence development? How might we improve individual lives and help communities function better for everyone? If these questions intrigue you, study psychology at Bushnell University.

Here, we foster a strong knowledge base in psychology, develop abilities in scientific inquiry and critical thinking, and support faithful, real-world applications of your studies through a psychology-related internship. Growing your knowledge, skills, and abilities in psychology through a Christian lens provides a range of opportunities as a student and beyond.

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Why Choose Psychology at Bushnell?

The psychology major prepares students for careers in community and social services, as well as mental health and counseling. It’s also a great major for those interested in people-oriented fields like human resources, business, marketing, education, and ministry. With available concentration options, our personalized degree sets the foundation students need for career paths in corrections and law to behavioral neuroscience and medicine.

At Bushnell, we provide a rigorous, strong, and supportive psychology program, passionate and dedicated faculty, and an environment where students can thrive while exploring the fascinating field of psychology.

Our courses provide both essential core knowledge and learning relevant to student interests in psychology, and our elective courses and concentrations provide opportunities to study areas of particular and career interests. Our faculty offer individual support and personal care and connection that facilitates our students’ success.

General Psychology Major

The emphasis of the general psychology major is to equip students with a strong foundation in psychological science. Students will explore the scientific study of biological, social, and psychological factors; apply

psychology to everyday experiences; learn to read, think, and write critically; and consider psychological science from a Christian perspective. Graduates will be prepared for a wide range of careers across social services, business, education, and ministry, as well as graduate study in psychology and related disciplines (e.g., counseling, human relations, marketing, ministry).

FEATURED COURSES

Cross-Cultural Psychology
Vocational Exploration and Psychology
Human Development
Psychology of Learning
Social Psychology
Research Methods

Forensic Psychology Concentration

The Forensic Psychology Concentration within Bushnell’s Psychology B.S. program provides students with a foundation in the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system. This concentration equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in forensic assessment, criminal profiling, victim advocacy, and correctional psychology.

Students in this concentration complete 18 credits, with course options including:

  • PSY 315 Forensic Psychology (3)
  • PSY 495 Internship (3)

Choose six credits from the following:

  • CJ 330 Corrections in the 21st Century (3)
  • CJ 331 Law and Criminal Procedure (3)
  • CJ 340 Criminal Investigation (3)
  • CJ 353 Criminology (3)
  • CJ 420 Juvenile Justice System (3)
  • CJ 440 Victimology (3)

Choose six credits from the following:

  • PSY 211 Cross-Cultural Psychology
  • PSY 380 Theories of Personality
  • PSY 414 Psychology of Human Sexuality
  • PSY 430 Psychology of Addictive Behaviors
  • PSY 465 Introduction to Counseling Skills
  • PSY 475 Psychology of Trauma

Neuroscience Concentration

The Neuroscience Concentration within the Psychology, B.S. program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the biological foundations of behavior, with a specific focus on brain functions and neuropsychological processes. This concentration prepares students for careers in research, healthcare, and clinical settings, and provides a strong foundation for graduate study in neuroscience or related fields.

Students in this concentration complete 19 credits, with course options including:

  • PSY 391 Introduction to Neuropsychological Assessment (3)
  • BIOL 311/311L Human Anatomy and Physiology with a Lab (3,1)
  • BIOL 341 Bioregulation (3)

Choose three credits from the following:

  • PSY 414 Psychology of Human Sexuality (3)
  • PSY 430 Psychology of Addictive Behaviors (3)
  • PSY 475 Psychology of Trauma (3)
  • CJ 440 Victimology (3)

Choose three credits from the following:

  • BIOL 310 Genetics (3)
  • PSY 309 Philosophy of Mind (3)
  • PSY 440 Psychology of Religion (3)

Choose three credits from the following:

  • PSY 490 Research Practicum (1-6)
  • PSY 495 Internship (2-16)

Psychology without a Concentration

The Psychology without a Concentration pathway within the B.S. in Psychology program is designed for students seeking a broad and flexible foundation in psychology without committing to a specific concentration. This pathway allows students to explore various psychological theories, methods, and practices while tailoring their course selections to their interests and career goals.

Students in this pathway complete 18 credits, with course options including:

  • PSY 330 Psychology of Learning (3)
  • PSY 380 Theories of Personality (3)

Choose three credits from the following:

  • PSY 490 Research Practicum (1-6)
  • PSY 495 Internship (2-16)

Choose nine upper-division (300-499 courses) PSY credits:

  • PSY 309 Philosophy of Mind (3)
  • PSY 315 Forensic Psychology (3)
  • PSY 320 Human Development (3)
  • PSY 330 Psychology of Learning (3)
  • PSY 331 Psychology of Sport (3)
  • PSY 340 Social Psychology (3)
  • PSY 350 Research Methods (3)
  • PSY 370 Cognition (3)
  • PSY 380 Theories of Personality (3)
  • PSY 390 Behavioral Neuroscience (3)
  • PSY 391 Introduction to Neuropsychological Assessment (3)
  • PSY 414 Psychology of Human Sexuality (3)
  • PSY 420 Neurodiverse Psychology (3)
  • PSY 430 Psychology of Addictive Behaviors (3)
  • PSY 440 Psychology of Religion (3)
  • PSY 465 Introduction to Counseling Skills (3)
  • PSY 475 Psychology of Trauma (3)
  • PSY 490 Research Practicum (1-6)

Program Overview

In the psychology major, students can choose one of three paths for their Bachelor of Science degree: general psychology (onsite or online), a forensic psychology concentration (onsite or online), or a neuroscience concentration (onsite only). The three concentrations build on the core psychology curriculum with emphasis given to their specialty areas while continuing to explore psychological science from a Christian perspective.

Majors

  • General Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Neuroscience

Minors

  • General Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Criminal Justice

Program Objectives

Graduates of this program will:

  • Demonstrate a working knowledge base of psychology
  • Demonstrate scientific inquiry and critical thinking skills
  • Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological explanations and practices and adopt values
    that build community in a diverse world
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills in a variety of formats
  • Apply psychological knowledge, skills, and values in occupational pursuits
  • Apply Christian faith to an understanding of psychological science

Program Outcomes

National Exam Scores:

  • 77% of students (24/31) had a 73% or higher test average
  • 93% of students scored 73% or higher on research methods and biological psychology
  • 87% of students scored 73% or higher on human development, gender & sexuality
  • 57% of students scored 73% or higher on sensation & perception and learning
  • 69% of students scored 73% or higher on memory and thinking
  •  81% scored 73% or higher on social psychology, motivation, emotion and health
  • 65% scored 73% or higher on personality and psychological disorders

Highlighted Courses

Bushnell’s Psychology Program is distinct in that our students have access to a broad selection of psychology courses combined with a personalized experience. Seniors complete internships (PSY 495) where they gain hands-on, real-world experience related to their interests and areas of study. They also complete a senior capstone (PSY 499) to dive deeper into the empirical research in their chosen topic to better understand and apply it, culminating with a presentation of what they learned. Regardless of the focus you choose, be assured that our professors will guide you on a path that prepares you for your next steps, whether in the work world or graduate school.

PSY 315 Forensic Psychology

An introduction to psychological principles and the legal system. This
course includes, but is not limited to, topics such as evaluation and treatment of offenders, victim services, juvenile justice, family services and law, police psychology, risk assessment, and correctional
psychology.

PSY 440 Psychology of Religion

An introduction to empirical approaches in the study of religion from
the psychological perspective which includes studying the developmental, psychobiological, and cultural influences that affect beliefs and behaviors. Further, the roles of religion in psychopathology and well-being will be discussed. The course will be taught using a scientific foundation to understand religion.

 

Pre-Law Pathway

Bushnell University offers a pathway into the legal profession through its Pre-Law Pathway program. Designed to provide essential skills and personalized guidance, this flexible curriculum prepares you for the challenges of law school and the legal field. You can choose Psychology as your major to pursue pre-law, engaging in core courses such:

  • Argumentation and Debate
  • Logic and Critical Thinking
  • Introduction to Business and Entrepreneurship
  • Principles of Accounting I
  • Advanced Public Speaking
  • Communication and Conflict

To learn more, visit our Pre-Law Pathway webpage.

Beacon Points of Pride

  • 100% of traditional undergraduates students graduate with at least 135 hours of field experience
  • 190 company and school internship and field experience partners
  • The National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) reported a 100-percent pass rate for Bushnell students on the national exams (NCE & NCMHE) over the last year. Bushnell students score on average higher than the national averages on 12 of the 14 exam areas
  • According to EDsmart.org, a nationally recognized publisher of college resources and rankings, Bushnell University is ranked 2nd in the state of Oregon among fully accredited universities and colleges

Career Opportunities

Careers with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology include:

  • Human services case manager
  • Correctional treatment specialist
  • Child care worker
  • Parole and probation officer
  • Gerontology aide
  • Research and grant writer
  • Research assistant
  • Public relations specialist

Internship Sites

  • Family Faith and Relationship Advocates (FARA)
  • Eugene Mission
  • PeaceHealth
  • Cascade Hospice
  • Christians As Family Advocates (CAFA)
  • Family Development Center Douglass County Relief Nursery
  • CFD – Recovery Program
  • Looking Glass – (AYS)
  • Postpartum Support International
  • Eating Disorder Center of Eugene – Monte Nido

Life After Graduation

Our graduates pursue careers in health and medical services, law and law enforcement, ministry and church relations, social and human services, sport and fitness, business and sales, teaching and research, counseling and therapy, and more. Some pursue graduate school, completing masters and doctoral programs of various kinds.

Here is a sampling of graduate programs our graduates are enrolled at:

  • Bushnell CMHC
  • University of Oregon School of Business (sports marketing)
  • George Fox University School of Physical Therapy
  • George Fox University School of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Arizona State School of Social Work
  • Portland State University
  • University of Portland
  • University of Southern California, Rossier School of Education
  • Dankook University

Master of Counseling

This 60-credit hour program is offered in a hybrid format and is designed to be completed in 28 months. Some of your classes will be onsite during the evening hours and some will be offered online.

In addition to class time, students have an opportunity for direct client contact at Bushnell University’s operational onsite counseling clinic.

For more information, visit our Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health page.

Life at Bushnell

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Academic Catalog

Hear From Our Students

Slide 1
"The psychology program at Bushnell University significantly impacted me; it was my first experience and exposure to the formal research process. This opportunity and mentorship opened my eyes to the world of research and served as a catalyst for my career in academia. I was interested in working with people and finding a career that positively impacted my community."
-Linsey (Johnson) Belisle '14
Slide 2
"I chose to attend Bushnell because of the community. Everyone was so welcoming, and the faculty and staff genuinely care for all of the students. I decided Psychology was the path for me since I have always been intrigued with behavior and emotions. I am a critical processor and psychology deepens my understanding of the world and how to handle certain situations."
-Brooklyn Cahoon '24
Slide 3
"I chose to attend Bushnell University because I was interested in pursuing a degree in Psychology and I liked that it is a Christ-centered environment. I decided to choose the Psychology & Counseling department at Bushnell because I am interested in the mind in relation to behavior seeing as it benefits society and enhances our lives."
-Kirin Pannu '23
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Meet the Faculty

Erin A. Mueller, Ph.D. Program Faculty

“The Psychology program at Bushnell provides students the best of both worlds – a broad selection of Psychology courses combined with a personalized experience. Your professors come alongside you during your journey to guide you on a path that prepares you for your next steps, whether in the work world or graduate school.

Engaging courses, integration of faith, individualized research, hands-on experiences, and a fun and supportive community offer Bushnell Psychology students a unique undergraduate experience.”

Psychology Faculty

Erin Mueller, Ph.D.    Reed Mueller, Ph.D.    Alexandra Olsen, Ph.D.   Nani Skaggs, Ph.D.    Clare Steffen, Ed.D.