York Psychology: Overview

Written by Stephanie Pugh and Matthew Tran

Do you have a passion for finding out what drives people’s decisions in social, developmental and biological perspectives? Is understanding human behaviour from all angles an intriguing subject for you? If so, then pursuing a major in Psychology at York University may be the perfect fit for you!

Want to know more about the York Psychology program? Continue reading and we’ll give you the run-down!

Reasons to choose Psychology at YORK U

Ranked 6th among Canada’s best university Psychology programs according to Maclean’s 2021 Program Rankings, York’s undergraduate programs (BA and BSc) offer the largest and most diverse selection of courses of any university in Canada!

They offer educational and research opportunities in all areas of psychology, including developmental and social psychology, clinical and counselling psychology, behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, history of psychology, statistics and quantitative methods, psychology writing, and critical thinking.

Here are some stand out qualities of the York Psychology program:

  • Their Specialized Honours Psychology Program (both BA and BSc) prepares students for graduate school by providing advanced instruction in research methodologies, statistical analysis, and guaranteed one-on-one thesis supervision.
  • They provide a large and diversified array of courses, both in the classroom and online. Evening and summer courses are available for working students who want to continue their education part-time!
  • The famous Centre for Vision Research, the LaMarsh Centre for Child and Youth Research, and the York University Psychology Clinic are just a few of the research centres where you may become involved.
  • Are you missing a math or science prerequisite? No worries! Bridging courses are available for those missing either a math or science prerequisite for entry to the BSc degree.

What Courses can you Take in the First Year?

In your first year, you’ll be expected to take introductory courses! Then as you move on with your degree, you can specialize into the subject area of Psychology that interests you the most!

Here are a few of the courses you can take in your first year:

  • Introduction to Psychology (PSYC 1010 6.0)
  • Techniques of Persuasion (MODR 1770 6.0)
  • The Future of Work (SOSC 1510 6.0)
  • Current Issues in Mental Health (SOWK 2035 3.0)

Career Options in Psychology

So, what can you do with a Psychology degree from York? Well, this list can provide an idea of the options graduates have and what York graduates have gone on to do! Some options are more directly associated with a Psychology degree than others:

Degree Requirements by Program

York offers several Degree Programs in the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health.  A description of each is provided below!

You can pursue a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree in any of these Degree Programs. Your Psychology course requirements remain the same, but additional course requirements will depend on which degree type (BA or BSc) you are pursuing.

  • Specialized Honours BA/BSC Psychology Major (120 Credits)

The Specialized Honours Psychology Program is a 120-credit degree programme for those interested in pursuing postgraduate study in psychology or a similar field. Students who complete this programme will have a broad understanding of psychology’s sub-disciplines and will be able to critically assess research findings and ideas.

Specialist training in research methodologies, statistical analysis, scientific communication, and critical thinking will be provided to students. Completion of a Specialized Honours Thesis under the direct supervision of a Psychology faculty member is a prerequisite of this programme. So this program is well suited for students who plan to pursue postgraduate studies in a research-intensive field.

Learn more about the Specialized Honours Major!

  • Honours BA/BSc Psychology Major (120 Credits)

The Honours in Psychology programme is a 120-credit degree programme for students who want to study psychology and apply what they’ve learned.

Through the interpretation of empirical results, students learn to engage in quantitative reasoning. Students will also exhibit an understanding of alternate approaches utilized in psychological research, as well as the ability to synthesis possibly contradictory data and explain these concepts to the broader public. A Double Major or a Major/Minor option is also available to students in this program. This program is well suited for students who intend to enter the workforce following graduation and/or who may intend to pursue postgraduate studies in professional and applied related fields of psychology.

Learn more about the Honours BA/BSc!

  • BA/BSc (90 Credits)

The Bachelor of Psychology is a 90-credit degree programme for individuals interested in learning about the foundations of modern psychology. Students will receive expertise in fundamental and specialty areas of psychology, as well as a basic comprehension of psychological research and writing, after completing this programme. This curriculum is ideal for individuals who want to finish a three-year university degree and then start working or seek a college credential after graduation.

Discover the Bachelor of Psychology!

How Do you Get into York Psychology?

Essentially, to be admitted into York Psychology, you must:

  1. Meet minimum admission requirements for York University
  2. Meet the program-specific requirements for the Psychology program you wish to take (BA or BSc)
  3. Know the application deadlines
  4. Submit your application
  5. Submit all required documentation

If you want a more in-depth explanation of what you need to get into York Psychology, in terms of admission requirements and grade requirements, then feel free to take a look at the other blog we wrote on How To Get Into: York Psychology!

Want advice with getting into York Psychology?

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