Psychology Department

Overview

A rich scientific study that examines questions about human and animal behavior and mental processes using psychological theories and scientific methods. Students work closely with faculty on research projects (all laboratory facilities are designed to be used by students), and apply their developing skills in practice, working with clients and organizations in the local community.

Psychology Major: Provides a thorough background in the fundamentals and methods of psychology, and explores a variety of specialized topics including behavioral neuroscience, developmental psychology, counseling, and many others.
Psychology Minor: Complements and nuances the expertise of students pursuing a variety of majors in both sciences and humanities.

Faculty Research Professor Stephanie Madsen on researching imaginary athletes, the psychology of play

Stephanie Madsen, professor of Psychology, published a study on the phenomenon of imaginary athletes, inspired by her class The Power of Play. In this Q&A, Madsen shares how psychology and play intersect, plus how she teaches students to make real-world connections.

Read "Professor Stephanie Madsen on researching imaginary athletes, the psychology of play"

Q&A with Psychology Professor Maggie McDevitt

What do you hope students take away from your courses?: I hope students are inspired and empowered to use what they learn to make their lives better. Psychology trains you to think critically, which never stops being useful. I want students to see that so much of what they learn will continue to benefit them after they graduate — not just the content, but also the skills and life lessons they pick up along the way. I also hope my classes feed students’ curiosity, so they will keep learning and growing.; Read the full Q&A.

Student Spotlights

Alumni Spotlight Class of 2022: Kassidee Wright

Kassidee Wright is confident in her path after completing two capstone projects for her dual degree in Psychology and Communication — a combination she was glad to find was easy to pursue at a liberal arts college. Determined to have a career as a counselor, she will be completing McDaniel’s master’s program in School Counseling. Having traveled to Paris for Jan Term and interned at the Boys and Girls Club of Westminster, Kassidee gained plenty of professional experience both locally and internationally.

Read "Class of 2022: Kassidee Wright"

Senior Spotlight Class of 2023: Dylan Hughes Get to Know a Green Terror

Dylan Hughes, Psychology major and Chemistry minor, zeroed in on the pre-med track, taking part in hands-on medical internships and research that have prepared him for medical school. A transfer student, Dylan discovered his strong leadership skills on the Hill as a Writing Center tutor and founder of the Chess Club.

Read Dylan's full profile.

Meet Graduates of the Psychology Department

We're proud to call these recent graduates alumni, and prouder still to share a selection of their stories here – told as only they can tell them, in their own words.

Ella Tomkins
Class of 2023 / Psychology, Sociology

Kassidee Wright
Class of 2022 / Psychology, Communication

Abby Hernandez
Class of 2020 / Psychology, Spanish

Aaron White
Class of 2021 / Psychology

Meet McDaniel: Profiles from the Hill

Five-year B.A. to M.S. in Counseling Jump-start your career at McDaniel.

Earn your Psychology bachelor's degree and a master's in Clinical Mental Health or School Counseling in as little as five years at the institution you know and love.

Accelerated pathways at McDaniel allow you to propel your career forward in less time, with less cost.

Learn how the pathways work.

Connect With Us

Dr. Jack Arnal

Department Chair