Majoring in Psychology

The Psychology Degree

Psychology is the scientific and systematic study of behavior from a variety of perspectives. Through examination of the interaction among environmental and internal forces acting on human development and functioning, students gain a better appreciation of themselves and others. Courses are oriented to theoretical, research, and applied considerations.

Additionally, psychology majors have the option to design their course of study to pursue one of three concentrations in the field: child and family studies, developmental disabilities, or forensic psychology. The concentration in child and family studies is intended for those who anticipate working with children in non-educational settings and those intending to pursue graduate studies in areas related to services for children. The concentration in developmental disabilities prepares psychology majors for entry-level positions, working with individuals who exhibit mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. The concentration in forensic psychology prepares students who want to work in legal areas.

Emphasis is placed on research methodology and formal communication skills consistent with the scientific basis of the field. Majors are encouraged to develop independent thought by participating in research projects and other investigatory work. The program provides a solid background for graduate study leading to careers in such applied areas as clinical, school and counseling psychology, teaching, and research.

Learn more about majoring in Psychology at Keuka College.

Psychology Internships & Field Periods

Students working toward a psychology degree at Keuka College must complete a 140-hour internship each year—we call this Field Period.

Here's where some of our psychology students have recently done their Field Periods. All of these organizations have indicated they'd be interested in hosting Keuka students in the future.

Action for a Better Community/New Direction
Rochester, N.Y.
Ameriprise Financial
Penn Yan, N.Y.
Annie's Ark Childcare Center
Livonia, N.Y.
ARC Otsego
Oneonta, N.Y.
Arnot Ogden Medical Center
Elmira, N.Y.
Auburn Correctional Facility
Auburn, N.Y.
Baker Victory Services
Lackawanna, N.Y.
Benchmark Family Services
Watertown, N.Y.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lycoming County
Williamsport, Pa.
Broome Development Center
Binghamton, N.Y.
Camden Central School District
Camden, N.Y.
Camp Mark 7
Old Forge, N.Y.
City of Corning, Parks and Recreation
Corning, N.Y.
Dundee Youth Center
Dundee, N.Y.
Eckerd Drug
Canandaigua, N.Y.
Florida States Attorney's Office
Tallahassee, Fla.
GATE Anger Management and Counseling
Geneva, N.Y.
Geneva City School District
Geneva, N.Y.
Hillside Family Agencies
Romulus, N.Y.
Horseheads Central School District
Horseheads, N.Y.
Hutchings Psychiatric Center
Syracuse, N.Y.
Jefferson County Probation Office
Watertown, N.Y.
Jordan - Elbridge Central School District
Jordan, N.Y.
Lakeview Mental Health Services Inc.
Geneva, N.Y.
Livingston County Sheriff
Geneseo, N.Y.
New Visions Counseling & Consultation Svcs.
Auburn, N.Y.
Oswego County Department of Social Services
Mexico, N.Y.
Oswego County Sheriff's Department
Oswego, N.Y.
Pathways, Inc.
Corning, N.Y.
Regional School District #19
Storrs, Conn.
Rome Police Department
Rome, N.Y.
Salvation Army Halfway House
Elmira, N.Y.
South Lewis Central School
Turin, N.Y.
Stewart's Shop
Lowville, N.Y.
The House of the Good Shepard
Utica, N.Y.
Vera House
Syracuse, N.Y.
Wellness G.I.F.T.S.
Bath, N.Y.
West Genesee Central School District
Camillus, N.Y.
Whitney Point Daycare and Preschool
Whitney Point, N.Y.
YMCA of Greater Rochester
Rochester, N.Y.

What Can I Do with a Psychology Degree?

With a Psychology degree, you can find a career in the following:

  • Admissions Counselor
  • Alcohol/Drug Counselor
  • Career Counselor
  • Case Worker
  • Child Care Worker
  • Child Protection Worker
  • Community Relations Officer
  • Crisis Intervention Counselor
  • Director of Volunteer Services
  • Events Coordinator
  • Family Service Worker
  • Gerontologist
  • Group Home Coordinator
  • Guidance Counselor
  • Human Resources Professional
  • Mental Health Specialist
  • Probation/Parole Officer
  • Psychiatrist
  • Psychologist
  • Public Relations Manager

Average Annual Salary

$32,130 (substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors), $32,960 (mental health counselors), $34,820 (child, family, and school social workers), $54,950 (counseling, clinical, and school psychologists), $45,570 (educational, vocational, and school counselors), $173,922 (general psychiatrist), $43,830 (public relations specialists), $41,190 (employment, recruitment, and placement specialists) Occupational Outlook Handbook, May 2004

Field Periods in Psychology

Adriana Riano Adriana Riano ’08 Psychology Therapy Intern at Action for a Better Community/New Direction
Jane Palmer Jane Palmer ’10 Psychology Assessment Coordinator at Keuka College TeamWorks! Adventure Program

Field Period & Internship News

See how exciting a Field Period actually is. Check out these headlines about Keuka students' recent Field Periods & internships.