• 1.1 Describe key concepts, principles, and theories in psychology.
  • Indicator 1.1a Use psychological concepts to explain and predict behavior with sensitivity to the limitations of that knowledge.
  • Indicator 1.1b Interpret behavioral phenomena at an appropriate level of complexity.
• 1.2 Develop a working knowledge of psychology’s major subfields.
  • Indicator 1.2a Compare and contrast psychology’s major subfields.
  • Indicator 1.2b Justify preferences for different theoretical orientations in psychological science based on perceived advantages and limitations.

• 2.1 Use statistics to evaluate quantitative research findings
  • Indicator 2.1a Apply the appropriate use of descriptive and inferential statistics to a specific research design.
  • Indicator 2.1b Communicate research findings using data visualizations.
• 2.2 Exercise scientific reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena
  • Indicator 2.2a Develop plausible behavioral explanations that use scientific reasoning.
  • Indicator 2.2b Implement strategies to minimize the influence of common fallacies in thinking that impair accurate research conclusions and predictions.

• 3.1 Employ ethical standards in research, practice, and academic contexts.
  • Indicator 3.1a Demonstrate the use of ethical principles in research, practice, and academic contexts as well as everyday life.
  • Indicator 3.1b Apply ethical principles to dilemmas that psychologists encounter in practice situations.
• 3.2 Develop and practice interpersonal and intercultural responsiveness.
  • Indicator 3.2a Articulate the value of and seek opportunities to interact sensitively with people of diverse abilities, backgrounds, and cultural perspectives.
  • Indicator 3.2b Identify and implement ways to reduce racism and other discriminatory beliefs and practices.

• 4.1 Write and present effectively for different purposes.
  • Indicator 4.1a Construct arguments clearly and concisely from evidence-based psychological concepts and theories.
  • Indicator 4.1b Develop ideas in formats to fit a complex project’s purpose and length.
• 4.2 Provide evidence of psychology information literacy.
  • Indicator 4.2a Accurately summarize complex ideas from psychology sources and research.
  • Indicator 4.2b Evaluate psychological information based on the currency, reliability, validity, and generalizability of sources.

• 5.1 Develop direction for life after graduation.
  • Indicator 5.1a Refine academic and career plans based on sources which might include self-assessment of abilities, feedback from others, achievements, motivation level, and work habits.
  • Indicator 5.1b Gain experience and develop skills in activities that strengthen preparation for job entry or graduate school admission.

• 6.1 Communication: Apply strategies to evaluate messages, verify claims, and produce arguments supported by well-researched evidence.
• 6.2 Critical thinking: Demonstrate the ability to delineate a problem, acquire and evaluate evidence, and reach conclusions through critical reasoning.
• 6.3 Personal and Social Responsibility: Develop intercultural reasoning and intercultural competence to achieve ethical reasoning and solutions.

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Our tuition and fees are among the lowest in the region. If you are a New Mexico resident pursuing your first Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, you are eligible for free tuition! Check out our Student Costs page and learn how you can afford your education.

The psychology program at Western New Mexico University prepares students for a variety of career paths. Students who graduate with a bachelor degree in psychology may pursue graduate school or further training to become specialized in areas such as career or vocational counselor, school psychologist, professional counselor or therapist, forensic psychologist, sports psychologist, clinical Psychology, special education teacher, case manager, probation officer, and coach.

The WNMU Psychology program is a generalist program, covering a wide range of topics in psychology, including courses in the major subfields and many specialized areas. A minor is required of all psychology majors. Common choices for a minor include Criminal Justice, Chemical Dependency Counseling, Coaching, Counseling, Art, Sociology, and Political Science. The approach of a compact major paired with a minor related to your educational or career goals makes our program particularly attractive and practical to students. Students can complete their psychology degrees quickly and have the curriculum tailored to meet their needs.

Check out the Psychology Degree Programs page!

We have designated program advisors for every student. Book an appointment at the Advising Center with your program advisor to get your questions answered.

If you have specific questions about how to choose a major and would like to speak to a faculty, visit our Faculty & Staff page and reach out to one of us directly. We will get back to you as soon as we can.