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Welcome to the Stony Brook Undergraduate Department of Psychology!


Whether you're a prospective student, a new arrival, or continuing your studies as a psychology major, we’re excited to have you with us.

Psychology helps us understand the biological, cognitive, social, and clinical roots of behavior, thought, and emotion, along with the methods used to investigate them. Mastering psychological principles and evaluating research are essential skills in today’s rapidly evolving society.

Established in 1965, our department is one of the largest and most dynamic undergraduate programs at Stony Brook. We have a strong tradition of teaching and research excellence, with faculty recognized for their contributions at local, state, and national levels. Many faculty members are distinguished researchers, providing students with abundant opportunities for research and teaching.

photo of students' graduation caps from May 2024

Our undergraduate programs offer a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The B.S. program focuses on natural sciences and mathematics, while the B.A. provides a broader interdisciplinary approach. Both degrees equip you with foundational knowledge for graduate studies or careers in fields like medicine, education, law, management, business, marketing, and data science.

If you're unsure which degree path to choose, we encourage you to meet with one of our academic advisors. They can help you determine whether the B.A. or B.S. aligns best with your long-term goals.

During your time here, we encourage you to enhance your coursework by exploring a variety of opportunities. This may include participating in supervised research or internships, engaging in honors psychology, or serving as a teaching assistant. Whatever path you choose, the Department of Psychology is dedicated to preparing you for a range of career and graduate school options.

For answers to common questions, please check our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section. For specific inquiries about our undergraduate degree programs, visit our contact page.

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