Psychology Major (HBSc)
Admissions Category: Psychological & Health Studies
Are you a prospective student applicant?
You can enter the to accelerate your career in a health care profession
Program Overview
Psychology examines how and why people think and act the way they do, with the ultimate goal of understanding and improving the human condition. The offers the opportunity to understand and further investigate into various areas of psychology: how humans learn, adapt, and remember; how they change over their lifetimes; how they are affected by the presence of others; and, how their behaviour relates to their physiological functions. The program provides an opportunity to study typical thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, through courses in the fields of Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Behavioural Neuroscience. Programs in Psychology and Mental Health Studies cannot be combined.
Complementary Programs:
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Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills
- Communication (oral and written)
- Interpersonal abilities
- Mediate and negotiate
- Knowledge of mental health issues
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Research
- Teamwork
- Planning/Organizing
- Problem-solving and reasoning
- Leadership
Careers for Graduates
- Psychologist
- Career Counsellor/Strategist
- Research Assistant in Hospitals
- Developmental Service Worker
- Child and Youth Worker
- Community Worker
- Human Resources Specialist
- Marketing Representative in Business Services
- Employment Consultant in Non-Profits
Further Education
- Psychology
- Clinical or Counselling Psychology
- Occupational Therapy
- Education
- Medicine
- Law
- ABA Behaviour Therapy
- Human Resources
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 1.0 credit from Intro Psychology courses: , .
- Explore different kinds of courses; this will also help with fulfilling breadth requirements and electives.
- Use and our program checklists to plan your future courses.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Get writing support at the .
- Apply to the Psychology Department鈥檚 Budding Scholars program.
- Apply to UTSC chapter of Psi Chi, the International Honour Society in Psychology.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
- Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Join the (PNDA) to connect with students in psychology; explore other student groups as well.
- Volunteer in the Alternative Reading Week to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development; visit Department of Student Life (DSL) for details.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Volunteer with organizations to expand your interests; check listings on (
- Attend the in September and register with to explore opportunities.
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 0.5 credit Laboratory Methods course: .
- 0.5 credit from Statistical Methods courses: or equivalent.
- Begin taking B-level Psychology credits; choose courses from both the 10-20 and 50-60 series.
- Use to plan your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Consider completing a Supervised Study course ].
- Further develop your general academic skills by attending workshops offered by the (AA&CC) and Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL).
Apply Theory to Practice
- Get involved in the Psychology & Neuroscience Undergraduate Journal Club to learn how to critically analyze scientific literature, and discuss articles with peers.
- Check out Global Research Abroad opportunities through the ISC to gain valuable international and research experiences.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Check (
- Complete the Global Citizenship Certificate; look into Global Learning opportunities such as the program and the Explore program through the International Student Centre (ISC).
Plan for Your Future Career
- Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via .
- Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
- Explore careers through the AA&CC鈥檚 and programs.
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- Continue taking B- and C-level PSY courses to meet the Breadth in Psychology and Additional Credits in Psychology requirements (check the for details).
- Use to ensure you are on track with your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Consider completing a Supervised Study course [].
- Consider competing for the UTSC Library , the NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards, and the U of T Excellence Award (UTEA).
Apply Theory to Practice
- Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, , DSL and the .
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Run for an elected position in the (PNDA).
- Take part in the Wellness Peer Programs in the Health & Wellness Centre to help foster a healthy community.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Plan a career path with a staff member at the
- Check for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
- Attend the in September.
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 0.5 credit in Psychology at the D-level.
- Complete the Breadth in Psychology and Additional Credits in Psychology program requirements.
- Ensure you have at least 2.0 credits in your program at the C-level or higher.
- Register your 鈥淚ntent to Graduate鈥 on by the deadline.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Consider completing a Thesis course []. Plan ahead to ensure you meet prerequisite requirements.
- Apply for a travel award through the DSL or Department of Psychology.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for relevant summer and full-time positions.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Participate in the AA&CC鈥檚 program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning to work or further education.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Attend the AA&CC鈥檚 job search conference in April/May.
- Attend the orientation for a job search 鈥渃rash course鈥 and for access to full-time job listings.
- Get your Personal Statement reviewed in the .