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Why Study Psychology?

As a cadet, why should I major in Psychology? Well, why not? In the words of a recent grad, “The Psychology program has awesome instructors and they care about our success and development.” (Brandon Knox, ’07).

Consider that leaders thrive when they can explain, predict and influence behavior. To lead successfully, you need to know what makes people "tick," and that includes understanding yourself. Psychology majors master the intellectual skills this task requires. People and human nature are the subject matter in Psychology. The program provides a firm foundation on which to build as you continue to develop as a leader throughout a lifetime.

What Kinds of Things Will I Study or Learn?

Leaders teach, train and counsel. Good Teaching and training enhance proficiency and build the self-confidence necessary to confront difficult tasks. Sensitive and insightful counseling insures discipline, lifts morale and promotes the cohesion essential to keep going under the most stressful conditions.

The Psychology Program will help you acquire these skills. You will start by learning how to frame questions, generate alternative solutions, gain information and make decisions. You will then learn how people learn and develop; finally, you will use this knowledge to learn how to help others develop and become more effective in their service to the nation.

"A feature that I should like very much to see included in the curriculum
at West Point is a course in Psychology. Too frequently we find young
officers trying to use....ritualistic methods in the handling of individuals.
I think that both theoretical and practical instruction along this line could...
awaken the majority of cadets to the necessity of handling human problems
on a human basis and do much to improve leadership in the Army at large."

~ General Dwight D. Eisenhower ~

Psychology Coursework

Cadets can find specific course information on this and all our majors on the Cadet Web.

Take the following eight courses (in addition to the USMA Core Cirriculum) :

PL361 - Research Methods	PL376 - Abnormal Psychology
PL373 - Life Cycle & Human Development	PL387 - Foundations of Counseling
PL383 - Social Psychology	PL488B - Colloquium in Psychology
PL392 - Cognitive Psychology	PL476 - Educational Psychology

Foriegn Language:

LX300 - 3rd Semester F.L.

LX400 - 4th Semester F.L.

Electives:

Choose two from a wide variety of choices. We’ll work with you to tailor electives that enhance your academic development and inspire you to achieve your goals.

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