For over sixty years, the Psychology programs at CGU have trained psychologists for positions in research, teaching, and administrative capacities in academic institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private-sector businesses. 

The overarching theme of Psychology at CGU blends social concern with psychology theory and methods.  In 1969, the program undertook a pioneering effort to develop and promote application-oriented psychology. Since then, the application of social science knowledge, concepts, and methods to social issues and social systems through research and practice has become a central theme. Training emphasizes three primary components:

• Development of methodological skills for collecting and analyzing information in field settings
• Scholarly work organized around psychological and social concepts relevant to social issues and social organizations
• Practical experience in government agencies, public interest organizations, human service agencies, or significant business and industrial settings

Within the broad framework of a chosen area of concentration in psychology, students work closely with faculty to plan their programs and to identify the skills, experiences, studies, and achievements appropriate to their specific career interests and goals. As students progress in their graduate education, they are expected to become increasingly independent in their professional decisions and responsibilities. Faculty undertake advising as a primary responsibility, providing systematic and informal communication throughout the advising relationship.  All psychology faculty collaborate on an annual review of each student’s progress through the program.

The program’s instructional team is comprised of CGU faculty and graduate faculty from other Claremont Colleges. Faculty contribute a wide range of substantive interests and specialized competencies. Students are encouraged to make use of the different faculty members and specialized competencies.

CGU facilities provide space and equipment for psychological research and training including several labs in the Academic Computing Building. Additionally, the department’s faculty houses contain various research labs and centers. Students are also encouraged to conduct off-campus research in natural or field settings relevant to their interests. 

Interfield and Dual Degrees

Work in psychology may be combined with studies in another field for an interfield degree (one degree) or dual degrees (two degrees in different disciplines). The Psychology program supports dual degree combinations involving Psychology and a master’s degree in Business Administration, Information Science, Public Policy, or Human Resource Management. Other combinations may be possible but must be arranged on an individual basis. Students who wish to enroll in a dual degree program with another department must make arrangements for the program within their first semester at CGU.  Approval for admission to multiple programs must be obtained from each program. Additional information is available in the Policies and General Information Bulletin.

Dean:  Tiffany Berry

https://www.cgu.edu/people/tiffany-berry/
tiffany.berry@cgu.edu