Minor in Psychology

Hours: 21 On-Campus Online

About

The Minor in Psychology at Fort Hays State University offers students an excellent opportunity to augment their major with a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles and human behavior. This program is perfect for students in various majors who wish to enhance their readiness for postgraduate careers or studies by understanding the cognitive and emotional processes that influence human action.

Students will benefit from a curriculum including fundamental psychological theories and current research, enabling them to effectively apply psychological concepts to real-world situations. Whether enrolled in on-campus or online classes, students receive the same quality education geared toward developing critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.

Why pursue a Minor in Psychology at Fort Hays State University?

Fort Hays State University's Minor in Psychology offers a versatile and integrative approach to psychological education, complementing various significant fields of study. The program leverages current research and innovative teaching methods to prepare students for diverse careers and advancements in their primary fields of study.

The program is particularly beneficial for students pursuing careers in education, healthcare, business, law, social work, and other fields where understanding human behavior is crucial. With a blend of theoretical and practical learning experiences, students are well-prepared to apply psychological principles in various professional settings.

Who is this program for?

The Minor in Psychology at Fort Hays State University suits students across various majors who want to enhance their understanding of human behavior. This program is designed to provide valuable insights that complement various career goals, offering a versatile skill set applicable in numerous fields. Students interested in the psychological aspects of their primary discipline or those considering graduate studies in psychology will find this program particularly beneficial. This program is suited for:

Students pursuing degrees in healthcare, education, business, law, or social work.
Individuals interested in enhancing their understanding of human behavior.
Students aiming for careers in human resources, marketing, or public relations.
Aspiring mental health professionals considering graduate studies.
Anyone seeking to improve their communication, critical thinking, and research skills.

Learning Outcomes

The Minor in Psychology at Fort Hays State University is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills that complement their primary field of study. This program emphasizes critical thinking, research proficiency, and applying psychological principles to real-world scenarios. Upon completing the minor, students will have a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and the ability to apply psychological concepts in various professional contexts.

Theoretical Knowledge

Students will develop a broad understanding of fundamental psychological theories and concepts, including cognitive, behavioral, and developmental psychology. This foundation allows them to analyze and interpret human behavior across various life stages and societal contexts.

Research Skills

Through courses like Research Methods and hands-on projects, students will learn to conduct, analyze, and interpret psychological research. They will gain proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, enabling them to evaluate scientific literature and conduct basic research critically.

Ethical Practice

Students will understand the ethical standards and guidelines governing the practice and research of psychology. This knowledge will help them identify and address ethical issues in psychological assessment, intervention, and research, ensuring they practice with integrity.

Communication Skills

The program emphasizes effective communication of psychological concepts, both orally and in writing. Students will learn to convey complex ideas clearly and professionally, whether presenting research findings, collaborating with colleagues, or interacting with clients.

Real-World Applications

The Minor in Psychology program at FHSU is designed to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world application. By engaging in research, students learn to analyze complex problems, an essential skill in any career. Applied learning opportunities through internships and case studies further enhance their ability to apply psychological concepts in practical settings.

Students gain hands-on experience that prepares them for professional roles that require psychological expertise. These experiences reinforce the theoretical knowledge gained in class and provide a competitive edge in the job market, equipping students with the skills to handle real-life challenges effectively.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying current with industry trends is a cornerstone of the psychology minor program at FHSU. The curriculum is continually updated to reflect the latest advancements in the field, including new research on human cognition, behavior modification techniques, and digital psychological assessments.

Faculty members actively participate in psychological research, bringing their insights and discoveries into the classroom. This ensures that students learn the most current content and practices, preparing them for success in graduate studies or diverse professional fields where psychological science is applied.

Hands-on Activities

FHSU provides numerous hands-on activities that enrich students' understanding and application of psychological principles. These include research projects, conference participation, and practical assignments that simulate real-world psychological assessments and interventions.

Students are encouraged to engage in experiential learning opportunities that help them build professional networks and gain insights into various psychological applications. These activities are designed to reinforce the theoretical knowledge acquired in courses and to foster skills in scientific inquiry and critical thinking.

What You’ll Learn:

Critical psychological theories and concepts
Application of psychology in various fields
Understanding human behavior and mental processes
Research methods in psychology
Critical thinking and analytical skills

How You’ll Learn:

Engage with both foundational and advanced courses
Participate in research projects and case studies
Collaborate with peers and faculty in interactive settings
Understand psychological assessments and tools
Online and in-person modalities to suit different learning preferences

Courses

The Minor in Psychology at Fort Hays State University provides a well-rounded curriculum designed to complement any major. Core courses include General Psychology, which introduces foundational principles, and Developmental Psychology, which explores human growth across the lifespan. Students can then delve into specialized areas like Abnormal Psychology to understand psychological disorders and Social Psychology to study the influence of society on behavior.

Students can customize their minor with electives such as cognitive psychology, which focuses on memory and problem-solving, or sensory processes, which examine perception. Other options like Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Sports Psychology provide insights into psychological factors that influence involvement and performance in sports, exercise, and physical education. This flexible curriculum ensures students develop a broad understanding of psychological principles and their real-world applications.

PSY 100: General Psychology

This course involves a survey of principles related to human and animal behavior. The focus will be on the evaluation of theories and methods of analyses, related research, and practical applications of principles of behavior.

PSY 315: Industrial Psychology

This course surveys psychological principles that apply to behavior in work situations and related issues such as selection decisions, appraisal, training, motivation, leadership, and job design. Experiential activity will provide a concrete related learning experience.

PSY 400: Child and Developmental Psychology

This survey course deals with the theoretical assumptions of why behavior changes occur during the individual's growth and development.

Discover the full Minor in Psychology course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

A Minor in Psychology from Fort Hays State University opens the door to various career opportunities by providing a solid understanding of human behavior. This minor can complement any primary major, equipping students with critical thinking, communication, and research skills highly valued in today's job market. Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in business, healthcare, education, and other fields where psychological knowledge is essential.

Human Resources Specialist

Human Resources Specialists apply psychological principles to the hiring process, employee training, and conflict resolution. They use their understanding of personality and behavior to assess candidates, manage employee relations, and create programs that enhance productivity and job satisfaction.

Marketing Analyst

Marketing Analysts utilize insights into consumer behavior to guide businesses in developing effective marketing strategies. Analyzing market trends and consumer preferences helps companies tailor their products and advertising to meet customer needs, boosting sales and brand loyalty.

Mental Health Technician

Mental Health Technicians support mental health professionals in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. They help monitor patient progress, conduct therapeutic activities, and provide emotional support, contributing to the overall treatment and care plan.

Case Manager

Case Managers work in social services, coordinating care for individuals in need, such as those dealing with mental illness, addiction, or homelessness. They assess clients' needs, develop care plans, and connect them with resources, advocating for their well-being throughout the process.

Research Assistant

Research Assistants in psychology assist with academic or industry research projects, collecting and analyzing data related to human behavior. They contribute to experimental design, literature reviews, and data interpretation, providing invaluable support to principal investigators.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,961.90* (on-campus) or $3,859.95* (online)* per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Related Programs

While the Minor in Psychology offers a robust and comprehensive curriculum, students may also be interested in exploring other related programs at Fort Hays State University. These programs align well with psychology and can complement the knowledge gained through the minor.

Bachelor of Arts/Science in Psychology
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Organizational Leadership
Certificate in Case Management
Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health
Certificate in Addictions Counseling
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Sociology
Bachelor of Science in Social Work
Minor in Health and Human Performance

FAQ

What are the benefits of a Minor in Psychology?

A Minor in Psychology enhances understanding of human behavior, making it beneficial for various career paths. It complements any major by providing insights into psychological principles. It prepares students for graduate studies or careers in healthcare, education, business, and law.

What are the required courses for a Minor in Psychology?

Students complete 21 credit hours for the Psychology minor. Students are required to complete General Psychology as well as various elective courses, such as Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Developmental Psychology.

What career options come with a Minor in Psychology?

With a Minor in Psychology, students can pursue roles such as Human Resources Specialist, where they apply psychological principles to hiring and employee relations. They may also become Marketing Analysts, utilizing insights into consumer behavior for market research, or Mental Health Technicians, supporting mental health professionals in treatment settings.

How does a Minor in Psychology compare to a Major?

This minor provides a broad understanding of psychological principles while complementing other majors. In contrast, a major offers more in-depth study, including advanced research and theory courses. Both provide valuable skills, but a minor requires fewer credit hours.

How does the program prepare students for real-world applications?

The program includes practical courses like Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Sports Psychology alongside opportunities for hands-on research, internships, and conference participation. It equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to various fields.

Information about the Department of Psychology

The Department of Psychology at FHSU offers innovative experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore psychology theory and understand the human mind. Committed to excellence in education and research, the department prepares students to contribute to local and global communities as knowledgeable citizens and lifelong learners. With award-winning faculty, the department provides high-quality education, fostering strong student-faculty relationships and offering meaningful internships through local partnerships.

Students engage in collaborative research, participate in scholarly activities, and gain practical experience in dedicated research labs and community settings. Graduates of the psychology programs are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers, having developed professional skills and a deep understanding of psychological science. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, on-campus and online, ensuring students receive the necessary support and resources to succeed.

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