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Learn More About the Department of Psychology

Please note that Dr. Joshua Swift is the current Department Chair.

About the Department of Psychology at ISU

Welcome to the Department of Psychology at Idaho State University! We are committed to the scientific study of the mind and behavior, covering a broad range of topics from brain function and perception to personality and social behavior. Our department offers a variety of psychology programs and degrees that provide students with a comprehensive education in psychological research, mental health studies, and understanding human behavior.

At the undergraduate level, our psychology programs emphasize the importance of liberal arts education and personal development. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, gain competence in scientific research methods, psychometric principles, and data analysis. They explore various domains of psychology, developing a well-rounded view of the field and its significance in understanding behavior. Our program also fosters an appreciation for individual and cultural differences and ethical principles in decision-making.

Our psychology courses delve into fascinating topics such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, clinical psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience. Through engaging coursework, students have the opportunity to explore human behavior and mental processes, gaining valuable insights into the complexities of the mind. Our faculty members, who are experts in their respective areas, provide guidance and mentorship to students, ensuring a high-quality education.

The Department of Psychology at Idaho State University offers numerous research opportunities. Under the guidance of our faculty, students can engage in cutting-edge research, contributing to the advancement of psychological knowledge. These research experiences enhance students' understanding of research methodology, experimental design, and critical thinking skills. Our faculty members have expertise in various areas of psychology, including clinical psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience. Their dedication to both research and teaching ensures that students receive a well-rounded education and have access to the latest advancements in the field.

For graduate students, our doctoral program in Clinical Psychology focuses on producing competent practitioners who integrate research and theory from diverse areas of psychology into evidence-based practice. We strive to provide excellence in clinical training, psychological science, ethical practice, and cultural awareness and humility. Our program is accredited by the APA Commission on Accreditation, ensuring that our training meets national professional standards.

In addition to clinical psychology, our doctoral training in Experimental Psychology provides students with education and research training in core areas of psychological science. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty mentors in their areas of interest, allowing for individualized courses of study and research. Our program prepares students for both academic and non-academic careers, providing them with a solid foundation in psychology and expertise in their research areas.

We are proud of our students and alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of psychology. Whether you are a prospective student, current student, or an alum, we invite you to explore our website to learn more about our psychology programs, faculty, research opportunities, and the vibrant community we have built at Idaho State University's Department of Psychology. Together, we strive to advance our understanding of the human mind, promote mental health, and make a positive impact in the field of psychology.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Psychology Department is to conduct research and provide education and services within the area of psychology. Our research programs advance psychological knowledge and apply this knowledge to address real-world issues. We provide education at the baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral levels, with the goals of teaching psychological concepts, scientific methods, professional skills, an awareness of and appreciation for diversity, critical thinking, and effective written and oral communication. We serve the profession and community by applying our expertise to improve individual and collective well-being.

ISU Department of Psychology’s Commitment to Ethical Practices and Collegiality

As members of the ISU Psychology Department, we are united in our commitment to the discipline of psychology. We follow the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct as guidelines to ethical practices in teaching, research, and clinical work: https://www.apa.org/ethics/code/. We also adhere to Idaho State University’s Code of Ethics and Conduct Policy: https://www.isu.edu/media/libraries/general-counsel/Compliance-Code-of-Ethics-and-Conduct.pdf

We recognize that a well-functioning academic community includes relationships built upon collegiality, trust, and honesty, including but not limited to relationships among students and faculty, researchers and participants, clients and therapists, and scientists and the public. To maintain trust, we strive to present ourselves, our research, our practice, and our discipline with integrity. 

Consistent with APA, we respect the dignity, worth, and rights of all people. We recognize and respect cultural, individual, and role differences, such as on age, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, etc. We also aim to appreciate cross-discipline perspectives in psychology by considering differing theoretical perspectives. We further endeavor to limit the effects of bias in our immediate environment by attempting to reduce potential bias when we see it.

Diversity Statement

Consistent with the accreditation standards of the American Psychological Association the Department of Psychology at ISU is committed to creating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and faculty. We strive to treat everyone with respect and dignity. Diversity in all its forms (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status, national origin, socioeconomic status, neurodiversity, political orientation, and body diversity) is essential to achieve our mission, namely conducting research and providing education and services within the area of psychology. We aim to recruit and retain qualified students, staff, and faculty, including members of marginalized groups. We are committed to incorporating the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in our work.

We are committed to eliminating all forms of discrimination, harassment, and oppression. We stand in solidarity against hate-related incidents. Our commitments are reflected in our education, research, advocacy, and services.

Program Highlights

  • Idaho's only APA-Accredited Clinical Psychology PhD program
  • Idaho's only Experimental Psychology PhD program
  • Diverse faculty with research interests covering various areas
  • Opportunities for undergraduate students to work in research labs
  • Inclusion in clinical practicum teams
  • Minor in Applied Behavior Analysis with promising job prospects for Bachelor's degree holders

Employment Opportunities

  • Local developmental disability companies
  • Applied Behavior Analysis
  • Internship opportunities with organizations such as the City of Pocatello, United Way, Idaho National Laboratories, and Access Point
  • Potential for careers in medical professions including hospitals and Veteran's Affairs
  • Marketing
  • Research

Practical Experience and Skill Development

  • Hands-on training in clinical psychology and experimental psychology
  • Exposure to diverse research methodologies and approaches
  • Access to real-world settings through internships and collaborations
  • Development of essential skills for working in the psychology field

Find Your Roar with the Department of Psychology at ISU

We at the Department of Psychology are committed to providing outstanding education and promoting a deep understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and psychological research.

Our department offers a diverse range of programs and opportunities for those interested in psychology, whether you're pursuing a career in the field or simply want to explore the fascinating world of the human mind.

Idaho State University's psychology department offers comprehensive programs and degrees tailored to the diverse interests and career goals of our students. From undergraduate programs to graduate degrees, our faculty members, who are experts in their respective fields, bring extensive knowledge and experience to the classroom, ensuring a high-quality education that prepares students for success in various psychology-related fields.

Delving into topics such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, clinical psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience, our engaging coursework provides students with valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior and mental processes. Through hands-on learning experiences, students actively participate in psychological research projects, gaining practical skills that benefit their future careers.

Our department also offers abundant research opportunities, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge research guided by our expert faculty. These experiences deepen students' understanding of psychological principles and equip them with essential skills in research design, data analysis, and critical thinking. Graduates from Idaho State University's psychology program are well-prepared for a range of career prospects in counseling, social work, human resources, research, and academia.

We invite prospective students, current students, and alumni to explore our website and discover more about our psychology programs, faculty, research opportunities, and the vibrant community we have cultivated at Idaho State University's Department of Psychology. Whether you're seeking to understand human behavior, promote mental health, or make a positive impact in the field of psychology, we are here to support your journey.

B.A./B.S.

Also available online

Minor

Also available online

ABA Minor

Also available online

M.S.

Students enrolled in the Clinical and Experimental Psychology doctoral programs earn a Master's of Science in Psychology as they work towards their doctorate, for course work completed along the way. This is not a stand-alone Master of Science in Psychology program.

Ph.D. Clinical Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology program builds on the Master of Science in Psychology, requiring additional coursework, clinical practica, and research. The program ensures comprehensive training in clinical psychology through rigorous academic, practical, and research components.

Ph.D. Experimental Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Experimental Psychology program at ISU requires completion of the Master of Science in Psychology. The program emphasizes rigorous research development and culminates in a public presentation of the dissertation findings.