We have 5 interrelated majors that offer diverse theoretical, research and applied subjects for students to explore. We have two bachelors of arts programs which offer specific theoretical and research oriented perspectives: Psychology—a clinically focused and research oriented degree path and Holistic Psychology—a major looking at integrated healing research and practice around the globe. We also have 3 applied bachelors of science programs considering the practice of psychology from the lenses of counseling, art therapy, and expressive arts therapy. Many of our students explore classes from across these disciplines and we offer a unique view of the field of psychological research and practice as we integrate neuroscience and the arts with research on childhood and cross-cultural psychology among other interdisciplinary areas to explore important social concerns such as homelessness, poverty and trauma. All of our faculty are clinicians or applied scientists so you will have access to mentoring by practitioners who can assist you in exploring the path you choose in these fields. All of our programs require internships, overseen by faculty, that give students job readiness advantages with knowledge, skills and ethics developed in professional fieldwork settings.
Students can minor in several areas related to the majors or specialize with internships in the settings related to their minor or a specialized track within their major. Students interested in adding extra value to their programs of study can minor in other areas which may relate to their interests for future graduate study or for professional work after Lesley such as a business minor for those who might want to prepare for running a mental health clinic someday or a biology minor for those who might want to pursue a related health careers path. Other minors our students often choose are global studies, women’s studies and social work.
The Bachelor degrees in these areas prepare you for graduate school, or for a variety of career paths. Our alumni attend graduate schools in areas such as counseling or clinical psychology, art therapy or expressive art therapy, neuroscience, social work, education, and nursing. Students may seek jobs as counselors, social workers, special education assistants, therapeutic aides in a variety of settings, market and survey researchers, recreation or rehabilitation associates, and human service specialists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, growth for mental health and substance abuse professionals, recreation and rehabilitation specialists, and social workers and counselors could reach 30-34 percent during the decade covered by the forecast. Employment of psychologists, who generally hold graduate degrees, is expected to increase by 15 percent from 2006 to 2016.
At Lesley University we think our smaller size is your advantage. You won’t be a number and you will get to explore diverse paths that build on your interests. We’ll be right there with you. We think you’ll be pleased if you try us out. For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact me or any of the faculty in our Division.
Dr. Katherine Barone
Division Director
Psychology and Applied Therapies Division
College of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies
Faculty Spotlight
Nathan Brewer
Instructor of Human Services
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