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Mission Statement & Learning Outcomes

The Whitworth Psychology Department offers a solid foundation in the investigation and understanding of human behavior, emotions, and mental processes. Students will use their knowledge as they design their own research project, learn to evaluate and make sense of scientific and other popular claims, and join discussions about the integration of psychology and the Christian faith. They will gain experience in a practicum placement of their choice and have the opportunity to travel to destinations that bring their classroom learning to life. They will grow in competence and enjoy camaraderie with both faculty and students. A psychology degree from Whitworth builds skills for success in a broad range of professional and personal endeavors.

The learning outcomes of this major prepare the student to do the following:

• Demonstrate intellectual breadth in social, developmental, personality, and biological psychology.
• Understand the methods and assumptions of psychology and pursue at least one topic or specialty in depth through selection of elective courses and individual research topics.
• Use the tools of analytical and critical thinking to collect, synthesize, and apply knowledge in research, practice, and in life.
• Be informed consumers of research with the ability to evaluate texts and popular claims critically, thinking as psychological scientists and practitioners about thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
• Listen deliberately, speak persuasively and compassionately, and engage responsively in artistic and creative expression.
• Interact professionally and informally in diverse settings with a variety of individuals.
• Begin a lifelong process of personal growth in a community of students, staff, and faculty that fosters self-understanding, a healthy life, enduring friendships, service-learning, and respect for others.
• Read and understand books and journals of the discipline and communicate understanding of texts and persons in the language of the discipline, both verbally and in writing.
• Use technology effectively, accurately, and efficiently to collect and/or evaluate data and to enhance professional communication.
• Give serious consideration to the integration of faith and learning, and articulate an awareness of the ways in which faith both informs and challenges our learning.
• Understand and appreciate the richness of cultural, racial, ethnic, gender and religious diversity.
• Articulate the ethical principles of the discipline and of their worldviews, and use these principles to understand conflict and to guide personal responses to people and ideas.