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Build a strong foundation
Gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world.
Are you fascinated by human behavior and the human mind? The study of psychology can give you an advantage in almost any profession. In this program, you’ll explore the human experience and factors that influence behavior, development, and relationships. You will learn both in the classroom and out in the community through hands-on research and internships.
Depending on your career objectives and interests, you may design your own course of study or choose an emphasis: business, clinical and community services, graduate school, ministry, teaching and liberal studies.
Learn more!
Contact an enrollment counselor with any questions you have about the program.
A psychology degree is a great way to develop versatile skills for a career in business, education, counseling, social work, clinical psychology, law, administration, organizational development, theology, and ministry.
Human Resources Manager
Startup Business
Community Organizer
Non-profit
Clinical Psychologist
Health Organization
Denise M. Aaron ‘01
Co-founder of Ladies First 510 and Caregiver Coach at TAKE CARE
(The Sisters) set a standard: Once you leave Holy Names, you’re not just going to do a job. You’re going to establish a career and figure out how you’re going to give back.
“Martin Lampert’s values reflect those of HNU in ways that [simply] listing his teaching, service to HNU, and outreach to the larger Oakland community may not show. He is committed to his students; he walks the extra mile with them.”
—Maureen Hester, SNJM '57, psychology professor emerita.
All of our full-time undergraduate students receive financial assistance from Holy Names.
8:1
Student to Faculty Ratio
#6
US News and World Report Best Colleges Guide 2021 ranks HNU 6th Most Diverse University in their Regional Universities West category
Psychology Alumni
Our alumni are making an impact
HNU psychology alumni have gone on to careers in business, education, marriage and family counseling, social work, clinical psychology, law, administration, organizational development, theology, and ministry—to name just a few.
Letteria
Advocate and Therapist
The odds of Letteria Fletcher '06, MA '08 graduating from college were not stacked in her favor. Today, Fletcher helps homeless youth transition out of the foster care system.
Denise Aaron ’01 is passionate about women's health. She started a community organization to get Oakland women talking openly—and taking action—on health challenges that disproportionately trouble women of color.
The odds of Letteria Fletcher '06, MA '08 graduating from college were not stacked in her favor. Today, Fletcher helps homeless youth transition out of the foster care system.
Denise Aaron ’01 is passionate about women's health. She started a community organization to get Oakland women talking openly—and taking action—on health challenges that disproportionately trouble women of color.
Holy Names is proud to offer the Kennedy-Parrish Psychology Scholarship, a partial tuition grant that is open to full-time juniors and seniors studying psychology.
Student Experience
Learning Outcomes
Students in the psychology program will work toward the following outcomes through learning experiences both in and out of the classroom:
• Knowledge of the field
• Application of methods
• Written & oral skills
• Ethical awareness
• Interpersonal insight
A program sneak preview
Sample courses
Here are just a few of the courses you may take.
Psychopathology
Study psychological disturbances: anxiety and depressive reactions, psychoses, and character disorders.
Gender Issues
Examine the various psychological, social, and political issues related to gender from multiple theoretical perspectives.
Learning and Cognition
Explore the issues, theories, principles, and practical applications of cognitive psychology.
