Undergraduate Overview

Grad cap reading "I'm Psyched!".

The University at Buffalo Department of Psychology gives you a front-row seat to the science of the mind. From how we learn and remember to what shapes our personalities and relationships, you'll explore the full range of thoughts, feelings and behavior—and how to apply that knowledge in the real world.

Where curiosity thrives

In the Department of Psychology, you’ll find:

  • A vibrant academic community fueled by active research and discovery
  • Top-tier research facilities with hands-on learning built into your experience
  • Faculty who teach what they study, bringing current insights and expertise into every class

At the heart of it all is a focus on psychological science. You’ll graduate with practical skills in scientific thinking, data analysis and problem-solving that prepare you for grad school or just about any career path that involves understanding people or behavior.

Degree options

Choose the track that fits your goals:

  • BA in Psychology: A science-based foundation with the flexibility to personalize your academic path.
  • BS in Psychology: A natural science-heavy program ideal for students headed toward healthcare or neuroscience
  • Minor in Psychology: Broad exposure to key areas of psychology to complement any major
  • Minor in Addiction Studies: A multidisciplinary approach to understanding addiction through medical, legal, social and humanistic perspectives
  • Psychology Honors Program: Dive deeper with advanced coursework and a mentored research opportunity
  • Singapore Program: Study psychology abroad at UB’s international campus for a one-of-a-kind global experience

What you’ll learn

You’ll gain a broad foundation in areas like:

  • Sensation and perception
  • Learning and cognition
  • Social behavior and personality
  • Clinical psychology and development
  • Behavioral neuroscience

Plus, you’ll build a skill set that employers love: writing clearly, thinking critically, analyzing data and communicating ideas.

Katie Ohman.

Our faculty

The Department of Psychology is home to over 30 PhDs in psychology, all with extensive experience in both research and teaching. Our faculty teach about two-thirds of all undergraduate classes, while highly qualified adjuncts and advanced PhD students support the rest—with close oversight and high standards.

Faculty research areas

Our faculty are nationally recognized for their work in areas like:

  • Clinical psychology and mental health
  • Child development and bullying prevention
  • Language acquisition in infants
  • Self and identity formation
  • Close relationships and social connections
  • Motivation and brain systems
  • Addictive behaviors
  • Resilience and stress
  • Auditory processing in humans and other animals
  • Understanding prejudice and stigma
  • Taste and feeding

Take the next step

If you're fascinated by how we think, feel and act—and want a degree that prepares you for graduate school or the job market—the Department of Psychology is ready for you.

Contact Us

For more information, please reach out!