About Us

The Mission of the Department of Psychology is to help students acquire a broad-based knowledge in the field of psychology as the empirical science of human behavior. The Department helps students develop critical thinking skills, written and verbal communication skills, and an evidence-based empirical approach to problem-solving. All faculty are committed to quality teaching, the discovery of new knowledge, and serving as teacher-scholars.

At the undergraduate level, our goal is to prepare students either for graduate study and a career in psychology, or for a baccalaureate level career in human services. The Department also contributes to the University’s General Education and Liberal Studies programs.

At the graduate level, our goal is to provide students with the academic and professional training necessary for a career in one of the human service professions and/or with the credentials and aptitudes to succeed with further graduate study in psychology beyond the masters degree.

Our Top Five Priorities

1. Increase levels of personalized education for psychology students.
2. Increase acquisition of student writing skills.
3. Increase students’ level of knowledge and expertise in psychological processes, behavioral science research methodology, and the application of psychological principles to diverse areas of human behavior.
4. Prepare students for success in future professional and educational endeavors related to their education in psychology at Chapman University.
5. Participation of all faculty in research and scholarship.