Psychology at St. Thomas

Psychology is a young science but an old profession.  Questions about the nature of the mind, consciousness, and the origins of behavior have been explored for centuries, but only since the late 1800's have we taken these questions into the laboratory.  Doing so allowed us to separate psychology from our simplified common-sense approach to understanding the human person.  In our program we emphasize the importance of hands-on research to strengthen students' critical thinking and analytic skills - to separate true thinking from "merely rearranging (one's) prejudices," in the words of early psychologist William James.

Emphasizing research and critical thinking does not keep us from also asking broad, rich and vital questions about human life and human nature.  These are questions psychologists have always explored and that connect us to our institutional history and mission -- about the uses of psychological knowledge for advancing human welfare and enhancing our potential for happiness, for example.  And questions generated by our deep desire for philosophical and spiritual understanding, our need for meaning and guidance in dealing with life's difficult moments.

Welcome to psychology.  We hope you'll find what you need here.  If you don't - please let us know.