Michigan is home to several distinguished institutions offering psychology programs that prepare you for careers in mental health, research, education, and more. These psychology colleges in Michigan provide comprehensive education and training, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the field of psychology.
Whether you aspire to become a clinical psychologist, counselor, or researcher, these colleges offer diverse programs and opportunities for personal and professional growth. In this guide, we will explore some of the popular psychology colleges in Michigan, highlighting their unique features and academic offerings.
Psychology Colleges in Michigan
Listed below are some of the popular psychology colleges in Michigan:
- University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
- Michigan State University
- Central Michigan University
- Oakland University
- Eastern Michigan University
- University of Michigan – Dearborn
- Hillsdale College
- Andrews University
- Michigan Technological University
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
About University
The University of Michigan is a public research university situated in Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States. Established in 1817, it stands as the oldest and largest university in Michigan, having been founded twenty years before the territory achieved statehood. The University of Michigan is a foundational member of the Association of American Universities.
Since 1871, the University of Michigan has operated as a coeducational institution. Currently, it enrolls around 32,000 undergraduate students and 18,000 graduate students. The university encompasses 19 colleges and provides degree programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels across approximately 250 disciplines.
Additionally, the University of Michigan has two regional campuses: one in Flint and another in Dearborn, as well as a center in Detroit. Admission for undergraduate studies at the university is regarded as “most selective,” and the institution is categorized among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity.”
The University of Michigan is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 20% and a graduation rate of 93%.
Psychology Department
The Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor consistently ranks among the best in the country. Their faculty members are acknowledged both nationally and internationally for their significant contributions to the scientific study of psychology.
The department’s undergraduate and graduate programs stand out for their contributions in both classroom instruction and research training, along with their emphasis on hands-on learning. For many years, it has been viewed as one of the premier psychology departments worldwide.
Undergraduates pursuing psychology have two primary tracks:
- Psychology
- Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience (BCN)
The psychology curriculum aims to deepen students’ understanding of behavioral science and provide insights into human behavior. Undergraduate courses in psychology allow students to explore findings from research on topics such as motivation, perception, learning, individual differences, personality development, and interpersonal dynamics in various social settings.
Students interested in a specialized major in psychology that leans towards natural science, cognitive science, and neuroscience might find the Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience (BCN) major fitting. The BCN major’s primary goal is to integrate various natural science elements, such as neuroscience, cognitive science, and evolutionary perspectives, in studying behavior.
For those seeking advanced studies, the Psychology Department provides a Ph.D. program in six psychology areas:
- Biopsychology
- Clinical Science
- Cognition & Cognitive Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Personality & Social Contexts
- Social Psychology
The department’s faculty are renowned for their significant contributions to the field. This reputation offers students the privilege of being educated by the industry’s leading experts and the chance to work closely with faculty on research projects or to pursue independent studies. Seniors students can also embark on independent research projects, such as an honors thesis.
A standout attribute of the Department, and of the University of Michigan as a whole, is their dedication to interdisciplinary studies. This commitment promotes collaborative research across various psychology subfields and fosters novel research endeavors uniting psychologists, researchers, and scholars from diverse academic backgrounds.
Student Clubs
The Black Undergraduate Psychological Association (BUPA) aims to offer academic, professional, and social assistance to Black undergraduate students with an interest in psychology or those pursuing a psychology degree. BUPA also creates opportunities for these students to immerse themselves in research, internships, and hands-on experiences in the psychology domain, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity.
The Michigan Association of Psychological Scholars (MAPS) operates as a mentorship program available to both undergraduate and graduate students majoring in Psychology or BCN. This program may pair students based on shared research interests, ethnic backgrounds, or career aspirations.
The Undergraduate Psychological Society (UPS) is an initiative led by students aiming to support fellow undergraduates specializing in psychology. While their primary emphasis is academic, UPS also organizes community outreach and social gatherings. These activities underscore the importance of a holistic college journey and foster valuable connections among undergraduate students, graduate counterparts, and faculty members. Ultimately, UPS envisions serving as a platform for discourse and a precious resource for its community.
Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science
- Psychology
- Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience (BCN)
- Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science (Honors)
- Psychology Ph.D Program
- Biopsychology
- Clinical Science
- Cognition & Cognitive Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Personality & Social Contexts
- Social Psychology
The Department of Psychology only admits students in the Fall term. To ensure thorough consideration, application materials, including recommendation letters and English proficiency scores (if necessary), must be received by the December 1st deadline.
To apply for an undergraduate program, you will need to pay a $75 application fee and submit high school transcripts, one teacher evaluation and SAT or ACT score.
For graduate admission, all application processes take place online via the Rackham Graduate School’s website. During the application, instructions for uploading Personal Statements, Statements of Purpose, and transcripts are provided. GRE score are optional.
Psychology Department Contact Information
Department of Psychology, 1004 East Hall, 530 Church Street,
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1043.
Phone: (734) 764-2580
Michigan State University
About University
Michigan State University, located in East Lansing, Michigan, is a public land-grant research university. Its history dates back to 1855 when it was established as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, making it the first institution of its kind in the United States. In 1863, following the introduction of the Morrill Act, the college was designated as a land-grant institution, marking it as the inaugural land-grant college in the nation. The university transitioned to coeducation in 1870, and in 1955, it officially attained university status, adopting its current name in 1964.
Today, Michigan State University has expanded its presence across Michigan, boasting a widespread network of facilities and one of the largest alumni associations in higher education, with over 634,000 members. The university holds membership in the Association of American Universities and is classified as an “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” institution.
Michigan State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 83.3% and a graduation rate of 81%.
Psychology Department
The Department of Psychology at Michigan State University is committed to advancing psychological science through interdisciplinary research and delivering a high-quality education to both undergraduate and graduate students. As part of a land-grant university within the College of Social Science, the department’s overarching mission is to conduct research that positively impacts lives and inspires leadership on campus, in Michigan communities, and globally.
The Department of Psychology comprises more than 50 faculty members, all of whom are at the forefront of psychology research. Their expertise spans six main areas of psychology: Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Science, Cognitive, Ecological/Community, Industrial/Organizational, and Social/Personality Psychology. Many faculty members engage in interdisciplinary research within and outside the field of psychology.
Undergraduate students studying psychology have the opportunity to participate actively in classroom activities, collaborate on research projects with esteemed faculty members, and extend their educational involvement into the community. Students can opt for either a 120-credit Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Psychology, choosing the path aligned with their interests.
Undergraduate students can anticipate a well-rounded education encompassing introductory courses, exposure to fundamental sub-disciplines, and training in research methods and data analysis. Furthermore, the department offers an honors program, characterized by smaller class sizes, limited enrollment to Honors College members, and a more challenging instructional approach. es.
The department encourages undergraduate students to engage in research within the psychology department, providing valuable opportunities to collaborate with faculty and graduate students. These experiences can be pursued either as volunteers or for academic credit.
The department accommodates approximately 80 graduate students with diverse research interests, fostering a collaborative and collegial research environment. Graduates of the program have embarked on successful careers in academia, major corporations, government, and various other organizations.
Michigan State University offers a PhD in Psychology with six specialization options: Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Science, Cognition & Cognitive Neuroscience, Ecological/Community, Organizational, and Social/Personality.
Additionally, the university provides a Master of Arts program and a Graduate Certificate in Program Evaluation. The Master’s program equips students for careers in program evaluation, a rapidly growing field, combining theoretical knowledge with real-world experience. All courses in this program are delivered online by experienced evaluation professionals.
Master’s students engage in a two-semester supervised practical application course, gaining hands-on experience in a professional evaluation setting. The typical Master’s program entails two years of graduate study and the completion of either a thesis or a research project. The Ph.D. program typically requires additional academic work, including dissertation research, extending to two or three years.
The Master’s degree program mandates 30 credits beyond the Bachelor’s degree, including four to eight credits of individual research. Doctoral students must complete a dissertation and pass written comprehensive examinations in their major field of study as per university regulations.
The MSU Psychological Clinic
The MSU Psychological Clinic aims to serve as a state-of-the-art training facility offering evidence-based mental health care. It strives to be accessible and reliable for individuals seeking mental health services in the Greater Lansing area while also acting as a notable referral source for community colleagues.
Clinical psychology doctoral students and other trainees receive specialized training through the clinic, working with clients from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan. Clinicians address various disorders and issues, employing individual, family, and group interventions. Students gain exposure to different theoretical approaches and therapeutic techniques, all under the supervision of licensed faculty psychologists at Michigan State University.
Psychology Clubs
The Psychology Club welcomes anyone interested in psychology, offering opportunities for engagement and learning through service, guest speakers, and enjoyable activities.
Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, focuses on promoting and maintaining excellence in scholarship and advancing the field of psychology. The Michigan State University chapter of Psi Chi connects psychology students with resources and opportunities to prepare them for a future in the field. The chapter fosters a community of undergraduate psychology enthusiasts, organizing social and volunteer events based on member interests and meeting attendance.
Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science (Honors)
- Master of Arts in Program Evaluation (Online)
- Graduate Certificate in Program Evaluation (Online)
- PhD in Psychology
To apply for an undergraduate program, you will need to submit high school transcripts, one teacher evaluation and SAT or ACT score. Admission requirements for the PhD in Psychology program include:
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university.
- A GPA of 3.20 or better.
- A major in psychology or at least 12 credit hours in psychology with grades of B or better (Courses should include experimental psychology and statistics).
- Satisfactory scores on the GRE.
Psychology Department Contact Information
MSU Department of Psychology, 316 Physics Rd,
East Lansing, Michigan 48824.
Phone: (517) 355-9562
Central Michigan University
About University
Central Michigan University (CMU), situated in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, is a public research university with a rich history. Established in 1892 as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute, it began as a private normal school. Subsequently, in 1895, the Michigan State Board of Education assumed control, transforming it into a state institution known as Central State Normal School. In 1959, during the presidency of Judson W. Foust, it achieved full university status and was officially named Central Michigan University.
CMU holds a place among Michigan’s eight research universities and falls under the category of “R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity.” The Mount Pleasant campus accommodates over 15,000 students, and CMU offers a diverse array of academic programs, including undergraduate, masters, specialist, and doctoral degrees.
Central Michigan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 77% and a graduation rate of 61%.
Psychology Department
The Department of Psychology at CMU boasts a long-standing legacy. Its earliest reference can be traced back to the Central State Normal School’s 5th Annual Catalogue for the 1899-1900 school year, where it was referred to as the Department of Psychology and Pedagogy. In 1964, it gained independence and evolved into a standalone Department of Psychology. Over the subsequent years, it expanded its offerings to include graduate degrees, with the first degree conferred in 1967.
The Department of Psychology at CMU is guided by a threefold mission: advancing and disseminating knowledge pertaining to psychological processes, providing a strong foundation in fundamental knowledge and skills essential for advanced study in psychology and related fields, and equipping students with the competence needed for successful careers.
Undergraduate Programs
For undergraduate students, the Department of Psychology presents three major options and a flexible minor. You can choose a BA or BS. The first major, comprising 30 credits, offers remarkable flexibility and is suitable for those interested in psychology, regardless of their post-graduation plans. The other two major concentrations, each consisting of 36 credits, specialize in mental health and business.
The faculty within the department are distinguished for their scholarship and teaching, actively engaging in research and academic pursuits. Students across all levels receive instruction in the research methods of the field and are encouraged to collaborate on research projects with faculty members.
Whichever major you choose, you will work closely with internationally recognized faculty. You will also have the chance to conduct hands-on research in labs that focus on everything from child behavior to Alzheimer’s disease.
Master of Science in Experimental Psychology
CMU offers a 36-credit Master of Science in Experimental Psychology, providing training in scientific and empirical approaches to study human behavior and the mind. The program explores a broad range of topics across the lifespan, from infant learning to the complexities of neurodegenerative diseases. Faculty mentors, renowned for their research and scholarly achievements, collaborate with students on various research endeavors.
The deadline for all application materials is March 1st. GRE scores are optional.
Industrial/Organizational Psychology M.A.
The Industrial/Organizational Psychology M.A. program at CMU focuses on enhancing organizational efficiency, employee motivation, and overall work quality. Graduates of this 30-credit program play a pivotal role in selecting and training employees, measuring performance, and improving the quality of work life. The program offers flexibility, encouraging collaborative learning among students and instructors.
The deadline for all application materials is February 15th. GRE scores are required (subject portion is not required).
The School Psychology Specialist (S.Psy.S.)
The School Psychology Specialist (S.Psy.S.) program equips individuals with the skills to help students excel academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. Graduates of this 70-credit program guide students from diverse backgrounds and abilities toward success in their academic journey.
The program emphasizes psychological and educational foundations, research methods, assessment, intervention strategies, and professional school psychology. A diverse faculty with expertise in areas such as autism, pediatrics, and interventions support students throughout their education. Graduates of this program are eligible for school psychologist licensure in Michigan.
The deadline for the application is January 15th. GRE scores are optional.
Clinical Psychology Ph.D.
The 95-credit Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program at CMU provides a comprehensive understanding of human emotions and mental health. It follows a scientist-practitioner model, combining theory, research, and practice to develop well-rounded practitioners and researchers. The program covers a wide range of psychology topics and prepares students for careers in health services, intervention, assessment, research, supervision, and teaching. It holds accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA).
The deadline for the application is announced separately every year, in December.
Applied Experimental Psychology Ph.D
The 54-credit Applied Experimental Psychology Ph.D. program focuses on building strong research skills for careers in academia, business, and government agencies. Students can specialize in applied cognitive psychology, social psychology, personality, and behavioral neuroscience. The program emphasizes research expertise, mentorship from faculty, and collaborative research opportunities.
The deadline for all application materials is January 1st. GRE scores are optional.
Industrial/Organizational Psychology Ph.D.
The 78-credit Industrial/Organizational Psychology Ph.D. program at CMU prepares graduates to address organizational challenges in various workplace settings. The curriculum encompasses personnel psychology, organizational psychology, research methodology, and broader psychological theories. Students engage in research projects, thesis work, and internships with local or national businesses to gain practical experience.
The deadline for all application materials is January 1st. GRE scores are required (subject portion is not required).
The Psychological Training and Consultation Center (PTCC)
The Psychological Training and Consultation Center (PTCC) at CMU, under the Department of Psychology, provides outpatient mental health services to residents of the mid-Michigan area and the CMU community. The services offered include psychotherapy for a wide range of adult and child psychological disorders, couples and family therapy, and psychological testing for issues like learning disorders and attention deficits. The clinic also offers specialized therapy programs to cater to specific needs.
Psychology Department Contact Information
Department of Psychology, 101 Sloan Hall,
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859.
Phone: (989) 774-3001
Oakland University
About University
Oakland University, located in Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills, Michigan, is a public research university with a history rooted in the philanthropy of Matilda Dodge Wilson, who generously donated to its founding. Initially known as Michigan State University-Oakland, it was under the governance of the Michigan State University Board of Trustees. In 1970, it gained institutional independence from the board.
Among Michigan’s eight research universities, Oakland University is classified as an “R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity.” The university offers an extensive array of academic programs, including 132 bachelor’s degree programs and 138 professional graduate certificate, master’s degree, and doctoral degree programs, with offerings from the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. In 2016, it had an enrollment of over 20,000 students.
The university’s sprawling campus encompasses the Main Campus, Meadow Brook Estate, and two highly regarded golf courses, spanning 1,443 acres. Notably, the site is home to Meadow Brook Hall, a U.S. National Historic Landmark and the fourth-largest historic house museum in the United States.
Oakland University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 92% and a graduation rate of 57%.
Bachelor of Psychology
The Bachelor of Psychology (B.A) program at Oakland University prepares students for diverse career paths, graduate studies, and various professional pursuits. It imparts versatile skills such as writing, research, analysis, teamwork, and creativity, enhancing graduates’ marketability. The program also develops practical skills applicable to fields like social work, criminal justice, marketing, government, and education.
With small class sizes and dedicated professors, the undergraduate psychology program fosters direct interaction between students and faculty. Instructors not only teach from textbooks but also take a keen interest in students’ success, guiding them toward academic excellence and exploring options for further education or entering the workforce.
The program offers considerable flexibility in course selection, enabling students to tailor their psychology degree to align with their interests and career goals. Additionally, there is an optional concentration in linguistics, featuring a specialized sequence of courses. The curriculum includes a research component, ensuring that all psychology majors gain hands-on experience in data gathering, analysis, and report writing.
Students can further enhance their research skills through a capstone project, creating a substantial body of work that stands out on job and graduate school applications.
Master of Science in Psychology
The Master of Science in Psychology program at Oakland University prepares students for Ph.D. studies and advanced career prospects. This program offers comprehensive training in various psychology specialties, including behavioral health, evolutionary psychology, social-personality psychology, and comparative psychology. It involves 36 credits of graduate coursework, encompassing core courses and elective options that allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests.
The program is organized around three academic focus areas: Evolutionary, Cognitive, and Comparative Psychology; Social-Personality Psychology; and Behavioral Health. Each area provides students with in-depth knowledge and research experience, often leading to journal publications and conference presentations. Graduates of the program develop strong skills in writing, research, and data analysis, preparing them for success in both the workforce and Ph.D. programs.
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology program at Oakland University equips graduate students with the essential knowledge and skills to engage in research, exploring the intricacies of the human mind. This broad discipline intersects with the biological and social sciences. The program offers three concentrations: Social-Personality Psychology, Behavioral Health, and Evolutionary, Comparative, and Cognitive Psychology.
To earn the Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology degree, students must complete 80 credits of approved coursework and successfully defend a doctoral dissertation, as determined by their advisory committee. The standard full-time course load ranges from 8 to 12 credits per semester. Students who already hold a master’s degree from Oakland University or another accredited institution may reduce the required doctoral credits by up to 32 credits, subject to approval.
For such reductions, students must submit a Petition of Credit from Earned Master’s Degree.
To apply for a graduate program (Masters/PhD), you will need to pay a $45 application fee. During the application, instructions for uploading Personal Statements, Statements of Purpose, and transcripts are provided. GRE score are optional.
Psychology Department Contact Information
Pryale Hall, Room 111. 654 Pioneer Drive,
Rochester, MI 48309-4482.
Phone: (248) 370-2300
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