Picking a college can be tough, especially when you want to study psychology. With so many schools out there, how do you find the best one for you? Choosing incorrectly can hinder your academic journey, potentially impacting your future career prospects.
Fortunately, Wisconsin has some great colleges for psychology, each offering unique strengths, specialized programs, and award winning faculty members. This guide will introduce you to some of the popular traditional and online psychology colleges in Wisconsin.
Psychology Colleges in Wisconsin
Listed below are some of the popular psychology colleges in Wisconsin:
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
- University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
- University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin – Parkside
- Lawrence University
- Beloit College
- Carthage College
- Southern New Hampshire University (Online)
To find out how we select colleges and universities, please click here.
University of Wisconsin – Madison
The University of Wisconsin – Madison (UW–Madison) is a prominent public land-grant research university situated in Madison, Wisconsin. Established upon Wisconsin’s attainment of statehood in 1848, UW-Madison holds the distinction of being the official state university of Wisconsin and serves as the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System.
UW-Madison is not only the first public university founded in Wisconsin but also the oldest and largest public university within the state. In 1866, UW–Madison became a land-grant institution.
The main campus, spanning 933 acres along the picturesque shores of Lake Mendota, boasts the presence of four National Historic Landmarks. UW-Madison’s academic structure comprises 13 schools and colleges, catering to a diverse student body that includes over 35,000 undergraduates, 1110,000 graduate students, 2,000 special students, and 500 professional students.
The university offers 136 undergraduate majors, 148 master’s degree programs, and 120 doctoral programs. With over 24,232 faculty and staff, UW-Madison holds the distinction of being the largest employer in the state and a significant contributor to Wisconsin’s economy.
The university is also home to nearly 900 student organizations, including an active Greek life and social scene that has earned UW-Madison recognition as one of the nation’s top party schools. While freshmen are not required to reside on campus, many choose to do so, opting for the vibrant residential communities where they live and learn alongside fellow students and faculty.
Furthermore, the UW-Madison is a founding member of the Association of American Universities, a selective group comprising major research universities in North America. It holds the distinction of being considered a Public Ivy institution and is classified as an R1 University, reflecting its dedication to cutting-edge research and academic excellence.
UW-Madison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 60% and a graduation rate of 88%. As of 2023, the average annual in-state cost for undergraduate on-campus students before any aid or financing is $28,916.
Psychology Programs Offered
The Department of Psychology at UW-Madison offers six distinct areas of concentration. While collaboration is encouraged across these groups, each concentration maintains its own specific requirements for graduate study, and students are typically admitted to one of these areas:
- Biology of Brain and Behavior
- Clinical
- Cognitive and Cognitive Neuroscience
- Developmental
- Perception
- Social and Personality
These areas of concentration encompass a wide range of topics, research endeavors, and academic pursuits, catering to the diverse interests of students and faculty within the field of psychology at UW-Madison.
The Department of Psychology at UW-Madison offers following programs:
- Psychology, B.A. or Psychology, B.S.
- Master of Science: Data Science in Human Behavior
- Ph.D. in Psychology
The university receives approximately 400 applications each year for the Psychology Ph.D. program, of whom around 20 are admitted to the program.
Psychology Department Contact Information
South Hall, 1202 W Johnson St, Madison, WI 53706.
Phone: (608) 262-1040
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
The University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (UW-Milwaukee) is s a public urban research university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It holds the distinction of being the largest educational institution within the Milwaukee metropolitan area and is a member of the University of Wisconsin System.
Among Wisconsin’s higher education institutions, UW-Milwaukee is one of only two universities that offers doctoral degrees and holds the distinction of being the second-largest university in the state.
UW-Milwaukee comprises a total of 14 schools and colleges, including some distinguished institutions such as the sole graduate school of freshwater science in the United States, Wisconsin’s premier CEPH (Council on Education for Public Health) accredited school of public health, and the state’s only school of architecture. As of fall 2023, the university reported an enrollment of 23,155 students.
The university offers 100 bachelor’s degree programs to its undergraduate students. Meanwhile, graduate students have the option of pursuing over 50 degree programs, including those in the Sheldon B. Lubar School of Business, the fields of education and engineering, and in the highly ranked library and information studies program.
Beyond the classroom, UW-Milwaukee students engage in various extracurricular activities, including approximately 300 campus clubs and sports teams. Student athletes can join the 15 UWM Panthers varsity sports teams, which actively compete in the NCAA Division I Horizon League.
Moreover, the vibrant city of Milwaukee offers students opportunities to explore museums, theaters, a zoo, and even take a scenic journey via the Lake Express ferry to Michigan
UW-Milwaukee takes pride in its notable alumni, which includes figures like Jim Rygiel, a three-time Academy Award recipient for his work in digital effects on the “Lord of the Rings” films; and James L. Ziemer, the former president and CEO of Harley-Davidson.
UW-Milwaukee holds the classification of “R1: Doctoral Universities – Highest research activity,” underscoring its commitment to advancing academic and scientific research.
UW-Milwaukee is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 89% and a graduation rate of 43%. As of 2023, the average annual in-state cost for undergraduate on-campus students before any aid or financing is $21,959.
Psychology Programs Offered
The Department of Psychology at UW-Milwaukee offers an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment that promotes diversity. This commitment extends to a broad range of identities, including aspects such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, religious affiliation, nationality, age, and socioeconomic background.
The department actively supports anti-racist and anti-discrimination principles and is committed to advocating for social justice and racial equity within the realms of science, clinical care, and education.
UW-Milwaukee’s Department of Psychology maintains collaborative connections within the local Milwaukee and broader Wisconsin community, as well as on national and international levels, through its educational, research, and clinical endeavors.
The Department of Psychology at UW-Milwaukee offers following programs:
- Bachelors of Arts (B.A.) – Psychology
- Bachelors of Science (B.S.) – Psychology
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology: Health Psychology
- Clinical Psychology PhD
- Health Psychology PhD
- Neuroscience PhD
Psychology Department Contact Information
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, Department of Psychology,
2441 E Hartford Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211.
(414) 229-7711
University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW–La Crosse) is a public educational institution situated in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Its was establishment in 1909, and it is part of the University of Wisconsin System, offering a comprehensive range of academic degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
As of fall 2023, the university is host to 9,379 undergraduates and 935 graduate students, with its academic offerings housed within four schools and colleges. These include 102 undergraduate programs, 31 graduate programs, and 2 doctoral programs. UW-La Crosse has a global network of more than 85,000 alumni, spanning all 50 U.S. states and 57 countries.
The university holds the classification of “Master’s Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs” and is nationally recognized for several programs, especially in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assistant offerings at the graduate level. Additionally, UW-La Crosse hosts a top-ranked archaeology and anthropology undergraduate degree program, which is unique in the Midwest and one of the few nationwide.
For students, there are many opportunities to engage in campus life, with over 180 clubs and organizations available for participation. The university’s Division III sports teams, known as the UW—L Eagles, compete in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, supported by the school mascot, Colbert the Eagle.
Distinguished alumni of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse include MLB catcher Vinny Rottino and former NFL player Bill Schroeder.
UW-La Crosse is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). It has an acceptance rate of 74% and a graduation rate of 69%. As of 2023, the average annual in-state cost for undergraduate on-campus students before any aid or financing is $17,511.
Master of Science in Education in School Psychology
UW-La Crosse also offers a 30-credit Master of Science (M.S.) in Education in School Psychology program online. This program focuses on training current Wisconsin educators for roles as school psychologists, emphasizing effective consultation and intervention in educational settings.
The curriculum includes areas such as psychological foundations, educational foundations, educational psychology, school psychology, and mental health in educational settings. Graduates are well-prepared to provide psychological services in schools, with extensive knowledge of curriculum, special education, and pupil services. Practical experience is integral to the program, which includes a practicum and a internship.
Admission requirements for the program include:
- Undergraduate statistics course
- A resume
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- An online interview
- Criminal background check
- GRE is not required.
Education Specialist (Ed.S) – School Psychology
Furthermore, the university offers a 60-credit Education Specialist (Ed.S) degree in school psychology, which requires two years of full-time study, a summer session, a year-long internship, and completion of an Education Specialist capstone project. Successful graduates attain full licensure as school psychologists, both in Wisconsin and in many other states.
The emphasis of the program is to prepare school psychologists who are effective teachers, parents, and school consultants. This program holds full accreditation from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Upon fulfilling all Ed.S. degree requirements, excluding the school psychology internship and the capstone project, students receive endorsement for an Initial Educator License in Wisconsin. Upon successful completion of the Ed.S. degree, which includes the internship and capstone project, students obtain endorsement for Wisconsin’s Professional Educator License.
Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) – School Psychology (Online)
UW-La Crosse offers a 27-credit online M.S.Ed. in School Psychology program with similar emphases on consultation, intervention, and the pupil services model. This online program addresses the educational and mental health needs of children from early childhood through high school. The program focuses on educational and psychological foundations, educational psychology, school psychology, and mental health in educational settings.
As part of the program, students must gain practical experience through 500 hours of school psychology experience during practica in the third year, followed by a 1200-hour internship upon completion of all coursework.
Other Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology
Psychology Department Contact Information
University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, Psychology Department,
335 Graff Main Hall,
1725 State Street, La Crosse, WI 54601.
Phone: (608) 785-8440
University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UW-Eau Claire) is a public educational institution located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and is part of the University of Wisconsin System. The university offers both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
Spanning across 333 acres, the campus comprises 28 major buildings, with an additional 168 acres of forested land dedicated to environmental research. It is situated along the banks of the Chippewa River, offering a picturesque setting within an urban environment, proximate to Eau Claire’s historic Water Street.
Key academic buildings on campus include Schofield Hall, housing administrative offices and named after the university’s first president, Harvey Schofield. Other notable academic facilities include Phillips Science Hall, Hibbard, Schneider Social Sciences Hall, Humanities Hall, Vicki Lord Larson Hall, the Nursing Building, McIntyre Library, and Centennial Hall.
The university provides various residence halls, including The Suites, Horan, Murray, Governors, Sutherland, Oak Ridge, Bridgman, Chancellor’s, and Karlgaard Towers on upper campus, along with off-campus residences like the Priory, Haymarket Landing, and Aspenson-Mogenson.
At the heart of campus life, the Davies Center serves as a central hub, offering dining facilities, a movie theater, the student senate office, a coffee shop, the student bookstore, and many in-door and out-door spaces for studying and socializing.
UW-Eau Claire is affiliated with NCAA Division III and is a member of the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC). The university’s mascot is Blu the Blugold.
UW-Eau Claire is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 77% and a graduation rate of 67%. As of 2023, the average annual in-state cost for undergraduate on-campus students before any aid or financing is $22,632.
Psychology Programs Offered
The Psychology Department at UW–Eau Claire is nationally accredited and boasts over 600 majors, 200 minors, and 30 graduate students, all of whom contribute to the departments’s outstanding reputation. The department’s mission is to advance psychology as a scientific discipline by exploring the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors influencing behavior and mental processes.
Courses within the department are taught by dedicated professors who are passionate about their fields. They employ creative projects and presentations to immerse students in the diverse realm of psychology. The department’s commitment to small class sizes fosters meaningful relationships and personalized education.
Internship opportunities enable students to apply classroom concepts and explore their interests within the field of psychology. Many psychology students internships at locations such as the Children’s Nature Academy, the Human Development Center, or other community and campus partners affiliated with UW–Eau Claire.
The university hosts annual on-campus Career Conferences and a Non-Profit and Government Career Fair, providing students with direct access to potential employers. These events serve as valuable networking opportunities and platforms for submitting resumes for current and future job openings.
The department offers following psychology programs:
- Bachelor or Arts (B.A). or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Behavior Analysis
- Bachelor or Arts (B.A). or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Psychology
- Bachelor or Arts (B.A). or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Neuroscience
- Education Specialist Degree in School Psychology
Psychology Department Contact Information
Hibbard Humanities Hall 277,
124 Garfield Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701.
Phone: (715) 836-5733
University of Wisconsin – Parkside
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside (UW Parkside) is a public institution located in Somers, Wisconsin. It is is an integral part of the University of Wisconsin System. Boasting an enrollment of over 4,000 students, the university is supported by a dedicated faculty comprising 161 full-time members and 89 lecturers and part-time faculty.
Academically, UW-Parkside offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, encompassing 33 undergraduate majors and 11 master’s degree programs across 22 academic departments. UW-Parkside is one of only two universities within the UW System not named after its host city, the other being UW-Stout.
UW-Parkside’s is a complex of interconnected buildings, including the primary academic facilities and the student center linked by skyways. One of these walkways, famously known as “The Bridge,” connects the Student Center to Molinaro Hall.
The overall campus design was conceived by nationally recognized architect Gyo Obata, featuring a prominent library/learning center at its core. The original campus buildings, erected between 1967 and 1976, occupy but a fraction of the expansive 700-acre campus, which resides within Kenosha County.
UW-Parkside participates in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II for its athletic programs, with the Parkside Rangers serving as the university’s athletic brand. The teams sport forest green, black, and white, competing within the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
UW-Parkside is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It has an acceptance rate of 89.5% and a graduation rate of 43%. As of 2023, the average annual in-state cost for undergraduate on-campus students before any aid or financing is $19,873.
Psychology Program Offered
A distinctive feature of the Psychology, Professional Counseling, and Neuroscience department is its commitment to providing undergraduate students with research opportunities. Under the guidance of skilled faculty, students actively engage in research within various campus labs, including the Social Psychology Lab, Adolescent Socioemotional Development Lab, Moral, Emotional, and Social Development Lab, and Neuroscience of Motivated Behaviors Lab.
Students pursuing psychology majors at UW-Parkside may qualify for membership in Psi Chi, the national honor society in psychology. This organization, closely affiliated with the Psychology Club, collaboratively sponsors various activities designed to cater to the broad interests of psychology students.
The department offers following psychology programs:
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Psychology
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Psychology (Online)
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Neuroscience
- Master of Science (M.S.) – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Certificate in Psychological Research
- Mental Health Skills Certificate
- Neuroscience Certificate
- Certificate in Psychological Research
Psychology Department Contact Information
Psychology, Professional Counseling, and Neuroscience Department,
900 Wood Rd, Kenosha, WI 53144.
Phone: (262) 595-2142
What Bachelor’s Degree is Best for Psychology?
The best bachelor’s degree for psychology largely depends on your specific interests and career goals in the field. However, there are some common options to consider:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology: This degree typically emphasizes liberal arts courses and may provide a broader education in areas like social sciences, languages, and literature. This program integrates a broad liberal arts education with foundational knowledge in psychology. A B.A. in Psychology is ideal if you are considering combining psychology with other fields, like the arts, humanities, or business.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology: A B.S. tends to be more research-focused and often requires students to take additional courses in math, statistics, and the social sciences. This degree is ideal if you are interested in a more scientific exploration of psychology or are considering pursuing graduate studies in psychology or related fields, like neuroscience.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Neuroscience or Cognitive Science: If you are specifically interested in the biological bases of behavior, cognitive processes, or the intersections of psychology and biology, this might be a more suitable option. It’s ideal if you are interested in areas like neuropsychology.
- Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology: Some universities offer bachelor’s degrees in applied psychology, which is designed to provide students with practical skills for careers in counseling, human resources, or other applied areas.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychological Sciences: A B.A. in Psychological Sciences emphasizes both the foundational principles of psychology and a broad liberal arts education. Unlike a traditional B.A. in Psychology, it generally involves more comprehensive approach to the field. Futhremore, there may be a greater emphasis on electives or concentrations that dive deeper into specialized areas of psychology (such as, clinical psychology, health psychology, neuropsychology, developmental psychology, and personality psychology).
- Dual or Double Majors: Combining psychology with another discipline (e.g., sociology, criminal justice, or business) may provide a broader perspective and open up diverse career paths.
Regardless of the specific degree you choose, ensure the university is accredited and offers opportunities for research, internships, or fieldwork. These experiences can be invaluable for both graduate school applications and future employment opportunities.
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