South Carolina, known for its rich history and scenic beauty, is also home to several reputable psychology colleges. These institutions cater to a range of interests, from those keen on understanding human behavior to those aspiring to specialize in specific psychological fields.
Whether you are looking to dive deep into research, clinical practice, or the theoretical aspects of the subject, South Carolina offers a mix of colleges to fit your aspirations. This guide will provide an overview of some of the popular psychology colleges in the state, helping you make an informed choice about your educational journey.
Psychology Colleges in South Carolina
Listed below are some of the popular psychology colleges in South Carolina:
- University of South Carolina
- Clemson University
- Furman University
- Winthrop University
- University of South Carolina – Upstate
- Columbia International University
- Charleston Southern University
- Coastal Carolina University
University of South Carolina
About University
The University of South Carolina is a public research institution situated in Columbia, South Carolina. Serving as the flagship university for the University of South Carolina System, it holds the distinction of being the state’s largest university based on student enrollment. Its central campus spans over 359 acres in downtown Columbia, conveniently positioned near the South Carolina State House. The university is categorized as an “R1: Doctoral University with Highest Research Activity”.
Originally established in 1801 under the name South Carolina College, the institution has evolved over time and now provides over 350 study programs. These programs grant bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 14 colleges and schools. In total, the university system caters to approximately 52,000 students.
The University of South Carolina has an acceptance rate of 64% and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Psychology Department
Psychology stands out as a significant and multifaceted academic field at the University of South Carolina. The psychology department leans on research and modern technology to delve into brain function and human behavior, aiming to address some of society’s critical challenges.
The psychology department uses research and technology to study the brain and human behavior to solve some of humanity’s most important issues. The department aims to:
- Promote excellence in research recognized both nationally and internationally.
- Share knowledge with students at all levels using quality instruction, mentoring, and advice.
- Offer service to the university, the wider community, and the profession.
The department offers a Bachelor of Arts degree that encompasses a deep understanding of psychological theories and practices, underpinned by the scientific method. This program also allows students to engage in both research and clinical training.
Undergraduate students will delve into understanding human behavior, a topic people have wondered about for ages. They will tackle questions like: How does the brain function? How do people grow and make choices? What issues arise in this process, and how can they be addressed? Through the program, students will explore these topics in depth.
Upon completing this major, students have a strong foundation to find roles in various areas such as working with people, business roles, sales, student services, legal professions, and health roles, including jobs in medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and nursing.
At the postgraduate level, the department provides a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) with specializations in Cognitive and Neural Sciences, Quantitative Psychology, Clinical-Community Psychology, and School Psychology. Emphasis is laid on research training, priming graduates for academic careers and related roles.
The Ph.D. program offers students comprehensive research and clinical training in psychology. They can opt for a specialization, collaborate with a faculty mentor, and delve into their areas of interest. Graduates from the program are well-equipped to assume academic positions in prestigious universities, institutes, medical centers, schools, hospitals, or private practices.
Research in the department revolves around core themes such as child and family psychology, cognitive neuroscience, community and multicultural psychology, behavioral neuroscience, children’s experiences in schools, and health promotion.
Both undergraduate and graduate students work intimately with faculty, utilizing renowned facilities like the McCausland Center for Brain Imaging, the Institute for Mind and Brain, and the Psychology Services Center.
The Psychology Services Center
The Psychology Services Center (PSC) operates as a mental health clinic for individuals in Columbia, South Carolina, and neighboring regions. It also functions as a training and research center for the University of South Carolina’s psychology department. The center’s mission revolves around offering accessible mental health services to underserved populations, emphasizing affordable, evidence-based interventions.
Through a sliding-scale payment model, PSC offers therapeutic interventions and psychological assessments to children, families, couples, and individual adults. Their services address a range of issues, including attention deficits, anxiety, behavioral challenges, trauma, couples therapy, depression, adjustment difficulties, social skills enhancement, and other concerns.
Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Psychology Doctoral Program
- Cognitive and Neural Sciences
- Quantitative Psychology
- Clinical-Community Psychology
- School Psychology
Psychology Department Contact Information
1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Suite #220,
Columbia, SC 29208.
Phone: (803) 777-4137
Clemson University
About University
Clemson University is a public land-grant research institution located in Clemson, South Carolina. Established in 1889, it is South Carolina’s second-largest university by enrollment. As of spring 2023, the institution had over 20,000 undergraduate and 5,000 graduate students with a student/faculty ratio of 18:1. The 1,400-acre campus nestles in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, adjacent to Lake Hartwell, a body of water formed by a dam in 1962. The university also oversees the 17,500-acre Clemson Experimental Forest for research, education, and recreation purposes.
The university comprises seven colleges: Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences; Architecture, Arts and Humanities; The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business; Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences; Education; Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences; and Science. Clemson University holds the classification of “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity.”
Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It has an acceptance rate of 43%.
Psychology Department
The Department of Psychology at Clemson University provides both Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees. The graduate program includes a Master of Science (M.S.) in applied psychology and two Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs. This department emphasizes health psychology, human factors psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology. An optional concentration in occupational health psychology is available in all graduate programs.
The department’s mission is to foster a diverse environment, welcoming and supporting individuals of all backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. Over 900 students major in psychology at Clemson. While the B.A. program includes foreign language and humanities, the B.S. program has a more science and math-oriented curriculum. Both degrees equip students for careers in various fields, including human resources, counseling, and others.
The M.S. in Applied Psychology is a two-year course targeting those aspiring for industry roles or further academic pursuits. Concentrations available include human factors psychology and industrial and organizational psychology. The Ph.D. program in industrial and organizational psychology, spread over four to five years, prepares research scientists and educators for academia and the industry.
The Department of Psychology at Clemson University stands among a select group of programs across the country that have received funding from both the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). This funding supports the development of a graduate training program in occupational health psychology (OHP). The potential for significant impact and academic excellence is evident in this occupational health psychology training at Clemson University. Formal training began in the year 2000 as a concentration within the existing I-O and applied psychology programs.
It’s noteworthy that Clemson’s psychology department doesn’t offer clinical or counseling psychology at the graduate level, nor does it have part-time, online, or distance learning graduate courses.
The graduate admissions process is rigorous, considering both the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores and Grade Point Average (GPA). Generally, scores around the 50th percentile for the GRE and a GPA of approximately 3.0 are considered lower benchmarks.
Psychology Clubs
On the extracurricular front, the Psychology Club welcomes anyone with an interest in psychology. It offers monthly meetings and participation in the annual meeting of the Southeastern Psychological Association (SEPA). Dr. Heidi Zinzow oversees the club. Additionally, Psi Chi, the International Honor Society for psychology students, is present at Clemson. Membership is invitation-only, with inductions held once a semester. Dr. Kaileigh Byrne acts as the chapter’s advisor, and students are encouraged to participate in the various activities and service projects offered throughout the academic year.
Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Science in Applied Psychology
- Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology
- Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Psychology Department Contact Information
418 Brackett Hall, Clemson University,
Clemson, South Carolina 29634.
Phone: (864) 656-3210
Furman University
About University
Furman University, situated in Greenville, South Carolina, is a distinguished private liberal arts institution. Established in 1826 and named in honor of Baptist pastor Richard Furman, it stands as South Carolina’s most respected private higher education establishment. In 1992, the university transitioned to a secular institution but retained “Christo et Doctrinae (For Christ and Learning)” as its guiding motto. As of Fall 2023, the institution hosts over 2,300 undergraduate and 150 graduate students within its expansive 750-acre grounds.
The university’s picturesque campus lies at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina’s upstate region. The 750-acre land boasts a 40-acre lake, surrounded by Georgian-style architecture, with many educational and residential buildings, including the emblematic Bell Tower, mirroring the one from the former men’s campus in downtown Greenville.
Furman University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It has an acceptance rate of 71.4%.
Psychology Department
Within Furman University, the Psychology Department stands out for its exemplary undergraduate education in psychological science. Throughout its history, it has emphasized transformative learning both inside and outside the classroom. The faculty, experts in various psychological subfields like cognition, biopsychology, and clinical psychology, collaborate closely with students in their research pursuits. The department’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and equity shines through in its endeavors to establish an environment where everyone feels esteemed and welcomed.
The department takes pride in its robust undergraduate program. The curriculum is structured to give students a comprehensive understanding of psychology’s core areas, combined with practical exposure through research and community internships. Almost every major student undertakes an independent research initiative, an internship, or both, preparing them comprehensively for future endeavors. It typically takes a student four years to earn a B.A. or B.S. in psychology at Furman.
Students majoring in psychology at Furman are exposed to a thorough overview of the discipline’s key areas, methodologies, and statistical techniques. Advanced courses allow students to delve deeper into specific subjects, while they can also earn credits for independent research or external internships. The department firmly believes in the significance of hands-on learning, ensuring students are well-equipped for future academic or professional pursuits.
Research opportunities, highly recommended for psychology majors, enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing them for diverse career paths. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, students navigate through the intricate research process. Additionally, internships provide avenues for students to gain real-world experience, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The university has fostered ties with various organizations in Greenville and the broader Southeast region, paving the way for unique internship opportunities in diverse fields.
Small classes, well-equipped research facilities and Furman’s commitment to a liberal arts and sciences approach to learning are hallmarks of the program. With a a B.A. or B.S. in psychology degree from Furman, you will have the required knowledge and hands-on experience to excel in graduate school or the job market.
Recent alumni are now employed at well-known organizations including Children’s Hospital of Boston, the U.S. National Parks Service, Pfizer Inc., Windstream Communications, South Carolina Department of Social Services, Centers for Disease Control, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Psychology Clubs
The Psychology Club plays a pivotal role in organizing events for students, facilitating interactions with colloquium speakers and arranging community volunteer activities. On the other hand, Psi Chi, the National Honor Society in Psychology established in 1929, focuses on fostering and sustaining excellence in the psychological domain. Furman’s Psi Chi chapter has been active since 1971 and inducts eligible students every spring semester.
Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
For admissions, the comprehensive review of applications considers grades, curriculum intensity, optional test scores, extracurricular activities, and potential contributions to the Furman community. Beyond just the application, it’s important to establish a personal connection to better understand the applicant and their interest in Furman.
Psychology Department Contact Information
Johns Hall, Suite 206, Furman University,
3300 Poinsett Highway, Greenville, SC 29613.
Phone: (864) 294-2811
Winthrop University
About University
Winthrop University, situated in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is a public institution established in 1886 through the efforts of David Bancroft Johnson, a superintendent of Columbia, South Carolina’s schools. He was able to found the university with assistance from Robert Charles Winthrop, a Boston-based philanthropist. Presently, the university offers various undergraduate and graduate degrees via five colleges and schools. It enrolls approximately 6,000 students, making it South Carolina’s sixth-largest university.
The 100-acre primary academic and residential campus lies 25 miles southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina, and 71 miles north of Columbia, South Carolina. Notably, it is near the Blue Ridge Mountains and is adjacent to Lake Hartwell, formed by the 1962 dam completion.
Winthrop University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It has an acceptance rate of 64%.
Psychology Department
The Department of Psychology at Winthrop University aims to equip students for diverse career paths, from pursuing higher studies to establishing careers in sectors like health, business, and law. With 14 full-time faculty members and additional part-time instructors from the professional community, the department offers a range of courses. Unique opportunities are available, such as research, community service, internships, and co-ops, courtesy of Winthrop’s location near the expansive Charlotte area.
The department cherishes the values of collaboration, mutual respect, and diversity, ensuring every student feels valued and encouraged. Continuous improvement is a hallmark, with students asked to participate in assessment tasks to enhance the program further.
The faculty at Winthrop University possess expertise in numerous specialties within psychology, including clinical, counseling, child, cognition, developmental, experimental, and several other areas. They actively engage in the professional arena, participating in conferences, publishing research, and holding leadership roles in various organizations.
The university offers an undergraduate (B.A) program in psychology as well as a nationally recognized graduate program in School Psychology.
Undergraduate students at Winthrop acquire a broad range of knowledge and skills consistent with both the University’s general education goals and the American Psychological Association’s Undergraduate Psychology Learning Goals. The undergraduate program also offers plentiful opportunities to conduct and present research at professional conferences, often with financial support from the university.
Recent graduates in psychology have found jobs in diverse sectors including health and human services, social services, business, and education. Additionally, many have furthered their studies in specialties within psychology, as well as in fields like medicine, law, business, and education.
The university’s School Psychology program focuses on producing competent practitioners capable of delivering comprehensive school psychological services. This program aligns with certification requirements for most states and prepares graduates for the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential, contingent upon passing the Praxis exam in School Psychology.
The full-time faculty in the program are experienced, credentialed school psychologists who actively contribute at local to international levels. There’s a notable effort in recruiting faculty with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and expertise, with an emphasis on teaching and supervision as their primary roles.
The School Psychology program also includes a paid 1200-hour internship under the supervision of credentialed faculty and field supervisors.
Outside of academics, the Psychology Club is open to all, fostering community engagement through group activities and service projects. Moreover, Winthrop University and its Department of Psychology ardently promote long-term study abroad programs, viewing them as vital for grooming students for a globalized world.
Study Abroad
Winthrop University and its Department of Psychology actively promote study abroad experiences for their students, recognizing the value of such experiences in a globalized world. With proper planning, students can integrate these experiences into their degree plan without delaying graduation. For most programs, students can utilize their existing scholarships, grants, and loans. They can also seek additional financial aid. There are over 20 study abroad programs available, with the Department of Psychology endorsing several tailored for their majors.
Psychology Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Master’s and Specialist in School Psychology Degrees (S.S.P.)
Winthrop University operates on a rolling decision schedule. Applications are non-binding, but early applications, especially before the February 15 scholarship deadline, are encouraged. For those transferring, it’s advisable to apply at the start of their final semester or quarter at their current institution.
Deadlines for scholarships are June 1 for the fall semester and December 1 for the spring. Admissions also require an online application, a $50 fee, all relevant transcripts, and standardized test scores for freshman applicants. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is required for the graduate School Psychology program.
Psychology Department Contact Information
269 DiGiorgio Campus Center, Rock Hill, SC 29733.
Phone: (803) 323-2248
What is the Difference Between a BA and a BS in Psychology?
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology differ primarily in their course focus and requirements. A BA in Psychology typically offers a broader education in the liberal arts, emphasizing humanities and social sciences, allowing students more flexibility in choosing electives. This degree might be more suitable for those interested in the social and cultural aspects of psychology or those considering careers in counseling, social work, or human resources.
A BS in Psychology usually has a stronger emphasis on the natural sciences, math, and research methods. It often requires more courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and advanced statistics, making it a preferable choice for students planning to pursue careers in clinical psychology, research, or related fields that require a more rigorous scientific foundation.
In essence, while both degrees provide a foundational understanding of psychology, the BA offers a broader, liberal arts perspective, and the BS leans more towards a scientific and technical approach.
What Degree Do You Need to be a Psychologist in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, to become a licensed psychologist, you typically need a doctoral degree in psychology. The program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or another recognized accrediting body.
After completing the doctoral program, you must complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience. This usually comprises an internship during your doctoral program and a post-doctoral supervised experience.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in South Carolina?
In total, from the start of a bachelor’s degree to obtaining licensure, the process to become a psychologist in South Carolina typically takes between 10 to 12 years.
Earning a bachelor’s degree usually requires four years of full-time study. Doctoral programs can range from 4 to 7 years in duration. After completing the doctoral program, an additional year of post-doctoral experience is necessary.
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