Studying psychology offers much more than an understanding of human behavior — it gives you the ability to empathize with others and live out a life in service of those who need it most.
The Department of Psychology aims to develop students into professionals who are able to meet the needs of others with realism and intelligence. As a psychology student, you will study a spectrum of issues concerning human nature, examining both traditional and contemporary psychological research and methods from a distinctly Christian worldview. Whether you want to go to graduate school or desire to use your psychology knowledge within other professional arenas, PLNU’s psychology programs will allow you to dive deeper.
Faculty Spotlight
John T. Wu, Ed.D.
Professor of Psychology Dr. John Wu knows that manipulating a yo-yo takes a lot of skill. So does teaching psychology classes, doing outside research, and running a private-practice counseling center.
Faculty Spotlight
Dan Jenkins, Ph.D.
In 2015, PLNU psychology professor Dr. Dan Jenkins was invited to preach at a Thanksgiving Day service. Considering what to share, he felt prompted to write a letter of gratitude to his father to read during the service.
Opportunity for Engagement
Life in the Psychology Department
The Department of Psychology is built on rich collaboration between students and faculty.
PLNU's psychology department strives for excellence in education and is committed to the support and preparation of students to undertake graduate study in psychology or careers related to mental health, such as marriage and family therapy, counseling, clinical psychology, social and community psychology, and health psychology. We also match that commitment in educating students preparing for careers outside of mental health, such as church ministry, business, medicine, law, and more.
While our thoughtfully designed curriculum will set you up for professional success, our faculty will be there to help you grow personally and navigate through both career and self-exploration. We will help you build character and emotional maturity as you prepare to enter the workforce and pursue your true calling.
The Department of Psychology endeavors to develop students who are psychologically knowledgeable, emotionally intelligent, and morally engaged. We desire to provide a perspective on psychology informed by the Christian faith and a vision of Christian living informed by psychology. Our graduates will be equipped for lives of character devoted to serving the common good of humanity and the Christian community.
Department of Psychology Programs
An education in psychology cultivates deep critical-thinking, interpersonal, and diagnostic skills, which will prepare you for an abundance of meaningful career opportunities. Programs in general psychology, therapeutic and community psychology, computational science, and more provide the opportunity to pursue your passions and interests.
Opportunities for Engagement
Discovering your vocation doesn't only happen inside the walls of the classroom — it happens by coming face-to-face with new experiences, people, and ideas. From participating in the department’s tennis tournament and excelling in an internship to presenting your research at a regional or national conference, the Department of Psychology offers many opportunities for meaningful engagement.
Faculty
Our faculty serve as both teachers and mentors, committed to guiding you toward a full and purposeful education. By helping you explore thought-provoking and influential ideas and engage complex and difficult questions, faculty will provide you with access to an environment devoted to the pursuit of truth. An education at PLNU is both transformative and meaningful.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about the Department of Psychology or any of our majors and minors, please reach out to us!
Holly Hyon
Department Assistant
psych-dept-assistant@pointloma.edu
(619) 849-2710
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PLNU is committed to continuous and transparent alignment of our curriculum with the highest national standards. Learn about assessment.
