Valerie Reyna with students
Understanding thoughts, feelings and behaviors, through theoretical and translational research

Department of Psychology

In the Department of Psychology we focus on the investigation of behavior and its cognitive, neural and hormonal underpinnings in the full range of environmental situations. Our strengths lie in four broadly defined areas of development, cognition, neuroscience, and social and personality psychology. We develop and conduct theoretical and translational research to advance health and well-being.

Currently, we offer two majors and minors for undergraduate students. The Psychology major and minor are offered through the College of Arts & Sciences while the Human Development major and minor are offered through the College of Human Ecology. We also offer graduate degrees in the field of Psychology through the College of Arts and Sciences and the field of Human Development through the College of Human Ecology.

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Student researchers in Psychology

Preparing undergraduate students for the future of psychological research and practice

Undergraduate students develop critical thinking skills, emphasizing the foundational nature of the science of psychology.

Learn more about the department's undergraduate programs

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Learn at the nexus of graduate level scientific inquiry

The Department of Psychology embraces multidisciplinary and translational research and graduate training, viewing psychology as a “hub science” at the nexus of many other areas of scientific inquiry.

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A cross disciplinary approach to research

The Department of Psychology embraces a “big tent” approach to methods, techniques and analysis that can be used to expand the frontiers of psychological science.

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Psychology Events

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Expanding the psychological sciences at Cornell

On July 1, 2021, the College of Human Ecology’s Department of Human Development merged with the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Psychology to form a new psychology super-department. The new department retains the title “the Department of Psychology” and includes the faculty members from both departments. The evolution sets the stage to enhance collaboration in the psychological sciences and provide students with a rich education from a broad range of leading faculty.

Click here to learn more about the transition

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