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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.
Cornell University helped pioneer the collaborative field of behavioral economics, where economists and psychologists work side by side to uncover how human behavior drives decision-making in markets and beyond.
Click here to read more about the impact of our behavioral economics research
Mice use distinct neuron groups for squeaks and social vocalizations, psychology researchers from Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences have found. The study reveals how mammalian brains organize vocal communication and may inform research on speech impairments linked to neurological diseases.
Cornell professor David Rand '04, a graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences, advances misinformation research using AI tools that help counter conspiracy beliefs and improve accuracy judgments. The former MIT scholar and punk musician now leads cross-college initiatives on informed society applications.
A study led by Cornell College of Arts and Sciences psychology researchers David Rand and Gordon Pennycook won the 2026 Behavioral Science & Policy Association publication award. The study across 16 countries found analytic thinking and accuracy prompts improve truth discernment and reduce sharing of false information.
Tom Gilovich, a psychologist in Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences, ffers five evidence-based travel tips prioritizing experiences over material purchases. He highlights journaling, exciting moments, physical preparation, thoughtful gift-giving, and strong trip endings to boost happiness and lasting memories.
Rikki Laser, a doctoral candidate in psychological sciences and human development in Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences, studies how temperature and parenting shape social development. Her research reveals how environmental perception influences neurobiology, behavior, health, and well-being.
Arina Danilina is majoring in psychology and is a Robert S. Harrison College Scholar
Undergraduate students develop critical thinking skills, emphasizing the foundational nature of the science of psychology.
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.
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.