Psychology | California State University Monterey Bay

Department of Psychology

Department Mission

The Psychology Department's mission is grounded in the CSUMB Vision Statement (1994). Our identity as a department values evidence-based practice, academic rigor, social justice, and respect for diversity through educational approaches that facilitate social change. We use student-centered teaching to train students in the use of scientific inquiry and critical thinking. Students who graduate from our program will be prepared to pursue a variety of career paths with knowledge about behavior, wellness, and mental health. In fulfilling the program’s major learning outcomes, graduates will operate in the world as informed, globally aware, and responsible citizens prepared to work in a complex society and to serve the needs of diverse people in underserved communities.

PSY Alum has First-Author Paper in Archives of Sexual Behavior

Congratulations to CSUMB Psychology alum Nikole Babcock who has a newly released first author publication in the highly reputable journal Archives of Sexual Behavior! This paper reflects some of the work Nikole did as an undergrad in Dr. Shannon Snapp's lab. We are so very proud of her for this incredible accomplishment!Nikole is in her first year of a PhD program at University of Connecticut in Human Development and Family Sciences. Congratulations Nikole & Dr. Snapp!

Three CSUMB students receive prestigious Goldwater scholarships

From left, Efrain Ramirez, Annie Hansen and Oscar Murillo-Espinoza are all winners of Goldwater scholarships. | Photo by Mark Muckenfuss

CSUMB Psychology Ranked in Top Bachelor's Degree Programs in California

Congratulations to our Department on being ranked on the Top 25 Bachelor's in Psychology Programs in California list by Psychology Degree 411. The ranking table compares the top 25 Psychology programs offered by not-for-profit institutions in California based on a graduation rate above 55%, and an annual net price below $20,000. Psychology Degree 411 is a comprehensive informational resource for prospective students interested in pursuing a degree in psychology.

Need Funding for Conference Travel or for Capstone Research?

Please use this form to request funding from the psychology department. There are three kinds of funding you can request:

Funding to travel to a conference. You may be given preference if you're presenting, but you don't have to be presenting to request funding. We recognize the utility of students and faculty attending conferences to network and support peers even if they're not presenting.
Funding to conduct your capstone project. You may need funding to compensate participants, purchase supplies to run your study or some other need.
Funding to support your teaching or research. This is typically for faculty who need materials and supplies to support their teaching or research.

Funding requests will be reviewed by the Psychology Budget Committee and Department Chair. Due to our limited budget, some requests may need to be denied or offered partial funding.

Our Amazing Alumni!

photos of 10 PSY student alumni arranged in a grid

Alumni Updates

Current Psychology Related Research

Interested in PSY related research having to do with current events? Check out our new "Current PSY Research" page where we link to articles and commentaries on current events from a Psychological perspective.

Apply for Scholarships here!

scholarship application on a desk with a pen

The scholarships listed here are offered by various colleges, departments, and community members. Click on the link below to learn more about these opportunities.

Search Scholarships

Applying to Graduate School?

If you are, take a look at Dr. Burchett's helpful website detailing the ins and out of program selection, application, and preparation. Dr. Burchett even lists out opportunities to conduct research through a variety of summer internships and trainings. The website also provides information on psychology-related career paths that you might have not thought of... take a look!