BA or BSc major
Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes. Explore key topics like addiction, immigration, homelessness, neuropsychology, aging and more. Engage with active student groups and build strong connections with faculty.
Get hands-on experience through co-op placements and dive into research in top-tier labs and through partnerships with leading research centres. Learn how the brain works, how to foster healthy development and be part of a dynamic research community with real-world applications.
The BA (Bachelor of Arts) and BSc (Bachelor of Science) majors have many similarities but also some important differences:
BA major
- requires any 2 biology courses in the first year
- offers more flexibility to choose elective courses from a wide range of topics
BSc major
- requires certain math and science courses
- must take biology courses BIOL 184 and BIOL 196 in the first year
- must take 2 additional science courses in both the second and third year
If you need help deciding which major is right for you, talk to an academic adviser.
Admissions
Learn everything you need to know about becoming a UVic student, from choosing a program and reviewing admission requirements to submitting your application and reporting your grades.
If you have questions, talk to a student recruiter or attend one of our events.
Courses
See the University Calendar for a list of all psychology courses.
Streams
Our curriculum is divided into 4 streams, or specializations, of courses. Think about where you want to end up and dive into the courses that will take you there.- in your final undergraduate year, would you like to get hands-on experience working with individuals challenged with physical, cognitive and/or emotional problems? Dive into the mental health and well-being stream
- if you want to study topics such as psychology and law, self-regulation and interpersonal relationships, pursue the social psychology stream
- want to explore what psychological science knows about aging? Take the appropriate classes in the lifespan stream
- interested in a 400-level seminar on cognitive neuroscience? Wade into the 300-level courses in the mind and brain stream
Honours
Third- and fourth-year honours students conduct original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Learn advanced research methods that aren’t covered in regular coursework. Gain access to small courses restricted to top students.
Get details on our honours program.
Combined major programs
Combine your psychology major with one in biology or computer science. Get a degree that fuses your interests in our combined combined major and honours programs.
Minor
A minor is an optional program that allows you to study in an area outside of your major program area. A minor in psychology requires:- 7.5 units of courses numbered at the 100 or 200 level
- 9 units of courses numbered at the 300 or 400 level
Funding
UVic offers scholarships, bursaries, awards and other funding opportunities to help you further your education and succeed in your studies. Explore funding options at UVic.
Most scholarships are awarded based on recommendations made by the department. However, some require a separate application form.
Jamie Cassels Undergraduate Research Awards (JCURA)
The Jamie Cassels Undergraduate Research Award (JCURA) supports students who complete a research project under the mentorship of a faculty supervisor.
Full-time third- and fourth-year students with a GPA of 7.0 or above are eligible to apply. Each successful student receives a $1,500 credit in their UVic account.
Valerie Kuehne Undergraduate Research Awards (VKURA)
Valerie Kuehne Undergraduate Research Awards (VKURA) give first- and second-year students the opportunity to gain research experience with a faculty member. Paid research internships are full-time for 12 weeks (between May 1 and August 31).
Career options
Psychology is the science of understanding why people think, feel and behave the way they do. Studying psychology can lead to a variety of careers. You can work with people, facilitate well-being or engage in scientific research. Get great career path details in this psychology career paths resource.
Career Services can help you develop a career you love. From exploring career options to applying for jobs, they've got you covered.
Co-op
Our optional co-operative education (co-op) program gives you hands-on paid work experience related to what you're studying. It's the perfect way to develop your skills and find a career you love.Learn more about what co-op is, how it works with your degree, and what to expect as a co-op student.
Psychology students have had co-op placements like:
- Rock Solid Foundation – WITS program coordinator (WITS is an acronym based on 4 anti-bullying strategies: Walk away, Ignore, Talk it out, Seek help)
- Island Health – mental health and addictions research assistant
- Alberta Sick Kids Hospital – brain injury research assistant
- Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre – recreation coordinator
- BC Ministry of Education – provincial exam marking coordinator