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Welcome to the Psychology Department

Psychology is one of the most versatile and impactful majors at San Francisco State University.

Whether you are interested in mental health, education, research, neuroscience, business, data science, user experience, community leadership, or public service, psychology provides a foundation for understanding people and solving real-world problems.

Students develop skills in research, data analysis, communication, critical thinking, and evidence-based decision making while exploring topics such as human development, cognition, social behavior, mental health, culture, and the brain. Along the way, they gain opportunities to participate in research labs, community-based learning, internships, and professional development experiences that connect classroom learning to future careers.

Our goal is not simply to help students earn a degree. It is to help them discover pathways that connect their interests, values, and strengths to meaningful careers and advanced study. Through strong faculty mentorship, hands-on learning, and an expanding network of alumni, students gain both the knowledge and direction needed to navigate an increasingly complex world.

Spotlight

Laura Jarvis (Class of 2018) defending her Master's Culminating Experience

The School Psychology 2017 Cohort at the MS Hooding Ceremony
Graduate Programs
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Scholarships

Undergraduate Student Resources

Whether you are planning your first semester or preparing for graduation, we offer a variety of resources to help you succeed as a Psychology major.

Explore:

• Psychology Major Roadmap
• Advising Information
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Scholarships
• Research Opportunities
• Data Science Certificate
• Career and Graduate School Pathways (Coming Fall 2026)

Our goal is to help students connect their coursework, experiences, and interests to meaningful careers, graduate education, and community impact

Graduate Programs

The Department of Psychology offers master's degree programs designed to prepare students for advanced study, research, and professional careers.

Master of Arts in Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Mind, Brain, Behavior
• Social, Personality, and Affective Science

Master of Science in Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Our graduate programs provide rigorous training, close faculty mentorship, and opportunities for research, professional development, and career advancement.

Questions about graduate admissions:

Graduate Studies
www.grad.sfsu.edu
(415) 338-2234
gradstudies@sfsu.edu

Psychology Graduate Programs
gradpsych@sfsu.edu

Please note that admissions to the School Psychology Concentration are currently paused until further notice

Psychology Recognition Ceremony

Each spring, the Department of Psychology celebrates the accomplishments of our Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Master of Science graduates at the annual Psychology Recognition Ceremony.

Each year, approximately 300 graduates and their families join faculty, staff, and friends to celebrate this important milestone. The ceremony includes the reading of every graduate's name, the hooding of our master's students, student speakers, faculty recognition, and a keynote address.

More than a graduation event, the Psychology Recognition Ceremony is an opportunity to honor the hard work, perseverance, and achievements of our students as they prepare for careers, graduate education, and the next chapter of their lives.

Relive the highlights of the 2026 Psychology Recognition Ceremony in the video below

Online Bachelor's Degree Completion Program

The Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, offered through the College of Professional & Global Education (CPaGE), provides a flexible pathway for working adults seeking to complete their psychology degree.

Students develop skills in critical thinking, research methods, data analysis, communication, and the scientific study of human behavior. The degree prepares graduates for careers involving human behavior and relationships while also providing strong preparation for graduate study in psychology, education, business, public health, law, and related fields.

For more information, contact:

psychonline@sfsu.edu
(415) 405-7700

SF State Psychology Training Clinic

The SF State Psychology Training Clinic provides affordable individual and group psychotherapy services to members of the community.

Clients seek services for a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, stress management, and personal growth. Services are provided by advanced graduate student clinicians under the supervision of licensed professionals.

If you are unsure whether therapy is right for you, we encourage you to schedule an intake appointment to discuss your needs and explore available options.

Phone: (415) 338-2856
Email: sfsupsyclin@gmail.com

Psychology Department Office

The Psychology Department Office (EP 301) is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Our staff can assist with general questions, forms, referrals, and connecting students with the appropriate resources within the department and university.

If you have questions, please stop by EP 301 or email us at psych@sfsu.edu, and we will be happy to help.

Undergraduate Advising

Psychology students have access to multiple advising resources designed to support academic success and career planning.

General Advisors: Assist with General Education requirements, university policies, and graduation planning.

Peer Advisors: Provide major-specific guidance, course recommendations, and student perspectives.

Faculty Advisors: Support advanced academic planning, graduate school preparation, career exploration, and approval of academic forms.

Psychology Office: Our staff in EP 301 they provide administrative support and assistance navigating university processes.

Whether you are exploring career options, selecting courses, preparing for graduate school, or planning your path to graduation, our advising team is here to help."

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