Hands-on Learning
You’ll be able to pursue ways to put your education and interests to use in a variety of settings, depending on your interests. All psychology students have opportunities for lab work, where you’ll learn to administer and analyze tests, observe people, measure brain activity, use the latest software and prepare presentations.
You’ll also be able to participate in research projects, both on campus and off, from studying how people interpret the behavior of others to determining how animals make choices in finding food. You’ll have the chance to work as a departmental assistant and/or at local agencies that serve people with developmental disabilities or mental illnesses.
Internships/Research
The sciences at Bethel College emphasize student research and creative activity. All psychology majors design and complete a year-long research project, putting into practice the skills they have acquired. Some of the more recent projects have included:
- Effects of Specific Formal Training on Emotional Responses to Music
- The Effects of Attributions in Writing about Traumatic Events on Anxiety Levels
- Concept of God and Personal Meaning: Investigating the Perspective of Older Adults
- What’s in a Label?: Resolving Ambiguities in Self-Reports of Emotional Responses to Music
Some recent psychology internship placements have included:
- Northview Developmental Services, Newton
- United Methodist Youthville, Newton
- Prairie View Mental Health Services, Newton/Wichita
- Community Playschool, Inc., North Newton
Summer Camps
The Summer Science Institute takes place annually on campus in the first week of June. The institute offers high school students who have completed grades 10–12 opportunities for research investigation in multiple areas of science, including biology, psychology, mathematics, chemistry and computer science. Students study fascinating and challenging topics that high school courses typically do not cover, focusing on learning how to do research through close interaction with faculty. Bethel students can gain practical experience in science instruction and lab supervision as Summer Science Institute staff.
Explore how to turn your passions into your profession through our personalized services.
Discover how your classwork relates to your future career – or even your future career – through the Employment Experiences Office.
Expand your campus experience with internships or service placements, building networks with professional contacts. Complement your academic preparations with career readiness through resume and interview guidance. Find an on-campus or off-campus job that provides you with relevant real-world experience and financial resources.
Whether you set your sights on graduate school or launching your career post-Bethel, we’re here to help you succeed — even after graduation.