SCHOOL OF PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology is a very popular course. It may be a major in either Arts or Sciences and can be taken in conjunction with a number of degrees such as Commerce, English, Law, Physical Education and Applied Science, to name but a few. The Department of Psychology at Otago has a highly regarded teaching programme and is internationally renowned for the strength of its research.

Careers opportunities
In addition to specialising in Psychology, a degree in Psychology is useful for a wide range of other disciplines as well. Students take Psychology as part of degrees in Law, Marketing, Neuroscience, English, Physical Education, Management, Applied Science, Philosophy, Education, or Health Sciences.

Psychology is the science of behaviour. Psychologists study the way humans (and other animals) interact with the world and each other.

For example, Psychology examines how our abilities change with age, and what might underlie abnormal behaviour. It investigates how we process and store information using our senses and memory, and how our experiences shape our behaviour.

Psychologists also study how behaviour relates to the functioning of the brain, and why things such as drugs, hormone levels and lack of sleep can influence the way we behave. Applied psychologists use this knowledge to address problems as diverse as sleep disorders, industrial relations, phobias, drug rehabilitation, aircraft safety and hyperactivity.