Psychology is the study of mind and behaviour. It explores the way in which humans (and sometimes animals) see, learn, remember, and think; as well as the way they behave among others. It also looks at the relationship between mind and brain physiology, and studies how all these faculties develop from conception and birth through to the end of life.

Psychology has a wide scope. Its subject matter ranges from biology of the brain and the nervous system, to social issues like what makes people behave the way they do in a group. Thus, it is widely accepted that psychology is a discipline of both natural and social science. There are five core areas of psychological science. These are biological, cognitive, social, developmental, and personality psychology. The undergraduate program offered by the department aims to provide a balanced education in all these areas as well as some more specialised areas offered as electives. It places importance on an active learning process with discussion-based classes and partly essay-based assessment.

The most important aspect of the program is its emphasis on scientific method and research. It is impossible to learn everything there is to know about such a vast area of scientific study. Thus it is more important to gain an understanding of the methods with which to study mind and behaviour. The main aim of the program therefore is to establish a good understanding of scientific method and analytic thinking as well as skills necessary to conduct research including data analysis and efficient use of computer software. In this capacity, students are required to take part in and conduct a range of research projects, which involve an increasing level of independence as the course progresses. In the final year students are required to complete an independent research project culminating in a senior thesis.

The program also aims to place somewhat more emphasis on the natural science aspect of psychology than social. Both the curriculum and research conducted in the department provide opportunity for students to specialise in cognitive psychology and neuroscience. However, the program also gives the choice to students to take courses in specialised application areas of psychology like health psychology or clinical psychology.