We understand that there are many different paths and courses you can take as an undergraduate student at George Mason University. This page is designed to provide some resources to help you navigate these pathways during your time as a student.
You are encouraged to meet with an advisor at least once a semester. However, remember that Advising is not meant to be a "one stop shop". You are encouraged to schedule as many appointments as necessary, especially the semester prior to graduation to ensure all paperwork is finished. You can find all the information you need to schedule your appointment here.
When scheduling, please keep in mind University deadlines, assignment deadlines, and time of year – particularly during the beginning and end of the semester, as these tend to be busier times.
Due to the nature of the information discussed, please understand that only you and your advisor are allowed in your advising session. This is to protect your educational privacy. This includes parents, siblings, or grandparents. If you consent to releasing this information, please visit the registrar's website for information for the necessary paperwork.
Students can earn either the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in psychology. The primary difference between the two degrees has to do with their respective general education requirements and other non-major requirements.
The B.A. degree is more of a traditional liberal arts degree, with such requirements as foreign language, math, science, literature, fine arts, and non-western culture.
The B.S. degree has no foreign language requirement and there is a greater emphasis on math and science. Students are encouraged to consider where their own academic strengths and interests lie when deciding on which of the two degrees they will pursue.
These are resources that are maintained in the Psychology Department that will be able to help you out during your time as an Undergraduate Student. It is recommended that you review these prior to your advising appointment.
BA Psychology Advising Sheet Fall 2018 - Current Catalog
BS Psychology Advising Sheet Fall 2018- Current Catalog
Psychology Research Participation
These forms are maintained by the University. While most of these forms can be signed by any of our advisors, such as the Change of Major or Declare a Minor, there are some that require further review, such as Study Elsewhere or Credit Overload. It is recommended that you contact us if you have any specific questions.
Change of Major/Declare a Concentration
Bachelor/Accelerated Master's Transition Form
Undergraduate Re-Enrollment Form
All degree requirements are set by the official University Catalog. Should the degree requirements change during your time at school, you would still follow the same requirements for the year you started. This is referred to as your catalog year.
If you would like to change your catalog year for any reason, please speak with an advisor. While possible, we will still make sure that it doesn't adversely affect you.
Concentrations, while not required, are a good way to help focus your studies towards a specialty within the psychology degree.
Current Degree Requirements for BA
Current Degree Requirements for BS
Concentration in Clinical Psychology
Concentration in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
Concentration in Developmental Psychology
Concentration in Educational Psychology
Concentration in Forensic Psychology
Concentration in Health Psychology