The more than 1,000 students that study psychology each year at UHD develop as professionals and academics through internships and research experiences with faculty, and they do so on or off campus, as the program, one of the first at UHD to be offered fully online, can be completed either way.
Previously housed within the Department of Social Sciences, Psychology had grown to dozens of faculty members and one of the university's largest student populations. Now, with the creation of a standalone Department of Psychology, UHD is strengthening its ability to support students’ development.
Structured internships, for example, along with a dedicated internship coordinator to facilitate placement with community partners like Star of Hope, The Beacon, and the Epilepsy Foundation of Texas, give students direct exposure to the kinds of professional scenarios they will go on to encounter.
And the newly formed department added dedicated lab space and an advanced research methods course to thoroughly prepare students for graduate study, the latter a valuable experience evidenced by a recent student going on to enroll in the educational psychology graduate program at the University of Texas.
"Having our own department allows us to more clearly focus our efforts on psychology students and the opportunities that support their success," said Stephanie Babb, Chair of the Department of Psychology. And for faculty, the added administrative support will assist with their own research.
Too, psychology students can complete degree requirements online or on campus, providing flexibility for working adults and other nontraditional students. In fact, the online bachelor's program was recognized as the most popular in Texas for 2025 by OnlineU.
"The goal is always to create opportunities that benefit students," Babb said. "Whether that's through research, internships, or future academic programs, we want students to leave UHD prepared for what's next."