Minor in Health Psychology

From working in clinical settings to conducting research and influencing health care policy, health psychologists measure the impact of behavior on health and create ways to help people make the behavior choices that induce good health and prevent illness. In this field, psychologists have many professional options, and the demand for their expertise is high. That's because hospitals and other health care entities realize the many ways health psychologists can improve their strategies for care, particularly in the area of prevention.

Health psychologists are essential in clinical settings, where they conduct clinical interviews and behavioral assessments. They may also participate in interventions with individuals or groups for example, programs to help people reduce stress, quit smoking and avoid sedentary behaviors.

Containing health care costs is a priority for health care decision-makers and policymakers, which is an area of research where health psychologists can contribute in meaningful ways. They may study the causes of health problems and how to prevent them, or explore why certain groups don't seek care when they need it. They may also help patients understand and come to terms with a diagnosis, or follow a treatment regimen in order to increase the probability of their full recovery. (American Psychological Association)

View current requirements

Requirements prior to fall 2019

• Minimum of 18 credits in psychology (PSY) coursework
• One of these courses must be either Introductory Psychology (PSY 1010) or Elements of Psychology (PSY 1020)
• At least three of these courses must be taken at Wayne State University
• Cumulative PSY GPA of 2.0 or higher
• A student may NOT use PSY 4993 (Field Study) or PSY 4994 (Special Projects) to count toward the eighteen required credits

Courses for the minor must be completed from the following:

• PSY 1010 OR PSY 1020 (Introductory Psychology)
• PSY 2410 (Health Psychology)
• PSY 3120 (Brain & Behavior) OR PSY 5050 (Physiological Psychology)
• PSY 3310 (Abnormal Psychology)
• Plus one of the following electives:
  • PSY 2080 (Psychology of Drugs, Behavior, and Society)
  • PSY 2400 (Developmental Psychology)
  • PSY 3380 (Human Sexuality)