Many students wonder how to categorize psychology. Is it a STEM discipline, a liberal arts major, or something in between? The answer isn’t black and white. Psychology often blends scientific methods with human-centered approaches, making it a field that spans multiple categories.
In this article, we’ll explore:
What STEM means and where psychology fits in
How psychology programs vary by degree and institution
The impact of this classification on students and careers
What Is STEM?
STEM is an acronym for:
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
These fields focus on technical knowledge, research, data analysis, and problem-solving. Disciplines like biology, chemistry, and computer science clearly fit the STEM mold.
The Scientific Side of Psychology
Psychology explores how people think, feel, and behave. Many branches use research methods and data analysis to draw conclusions. Fields like cognitive science, behavioral neuroscience, and experimental psychology rely on scientific tools and techniques.
Students in these areas often learn:
How to design and run experiments
How to collect and interpret data
How the brain and nervous system influence behavior
Because of this, many universities classify certain psychology degrees as part of STEM—especially if they lead to a Bachelor of Science (BS).
Is Psychology a STEM Major?
Whether psychology counts as a STEM major depends on the program.
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology usually includes:
More science and math courses
Greater focus on research and lab work
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology may focus more on:
Social theory and communication
Human behavior in societal or cultural contexts
So, yes—psychology can be a STEM major, particularly if it emphasizes scientific training and methodology.
How the Government Classifies Psychology
In the U.S., federal agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation often include research-based psychology in their list of approved STEM fields.
This classification affects:
Eligibility for certain scholarships and grants
Optional Practical Training (OPT) extensions for international students
Career opportunities in science, healthcare, and technology
Psychology: STEM, Liberal Arts, or Both?
Psychology straddles both worlds. Some programs are rooted in scientific research. Others emphasize counseling, theory, or social interaction.
For example:
A BA in Psychology from a liberal arts college may focus on the human experience.
A BS in Psychology from a research university may align closely with neuroscience or biology.
This flexibility is one of the field’s strengths. Students can shape their path based on their goals.
Career Paths and Skills from Psychology
Graduates in psychology enter a wide range of careers. Some roles are STEM-oriented, while others lean more toward education or community support.
Examples of STEM-related psychology roles:
Neuroscientist
Cognitive researcher
Industrial-organizational psychologist
Health data analyst
Examples of liberal arts-related psychology roles:
Therapist or counselor
School psychologist
Social worker
In both tracks, students develop valuable skills:
Critical thinking
Data analysis
Scientific writing
Empathy and communication
Why This Matters
Knowing whether psychology is considered a STEM field can influence your academic planning.
Scholarships and grants: Some are only available to STEM students.
Career planning: A STEM-based psychology degree may lead to more technical roles.
Immigration benefits: International students in STEM fields may qualify for extended work visas.
If you want a science-heavy program, choose a BS degree with courses in research, biology, and statistics. If you prefer counseling or education, a BA may suit you better.
Final Thoughts
Psychology is a diverse and flexible field. It combines the precision of science with the insight of the humanities. Depending on your interests and the program you choose, psychology can be:
A STEM major
A liberal arts degree
Or a blend of both
This versatility makes psychology an excellent choice for students interested in both people and research.
Share this post:
