Study Abroad

Study abroad is a popular option for psychology majors. Psychology is studied at universities worldwide and we encourage students to take courses abroad to gain a different cultural perspective on the discipline. 

In addition to our Introduction to Psychological Science course, our psychology major and minor require four lab-based courses (Psyc 200 and three courses in the Psyc 310-349 range). Because most programs outside of UR do not teach lab-based psychology courses, students should plan to take their lab courses while at UR and use their study abroad experiences to fulfill elective credits in psychology. With help from academic advisors, students are encouraged to choose courses on topics that the University of Richmond does not offer. Students should also plan to take their 400-level seminar(s) at UR when they return from studying abroad.

Considerations by Year

Most psychology majors who study abroad choose to do so during their third year. Students who wish to study abroad during sophomore year should complete Psyc 100 and Psyc 200 before going abroad. Those who wish to study abroad during senior year should review their schedules with their advisors to make sure they will be able to complete required lab courses at UR in time for graduation. The schedule below provides some suggestions for managing your schedule.

First and Second-Year Students


Students should complete Psyc 100, Psyc 200, and Psyc 299 within their first two years at UR, prior to studying abroad. (Those who plan to study abroad for a full year should try to complete a 300-level lab course by the end of their second year.)

Third-Year Students


This is the most common time to go abroad. As long as you are able to find one or two appropriate elective courses to take while abroad, you should have no difficulty completing your major. In the semester that you are not abroad, plan to take one of your required 300-level lab courses. Those who plan to take a full-year abroad should plan to take three electives while abroad and should make sure they have room in their fourth-year schedule to take three lab courses.

Fourth-Year Students


Students should plan to complete their remaining required lab courses and an advanced seminar during senior year. Students who have studied abroad will also use senior year to fulfill any remaining elective credits through coursework or independent research.

Recommended Programs

Below is a non-exhaustive list of programs that offer courses eligible for elective credit in Psychology. To explore these and other programs, or to find information on financial aid, scholarships, and application procedures, visit the Office of International Education.