The Gourman Report (10th edition) ranks Stanford University, Yale University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) and the University of Minnesota (Twin Cities) as the top five undergraduate psychology programs. (See Reference 2) Some experts question the efficacy of the Gourman report, because the author does not explain the bases on which he rates departments. (See Reference 3) However, the list provides students with the names of excellent programs which they can research further. (See Reference 3)
APA guidelines indicate that good psychology programs should provide students with an understanding of theories of psychology (for example, behaviorism and humanistic psychology), the history of psychology, the major concepts, and empirical findings in psychology. (See Reference 1) These programs should have courses in cognitive psychology and learning, developmental psychology, biological aspects of psychology (for example, perception, physiology and comparative psychology), and individual differences (for example, personality and psychometrics). (See Reference 1)
APA maintains that research is an important aspect of psychology and good programs should teach students about research design, collection and analysis of data, and interpretation and appropriate reporting of research results. (See Reference 1) They should teach the science of psychology, including the difference between qualitative and quantitative research, statistical significance, and effect size, enabling students to evaluate conclusions of psychological research. (See Reference 1) APA indicates that good programs will teach students to understand the ethics involved in research. (See Reference 1)
APA states that good programs should teach students how to apply psychological principles to aspects of the environment. (See Reference 1) Students should be made aware of the primary fields in applied psychology (for example, counseling, clinical, and school psychology), as well as the newer areas (for example, forensic and health psychology). (See Reference 1) Programs should teach students how psychological knowledge can be used to to solve problems in society and aid in formulating public policy. (See Reference 1)
APA suggests that in good programs, students learn to use computers and other technology ethically and responsibly. (See Reference 1) Good programs encourage students to develop written and oral communication skills. (See Reference 1) Good college programs should encourage students in the development of personal insight and self-improvement. (See Reference 1)