As a public university which offers baccalaureate degree programs in the arts and sciences, Elizabeth City State University promotes excellence in teaching as its primary responsibility to fulfill the needs of its students. The university embraces the concept of a liberal education through teaching, research and community outreach, particularly as it relates to the lifestyles and needs of northeastern North Carolina with an identified focus on ethnic minorities.

The study of psychology promotes within an individual a sense of competence and efficiency through a better understanding of the processes of development and learning, human behavior and individual differences. Therefore, a fundamental effort in the Department of Psychology is to impart to students a thorough knowledge and comprehension of the practical, scientific, and theoretical/philosophical factors associated with the study of human behavior.

The overall mission of the Department of Psychology is to develop in undergraduate students a better understanding of the human experience in local, national, and international environments through a study of the factors contributing to personal growth and effective living; and in so doing provide a foundation for graduate and professional study. The Department’s mission can be translated into specific purposes/goals relevant to obtaining the Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology at Elizabeth City State University. The goals are as follows:

• Provide academic coursework, the completion of which results in receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree.

• Provide students with the knowledge, skills, and academic preparation necessary for the pursuit of advanced degrees in graduate and professional schools; thereby, facilitating viable employment opportunities.

• Provide students with a broad understanding of the types of problems in society which can be addressed via the application of knowledge obtained from a study of psychology.

• Provide service courses for students who are pursuing career fields other than psychology.