Those interested in this versatile major likely have questions about the subject. A common question for those considering undergraduate psychology degrees or graduate studies such as industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology is: Is psychology a social science, or is psychology a humanities subject?  

While psychology is widely considered a social science, it does share some traits with disciplines traditionally regarded as the humanities. Before examining the reason for this classification, however, it makes sense to begin by exploring what psychology is. 

What Is Psychology? 

Psychology is the study of mental processes and behavior in animals, including humans. Most advances in this field have occurred over the last 150 years, with branches of psychology — such as clinical, cognitive, I/O, developmental and applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy — emerging during that time.  

Students who pursue psychology degrees focus on topics such as the following:  

• Learning and memory 

• Cognitive processes 

• Social interaction 

• Developmental issues 

• Clinical/personality studies 
• Statistics and research design 

Psychology students generally take courses related to specific concentrations within the field as part of their degree program. They learn about childhood development as an aspect of developmental psychology, for example, or they study psychopathology as part of clinical/personality psychology.  

Graduate programs typically allow students to specialize in an area of psychology. Through a master’s degree in I/O psychology, for example, students can build their expertise in psychological principles that affect employee performance, leadership, and organizational effectiveness. This program examines topics such as motivation, leadership, and personnel psychology. 

Psychology Is a Social Science 

Psychology is generally regarded as a social science major, with key characteristics that align with this field. Social sciences focus on human society and the relationships among people, groups, and the environment. The following are some ways that psychology is a social science: 

• Reliance on the scientific method: Using observation, measurement and experimentation to reach conclusions  

• Use of descriptive research: Describing and providing information about what occurs in cognitive processes and behaviors  

• Emphasis on causality: Identifying how one variable affects another in animals’ mental states and behaviors 

Psychology as Humanities vs. Social Science 

Scholars debate, however, which areas of study are included among social sciences. While scholars typically classify psychology as a social science, some believe it’s a humanities discipline. The humanities focus on subjective human experiences and emotions. 

The argument for psychology as a humanities discipline is that, like other majors in this category, its features include the following: 

• Emphasis on human behaviors and experiences: Examining how people think and interact with each other 

• Use of subjective data: Including self-reported data in research 

• Incorporating many disciplines: Drawing insights from various subject areas, from anthropology to sociology 

Why Major In Psychology? 

Whether it’s a social science or a humanities discipline, psychology offers benefits as a major. Undergraduate and graduate students may choose the flexibility of an online psychology degree or select an on-campus program. Below are some key reasons to major in psychology.  

Versatility 

A psychology degree can prepare students for careers in a wide range of fields, including the following: 

• Business 

• Community development 

• Conservation 

• Counseling 

• Education 

• Health promotion 

Demand 

Job growth for those working as psychologists will be faster than average between 2023 and 2033, according to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While the projected average growth rate for all jobs is 4 percent, the growth rate for psychologists is 7 percent.  

Additionally, the knowledge that a psychology degree provides can improve communication, encourage empathy and enhance time management. It’s also an important driver in adaptability and conflict mitigation, two skills that LinkedIn lists among its fastest-growing skills for 2025. 

Specialization 

Psychology degree programs typically offer opportunities to learn about the field’s specialized branches. Graduate students generally focus on one area of specialization, such as I/O psychology, allowing them to build expertise in their chosen area. 

Psychology Careers 

Numerous career options are available to individuals with undergraduate or graduate degrees in psychology. Common roles for psychology majors include the following: 

• Caseworker: Helping people address and overcome challenges, including community issues or child welfare concerns 

• I/O psychologist: Using psychological principles to address workplace problems and enhance work-life quality 

• Human resources specialist: Recruiting and interviewing job applicants and helping employees as they begin work for a company 

• Employment counselor: Assisting people in choosing and pursuing a career path 

• Organizational consultant: Recommending ways a business can improve its efficiency 

• Substance abuse counselor: Aiding and supporting individuals dealing with alcoholism or addiction issues 

Pursue an In-Demand Social Science Degree 

Psychology is a social science degree that offers various benefits and prepares students for a host of careers. If you’re interested in how this field of study can help you build your future, explore SEMO Online’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Arts in Industrial/Organizational Psychology degree programs. 

The bachelor’s program focuses on various branches of psychology and offers an optional precounseling track. The master’s program is an advanced degree emphasizing research or an internship. Both offer the flexibility of online learning while also providing individualized support from a nationally recognized university. SEMO also offers on-campus psychology programs for those who prefer in-person learning environments. 

Explore how SEMO Online’s psychology degree programs can help you pursue your professional goals.