Professor in Psychology
Above all, it was the connections that Alivia Zubrod ’17 made during her time at Mount Mercy University that inspired her to achieve a career in academia.
Study of individual behavior and experience
Use critical thinking to solve human behavioral problems.
The goal of the major is to provide an empirical and theoretical understanding of the basic knowledge, concepts, and methods of psychology.
Though such understanding may lead to greater personal insight, the study of psychology is focused primarily on a body of empirical knowledge and theoretical formulations that aim to predict and explain behavior.
The approach emphasizes both critical evaluation of evidence and awareness of the implications of psychological knowledge and theory for the lives of persons. Most psychology courses emphasize self-awareness and critical thinking.
A major in psychology is intended to prepare students for advanced study or entry into pre-professional employment. A psychology major also may function as the core of an educational program in preparation for continuing informal learning.
Courses in basic skills for human service workers and internship in psychology are included to facilitate application of basic knowledge in real-life settings.
Because of this program, I was able to complete an internship at Covenant Family Solutions, which evolved into a job, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to make great friends and connections.
Mady Roth '20
Psychology, Pre-Occupational Therapy
Mady Roth ’20 discovered her passion for occupational therapy at Mount Mercy University.
Amy McGlynn '18 and Marco Fichtner '17
Psychology | Marketing & International Management
Marco Fichtner ’17 and Amy McGlynn ’18 were able to build many relationships while at Mount Mercy, including their own.
Cassidy Courey '21
Marketing & Psychology
Cassidy Courey ’21 is competitive both at the lanes and in the classroom, balancing a coveted spot on the Junior Team USA bowling team with academic success.
Megan Andresen '94 and Shelby Sorensen '18
Biology & Pre-Physical Therapy | Psychology & Criminal Justice, Pre-OT
As a biology major with dreams of becoming a physical therapist, Megan Andresen ’98 volunteered to work with people with disabilities in the local community.
Emma Lantz '21
Criminal Justice, Psychology
Once on campus, Emma Lantz has been working hard to keep the Mercy spirit alive.
Alaina Elliot '20
Psychology
Alaina Elliott juggles school work, extracurriculars, and recently had her work published in the Iowa Psychologist Association’s newsletter.
Curriculum
Interactive approach, engaging curriculum.
Mount Mercy University’s psychology program places students directly into internships and research opportunities, providing real-life work experience – even before graduation.
Through Mount Mercy’s respected ties to community organizations, students develop work experience and connections which place them ahead of other eastern Iowa psychology majors. Guided by an interactive approach, engaging curriculum and faculty-student research, students develop valuable critical thinking, counseling and research skills.
What are the next steps?
Mount Mercy offers competitive tuition and generous scholarships.
We also encourage all students to apply for federal, state, and other kinds of financial assistance.
Learn more about:
- Federal and state grants and loans
- MMU-offered scholarships
- Tuition reimbursement from employers
- 10% tuition discount for employees of partner organizations
- Veterans benefits such as the Yellow Ribbon program and G.I. Bill®
We make it easy by accepting applications year-round! No deadline, no fee, no pressure.
- Create your application
- Apply under standard admissions criteria or go "test optional"
- Request official transcripts from all institutions previously attended. Mail to:
Mount Mercy University Admissions
1330 Elmhurst Drive NE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402
For more detailed instructions on how to apply, see our Admissions page.
Careers in psychology
Be ready to start your career in a diverse field.
Graduates from MMU’s psychology program have become case workers, mental health professionals, care providers, therapists, counselors and human resource staff members, working for local social services, government agencies and beyond.
Mount Mercy’s psychology graduates have found jobs nationally and locally:
- Tanager Place
- Four Oaks
- The ARC
- Linn Co. Human Services Dept.
- Young Parents Network
- ADAPT of Illinois
- Lutheran Social Services