Psi Chi International Honor Society

The MCLA chapter of the Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology was installed in December 2002. Psi Chi, founded in 1929, is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS) and is affiliated with the American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Psychological Society (APS). Psi Chi functions as a federation of chapters from more than 975 colleges and universities. A National Council of psychologists elected by the chapters guides the affairs and sets policy with the approval of the chapters.

The purpose of Psi Chi shall be to encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship of the individual members in all fields, particularly in psychology, and to advance the science of psychology.

Psi Chi Goals

The International Society provides immediate academic recognition to its inductees, and provides programs, conventions, research award competitions, certificate recognition programs, national and chapter awards, research grants, and national service projects. The Society's local chapters offer a nurturing climate congenial to members' creative development. 

Psi Chi awards and grant - for more information visit psichi.org

  • total over $400,000 in funds available annually.
  • offer a smaller pool of competitors than many other programs, because the majority are open only to members.
  • are available to undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty members.
  • take the form of stipends, grants, and awards.
  • have application deadlines throughout the year.
  • fund regional research, travel to conventions, and in some cases, unrestricted travel to psychology-related events.
  • are peer reviewed by volunteer doctoral faculty.

Membership Benefits

To some, the intrinsic value of this achievement is enough - realizing that what you do does make a difference. But there are also tangible benefits: 

  • Documents - a membership card and certificate - give evidence of your membership. 
  • References are provided to potential employers. 
  • Working with Psi Chi is excellent experience for bolstering a resume; every little bit helps when applying for that crucial first job.

Psi Chi is a springboard for professional growth. Opportunities are readily available to promote research, receive national and international recognition, meet leaders in the field, and meet other future leaders in Psi Chi.

The United States Government recognizes Psi Chi as meeting one of the requirements for entrance at the GS-7 level of Federal Service.

Membership Requirements

Completion of at least 3 semesters, including at least 9 credit hours of psychology courses

Registered in a Psychology program (major or minor)

Ranking in the upper 35% of your class, with an overall GPA of at least 3.00, and a GPA of 3.00 for psychology courses

For additional information, contact advisor, 
Dr. Sara Steele; Sara.Steele@mcla.edu