The Psychological Science Graduate Program provides students with comprehensive training in psychological research and experimental methodology. During the program, students complete a structured set of core courses that serve to build and strengthen relevant knowledge, skills, and experiences. Students customize their curricular track and conduct original research based on their passions and the expertise of faculty (e.g., cognitive psychology, behavioral neuroscience, social psychology, animal behavior). The program prepares students to pursue doctoral study or for diverse career opportunities in academic and applied settings such as user experience research, data analysis, college instruction, and human resources.
Upon enrolling, students will meet with their faculty advisors to discuss academic objectives and to establish a research plan. Collaborative research that is developed in conjunction with a faculty advisor and that may lead to the student’s thesis is encouraged.
Admission Requirements
Students must meet the admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies, including a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum of a 3.0 GPA in the last 90 quarter (60 semester) hours. Applications that do not meet minimum GPA requirements may be considered on a case by case basis. Students should include three letters of recommendation along with a personal statement that outlines both their interest area(s) and potential faculty advisors. Applications are due Feb. 1st and review of applications will occur in Feb-March. Applications after this time will be considered and admission decisions after this point will be made on a rolling basis based on program capacity.
Prerequisites
Research Methods (PSY 300), Introductory Statistics (PSY 362) and, and Intermediate Statistics (PSY 363) or approved equivalents. Prerequisite courses may be taken concurrently with certain program courses.
Program Learner Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- write in the language of the discipline, using the elements of style described in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association;
- demonstrate an ability to analyze, review, understand, and interpret quantitative data and draw appropriate conclusions;
- critically evaluate and utilize common research designs and measurement tools in psychology;
- design, conduct, and communicate psychological research; and
- engage in scholarly and professional activities, including presenting research at formal and/or informal professional events.
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