First year graduate students will initiate a research project.

Special topics or courses of an experimental nature.

Independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member.

Introduction to methods used in conducting research on human behavior. Experimental research emphasized, but course covers other methods and some statistics.

In this supervised research capstone, graduate students take their first major step as independent psychological scientists. Working closely with a faculty advisor, students will conceptualize, design, execute, and defend an original empirical research project. From formulating a novel hypothesis to navigating the ethical review process and analyzing complex data, this course translates foundational scientific theory into rigorous, applied research. The experience culminates in a publication-ready manuscript and a formal oral defense, laying the groundwork for advanced doctoral study and specialized careers in psychology.

Varied methods are also used to evaluate learning progress and facilitate knowledge acquisition (e.g., individual/group exercises, quizzes, exams, essay assignments). Students’ critical thinking will be broadened in three ways. After taking this course, they will be able to (1) evaluate adult development and aging from a life-span developmental perspective, (2) be mindful of stereotypes and myths associated with older people and the process of aging, (3) apply the learned knowledge to prepare for a fulfilling century-long life, and (4) acquire basic understanding of research proposal presentations in aging research. 

Independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member.

Independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member.

An introduction to teaching biology for undergraduate teaching assistants, with a focus on effective teaching, active engagement of students, and development of innovative classroom activities.

The second of a two course sequence in which selected students conduct original work under the direction of a faculty member.