senior thesis
overview
The senior thesis program is a research intensive program recommended for anyone considering a career in psychology but is highly recommended for those considering a Ph.D. You will work with a professor on a research project, from start to finish, by designing the research project, gathering all necessary data, writing up your findings and presenting your findings.
requirements
- Psychology Intermediate Major or Full Major status.
- A minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Current involvement in a research lab or previous lab experience.
- Sponsorship by a Psychology Department Faculty member or Graduate student.
- If an applicant has not met one of the above conditions, the research mentor must include a request and an argument for the student to be considered for the senior thesis program.
apply
The following materials must be submitted by November 2 or March 15 by 5:00 pm to the PAC, BEHS 507.
- Current DARS or transcript that shows current GPA and research experience credits (If research experience was not taken for credit, a letter from the research lab coordinator verifying your experience).
- A letter of support from the intended advisor (Faculty member or Graduate student that will be working with you on the project).
- A 1-page personal statement about how the proposed project will further your career goals.
- A 2-3 page research prospectus detailing the proposed thesis project and outlining a timetable for completion; including the semester you plan to present at a departmental poster session. The prospectus should be completed in collaboration with your research advisor.
The prospectus must include:
- specific aims and question (~ 250 words)
- proposed method (data collection, analysis of archival data, etc. ~ 150 words)
- a timeline for the project (~ 150 words)
- An outline of your academic plan that details when you completed or will complete coursework in research methods and statistics.
