Master of Arts (M.A.) Major in Psychological Research (Thesis Option)
Program Overview
The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree with a major in Psychological Research is designed to foster competence in the methodological foundations and conduct of psychological research across a wide variety of settings. Students will gain expertise regarding the impact of biological, social, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral factors on psychological phenomena. Focus is placed on learning interpersonal/research skills and statistical competencies relevant to the responsible and ethical conduct of both basic and applied psychological research.
Evaluation of Student Fitness and Performance
Members of the faculty, using their professional judgments, evaluate student fitness and performance continuously. The criteria used by the faculty to make such judgments include instructors’ observations of student performance in class or in activities related to courses. Students who are not making satisfactory progress or who are not meeting program standards should consider withdrawing from the program.
In this context, the term “satisfactory progress” refers to an academic judgment made regarding the student’s fitness and performance. It is a judgment that the student has failed to meet program standards rather than a judgment made on the basis of the student’s violation of valid rules of conduct. Disciplinary matters are referred to Dean of Student’s Office.
Student Review Process
If a faculty member believes that a student is not making satisfactory progress or meeting program standards, he or she should discuss the situation with the student. If the faculty member believes that the student’s performance cannot improve to acceptable standards, the faculty member should refer the student to the Program Standards Committee of the appropriate department. The Program Standards Committee consists of three faculty members appointed by the Department Chair in consultation with the department’s senior faculty.
The Committee will notify the student of the reasons that he or she is not making satisfactory progress or meeting program standards and will give the student an opportunity to meet with the Committee to respond and to present information and witnesses to the committee. The Committee will also meet with the faculty member who referred the student to the Committee. After considering the matter, and within ten working days of meeting with the student, the Committee will report to the student and the Department Chair. The Committee will recommend that the student either be allowed to remain in the program or be removed from the program. The committee may make other recommendations, such as placing restrictions or conditions on the student’s continuing in the program. Within ten working days of receiving the Committee’s recommendations, the student will be notified of the Department Chair’s decision (acceptance or rejection of the committee’s recommendation).
Within ten working days of receiving the Committee’s recommendation, the Chair will make a decision as to the student’s continued presence in the program. Before making the decision, the student will have the opportunity to meet with the Chair and to offer information on his/her behalf. However, the Chair need not meet with the student before making a decision if the Chair has given the student a reasonable opportunity to meet, and the student has either failed or refused to meet. The Chair will notify the student of the decision.
If the student is dissatisfied with the Chair’s decision, he or she may appeal to the Dean of the Graduate College. However, in order for an appeal to be considered, the student must submit a written notice for an appeal to the Chair and to the Dean within ten working days of receiving the Chair’s decision. The Dean will consider the matter based on information compiled by the Chair and notify the student of his or her decision within ten working days of the Dean’s receipt of the appeal from the Chair. The Dean may meet with the student and give the student an opportunity to address the issues. The Dean’s decision is final.
Application Requirements
Application requirements consist of institutional and program requirements for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Additional information and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website.
Unless otherwise noted on The Graduate College program page, AI tools can only be used to correct spelling and grammar errors in application materials.
Institutional Requirements
Institutional requirements are the minimum standards for admission to any graduate program at Texas State. These include:
- Completed online application
- Nonrefundable application fee
- Degree Programs (Doctoral and Master’s)
- $55 fee, or
- $90 for applications with international credentials
- Post-Baccalaureate Programs (Certificate, Certification, Non-Degree, and Visiting)
- $20 fee, or
- $60 for applications with international credentials
- Degree Programs (Doctoral and Master’s)
- Official transcripts from each institution where course credit was granted. Final transcripts showing degree completion are required before the student may register for their second term of enrollment.
- GPA requirements (a higher GPA may be listed in the Program Requirements)
- Doctoral programs require a 3.00 overall GPA or a 3.00 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
- Master’s and Specialist programs require a 2.75 overall GPA or a 2.75 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
- Post-Baccalaureate programs require a 2.50 overall GPA or a 2.50 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
- Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university. (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our International FAQs for more information.)
Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores
Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our exempt countries list. Some programs may restrict acceptable tests or require higher scores than the institutional scores; this will be noted in the Program Requirements.
- official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall if taken on or before January 21, 2026
- official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 4 overall if taken after January 21, 2026
- official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
- official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
- official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
- official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall
- official Texas State Intensive English Program score of 90% or higher in the highest-level course (level 5)
The institution does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.
Application Requirements
Application requirements consist of institutional and program requirements for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Additional information and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website.
Unless otherwise noted on The Graduate College program page, AI tools can only be used to correct spelling and grammar errors in application materials.
Institutional Requirements
Institutional requirements are the minimum standards for admission to any graduate program at Texas State. These include:
- Completed online application
- Nonrefundable application fee
- Degree Programs (Doctoral and Master’s)
- $55 fee, or
- $90 for applications with international credentials
- Post-Baccalaureate Programs (Certificate, Certification, Non-Degree, and Visiting)
- $20 fee, or
- $60 for applications with international credentials
- Degree Programs (Doctoral and Master’s)
- Official transcripts from each institution where course credit was granted. Final transcripts showing degree completion are required before the student may register for their second term of enrollment.
- GPA requirements (a higher GPA may be listed in the Program Requirements)
- Doctoral programs require a 3.00 overall GPA or a 3.00 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
- Master’s and Specialist programs require a 2.75 overall GPA or a 2.75 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
- Post-Baccalaureate programs require a 2.50 overall GPA or a 2.50 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).
- Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university. (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our International FAQs for more information.)
Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores
Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our exempt countries list. Some programs may restrict acceptable tests or require higher scores than the institutional scores; this will be noted in the Program Requirements.
- official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall if taken on or before January 21, 2026
- official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 4 overall if taken after January 21, 2026
- official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
- official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
- official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
- official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall
- official Texas State Intensive English Program score of 90% or higher in the highest-level course (level 5)
The institution does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.
Program Requirements
- a 3.0 overall GPA or a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses)
- minimum 3.0 GPA in the following prerequisite courses:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Quantitative and Statistical Methods
- Experimental and Research Methods
- GRE not required
- research interest statement listing three faculty members in the Texas State Psychology Department whose research interests most closely match the student’s
- resume/CV including prior experience in research or clinical areas, awards, and scholarships
- statement of purpose (approximately 1–2 pages) conveying research interests, plans for graduate study, professional aspirations, and career goals. Students should indicate how their scholarly interests fit with those of specific faculty members in the Department of Psychology, as well as any relevant experience, special abilities, or skills (e.g., computer programming, fluency in another language).
- three letters of recommendation from non-related individuals familiar with the student’s scholarly work and/or relevant experience
Degree Requirements
The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree with a major in Psychological Research requires 38 semester credit hours, including a thesis.
In addition to meeting the University standards, students are required to follow department policies. The policy of the department on grades is that a student must complete all required courses with a grade of "B" or better. Students who make a grade of "C" or worse in a required course will be required to retake the course. A student will be placed on probation for receiving two grades of "C" or worse in the program. A student whose current degree audit reflects 3 "C"s in required courses will be dismissed.
At the midpoint of each semester, faculty will be asked to provide information to the Graduate Director regarding any students having potential problems with grades. The Graduate Director or Designee will meet with students in danger of making "C"s or worse in their program courses.
The Graduate Director or Designee will review all students’ grades at the end of each semester and send written notification to those students who make grades of "C" or worse explaining their status and any required actions.
Course Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| PSY 5198 | Research Seminar (Taken twice) | 2 |
| PSY 5311 | Univariate and Bivariate Statistics | 3 |
| PSY 5321 | Multivariate Statistics | 3 |
| PSY 5324 | Biological Bases of Behavior | 3 |
| PSY 5391 | Research Design and Methods | 3 |
| Prescribed Electives | ||
| Choose 18 hours from the following: | 18 | |
| Advanced Developmental Psychology | ||
| Advanced Psychopathology | ||
PSY 5318 | ||
PSY 5320 | ||
| Neuropsychological Assessment | ||
| Foundations of Health Psychology | ||
| Psychopharmacology | ||
| Health Psychology: Prevention and Intervention | ||
| Psychological Therapies | ||
| Cognitive Neuroscience | ||
| Forensic Psychology | ||
| Advanced Statistical Methods | ||
| Cross-Cultural Psychology | ||
| Individual Study | ||
| Research Seminar in Social Psychology | ||
PSY 5370 | ||
| Human Memory and Memory Disorders | ||
| The Psychology of Language | ||
| Introduction to Psychophysiology | ||
| Internship in Psychology | ||
| Thesis | ||
| PSY 5399A | Thesis | 3 |
| Choose a minimum of 3 hours from the following: | 3 | |
| Thesis | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Total Hours | 38 | |
Comprehensive Examination Requirement
All students in the Psychological Research Program are required by the University to take and pass a comprehensive examination in order to graduate. Thesis students will have their Comprehensive Examination administered orally as part of their thesis defense. If students fail the defense, they are allowed to repeat it until they pass.
Students who do not successfully complete the requirements for the degree within the timelines specified will be dismissed from the program.
If a student elects to follow the thesis option for the degree, a committee to direct the written thesis will be established. The thesis must demonstrate the student’s capability for research and independent thought. Preparation of the thesis must be in conformity with the Graduate College Guide to Preparing and Submitting a Thesis or Dissertation.
Thesis Proposal
The student must submit an official Thesis Proposal Form and proposal to his or her thesis committee. Thesis proposals vary by department and discipline. Please see your department for proposal guidelines and requirements. After signing the form and obtaining committee members’ signatures, the graduate advisor’s signature if required by the program and the department chair’s signature, the student must submit the Thesis Proposal Form with one copy of the proposal attached to the dean of The Graduate College for approval before proceeding with research on the thesis. If the thesis research involves human subjects, the student must obtain exemption or approval from the Texas State Institutional Review Board prior to submitting the proposal form to The Graduate College. The IRB approval letter should be included with the proposal form. If the thesis research involves vertebrate animals, the proposal form must include the Texas State IACUC approval code. It is recommended that the thesis proposal form be submitted to the dean of The Graduate College by the end of the student’s enrollment in 5399A. Failure to submit the thesis proposal in a timely fashion may result in delayed graduation.
Thesis Committee
The thesis committee must be composed of a minimum of three approved graduate faculty members.
Thesis Enrollment and Credit
The completion of a minimum of six hours of thesis enrollment is required. For a student's initial thesis course enrollment, the student will need to register for thesis course number 5399A. After that, the student will enroll in thesis B courses, in each subsequent semester until the thesis is defended with the department and approved by The Graduate College. Preliminary discussions regarding the selection of a topic and assignment to a research supervisor will not require enrollment for the thesis course.
Students must be enrolled in thesis credits if they are receiving supervision and/or are using university resources related to their thesis work. The number of thesis credit hours students enroll in must reflect the amount of work being done on the thesis that semester. It is the responsibility of the committee chair to ensure that students are making adequate progress toward their degree throughout the thesis process. Failure to register for the thesis course during a term in which supervision is received may result in postponement of graduation. After initial enrollment in 5399A, the student will continue to enroll in a thesis B course as long as it takes to complete the thesis. Thesis projects are by definition original and individualized projects. As such, depending on the topic, methodology, and other factors, some projects may take longer than others to complete. If the thesis requires work beyond the minimum number of thesis credits needed for the degree, the student may enroll in additional thesis credits at the committee chair's discretion. In the rare case when a student has not previously enrolled in thesis and plans to work on and complete the thesis in one term, the student will enroll in both 5399A and 5399B.
The only grades assigned for thesis courses are PR (progress), CR (credit), W (withdrew), and F (failing). If acceptable progress is not being made in a thesis course, the instructor may issue a grade of F. If the student is making acceptable progress, a grade of PR is assigned until the thesis is completed. The minimum number of hours of thesis credit (“CR”) will be awarded only after the thesis has been both approved by The Graduate College and released to Alkek Library.
A student who has selected the thesis option must be registered for the thesis course during the term or Summer I (during the summer, the thesis course runs ten weeks for both sessions) in which the degree will be conferred.
Thesis Deadlines and Approval Process
Thesis deadlines are posted on The Graduate College website under "Current Students." The completed thesis must be submitted to the chair of the thesis committee on or before the deadlines listed on The Graduate College website.
The following must be submitted to The Graduate College by the thesis deadline listed on The Graduate College website:
- The Thesis Submission Approval Form bearing original (wet) and/or electronic signatures of the student and all committee members.
- One (1) PDF of the thesis in final form, approved by all committee members, uploaded in the online Vireo submission system.
After the dean of The Graduate College approves the thesis, Alkek Library will harvest the document from the Vireo submission system for publishing in the Digital Collections database (according to the student's embargo selection). NOTE: MFA Creative Writing theses will have a permanent embargo and will never be published to Digital Collections.
While original (wet) signatures are preferred, there may be situations as determined by the chair of the committee in which obtaining original signatures is inefficient or has the potential to delay the student's progress. In those situations, the following methods of signing are acceptable:
- signing and faxing the form
- signing, scanning, and emailing the form
- notifying the department in an email from their university's or institution's email account that the committee chair can sign the form on their behalf
- electronically signing the form using the university's licensed signature platform.
If this process results in more than one document with signatures, all documents need to be submitted to The Graduate College together.
No copies are required to be submitted to Alkek Library. However, the library will bind copies submitted that the student wants bound for personal use. Personal copies are not required to be printed on archival quality paper. The student will take the personal copies to Alkek Library and pay the binding fee for personal copies.
Master's level courses in Psychology: PSY
Courses Offered
Psychology (PSY)
PSY 5105. Practicum in Teaching Psychology.
This course examines processes and strategies designed to improve the teaching and learning process for graduate students serving in teaching and instructional roles. Students are introduced to instructional theory and selected concepts, issues, and strategies of planning, delivery, and evaluation. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practices, university policies, and student support resources within the department. Through module-based learning and reflective assignments, students bridge the gap between psychological science and instruction to effectively fulfill their roles in supporting university courses. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.
1 Credit Hour. 1 Lecture Contact Hour. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Graduate Assistantship|Exclude from Graduate GPA
Grade Mode: Leveling/Assistantships
PSY 5198. Research Seminar.
This course, taken in two consecutive semesters, provides an orientation to the graduate program and the steps required for capstone completion. Content includes development of research interests, critique of scholarly literature, and topic selection. The course addresses preparation of research proposals, selection of capstone committees, and principles of ethical conduct in research. Emphasis is placed on professional development and communication skills necessary for the dissemination of psychological science within academic and professional contexts.
1 Credit Hour. 1 Lecture Contact Hour. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5199B. Thesis.
This course represents continuous enrollment for students completing a thesis. The course involves supervised research conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor and thesis committee, including development, execution, and documentation of an original research project. Content includes advanced research design, data analysis, and preparation of a thesis manuscript in accordance with disciplinary standards. Enrollment continues until the thesis is completed and approved by the committee.
1 Credit Hour. 1 Lecture Contact Hour. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit
PSY 5299B. Thesis.
This course represents a student’s continuous thesis enrollment. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students will complete their thesis research project and write their thesis manuscript. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. During this phase of training, students will continue to enroll in this course until the thesis is completed and approved by the committee to ensure scientific excellence.
2 Credit Hours. 2 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit
PSY 5306. Advanced Developmental Psychology.
This course provides advanced coverage of biological, social, and cognitive development. Students explore classic and contemporary issues in developmental science, including individual differences, sensitive periods, and the mechanisms underlying developmental stability and change. Emphasis is placed on the critical analysis of theoretical approaches and empirical research to deepen specialized domain knowledge and understanding of developmental science methodologies. Content and discussion facilitate connections between core developmental themes, other psychological domains, and applied contexts. Prerequisite: PSY 3300 with a grade of "C" or better.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5310. Advanced Psychopathology.
This course provides an in-depth, evidence-based examination of the major psychological disorders across the lifespan. Students will engage with contemporary theories and empirical research on the etiology, maintenance, remediation, and prevention of psychological disorders. Issues in assessment and diagnosis, including the strengths, limitations, and ethical considerations of diagnostic practices, will be highlighted. Students will learn to apply the clinical criteria described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in psychological research contexts. Prerequisite: PSY 3315 with a grade of "C" or better.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5311. Univariate and Bivariate Statistics.
This course introduces students to univariate and bivariate statistical concepts and techniques that are used in psychological research. Topics may include descriptive statistics, power analysis, and hypothesis testing using techniques such as correlations, linear regressions, t-tests, ANOVAs, and chi-square tests. Emphasis will be placed on the applied aspects of data analysis rather than the theoretical aspects. Students will learn to understand, apply, and interpret the outcomes of univariate and bivariate statistics in the context of psychological research. Prerequisite: PSY 2301 with a grade of "C" or better.
3 Credit Hours. 2 Lecture Contact Hours. 1 Lab Contact Hour.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5321. Multivariate Statistics.
This course is designed to introduce students to the common multivariate statistical techniques that are used in psychological research. Topics may include partial correlation, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), multiple regression, moderation, indirect effects analyses, polynomial regression, and logistic regression. Emphasis will be placed on the applied aspects of data analysis rather than the theoretical aspects. Students will learn to understand, apply, and interpret the outcomes of multivariate statistical techniques in the context of psychological research. Prerequisite: PSY 5311 with a grade of "B" or better.
3 Credit Hours. 2 Lecture Contact Hours. 1 Lab Contact Hour.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5324. Biological Bases of Behavior.
This course explores how the human nervous system generates and influences behavior. Students will learn the basic structures and functions of the nervous system, as well as the neural bases of mental processes and social behavior. Topics will include neurophysiological techniques used in clinical and non-clinical research. Emphasis will be placed on how injury or dysfunction in specific neural systems can alter cognition, emotion, and behavior, highlighting the relevance of neuroscience to psychological assessment and intervention.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5326. Neuropsychological Assessment.
This course provides students with an introduction to the science and practice of neuropsychological assessment. Students will apply knowledge of brain-behavior relationships in the assessment of neuropsychological functioning. Topics will include an overview of neuropsychological assessment procedures and the interpretation of results, covering a range of neuropsychological conditions that students may encounter as researchers in the field of psychology. Students will also gain hands-on experience in the administration of several neuropsychological assessment instruments.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5335. Foundations of Health Psychology.
This course surveys contemporary theory and research on body–mind interaction in physical and mental health. Emphasis is placed on a multidisciplinary perspective to examine the interplay of biological, social, psychological, and behavioral factors in illness. Topics include stress and coping, health-promoting behaviors, theories of behavior change, and psychosocial aspects of chronic illness. Major conditions are examined through a biopsychosocial framework, with a focus on research design, measurement, and protocol development relevant to health psychology research and practice.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5345. Psychopharmacology.
This course explores research on psychoactive drugs and their effects on brain function and behavior in humans and animals. Topics include motivations for the use of mind-altering substances and the neuronal mechanisms through which drugs exert their effects. The course examines environmental and contextual factors that influence drug effects. Emphasis is placed on therapeutic and iatrogenic effects of psychoactive drugs in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric conditions.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5348. Health Psychology: Prevention and Intervention.
This course focuses on primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention and intervention strategies to enhance people’s health and wellness. Topics include theories of health behavior change, strategies to prevent or reduce risky health behaviors, strategies to increase health-promoting behaviors, strategies to improve the process of medical care (e.g., screenings for illness, patient-centered communication and care), and strategies to increase treatment adherence. Emphasis is placed on the planning, implementation, and assessment of psychological interventions, especially for populations with chronic disease.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5352. Psychological Therapies.
This course introduces students to core psychotherapy skills through the lens of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and its “third-wave” variants. Topics will include the use of CBT and related approaches, such as dialectical behavior therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, to treat a range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. Emphasis will be placed on the practical application of CBT-based interventions, with attention also given to relevant theoretical, ethical, and developmental considerations.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5360R. Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
This course provides an overview of Industrial/Organizational Psychology with an emphasis on psychological processes in work settings and their application to organizational contexts. Drawing on the scientist-practitioner tradition, the course examines how I/O psychologists use theory and evidence to analyze work, workers, and organizations. Topics include job analysis, recruitment, leadership, well-being, and the future of work. Students examine workplace issues and apply psychological principles within organizational settings using research-based approaches.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5362. Cognitive Neuroscience.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the neural bases of human cognitive processes, approaching this issue from both current and historical perspectives. Students will explore the various biological structures and processes underlying perception, attention, memory, emotions, language, executive functions, and decision-making. The interactions between emotions and cognitive processes will be discussed. Students will examine the methods used to study neural support of cognition and will learn to evaluate scholarly work in this area of research. Prerequisite: PSY 3322 with a grade of "B" or better.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5363. Forensic Psychology.
This course examines the relationship between psychology and the criminal justice system. Emphasis is placed on how psychological variables influence the ways in which individuals carry out their duties within the system. Topics will include jury decision-making, the accuracy and impact of eyewitness testimony, and how the characteristics of defendants may influence juries. Competency to stand trial and sanity (mental state at the time of the offense) will be discussed, along with the assessments used in their evaluation. Prerequisite: PSY 1300 with a grade of "C" or better.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5364. Advanced Statistical Methods.
This course introduces advanced quantitative approaches to testing individual differences, evaluating psychometrics, and understanding relationships between variables in psychological research. The emphasis in this course will primarily focus on deepening students’ understanding and application of regression-based statistical models. Topics include the generalized linear model, an introduction to principles underlying structural equation modeling, and multilevel modeling. Students will gain hands-on experience working with these analysis techniques. Analyses will be implemented primarily in the R statistical programming environment.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5365. Cross-Cultural Psychology.
This course provides a graduate-level introduction to psychological theories and research methods that examine relationships between culture and human psychological processes and behavior in the United States and internationally. Students analyze how cultural norms, values, and social roles are learned through interaction and how these processes shape identity and behavior. The course develops methodological skills required to design and conduct research in cross-cultural psychology.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5366. Individual Study.
This course provides an opportunity for students to pursue intensive research or specialized skill development in psychology beyond the scope of standard coursework. Under faculty supervision, students design and execute a personalized learning contract that includes an overall project plan, detailed reading list, and specific schedule of activities. The experience culminates in a high-level final product, such as a scholarly presentation, a research paper of publishable quality, or a comprehensive literature review. Instructor approval is required for enrollment. Prerequisite: PSY 5391 with a grade of "C" or better and instructor approval.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5367. Research Seminar in Social Psychology.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of current research within the field of social psychology. Students learn about the influence of various social contexts on human behavior through an examination of social cognition, attitudes, and group processes. Emphasis is placed on the intersection of theory, methodology, and real-world applications including stereotypes, prejudice, interpersonal relationships, and social dynamics. Instruction focuses on how social factors fundamentally shape experiences, with attention also given to the relevant theoretical and ethical considerations within the field.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5373. Human Memory and Memory Disorders.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of human memory systems and the cognitive and neural factors that influence memory across the lifespan. Foundational theories of memory are introduced and integrated with contemporary research in cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, and cognitive neuroscience. Special emphasis will be given to problems with memory including forgetting, aging memory, amnesia, and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. This seminar course features student-led discussions, critical analysis of current research studies, and a culminating project.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5374. The Psychology of Language.
This course examines the cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying human language production, comprehension, and acquisition. Emphasis will be placed on language processing, as well as the use of language in different contexts across the lifespan. Topics will include bilingualism, language development, language in aging, atypical language processing and disorders such as aphasia and dyslexia, and language and society. This is a seminar course that emphasizes critical reading and evaluation of primary research, student-led discussion, and integrative thinking.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5381. Introduction to Psychophysiology.
This course provides an overview of the principles, theory, and applications of using physiological measures to study mental processes. It will illustrate how the use of psychophysiological measurements can enhance our understanding of relationships between the brain/mind and behavior and will focus on experimental design, signal acquisition, preprocessing, and analysis, as well as common methodological challenges such as artifact management. Students will gain hands-on experience with measuring electrodermal activity, cardiovascular activity, and electroencephalography (EEG) through structured laboratory activities.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5388. Independent Psychological Research.
This course involves students developing and conducting independent psychological research under the direct supervision of a faculty mentor. This independent research serves as the culmination of the final capstone project for the non-thesis degree in Psychological Research. Instruction emphasizes the systematic development of a scholarly project, from initial design through final dissemination. Students demonstrate research maturity by navigating institutional requirements and producing professional-level work suitable for academic publication or presentation in various psychological research and professional contexts. Prerequisite: PSY 5391 with a grade of "B" or better and instructor approval.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5391. Research Design and Methods.
This course provides an overview of common research designs and methods used in psychological research. Students will learn about foundational concepts in psychological research design and considerations for planning and implementing projects. Emphasis will be placed on research with human participants and cover a variety of design approaches. Topics will include different types of study designs, reliability and validity of research instruments, and the practical and ethical considerations associated with the conduct of research in clinical and non-clinical participant populations.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 3 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5398. Internship in Psychology.
This course involves supervised, extensive fieldwork within a professional setting specifically related to the field of psychology. Students apply foundational psychological principles to real-world environments while gaining practical experience under the guidance of site supervisors and departmental faculty. Emphasis is placed on the integration of theoretical knowledge, ethical practice, and professional skill development within real-world organizational contexts. Academic requirements focus on the bridge between graduate-level research training and applied psychological services. Prerequisite: PSY 5311 and PSY 5321 and PSY 5391 all with grades of "C" or better and instructor approval.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Standard Letter
PSY 5399A. Thesis.
This course represents a student’s initial thesis enrollment. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students gain skills in advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. No thesis credit is awarded until the student has completed the thesis in subsequent courses. Instruction emphasizes the systematic development of a scholarly project and the navigation of institutional research requirements. Students engage in the foundational stages of inquiry to ensure methodological rigor and theoretical alignment.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit
PSY 5399B. Thesis.
This course represents a student’s continuous thesis enrollment. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students will complete their thesis research project and write their thesis manuscript. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. During this phase of training, students will continue to enroll in this course until the thesis is completed and approved by the committee to ensure scientific excellence.
3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit
PSY 5599B. Thesis.
This course represents a student’s continuous thesis enrollment. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students will complete their thesis research project and write their thesis manuscript. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. During this phase of training, students will continue to enroll in this course until the thesis is completed and approved by the committee to ensure scientific excellence.
5 Credit Hours. 5 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit
PSY 5999B. Thesis.
This course represents a student’s continuous thesis enrollment. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students will complete their thesis research project and write their thesis manuscript. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. During this phase of training, students will continue to enroll in this course until the thesis is completed and approved by the committee to ensure scientific excellence.
9 Credit Hours. 9 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit
