Frequently Asked Questions

Whether measured in terms of popularity (number of students majoring in psychology or neuroscience), recognition of teaching excellence, or the number of students completing independent research and/or internships, the UWRF Department of Psychological Sciences is recognized as one of the finest departments on campus. We are especially proud of the quality of our faculty, all of whom are committed to teaching and who each represent a different area of psychological science. This configuration enables the department to provide a broad, rigorous academic program of basic and applied courses that prepare students for graduate school and the world of work.

We understand the importance of student-faculty interaction. Unlike many larger universities we work hard to provide access to faculty. All psychology and neuroscience majors receive one-on-one faculty advising and are strongly encouraged to complete at least one research project under the supervision of a faculty member. We also host several annual informal opportunities to interact with faculty and other students - a fall picnic, spring bowling party, departmental banquet, and Twins outing. 

The Psychological Sciences Department realizes that research experience is important both for students considering graduate school as well as those seeking employment directly after graduation. In addition to at least one mandatory research project as part of a research methods course, we encourage all students to complete independent research under the supervision of a faculty member or take an advanced research methods course. Each year, many students and faculty present their collaborative work at the annual meeting of the Midwestern Psychological Association in Chicago or other local, regional or national research conferences such as the National Council on Undergraduate Research. 

The Psychological Sciences Department realizes that applied experiences are important for both graduate work and direct employment. Psychology and neuroscience students at UWRF have access to applied experience via our internship program. 

Certainly one practical goal of a college education is employment. Knowledge about career opportunities, however, may be less certain. Upon graduation, most of our students work in fields related to human services, health care, or education. An increasing number of students either enter graduate program at the masters or doctoral level, with most of those entering either mental health counseling, school counseling, or school psychology. 

We have several programs designed to help new students adjust to college life and increase their academic success. All first-year psychology students are registered as part of a Psychology Learning Community. As part of this learning community, all first-year students see a special advisor who meets with them regularly and sets up special sessions for them to learn more about the university and the field of psychology. They also enroll in smaller, personalized sections of PSYC101: General Psychology and PSYC201: Behavioral Statistics. Similarly, a special introductory section of English 100: Academic Reading/Writing is reserved just for them. As they take several courses together, new majors become a cohort of connected and invested students. 

In addition, all first-year students are given a special advisor who meets with them regularly and sets up special sessions for them to learn more about the university and both the field of psychologyand neuroscience.

Applications and more information can be found at the Admissions Office web page. The Department of Psychological Sciences at UWRF is very proud of its students, faculty, program, and facilities. Please visit us during campus visit days. One of our faculty would be happy to talk with you and show you around the department.