Psychology students at both the undergraduate and graduate level develop strong skills in scientific thinking, as well as a thorough understanding of psychological principles that can be applied to both their academic research and the real-world issues their work seeks to address.
All undergraduate psychology majors complete capstone projects that integrate and utilize the skills and key concepts learned throughout their coursework. Capstones are highly customizable in collaboration with a faculty adviser and can involve a field placement or research, both of which are tailored to help students gain practical experience and make an impact as they launch their careers.
Undergraduate students also have a unique opportunity to showcase their work, and potentially win an award, at Lewis College's Undergraduate Research Day. Hosted annually by the college, this event highlights research projects, internship experiences, creative projects, and senior capstones from students in humanities, psychology, and social sciences departments.
Graduate students in the Department of Psychology are exposed to research methods through their coursework, conduct their own research projects, and may also assist faculty in ongoing research. Additionally, the Center for Research and Service has many opportunities for students to work and gain experience; project-based funding is available for students who work at the center.
Many clinical students work part-time in a clinical research setting for at least some of the time they are at Illinois Tech. Although not arranged by Illinois Tech, these positions are typically excellent psychology experiences (e.g., as research assistants or neuropsychology testing technicians) and are often passed down from Illinois Tech student to Illinois Tech student.
Individual faculty members may have research grants that fund student effort. Although not guaranteed, the Department of Psychology often offers funding opportunities to help cover costs of student research projects (e.g., recruitment expenditures, material costs, participant incentives). It also often offers funds for student travel to conferences to facilitate the presentation of student-authored research.
