Undergraduate Psychology Research
Psychology at U.R.I. strongly encourages students to get involved in conducting research throughout their college careers. These experiences help prepare undergraduate students for entering the psychology profession immediately after graduation. Furthermore, undergraduate research is essential for those who choose to pursue advanced studies at the graduate level. Graduate students in psychology are encouraged to work with undergraduate research students because this experience will enhance their graduate-level credentials and provide valuable experiential learning.
There are many incentives for conducting or supervising undergraduate research in psychology at our University. For instance, numerous departmental awards are available each year for undergraduate students who serve as research assistants or conduct their own research projects. Both faculty and graduate students may nominate their undergraduate research students for these awards.
Undergraduate Departmental Award Information
Our students have also won regional awards through Psi Chi, The National Honor Society in Psi Chi.
Information about these regional award winners
Both graduate and undergraduate students are encouraged to present their completed research projects at professional psychological conferences. Funding for travel and lodging is often available through the Hope and Heritage Fund, the Arts and Sciences Dean's Office and Dean Winifred Brownell's External Advisory Council of Alumni. President Robert L. Carothers and the Office of Student Life have also strongly supported this educational research initiative by providing conference funds for many of our students. Our chapter of Psi Chi andThe U.R.I. Psychology Club routinely organize fund-raising events to help with conference costs for their members. Finally, members of our Psychology Club can receive funding for conference attendance from the U.R.I. Student Senate. Graduate students who supervise undergraduate researchers can receive funding through some of these sources, as well.
Conference Attendance Information
The Psychology Department now provides a workspace, designated for the use of undergraduate students. Members of Psi Chi or The Psychology Club now have free access to our new Undergraduate Research Room in Chafee 203, Kingston campus. The room contains a conference table, desks, and computers with internet access for undergraduate students to use, as they participate in club or research activities. Graduate students and faculty who mentor undergraduates are also welcome to use these facilities.
