UMN Department of Psychology

Does anyone have experience with the Department of Psychology at the University of Minnesota? I'm considering studying psychology, and I'd love to know if UMN has a strong program and good research opportunities for undergraduates.

I've heard that the University of Minnesota (UMN) has a well-regarded psychology program. They offer both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in psychology, which allows you to choose the path that best suits your interests and future goals. The BA focuses more on a broad liberal arts education, while the BS has a stronger emphasis on research and scientific methodology.

UMN's Department of Psychology is known for its diverse range of research areas, which include clinical science and psychopathology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, personality, individual differences, and behavioral genetics, among others. This breadth of research interests enables you to explore various subfields as you find your niche in psychology.

As for research opportunities for undergraduates, UMN is committed to involving motivated students in ongoing research projects early in their academic journeys. The department offers a program called the University Research Opportunities Program (UROP), which provides funding for undergraduate research projects under the mentorship of faculty members. Additionally, you can gain hands-on research experience by participating in the Undergraduate Honors Program, which requires you to complete an honors thesis in collaboration with a faculty member.

In terms of resources, the Department of Psychology is housed in the Elliot Hall, which contains state-of-the-art labs and research facilities. This infrastructure further supports the department's commitment to research and education in the field of psychology.

Overall, the University of Minnesota's Department of Psychology appears to have a strong foundational program and ample research opportunities for undergraduate students. While it's essential to visit the campus, attend events, and engage with students and faculty to get a holistic view of the program, the resources and opportunities mentioned above suggest that UMN could be an excellent choice for pursuing a psychology degree.