Independent research is part of each student's major program. The major and minor also include significant training in writing. In addition to writing a full length APA-style paper, students write several term papers and research proposals in various courses. In many cases, students are given the opportunity to submit drafts of papers in order to get feedback on how they might improve. It is expected that all students will own and use a copy of the APA Publication Manual, which most students will purchase as a required textbook in PS214 .
All students get experience with oral presentation of material in one or more upper level seminars.
Such experience usually involves presentations to the class, and sometimes includes selection of assigned course readings and moderation of class discussion. Extensive feedback is provided for future improvement. Students with particular interests are encouraged to take additional courses in these areas of interest. You should work closely with your advisor to choose the program of study that best matches your interests.