Students are strongly encouraged to become involved with faculty research, and student research interests are often pursued through independent studies and honors projects. The majority of faculty offices and classrooms for the department of psychology are housed in Clough Hall. Facilities include an observational research laboratory for child development and social interaction research, a human psychophysiology laboratory, and individual testing and interviewing rooms. A fairly extensive psychology library is also housed in Clough Hall. Outside the Classroom Majors in the department often take advantage of internships which are offered for academic credit to gain practical experience in their particular area of interest.
Every internship is a unique fit for the student.
Internships are customized to each individual's career goals. Some students complete internships with psychologists working in clinical, business and human services agencies in the city. Majors also have the opportunity to conduct research with professors from Rhodes, the University of Memphis and UT Medical School. Recent graduates have held such positions as loan processor at Union Planters Bank, social worker for the Salvation Army, youth director at a nearby church, employment specialist at the MacDonald Center, guest services specialist with Holiday Inn Corporation, assistant language teacher for the Japanese Embassy, early intervention specialist for Memphis Alcohol and Drug Center, district executive for Boy Scouts of America, associate physical director of YMCA, day treatment counselor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and management trainee at National Bank of Commerce. Many psychology majors choose to pursue a post- graduate degree in psychology.