Frequently Asked Questions
Psy 3902W: Major Project
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose an option?
Consider what you'd like to achieve in your Major Project as your capstone experience in psychology. Would you like to investigate a specific aspect of the discipline or profession? (Individual Interest Project) Would you like to further your understanding of psychological research? (Research Lab Project) Or would you like to explore how the discipline of psychology can be connected to your community? (Community Engagement Project) You may have other goals, too. If so, think about which option will best help you meet those academic and professional goals. If you're not sure, discuss your thoughts with a Psychology Advisor (psyadvis@umn.edu).
Can I register for the section that's most convenient and then choose any of the three options?
Unfortunately, no. Part of determining which option you'll choose includes careful review of the Class Schedule. Each section of Psy 3902W will be clearly indicated as one of the three major project options (research lab, community engagement, or individual interest). Be sure to register for the section that reflects your choice. As with any other course, the number of available seats within each section will be listed and once the section is full, you will only be able to register for that section if another seat opens up. Essentially this could mean that you may need to be prepared to make a second choice for the type of major project you will complete.
But it's only 3 credits! What do I do? I was counting on 4 credits in Psy 3902W to meet the 36 credit requirement for the major.
We've planned an easy solution for you! This year only (Fall 07 and Spring 08), Psychology will offer Psy 3902W students an option for concurrent enrollment in Psy 3960: Major Project in Psychology Supplemental Seminar (1 credit). For your convenience, this class will held during the major project time period on weeks when there is no Major Project lecture, so that there will not be any scheduling conflicts with your other courses. In this single credit seminar, you will participate in reading, discussing and writing about a book of contemporary significance in the field of psychology. To register for the single credit supplement, register for Psy 3902W and then email Psychology Advising for a Psy 3960 permission number. This option is only available to students whose graduation would otherwise be effected by the change of the major project from 4 to 3 credits.
- Prerequisites.The prerequisites for the course have not changed. You must have completed Psy 2801, Psy 3001W and distribution requirements A-C before enrolling. Contact Psychology Advising (psyadvis@umn.edu) if you have concerns.
- Structure & Evaluation: The basic course structure (lecture and lab) and final products (final paper and poster) are the same. On-line lecture viewing will still be an option.
- Choice! What's new is the opportunity to choose a major project that reflects your interests and future plans. For two of the options (Research, Community Engagement), there are additional specific expectations that support your learning in those areas.
- Credits The class credit load has been reduced from 4 to 3. For the 2007-08 academic year only, a single credit supplement is available and will easily fit into your schedule.
I am so confused! Where do I get some help figuring out what I need to do?
Psychology Advisors are here to help you. Contact us right away to set up an appointment to discuss your particular situation. Phone: 612-625-8520. Email: psyadvis@umn.edu .