Undergraduate Research

Student conducting an experiment with a professor

At Roanoke students have the opportunity to design and conduct experiments firsthand. Students planning to pursue graduate and doctoral studies in psychology are strongly encouraged to participate in additional research opportunities.

As a result of these opportunities, students have published their research as well as presented at regional and national psychology conferences.

Ways to Get Involved in Research

  • Applied Methods - Junior/Senior-level courses in which students carry out research in small groups.
  • Research Experience - a 1/4 credit course in which students assist faculty in their research. 
  • Research Practicum - a 1 credit course in which students assist faculty in their research.
  • Independent Study (empirical) - a 1 credit course in which students conduct their own empirical study under the direction of a faculty mentor.
  • Independent Study (literature review) - a 1 credit course in which students conduct their literature review under the direction of a faculty mentor.
  • Honors in the Major - a 1 credit course in which students conduct their own empirical study under the direction of a faculty mentor. The results of this research are presented to a committee during an honors defense. 
  • Summer Scholar - qualified students receive tuition, housing, and $2,500 to conduct research with a faculty mentor over the summer.
  • Work Study - eligible students receive an hourly wage assisting a faculty member with their research.

Research in the Psychology Department

Research Resources and Opportunities