Psychology majors are afforded the opportunity to engage in meaningful scientific research as part of their undergraduate studies. They often do this by assisting with a faculty member’s on-going research efforts or by working on a more independent research project under the guidance of a faculty member. Many honor’s students complete an undergraduate thesis under the direction of a faculty mentor. Students often take a Directed Study course in psychology to earn undergraduate credit hours as part of their research effort. Gaining research experience in psychology is highly recommended for all students who are interested in continuing their academic pursuits beyond the undergraduate level.

Psychology majors are also offered the opportunity to gain practical experience in psychology by completing undergraduate practicums. These practicums are arranged in either a clinical/counseling setting or in an applied industrial setting to permit students to gain experience in the area of psychology that they find interesting. Students frequently enroll for credit in a Practicum course as part of their effort in this area. Placements for the Clinical Practicum Course include any service agency that allows client contact. Almost all of the agencies listed as volunteer opportunities in the undergraduate handbook may be used as placements. Students interview with prospective sites, so matches are made by area of interest and compatibility with supervisors. Examples of placements include Patrick B. Harris Hospital, Marshall Pickens Hospital, Foothills Rape Crisis Center, Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County, and Applied Behavior Analysis with autistic children in the community.

For additional information about majoring in psychology at Clemson University, please see the Psychology Undergraduate Handbook