Research training
The Research stream emphasizes independent research and scholarship, and prepares students for a variety of careers both inside and outside academia.
Overview
A unique aspect of our program is that students in either the Research Option or Research and Clinical Training Option can conduct research supervised by any faculty member in the department.
Research topics span applied issues, including bilingualism, psychopathology, high-risk populations, aging and health psychology, as well as theoretical questions in human cognition, social and developmental processes, and animal behavior models.
Research opportunities
Students in our graduate program receive research resources and support from a faculty member upon entry, joining a research team that is typically focused on one of four specializations: Behavioural Neuroscience, Clinical and Health Research, Cognitive Science or Human Development. Research tackles a wide range of topics, including drug dependence, cognitive processes, and anxiety disorders. Students present their research at conferences and publish in scientific journals, and gain high-level expertise by completion of the Ph.D.
Program sequence
Due to the emphasis on research, course requirements are kept minimal.
Upon entry into the M.A., students require at least one year of full-time study. This includes the thesis, coursework in psychological theory and advanced statistics, and research specialization seminars. The Ph.D. program builds on this foundation with advanced independent research, specialized coursework, teaching opportunities, and requires a minimum of three years of full-time study.
All students take courses in Central Topics in Psychology and Statistical Methods, with electives based on the department's four research specializations. Research seminars and special topic seminars are offered annually, providing students opportunities to engage with their supervisors and research teams.