Get Involved
Psychological Sciences is one of the most popular majors at UConn—and for good reason. Our undergraduate curriculum prepares you to succeed in a wide variety of jobs and industries.
UConn PSYC majors and minors can also prepare for life after graduation by getting involved in research, internships, student organizations, study abroad, and other experiences outside the classroom.
Through these opportunities, you’ll learn more about your interests, expose yourself to new ideas, gain professional skills, and build a network that will support you beyond UConn.
Ways to Get Involved
Research
Getting involved in research as an undergraduate doesn't just build your resume. It can help you:
- define your academic goals,
- get exposure to new interests and career pathways,
- learn valuable transferable skills that can be used in any career or industry
- build meaningful relationships with your professors and peers.
UConn psychological sciences majors can take advantage of opportunities through faculty research labs and independent projects. These experiences can be the high point of your college experience and give you the skills you’ll need after graduation.
Internships
Internships are work/learning experiences that give you the opportunity to apply your coursework to real-world problems and gain professional connections with employers. Psychological sciences students are encouraged to incorporate at least one internship in their academic plan, typically during their sophomore or junior year.
PSYC majors who would like to earn credit for an internship can enroll in PSYC 3880 with permission from the undergraduate office. PSYC 3880 internship sites can be on or off campus.
Clubs and Organizations
By getting involved in student clubs and organizations, you can explore topics you're passionate about, expand your social circle, and build professional skills that employers value. UConn offers hundreds of organizations and learning communities open to PSYC majors. Examples include:
- Psi Chi, an international honor society that advances the science of psychology and supports educational excellence for its members.
- Psychology Club, which promotes success and brings together students who have a shared love of psychology.
- Learning communities like EcoHouse and Women in Math, Science, and Engineering (WiMSE).
Visit the UConntact website to search student groups by category.
Study Abroad
Studying abroad can expose you to different cultures and perspectives and provide you with unparalleled opportunities to grow as a student.
UConn PSYC majors can study in many exciting places around the world. Explore abroad experiences for students in psychological sciences. Through careful planning with your advisor, you can take part in this transformative experience while earning credits toward your degree.
Students who are interested in studying abroad should first meet with a peer advisor during drop-in hours before meeting with an academic advisor in the advising office. The purpose of these meetings is to help you determine what types of courses you must take abroad.
The Department of Psychological Sciences offers three very exciting summer abroad opportunities:
May in Florence, Italy
This May semester program will take place in Florence, Italy, the historical center of the Renaissance. Students will take one course and will earn 3 credits.
Learn more about the program and how to apply.
For more information, please contact Professor Leslie Burton.
Summer Neuroscience in Salamanca, Spain
UConn Summer Neuroscience in Salamanca is a five-week program that offers students the chance to study neuroscience and Spanish culture by becoming immersed in the vibrant life of this truly unique city. Students enroll in one neuroscience course and one Spanish class to earn 6 credits.
Learn more about the program and how to apply.
For more information, please contact Professor Douglas Oliver.
Summer in Tel Aviv, Israel
UConn Brain and Behavior in Tel Aviv is a five-week program that gives students a chance to pursue their studies in psychology, cognitive science, and neuroscience. Participants will take two classes to earn 6-7 credits; they will also take part in organized activities and tours.
Learn more about the program and how to apply.
For more information, please contact Professor Etan Markus.