Over the years, faculty in the Psychology Department have noticed that several key factors distinguishing successful students from less successful students. The following are tips for success for declared Psychology majors or those who may be considering one of the programs.

Advising
Successful psychology majors meet with their advisor as soon as they decide to major in this field. Your advisor can you in taking required courses in the proper order to lead you toward graduation at the earliest possible opportunity. Your advisor can also help you with the steps necessary to meet your post-graduation goals; some steps need to be in place two-to-three years before graduation. Do not depend on academic advice from friends.

Course Sequencing
Many courses in the Psychology department have pre- or co-requisites. It's important to take your classes in numerical order (i.e., take your 2000-level classes only after you've finished all of your 1000-level classes, take your 3000-level classes after you've finished your 2000-level classes, etc).

Some of our courses are offered just once or twice each year. Consult the Four-Year Cycle of Courses for information on when each course is offered so you can plan your schedule accordingly. To make sure you observe pre- and co-requisites and important course sequencing, follow the plan of study established in consultation with your advisor.

Key Courses
Take PSY 1030 right away and PSY 1020 as soon as you have completed PSY 1010. These courses provide you with skills and information you need to maximize your learning and minimize frustration. PSY 1020 and PSY 1030 are required for all four bachelor's programs. You must take both courses within your first two semesters as a Psychology major in any concentration.

Support Courses
Each of our four bachelor's programs has recommended support courses. While these are not required, they do help you to be more successful in the required courses while also applying toward the 120 s.h. necessary for graduation. Support courses recommended for each program can be found in the Undergraduate Bulletin.

Writing Skills
Successful Psychology majors have strong writing skills. If you have not already taken the Writing Assessment, schedule your assessment now and complete any recommended writing courses in your first three semesters of enrollment. Contact the Writing Center schedule yourself for the Assessment.

Professionalism
Successful psychology students recognize their reputation is very, very important. You want to be known for your honesty, integrity, mature demeanor, dedication to your coursework and collegiality in the classroom with faculty and peers. Since any job or graduate program you might apply to will request a letter of recommendation from a faculty member of the Psychology Department, give some thought to how you want to be perceived.

Participation in Departmental Events
Successful majors deepen their involvement in the field by joining the Psychology Club and participating in the range of events it has to offer. Savvy majors also get to know their psychology instructors by attending office hours or scheduling appointments to talk. Faculty can help you with career advice and networking connections, but only if you've taken the time to develop a relationship with them.