Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I have an incomplete (G) grade in Introduction to Psychology (PSY 0010)?
Students who did not complete the research participation requirement for Introductory Psychology, and thus received an incomplete grade (G) in that course, should visit www.pitt.edu/~cslewis/sspool/g.html for instructions on how to handle their problem. Doing otherwise may cause long delays in getting the (G) grade changed.
How do I declare my major in psychology?
To declare a psychology major PRIOR to September 7, 2009, students must have completed or currently be enrolled in the following three courses: PSY 0010 (Introduction to Psychology), STAT 0200, 1000, or 1100 (Statistics), and PSY 0035 (Research Methods).
To declare the psychology major ON OR AFTER September 7, 2009, students must have completed PSY 0010 and STAT (0200, 1000 or 1100) with a "C" or better and be enrolled in PSY 0035.
Newly declared majors are required to complete the New Major Online Orientation PRIOR to scheduling an appointment with their assigned advisor. The Orientation link is located on the right side bar and on the homepage.
Why should I see my advisor?
You will need to meet with an advisor for a pre-registration appointment. It is best to do this early in the semester in order to be prepared for your enrollment appointment.
Advisors are available throughout the year to discuss course planning, internships, directed research opportunities, the honors program, career options, and graduate training. All you have to do is make an appointment!
How do I register for courses?
See registration page.
Can I transfer credits into the Department of Psychology?
Students with transfer work from another college or university should be aware that some transfer courses may not satisfy the psychology major requirements. Specifically, transfer courses in Research Methods (PSY 0035), Learning & Motivation (PSY 0405), and Cognitive Psychology Lab course (PSY 0423) may not have included the requisite writing and laboratory components. Students with transfer work they would like evaluated should fill out a petition form and return it to their advisor. If you are not a declared psychology major you can return your petition to the Advising Office 3117 Sennott Square during walk-in hours.
How do I choose my related area of study?
Twelve credits in any other School of Arts and Sciences department is acceptable for a related area. We recommend that you take their career goals into consideration when making a decision about your related area.
Can I take courses on a satisfactory or audit basis (S/NC)?
Those majors who declare on or after September 7, 2009 are required for take ALL courses used to fulfill the major requirements for a letter grade; the S/NC grade option may not be used for PSY major courses (with the exception of PSY 1900 & 1903, which are only graded on an S/NC basis).
Although majors who declared PRIOR to September 7, 2009 are permitted to take courses on an S/NC basis, please be advised that most graduate and professional school, and many employers prefer to see standard letter grades on a transcript.
Where is the advising office, and when it is open?
The undergraduate advising office is located at 3117 Sennott Square. It is open Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 4. p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. – noon.
How do I make an appointment in the advising office at other times of year?
Call us at 412-624-4540.
Does the Advising Office offer walk-in services?
Yes. We offer walk-in services Monday-Thursday 10:00am-2:00pm and Friday 9:00am- 12:00. Walk-in advising is designed to schedule appointments, answer quick questions, and drop off paperwork. Walk-in appointments are generally 5-10 minutes; this is to ensure quick service to all students with walk-in type needs.
Where can I find the requirements for a psychology degree?
See requirements page.
Can I study abroad?
Yes. For more information, please see the Study Abroad Office.