Frequently Asked Questions
How do I declare my major in psychology?
To declare a psychology major, students must have completed or currently be enrolled in the following three courses: PSY 0010, 0012, or 0015 (Introduction to Psychology), STAT 0200, 1000, or 1100 (Statistics), and PSY 0035 (Research Methods).
Several group orientation sessions for new majors are scheduled each term before registration. New majors must attend one of these orientation sessions. Information about dates, times, and location of these sessions can be found by calling 412-624-4540.
Why should I see my advisor?
You will need to meet with an advisor every time you register. If you have questions about requirements and/or registration, you should plan to meet with an advisor at least one week before registration appointments begin.
Advisors are available throughout the year to discuss internships, directed research opportunities, the honors program, career options, and graduate training. All you have to do is make an appointment!
Why do I need an appointment at the advising office during registration period?
Psychology is the largest major in the School of Arts and Sciences, so registration is a very busy time in our office. Registration appointments are generally only 20 minutes long and are scheduled consecutively. You will need to sign up for a registration appointment in person during the appropriate sign-up. Then, you will need to come to your appointment on time and prepared. If you are late or not ready, you will have to reschedule for a later date.
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 for Majors (PSY 0420) 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?
Although we permit our majors to take any course on an S/N basis, students should realize that most graduate and professional schools, and many employers, prefer to see standard grades on the 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. Other times are available by appointment.
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.
What is experiential learning?
In short, it’s learning through experience, such as an academic internship, a research internship or a service-learning project. See (link to experiential learning page).
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.