All students in the Experimental and Industrial-Organizational track complete a 6 credit, thesis-like, Plan B Research Project. Students in the Clinical Counseling Track can choose the Plan B option or take 6 additional course credits instead (Plan C).
The Plan B research project involves conducting an empirical research project or meta-analysis under the direction of a faculty advisor. The project must be designed and conducted by the individual student. The topic, however, may be based upon the research program of the faculty advisor.
Students generally write their research proposal during their first year in the program and orally present their proposal to an examination committee by the end of the first year. Once approved, students will pursue IRB approval and can begin data collection, which typically takes place in the fall of the second year. Students completing the Plan B project must submit a final research paper and pass an oral defense as part of the requirements for graduation.
