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Washington State University

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in faculty research labs and/or on faculty-led research projects as volunteers, for course credit, and in some cases, for part-time employment. These provide great experiences for anyone thinking of applying to graduate school, and employers also value the skills students gain from hands-on research experience.

Human Development faculty members are involved in a wide range of research topics on children, adolescents, and adults, and their families, and communities. Our faculty examine the biological, psychological, and contextual factors related to development across the lifespan, from infancy through older adulthood. These interdisciplinary projects provide students with opportunities to actively participate in cutting-edge research on topics with implications for programs and policies aimed at promoting healthy social-emotional and physical development.

Here’s what students and graduates are saying about research at WSU…

Colleen Chalmers Student, M.S. in Counseling San Diego State University“Working with Dr. Cooper was one of the best opportunities I had at WSU. Going through the entire research process as an undergraduate, from developing our ideas to presenting our research at conferences, was an experience that not only enriched my education, but also was impressive to graduate programs when I applied. I also got the chance to build a close relationship with my mentor, a relationship that I think too many undergraduates miss out on during their college experience. I never thought I had much interest in research, but I am forever grateful that I had this opportunity and now I am participating in research again in my graduate program! I cannot say enough good things about my experience, I highly encourage anyone who is interested to reach out to the HD department and find a project that matches their interests, or create their own!
Colleen Chalmers, Psychology & Human Development, 2015. Colleen is pursuing a M.S. degree in Counseling at San Diego State University

 

Kenzie Testimonial“Getting involved in undergraduate research has been one of my favorite experiences here at WSU. Through it I have made connections not only in my department, but all over campus and within the entire Pullman community. This experience has helped me to learn to solve real world problems, while making a true difference in peoples lives. I think that everyone should take the opportunity to get involved in research because it gives you the opportunity to learn, build connections, and create positive change in the world while you are still in school.”
Kenzie Selleg, Human Development (certification in adolescence) & Criminal Justice, minor in Political Science, May 2017 (expected graduation)