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Psychology

Directed Studies

Directed Studies (DS) courses make it possible for one or more students to work under the guidance of a faculty member on a reading or research project of mutual interest. DS courses are not to duplicate material covered in other Psychology courses, and should contain an element of originality. Ideally, the course should be based on some issue associated with a topic rather than simply a survey of a topic.

Reasons to pursue directed studies courses include:

  • To follow a reading or research project in an area not covered in any of the other Psychology courses
  • To develop research interests
  • To gain practical experience and involvement in psychological research
  • To attempt to obtain publications as an undergraduate
  • To continue a well-developed project begun in another course

Three primary approaches are recognized:

  • An extensive literature review of an issue
  • Series of related short papers where different aspects of an issue are explored
  • A research project

Prerequisites/Requirements:

  • There are three directed study options, each with specific requirements/prerequisites (in italics):

    • PSYC 493A (3 credits) - This is an independent reading and research in topics course, selected in consultation with a supervising instructor. Before registering, students must have department permission and a contract completed with their potential faculty supervisor. Additionally, students typically require a minimum GPA of 3.00. A declared major or extended minor in Psychology is recommended.

    • PSYC 493B (3 credits) - This course is designed for students who wish to engage in directed studies further to those completed in PSYC 493A. Before registering, students must have department permission and a contract completed with their potential faculty supervisor. Additionally, students typically require a minimum GPA of 3.00. Students must be Psychology Majors.

    • PSYC 495 (5 credits) - This is an independent research or field experience course, selected in consultation with a supervising instructor and the Psychology Department. Before registering, students must have department permission and a contract completed with their potential faculty supervisor. Additionally, students typically require a minimum GPA of 3.00. Students should have completed 90 credits, and must be Psychology Majors.

    Other considerations:

  • If you wish to complete a Directed Study at some point during your degree, it is helpful to develop relationships with potential advisors when taking their courses in 2nd and 3rd year.
  • Some faculty supervisors may have additional requirements, including requiring certain courses as pre- or co-requisites or requesting letters of interest or other application materials. Students interested in Directed Studies should therefore contact potential supervisors before the semester starts to discuss details/requirements (note that these details/requirements must also be approved by the Department Head and Dean)
  • A maximum of 8 credits completed through Directed Study courses can count towards a Major in Psychology
  • Depending on the Directed Study arranged with your potential supervisor, you may also need to complete the TCPS2 Core certificate, allowing you to collect or use data.


If you have any questions or need the Directed Studies Application form, please contact the Psychology department assistant.

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