Psychology Specialist

• 1.0 credit from Intro Psychology courses: PSYA01H3, PSYA02H3.
• Explore different kinds of courses; this will also help with fulfilling breadth requirements and electives.
• Use Degree Explorer and our program checklists to plan your future courses.

• Get writing support at the CTL Writing Centre.
• Apply to the Psychology Department’s Budding Scholars program.
• Apply to the UTSC chapter of Psi Chi, the International Honour Society in Psychology.

• Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
• Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.

• Join the Psychology and Neuroscience Departmental Association (PNDA) to connect with students in neuroscience; explore other student groups as well.
• Volunteer in the Alternative Reading Week to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development; visit Department of Student Life (DSL) for details.

• Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on CLNx.
• Attend the UTSC Get Experience Fair in September and register with SCSU’s Volunteer Network Program to explore opportunities.

• Complete core courses in research, writing, and statistics: PSYB07H3, PSYB70H3, PSYC02H3, PSYC08H3 or PSYC09H3, and PSYC70H3.
• Begin taking B-level Psychology credits. Choose courses from both the 10-20 & 50-60 series.
• Use Degree Explorer to ensure you meet your degree and program requirements.

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS

• Consider completing a Supervised Study course [PSYB90H3].
• Seek out volunteer positions in faculty research labs.
• Apply to the Budding Scholars Research Award to receive funding toward a faculty-supervised project.

APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE

• Get involved in the Psychology & Neuroscience Undergraduate Journal Club to learn how to critically analyze scientific literature, and discuss articles with peers.
• Check out Global Research Abroad opportunities through the ISC to gain valuable international and research experiences.

BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)

• Check CLNx (<Jobs & Recruitment) for Work Study or volunteer positions on campus to gain experience and to get involved.
• Complete the Global Citizenship Certificate; look into Global Learning opportunities such as the Summer Abroad program and the Explore program through the International Student Centre (ISC).

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

• Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (<Jobs & Recruitment).
• Considering grad school?  Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
• Explore careers through the AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.

CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

• Complete PSYC85H3 and one of: PSYC06H3 / PSYC71H3 / PSYC72H3 / PSYC74H3 / PSYC75H3 / PSYC76H3.
• Continue taking B- and C-level PSY courses to meet the Breadth in Psychology and Additional Credits in Psychology requirements (check the UTSC Calendar for details).
• Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track with your degree.

• Consider completing a Supervised Study course [PSYC90H3].
• Compete for the UTSC Library Undergraduate Research Prize, the NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards, and the U of T Excellence Award (UTEA).

• Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.

• Run for an elected position in the Psychology and Neuroscience Departmental Association (PNDA).
• Take part in the Wellness Peer Programs in the Health & Wellness Centre to help foster a healthy community.

• Plan a career path with a staff member at the AA&CC.
• Check CLNx for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
• Attend the Graduate & Professional School Fair in September.

• 0.5 credit at the D-level from the PSY 10-20 series courses.
• 0.5 credit at the D-level from the PSY 50-60 series courses.
• Complete any remaining program requirements.
• Ensure you have at least 4.0 credits in your program at the C- or D-level.
• Register your “Intent to Graduate” on ACORN by the deadline.

• Consider completing a Thesis course [NROD98Y3]. Plan ahead to ensure you meet prerequisite requirements.
• Apply for a travel award through the DSL or Department of Psychology.
• Again, consider competing for UTSC Library, NSERC, and UTEA awards.

• Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for relevant summer and full-time positions.

• Participate in the AA&CC’s Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.

• Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
• Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course” and for access to full-time job listings.
• Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors and get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.