As a condition for earning the master's degree, students are required to complete either a thesis, an internship, or both. The thesis is an in-depth, original research project conducted under the direction of a faculty mentor and evaluated by a faculty committee. Students who anticipate continuing their education at the doctoral level are strongly encouraged to select the thesis option. Policies and procedures for development of the thesis are outlined in the Department of Psychology Graduate Student Handbook.

Where to Start:

• Research faculty research interests early to discover those with interests similar to yours
• Be sure to pick up a copy of the Handbook for Thesis Prep, which is available in the Psychology Department Office. This useful resource will serve as a guide for how to complete your thesis

Past and Current Thesis Topics:

• Predictability of Longitudinal Rater Leniency (Andrew Kavulic; past student)
• The effect of employment at-will policies on attitudes toward potential employment (Jesse McKinney; past student)
• Interviewer Perceptions Mediated by Interviewee's Regulatory Focus (Jess Doll; past student)
• The Effects of Employment At-Will Policies on Employer Attractiveness (Jesse McKinney; past student)

Thinking of getting your doctorate?

Though most students come to Appalachian with the intention of entering the workforce after they earn their Master's degrees, our students have a strong record of continuing on to top doctoral programs. In recent years, 100% of our students who have chosen to continue at the doctoral level have been able to do so. Doctoral programs accepting our students in recent years have included the University of Akron, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and Auburn University.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• It's important to get involved with research early
• Contact faculty members early in during your time at ASU and inform them of your desire to attend a doctoral program. This will help them guide you on your path to a Ph.D. program, as well as provide useful contacts for research help, thesis guidance, and sources for letters of recommendation.