The Department of Psychology emphasizes the scientific study of behavioral, affective, and cognitive processes and their application to real-world issues by engaging students in integrative learning experiences such as undergraduate and graduate research, internships, and enhanced classroom experiences.
Faculty excellence in areas of teaching, research, and service provides the context for collaborative student-centered learning experiences that promote inclusion and diverse perspectives. The department's curriculum furthers the development of students' critical thinking, communication skills, research skills, quantitative reasoning, and ethical behavior in preparation for responsible citizenship, careers, graduate study, and lifelong learning.
鈥淢y research interests include applying behavioral parent training strategies to the classroom to help teachers better manage student behavior. Undergraduate students work with me on projects examining teachers鈥 natural rates of praise statements and finding simple strategies to increase teachers鈥 use of praise. Students also work with me on projects examining pediatric sleep problems and intervention. These research experiences benefit students who are interested in working with children, teachers, and families."
"My research interests are how to improve teaching and learning in the classroom, particularly with the use of technology. I also am interested in the biological impact of psychological stress. I supervise research projects of undergraduate and graduate students who conduct research on a variety of topics.鈥
鈥淚 enjoyed having a psychology major and I am so glad I chose to do it. I loved all of my psychology classes, found them interesting, and learned a lot. I learned diverse psychological elements that can be applied to many areas of my life. I believe everyone should at least have a psych minor because it will benefit them in any field they pursue.鈥
Susan Gruszka (2024)鈥淭he psychology program at EIU was a fantastic experience. It helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself, other people, the brain and how the mind operates, and the world around me. Also, the professors I had really invested in my confidence in my academic skills and both ensured and celebrated my potential for success in the field. The personalized one-on-one support from faculty and being able to truly work individually with my peers were instrumental in achieving my degree. I felt supported and encouraged by my professors every step of the way, which isn鈥檛 something I would have been able to say if I was attending a larger university鈥檚 psychology program. The psychology department faculty were not only highly knowledgeable but also willing to engage in additional discussions, provide extra resources, and offer valuable advice to enhance my undergraduate experience and make it the best it could be. Choosing to major in psychology at EIU was definitely the right decision for me and something I don鈥檛 regret one bit!鈥
Kenneth Ingle (2024)鈥淭he psych department is very personal, and you will know all your classmates and professors on that personal level, which makes the work towards your degree easier to go through.鈥
Hannah Lineman (2024)"Choosing 糖心视频's Psychology program was one of the best decisions I ever made for academic and personal growth. From the first day, I was not just a number in a class. I was part of a community that genuinely cared about my success and growth as an up-and-coming psychologist and researcher. The faculty at this institution go above and beyond. They don't just teach. You're guided, challenged, and encouraged to question and probe assumptions. With experiences like service-learning projects, advanced statistics courses, and being able to carry out independent research for my honors thesis, I gained hands-on skills that I have no doubt will set me apart in grad school and beyond. EIU's Psychology program prepares you for your profession and assists you in discovering who you are and what type of legacy you want to leave. From learning alongside my classmates, using tools such as Qualtrics, and even engaging in good debate regarding human behavior, I felt I was building something greater than a degree. If you are looking for a program that will challenge you, direct you, and prepare you to excel in whatever you endeavor, EIU's Department of Psychology is the place for you."
Ryan Butler (2025)Physical Sciences - 1151
600 Lincoln Ave.
Charleston, IL 61920
217-581-2127
lsashley@eiu.edu