Experimental Program: Frequently Asked Questions
Experimental Program FAQ
Applicants are required to have completed the following courses:
- Introductory Psychology
- Research Methods
- Statistics (either as a standalone course or embedded within a Psychology Research Methods course)
At least 3 from the following:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Physiological/Behavioral Neuroscience
We offer a strong set of methodology and statistics courses which will prepare students not only for their thesis work but also for PhD programs and employment. The coursework will not likely transfer to a PhD program, but the research experience you gain will make you a stronger candidate for PhD programs.
Yes. Application fee waivers are available for McNair Scholars, Americorps participants, and students submitting a second graduate admissions application within the same admissions cycle. The Graduate School also will consider requests based upon financial need. To request an application fee waiver, contact Michael Barr, the Associate Dean of the Graduate School office at gradschool@wwu.edu
We do not consider GRE scores in the admission process.
The MS Experimental Program is not fully funded. We try to offer a competitive financial package that includes some Teaching Assistantships and partial to full tuition waivers for our most outstanding candidates. However, we are unable to fund 100% of a student’s experience. Even our best package requires students to self-fund for 1-2 quarters. The financial support we offer our grad students is generous compared to other Master’s-level psychology programs, but it will certainly be less than competitive doctoral programs .
Teaching assistantships are available on a very limited basis. Some students will receive a teaching assistantship for 1-2 quarters per year. During that one quarter, the student will receive a stipend and substantial tuition waiver. For more information please see the Teaching Assistantships page.
If you are interested in being considered for teaching assistant positions, be sure to submit a current resume with your application that includes your work and volunteer history.
The MS Experimental Program is a completely in-person, full-time commitment. Classes meet in person every day of the week.
The MS Experimental Program is a full-time program and incompatible with full-time employment. Classes are held during business hours during the week. Some students find they are able to work at part-time, flexible jobs. We encourage students who intend to apply to PhD programs to spend as much time outside of classes as possible conducting research.
A breakdown of tuition and fees for the MS Experimental Program can be found on the Graduate Tuition and Fees page.
Yes.
We enroll about 5 to 10 students each year. The typical cohort size is 6 students.
Yes, we do accept applications from international students. International applicants can find important information here:
