FAQs: Learning Climate

Do Cognitive Psychology faculty collaborate with faculty in other Programs or Departments?
Yes, this is very common. Cognitive psychology faculty members are currently collaborating with faculty in the Perceptual and Brain Sciences and Industrial/Organizational Psychology Programs, as well as the Departments of Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Health and Exercise Science, Music, and Occupational Therapy.

What is the typical relationship between faculty members and students?
The Cognitive Psychology Program operates according to a mentorship model in which students work closely with one or two advisors and as part of a research team. Students take on more independent projects and responsibilities as they progress through the program. Students often work on projects with faculty members other than the advisor and are encouraged to do so. Outside of formal teaching and advising, the relationship between faculty and students is very collegial. There is frequent informal interaction between faculty and students on campus and at Program social events.

How are students assigned to advisors?
An initial assignment is made based on mutual interests.

Can a student change his/her advisor while in the Program?
Often the research interests of students will evolve as they receive their graduate training and it may be beneficial for a student to change advisors to a faculty member whose interests are a better match. In the Cognitive Psychology Program, students may change advisors upon mutual consent of the faculty member and student.

Can a student pursue a different research interest than his/her advisor?
It is not required that students pursue the same research interests as their advisor. A similarity in interests is beneficial for the advisor to provide optimal guidance, however. It is up to the advisor whether he/she is capable of and interested in advising a research topic outside of his/her primary area. Students wishing to pursue interests different from their primary advisor should discuss the nature of the matter with their advisor. 

Can students work with more than one faculty member within the Program?
Most definitely. We highly encourage students to work with other faculty members within and outside of the Program in addition to working with their advisor. Some students choose to have co-advisors and are welcome to do this with the consent of both faculty members.

Can students work with faculty members or take classes from other departments?
Yes, students are encouraged to do so, especially when these activities directly contribute to one’s training goals.