The new minor gives undergraduate students hands-on research experience with faculty and a better understanding of how people think, learn, and grow.

In spring of 2022, the Department of Educational Psychology is launching a new educational psychology research minor for undergraduate students. The minor was designed for students majoring in educational psychology-related areas (e.g., education, psychology, or social sciences) who are interested in gaining research experience. Future educators looking to improve the effectiveness of their teaching through better understanding of evidence-based practices may also be interested in declaring the new minor. All University of Minnesota undergraduates may apply.

“We are excited to introduce research to the next generation of educational psychologists,” says Kathy Seifert, director of undergraduate studies in the Department of Educational Psychology, lecturer, and coordinator for the new minor.

According to Seifert, “Our goal is for students to complete the minor and be ready for what’s next—whether that’s including real-world research experience on their graduate school or job applications; using scientifically proven methods in their teaching; or just having a better understanding of how humans think, learn, and grow.”

Emily Bellinger recently earned her BS in psychology at the UMN. She has taken two of the core classes included in the new minor and is currently conducting research with Educational Psychology faculty. 

“Being involved in research has been one of the most beneficial and influential experiences during undergrad. I have not only had the opportunity to explore my interests in a capacity that helps to develop my knowledge and skills. But I have also had the chance to meet and connect with many amazing professionals in the field,” Bellinger says.

The Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota is consistently ranked among the top graduate programs in the country and was ranked number ten in 2021 which Seifert says is an advantage of the program.*

“Our faculty are some of the leading researchers in educational psychology. All of our minor students will have the opportunity to work with them on innovative and relevant research projects before they even complete their undergraduate degree.”

Undergraduate students will be able to declare an educational psychology research minor beginning in spring semester 2022.

*U.S. News & World Report, 2021