85-800 Proseminar

12 units, Carnegie Mellon University

This proseminar provides first-year doctoral students in psychology with an introduction to the professional, scholarly, and research practices necessary for success in graduate school and beyond. The course develops foundational skills in evaluating and integrating empirical literature, generating and refining research questions, designing methodologically sound studies, and effectively communicating scientific work in both written and oral formats. Students will engage deeply with research in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and social/health psychology, approaching each area in a rigorous way that emphasizes foundational theories, current thinking, cutting-edge methodologies, and opportunities for cross-area collaboration. Class sessions combine faculty-led presentations, student discussions, and practical assignments that foster critical thinking, scholarly writing, and presentation skills. By the end of the semester, students will be equipped with the tools to begin independent research and to participate fully in the broader scientific community as emerging scholars.

Prerequisites: none listed

Offered: Spring 2026, Fall 2025

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