NEW WILMINGTON, Pa. - Twenty-eight Westminster College psychology and neuroscience majors, including three research scholars, presented their capstone projects Dec. 13 in the Hoyt Science Resource Center. 

The capstone is a four-semester-hour (minimum) course within the major designed to provide an opportunity for students to evaluate and assess the strengths and limitations of their major field. During the course students conduct an in-depth two-semester research project. Students in the research scholars program complete a more in-depth three-semester research project. In addition to the capstone presentations, psychology and neuroscience students present their data at appropriate regional or national conferences.

Faculty advisors for the psychology capstone projects are: Dr. Kirk Lunnen, associate professor; Dr. Robin McGovern, assistant professor; Dr. Jamie McMinn, associate professor; Dr. Mandy Medvin, professor and chair of the department; Dr. Sherri Pataki, associate professor; and Dr. Sandra Webster, professor.

The capstone experience permits opportunity for structured reflection on the value of education in and beyond the major and provides an opportunity to strengthen communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the experience allows the opportunity for students to be published and to list the accomplishment on their resumes.

"Students work closely with faculty to develop research projects that provide valuable insight into psychological processes," Medvin said.  "Graduates of our program tell us that the skills they gained from their capstones prepared them extremely well for their future careers."

Contact Medvin at (724) 946-7360 or email for more information.

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