Every student is expected to become involved in research when he or she begins the program and to continue this involvement during his or her course of study. Ideally, each student participates in a faculty member's research program; after developing appropriate knowledge and skills about this domain, the student demonstrates expertise by completing a thesis (with the advice and supervision of that faculty member).

Graduates of the Experimental Research program often pursue further graduate work in psychology or seek employment in research-related occupations. The skills and knowledge acquired in the Experimental Research specialization may provide a beneficial foundation for further graduate study in other professional fields (e.g., clinical psychology, law, business).