Academic Catalog

Psychology (PSY)

PSY 2003  General Psychology  
ACTS Common Course - PSYC 1103.

An introduction to basic concepts in the study of behavior and to elementary principles of genetics, individual differences, motivation, emotion, personality, sensation, and perception.

Note: A grade of "C" or higher is required for Psychology majors.
PSY 2023  Consumer Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

An introduction to the application of psychological principles to the study of the acts of individuals involved in obtaining and using economic goods and services, including the decision making processes that precede and determine these acts. Emphasis is placed on the role of perception, learning, personality, and attitude change.

PSY 2033  Psychology of Adjustment  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

A course to provide a broad introduction to psychology as applied to human behavior. Focus is on the theoretical and experimental issues underlying the development and function of mental and emotional states. Emphasis is on normal functioning.

PSY 2053  Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences  
Cross-listed: SOC 2053.
Prerequisite: MATH 1003, or higher, and PSY 2003 or SOC 1003, or consent.

An introduction to descriptive and inferential statistical methods pertinent to behavioral sciences research, including correlation, sampling distributions, t-tests, chi square and analysis of variance. Emphasis is upon the logical and applied aspects.

Note: A grade of "C" or higher is required for Psychology majors.
PSY 2063  Research Design for the Behavioral Sciences  
Cross-listed: SOC 2063.
Prerequisite: MATH 1003, or higher, and PSY 2003 or SOC 1003, or consent.

This course is designed to introduce you to the foundations of behavioral science, the logic of research design and the many possible modes of operation. This class focuses on teaching students in the behavioral sciences the basic principles that guide the research process, the elements of research design, how to read and critique research articles, and how to write a literature review for a research project.

Note: A grade of "C" or higher is required for Psychology majors.
PSY 2093  Human Sexuality  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

A survey of the psychological themes associated with human sexuality. Topics include, but are not limited to: love and intimacy, sexual behaviors, sexual problems, gender, and sexual orientation.

PSY 2133  Cross-Cultural Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

This course is designed to link basic principles in cross-cultural developmental psychology and practical everyday events and questions as above ones together to help students cultivate a global perspective on human behavior and gain an understanding of, and appreciation for, human development as it takes place in various cultural settings throughout the world. Experiential learning will be an important component of this course. Each student will have a chance to observe the behavior of a child/adolescent of different ethnic background from his or her own and develop their own cross-cultural viewpoint on human development.

PSY 3003  Abnormal Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

This course focuses on the theories and representative research about the presentation, etiology, and treatment of mental disorders.

PSY 3013  Psychosocial Aspects of Death and Dying  
Cross-listed: SOC 3013.
Prerequisite: Upper division standing.

This course studies the psychosocial and sociological aspects of death. The course will provide a basic insight into the dynamics surrounding death from the individual and societal level, its impact on survivors, and the effect death has on the living.

PSY 3033  Criminal Psychology  
Cross-listed: CJ 3033.
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

The course familiarizes students with various models, theories, and research regarding criminality from a psychological perspective. Genetic, constitutional, and biological factors will be emphasized, and some practical applications to dealing with criminals will be considered.

PSY 3053  Behavioral Neuroscience  
Prerequisite: a grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

An introduction to the physiological correlates of behavior, with emphasis upon the nervous system.

PSY 3063  Developmental Psychology: Childhood  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A study of how the maturation process affects an individual's physical and psychological state from conception through adolescence. Representative topics include (but not limited to) genetic influences, child cognitive processes, moral reasoning, and testing.

PSY 3073  Psychology of Learning  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

An introduction to the basic processes in learning and conditioning, including human and animal experimental findings. Emphasis will be placed on conditioning paradigms, reinforcement principles, memory functions and their use in behavior change.

PSY 3083  Psychology of Women  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

The purpose of this course is to examine the lives of girls and women, including topics such as gender stereotypes, the development of gender roles, gender comparisons, women and work, love relationships, women's physical and mental health, violence against women, and women in later adulthood. Students who take this course should acquire an understanding of what it means to be female in North America.

PSY 3093  Industrial and Organizational Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

A survey of psychological applications in industrial settings with emphasis upon selection, placement, and training techniques; organizational theory; and decision making processes.

PSY 3103  Health Psychology  

This course introduces students to the mind-body relationship and the contribution of psychology in understanding health promotion, health care, and the etiology and treatment of physical illness. Representative topics covered in this course include changing health habits, stress, and coping, health care utilization, patient-provider relations, and managing chronic illness such as heart disease, AIDS, diabetes, and cancer.

PSY 3123  Evolutionary Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063, or permission of the instructor.

This course focuses on the origins and functions of psychological mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on the psychological adaptations that aided in survival and reproduction across human ancestral history.

PSY 3133  Self and Society  
Cross-listed: SOC 3133.
Prerequisite: SOC 1003 or PSY 2003.

A sociological survey of the ways in which social structure and personality interact. Topics typically covered are: socialization, attitudes and value formation and change, and group influences upon self-concept and self-esteem.

PSY 3141  Seminar in Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A directed seminar in an area of psychology. The specific focus will depend upon research underway, student need, and current developments in the field of psychology.

Note: May be repeated for credit if course content differs.
PSY 3142  Seminar in Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A directed seminar in an area of psychology. The specific focus will depend upon research underway, student need, and current developments in the field of psychology.

Note: May be repeated for credit if course content differs.
PSY 3143  Seminar in Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A directed seminar in an area of psychology. The specific focus will depend upon research underway, student need, and current developments in the field of psychology.

Note: May be repeated for credit if course content differs.
PSY 3144  Seminar in Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A directed seminar in an area of psychology. The specific focus will depend upon research underway, student need, and current developments in the field of psychology.

Note: May be repeated for credit if course content differs.
PSY 3153  Personality Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

An introduction to the various theoretical viewpoints of the normal personality structure and its development.

PSY 3163  Developmental Psychology: Adulthood  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

The study of how the maturation process affects an individual's physical and psychological state from adolescence through old age. Representative topics include (but not limited to) early, middle, and late adulthood biological, psychosocial and cognitive development.

PSY 3173  Psychology of Consciousness  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

An introduction to the various theoretical viewpoints as to the topic of consciousness and how it is investigated.

PSY 3183  Development Psychology: Adolescence  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Since its creation in the early 20th century, the term adolescence has held a distinct position in the development of the person. This course explores the themes related to the period of adolescence, biological, psychosocial, typical and atypical development. Themes investigated in the course concern pubertal development, peers and relationship intimacy, the "adolescent rebellion", identity and vocational milestones.

PSY 3184  Animal Behavior  
Cross-listed: BIOL 3184.
Prerequisite: sophomore standing in biology or psychology, or approval of instructor.

An introductory course in animal behavior covering behavioral responses in primitive and advanced animals exposed to a wide range of environmental and social conditions. Laboratory exercises will include field as well as in-lab exercises and will focus on observational techniques and analyses of behavioral patterns in vertebrates and invertebrates. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours.

PSY 3191  Careers in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

This course provides an overview of the multiple educational and careers paths available to psychology majors.

PSY 3203  Serial and Mass Murder  
Cross-listed: CJ 3203 and SOC 3203.

This course explores the sociological, psychological, and criminological dimensions of serial and mass homicide. Topics include offender typologies, victim selection, motive analysis, media influence, investigative strategies, and societal responses. Emphasis is placed on theoretical frameworks, structural contexts, and the role of institutions in understanding and addressing these crimes. Students will engage with the case studies, research literature, and critical analysis to examine how homicide is patterned, portrayed, and prevented.

PSY 3813  Lifespan Development  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

A study of the processes of human development from conception through the lifespan. Research, application, and other considerations for nursing majors will be emphasized. Topics include, but are not limited to: how the maturation process affects an individual's physical and psychological state, genetic influences, child cognitive processes, moral reasoning, and early, middle, and late adulthood biological, psychosocial, and cognitive developmental processes.

PSY 4003  Capstone: Advanced Research Method and Lab for Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A study of research methods in psychology. Emphasis is placed upon developing skills in data gathering and analysis, report writing and application of basic research strategies.

Note: A grade of "C" or higher is required for Psychology majors.
PSY 4013  History of Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A survey of the developments in psychology from the ancient Greeks to the emergence of psychology as a modern experimental science.

PSY 4021  Internships in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Supervised internship in a psychological-services or applied research setting. Emphasis will be placed on the student acquiring first-hand experience and entry-level skills in practitioner roles.

Note: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours of internship.
PSY 4022  Internships in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Supervised internship in a psychological-services or applied research setting. Emphasis will be placed on the student acquiring first-hand experience and entry-level skills in practitioner roles.

Note: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours of internship.
PSY 4023  Internships in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Supervised internship in a psychological-services or applied research setting. Emphasis will be placed on the student acquiring first-hand experience and entry-level skills in practitioner roles.

Note: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours of internship.
PSY 4024  Internships in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Supervised internship in a psychological-services or applied research setting. Emphasis will be placed on the student acquiring first-hand experience and entry-level skills in practitioner roles.

Note: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours of internship.
PSY 4033  Psychological Tests and Measurements  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

Theory of psychological testing, statistical procedures, and training in administration, scoring and profiling of various tests of ability, achievement, interests, and personality.

PSY 4043  Social Psychology  
Cross-listed: SOC 4043.
Prerequisite: a grade of "C" of higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

The study of how individuals are influenced by the actual or implied presence of other persons. Emphasis is placed on attitudes, social cognition, social influence, aggression, altruism, self and other perception.

PSY 4053  Sensation and Perception  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

The study of general perceptual process. While the main senses will be covered, emphasis will be placed on visual functioning. The role of perception in organismic adaptation will be explored.

PSY 4073  Cognitive Psychology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

A study of the basic principles of mental processes, and their influence on behavior. Specifically, the course focuses on the conscious and unconscious processes involved in the acquisition, storage, transformation, and use of knowledge.

PSY 4103  Capstone: Advanced Psychological Science  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053, and PSY 2063.

A study and demonstration of scientific and psychological literacy. With scientific literacy the emphasis is placed upon being able to evaluate science beyond the classroom (e.g. the media, popular culture, etc.). With psychological literacy the emphasis is placed upon developing skills related to communicating in various modes to various audiences, reflective of one's own and other's behavior and mental processes, acting ethically, analysis of information to evaluate courses of action, and demonstrating a vocabulary and knowledge base subject matter of psychology. The course also focuses on the demonstration of psychological literacy related to the individual, social, and organizational issues.

PSY 4133  Psychopharmacology  
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in PSY 2003, PSY 2053 or SOC 2053, and PSY 2063 or SOC 2063.

An introduction to the field of psychopharmacology. Representative topics include (but are not limited to) neuronal structures and processes, neurochemicals and neurotransmission, and the biological basis and pharmacological treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and mental illness.

PSY 4203  Capstone: Psychology in the Community  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003, PSY 2053 with a C or better, PSY 2063 with a C or better.

This course facilitates student experiences and work with clients and organizations that address issues, topics, and themes you are learning about in psychology. Through this educational and "hands on" curriculum, you will apply the information learned in your courses to practical, real-life situations encountered in work experiences. You will work with a chosen employer organization to seek solutions to their personal and communal issues. All work internships must be secured by the student. The instructor will facilitate the following course learning objectives (CLO): 1. Exploring the areas of psychology through work experiences. 2. Applying psychology content of the degree coursework to the work experiences. 3. Communicating with professionals in the field and to the discipline of psychology. 4. Constructing a final product or portfolio on work experience and psychological applications.

PSY 4951  Undergraduate Research in Psychology  
Offered: On demand.
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Advanced students carry out independent research activity relating to a significant problem in a major field of study. Supervised by faculty member. Formal report and presentation required. One to four credits depending on problem selected and effort made.

PSY 4952  Undergraduate Research in Psychology  
Offered: On demand.
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Advanced students carry out independent research activity relating to a significant problem in a major field of study. Supervised by faculty member. Formal report and presentation required. One to four credits depending on problem selected and effort made.

PSY 4953  Undergraduate Research in Psychology  
Offered: On demand.
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Advanced students carry out independent research activity relating to a significant problem in a major field of study. Supervised by faculty member. Formal report and presentation required. One to four credits depending on problem selected and effort made.

PSY 4954  Undergraduate Research in Psychology  
Offered: On demand.
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Advanced students carry out independent research activity relating to a significant problem in a major field of study. Supervised by faculty member. Formal report and presentation required. One to four credits depending on problem selected and effort made.

PSY 4991  Special Problems in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Independent work under individual guidance of a faculty member.

PSY 4992  Special Problems in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Independent work under individual guidance of a faculty member.

PSY 4993  Special Problems in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Independent work under individual guidance of a faculty member.

PSY 4994  Special Problems in Psychology  
Prerequisite: PSY 2003.

Independent work under individual guidance of a faculty member.