Psychology
Program Learning Outcomes
- Psychology graduates are able to demonstrate knowledge of the core concepts and theoretical perspectives in psychology, which include experimental and social science-oriented information.
- Psychology graduates are able to apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Psychology graduates are able to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.
- Psychology graduates are able to identify and utilize ethical principles as presented by the American Psychological Association (APA).
- Psychology graduates are able to successfully engage in the community and provide service.
- Psychology graduates are able to demonstrate competency in the use of information technologies related to psychological inquiry.
- Psychology graduates are able to use creative thinking and skeptical inquiry and where possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavioral and mental processes.
Degrees
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Psychology, Bachelor of Arts -
Psychology (Forensic Concentration), Bachelor of Arts -
Psychology Online, Bachelor of Arts -
Psychology, Minor
Courses
PSY 120: General Psychology
PSY 230: Developmental Psychology
A survey of development across the human life span from conception to death, with special emphasis on the period of most rapid change prior to adulthood.
Cross-listed with SWK 200.
PSY 231: Abnormal Psychology
A survey of historical and contemporary conceptions of abnormal behavior including assessment, theoretical perspectives, research, and treatment.
PSY 236: Social Psychology
A study of the characteristics of individuals in relation to social groups, focusing on interpersonal attraction, aggression, conformity, attitude formation and change, socialization, and small group dynamics.
Psychology 236 and Sociology 236 are cross listed. Students may receive credit for one, but not both courses. Psychology 236 and Sociology 236 can be counted either for the Psychology or the Sociology major, but not for both.
PSY 300: History and Systems
This course will explore psychology’s roots and major divisions as defined by the American Psychological Association. Required for Psychology majors, or PSY 330 may be substituted.
PSY 310: Community Based Applications for Social Science
This course provides a practical view of the social sciences including the social, cultural, and personality factors influencing community development. Students will use their analytical skills to explain various social issues in a variety of community settings using both contemporary and historical data. Academic and nonacademic careers in the social sciences will be explored. Intended for juniors and seniors in the Social and Behavioral Sciences department. Psychology 310 and Sociology 310 are cross listed. Students may receive credit for one, but not both courses. Psychology 310 and Sociology 310 can be counted either for the Psychology or the Sociology major, but not for both.
PSY 120 or SOC 101
PSY 312: Applied/Forensic Psychology
An investigation of the practical and professional application of psychological principles, with a focus on the principles of forensic psychology. Students will also receive career information on the graduate training required to prepare for a variety of applied psychology specialties.
PSY 325: Personality
A survey of major theories and their application to personality assessment and personality development.
PSY 330: Theories of Counseling
This course will expose students to several major theories of counseling. Students who are planning careers in psychology, social work, educational guidance, pastoral counseling, and various areas of health care should find the contents of this course especially useful. Required for Psychology majors, or PSY 300 may be substituted.
PSY 340: Psychology of Aging, Dying, and Death
This course offers a broad overview of the psychological aspects of aging, dying, and death. Topics include current American views and issues as well as historical and cross-cultural practices and customs.
PSY 350: Learning and Memory
A study of current theories of how memory, acquisition of new information, forgetting and retrieval are understood. Required for Psychology majors, or PSY 360 may be substituted.
PSY 360: Cognitive Psychology
A study of current theories of how memory, acquisition of new information, forgetting and retrieval are understood. Required for Psychology majors, or PSY 350 may be substituted.
PSY 370: Physiological Psychology
An investigation into how the central nervous system works and organizes information for coherent behavior and thought processes. Injury and pathology of the central nervous system will also be studied.
PSY 480: Seminar in Selected Topics
A topic of interest to the student may be investigated in depth. These might include substance abuse, dysfunctional families, suicide, psychotherapy, etc. Open to juniors and seniors.
PSY 485: Seminar in Professional Topics
This course will focus on classic and contemporary studies which have contributed significantly to our view of modern psychology. Additionally, the practical concerns of preparing for careers and graduate school opportunities will be explored. Open to juniors and seniors.
PCOM option for Neuroscience major.
PSY 491: Independent Study
Guided research in Psychology. Open to Psychology majors with a “B” average and with the approval of the instructor.
PSY 492: Independent Study
Guided research in Psychology. Open to Psychology majors with a “B” average and with the approval of the instructor.