Psychology

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Psychology graduates are able to demonstrate knowledge of the core concepts and theoretical perspectives in psychology, which include experimental and social science-oriented information.
  2. Psychology graduates are able to apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
  3. Psychology graduates are able to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.
  4. Psychology graduates are able to identify and utilize ethical principles as presented by the American Psychological Association (APA).
  5. Psychology graduates are able to successfully engage in the community and provide service.
  6. Psychology graduates are able to demonstrate competency in the use of information technologies related to psychological inquiry.
  7. 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 and Certificates

Classes

PSY 120: General Psychology

Class Program
Credits 3
An introductory survey of basic principles of behavior; sensation and perception, conditioning and learning, memory and language, emotion and motivation, intelligence, and social influences on behavior, and other current topics appropriate to a general understanding of the broad field of psychology.
Core Tags
SB
Semester Offered
Offered every semester.

PSY 236: Social Psychology

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered fall semester, odd-numbered years.
Notes

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

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Core Tags
WI
Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered at departmental discretion.

PSY 310: Community Based Applications for Social Science

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisites

PSY 120 or SOC 101

Semester Offered
Offered at departmental discretion.

PSY 312: Applied/Forensic Psychology

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered spring semester.

PSY 330: Theories of Counseling

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Core Tags
WI
Prerequisite Courses

PSY 350: Learning and Memory

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered spring semester, odd-numbered years.

PSY 360: Cognitive Psychology

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered spring semester, even-numbered years.

PSY 370: Physiological Psychology

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered fall semester.

PSY 485: Seminar in Professional Topics

Class Program
Credits 3

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.

Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered at departmental discretion.
Notes

PCOM option for Neuroscience major.