Psychology
| Key to Course Offerings |
| Q: |
designates courses in the Quantitative Scientific Cluster |
| I: |
the Ideas and Events Cluster |
| B: |
the Human Behavior Cluster |
| L: |
the Literature, Language and Arts Cluster |
| C: |
Multicultural |
| IDIS: |
Interdisciplinary courses
Multicultural and interdisciplinary courses also fulfill a cluster designation. |
| * |
Asterisk indicates that the course may be offered less than once every two years. |
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Undergraduate Day School |
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Undergraduate Evening School |
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Courses having a more narrow focus than those taught on a regular basis of courses being taught on an experimental basis can be taught as Topics courses. These courses will be assigned numbers based on the student level for which they are intended-first, second, third or fourth year. |
General Psychology
PSY 1100 3 cr. 3 hr.
The course introduces the student to the contemporary discipline of the science of human behavior and mental processes. Topics investigated include the scientific method, biological bases of behavior, maturation, motivation, emotions, learning, personality and adjustment. The course is prerequisite for all other courses in Psychology. B
Research Design and Analysis I
PSY 2000 3 cr. 3 hr.
This is an introductory course in research design and statistics. The course will give students the tools required to conduct basic descriptive research and simple data analysis in psychology and related fields. APA (American Psychological Association) format will be introduced. Q, B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Research Design and Analysis II
PSY 2100 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course is a continuation of the study of the scientific method and data analysis as it applies to the study of psychological processes. This course will focus upon the philosophy of experimentation, techniques of systematic observation, experimental control and specific types of experimental designs. Data analyses will be introduced for each type of research design discussed. Students will design, conduct, analyze and write in APA format. Q, B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Portfolio and Career Seminar I
PSY 2105 1 cr. 2 hrs. bi-weekly
This course will introduce students to the use of portfolios as assessment tools and to the portfolios they must complete as part of their psychology major and will provide critical information about the portfolio development process (e.g., necessary components of the portfolio). This course is the first of two portfolio seminars; the second course is taken during students' senior years.
Prerequisites: PSY 1000 or PSY 2200, MAATH 1700 & PSY 2000
Introduction to Research Methods
PSY 2110 3 cr. 3 hr.
The emphasis in this course is on research design, including consideration of sampling procedures, questionnaire design, methods of observation and reporting. Q
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychological Statistics
PSY 2120 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course expands upon the mathematical concepts introduced in Math 1700. Descriptive statistics are reviewed and inferential statistics are introduced. Analyses considered include t-tests and analysis of variance up to and including factorial designs. Computer analysis is also emphasized.
Prerequisites: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200, PSY 2110, and MATH 1700.
The Psychology of Speech and Communication
PSY 2160 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course provides information for judging speech behaviors of self and others. Topics such as concepts of speech, language and communication, effective speaking and listening behaviors, non-verbal communication, animal communication, linguistic and psycholinguistic theory are covered. The course cannot be used for credit toward major but it may be used for minor course. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Human Growth and Development
PSY 2200 3 cr. 3 hr.
This lifespan course emphasizes a study of the physical, physiological, social and psychological development of the individual from conception to old age. B
Child Psychology
PSY 2210 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course offers an introductory overview of the developing child from conception through preadolescence. Theories and research are used to lay the foundation for the study of the physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of the child. Also considered are such topics as attachment, moral development, language acquisition and genetic and environmental influences on development. This course meets the Office for Children requirement for Category-A day care certification. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Adolescent Psychology
PSY 2230 3 cr. 3 hr.
Adolescence as a stage of development and as a cultural phenomenon is investigated in this course. The influence of physical, cognitive and psychosocial factors on the adolescent's search for identity are examined. Emphasis is on an interdisciplinary approach that draws on relevant theories and research from a wide range of fields. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Adult Development
PSY 2240 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course introduces the student to theories and research for the periods of young and middle adulthood. Physical, mental and personality processes are covered, as well as issues and problems of research in adult development. Application of this knowledge to adults in their relationships and in their work settings is stressed. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Women
PSY 2250 3 cr. 3 hr.
Objectives of this course include an increased awareness of the psychological development of women and of the dimensions of self and personhood in relation to society. The examination and analysis of issues relative to current debate concerning the status of women are explored.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Gerontology: The Psychology of Growing Old
PSY 2260 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course examines the developmental changes, including both gains and losses, which occur in the later part of the life span. The course focuses on theory and research related to biological, physical, cognitive and psychosocial changes that occur in late life. The emphasis is on understanding the normal aging process. Research methods and designs used to study aging are also covered. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Human Sexuality
PSY 2280 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course includes a study of the relationships among the various aspects of sexuality, including relationships, social norms and cross-cultural variations in sexual behavior. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Personality
PSY 2300 3 cr. 3 hr.
Dynamic factors in personality formation are studied through some of the leading theoretical positions on personality development.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Death and Dying
PSY 2320 3 cr. 3 hr.
Through lectures, readings, discussions and media, students explore psychological theory, research and personal feelings concerning the dying process, suicide, grief, sudden death, and dying as it influences persons at different developmental stages. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Intimacy
PSY 2330 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course examines the dynamics of partner selection and the process of creating a relationship that maximizes the development of personal integrity and interpersonal security. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Abnormal Psychology
PSY 2350 3 cr. 3 hr.
The course reviews normal, neurotic and psychotic behavior as well as methods of psychotherapy. Techniques for maintaining optimal psychological health are emphasized. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Interpersonal Effectiveness
PSY 2370 3 cr. 3 hr.
This is a lab-based course which introduces and develops interpersonal competence, particularly as it pertains to dyadic situations. Basic skill areas such as observation, listening and questioning are addressed, as are integrative skills, such as conflict resolution and relationship development. Students are asked to become more aware of their own interpersonal behavior, and are introduced to the extensive research literature on interpersonal behavior. Applications in both the personal and the professional domain are addressed. The class meets LAS speaking and listening requirement for the Psychology major. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Captivity
PSY 2400 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course deals with the effects of captivity on both the captive and the captor. Materials include films, tapes, interviews, first-person accounts, systematic studies of experiences and the long-term consequences on persons involved as well as on their children.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychological Testing
PSY 2450 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course is designed to give students a broad understanding of the theory and use of psychological testing. Methods of test evaluation, analysis and interpretation are presented. Standardized testing instruments used to measure human cognitive and affective factors are explored and their purposes reviewed.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200 and satisfaction of the math readiness requirement.
Social Psychology
PSY 2500 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course provides an introduction to the study of human social behavior. Representative topics include attitudes and their formation, aggression, prosocial behavior, conformity and interpersonal attraction, as well as group dynamics, structure and leadership. The application of social-psychological research to contemporary social problems is also considered. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Group Dynamics
PSY 2550 3 cr. 3 hr.
The nature and dynamics of interpersonal relationships are revealed in typical group settings, such as classrooms, work settings, and other discussion-oriented groups. Emphasis is on both content and process as demonstrated in a laboratory learning environment. The course may include a 10-hour intensive experience. The class meets LAS speaking and listening requirements for the Psychology major. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Small Group Leadership
PSY 2570 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course is designed to equip students for planning and conducting meetings requiring the coordination of small groups of people. Participants study and practice basic leadership skills applicable to a variety of small group settings. They develop and demonstrate these skills in the context of small group participation in class and as leaders of extra class groups. The class meets LAS speaking and listening requirements for the Psychology major.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Organizational Psychology
PSY 2610 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course examines organizational influences on motivation and satisfaction of the workforce. Methods of surveying organizational climate are introduced, and a variety of intervention methods are evaluated. Organizational experience in Japan, Western Europe, and the United States are analyzed and compared. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Work and the Individual
PSY 2620 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course considers the ways in which individuals meet their needs for growth and development, while the organization meets its needs for worker productivity. How the organization's needs affect workers and how workers react to these pressures are subjects that are studied. Topics include work as a basic human need, relationships with co-workers, interpersonal skills, uses of power influence, leading and motivating others, meeting personal needs/job satisfaction, adaptation to change, problems in adaptation such as alcohol, drugs or lack of competence. stress management and career development. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Human Factors/Ergonomics
PSY 2630 3 cr. 3 hr.
Students develop the ability to fit the demands of people and work together. Competence is developed in tailoring work conditions and equipment to facilitate human performance and in identifying the skills required by the job.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Human Resources
PSY 2645 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course addresses the psychological theory and research concerning human resource systems in organizations. The course covers methods of job analysis, development and use of assessment tools to select employees, performance measurement and appraisal and employee training and development. The course also addresses the legal and ethical issues of discrimination in the work setting. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Organizational Leadership
PSY 2655 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course provides a treatment of the major issues in personnel psychology and emphasizes the psychological aspects of personnel systems. The focus of the course is on the psychological assessment of potential and current employees as a means for fitting workers into jobs. Emphasis is also placed on the employment discrimination issues that may emerge in the work setting and the use and interpretation of descriptive and inferential statistics in personnel decision making. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Psychology of Sport and Exercise
PSY 2660 3 cr. 3 hr.
Sport and exercise psychology is the scientific study of people and their behavior in sport and exercise activities, and the application of the resulting knowledge. In this course we review reasons for involvement in sport and exercise, and review the effects of physical activity on mental health and well-being. We also address factors that influence individual and team performance, such as motivation, confidence, and group dynamics. Finally, students are expected to engage in some form of sport or exercise during the course, and to consider how course concepts can help them achieve enjoyment and success.
Prerequisite: PSY 1000 or PSY 2200
Psychology in Action
PSY 2680 3 cr. 3 hr.
In this seminar course students will explore trends and emerging specialities in the field of professional psychology and debate current issues and controversies. An important part of the course is a major project that connects psychology to each student's personal career goals.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Learning Theory and Its Applications
PSY 2710 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course focuses on the principles and theories of learning, as derived by both the laboratory psychologist and the educational researcher. Those theories are applied to various social settings, including the classroom, the family and others. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Tests and Measurements
PSY 2750 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course is a study of the basic statistical concepts and techniques of measurement. Emphasis is placed upon the application of these techniques to teacher-made tests and standardized tests used in education and psychology. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200. (Cannot be used as credit toward the major but may be used for the minor.)
Principles of Guidance
PSY 2770 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course introduces students to the psychological theory and research underpinning practice in school guidance counseling.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Cognitive Development
PSY 2810 3 cr. 3 hr.
The goal of this course is to become familiar with major theoretical and empirical issues of cognitive development from infancy to adolescence. Students will develop a basic understanding of the science of cognitive development and the ability to apply their knowledge to the field of education.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200
Perceptual Development
PSY 2820 3 cr. 3 hr.
The goal of this course is to development a basic understanding of visual and auditory perceptual development during infancy. Lectures, reading and other assignments will focus on classic and contemporary theories of how perception develops and evaluate current perceptual development research.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Socio-Emotional and Personality Development
PSY 2830 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course will examine the biological, social and psychological processes underlying socio-emotional and personality development. Major theoretical perspectives will be examined through advanced readings and primary sources. Emphasis will be given to the interrelated developmental processes underlying each behavioral domain. Contectual factors such as family, peers, school and career choices, and those related to development and change in such areas as self-concept, gender role, identity formation, moral reasoning, prosocial and aggressive behaviors will be considered. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Development Psychopathology
PSY 2840 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course examines the field of Developmental Psychopathology or the study of the developmental processes that contribute to the formation of, or resistance to, psychopathology. We will cover the major theories that explain the development of childhood disorders such as, autism, ADHD, eating disorders, depression and anxiety as well as, the symptoms and treatment of different disorders. We will also address the many influences on the development of psychopathology in children, such as, culture, family, peer groups and genetics. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Addictive Behavior
PSY 2950 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course is designed for students who plan a career in the helping professions (including education), or who wish to understand the cognitive, emotional, social and biological correlates of alcohol and other drug abuse, or other addictive behaviors. A framework is presented for viewing such compulsive behaviors as part of a continuum from normal to dysfunctional, and controversies in the field are discussed. Students will be exposed to models of addiction, a classification of drugs, prevention of alcohol and other drug abuse and information necessary to work with clients who are affected by addiction, including assessment and diagnosis, modalities of treatment, the role of support groups and relapse prevention. In addition to lectures and class discussion students are required to attend community support group meetings and to participate in a community prevention project such as the (Great American Smokeout). This course is cross-listed as HMSV 2950.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Advanced Child Psychology
PSY 3220 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course explores in greater depth principles and theories learned in PSY 2110 and acquaints the student with methodology used in contemporary research in child psychology. Through assigned exercises and individual projects, students focus on selected issues in child development. Q, B
Prerequisites: PSY 2000, PSY 2100, MATH 1700.
At least one from the following: PSY 2810, PSY 2820, PSY 2830, PSY 2840.
A 2.5 cumulative average in Psychology and overall, and permission of instructor.
Strongly recommended: PSY 3410.
Experimental Psychology
PSY 3410 4 cr. 4 hr.
This course is an analysis and study of the scientific method, experimental designs and laboratory methods in behavioral science, emphasizing laboratory experiments and scientific communication of results. Students design, analyze and report their own research. Computer data analysis is also covered. The course meets LAS junior/senior writing requirements, as well as LAS requirements for computer literacy for the Psychology major.
Prerequisites: PSY 2000, 2100, and MATH 1700; junior or senior standing in the major, permission of Instructor.
Physiological Psychology
PSY 3420 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course concentrates on biopsychology - the discipline of neuroscience that focuses upon understanding the relationships between the brain and behavior. We cover the physiological foundations of biopsychology such as, (the anatomy of the nervous system), as well as the research tools and methods used to investigate issues in biopsychology. Major topics include brain plasticity and the ways in which the brain can recover from damage and/or disease, the biological foundations of important human behaviors such as, (eating, sleeping and dreaming), and the biopsychology of cognitive and emotional disorders such as, Alzheimers and schizophrenia. B, Q, IDIS
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Perception
PSY 3430 3 cr. 3 hr.
In this course principles related to a person's awareness of their world are studied. We specifically look at the relationship between the physical stimulus and the psychological experience that a person has. The questions we answer relate to the how and why we experience the word in the way that we do. In the process of studying sensation and perception we evaluate the nature of the physical stimulus such as light; the physiological/sensory mechanisms necessary for the receptions, transduction and transmission of the physical information that is carried to the brain as a coded nerve impulse; and how the brain interprets the physical event as a psychological experience. Topics covered include principles of psychophysics the anatomy/physiology of the visual, auditory, chemical (olfactory and gustatory) and tactile/cutaneous senses; the nature and properties of the physical stimuli that these senses respond to; and the factors that influence the interpretation of these senses such as culture, learning/past experience, motivation, expectations and personality.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
History and Systems of Psychology
PSY 3480 3 cr. 3 hr.
This advanced course provides a consideration of contemporary psychology as seen in its historical perspective. The development of psychological concepts and theories is traced from their antecedents in philosophy and the physical sciences.
Prerequisites: junior/senior standing, PSY 2000 and PSY 2100 and one course from the following: PSY 3420, PSY 3500, PSY 3530, PSY 3550 PSY 2810 PSY 2820.
Psychology of Learning
PSY 3500 3 cr. 3 hr.
This course focuses on the theories, concepts, and principles of learning; the historical aspects of learning theory; the experimental study of the learning process; and the relationship between learning theories, concepts, and principles and their uses.
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Motivation
PSY 3530 3 cr. 3 hr.
Characteristics of motivated behavior, explanation of sources of motives, and application of theories to current research and interpersonal skills are studied in this course. Emphasis is on the biological, learned, and cognitive components of motivation. Topics include internal and external motives, the relationship of stress and motivation, the place of physiological processes in motivation, issues in motivation of others, motivation for aggressive/passive behaviors and success/failure motivation. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Cognition
PSY 3550 3 cr. 3 hr.
Serving as foundations for this course are the neuroscience of cognition and the historical roots upon which our present understanding of human information processing rests. Specific topic areas include attention, semantic and episodic memory, comprehension, categorization, language, problem-solving and reasoning. Artificial intelligence and the emergence of cognitive science are also considered. Methodology is emphasized throughout the course as students consider classic research studies and apply various techniques in classroom exercises. B
Prerequisite: PSY 1100 or PSY 2200.
Teaching Practicum
PSY 4800 6 cr. 18 hr.
PSY 4803 3 cr. 9 hr.
Students assist an individual faculty member in the teaching of Psychology. Responsibilities vary with the course. The Teaching Practicum is offered by invitation of faculty only.
Prerequisite: 3.0 cumulative average overall and in the major.
Practicum in Psychology
PSY 4810 3 cr. 9 hr.
PSY 4820 6 cr. 18 hr.
Students perform basic and applied work in Psychology. Students work with staff in areas of mutual interest.
Prerequisite: a 2.5 cumulative average in psychology and permission of the instructor.
Independent Study
PSY 4900 1-6 cr. 3-18 hr.
This experience is offered primarily to Psychology students of junior or senior standing, and requires approval of the professor and of the Psychology Curriculum Committee. The student must petition the Psychology Curriculum Committee the semester prior to undertaking the independent study. Independent study may take the form of special advanced reading programs, problem identification and research, assistantships, or acquisition of professional skills. Under no circumstances is independent study substituted for regularly scheduled courses. Independent study may be taken for one to six semester hours.
Prerequisite: 3.0 cumulative average in the major.
Advanced Psychology Seminar
PSY 4920 3 cr. 3 hr.
In this course students pursue advanced study in their discipline. Students complete a supervised research report and meet in a weekly seminar to discuss their projects and other research topics and issues.
Prerequisite: PSY 2000, 2100, 3410, MATH 1700
Internship in Psychology
PSY 4950 6 cr. 18 hr.
Through an Internship the student experiences the relationship between courses in Psychology and their applications in the field. Work is carried on in settings approved by the department, faculty member, and an on-site supervisor. Internships are available in service agencies, business, and industry. Each internship presupposes specific course background. Students are encouraged to discuss Internship plans with their advisors early in their college experience. Interested students must contact the Psychology coordinator early in the prior semester of the year in which the Internship is desired. Business and industry Internships are offered only in the spring semester and some direct service Internships are available during the fall semester as well. Liability insurance is required of all students enrolled in this course.
Prerequisites: 2.5 cumulative average overall and in the major;
program approval.
Internship in Psychology
PSY 4960 12 cr. 36 hr.
Please refer to the preceding description and prerequisites for PSY 4950.
Directed Study
PSY 4975 1-6 cr.
Integrative Portfolio Seminar
PSY 4980
Students will organize work products retained from previous courses in a portfolio, which must be submitted and approved prior to graduation. Using these work products such as, theories paper from History and Systems, experimental psychology project and listening and speaking project, as evidence, students will complete an integrative analysis of their competencies in Psychology. This analysis will thoughtfully describe how and what the student has learned as a psychology major. There will be two to three class meetings during the semester. Most of the work will be done independently, consulting individually with the instructor. The course will be graded pass/fail.
Prerequisites: senior standing and permission of the instructor
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