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Course Descriptions
Psychology
PSY 101
Introduction to Psychology
3 credits
This course offers an overview of the principles of human behavior. Developmental theories, psychophysiology, thinking, learning, personality theories, abnormal, and deviant psychology are introduced. Methods of assessment and research principles are discussed.
PSY 201
Child Growth and Development
3 credits
This course provides a comprehensive study of human development from the prenatal period through adolescence. Areas that are studied include physical, social-emotional, and intellectual development. Major developmental theorists are reviewed. The interrelationship of heredity and environmental factors that influence change are also considered. Prerequisite/Co-requisite: PSY 101 (except for K-6 and 6-8 education programs)
PSY 204
Life Span Development
3 credits
This course is a survey of maturational and learned behaviors as they develop through all life phases. Human behavioral development is traced from prenatal stages through infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and later life. Physical, cognitive, and social development are considered, along with the development of language and personality.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 215
The Family: Effect on Development
3 credits
The effects of family and home environment on the development of children are examined. Current trends in the family, the impact of society on the family and the child, as well as the influence of values on family interactions are explored.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 or PSY 204
PSY 280
Problem Solving
3 credits
This course is an introduction to human information processing: how we think, reason, and solve problems. Students explore the way in which problems can be transformed into opportunities. Topical issues include models of thinking, simulation, and creativity.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 290-291
Guided Practicum in Behavioral Science and Psychology
1 credits
This course is a supervised and guided 30-clock hour field experience for undergraduate students who have completed more than 15 credits but less than 60 credits in an organization or agency involved in the coordination or delivery of human services. Such organizations could be psychiatric facilities, nursing homes, or community-based agencies providing social services. Prior Learning Assessment credits are not applicable to this course. Course is graded pass/fail.
PSY 291
Problem Solving
credits
An introduction to human information processing looking at how we think, reason, and solve problems. Exploration is also made of the use of problems as opportunities. Topical issues will include models of thinking, simulation, and creativity.
PSY 300
Theories of Personality
3 credits
The concept of personality is explored via the developmental theories of several social scientists. The impact of personality upon such processes as intelligence, anxiety, health, aggression, altruism, and moral behavior is studied.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 and PSY 204
PSY 301
Social Psychology
3 credits
This course is a study of the impact of social institutions on the behavior of the individual, as well as the impact of the individual on the group. Topics include attitudes, beliefs, public opinion, propaganda, leadership, prejudice, and international tension.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 and SOC 101
PSY 302
Organizational and Industrial Psychology
3 credits
This course is the analysis of psychological issues in industry. Topics include motivational theories, supervisory and management skills, personnel selection, the use of statistics and testing, group decision-making processes, leadership skills, and the general impact of organizational structure on employee performance and productivity.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 303
History of Psychology
3 credits
This course surveys the history of psychology through psychological research endeavors that have had remarkable and lasting effects on the various disciplines that comprise the science known as psychology.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 305
Abnormal Psychology
3 credits
This course is a study of the causes, characteristics, and management of abnormal behavior. The course is divided into three general areas: major theoretical perspectives of abnormal behavior; major disorders following the categories of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-IV-TR); and causes, treatment, and impact of abnormal behavior.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 and one of the following: PSY 201, 204, 331, or 332
PSY 306
Behavior Modification
3 credits
This course surveys and examines the theory and technique of operant and classical conditioning in behavior modification. The main emphasis is on understanding the basic principles of behavior modification.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 309
Interpersonal Communication Skills
3 credits
This course explores communication patterns and styles between people. Focus is on developing effective communication skills and understanding those factors which influence the implementation of these skills.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 310
Community Psychology
3 credits
This course studies the community as a system which affects the development of the individual. It provides a study of community organizations as they impact the individual and includes a search for approaches to creating and re-creating the community through grass-roots efforts.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 314
Psychology of Human Potential
3 credits
This course is a study of the techniques and theoretical approaches common to the human potential movement. The course examines the basics of humanistic psychology and its origins in eastern philosophy. Special attention is given to the reconciliation of rational and non-rational modes of thought in human psychology.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 315
Group Dynamics
3 credits
This course focuses on the social and psychological implications and processes of groups, group participation, and organization. Included are class exercises which foster students' understanding of group development, styles of facilitation, and interdependency.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 316
Stress Management
3 credits
This course provides the student with an understanding of the causes and symptoms of stress and burnout. The emphasis is on prevention strategies and the development of individual coping skills, including proper exercise, nutrition, breathing techniques, biofeedback, time management, and progressive relaxation.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 319
Family Systems
3 credits
This course focuses on how families function as a system; aspects of assessment and treatment are also considered.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 322
Wellness in the Workplace
3 credits
This course will cover the challenges of creating and sustaining wellness in the workplace. The course will examine health promotion models and preventative management techniques for planning, implementing, and evaluating worksite wellness programs and interventions. The underlying premise of the course is that improving the quality of health of the individual and the organization involves changing organizational systems as well as people's attitudes and behaviors.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 330
Infant and Toddler Development
3 credits
This course is an in-depth study of the growth and development of an infant from conception to age three. The effect of nature vs. nurture on development is emphasized; recent trends in infant group care are reviewed. Basic knowledge of child growth and development is essential to succeed in the course.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 or PSY 204
PSY 331
Middle Childhood Development
3 credits
This course focuses on physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development in middle childhood. Attention is also given to development immediately preceding and following this phase of development.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 or PSY 204
PSY 332
Adolescent Development
3 credits
This course provides an overview of the significant developmental stages of adolescent growth. Consideration of this stage spans preadolescence and extends into early adulthood. Special emphasis is placed on the sequences of social and emotional development common to all adolescents.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 or PSY 204
PSY 333
Psychology of the Exceptional Child
3 credits
This course provides information and strategies for individuals working with exceptional children. Emphasis is on identification, assessment, and intervention appropriate to various types of exceptionalities, as well as the impact of these exceptionalities on the social-emotional development of the child.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 or PSY 204
PSY 334
The Biological Basis of Behavior
3 credits
This course focuses on the biological systems that impact human behavior. Special attention is given to the parts of the brain, hormones, and neurochemistry of behavior, as well as drugs that affect behavior. Additional topics include illness; abnormality or defects that affect behavior; applications of knowledge to understanding of common behaviors; and implications of this information for treatment, prevention, remediation, and common research methodologies. Evolutionary considerations are also an important focus of this course.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 and SCI 335
PSY 351
Learning and Cognition
3 credits
This course is the study of the thinking process from sensory perception through attention, memory, learning, and the higher- order skills of problem solving. In addition to basic research in the field of neuropsychology, the course includes theories of language acquisition and information processing.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 352
Human Sexuality
3 credits
This course provides a basic knowledge of both the anatomy and the physiology of the human sexual response in the male and female. Attitudes with regard to controversial issues such as homosexuality, sterilization, and abortion are also considered.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, PSY 300, and junior status
PSY 353
Sports Psychology
3 credits
This course provides knowledge about psychological factors that affect behavior in sports, such as anxiety, motivation, concentration, and confidence. Students also study the psychological effect that participation in a sport or physical activity has on a performer.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 354
Psychology of Sports Injuries
3 credits
This course focuses on the role the mind plays from the moment an athletic injury is sustained until the time the athlete completes rehabilitation and is back playing the sport.
PSY 363
Psychology of Language
3 credits
This course is a study in language behavior. Normative, cognitive, emotional, and relational aspects of language behavior are examined. Emphasis is placed on aspects of language learning, production, and comprehension. Individual, social, and gender-based differences are explored, as well as surface and deep structures of language and the psychological aspects of miscommunication.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, PSY 300, ENG 102, and ENG 111
PSY 364
Disability Issues
3 credits
This course is a comprehensive overview of the barriers faced by people with physical and mental disabilities. The focus is on sensitivity training, awareness of community resources, and recent civil rights legislation as means of surmounting stereotypical attitudes.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 375
Forensic Psychology
3 credits
This course is designed to give the student a general understanding of the interface of psychology and the law and the differences between the two fields of study. In doing so, the course will examine the roles and responsibilities of forensic psychologists and will include topics such as: the selection and training of police, police interrogations and confessions, criminal profiling, criminal investigation, eyewitness accounts, trial preparation, jury selection, mental defenses and issues of competency, other types of defenses, sexual abuse issues, child custody disputes, discrimination, sexual harassment, and death penalty cases.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 390-394
Independent Study in Behavioral Science
3 credits
Through independent study, the student is offered the opportunity to pursue individual special interests under supervision. This course is graded pass/fail.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, PSY 300, and GPA of 2.5
PSY 401
Adult Development and Aging
3 credits
Biological, sociological, psychological, and medical attributes of the facts and myths regarding adulthood and aging are examined in this course. Historical and cultural perspectives are applied to understanding attitudes regarding adulthood and aging.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 403
Counseling Process: Techniques and Applications
3 credits
This course is an introduction to current theory about psychological counseling. Theories covered include cognitive approaches, behavior modification, psychoanalytic approaches, existential therapy, and others.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 406
Tests and Measurements
3 credits
This course is a study of the construction and evaluation of standardized tests for psychological, educational, and industrial applications.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 407
Psychology of Learning
3 credits
This course is a study of the psychological principles underlying learning and teaching. Learning theories and their application to behavioral changes are also explored.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 408
Seminar in Behavioral Science
3 credits
This course is the capstone of the Behavioral Science program. Students demonstrate professional judgment and research abilities and become acquainted with the range and scope of professional career options and settings. The course provides a foundation for future professional development.
Prerequisite(s): SOC 340 and senior status
PSY 412
Crisis Intervention
3 credits
This course uses a theoretical approach to crisis intervention in social, therapeutic, and business settings. Students develop a sound theoretical approach to crisis work, along with some pragmatic approaches to commonly encountered problems.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101, PSY 204, and PSY 300
PSY 460
Topics in Behavioral Science: Contemporary Issues
3 credits
Effective leadership is essential to a free society, and an understanding of effective leadership behaviors and traits prepares students for cultivating and honing their own leadership styles. Effective leadership requires the ability to attract followers and motivate them to put forth their best efforts in solving problems. The psychology of leadership behaviors will analyze the leadership behaviors of well-known leaders, evaluate leadership behaviors according to societal values, and synthesize leadership theory into a personal leadership philosophy and action plan. Borrowing from many disciplines, this course will examine the impact of psychological needs and leadership influence. This highly interactive course will use reflection, self-assessments, and simulation scenarios to reflect on effective leadership behaviors and develop leadership skills in students.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 461
Topics in Behavioral Sciences: Domestic Violence
3 credits
Competing research results have led to bitter debates on family violence. This class will examine such questions as: Do prevention programs for children affect rates of child sexual abuse? Are alcohol and drug use a cause of family violence? Is child abuse transmitted from generation to generation? Do women bring violence on themselves? Experts in this field disagree on everything from the subject of research (Is it family violence? Interpersonal violence? Or men's violence against women?) to its cause (Is it caused by Pathology? Structural factors? Or gender related factor?).
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 and junior Level
PSY 462
Topics in Behavioral Sciences: CONFLICT RESOLUTIONS
3 credits
Topics in Behavioral Sciences: CONFLICT RESOLUTIONS
PSY 463
Topics in Behavioral Science: Addictive Behavior
3 credits
This course will explore the use and abuse of drugs and other substances in American society, including basic concepts such as addiction, tolerance, withdrawal, and diagnosis. Topics include contemporary patterns of drug use, the causes of addictive behavior, physiological complications, and treatment/support resources.
PSY 464
Losses and the Grief Journey
3 credits
Introduces and develops an awareness of the importance of the anticipated and actual grieving process in all of life's losses. Helps identify patterns due to cultural background, circumstances of loss, personality, age, spiritual energy, and other factors of individual grief journeys.
PSY 465
Spiritual Counseling
3 credits
This course is an introduction to the discipline of biblically-based counseling. The foundation principles to this approach will be covered, as well as focusing upon why to include a spiritual perspective to the counseling process. Topics covered will include working with issues of rejection, guilt (false and true), bitterness and depression, to name a few.
PSY 466
Introduction to Parapsychology
3 credits
Students are introduced to parapsychology, the study of certain human experiences that seem to defy principles of orthodox science. The unusual phenomena include extrasensory perception (ESP), psychokinesis (PK), and several types of paranormal experience (poltergeists, near-death experiences, out-of-the-body experiences, apparitions and spontaneous remembrances of a prior life).
PSY 467
Topics: Microsociology and Ethnomethodology
3 credits
This course is the deliberate systematic study of emerging social relationships and interactions in face to face process. Topics include work interactions, friendship interactions, and conflict. It focuses on sense making practices of members. It will explore several issues in social interaction using approaches by Goffman, Sacks, and others around the topic of “What did they do to get to what they got?” This course will combine sociology, psychology and philosophy.
PSY 468
Psychology of Gambling
3 credits
This course focuses on the social and psychological implications of gambling, including identification of problem gambling, related disorders and/or addictions, stages of gambling disorders, and treatment for pathological gambling.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 469
Humor and Holistic Health
3 credits
An exploration of the powerful effects of emotions and behavior on the human mind-body unity. The course will examine theory and recent research on humor, mirth and laughter relative to both prevention and healing of illness. Students will experience the positive influence of laughter in particular on mental-physical health.
PSY 470
Topics in Behavioral Sciences: Wealth - Conflicting Ideas
3 credits
This course examines current concepts of personal wealth in the U.S. We look at some of the many conflicting ideas about wealth, including: what it is, how we get it, how we scorn it, how we love, how we steal it, how we fear it, what money buys (and doesn't buy). The course is structured as a self-directed learning project, with students doing research, examining assigned material, and writing essays on a specified theme each week. Assignments will include 3-4 novels and 3-4 videos, and some newspaper/magazine articles.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101
PSY 471
Wealth and Democracy
3 credits
This course examines current concepts of personal wealth in the United States. Some of the many conflicting ideas about wealth are explored, including: what it is, how we get it, how we scorn it, how we love it, how we steal it, how we fear it, and what money buys (and doesn't buy). Students will be required to do research, examine assigned materials, and write essays on a specified theme each week. Assignments will include three to four novels, three to four videos, and some newspaper/magazine articles.
PSY 490-494
Internship in Behavioral Science (Psychology Majors)
3 credits
This course consists of supervised field placement in an agency related to human services such as a psychiatric facility, a nursing home, or a community-based agency providing social services. It is graded satisfactory/unsatisfactory. Note: see Academic Advisor prior to registering for this course. Prerequisites: PSY 101, SOC 101, and a significant number of core requirements already completed, junior status, and GPA of 2.5