Psychology
Murella Bosse, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology; Chair, Division of Social Sciences;
Tami Eggleston, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychology;
J. L. Kemp, Psy. D., Assistant Professor of Psychology;
Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. It develops theories and discovers laws to understand, explain, predict, and change behavior. Students in psychology will develop the ability to express themselves in oral and written form and to think critically about human behavior, including causes, development, and outcomes. Also, students will gain a greater self-awareness, an understanding of others, and some fundamental skills relevant to behavior change. The degree prepares students to enter graduate school in psychology and other relevant areas (for example, Industrial Organization, School/Community, Child, Social, Health Psychology, Counseling, Clinical social work, Occupational Therapy, Sport Psychology, Law, Divinity, and Criminal Justice.) Psychology majors go on to a variety of careers, including mental health clinics, crisis centers, substance abuse programs, social work agencies, eldercare facilities, human resources and personnel departments, criminal justice facilities, and the educational system. The psychology major offers three tracks:
1. -General – A broad overview of psychology oriented toward students who plan to attend graduate school or who have general career plans in the field.
2. -Gerontology – An emphasis on work with the elderly, a rapidly growing field in our society.
3. -Social Work – An overview of the field of social work with an emphasis on social service agencies and clinical social work.
To major in psychology, the student must complete PSY 153, 315, 440, 450, and 460 and an additional 16 credit hours in psychology for a total of 35 hours in psychology. Eighteen of the 35 credit hours required for the major must be upper division hours. No more than 4 credit hours of internship credit may be accepted toward a psychology major, including the psychology major with an emphasis in gerontological psychology or social work.
The psychology program also offers a minor which emphasizes current theoretical perspectives on the development of personality and personal growth. To minor in psychology, the student must complete 20 credit hours in psychology including PSY 153, PSY 315 and PSY 259 or 302. At least 9 of the 20 credits taken to meet minor requirements must be upper division credits. No more than four credit hours from EDU/PSY 350, EDU/PSY 355 and EDU/PSY 404 may be counted toward a psychology major or minor, including the psychology major with an emphasis in gerontological psychology or social work. For a course to be accepted toward a psychology major or minor, a grade better than D is required.
PSY 153 is a PREREQUISITE TO ALL PSYCHOLOGY COURSES.
| PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR REQUIREMENTS: General Track |
35 crs. |
PSY 153
PSY 315
PSY 440
PSY 450
PSY 460
|
INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY
ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY
SENIOR SURVEY IN PSYCHOLOGY
COUNSELING AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
EXPERIMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
additional Psychology electives
|
(4)
(4)
(3)
(4)
(4)
(16) |
| Supplementary requirement |
5 crs. |
MTH 310
CSI 108 |
STATISTICS (4)
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS SOFTWARE (1)
|
|
| Additional Courses strongly recommended for graduate school |
16 crs. |
PSY 259
PSY 275
PSY 302
PSY 317
PSY 321
PSY 330
PSY 401 |
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT
BIOPSYCHOLOGY
ADULT DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
THEORIES OF PERSONALITY
PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF DEATH AND DYING
WRITINGS IN PSYCHOLOGY
SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY
|
(4)
(3)
(3)
(4)
(4)
(2)
(3)
|
PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR REQUIREMENTS: Gerontological Emphasis
| Requirements for the general track plus |
34 crs. |
PSY 302
PSY 321
PSY 322
PSY 419
GRN 495 |
ADULT DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF DEATH AND DYING
PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF HUMAN AGING
HUMAN AGING: PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
SENIOR ESSAY IN GERONTOLOGY
|
(3)
(4)
(4)
(4)
(3)
|
| Supplementary requirement |
5 crs. |
MTH 310
CSI 108 |
STATISTICS
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS SOFTWARE
|
(4)
(1) |
PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR REQUIREMENTS: Social Work Track
| Requirements for the general track plus |
35-36 crs. |
SOC 190
SOC 380
SOC 390
SOC 465
PSY 259
or
PSY 302 |
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL WORK
SOCIAL WORK PRACTICUM
SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY
CURRENT ISSUES IN SOCIAL WORK
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY
ADULT DEVELOPMENT
|
(3)
(3)
(3)
(3)
(3-4)
(3) |
One additional course in Psychology
| Required supplementary courses |
8 crs. |
MTH 310
SOC 270
CSI 108 |
STATISTICS
SOCIAL PROBLEMS
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS SOFTWARE
|
(4)
(3)
(1) |
Strongly recommended courses
PSI 102
PSY 321
PSY 322 |
STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF DEATH AND DYING
PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF HUMAN AGING
|
(3)
(4)
(4) |
PSY 153 INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY (4)
Principles and facts necessary for an introduction to the scientific understanding of human behavior on a biological and social-personal level. Provides an introduction to basic concepts necessary for specialization in the field. Each semester.
PSY 211 STRESS MANAGEMENT (3)
An introduction to psychological aspects of stress — the etiology and the physiological and psychological consequences of stress. Practical and theoretical experience in a variety of stress management techniques (stress management planning, progressive relaxation, autogenic training, hypnosis, systematic desensitization and implosive therapy). Annually, Fall.
PSY 259 CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY (4)
A study of the development of the individual from infancy through adolescence with emphasis on major developmental theories, specifically as related to psychosexual, psychosocial, cognitive, moral, and physical development. Methodologies in child research are also explored. Requires systematic observation of children and adolescents. Each semester.
PSY 265 PSYCHOLOGY OF GENDER (3)
A psychological examination of the individual development of gender. Findings from psychological research on gender will be reviewed including: interpersonal relations, stereotypes of men and women, physical and mental health, media portrayals, educational biases, career decisions, and individual differences in abilities and personalities. Alternate years, Spring ‘07.
PSY 275 BIOPSYCHOLOGY (4)
This course is intended to provide an overview of physiological psychology. The course will cover the structure and function of neurons and the brain. The course will further explore the biological foundations of behavior and personality including such topics as genetics, brain damage, sensation and perception, eating, sex, sleep, drug addiction, memory, lateralization, emotions, stress, and mental health. Annually, Fall. (Note: Students who took PSY 280: Special Topics: Brain and Behavior cannot enroll in this course.)
PSY 280-289 SPECIAL TOPICS IN PSYCHOLOGY (1-4)
As needed.
PSY 302 ADULT DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY (3)
An exploration of the development of the adult over the following periods of adulthood: the young adult, middle adult years, maturity, and old age. The nature of stability and changes experienced across adulthood in physical, mental and social life will be examined. The influence of gender and cultural differences in adult developmental trajectories will also be considered. Each semester.
PSY 304 CROSS CULTURAL PSYCHOLOGY (3)
This course will provide an overview of the impact of cultural effects on human behavior by focusing on similarities and differences from a global perspective utilizing theories of personality. The purpose of this course is to enhance student sensitivity and awareness of diversity aimed at reducing ethnocentric thinking while sharpening critical thinking skills. Annually, Fall.
PSY 315 ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY (4)
A study of the development and characteristics of anxiety disorders, personality disorders, psychoses, psychosomatic disorders, and mood disorders. Various treatment modalities will also be considered. Each semester.
PSY 321 PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF DEATH AND DYING (4)
A study of death and dying which may include but is not limited to the following: death and self-concept, fear of death, death as becoming, care of the dying, grief, suicide, euthanasia, acceptance of death, funerals, children and death, the law and death and death education. Clinical approaches to dealing with death are also considered. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing or consent of instructor. Annually, Fall.
PSY 322 PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY OF HUMAN AGING (4)
A study of human aging with the goal of developing more fully- functioning persons. Consideration may be given to but not limited to the following: theories of aging; the psychological, sociological, and biological aspects of human aging; the effects of aging on work, intellectual and athletic achievements; personality and adjustment in old age; the psychopathology of human aging; research relating to old age; human sexuality in old age; retirement, successful aging; leisure in old age; and the terminal stage of old age. Field study component is required. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing or consent of instructor. Same as GRN 322. Annually, Fall.
PSY 330 WRITINGS IN PSYCHOLOGY (W) (2)
This course focuses on writing scholarly papers, using content from the field of psychology. There are two major purposes: perfecting skills in writing scholarly papers using the APA style and learning new content from the discipline. Prerequisite: psychology major or minor and consent of instructor. Annually, Spring.
PSY 350 EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY (3)
Same as EDU 350. Each semester.
PSY 355 PSYCHOLOGY OF INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES (3)
An examination of a variety of instructional strategies, the purposes they serve, and the psychological foundations on which they were formulated. There is an emphasis on the way in which these strategies interact with cognitive thinking, personality preferences, course content, and learning styles. Same as EDU 355. As needed.
PSY 370 PSYCHOLOGY OF HUMAN SEXUALITY (3)
An investigation of human sexual behavior, including but not limited to sexuality in its cultural, biological, and social contexts. Examined will be such topics as conception and contraception, physiological and anatomical factors, sexual dysfunction, and variations in sexual behavior. Annually, Spring.
PSY 375 PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING AND MEASUREMENT (3)
This course will cover the basic theories relating to the foundations of testing and measurement. The purpose of this course is to help students understand the use of testing, reliability, validity, designing tests and surveys, and gaining an understanding of the may psychological tests currently used in counseling, education, and the workplace. Annually, Spring.
PSY 401 SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY (3)
An examination of social interactions, the impact of the group on the individual and the impact of
the individual on the group. Focus is on interpersonal behavior and feelings — liking, love, aggression, conformity, communications and attitude formation and change. Same as SOC 401. Annually, Spring.
PSY 404 EARLY ADOLESCENTS AND SCHOOLING (W) (3)
Same as EDU 404. Each semester.
PSY 405 INDUSTRIAL/ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY (3)
The application of psychological methods and techniques to the solution of human problems in industry and business. Topics considered are behavior in organizations, environments and behavior, the organization complex, group behavior and individual adjustment, organizational climates, motivation and supervision of employees, and selection of and development of employees. Annually, Spring.
PSY 406 PSYCHOLOGY OF THE EXCEPTIONAL CHILD (4)
The identification and characteristics of the various classes of exceptional persons, including those with physical, mental, emotional and social conditions, as well as those of superior ability. Emphasis is placed upon the needs of exceptional persons, and attention is given to the modification of the environment and teaching techniques to meet those needs. The “culturally different” child is also studied. At discretion of instructor, a field study component is required observing exceptional children in the public or parochial schools. Each semester.
PSY 417 THEORIES OF PERSONALITY (4)
A systematic review of the major personality theories, emphasizing a study of the development and dynamics of personality and its measurement, specifically as related to the individual student. Prerequisite: PSY 315. Annually, Spring.
PSY 419 HUMAN AGING: PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH (4)
An in-depth study of the mental and physical health of the middle aged and old aged populations. Some areas studied are: functional disorders, organic brain disorders, racism, sexism, alcoholism, sexuality, general treatment principles, psychotherapy, illness patterns among the elderly, biomedical changes in the skin; changes in the skeletomuscular system, neurosensory system, gastrointestinal tract, cardiopulmonary system, urinary, endocrine and genital system, etc. Same as GRN 419. As needed.
PSY 440 SENIOR SURVEY IN PSYCHOLOGY (3)
This course is designed for psychology majors to prepare them for graduate school and also for the professional field. The course will include a review of the history of psychology, psychological theories, and current research in the field. There will be an emphasis on transfer of this knowledge to both the graduate school and the professional field. Prerequisite: Junior/Senior Standing. Annually, Fall.
PSY 450 COUNSELING AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (4)
Introduction to the various techniques of counseling. Course will include an overview of humanistic, psychoanalytic, behavior and cognitive therapy approaches. Prerequisites: PSY 315 and 8 additional credits in psychology. Each semester.
PSY 460 -EXPERIMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
AND RESEARCH METHODS (W) (4)
Research methods and laboratory experimentation in psychology with an emphasis on a senior thesis involving a research project that includes design, implementation and data analysis. Prerequisite: MTH 310. Concurrent enrollment in CSI 108 required and PSY 330 recommended. Each semester.
PSY 465 SPORT AND HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY (3)
This course will cover primary theories and applications in sport and health behaviors. Theories will be drawn from social psychology, health psychology, cognitive psychology, exercise psychology, and sports psychology. Specific topics will include personality characteristics, motivation, goal-setting, attributions, concentration, imagery, aggression, group dynamics, communication and counseling techniques, research methodologies, and behavior modification. An extensive research paper, group presentation, and individual behavior modification project will be included in the course. Same as PED 465. As needed.
PSY 470 INTERNSHIP IN PSYCHOLOGY (W) (3-8)
PSY 480 INDEPENDENT STUDY IN PSYCHOLOGY (1-4)
PSY 490 SEMINAR IN PSYCHOLOGY (1-4)
As needed.