B.A. in Psychology: Curriculum

This course introduces the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Psychological, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, psychodynamic and social-cultural perspectives are explored. Topics such as scientific method, statistical reasoning, neuroscience, learning, cognitive processes, development, psychological adjustment, therapy, social psychology, diversity and community are studied.

This course is a scientific study of human development from prenatal life through death, with emphasis on the interplay of psychological processes, heredity, and environment. This review addresses physical, cognitive, and socioemotional changes across the lifespan (Corequisite: PSY 102; Bachelor of Science Nursing students no prerequisite)

This course introduces students to important insights and theoretical principles of modern cognitive science. Students study human cognition, perception and attention, memory, knowledge representation, language, reasoning, problem solving, cognitive development, creativity, learning, and individual differences in cognition. (Prerequisite: PSY 102; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

Students are introduced to the field of counseling and other related helping professions. A variety of counseling theories, approaches, and processes are considered, along with their application. The roles, functions, responsibilities, challenges, and ethical issues involved in the provider-client relationship are explored throughout the course. Students will study and develop a working knowledge of the foundational skills involved in becoming an effective helping professionals. (Prerequisite: PSY 102; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

An introduction to the study of abnormal psychology. The course covers a wide range of behaviors that are distressing to a person or society or which are otherwise identified as abnormal. A comprehensive review of the etiologies of psychological disorders, discussion of available treatments and a focus on the effects that mental illness has on the individual, the family system, and society are included. Current controversies in the field are identified. (Prerequisite: PSY 102; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course introduces the student to a variety of classic and contemporary theories of personality. Issues in personality measurement and assessment techniques will also be presented and discussed. (Prerequisite: PSY 102; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course covers the comprehensive scope of best-practice research methods and statistical analysis techniques used in psychological research. Students will gain experience with different research methods and hypothesis testing as well as become proficient in writing within the realm of psychological research. An in-depth review of descriptive and inferential statistical analysis techniques applied within psychological research will also be conducted. (Prerequisites: PSY 102; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

Students examine how the individual’s personality, behavior and attitudes are shaped through interaction with others. The course deals with such issues as conformity, persuasion, aggression, altruism, and attraction. Individual behavior is understood in light of symbolic communication and the social construction of the self. (Prerequisite: SOC 151 or PSY 102; Strongly recommend junior standing or higher)

This course covers the application of psychological science to the legal system. The broad impact of human cognition and behavior on police selection and procedures, victimology, deception, eyewitness testimony, jury selection, and jury decision making are examined. Mental illness and psychopathy within the legal system are also explored. (Prerequisite: PSY 102; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

In this overview of health psychology, students will learn about the major theories of health psychology and its role in the field of psychology. The course will include study of the biopsychosocial model of health, the interaction of physical and psychological factors, health-promoting and health-compromising behaviors, lifestyle choices and their impact on health and well-being, the role of health beliefs, importance of coping with stress, and the application of health psychology principles in the treatment of illness and promotion of health. (Prerequisite: PSY 102; Strongly recommend junior standing or higher)

This course is designed for advanced psychology students who would like to broaden their knowledge of best-practice research methods and techniques. Through individual faculty mentoring, students will complete research projects and prepare them for presentation and/or publication. (Prerequisites: PSY 102 and PSY 380).

This course is designed for advanced psychology students who would like to broaden their knowledge of best-practice research methods and techniques. Through individual faculty mentoring, students will complete research projects and prepare them for presentation and/or publication. (Prerequisites: PSY 102, PSY 380 and PSY 496).

This internship provides the student with an in-depth field experience in a work setting that provides services that are psychological in nature. The student will learn to apply psychological theories and principles to the internship experience via coursework that is conducted in conjunction with the internship. The student will independently select an appropriate internship site that meets the needs and vocational interests of the student. (Prerequisite: PSY 102 and sophomore standing or higher).