Course Listings

Introduction to Psychology

PSYC 100 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: A survey of the basic principles, research concepts, and problems in psychological science. The biological, cognitive, and social perspectives of human thought and behavior are addressed. The goal is to apply major concepts and use the scientific method to enhance the understanding of individual, community, and organizational life experiences. Topics include neuroscience, sensation and perception, learning and conditioning, memory, motivation, language and intelligence, personality and social behavior, and psychopathology and therapy. Applications of psychology are also presented. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 101 or PSYC 100.

Social Psychology

PSYC 220 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Formerly PSYC 321). Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of the influence of social factors on individual and interpersonal behaviors. The objective is to analyze how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are affected by the presence of others (actual or imagined). Topics include the self, social perception, social cognition and information processing, relationships, attitudes, social influence, and group behavior. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 221, BEHS 421, BEHS 450, PSYC 220, PSYC 221, or PSYC 321.

Lifespan Development

PSYC 251 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Formerly PSYC 351.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An integrated study of the biological, socioemotional, and cognitive development of humans from conception through death. Applied is knowledge of lifespan development to interpersonal, community, and organizational relationships. Emphasis is on the interaction of nature and nurture on one's physiology, capability, and potential at each progressive stage of development.

Research Methods in Psychology

PSYC 300 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisites: PSYC 100 and STAT 200. A survey of research methods focusing on the fundamentals of research design and behavior. The aim is to apply research methodologies critically and creatively to communicate effectively about the domains of psychology. Topics include scientific writing using APA style, evaluation of research literature, and ethical issues in research. Practice is provided in asking research questions, formulating research hypotheses, designing and conducting a simulated research study, and presenting results. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 300 or PSYC 305.

Biological Basis of Behavior

PSYC 301 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to the anatomical structures and physiological processes that determine behavior. The objective is to use scientifically valid resources to communicate effectively about the biological basis of behavior. Topics include the acquisition and processing of sensory information, the neural control of movement, and the biological bases of complex behaviors (such as sleep, learning, memory, sex, and language), as well as the basic functioning of the nervous system.

Special Topics in Psychology

PSYC 306 | 1 - 3 Credits

Course Desc: Seminar discussion of topics of current interest. Areas explored may extend or augment those covered in more general topical courses. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

Special Topics in Biological Psychology

PSYC 307 | 1 - 3 Credits

Course Desc: Seminar discussion of topics of current interest. Areas explored may extend or augment those covered in more general topical courses. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

Sleep and Dreams

PSYC 307H | 1 Credit

Course Desc: An introduction to the clinical, cultural, and research aspects of sleep and dreams. The aim is to understand the various scientific theories on the nature of sleep and dreams. Topics include historical and theoretical approaches to sleep and dreams, sleep deprivation and disorders, biological rhythms, typical dreams, and dream interpretation.

Special Topics in Social Psychology

PSYC 308 | 1 - 3 Credits

Course Desc: Seminar discussion of topics of current interest. Areas explored may extend or augment those covered in more general topical courses. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

Psychology of Motivating People at Work

PSYC 308H | 1 Credit

Course Desc: An examination of successful strategies for motivating people in work settings. The goal is to apply knowledge of the evolutionary, learning, social, and cognitive theories of motivation in the workplace. Topics include managerial and personal motivational strategies in organizations.

Special Topics in Professional Psychology

PSYC 309 | 1 - 3 Credits

Course Desc: Seminar discussion of topics of current interest. The goal is to attain specialized knowledge in a particular area of professional psychology. Topics may extend or augment those covered in more general courses. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

Stress and Stress Management

PSYC 309BP | 1 Credit

Course Desc: This course is an exploration of the nature and causes of stress and techniques for its management. The aim is to identify a variety of techniques to mitigate stress. The biopsychosocial perspective is examined in relation to the stresses produced in a variety of contexts. The four main areas of study are the physiological effects of stressors, the impact of cognitive appraisal, interpersonal relationships, and techniques for the management of personal stress.

Managing Interpersonal Stress and Conflict

PSYC 309K | 1 Credit

Course Desc: An exploration of the nature and causes of stress and techniques for its management. The aim is to identify a variety of techniques to mitigate stress. Topics include psychological processes that cause interpersonal conflict and those that can bring about its reduction, as well as interpersonal and group factors, such as cooperation and negotiation.

Psychology of Grief and Loss

PSYC 309KL | 1 Credit

Course Desc: Life and grieving are ongoing processes. The experience of grief and loss varies with individuals and can result in a multitude of outcomes ranging from threatening to transformative. This course is designed to equip students with a deeper understanding of variations in individuals¿ paths through grief and loss as they relate to the type of losses, coping styles, cultural contexts, and worldviews. Through an examination of perspectives on death, dying, grief, and loss, students can gain a greater appreciation for life, living, and posttraumatic growth.

Emotional Well-Being

PSYC 309VG | 1 Credit

Course Desc: This course provides an overview of emotional well-being and concepts that can promote an understanding of personal emotions and overall psychological health. In this course, students will learn information pertaining to emotional IQ, or EQ, and developing self-regulated, emotional wellness and happiness. Students will explore the science behind emotion, self-management techniques, as well as methods to address heathy relationships. The course also looks at different strategies for building emotional intelligence, such as taking ownership of emotions, becoming emotionally self-aware, and identifying emotions. This one credit hour seminar consists of a combination of classroom lecture and online work.

Sensation and Perception

PSYC 310 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of theories and historical and contemporary research in how the auditory, visual, gustatory, olfactory, kinesthetic, and tactile senses acquire information and how psychological, anatomical, physiological, and environmental factors help us perceive the world. The objective is to apply an understanding of complex neural and behavioral processes to evaluate research and analyze variations within and between species.

Psychology of Human Sexuality

PSYC 332 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of human sexuality and sexual behavior. The objective is to apply knowledge of the physiology and psychology of human sexuality. Topics include sexual anatomy, intimate relationships, sexual health, and sexual identity across the lifespan. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 363, HLTH 377, or PSYC 332.

Theories of Personality

PSYC 335 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Formerly PSYC 435.) Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A study of major theories and perspectives on personality. The goal is to explain and evaluate major concepts in personality. Topics include trait, psychodynamic, behavioral, and humanistic theories. Methods of personality research and relevant findings are also introduced. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 335 or PSYC 435.

Psychology of Gender

PSYC 338 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of the biology, lifespan development, socialization, personality attributes, mental health factors, and special considerations associated with gender. The aim is to apply knowledge of cultural and historical influences relating to gender. Topics include conceptions of gender, gender roles, and gender similarities and differences.

Memory and Cognition

PSYC 341 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An introduction to basic models, methods of research, and findings in the fields of memory, problem solving, and language. The objective is to apply knowledge of cognitive processes to a variety of situations, including organizational and educational settings. Both applications and theory are explored.

Psychopathology and Mental Health

PSYC 353 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of mental disorders across the lifespan. The goal is to evaluate emerging issues in psychopathology and mental health. Topics include the identification and diagnosis of specific disorders and the evolution of treatment protocols. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PSYC 331, PSYC 353, or PSYC 431.

Cross-Cultural Psychology

PSYC 354 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of the interplay of individual, ethnic, and cultural factors in psychosocial growth and well-being. The objective is to use theory, research, and the practiced utilization of cultural factors to understand identity development, communication, social institutions and norms, health and well-being, cross-cultural interpersonal relations, and cultural humility and competence. Issues of globalization, diversity, cultural bias, and intersectionality are addressed.

Industrial and Organizational Psychology

PSYC 361 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: PSYC 300 and 321. A general survey of the field of industrial/organizational psychology. The objective is to examine the behavioral, sociocultural, and ethical factors that influence workplace environments. Topics include entering into the organization and evaluating and changing individual workplace behaviors.

Psychology of Stress

PSYC 386 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. An examination of the forces that define and determine the stress response. The aim is to apply stress management techniques to remediate the negative impact of stress. Stress is studied as the product of the interactions among one's social structure, occupational status, and psychological and physiological levels of well-being. The psychological perspective is examined in relation to the stresses produced in a variety of contexts, such as families and work organizations. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BEHS 463, HLTH 285, or PSYC 386.

Introduction to Counseling Psychology

PSYC 432 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. Recommended: PSYC 300 and PSYC 335. A survey and critical analysis of research and intervention strategies developed and used by counseling psychologists. The goal is to evaluate current trends in content and methodology. Topics include counseling protocols in various applied settings.

Introduction to Clinical Psychology

PSYC 436 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of the field of clinical psychology as a distinct mental health discipline. The objective is to evaluate current trends in content and methodology. History of the field, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies employed by clinical psychologists, ethical issues, and working with diverse populations are explored. Emphasis is on the scientist practitioner model and the critical analysis of theories and empirical research.

Positive Psychology

PSYC 437 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: PSYC 100. A survey of the science of positive psychology. The aim is to analyze and evaluate theories and applications of positive psychology. Focus is on the unique characteristics of the human experience that contribute to health and well-being. Topics include hope, optimism, human strengths, happiness, flow, and attachment.

Psychology Capstone

PSYC 495 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: Completion of 24 credits of required major courses including PSYC 100 and PSYC 300. A capstone study of psychology that integrates knowledge gained through previous coursework and experience. The aim is to build on that conceptual foundation through case study, reflective essays, and portfolio development.