Course Descriptions

PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
The purpose of this course is to introduce the theories, research and applications that constitute the field psychology as it is broadly defined. Students will learn about the field of psychology through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, group activities, and multi-media presentations. Emerging issues in the field of psychology, what different types of psychologists do, and how to critically evaluate psychological literature will be covered. May be applied towards GE categories D & E.

PSY 202 Statistics (3)
Weekly three-hour lecture/laboratory instruction and exercise.
Prerequisite: A passing score on the Entry Level Mathematics Exam (ELM) or credit for Math 105 (or equivalent).
Critical reasoning using a quantitative and statistical problem-solving approach to solve real-world problems. Uses probability and statistics to describe and analyze biological and psychological data collected from laboratory or field experiments. Course will cover descriptions of sample data, probability and empirical data distributions, sampling techniques, estimation and hypothesis testing, ANOVA, and correlation and regression analysis. Students will use standard statistical software (SPSS) to analyze real world and simulated data. May be applied towards GE categories B3 & B4. Same as BIOL 202.

PSY 210 Learning, Cognition and Development (3)
3 hours lecture per week
This course presents an overview of the theories of learning, cognition, and human development. Major theories of learning and of psychological, emotional, and ethical development will be covered, with consideration given to the application of these theories in real life setting such as schools and other organizations. May be applied towards GE categories D & E.

PSY 211 Cognition and Learning (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite PSY 100 may be taken concurrently
This course examines psychological theories of cognition as they apply to learning. Theories introduced in this course will seek to explain learning phenomenon and provide a conceptual framework for understanding and discussing behavior and cognition. Practical applications and current research in the cognitive sciences will also be discussed.

PSY 212 Neurobiology and Cognitive Science (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Principles of brain organization and function underlying behavior. Topics include neuroanatomy and physiology of language, vision, sexual behavior, memory and abnormal behavior. May be applied towards GE categories B2 & E. Same as BIOL 212.

PSY 213 Developmental Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 100 may be taken concurrently
This course represents an in-depth survey of theory and research in developmental psychology throughout the life span. The course introduces students to the biological, cognitive, emotional, social, and linguistic development from the prenatal period to adulthood.

PSY 217 Theories of Personality (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 100 may be taken concurrently
This course examines the major personality theories that are most influential in contemporary psychology. In addition to the theoretical and philosophical analysis of personality concepts, students will learn how the theories are applied by clinical and other psychologists, as psychotherapy, or assessment. The basic philosophical premises that underlie each theory and which reflect the different theorists' view of the world will also be discussed.

PSY 220 Human Sexual Behavior (3)
3 hours lecture per week
This course covers knowledge about the processes and variations in: sexual functions and reproduction; intimate relationships; sexual and gender role development and behavior; and the social, cultural, historical and moral contexts of sex and love. May be applied towards GE categories B2 & E.

PSY 300 Psychological Research and Statistical Methods with Lab I, 3 units
PSY 301 Psychological Research and Statistical Methods with Lab II, 3 units
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology, or consent of the instructor. PSY 300 must be passed with grade C or better to enroll in PSY 301
This is a year-long course is designed for undergraduate students majoring in psychology or related fields. The course will provide an introduction to research methodology and a basic framework to critically evaluate social and behavioral science research. Students will learn what it means to apply the scientific method within the field of psychology and the social sciences. Ethical guidelines and issues related to the research in, and practice of, psychology will be covered. Students will also learn to evaluate research and popular claims in psychology with a critical eye. Coursework on inferential and descriptive statistical methods will build on material from PSY 202. Lab work will also introduce students to computer applications related to statistics and research. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 303 Statistical Applications in the Social Sciences (3)
4 hours lecture/lab per week
Prerequisite: Math 105 or equivalent
This course introduces students to quantitative methods as used in social science research and prepares them for statistical literacy. Students will learn to use descriptive and inferential statistics to test hypotheses. Basic topics covered in the class include graphical representations, central tendency and variability, chi-squared and other nonparametric techniques, correlation and regression, and mean difference tests as applied to research methods and data commonly used in the social sciences. Measurement and psychometric issues unique to social science data will be covered. Students will use SPSS to analyze data. Same as PSY 303/POLS 303

PSY 305 Field Research Methods (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisites PSY 300 and PSY 301 and PSY 303 or PSY 202
Principles and practices of field research methods in basic and applied social science research settings. The relationship between field and laboratory studies are highlighted with a special emphasis on survey and evaluation research methods and study designs, client and respondent relationships, and research and public policy.

PSY 310 History and Systems of Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology, or consent of the instructor
This course examines the historical development of psychological thought and methodology, from its origins in philosophy, its attempts to become a natural sciences, through the Diaspora of contemporary psychological thought. The major schools of psychology (e.g., Behaviorism, Cognitive, Gestalt, Psychoanalysis), will be explored in context of their philosophical and cultural influences. Ethical stances related to psychological practice will be explored for each period discussed.

PSY 312 Social Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology, or consent of the instructor
This course examines the psychology of the individual in relationship with others, including social influences on personality formation, social interaction, individual and group differences, prejudices and conflicts, communication, and perception.

PSY 313 Clinical and Abnormal Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology, or consent of the instructor
This course examines so-called abnormal behaviors in context of so-called normal behaviors, historical and cross-cultural perspectives, and clinical practice. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-IV), which is the classification system adopted by most mental health professionals will be covered. Psychodiagnostic methods and treatment approaches are also examined. Current social issues related to mental health, such as involuntary commitment, group home alternatives for care, client-therapist confidentiality, and other pertinent topics will be introduced. Careers in clinical psychology will be discussed.

PSY 314 Behavioral Neuroscience (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology, or consent of the instructor
This course is an introduction to the neurological and physiological factors related to cognition, emotion, language, learning, motivation, perception, and memory. A brief survey of neuroanatomy as well as the basic concepts of clinical neuropsychology are included. The effects of chemical signals (hormones, neurohormones, and pheromones) on behavior, as well as the effect of behavior on these chemical systems are also covered.

PSY 316 Sensation and Perception (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper division standing
This course will examine the psychological and physiological mechanisms underlying sensation and perception. Topics include the measurement of sensation and the physiological basis of sensation and perception.

PSY 327 Parenting (3)
Prerequisites PSY 100, PSY 211, PSY 213
Examines theories of parent-child relations across the life-span and introduces the theoretical frameworks, research, and applications of parenting techniques and strategies.

PSY 333 Measurement and Testing of Groups and Individuals(3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
This course covers the principles of measurement as applied to group standardized measures of achievement, special aptitude, intelligence, personality, and interest for use in educational settings. This course will also survey the administering, scoring, and interpreting of these measures. Language and culture issues related to testing will be explored. May be applied towards GE categories D, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary.

PSY 337 Psychological Ethics and Moral Philosophy (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
This course provides students with a broad overview of some of the main philosophical and moral ideas that are used as a basis for resolving debates in psychology, the mental health fields and public health. This course will challenge students to develop their own capacities to analyze, criticize, evaluate, and construct policy-oriented arguments. May be applied towards GE categories A3, D, &Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 338 Psychology of Art and Artists (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
An inquiry into the mind of the artist and the emotional dynamics that underlie the creative process. Emphasis is placed on deciphering personal allegory and universal symbolism hidden within a wide range of visual and conceptual genres. Concepts underlying the evolution of artistic style, spirituality, and aesthetics in traditional Eastern and Western cultures will also be explored. May be applied towards GE categories C1, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Same as ART 336.

PSY 339 Psychopathology and Literature (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
This course the ways in which human psychology manifests in literature and the ways literature instructs us about human psychology. Through reading, writing about, and discussing texts with particularly rich psychological content issues related to mental health and the human condition will be explored. The course will also cover some theoretical and technical aspects of psychology relevant to the readings. May be applied towards GE categories C2, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Course is designated as Writing Intensive. Same as ENGL 339.

PSY 340 History and Psychology of Nazi Germany(3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
Examines the historical and psychological roots of the Nazi movement in Germany. Areas covered will include the mass psychology of fascism, the psychopathology of Nazi leaders, and the psychological impact of the holocaust. Fulfills the world history requirements. May be applied towards GE categories D & Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Same as HIST 340.

PSY 342 Complementary and Alternative Health (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Major types of disabilities and giftedness, including definitions, causes, characteristics, and educational implications. Topics include: disability perspectives and social, legal, and educational considerations of disability issues.

PSY 344 Psychology and Traditional Asian Thought (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
This course examines the differences and similarities between the Western practice of psychology and traditional Asian systems of philosophy and religion. Concepts of health, well-being and enlightenment, and pathology will be considered from both Western and Asian viewpoints. Particular attention will be given to Buddhism, Taoism, and depth psychologies. Readings will be drawn from classical Asian literature as well as contemporary psychology. Mediation and other practices will be explored in context of Western psychologies. May be applied towards GE categories C3b, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary.

PSY 345 Individuals with Disabilities and Society (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
Major types of disabilities and giftedness, including definitions, causes, characteristics, and educational implications. Disability perspectives. Social, legal, and educational considerations of disability issues. May be applied towards GE category D &Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Same as SPED 345.

PSY 346 Psychology of Motivation (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing
The course specifically aims to help students understand themselves and others from a psychological and physiological perspective. Indeed, the course unites these two perspectives for a more complete understanding of human actions. Overall goals of the course are for students to be able to apply different motivational theories to diverse problems, develop the ability to think critically about complex human problems and to learn to develop solutions for these problems. Student will also learn about the factors involved in the motivational topics covered, including eating, drinking, love, sex, violence, emotions, drug use, gangs, and workplace productivity. May be applied towards GE category D & Upper Division Interdisciplinary.

PSY 348 Healthy Aging (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Explores physical, cultural and psychosocial factors influencing health issues during the elderly years of life. Topics include aging stereotypes, cultural and family influences on the elderly, physiology of aging, lifestyles choices associated with healthy aging, and end of life care.

PSY 357 Psychology of Families (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Description A study of the dynamics of the family as a social system, with emphasis on recent research regarding processes of family change, dissolution, disorgan HEALTHY AGING Units (3) ization and reorganization. Traces the historical development of the modern family; role expectations of husbands, wives, parents and children; examines family diversity with respect to ethnicity/race, sexuality, and income.

PSY 370 Fundamentals in Counseling Theory (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisites PSY 100, PSY 213 and PSY 217
Description Overview of selected counseling theories and models used in private practice, school, and community settings. Focus is on relating theory to practice, counselor-client relationships, counseling in a culturally diverse society, case studies, methods of adult and child assessment, and professional ethics.

PSY 400 Case Studies in Psychopathology and Clinical Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite PSY 313 or consent of the instructor
An advance undergraduate course on the etiology, classification and treatment of human psychopathology.

PSY 410 Psychological Testing (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 202 or consent of the instructor
Surveys the administration and interpretation of objective and projective personality and educational assessment instruments. Basic assessment issues will be discussed as well as ethical and cultural issues related to testing.

PSY 415 Assessment of Children (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 333 or permission of instructor
This course is an intensive study in the cognitive-intellectual, emotional, and developmental assessment of children. Relevant testing instruments will discussed along with their applications. Literature on the concepts of intelligence, cognition, emotional development, and specific developmental disorders in children will also be discussed. Students will have a chance to practice administering tests and writing reports. Issues of language and culture related to the assessment of children will also be discussed. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 420 African American Families (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Examines the structure, values, and behavior patterns of the contemporary African American family as influenced by African culture and kinship systems and the institution of slavery in association with other factors. The orientation to African American family life will emphasize its strengths, weaknesses, adaptations, strong kinship bonds, and family roles.

PSY 424 Organizational Behavior (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: MGT 307 or by Instructor's Consent
An application of behavioral science theory and concepts with a focus on individual, interpersonal and group processes in a diverse work force. Topics include personality traits, emotions, values, work attitudes, work motivation, organizational politics, group effectiveness and conflict. Extensive use of individual and group case analysis. Same as MGT 424

PSY 429 Intergroup Relations (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior Standing
Provides an overview of the social psychological study of intergroup relations, emphasizing underlying social and individual dynamics. Considers theory and research in the field and the application of these to a variety of societies and groups. Topics include the importance of groups in individual identity development; stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination; intergroup inequality and injustice; collective action, and social protest.

PSY 432 Seminar in Leadership (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor
This course gives students an opportunity to both study and experience communicative, managerial, psychological and sociological perspectives related to leadership. This includes in-depth study of aggression and dominance, group structure and behavior, decision-making and the role of personality in leadership. GenEd: D,E, Interdiscipinary

PSY 436 Psychology and History of Asian Warrior Cultures(3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper division standing or consent of instructor
Examines the psychological and historical roots of warrior cultures in Asia. Through selected readings and films the underpinnings of warrior psychology in traditional Asian cultures will be explored in historical context. May be applied towards GE category D, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Course is designated as Writing Intensive. Same as HIST 336

PSY 441 The Psychology of Space (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper division standing or consent of instructor
This course examines different psychological views of space and time, including how we define, and organize space and place. The course will examine the idea of psycho-geography as represented in the works of Yi Fu Tuan, Gaston Bachelard's The Poetics of Space, and Mircea Eliade's concept of sacred space, and James Hillman's concept of the anima mundi. The course will also look at how different cultures understand space through an examination of traditional philosophies, religions, myths and rituals. May be applied towards GE category D, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 442 Applied Multivariate Analyses (4)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY202, PSY 301 or consent of instructor
An applied overview of multivariate data analysis. Specific topics include multiple regression, discriminant analysis, canonical correlation analysis, factor analysis, cluster analysis, conjoint analysis, multivariate analysis of variance and structural equation modeling. The usage of the above methods will be illustrated through examples from diverse content areas. Lab includes an introduction to multivariate computer data. May be applied towards GE category B4 & Upper Division Interdisciplinary. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 445 Adolescent Development (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: Upper Division Standing, PSY 213 or consent of instructor
Psychosocial dynamics of adolescents and young adults. Topics include physical and maturational development, theories of adolescence, family and peer group influences, sexuality, cognitive and vocational development, schooling and youth culture. May be applied towards GE category D, E, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary

PSY 449 Human-computer Interaction (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: COMP 350 or equivalent
The information exchange between humans and computer systems will be examined. Aspects of input/output devices, software engineering, and human factors will be discussed with respect to human-computer interactions. Topics include: text and graphic display, user modeling, program design, debugging, complexity, and comprehension; and current research studies and methodologies. May be applied towards GE category B4, D, & Upper Division Interdisciplinary

PSY 450 Advances in Neural Science (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 212 and PSY 314
This course surveys current research on the nervous system, its development, and its control of behavior. The course also describes some neurological and behavioral disorders that are both instructive scientifically and important clinically. Includes inferences that can be made about human brain functions from the effects of neurological trauma and clinical tests.

PSY 457 Criminal Behavior (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 313 or consent of the instructor
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of criminal psychology through the study of the psychological factors which relate to or cause criminal behavior in individuals. The practice of forensic psychology, the legal system, law enforcement psychology, prison psychology, and the criminal behavior of groups will also be discussed.

PSY 460 Addiction Studies (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisites PSY 100, PSY 217 and PSY 313
Focuses on the influence of addictive disorders on individuals, family and society. Applies a multidisciplinary analytical framework. Topics include theories of addiction, pharmacology of drug use, assessment, family and community responses, treatment interventions, and policy issues related to societal responses to and treatment of addictions.

PSY 461 Advanced Topics in Child and Adolescent (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 210 or PSY 313 or consent of instructor
This course represents an in-depth study of aspects of growth and development which influence behavior of the school-age children and adolescents. Using primary sources and current research findings students will gain an understanding of research methods in child development and a critical appreciation of the practice of child psychology. Different areas of child and adolescent development will be considered from cross-cultural perspectives.

PSY 470 Seminar in Freud and Object Relations Theory (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 313 or consent of instructor
An overview of the works of Freud and neo-Freudian schools of thought. Emphasis on both structural and developmental models in psychoanalytic thought. This course will also examine how these theories are applied to the individual and to society at large. Feminist and non-Western cultural interpretations of these theories will also be discussed. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 471 Seminar in Jungian and Archetypal Psychology (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 313 or consent of instructor
An overview of the works of Jung and neo-Jungian schools of thought. Emphasis on both structural and phenomenological views of Jung's work. This course will also examine how these theories are applied to the individual and to society at large. Structural theories of mythology both Eastern and Western will be discussed in context of Jung's work. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 473 Bizarre Behavior and Culture Bound Syndromes (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 313 or consent of instructor
This course examines behaviors which seem to be at the extreme edge of the human repertoire. Nevertheless, such behaviors have at different times and cultures been considered normal. Students in this course will examine such behaviors with an open mind, while attempting to understand that so-called normal behaviors in our own culture could be construed as abnormal in other parts of the world. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 482 Intermediate Statistics(3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisites PSY 300 and PSY 301 and PSY 303 or PSY 202
Presents advanced statistical analyses and their application including factorial designs, multivariate analysis of variance, and multiple regression. Emphasizes is on both the theoretical and applied aspects of the various statiscal approaches.

PSY 483 Applied Multivariate Analyses (4)
Three hours lecture and two hours lab per week
Prerequisite: PSY202, PSY 301; or consent of instructor
An applied overview of multivariate data analysis. Topics include multiple regression, discriminant analysis, canonical correlation analysis, factor analysis, cluster analysis, conjoint analysis, multivariate analysis of variance and an introduction to structural equation modeling.

PSY 490 Advances Topics in Psychology (1-3)
Up to 3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite: PSY 301 or consent of instructor
A seminar course which provides an in-depth study of some aspect of psychology. Content varies and so the course is repeatable.

PSY 492 Psychological Internship or Service Learning (1-3)
Contracted with Psychology faculty member
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology
Supervised work/volunteer experience in an appropriate setting. Includes supervision in the field from an appropriate person with credentials and/or experience in a specialty related to psychology. Students are required to write a report of their experience. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 494 Independent Research in Psychology (1-3)
Contracted with Psychology faculty member
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology
Research project for undergraduate students supervised by members of the psychology faculty. Research to be elected on basis of interest of student. A written report of the research is required. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.

PSY 497 Directed Study in Psychology (1-3)
Contracted with Psychology faculty member
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing in Psychology
An intensive study of some aspect of psychology, usually via an in-depth review of the literature. Intended for undergraduate students supervised by members of the psychology faculty. This course can be used as preparations for the Psychology Subject Area GRE Exam. A written report or GRE Psychology Subject Test score is required.

PSY 499 Senior Capstone Course (1-3)
Contracted with Psychology faculty member
Prerequisite: Upper Division standing as a Psychology major
This course is an interdisciplinary experience in which students work in teams, contributing their expertise to a community-based project group. A written report of the research is required. Course is designated as Writing Intensive.