Psychology (PSY)

 

College of Liberal Studies

Department Chair: Betsy Morgan

335A Graff Main Hall, 608.785.8440

e-mail: bmorgan@uwlax.edu

 

Psychology Advising Office

343 Graff Main Hall

608.785.6880

 

www.uwlax.edu/psychology

 

Professors: Blumentritt, Cerbin, Martin-Stanley, Morgan, Oyster;

Associate Professors: Cary, De Boer, Johnson, Newton, Tobin, Van Voorhis;

Assistant Professors: Basten, Deason, Dixon, R., Kortenkamp, Marshik, McKelley, O’Brien, Sullivan, S., Vaden,  Wang;

Lecturers: Caya, Maren.

 

Psychology Major Admission

(All colleges) — Students who wish to declare Psychology as a major must complete Milestone #1 described below. In addition, in order to progress through the required courses associated with the major, students must also complete Milestone #2 described below. (This milestone must be met before enrolling in PSY 331).

 

Milestone #1 = Complete online “new major” tutorial and a face-to-face meeting with the psychology department advising coordinator in the psychology advising center. (This milestone must be met prior to enrolling in the required course, PSY 210).

 

Milestone #2 = Earn a “C” or better in PSY 100 and MTH 145; complete ENG 110 and CST 110; have a combined GPA of at least 2.25 for these four courses; and complete a minimum of 30 credits.

 

Students transferring to UW-L with a college parallel associate degree may satisfy milestone #2 by transferring PSY 100 and MTH 145 with grades of “C” or better (or by taking those courses at UW-L and earning “C” or better). The other components of Milestone #2 will be waived: ENG 110 and CST 110; GPA of 2.25 for PSY 100, MTH 145, ENG 110 and CST 110; 30 credit earned minimum.

 

Psychology Major

(All colleges) — 35 credits – (39 total credits including MTH) Select courses as listed in the following ten categories. Credits not used from categories II through VII may be used in categories IX and X as electives. MTH 145 is also required.

  1. General Psychology (3 credits): PSY 100; PSY 200 strongly recommended.

  2. Experimental and Research Methods (three courses): PSY 331; PSY 420 or 451; MTH 145. 

  3. Psychopathology/Social/Personality (six credits): PSY 304, 341, 402. Students interested in human service related work or graduate school should take both 304 and 402 as their courses in this category.

  4. Developmental Psychology (three credits): PSY 210. Three additional credits recommended from PSY 355, 356, 357, 358.

  5. Cognition (three credits): PSY 335, 435, 436.

  6. Bio-Psychological (three credits): PSY 330, 430, 431, 434, 439.    

  7. Application Courses (three credits): PSY 302, 334, 343, 347, 370, 376, 401.

  8. Experiential (one credit): PSY 295, 308, 309, 405, 450, 481, 482, 485. The department strongly encourages students to take more than one credit in this category, particularly in PSY 309 or 450.

  9. General Elective Credit (three credits): PSY 107, 282, 285, 318 (also count toward General Education electives), and/or developmental credits: PSY 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360, and/or other elective credits: PSY 200, 205, 259, 291, 305, 317, 320, 330, 391, 395, PSY/PHL 301, 333.

  10. Advanced Electives (three credits): PSY 403, 404, 410, 417, 426, 441, 444, 461, 489, and 491. May include any additional 400-level courses from Categories II, III, V, VI and VII.

 

The department strongly recommends that all psychology students take PSY 331 in their sophomore year or early in their junior year. Once students have declared psychology as a major, they should plan on at least four semesters to complete the sequence of courses necessary for graduation with a psychology major. This does not include the time it takes to complete General Education credits or credits necessary for a minor. We also recommend that students seriously consider taking PSY 200 “Orientation to the Psychology Major” early in their psychology careers and that students consider volunteer work and/or fieldwork as an important part of their psychological training. The psychology major provides solid training in the liberal arts and in research methods.  

 

Students must complete the psychology milestones and declare the psychology major in order to enroll in key major courses that are prerequisites to other courses.

 

Dual Degree Program in Psychology and Occupational Therapy    

This is a special dual degree program which enables a student to receive both a Bachelor of Science (psychology major) and a Master of Science degree (occupational therapy) from UW-L. The total length of time for both degrees is expected to be five and one half years plus summers. Students will typically complete their B.S. in psychology at the conclusion of the fall semester in their fifth year. In order to complete their B.S., students must complete a minimum of 120 credits, including the General Education requirements, the CLS core requirement, the program option of 18 credits at the 300/400 level outside of psychology, and the psychology major. The psychology degree and the occupational therapy degree will share approximately 12 credits (via specific course substitutions) which allows for the shorter course sequence for the students. The dual degree option is available to students with 60 or less credits completed toward their undergraduate degree and a 3.00 cumulative GPA.  

Interested students should contact the occupational therapy program as early in their college careers as possible:

http://www.uwlax.edu/ot/dual_degree.htm._

 

Psychology Minor

(Liberal Studies, Science and Health) — 20 credits – PSY 100, 321 and electives in psychology. Students may not receive credit for both PSY 210 and 212. 12 of the 20 credits must be at the 300/400-level.

 

Psychology Minor

(Business) — 20 credits – PSY 100, 341, 343 (or CST 365 or SOC 334), 376, and additional electives in psychology, including at least one  course from the following: PSY 212, 282, 402, 420, or 451. Students may not receive credit for both PSY 210 and 212.

 

Psychology Education Minor (Early Adolescence-Adolescence Certification)

(Teacher Certification programs) — 24 credits - PSY 100, 304, 321, 335 or 435, and twelve credits of electives excluding PSY 210, 212, 408.

 

Teacher certification candidates must also complete GEO 200 (three credits) and EFN 200 (one credit) to fulfill statutory licensing requirements (credits do not count toward the Psychology Education minor); in addition, Early Adolescence-Adolescence candidates must complete PSY 408 (four credits) unless a major in Social Studies Education (Broad Field), Geography Education, History Education, Political Science Education, or Sociology Education is completed.  

 

Psychology Department Honors Program

The honors program is designed to give qualified students the opportunity to develop their understanding of and skills in psychological research. The honors project is an extensive piece of research designed and conducted by the student under the supervision of a faculty adviser. The honors program has two tracks, one for all eligible psychology majors, and one for psychology McNair scholars.

 

Requirements for admission to the program:

  1. Junior standing   

  2. Completion of PSY 100, 331, MTH 145 before beginning Honors Seminar. PSY 420 before PSY 489 or concurrently with PSY 489

  3. 3.25 cumulative grade point average in psychology courses

  4. A cumulative overall grade point average of 3.00

  5. Recommendation from two department faculty members, one of whom must be a psychology instructor

  6. Completion of an application to the program

Requirements for earning a degree with honors in psychology are:

  1. Completion of psychology major

  2. 3.50 cumulative grade point average in psychology courses*

  3. A cumulative overall grade point average of 3.25*

  4. Completion of Honors Seminar (PSY 489, three credits total) AND completion and presentation of Honors Project (PSY 482, three credits, of which at least one must be completed in the candidate's last semester) OR successful completion of a McNair** project associated with at least 3 credits of PSY 481 or 482, [one credit of PSY 481 or 482 must be completed in the Spring following acceptance into the Honors program].

  5. Exhibit continuous appropriate professional behavior as defined departmental standards

*GPA calculations are based on the last term prior to the term of graduation

 

**McNair psychology honors students must be accepted into McNair prior to applying to psychology honors preferably during the same semester they are applying to honors. It is recommended that students who are eligible for McNair apply to McNair after completing PSY 331 or concurrently with enrollment in PSY 331.

 

Psychology Credit by Examination

Students may earn credit by examination for PSY 100, General Psychology, a three credit course. The following examinations are acceptable:  Advanced Placement Program (AP) in Psychology with a score of 3, 4, or 5; the “Higher Level” International Baccalaureate (IB) with a score of 4 or above; or the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) with a score of 47 or above.  Students should contact the Counseling and Testing Center for information about CLEP; however, once a student has enrolled in PSY 100 they may not petition to earn credit with a CLEP exam.

 

At-Risk Child/Youth Care Minor

 

 

Gerontology Emphasis

 

 

Writing-in-the-major: The psychology department incorporates a significant amount of writing through the required courses instead of identifying particular courses as writing emphasis courses. Students who complete the psychology major will fulfill the university writing emphasis requirement.

 

+ above a course number indicates a

General Education course.

 

+

PSY        100          Cr. 3

General Psychology

A comprehensive introduction to contemporary basic principles and theories of behavior and related processes along with supporting scientific evidence and applications. Topics include sensory processes, perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, developmental change, measurement, social interaction and abnormal behavior. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.

 

+

PSY/BIO 107         Cr. 3
Brain Basics: Linking Society and Neuroscience

Students will be introduced to the field of neuroscience, including an examination of the cells that make the brain operate, how they operate together to form structures and systems, and how the operation of these systems relates to human behavior. The range of behaviors to be examined will include everyday learning and memory, sleeping and dreaming, as well as an exploration of the brain when abnormal behaviors occur. We will also investigate the impact that advances in the neurosciences have had on society in general. (Cross-listed with BIO; may only earn credit in PSY or BIO.) Not applicable to a biology major. Offered Spring.

 

PSY        200          Cr. 1
Orientation to the Psychology Major

This course is an orientation to psychology as a major. It is designed for sophomore level students who have either declared or are considering psychology as a major. It is also appropriate for second semester freshmen or first semester juniors. The field of psychology as a discipline will be discussed as will career options related to the field. Students will be required to complete a variety of tasks designed to identify and/or clarify career paths and goals and increase their understanding of psychology as both an empirical and applied field. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        205          Cr. 3

Effective Behavior

Human adjustment processes in meeting inner needs and the demands of physical and social environment. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        210          Cr. 3

Developmental Psychology

Designed for the psychology major as an introduction to developmental psychology, the course emphasizes the historical, theoretical and methodological approaches to human development across the life span. Psychological principles, concepts, and historical and recent research in the areas of prenatal, cognitive, language, social/emotional, and physical development are explored. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and completion of Psychology Milestone #1. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        212          Cr. 3

Life Span Development

An overview of human development from conception through death. It emphasizes major developmental milestones in several domains, including physical, cognitive and social/emotional. It also introduces students to prominent historical, theoretical, and methodological approaches to human development as well as to practical applications. Does not apply to the psychology major. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY/ESS/WGS 259               Cr. 1

Girls and Women in Sport

An introduction to the involvement of girls and women in sport. Topics include a historical perspective on women’s sport participation, cultural images of women athletes, physiological and psychological benefits of sport participation as well as negative correlates, teaching and coaching implications of current research, Title IX, and recreation/leisure approaches to physical activity. (Cross-listed with ESS and WGS; may only earn credit in PSY, ESS or WGS). Offered occasionally.

 

+

PSY        282          Cr. 3

Cross-Cultural Psychology

An orientation to the definitions, concepts, theories, and methodologies of cross-cultural psychology. Included is an examination of cultural and ecological factors and their influences on perceptual and cognitive processes, personality, language, and other psychological variables. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

+

PSY        285          Cr. 3

Culture and Mental

Health: An Applied Perspective

This course provides an examination of the relationship between culture and mental health. Specific attention is given to the impact of racism, prejudice, and minority status on the lives of various American minority groups and how the effects of these factors reveal themselves within a mental health framework. An eclectic, multidisciplinary approach that draws from clinical and social psychology, as well as sociology, is utilized. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and sophomore standing. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        291          Cr. 1-3

Contemporary Topics in Psychology

Introductory exploration of special topics relevant to the field of Psychology. Topics of specific interest to undergraduate students will be offered periodically. Offerings will be determined by staff/student interest and availability of teaching resources. Prerequisite: PSY 100; departmental approval is necessary to apply more than six credits toward the psychology major. Repeatable for credit — maximum six. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        295          Cr. 1-3

Foreign Study in Psychology

Opportunity for students to participate in a variety of supervised projects limited to foreign study, directed readings, and structured discussions. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Repeatable for credit — maximum three. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY/PHL 301        Cr. 3

Theory of Knowledge

An intensive examination of three major questions: (1) What are the principal grounds of knowledge?  (2) How certain can we really be of what we think we know? (3) Are there limits beyond which we cannot hope to extend knowledge? Strong emphasis is placed on the problems of perception, learning, and knowledge representation. Prerequisite: PSY 100 or PHL 100 or 200. (Cross-listed with PHL 301; may only earn credit in PSY or PHL.) Offered alternate years.

 

PSY        302          Cr. 3

Environmental Issues: Applied Psychology

This course is an exploration of psychological perspectives on environmental issues. Two trends associated with the relationship between human attitudes and behavior and the natural and built environments will be examined. First, the course will focus on what psychology has to offer in terms of explaining how attitudes and behaviors have contributed to the degradation of the natural environment. Second, it will focus on the synergistic relation between person and planetary well-being characteristic of the "green psychology" movement. Prerequisite: PSY 100 or ENV 201 or consent of instructor. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        304          Cr. 3

Abnormal Psychology

The study of the clinical descriptions, and the bio-psychosocial causes and associated treatments of psychological disorders. Special emphasis on mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and assessment and diagnosis. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or 212 and second semester sophomore standing (minimum 45 credits). Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        305          Cr. 3

Human Sexuality

A study of the psychology of sexual attitudes and behaviors, including typical and atypical variations. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and second semester sophomore standing (minimum of 45 credits). Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        307          Cr. 3

Intimate Relationships

This course explores the development and life cycle of cross-sex and same-sex intimate relationships (e.g., dating, romantic, and martial partnerships). The course will focus on topics such as: human need for relationships, interpersonal attraction, love, attachment, communication, relationship development and maintenance, sexuality, jealousy, conflict and aggression. Conditions influencing relationships such as illness, aging, poverty, trauma, and intimate partner violence will be examined. The course will also highlight factors associated with relationship success and/or dissolution. Students will engage with the theory, research, and practical application of the course material. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or PSY 212 and junior standing. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        308          Cr. 1-2

Research Apprenticeship 

This course offers research experience under the supervision of a faculty member. The student will assist a faculty member in any phase of the research process including literature searches, formulation of instruments, pilot studies, data collection, data coding, and computer analysis. Prerequisites: PSY 100, 331, departmental approval (minimum 60 credits). Repeatable for credit — maximum six. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        309          Cr. 1

Volunteer Experience in Psychology

This course provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience through interaction with a variety of age groups. This supervised fieldwork requires 30 hours on site per semester. Not open to seniors. Prerequisites: Completion of Psychology Milestone # 1; PSY 100 and 210. Repeatable for credit — maximum two. Pass/Fail grading. Not open to seniors. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        317         Cr. 3

Psychology of Individual Differences

Nature, extent, development, and source of psychological differences among individuals and groups. Consideration of intelligence, aptitudes, interest, and achievement as related to hereditary and environmental factors. Prerequisite: PSY 100. Offered occasionally.

 

+

PSY        318         Cr. 3

Psychology of Women

Theories and research concerning the biological, psychological, and social aspects of female functioning will be evaluated. The course will analyze psychological literature that addresses itself to the experience, development, and behavior of women from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and sophomore standing. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        320         Cr. 3

Human Motivation

This course examines contemporary and historical psychological conceptions, principles, and theories of human motivation. Concern is given  to cognitive, emotional, and social factors that influence the intensity and choices of goal-directed behavior. Research and applications to education, industry, and everyday situations are included. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        321         Cr. 3

Research Methods for Psychology Minors

Introduction to the research methods associated with psychological research for psychology minors. Consideration given to formulation of problems, techniques for gathering data, and the presentation and interpretation of research. Focus on an ability to critically evaluate social science research. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and second semester sophomore standing (minimum of 45 credits). Not open to psychology majors. Not required of students who major in CST or SOC or Business. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        330          Cr. 3

Psychopharmacology

A study of the major drug groups, their influence on neural processes, and correlated changes in motivation, perception, learning, and psycho-motor performance. Emphasizes drugs with clinical applications. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or 212 and PSY 331 or BIO 312. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        331          Cr. 4

Experimental Psychology: Lecture and Laboratory

This course provides an introduction to experimental and other research methods as used in psychology. The emphasis is on the scientific method, techniques of data collection, and the principles and theories employed in the study of behavior and mental processes. The laboratory portion develops skills in observation, formulating research ideas and hypotheses, designing and conducting research, data analysis, and

scientific report writing. Prerequisites: PSY 100; MTH 145; completion of Psychology Milestone #1 & #2, and at least three other credits in psychology. Open to Psychology majors only. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY/PHL 333        Cr. 3

Philosophy of Mind

A study of the nature of the mind from both philosophical and psychological perspectives. The course will focus on important attempts to solve the mind-body problems (how mind and body are related) and also will address the related problems of consciousness, intentionally, free will, and personal identity. Prerequisite: PSY 100 or PHL 100 or 200. (Cross-listed with PHL 333; may only earn credit in PSY or PHL.) Offered alternate years.

 

PSY        334          Cr. 3

Health Psychology

This course will examine the role of psychological factors in health, wellness, and illness. The focus will be on the interdependence of physiological and psychological factors in the experiencing and treatment of both acute and chronic illnesses. Medical disorders will also be considered from the perspectives of health research methodology, illness prevention, and traditional and non-traditional treatments. There will be a strong emphasis on the scientific basis for mind/body health and evidence-based mind/body interventions (e.g., physical, psychological, spiritual, social, emotional, and intellectual). Ethical considerations, multicultural contexts, and public policy issues in treatment and research will be considered. Prerequisites: PSY 100; 331 or 321 or BIO 312 or ESS 205. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        335          Cr. 3

Learning and Memory

A study of the fundamental concepts and principles of human and animal learning and contemporary topics in human memory. Specific topics include classical and operant (instrumental) conditioning, concept and skill learning, memory storage, and retrieval, forgetting, and the use of information. Prerequisites: PSY 100; 331 or 321. Offered Spring.

 

PSY        341          Cr. 3

Social Psychology

This course addresses the effects of the social context on human behavior. Topics may include attitudes; stereotyping and discrimination; helping; aggression and prosocial behavior; attraction, friendship, and love. Also examines applications of social psychological principles in settings such as health care and law enforcement. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and completion of Milestone I or SOC 110. May only earn credit in SOC 330 or PSY 341. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        343          Cr. 3

Group Dynamics

This course focuses on the structure and function of groups. Topics covered may include communication, process losses, leadership, problem-solving, improving the effectiveness of groups and intergroup relations. Prerequisite: PSY 100 or SOC 110. Not open for credit to students who have completed or are enrolled in CST 365 and/or SOC 334. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        347          Cr. 3

Empathic Listening Skills

This course is designed to clearly define empathic listening skills within a multicultural context. Students will learn to differentiate listening from psychotherapy and will practice listening skills. Topics include values identification, basic listening skills, in-depth exploration skills, and action planning without counseling. Ideal for those who will plan to work in a human services setting. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and second semester sophomore standing (minimum of 45 credits). Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        355          Cr. 3

Infancy and Early Childhood

This course will provide students with an in-depth examination of human development during infancy and early childhood (conception through approximately age five) from a multidimensional perspective. Normative development in the following areas will be examined: prenatal, physical, perceptual, cognitive, language, social and emotional. Legal and public policy implications will be discussed. Research methodology and theoretical perspectives will be integrated throughout each topic area. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210 or 212. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        356          Cr. 3

The School-Aged Child

This course focuses on basic principles, theories, and research in human development during middle childhood (ages 5-12 approximately). Topics include physical, cognitive, language, social/emotional and personality development. Both the biological/genetic (nature) and the environmental (nurture) influences on development will be examined within each developmental area. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210 or 212. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        357          Cr. 3

Adolescence

Focuses on the developmental tasks of adolescence and the influence of family, peers, school and society. Topics include historical perspectives, cognitive and moral development, self-concept, sexuality, vocational choice, and problems of adolescence. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210 or 212. Offered Fall, Spring.

           

PSY        358          Cr. 3

Adulthood

An overview of the “journey of adulthood” including both continuity and change. It introduces students to major historical and theoretical perspectives on adult development as well as primary methodological techniques for studying adult development. It examines milestones and transitions in traditional developmental domains (physical, cognitive and social and emotional) and explores individual responses and adjustments to these experiences. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210 or 212. Offered alternate years.

 

PSY        359          Cr. 1

Aging and the Elderly

The study of aging and older persons from a psychological perspective. It highlights physical, cognitive, emotional and social characteristics of old people and developmental changes associated with aging processes. Special attention is focused on the differences between typical aging and disease-related conditions associated with aging. Attention also is focused on diversity in the experience of aging and on practical applications. Prerequisite: PSY 358 or concurrent enrollment. Offered occasionally.

  

PSY        360          Cr. 3

Cross Cultural  Human Development

This course represents a blend of cross-cultural concepts and human development (across the lifespan) and will seek to explore the influence of culture on various aspects of human development. More specific topics include the role of culture on: socialization, physical growth, cognition, self and personality, sex and gender, social behavior, family relations, and health. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210 or 212. Offered Fall,  Spring.

 

PSY        370          Cr. 3

Educational Psychology

This course examines the application of psychological principles to school learning. Topics covered include theories of learning, individual differences, motivation, classroom management, measurement and evaluation, and effective teaching. The content will be discussed in relation to current issues and problems. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210 or PSY 212 or ESS 207 and ESS 225; and second semester sophomore standing (minimum of 45 credits). Offered Fall, Spring. 

 

PSY        376          Cr. 3

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Psychological principles, concepts and methods applicable to organizational and industrial situations and practices. Topics include personnel selection, placement and evaluation, training, motivation, leadership, and social factors in organizations. Prerequisites: six credits in psychology and junior standing. Offered Spring.

 

PSY        391          Cr. 1-3

Contemporary Topics in Psychology: Intermediate

Intermediate consideration of contemporary topics related to psychological theories and research methods. Topics of specific interest to undergraduate students will be offered periodically. Offerings will be determined by staff/student interest and availability of teaching resources. Credit, prerequisite and format will vary according to the specific topics selected and the target student group. Prerequisites: will vary according to the specific topic selected; departmental approval is necessary to apply more than six credits toward the psychology major. Repeatable for credit — maximum six. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        395          Cr. 1-3

Workshop in Applications of Psychology

Instructional units designed to develop specialized skills, competencies and knowledge representing applications of methods and techniques of psychology in education and other professional areas. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Repeatable for credit — maximum three. Departmental option for Pass/Fail grading. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        401          Cr. 3

Behavior Modification

This course will examine the theory and techniques of systematic behavior management and behavior control. Applied social learning theory, reinforcement, shaping, modeling, cognitive and rational techniques, extinction, aversive procedures, and token economies will be covered. Students will plan and execute a personal behavior self modification program, and plan and evaluate an intervention for the campus community. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or 212 and junior standing. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        402/502                   Cr. 3

Personality Theories, Models and Measures

Exploration and evaluation of major theories of personality. Particular attention is paid to psychoanalytic, neopsychoanalytic, behavioral, trait and humanistic theories of personality. This course will also address current research in the field of personality psychology and issues in personality measurement. Prerequisites: PSY 100 or 212 and junior standing. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        403/503                   Cr. 3

Advanced Psychopathology

This course focuses on selected topics in the area of clinical and abnormal psychology and is designed to provide in-depth knowledge of advanced current issues in the field. It helps prepare students for the field of human services by offering additional information beyond that conveyed in the abnormal psychology course on the diagnosis and treatment of a number of psychological disorders. Prerequisites: PSY 304. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        404                          Cr. 3

Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy

A comprehensive conceptual review of theories of psychotherapy and counseling with a focus on the processes of change. The theories examined include the Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, Gestalt, Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Marriage and Family Therapy, and group therapy. Divergence and convergence among the theories will be examined. This course will focus on the presentation of a trans-theoretical analysis of these major theoretical views and methods used in psychotherapy. The course will emphasize the pragmatic and integrated qualities of major theories of psychotherapy and counseling. Prerequisites: PSY 304 and must be a Psychology major who has completed Psychology Milestones # 1 & # 2 or have a declared minor in Psychology, or Criminal Justice, or be enrolled in the Child Youth Care emphasis, or by consent of instructor. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        405          Cr. 1-2

Teaching Apprenticeship in Psychology

This course provides preparation and experience in a variety of instructional practices, strategies and techniques. Students study theory and research on teaching and practice teaching skills under the guidance of faculty members. Prerequisites: junior standing and minimum 3.25 GPA. Repeatable for credit — maximum six. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        407          Cr. 3

Children’s Cognition

This course will examine contemporary theories and current research on children's cognition, focusing on the years from birth to early adolescence. Topics considered will include biological bases of cognitive development. Piagetian and neo-Piagetian theory, socio-cultural theories of cognition, information-processing approaches to children's memory and problem solving, the development of social cognition, and schooling and cognition. Prerequisites: PSY 210 or 212. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY/ECO/GEO/HIS/POL/SOC 408    Cr. 4

Teaching and Learning History and Social Studies in the Secondary School

This course will be integrated with a field experience. In the context of a real classroom, teacher candidates will learn how to plan for and assess student learning in history and social sciences. With a focus on content knowledge, teacher candidates will plan a variety of meaningful learning experiences, assess student learning, and monitor and modify instruction to best support the individual learners in the classroom. The teacher candidate will design, enact, and assess activities that advance student understanding to more complex levels. Teacher candidates will gain experience in monitoring the obstacles and barriers that some students or groups of students face in school and learn how to design learning experiences to support all learners. Prerequisite: EDS 351. (Cross-listed with ECO, GEO, HIS, POL, SOC; may only earn credit in ECO, GEO, HIS, POL, PSY, or SOC.) Offered Fall, Spring.  

 

PSY        410/510                 Cr. 3

Advanced Developmental Psychology

An in-depth study of important topics in developmental psychology. Relevant theories and recent research in social development, cognitive development, moral development, language development, and emotional development will be evaluated. Prerequisites: PSY 210 or 212; 331, or 321, and MTH 145. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        417                          Cr. 3

Child and Adolescent Psychopathology

An examination of psychological disorders which first appear during infancy, childhood and adolescence. This course covers the etiology, diagnosis, classification, treatment, and prevention of psychological disorders from different theoretical orientations. Special emphasis is placed on applying basic concepts and empirical data to various professional settings and to social policy issues. Prerequisites: PSY 210 or 212 and 304. Offered Spring.

 

PSY        420/520                   Cr. 3

Advanced Research Methods

An advanced course in the quantitative and logical aspects of statistical analysis, interpretation and design of behavioral science research and experimentation. Major emphasis is on the conceptual rather than the computational aspects of quantitative methods. Recommended for those planning graduate work in psychology or related fields. Prerequisites: PSY 100, 210, 331, or 321; MTH 145. Offered Spring.

 

PSY        426/526                   Cr. 3

Psychology of Addictive Behaviors

Study of the personality characteristics of individuals experiencing substance abuse, dependency, and compulsive behaviors such as eating disorders and gambling. The focus will be on abuse as a maladaptive response to the demands of life. Special topics will include consumptive patterns, level of dependence, neurological status, assessment, and contemporary treatment techniques. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 304. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        430          Cr. 3

Physiological Psychology

A study of the biological basis of behavior. Focus is on explaining behavior via the functioning of the brain and the rest of the nervous system. Language and the nature of consciousness, as well as vision, hearing, movement and sexual behavior will be discussed. Prerequisites: PSY 100;   PSY 331 or 321 or BIO 312; MTH 145. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        431          Cr. 3

The Study of Consciousness

A comprehensive examination of conscious and non-conscious states of awareness. The course will explore contemporary cognitive theories on the nature of consciousness and its role and functioning in human behavior. The course also will cover states of consciousness (i.e., sleep and dreaming) as well as alterations in consciousness through hypnosis and psychedelic drugs. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and either PSY 331, 321 or PHL 333, or BIO 312. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        434/534   Cr. 3

Introduction to Clinical Neuropsychology

This course examines the relationship between brain functioning and cognition, behavior, and emotion. The course covers neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropsychological assessment. The history, rationale, goals, and procedures of neuropsychological assessment will be explored alongside the role that neuropsychologists play in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with disorders. Specific disorders likely to be covered include traumatic brain injury, dementia, psychiatric disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, cerebrovascular disorders, seizure disorders, and learning disabilities. Prerequisites: PSY 100; PSY 331 or 321 or BIO 312; MTH 145. Offered Spring.

 

PSY        435/535   Cr. 3

Cognitive Processes

This course examines theories, models, and related experimental research concerning human mental processes. Topics include acquisition of information, memory, decision-making, problem solving, and language. Prerequisites: PSY 100; 331 or 321; MTH 145. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        436/536   Cr. 3

Psychology of Language

An introductory course in psycholinguistics concerned with the comprehension, production and acquisition of language. Other topics include: language and thought, reading, writing, bilingualism, figurative language, metalinguistic skills, and the neuropsychology of language. Prerequisites: PSY 100; 331 or 321. Offered alternate years.

 

PSY        439          Cr. 3

Sensation & Perception

Survey of the physiology and psychology of the human senses (e.g., vision, audition, smell, taste, and the skin senses) and the role they play in the attainment of knowledge and the regulation of behavior. In addition, the course will examine the various perceptual processes through which we interpret and restructure sensory information as we respond to changes in the environment. Prerequisite: PSY 100; 331 or 321 or BIO 312. Offered Fall.

 

PSY        441/541   Cr. 3

Advanced Social Psychology

The course will provide coverage of methodology and statistics most frequently encountered in social psychology and cover topics both of classic and current interest such as stereotypes and prejudice, medical social psychology, environmental psychology, social interdependence, leadership, and power. Prerequisites: Psychology Milestones #1 & #2; a grade of “B” or better in PSY 341 or SOC 330. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        444          Cr. 3

Work and Family: Psychological Issues

A course designed to critically evaluate the empirical research on men’s and women’s work and family roles. Topics include; the meaning and experience of work, parenting decisions, the balance of work and family, the relationship of work/family decisions to well-being, and family issue policies. Students are prompted to clarify and develop their career plans as part of the class requirements. Prerequisites: 12 credits in psychology; junior standing required (senior standing recommended.) May only earn credit in PSY 444 or SOC 338 or WGS 338. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        450          Cr. 1-3

Fieldwork Experience in Psychology: Undergraduate Internship

An academically relevant field experience for majors in psychology. The field experience will be arranged through Career Services and supervised by psychology instructional staff. Prerequisites: PSY 100 and 210, cumulative GPA of 2.30, junior standing; completion of Psychology Milestones 1 & 2; consent of instructor. No more than three credits may be applied to a major in psychology. Repeatable for credit — maximum three. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        451/551   Cr. 3

Psychological Measurement

Principles and procedures for the psychological measurement of human differences. This course examines the development, quantitative interpretation, uses, distinctive and desired characteristics of tests of intelligence, aptitudes, achievement, occupational interests and personality. Prerequisites: PSY 100; 331 or 321. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        461          Cr. 3

History and Systems of Psychology

A study of the philosophical and empirical foundations of modern psychology. Outstanding contributions by individual scholars and the development of major systems of thought within the field. Recommended for students considering graduate school in psychology. Prerequisites: PSY 100; 331 or 321; MTH 145; junior standing. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        481          Cr. 1-3

Individual Projects in Psychology

Directed readings, research, or other individualized projects in psychology under the supervision of an instructor. Open to students with 12 credits in psychology who are in good standing. Registration requires consent of supervising instructor and department chair. Repeatable for credit — maximum six. Offered occasionally.

 

PSY        482          Cr. 1-3

Honors Projects in Psychology

This course allows psychology honors students to complete their independent research projects. Honors students must enroll for a total of three credits (over 1 or 2 semesters). Prerequisites: PSY 420 and 489. Repeatable for credit — maximum three. Offered Fall, Spring.

 

PSY        485          Cr. 1

Appraising Psychology Seminar

This seminar is designed to actively involve students in the assessment of their psychology education. Students will complete a variety of measures as well as provide in-depth feedback about the psychology major. Students are expected to reflect on themes, debates, and issues in the field of psychology. Open to senior psychology majors/minors only. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Spring, odd-numbered years.

 

PSY        489          Cr. 3

Honors Seminar

Students develop introductions and methods for independent research projects. Designing sound proposals and grappling with research design issues are the main foci of the course. Projects are completed under the supervision of a faculty adviser (PSY 481). Prerequisites: acceptance into the Psychology Honors Program; junior standing; PSY 100; 331, 420 (may be taken concurrently); MTH 145. Offered Spring.

PSY        491          Cr. 1-3

Contemporary Topics in Psychology: Advanced

This course provides in-depth consideration of significant new areas of development in the field of psychology. Topics of interest to traditional and nontraditional students will be offered on an irregular basis. Credit, prerequisite and format will vary according to the specific topic selected and the target student group. Prerequisites: will vary according to the specific topic selected. Repeatable for credit — maximum six. Offered occasionally.