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Course Descriptions

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PSYC 1000 Learning Strategies (1-3)

Provides students with a structure for discovering and developing the learning strategies and the time management techniques necessary for becoming self-directed learners. The course content is focused on developing new ways of analyzing, integrating, and applying learning strategies to various learning situations, and developing modes of communication and critical thinking that encourage lifelong learning. This course is not applicable to a major or minor in psychology.

PSYC 1025 Strategies for Academic Achievement (1)

This course will assist students in improving behaviors and strategies necessary for restoring their status to good academic standing, enhancing their ability to successfully develop critical decision-making skills and developing strategies for their academic and career goals. Students will gain experience by improving their communication skills to develop solutions to academic and non-academic barriers as well as perceived campus barriers. This course will require one hour of support per week either on-ground or online through听NetTutor or the Online Writing Center. Recommended for students on Academic Probation and open to all interested students. This course is not applicable to a major or minor in psychology. Prerequisite: At least one semester at Webster and/or recently placed on Academic Probation.

PSYC 1050 Psychology Overview (1)

Provides students a brief overview of the field of psychology. This self-paced course is designed for students taking the MCAT for admittance into the health science field. This course is not applicable to a major or minor in psychology.听

PSYC 1100 Introduction to Psychology (3)

This course provides an overview of the breadth and diversity of contemporary psychological science, serving as a foundational entry point for students progressing to more advanced and specialized courses. Key topics include the research processes and methodologies in psychological science, the biological bases and social contexts of behavior, lifespan development, learning and memory, cognitive science, psychological health and disorders, and psychological research literacy. GCP Coding: (SSHB) (CRI).

PSYC 1500 Psychology of Adjustment (3)

Designed to facilitate the application of psychological principles to personal experience. Adjustment is viewed as an active two-way process between the individual and his or her environment. Class members study the physiological and psychological determinants of behavior, with emphasis on relevant research. Organized around the themes of behavior, interpersonal relationships, and processes of psychological growth. GCP Coding: (SSHB) (ETH).

PSYC 1800 Careers in Psychology (3)

Provides students with career information for the field of psychology. Students are given guidance on how to search for and apply to graduate programs and internships, create personal statements, develop a r茅sum茅, and find jobs within the field of psychology. Designed to be taken in a student's freshman or sophomore year.听Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2000 Issues in Contemporary Psychology (1-4)

Introductory-level course designed to provide a brief, intensive overview of specific areas of contemporary psychology. Uses a number of approaches to provide students with a chance to explore how psychological principles are applied to a specific topic or area of interest. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs.

PSYC 2125 Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity (3)

The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the psychological and social issues relevant to sexual orientation and gender diversity. Students will be encouraged to think critically about topics such as developmental issues, identity, families, relationships, intersections with race and ethnicity, mental health, physical health, minority stress, work and career concerns, and attitudes toward minority communities. Throughout the course, cultural and international issues will be discussed, and an emphasis will be placed on an empirical approach to the science and practice of psychology. Cross-listed with WGST 2125.

PSYC 2150 Psychology of Sleep (3)

Sleep inhabits one third of our life. Sleep is not a passive behavior. On the contrary, it is quite active. This course focuses on sleep as a part of the daily sleep/wake cycle. This course examines the history of sleep and sleep research, developmental aspects of sleep, physiological bases of sleep, the functions of sleep, the effects of various drugs on sleep, sleep disorders, and dreaming. GCP Coding: (PNW) (CRI).

PSYC 2200 Child Psychology (3)

Examines physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development of the child from conception to adolescence. The complex interaction between heredity and environment is considered. Emphasizes language development, achievement, personality, and gender behavior. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2250 Adolescent Psychology (3)

Examines the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social changes of adolescence. Lectures and class discussions consider the characteristics and problems of contemporary adolescents and implications for emerging adulthood. Special issues such as addiction, adolescent-parent relationships, and achievement are considered. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2300 Lifespan Development (3)

Studies the development of the individual from conception through adulthood. Examines intellectual, emotional, and social aspects of behavior in terms of the complex interaction of heredity and environment. Content includes the application of prominent theories of human development to the individual鈥檚 development over the life span. Reviews current research in critical areas of human behavior (e.g. attachment, aggression) and uses it to enhance the student鈥檚 understanding of the human developmental process.

PSYC 2400 Educational Psychology (3)

Focuses on the psychological nature of the child within an educational framework. Considers learning, cognition, motivation, personality, and emotions in an effort to see the child as a whole person functioning in the school environment. Uses a cross-cultural approach to examine the goals and values of American education. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2450 Psychology of Interpersonal Communications (3)

Examines the behavioral and social sciences theories of communication with an emphasis on interpersonal relationships. The course focuses on developing awareness of communication techniques and more accurate perception of self and others. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2475 Topics in Sex and Gender (3)

Special topics in the study of sex and gender will be offered in this course. Topics include women, femininities, men, masculinities, sexualities (heterosexualities, gay, lesbian or bisexualities), etc. May be repeated for credit if content differs.

PSYC 2600 Social Influence and Persuasion (3)

Examines the factors that facilitate conformity, techniques to ensure compliance, and the conditions that produce obedience to authority. Strategies utilized by salesmen, politicians, lawyers, special interest groups, and the media will also be examined. The course also explores听the nature of propaganda, use of subliminal messages in advertising, and role of social influence and persuasion in cults. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2625 Methods of Conflict Resolution (3)

This course introduces communication and negotiation techniques to resolve conflicts in a mutually acceptable manner. Emphasis will be placed on mediation and facilitation as models of third-party intervention in community, commercial, organizational, legal, and political conflicts. Course will examine different areas of professional practice and determine what guidance and insight can be found in the growing body of research and theory on assisted negotiation and dispute research. Students will learn and reflect effective communicating, problem solving, and listening skills. There will be ongoing opportunities for students to test their understanding and develop skills through simulations. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2650 Nonverbal Behavior (3)

Examines the role of 鈥渦nspoken dialogue鈥� in human interaction and the influence nonverbal behavior has on interpersonal communication. The course focuses on how nonverbal concepts like physical appearance, gestures, movement, and facial expressions underscore the 鈥渟poken dialogue.鈥�

PSYC 2700 Psychology and Women (3)

Focuses on the psychological impact of being female and problems surrounding expectations through infancy, young adulthood, middle age, old age, and death. Explores scientific findings and sexist myths about male and female differences, special dilemmas such as fear of achievement, aggression, and leadership, as well as traditional and nonsexist child rearing and other topics.

PSYC 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics (3)

Designed to aid the student in learning how to 鈥渕ake sense鈥� of a body of numbers; how to summarize and extract information from numbers; how to detect, measure, and use relationships between variables; and how to use statistical aids to the decision-making process. Course covers descriptive statistics, correlation and regression, and inferential statistics such as the t-test and analysis of variance. GCP Coding: (QL).

PSYC 2825 Introduction to Research Methods (3)

Research is at the heart of the behavioral and social sciences. This course will cover the basics of quantitative and qualitative research design. In addition, students will be provided with the means to critically analyze and assess the ethics of research findings. Lastly, students will be given the opportunity to create a research proposal. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2850 Psychology of Peace and Conflict (3)

Examines the key concepts, themes, theories, and practices involved in psychological study of peace and conflict. Explores these issues across a wide range of interpersonal, community, national, and international contexts. Includes multiple levels of analysis from micro to macro, and multidisciplinary perspectives. GCP Coding: (GLBL) (INTC).

PSYC 2950 Psychology of Adulthood and Aging (3)

Approaches adulthood from an interdisciplinary perspective, stressing the interaction of psychological, sociocultural, and biological aspects of human development. Examines theoretical models of development, such as stage and process theories of change. Compares research methods of observing adult behavior and reviews recent studies of adult development. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 2975 Sophomore Assessment (0)

Provides a midway assessment experience for psychology majors by providing a means for students to demonstrate their knowledge of the field and apply psychological knowledge in preparation for a career. Students will take a series of measures (quizzes, exercises, papers) to assess their standing in the discipline. Course must be completed prior to PSYC 4950. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, PSYC 1800 and PSYC 2825; or permission of the instructor.听

PSYC 3000 Topics in Psychology (3)

Analyzes in-depth issues and topics in the field of psychology. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3025 Psychology and Ethics (3)

Psychology and Ethics is designed to introduce students to ethical sensitivity, reasoning, thinking, decision-making, motivation, and implementation within the discipline of psychology and related fields. The class will examine: historically why ethics are a foundational and necessary aspect of psychology and related professions; ethical principles, guidelines, and professional ethics code as they relate to various professional endeavors such as research, therapy, consultation, and teaching; how to engage in ethical decision-making processes; and how to apply ethical principles and guidelines to complex professional and global dilemmas. The purpose of this course is not to provide answers but assist students in learning how to come to ethical decisions and behaviors within multicultural contexts as well as identifying factors impacting ethical motivation, competence, and the implementation of decisions. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3075 Stress Management (3)

Introduces students to the major sources of stress in contemporary society and presents approaches to gain control over their personal responses to stress. Specific strategies for reducing stressors and managing stressful life events are covered. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3125 Psychological Disorders (3)

This course introduces students to psychological disorders, examining the physiological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that influence their development. Students will evaluate scientific research to understand the current state of evidence for conceptualizing and treating psychological disorders, and will discuss abnormal psychology, disorders, and treatment from multicultural and international perspectives. The course surveys major diagnostic categories, focusing on symptomatology, demographics, etiology, and treatment approaches. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3150 Positive Psychology (3)

Focuses on human strengths and well-being. Positive psychology is complementary to traditional psychology approaches that attempt to explain and treat dysfunction and illness. Research has shown that the absence of illness does not equal wellness. Positive psychology is the field of psychology that examines factors that create a sense of well-being and optimal functioning. Also included in this field is the study of happiness, resiliency, human virtues, and transcendent meaning in life. Positive psychology courses typically include a strong experiential component. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3175 Community Psychology (3)

Community psychology views knowledge and understanding of the social context in which individuals and families live as necessary to understanding those individuals. From this framework, it is not possible to effectively intervene with an individual who is experiencing problems without also understanding and intervening in aspects of the community that are involved in the identified problem. Community psychology has four main components: prevention and competence promotion, community building with citizen participation and empowerment, human diversity, and strong research to evaluate programs. Among key values in the field of community psychology are individual wellness, the importance of a sense of community, and social justice. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3225 Holocaust (3)

Examines the Holocaust and the groups of individuals involved in this genocide (e.g. perpetrators, victims, bystanders, resistance fighters) from a psychological/sociological perspective. Issues explored include: the question of what enabled individuals collectively and individually to perpetrate the Holocaust, the nature of extreme prejudice, the psychology of propaganda, the impact of extreme victimization on the victim (during the Holocaust, upon liberation, and in later years), and the question of what enabled some individuals/groups/countries to actively become involved in resistance while others remained passive bystanders and others sympathizers/collaborators. The roles that psychology, psychologists, and psychiatrists played during the Holocaust are also examined.

PSYC 3275 Genocide (3)

Examines the psychological, cultural, and societal roots of human cruelty, mass violence, and genocide. We examine the questions of what enables individuals collectively and individually to perpetrate mass violence and genocide as well as examine the impact of apathetic bystanders on human violence. Genocides studied include the Armenian genocide, the Holocaust, the auto-genocide in Cambodia, the Rwandan genocide, the genocides in the former Yugoslavia, and others.

PSYC 3300 Psychology of Religion (3)

This course explores the principles of basic learning theory, including classical and operant conditioning, with an emphasis on scientific thinking and its application to clinical, educational, family, and social contexts. Students will examine human learning capacities in comparison to those of various animal species, evaluating the basic philosophical and conceptual approaches underlying learning. The course emphasizes the role of habituation, sensitization, and other forms of stimulus learning, and discusses how classical and instrumental conditioning contribute to behavior manipulation and environmental adaptation. Students will also articulate the processes involved in knowledge acquisition, storage, and retrieval, including the formation and storage of memories, while considering nature- and nurture-based factors that shape complex mental representations. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3325 Applied Learning Theory (3)

Focuses on basic learning theory (e.g. classical conditioning, operant conditioning) within the context of applied clinical, educational, family, and social settings. Compares human abilities with the learning capacities of various animal species. Focuses on techniques to change behavior patterns based on human and non-human investigations in the psychology of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3350 Cognitive Psychology (3)

This course delves into the fundamental phenomena and foundational literature in cognition, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and research methods. Students will explore key topics such as pattern recognition, perception, information processing, attention, and memory processes, including encoding, storage, and retrieval. The course also covers discrimination, concept learning, creativity, decision-making, and the role of grammar, meaning, and sound in language. A comparative analysis of human cognitive abilities with those of various animal species is included. By the end of this course, students will be able to explain the reasoning behind different methods used in cognitive psychology, discuss the components of attention and memory organization, and identify basic heuristics and models of reasoning and decision-making. Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3450 Psychology and Law (3)

This interdisciplinary examination of psychology and the law focuses on the psychological underpinnings of legislation, common law, and the administration of justice. Discussion of the relationship between law and human behavior is integrated throughout. Attention is also given to the various ways in which the law informs and regulates the practice of psychology professions. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3475 International Psychology (3)

Assumptions, theories, methods, and interventions of traditional western psychology are critically examined for relevance to people outside the Western world. Recommendations for training global psychologists are reviewed. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3525 Memory (3)

This course introduces the fundamental issues and theories surrounding human memory, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and research. Students will explore how memory functions, succeeds, and fails, examining the neuroscience of memory alongside various types of memory, including sensory, short-term, working, long-term, episodic, semantic, and autobiographical. The course also addresses the relationships between memory and reality, memory and development, and memory and amnesia. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and interactive demonstrations, students will engage with key phenomena and foundational literature in learning and memory, considering both animal and human research. Major topics include habituation, the physiological bases of learning and memory, classical and instrumental conditioning, information processing, and the differences between short-term and long-term retention. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify the processes involved in knowledge acquisition, storage, and retrieval; evaluate conceptual approaches to memory; and explain the factors influencing the formation, storage, and loss of memories. 听Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3550 History, Philosophy, and Systems of Psychology (3)

Examines the contributions of philosophy, physics, physiology, and other disciplines and intellectual traditions to the development of the subject matter, problems, and methodology of contemporary psychology. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, PSYC 2825, and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3575 Industrial/Organizational Psychology (3)

Examines the basic theoretical foundations of individual and organizational behavior, exploring the diversity of organizational structures and how various structures affect the individual. The course focuses on the individual within the organizational setting, group and interpersonal relations, and the psychology of work. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3600 Social Psychology (3)

This course explores how individuals influence and are influenced by their social environments, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and empirical research. Students will examine the social nature of individuals, including attitudes, attitude change, and prejudice, as well as dyadic relationships and small group dynamics, such as conformity, decision-making, and leadership. The course will delve into seminal research studies in social psychology, including Milgram's, Asch's, and Festinger's studies, detailing their methodologies, results, and impact. Students will describe key concepts related to the self, attribution, social cognition, cognitive dissonance, and decision-making. The course will also cover social influence and persuasion, including compliance, obedience, social norms, and group dynamics, as well as social interactions such as altruism, aggression, stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Additionally, students will explore the applications of social psychology into areas such as health, law, business, and environmental issues. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply theories and research to personal and societal issues. Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3610 Independent Reading Course (1-5)

Designed for individual student exploration of a given body of knowledge or a specific area of interest. Selected topics agreed upon between student and a member of the departmental faculty. Topic of the course, detailed learning outcomes, and means of evaluation to be negotiated between student and faculty member. Intended for majors. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3625 Motivation and Emotion (3)

Explores the processes and principles essential for understanding motivation and emotion. The course will examine the psychology of emotion and motivation with an overview of research and theory from diverse perspectives (e.g., humanistic, behavioral, social, cognitive, biological, environmental). Includes a critical review of research and application of these theories to human behavior.听Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3650 Prejudice and Discrimination (3)

Examines the essential features, principles, facts, and theories that surround stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Theoretical approaches considered will include those from psychology, sociology, and international human rights. Consequently, the course will include discussion of intergroup relations as they pertain to different racial and ethnic groups throughout the world. In addition, the course examines discrimination based on appearance, gender, age, ability, and sexual orientation. Cross-listed with HRTS 3210.

PSYC 3675 Professional Seminar in Psychology (3)

This professional seminar engages students in a critical exploration of contemporary issues and trends in professional psychology. Students will be immersed in the current job market, refining competitive application materials, and developing strategies to prepare them for a career in psychology and related fields. By the end of the course, students will have developed a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in professional psychology and the skills necessary for effective work in a dynamic field. Designed to be taken in a student鈥檚 junior or senior year.
Prerequisites: PSYC 1800; junior or senior standing; or permission of the instructor.听

PSYC 3700 Altruism and Aggression (3)

Examines antecedents of aggressive behavior -- why people aggress and what steps can be taken to prevent or control this destructive behavior. Topics to be covered may include child abuse, racially-based violence, terrorism, antisocial personalities (i.e., psychopath), sexual aggression, spousal abuse, drugs and aggression, and the media's impact on violence. Also explores the conditions that lead to helping behavior. The role of empathy, gender, race, and attractiveness in bystander intervention will be examined. The concept of true altruism (i.e. helping without regard to potential rewards) will also be debated. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3725 Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making (3)

This course provides a comprehensive survey of current theories of human judgment and decision-making, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and empirical research. Students will explore how individuals make personality judgments about themselves and others, attribute causation to human behavior, and estimate uncertain outcomes. The course examines judgment and decision-making processes under various social conditions, focusing on how cognitive processes contribute to both accurate and inaccurate judgments. Students will evaluate theoretical concepts in relation to real-world societal applications and demonstrate enhanced skills in critically analyzing psychological research. Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3775 Personality Theory (3)

Examines the structure, dynamics, and development of personality and explores the assumptions about human nature that underlie the various theories about personality. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3825 Psychological Research Design and Analysis (3)

This course provides students the opportunity to engage deeply with a chosen body of knowledge or a specific area of interest within psychology. Through a combination of independent study, guided research, and collaborative discussions, students will develop advanced skills in critical analysis, literature review, and research proposal development, when applicable. Students will have the option to: 1) propose and develop a research project aligned with their interests and goals or 2) craft a thorough, critical literature review on a topic of their choice. For students creating a research proposal, this process will encompass conceptualization to implementation through: refinement of research questions, design methodologies, and data collection/analysis strategies. For students conducting a thorough, critical literature review, this process will include a comprehensive evaluation of existing research, identification of gaps in the literature, and the synthesis of findings to generate new insights or theoretical perspectives. Students will be expected to demonstrate mastery of the subject matter, articulate their findings clearly, and present their work in both written and oral formats. This course is designed to foster independent thinking, scholarly inquiry, and professional-level communication skills in psychology. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, PSYC 2750, PSYC 2825; or permission of the instructor.听

PSYC 3850 Sensation and Perception (3)

This course examines how the human brain receives, processes, and interprets sensory information from the environment, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and research methodologies. Students will explore the functioning of human sensory systems, including vision, audition, taste, smell, and touch, along with the foundational principles of psychophysics. The course delves into how we perceive the world, covering topics such as color vision, depth and space perception, motion perception, visual illusions, and Gestalt principles of organization. Information-processing approaches to perception, including top-down and bottom-up processes, the role of knowledge and attention, imagery, and stage models of information flow, will also be discussed. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify the mechanisms involved in sensory pathways, distinguish the various levels of processing required for seeing and hearing, explain theories of color perception, and describe the factors influencing touch, taste, and olfaction. Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 3875 Psychology Lab (1-3)

Lab is designed to complement a 3000-level core course, allowing the instructor and student to work collaboratively toward the development of a course-related project. May be repeated for credit if content differs.

PSYC 3900 Introduction to Counseling (3)

Introduces a variety of counseling theories, techniques, and skills. Focuses on the problems and issues facing a professional counselor in a variety of settings (including individual and group counseling, family counseling, counseling handicapped individuals, career counseling, and consulting). Provides students with opportunities to explore new dimensions in counseling and to confront and clarify their own reasons for wanting to do this kind of work.听Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4000 Advanced Studies in Psychology (3)

Designed for in-depth study of a specific area or issue in psychology. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4150 Political Psychology (3)

Surveys many of the important topics from the field of political psychology. Political psychology is focused mainly on the intersection between psychology -- particularly personality and social psychology -- and political behavior. The field of political psychology has been strongly influenced by political and psychological theories as well as important political events and social issues. The course examines many of the important theories that have relevance to political behavior and provides the opportunity to apply these theories to important events and issues.

PSYC 4225 Introduction to Helping Professions (3)

This course is a survey of the helping professions in areas related to psychology. These helping professions include: clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, professional counseling, mental health counseling, addictions counseling, marriage and family counseling, clinical social work and psychiatry. The course will familiarize students with the history of the helping professions, common roles and settings in which clinicians work and current "hot topics" for clinicians. Theoretical orientations, assessment and diagnosis, prevention, intervention, research methods, multiculturalism and ethics common to these professions will be discussed. This course will help students explore their interests in the helping professions. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4300 Health Psychology (3)

This course examines the fundamental issues and current literature in health psychology, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and critical analysis. Students will explore the social and cultural bases of illness, as well as factors that influence wellness, such as stress, pain, and personality. The course also addresses critical issues related to health care providers, including communication, utilization, and ethics. Throughout the course, students will identify, describe, and apply primary theories of health psychology, compare and contrast major perspectives within the field, and assess the credibility of health information presented in the media. Additionally, students will explore the distinctions and applications of common research methods in health psychology and critically analyze factors affecting health and disease. Special attention will be given to understanding how culture, social identity, demographics, and disparities contribute to health behaviors and access to care. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to design a health-behavior self-modification program. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4375 Evolutionary Psychology (3)

Explores the key concepts, issues, and lines of research within the field of evolutionary psychology. The course will examine the relevance of evolutionary thinking to a range of psychological phenomena which may include problems of survival, long term mating strategies, short-term sexual strategies, parenting, kinship, cooperative alliances, aggression and warfare, conflict between the sexes, and prestige, status, social dominance, development, cognition, and language.听Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4400 Human Sexuality (3)

This course examines human sexual behavior within cultural, social, and political contexts, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and ethical considerations in research. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including historical and cross-cultural sexual attitudes, reproductive health and rights, the diversity of sexual experiences, gender differences and roles, sexual orientation, and the intersection of sex with disease, law, and social responsibility. The course also addresses the physiological bases of sexual behavior, including anatomy and sexual differentiation, as well as sexual behaviors across the lifespan --from childhood through old age. By the end of the course, students will understand the ethics and politics of researching human sexuality, discuss contraception, pregnancy, and childbirth behaviors, and learn about various sexual experiences, sexually transmitted infections, and the major theories and research on sexual orientation. Additionally, students will explore the process and ethics of sex therapy and examine sexual behaviors that intersect with the law. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4425 Community Practicum (3)

Students engage in service learning work at a community agency and have an opportunity to experience agency operations firsthand. A variety of field placements are available, depending on the student's background and interests. Students are responsible for securing their own placement before the semester begins and are expected to spend time at their placement every week of the regular semester. Classroom component will include discussion of placement experiences or issues and the skills and ethics of service work. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, permission of the instructor and approval of placement proposal.

PSYC 4550 Drug and Chemical Dependency (3)

This course introduces the history, pharmacology, and physiological effects of various commonly abused substances, with a strong emphasis on scientific thinking and analysis. Students will explore the behavioral and social implications of drug use and abuse, including treatment approaches and methods. Key topics include the basic pharmacological changes associated with drug use, the impact of psychoactive substances on the nervous system, and the regulation of drug use. Students will also examine the physiological, behavioral, and social effects of common drugs such as alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, over-the-counter medications, and oral contraceptives. The course will cover the use and misuse of psychotherapeutic drugs, as well as the history, effects, and treatment methodologies related to stimulants, depressants, tranquilizers, and mood modifiers. Additionally, students will analyze the history, behavioral and physiological effects, and social implications of narcotic drugs, as well as the definitions, classifications, and effects of hallucinogens. Finally, the course will address the determinants of drug usage in the United States and globally. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4610 Advanced Independent Readings Course (1-5)

Designed for individual student exploration of a given body of knowledge or a specific area of interest. Selected topics agreed upon between student and a member of the departmental faculty. Topic of the course, detailed learning outcomes, and means of evaluation to be negotiated between student and faculty member. Intended for majors. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4650 Biopsychology (3)

Examines the physiological concomitants of behavior and acquaints the student with the methods and major findings of the interaction that has recently taken place between biology and psychology. Prerequisite:听PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4700 Psychological Tests and Measurements (3)

This course provides an in-depth survey of psychological testing, focusing on the principles of test construction, evaluation, and application. Emphasis is placed on the scientific methods used to assess the characteristics, administration, and interpretation of psychological and educational tests. Students will explore the theoretical and historical foundations of psychological measurement, including the development and use of objective tests, rating scales, and attitude scales. The course will cover psychometric statistics, such as types of assessment scores, measures of central tendency, indices of variability, standard errors, and correlations. Students will learn to evaluate the validity and reliability of psychological tests, make ethical decisions regarding their use, and critically assess multicultural, gender, and diversity issues in testing. By the end of the course, students will be able to select, administer, score, and interpret various psychological instruments used in educational, clinical, counseling, and organizational settings. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and PSYC 2825; or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4750 Advanced Statistics (3)

Examines data analysis techniques for complex research designs, emphasizing the application of advanced statistical techniques, such as complex analysis of variance and multivariate statistics. Introduces the student to the use of statistical software as a tool for data analysis. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, PSYC 2750, PSYC 2825; or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4825 Psychological Science Thesis (3-6)

This course offers students the opportunity to conduct independent research in psychological science, guiding them through the entire research process from enacting a research proposal developed in PSYC 3825 to presentation and potential publication. Students will use their research project proposal as a starting place to put their research ideas into action. Students will navigate the Institutional Review Board (IRB) process to obtain ethical approval. Students will also engage in rigorous data collection and analysis, using appropriate quantitative or qualitative methods. Students will present their findings in a comprehensive research report formatted according to APA guidelines and through a formal oral presentation. Additionally, students will prepare their work for possible submission to a peer-reviewed outlet (e.g., conference, journal). Throughout the course, students will develop critical thinking, project management, and professional communication skills, preparing them for advanced study or careers in psychological science. This hands-on experience fosters independent research skills and a deep understanding of the research process in psychology. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, PSYC 2750, PSYC 2825, PSYC 3825 and 6 credit hours of Psychology; or permission of the instructor. Co-requisite: PSYC 4750 must be taken concurrently or prior to taking PSYC 4825.

PSYC 4875 Advanced Psychology Lab (1-3)

Lab is designed to complement a 4000-level core course, allowing the instructor and student to work collaboratively toward the development of a course related project. May be repeated for credit if content differs.

PSYC 4900 Senior Overview (3)

Provides a culminating experience for psychology majors, allowing students to synthesize and apply psychological knowledge in preparation for a career. Students will use their psychology skills and knowledge to become familiar with the research, theories, and methods associated with an area of personal interest. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and psychology senior status; or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4925 Senior Capstone: History, Philosophy, and Systems of Psychology (3)

At first glance, psychology appears to be a highly disjointed discipline. However, psychology is unified through its historical traditions and systems of thought. This course will explore the roots of modern psychological thought and methodology. We will trace these roots from their origins in philosophy and the natural sciences through the early schools of psychology and on into its current form. In addition to learning about the major schools and systems of psychology (e. g., Functionalism, Structuralism, Gestalt, etc.), we will explore how cultural and political forces shaped the development of various psychological theories. We will also examine the lives and works of the men and women whose work created psychology's foundation. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, PSYC 2825, and 18 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 4950 Senior Assessment (1)

Provides a senior assessment experience for psychology majors by providing a means for students to demonstrate their knowledge of the field and apply psychological knowledge in preparation for a career. Students will take a series of measures (quizzes, exercises, papers) to assess their standing in the discipline. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and psychology senior status; or permission of the instructor.