PSY-Psychology

Lower Division Collegiate

PSY101 (3 credits)
Psychology of Human Relations

Focuses on the practical application of psychology in everyday situations. Topics include self-concept, emotions, needs, values, healthy relationships, interpersonal communications, and behavioral change. The course provides students an experiential opportunity to develop an understanding and awareness of themselves and others, and a variety of practical tools for the development of interpersonal skills. Emphasis is on becoming a more effective member of the human community. Prerequisites: RD90 and WR90 or WR91 (WR91 substitutes for both RD90 and WR90) or designated placement scores.

PSY119 (4 credits)
Psychology of Personal Growth

Provides an opportunity for students to deepen and broaden their knowledge of theoretical psychology while gaining insights into their own behavior and the behavior of others. The course consists of small and large group exercises augmented by lecture. Prerequisite: WR115 or BT113 or designated placement score.

PSY199 (variable credits)
Special Studies: Psychology

Presents special topics of study in psychology through workshop, seminar, research, and/or independent study formats. Content varies according to department needs and demand. Prerequisites: May vary depending on subject offerings.

PSY201 (4 credits)
General Psychology I

Provides students with the foundational knowledge required for further study in the field of psychology. This course is designed to help students gain a historical perspective of the field of psychology, an understanding of the scientific method applied to human behavior, and knowledge of the physiology of human behavior including the brain functions, sensations and perception process. The course also explores states of consciousness, memory, learning theory, cognition, language and creativity, motivation, emotion and stress.  Provides training in the application of study skills, critical thinking and cross-cultural awareness. Prerequisite: WR115 or BT113 or designated placement score.

PSY202 (4 credits)
General Psychology II

Continues the overview of the general psychology curriculum begun in PSY201 and prepares students for continued study in more advanced psychology classes. This course is designed to help students gain an understanding of human development including personality testing, personality development and intelligence; psychopathology and current methods of treating psychopathology; social psychology; and human sexuality and gender development. Provides training in the application of study skills, critical thinking, and cross-cultural awareness. Prerequisite: WR115 or BT113 or designated placement score. Recommended prerequisite: PSY201.

PSY215 (4 credits)
Lifespan Human Development

Provides an overview of human development explored from a variety of perspectives. The primary objective is to examine biological, socio-cultural, and psychological factors that influence each stage of the life cycle, from conception until death. Exploration focuses on life tasks and societal expectations, physical and cognitive changes, and personality development across the lifespan. Both normative and non-normative pathways are considered. The course provides a bridge between biological science and social science and is an essential component for students entering the fields of nursing and human services. Prerequisite: WR115 or BT113 or designated placement score and PSY201 OR PSY202

PSY219 (4 credits)
Introduction to Abnormal Psychology

Introduces the psychology of abnormal behavior and its possible causes, along with an examination of the history and modern practice of mental health treatment, including legal issues such as insanity and civil commitment. Students will explore the nature of abnormality and examine social and cultural factors as well as specific disturbances in behavior, mood, thinking, and perception which have defined abnormality, past and present. Special problems of research with the clinical population and major theoretical models for assessment, diagnosis and treatment will also be studied. Specific topic areas include disorders of childhood and adolescence, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, disorders of trauma and stress, disorders featuring somatic symptoms, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Prerequisites: WR115 or BT113 or designated placement score, and PSY201. Corequisite: PSY202.

PSY228 (4 credits)
Introduction to Positive Psychology

Introduces students to theories and research in psychology that examine topics relevant to the nature of happiness and psychological well-being. Psychology has focused much of its efforts on the treatment of human problems. To balance this paradigm, positive psychology calls for research on what promotes human fulfillment and human potential. The most basic assumption is that human goodness and excellence are as important as disorder and human flaw. Topics covered in this course will include the nature, history and future of positive psychology, research methods, authenticity, joy, happiness, positive thinking, emotional intelligence, intuition, character strengths, core values, virtues, talents, health and social justice. Prerequisite: BT114 or WR121 or designated placement score.

PSY231 (3 credits)
Human Sexuality

Introduces the student to the many physiological, psychological, sociological, and cultural influences on sexual behavior. The course provides the foundation in both scientific and pragmatic terms to further one's understanding and acceptance of sexuality within the context and environment in which one lives. Emphasis is placed on knowledge, self-acceptance and tolerance of others’ sexual expression.  There will also be a study of atypical sexual behavior, deviance, aggression and victimization. Prerequisite: WR115 or BT113 or designated placement score.

PSY280 (variable credits)
Cooperative Work Experience/Psychology

Cooperative Work Experience is an educational program that enables students to receive academic credit for on-the-job, experiential learning based on skills acquired in their programs. Together, the instructor, employer, and student establish learning objectives that specify the significant and appropriate learning which is expected to result from the work experience. This course offers a career-related experience for students working for an approved employer. As a capstone course, it should be completed within the last two terms of a certificate or degree program. Prerequisite: CWE courses require prior arrangements with faculty or the Department Chair.