PY 100 : Principles of Psychology
The study of human behavior from a scientific point of view, including research and theory relative to all the major specialty areas within psychology.
Psychology
Degrees and Certificates
Classes
PY 149 : Special Topics in Psychology
This course may include (1) topics of special interest offered by the faculty, (2) special readings or laboratory investigations under the supervision of the faculty.
Hours
1 - 6Prerequisites
Permission of instructor.
PY 215 : Careers in Psychology
This colloquial course will introduce students to the career opportunities that exist for individuals with a degree in psychology, including work that is attainable with a bachelor’s degree as well as occupations that are associated with graduate education (i.e., master’s/doctoral degrees) in the field.
Hours
1Prerequisites
Psychology major.
PY 220 : Research in Psychology
This course will introduce students to research methods in psychology through the in-depth analysis of prominent psychological studies and theories. Students will examine the methods, results, conclusions as well as criticisms of the studies. Upon completion of the course, students will have a greater understanding of the influential studies that shaped contemporary psychology, how research is conducted, and the ethical and methodological challenges faced by researchers.
Hours
3PY 225 : Developmental Psychology
An overview of human growth and development from conception to death. Theoretical explanations and research examining physical, biological, cognitive, and social changes.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 230 : History of Psychology
Antecedents of psychology in philosophy and science prior to 1860; emergence and development as a distinct discipline since that date.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 235 : Adult Psychology
Human growth and development as it pertains to the lifespan of the young adult through the older adult: physical traits, learning, intelligence, social and emotional growth, personality and adjustment.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 245 : Theories of Personality
A wide variety of classical and modern theories of personality and the pertinent empirical research are presented and compared. Consideration given to the components of a good theory of personality and to the application of various personality theories.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 249 : Special Topics in Psychology
This course may include (1) topics of special interest offered by the faculty, (2) special readings or laboratory investigations under the supervision of the faculty.
Hours
1 - 6Prerequisites
Permission of instructor.
PY 250 : Multi-Cultural Psychology
This course will introduce students to the theory and applications of multiculturalism. Students will acquire knowledge and awareness to aid in their ability to relate, connect, and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Topics will include race, ethnicity, nationality, age, gender, ability, sex, sexual orientation, religion, spirituality, socio-economic status, and other expressions of worldwide diversity of individuals.
Hours
2PY 270 : Child and Adolescent Psychology
Human growth and development from conception through young adult. Students will study traits, learning, intelligence, and social and emotional growth, personality and adjustment.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 310 : Experimental Psychology
Course will consist of a 3-hour lecture and 1-hour lab per week. Lecture sessions will include behavioral science methodology, research design, measurement, and data collection in psychological studies. Laboratory experience in designing and conducting psychological experiments.
Hours
4Prerequisites
C or better in MA 200 and PY 220.
PY 322 : Physiological Psychology
Biological basis of behavior including: the anatomy and physiology of brains and neurons, motor systems, sensation and perception across multiple sensory systems, hormone systems and sexual behavior, sleep and other regulatory behaviors (hunger/thirst), cognitive functions (learning, memory, attention, executive function), and the biological basis of psychological disorders (including drug based therapies).
Hours
4Prerequisites
PY100 and BI104.
PY 331 : Social Psychology
Social behavior of the individual and the group; culture and personality; social interaction, dynamics of social groups; social phenomena. This course will count as a sociology major elective.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 335 : Learning & Cognition
This course covers theoretical interpretations, research methods, and empirical findings of multiple types of learning (including classical and operant conditioning) as well as the mental processes involved with attention, perception, memory, decision making, problem solving, intelligence, and language.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 341 : Human Sexuality
The course will deal primarily with the psycho-social aspects of sexuality, and to a lesser degree, with the physiological aspects. Topics include: varieties of sexual behavior, procreation and contraception, creating healthy relationships, sexual health and gender roles.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 342 : Health Psychology
The course presents the influences of behavior, culture, lifestyle, stress and coping, and psychosocial factors on health, illness, and chronic disease. Topics include health disparities and health promotion. Students will learn to apply biopsychosocial research to promote health equality, modify health behaviors, and prevent diseases.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100, PY 225 or PE 333.
PY 345 : Abnormal Psychology
Begins with a systematic study of positive mental health. Survey of mental disorders of childhood and adulthood with a focus on the diathesis-stress paradigm, treatment and prevention issues. The topical questions of genetic vulnerability, resilience, treatment, medications and prevention are discussed.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 349 : Special Topics in Psychology
This course may include (1) topics of special interest offered by the faculty, (2) special readings or laboratory investigations under the supervision of the faculty.
Hours
1 - 6Prerequisites
Permission of instructor.
PY 350 : Forensic Psychology
This course introduces the students to the field of forensic psychology and the ways psychology and the law interacts; the psychology of police and policing, corrections, probation and parole, victim services, addiction services, family services and the full range of activities related to law enforcement and the evaluation and treatment of offenders.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 376 : Independent Study
Reading or research at a greater depth than is permitted in a normal class.
Hours
1 - 3Prerequisites
Permission of the instructor, division dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
PY 385 : Ethics in Psychology
This course provides general and specific guidance for ethical conduct in the science and practice of psychology. Topics covered include legal issues, clinical welfare, professional competencies, supervision, personal wellness, and issues in practicing psychological research with human and animal subjects.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 401 : Internship in Psychology
Practical experience under supervision of psychology faculty and cooperating facility; student will establish a contractual agreement with the facility, the facility supervisor and the college stating academic goals which will enable application of psychological theories in order to synthesize and integrate academic knowledge.
Hours
1 - 6Prerequisites
Senior standing and permission of division dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
PY 449 : Special Topics in Psychology
This course may include (1) topics of special interest offered by the faculty, (2) special readings or laboratory investigations under the supervision of the faculty.
Hours
1 - 6Prerequisites
Permission of instructor.
PY 460 : Theory and Practice of Counseling
Basic concepts, client/therapist relationship, and introduction to the therapeutic process, techniques and procedure of the major approaches to individual and group counseling.
Hours
3Prerequisites
PY 100.
PY 476 : Independent Study
Reading or research at a greater depth than is permitted in a normal class.
Hours
1 - 3Prerequisites
Permission of the instructor, division dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
PY 485 : Senior Thesis in Psychology
Student completion of research project. The student's final thesis will reflect in-depth investigation of a topic of interest in current psychological research.
Hours
3Prerequisites
SC 316, MA 200, Psychology major, Senior standing.