Psychology course descriptions

The course is a survey of psychology as a natural science and a social science. As a study of human behavior and the mind, the course examines current sub-areas of psychology with attention to neurology, the environment, situation and experience, and the self. Throughout the content, the course also considers how presuppositions in philosophy and theology intersect, integrate, and conflict with views on the human condition.

Psy-210 Educational Psychology (2)

See Educational Psychology - EDPS-210

Psy-211 Child Development and Psychology (2)

An in-depth study of factors influencing the development and behavior of children from conception through adolescence. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.

Psy-212 Child Development and Psychology: Young Children (1)

An intense study of the preschool-age child in twelve key areas of development. Involves weekly observations of a preschool child in a childcare setting. Thirteen hours of field experience is required. Prerequisite: Psy-211, or take simultaneously, and sophomore standing.

Psy-221 Lifespan Development (3)

This course will address the entire range of the human life chronologically from the moment of conception through death focusing on the physical, cognitive, social and personality development of each chronological period. Basic theories, research findings, and practical applications will be discussed.

Psy 241 Child Psychology (3)

This course will address the development of the child from conception to adolescence focusing on the physical, cognitive, social and personality development of childhood. Basic theories, research findings, and practical applications will be discussed.

Psy-290 Health Psychology (3)

See HHP-290.

Psy-306 Introduction to Psychological and Social Research (3)

See Soc-306.

Psy-324 Psychology of Exceptionality (3)

This is a survey course which attempts to develop an understanding and appreciation for students with special needs. Characteristics of those with learning disabilities, physical challenges, behavioral disabilities, developmental delays, hearing and vision impairment, and giftedness are studied. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Education: EDPS-210, Psychology majors: Psy-101. 12 hours of field experience is required.

Psy-341 Group Techniques (3)

A seminar-laboratory approach for the study of group work and the group process as they apply to the self, the classroom, youth work, business, and society. Prerequisite: Psy-101.

Psy-385 Psychological and Sociological Analysis of Modern Literature (3)

See Eng-385.

Psy-406 Applied Research (3)

See Soc-406.

Psy-421 Adolescent Psychology and Development (2–3)

The course presents an arranged sequence of psychological and development theories, concepts, and insights designed to inform the practitioner working with adolescents. The content and class interaction cumulatively examine adolescent behavior and belief systems. The aim is to assist the practitioner with grounded yet flexible decision-making when working with young people in the contexts of counseling, teaching, youth ministry, family, and community. Prerequisite: Upper level standing.

Psy-422 Psychology and Development of the Young Adolescent (1)

The course focuses on 10- to 15-year olds as they are beginning the transformation from childhood to adolescence. Targeted developmental areas are physical/sexual, social, spiritual, emotional, and cognitive development. Prerequisite: Psy-211 or Psy-421, or simultaneous enrollment.

Psy-442 Introduction to Counseling (3)

This introductory course is designed to assist the student to 1) reflect upon attitudes as a helping person; 2) increase ability to use a problem management model; 3) acquire the various skills that under gird an effort to effectively listen and respond to another person; and 4) develop a personal philosophy of helping. Prerequisite: Psy-101 and upper level standing.

Psy-445 Abnormal Psychology (3)

Reviews theories and methods which underlie the classification and study of as well as responses to abnormal behavior. Prerequisites: Psy-101 and upper level standing.

Psy-451 Personality Theory (3)

A study of the dynamic organizations within the human organism of those psychophysical systems that determine the individual’s unique adjustments to his/her environment. Empirical and speculatory viewpoints are studied with careful differentiation between surface and depth factors. A variety of personality theories are explored for direct applicability to the work of teacher, counselor and enabler. Prerequisites: Psy-101 and upper level standing.

Psy-481 Practicum in Psychology (3)

The practicum in psychology is a planned and supervised educational experience which integrates the knowledge and theory of psychology gained through course work with field experience. Students reflectively observe professionals in the field and participate in meaningful and appropriate ways in the work at hand. Prerequisite: advisor’s recommendation. Upper level standing. Students should contact the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process.

Psy-499 Psychology Honors (1)

Arranged for qualified students to conduct research, present research or to assist faculty in psychology related endeavors.