Psychology Course Descriptions

An introduction to the science of mind and psychological processes with an emphasis on empirical approaches. Includes a survey of the contributions to our understanding of behavior by research and theory in the various topical areas of psychology with careful consideration of how these topical areas contribute to an overall understanding of psychological processes.

This course introduces statistical methods applied in psychological research. It will cover topics such as hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, and sampling distributions, and provide basic training in the computer package SPSS. The course aims to enable students to design and test research questions in psychology and to improve students' understanding of published research. Quizzes, exams, and a group report. Intended for psychology majors. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or equivalent

An introduction to the science of learning and how it applies to educational contexts. Topics include brain structure and development; types of memory and learning processes; approaches to building knowledge, skills, and understanding; and factors that drive more powerful and successful learning. Each student will arrange their own practicum of three hours per week in a school class or similar learning environment.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Practica include a wide variety of fieldwork opportunities in psychology. For example, students might do applied work in the areas of domestic violence, mental health treatment, family legal services, victim assistance, developmental disabilities, human resources, or school psychology. Practica can be done during the academic year (at local placements or on campus) or during the summer. The academic component of the internship includes readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty supervisor, and a written report appropriate to the discipline. Course grades are based on this academic work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

The general goal of this course is to examine the diversity of human sexuality in contemporary American society. Students will explore various social, cultural, clinical, and health perspectives of human sexuality. Topics may include gender and gender roles, love and intimacy, communication, sexual expression, contraception, pregnancy, childbirth, sexual coercion, challenges to sexual functioning, sexual transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS, and commercial sex.

An examination of the social psychological dimensions of the Holocaust. Topics include social psychological and cultural origins of the Holocaust (including the role of Christian anti-Semitism); social psychological aspects of Nazi ideology; and understanding perpetrators, victims, and bystanders. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

A scientific approach to questions about musical structure and its effect on human behavior and mental experience. Topics include the physical characteristics of sound that specify pitch, loudness, and timbre; the perception of melody and rhythm; the universality of musical structures; the psychology of musical ability and performance; and the effect of music on emotions. Ability to read music and familiarity with the basics of music theory recommended. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing; ability to read music and familiarity with the basics of music theory recommended

This course explores the link between mind and body from various psychological perspectives such as social, clinical, and psychobiological. We will survey the role of stress, emotion, self-regulation, and individual differences as predictors of health and illness. We also will examine assessment, diagnostic, treatment, and ethical issues in psychophysiological disorders. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

A study of the major mental disorders. Theory and research into the origins of each disorder are examined from a variety of perspectives (psychoanalytic, biological, cognitive, behavioral, and humanistic). PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

Topics courses will explore a particular topic in psychology at the intermediate level. Topics will vary with each offering of the course. Different offerings of the course may be taken for credit with the instructor's consent.

A study of the development of behavior and mental processes from conception through middle childhood. Topics include prenatal development, attachment, children’s language skills, social and cognitive development. A variety of theoretical perspectives are covered. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

Study of the development of behavior and mental processes from emerging adulthood through late adulthood, covered from a variety of theoretical perspectives. Topics of psychosocial and cognitive development include sex and fertility, identity, intimacy, healthly aging, generativity, neurocognitive disorders, and caring for the elderly. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

Identical in content to Psychology 260, but requiring a weekly three-hour laboratory that involves systematic work with infants and children to learn assessment techniques and experimental methodologies for the study of development. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

A psychological approach to the study of individuals in a social context. Research and theories concerning personality, emotion, cognition, and perception are used to understand such topics as self-identity, perception of others, prejudice, social influence, and personal relationships. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

This course explores social psychology through the lens of research and theory on prejudice and discrimination. What are prejudice's causes, consequences, and cures? We will examine theories related to personality, emotion, cognition, and perception that help to explain generalized and specific prejudices (e.g., sexism/heterosexism, racism, ethnocentrism, anti-Semitism). Students will be assessed through exams and papers. Intended as an alternative to PSYC 270. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

An introduction to the study of how people function in organizations. This course blends lecture and seminarstyle discussion focusing on the following topics: (1) motivation, (2) emotions, and attitudes, (3) stress and wellbeing, including work-family balance, (4) communication, (5) teams, (6) leadership, influence and power (7) organizational culture and development, and (8) diversity and organizational justice. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

This course will introduce psychology majors to the principles of research methods, research design, and statistical analyses. Students will also learn about philosophy of science, ethical considerations in research, and the role of theory in generating sound, testable hypotheses.  PSYC 280 is required of all psychology majors and ideally should be taken by the end of sophomore year. Simultaneous enrollment in PSYC 281 is required. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing and previous enrollment in one of STAT 107, STAT 255, ANTH 207, BIOL 280, PSYC 170. Simultaneous enrollment in PSYC 280 and PSYC 281 required.

This course focuses on data analysis, inferential and correlational statistics, interpretation of results, and research writing. Students design and execute several psychology studies, collect data to test preconceived, theoretically-founded hypotheses, analyze and interpret data, and disseminate findings in both verbal and written form. PSYC 281 is required of psychology majors and ideally taken by end of sophomore year. Simultaneous enrollment in PSYC 280 is required. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing and previous enrollment in one of STAT 107, STAT 255, ANTH 207, BIOL 280, PSYC 170. Simultaneous enrollment in PSYC 280 and PSYC 281 required.

An interactive lecture course that explores basic neuroscience research techniques, experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, laboratory safety, and ethical practices in animal research. During some lectures students perform mini-experiments in techniques ranging from behavioral assays to microscopy. Student work is assessed through exams, writing assignments, a short oral presentation, and participation. PREREQUISITES: One course in psychology or biology.

The course introduces psychology majors to the principles of research design, data collection, data analysis, and research report writing. This course focuses on philosophy of science, the span of methodologies available to psychological scientists, ethical considerations in research, correlational and inferential statistical analysis, and interpretation of results. This course should be taken sophomore year after having taken the introductory statistics course. PREREQUISITES: STAT 107 or STAT 255; For students also majoring in anthropology,ANTH 207 can fulfill the statistics requirement For students also majoring in biology or neuroscience, BIOL 170 can fulfill the statistics requirement.

An examination of the intricate connections between cultural experiences and psychological processes. Topics include cultural contributions to development and socialization, identity and personality, morality and religion, emotions, and interpersonal relationships. Emphasis will be placed on developing an understanding of cultural and cross-cultural research methods and critical interpretation of research results. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

Using developmental psychopathology theory, this course involves the examination of psychological disorders in children and adolescents. The course emphasizes the complex interplay of biological and psychological factors over the course of development that lead to different outcomes. Several topics are covered including ADHD, anxiety, autism, conduct disorder, eating disorders, depression, and self-harm. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

This will be a lecture and discussion based course focused on 1) basic principles of groups and teams 2) considerations of diverse groups, and 3) organizational contexts. Students will demonstrate their knowledge through writing, exams, and experiential learning of how to work effectively in groups. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

This interdisciplinary seminar will evaluate the interactions among biological, psychological, and sociocultural forces that shapes women's talent for and participation in science. Diverse topics will range from explanations for attrition as women progress through their education and careers to evidence for benefits of gender diversity in the STEAM and social sciences. Students will engage in class discussions, write short papers, and present a group presentation. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 284 or 280/281 OR Instructor consent

An examination of theory and research on gender identity, gender roles, discrimination, and gender similarities and differences. Topics include gender stereotypes, gender identity development, sexual orientation, sex education, as well as intersections of gender with other aspects of identity. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing

What is learning and how does it look in the brain? What is memory and why do I sometimes forget? Are people born as blank slates or do they have some intuition about the world? How do people gather data to form an understanding about which items are causally connected? How do people update prior beliefs given new evidence? Are there computer models related to learning and memory? These questions will be engaged in this course. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100

This course focuses on the assessment and treatment of mental disorders. Each of the major approaches to conducting psychotherapy (e.g., psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, humanistic, etc.) is examined. Students also start developing their clinical assessment skills. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 281 and PSYC 250 or 290

This course investigates the mental processes involved in the acquisition, organization, and use of knowledge. Topics surveyed include attention, memory, imagery, and problem solving. One laboratory per week involving demonstrations, experiments, and other hands-on learning opportunities. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100

An investigation of the mental processes involved in the acquisition, organization and use of knowledge. Information processing and other approaches are used to study pattern recognition, attention, memory, imagery, problem solving and related topics. Lecture, discussion and class demonstrations. Students will write short papers and take exams. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

Cognitive neuroscience is an emerging field that studies the biological processes that underlie cognition. This course will focus on understanding how the human brain gives rise to perception, attention, memory, language, executive function, and social cognition. Particular emphasis will be placed on learning cognitive neuroscience methods through hands on activities and designing your own studies. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 280/281 or PSYC 284 or BIOL 170 or instructor approval

The new science of the mind treats cognition as a distributed process involving the brain, body, and world. This seminar explores the role of material settings and tools, bodily engagement, social interaction, and cultural processes in human reasoning, problem solving, and learning. Students will write short papers examining aspects of cognitive activity in real-world settings. PREREQUISITES: PHIL 105 recommended

Behavior and their underlying neural substrates have evolved in response to specific environmental conditions, resulting in vast species diversity in behavior and neuroendocrine mechanisms. This course is designed as an introduction to the field of behavioral neuroendocrinology and an exploration of the primary literature on the neuroendocrine underpinning of animal behavior spanning from learning to sex differences in complex social behaviors. Students will engage in discussion, grant preparation, debates, quizzes and presentations. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 348, NESC 200, OR Instructor Approval

This is a lecture course designed to offer students an opportunity to explore the structure and function of the nervous system. In the first two-thirds of the course, we will examine what are considered to be the foundations of biological psychology; historical origins and methodologies, neuroanatomy and physiology, and cellular anatomy and physiology. In the final part of the course, we will take a systems level approach to understanding the way in which we know our world (sensation). Students learning will be assessed through written assignments, quizzes, exams, discussions, presentations and participation in in-class labs. Students should not take this course if they have already taken NESC 200. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

An interdisciplinary examination of the ways in which behaviorally active drugs exert their effects, drawing on research in pharmacology, psychology, biochemistry, anatomy, and neurophysiology. Provides an understanding and appreciation of the role of behaviorally active drugs in people’s lives, today and in the past. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing; at least one prior biology course recommended

This course focuses on major approaches to psychotherapy with children and adolescents. Students will learn techniques for assessment and diagnosis and learn about empirically supported treatments for children and adolescents with mental disorders. A weekly lab will focus on developing clinical skills to work with children and families. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 250 or PSYC 290 and sophomore standing, or consent of instructor

This seminar-style course investigates the theory and practice of meditation from psychological and Buddhist perspectives. Topics to be considered include the effects of meditation on the brain, mindfulness, compassion, and the secularization of religious practices. Course meetings will focus on discussion of readings and experiential learning. Assessment will involve quizzes, reflection on experiential practice, and papers. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing or instructor approval.

An introduction to the structure and function of the nervous system and its relationship to behavior. Topics include cellular physiology, neuroanatomy, sensory processes, motor control, and neuropharmacology. No laboratory. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing; at least one biology course recommended

A lecture course with a laboratory that explores the neurobiological mechanisms associated with complex behaviors. Topics range from hormonal regulation of behavior to learning and memory, motivation, and emotion, sleep, appetitive behaviors, and various psychological disorders. Assessments include exams, presentations, laboratory reports, and participation. Not open to students who took PSYC 360 or PSYC 525. PREREQUISITES: NESC 200 or PSYC 348 AND PSYC 284 OR BIOL 280 or instructor approval

An introduction to the physiological and psychological processes by which we receive, transform, and use the information from the world acquired through our senses. Special emphasis on visual and auditory perception to allow a more in-depth study of two perceptual systems and to provide information useful to those interested in the visual arts and music. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 or sophomore standing

This course focuses on topics related to understanding individuals' behavior in organizations. Students will learn and practice techniques in empirical research in organizational psychology. Lab sessions will focus on skills in data collection and analysis. Student work may be assessed though a combination of quizzes, written work, projects, and presentations. PREREQUISITES: PSYC100 or instructor approval

An investigation of the basic principles of learning, including classical conditioning, operant conditioning, punishment, biological constraints on learning, and behavior modification. One laboratory per week involving animal learning experiments. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 and sophomore standing, or consent of instructor; PSYC 280 and 281 recommended

This course is identical in content to PSYC 380, but it has no laboratory. An investigation of the basic principles of learning, including classical conditioning, operant conditioning, punishment, biological constraints on learning, and behavior modification. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 100 and sophomore standing, or consent of instructor

Advanced study arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Practica include a wide variety of fieldwork opportunities in psychology. For example, students might do applied work in the areas of domestic violence, mental health treatment, family legal services, victim assistance, developmental disabilities, human resources, or school psychology. Practica can be done during the academic year (at local placements or on campus) or during the summer. The academic component of the internship includes readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty supervisor, and a written report appropriate to the discipline. Course grades are based on this academic work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students considering an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

This course focuses on advanced topics in neuroscience involving emotion. We will explore emerging knowledge of the brain's involvement in emotional behaviors, including physiological and psychological states. Course topics include: neural plasticity, human neuroscience methods, emotions, and pathophysiology of affective disorders. PREREQUISITES: NESC 200, PSYC 348, or PSYC 365

Practical experience working in clinical settings in the local community. Students spend 10 hours per week at assigned settings, attend regular class, and complete complementary readings. Applications must be submitted by the end of the fifth week the term that immediately precedes the term in which the course is taught. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing as a psychology major, PSYC 250 or PSYC 290, PSYC 335 or PSYC 355, and consent of instructor

An examination of development during the years between the onset of puberty and early adulthood. Topics include theories of adolescence, achievement motivation, identity formation, gender and sexuality, and family and peer relations. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 260 or 265

A survey of the origins of modern psychology, examining the influence of various philosophical perspectives and the transition to current scientific approaches. Works by authors of historical significance and current trends in psychological theory and practice are read and evaluated. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing and at least one course in psychology, or consent of instructor

Students will read theoretical and empirical articles in a selected topic in psychology, which will be discussed in class sessions. Students will write a final literature review or research proposal. May be repeated when topic is different

Topic for Fall 2024: The Psychology of Trauma
PREREQUISITES: PSYC 280, or PSYC 284 or consent of instructor What happens when we experience something traumatic?  This course will explore explanations from neuroscience as well as developmental and cultural perspectives as we delve into the possible symptoms that can emerge over time, and several different approaches to treatment.  Short papers and presentations will add to class discussions in preparation for each student's written literature review.

This course is identical in content to PSYC 530, but it has no laboratory. An examination of the interrelationships between the brain and behavior. Topics include sleep, language, motivation, emotions, learning, and mental disorders. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 360

An examination of the nature and structure of language, integrating knowledge from linguistics, psychology, neurophysiology, and sociology. Focus on the psychological theories and experimental evidence about language production and perception.

Gesture studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the use of the hands and other parts of the body in communication and cognition. In this seminar we discuss studies of gesture types, universals, and variations; gesture development; gesture production and perception; relations of gesture to thought and language (spoken and signed); and functions of gesture in human interaction, problem-solving, and learning. PREREQUISITES: One 200-level course in linguistics or psychology, or consent of the instructor

This course examines social development with a particular focus on gender issues. Topics include gender identity in intersection with other types of identity development (e.g., ethnicity), sex education, gender role socialization, sexual orientation development, and parenting.

Examination of the psychology of prejudice. Readings and discussions cover general theories of prejudice as well as the dynamics of specific types of prejudice (e.g., racism, sexism). The specific areas covered may shift from year to year.

Topic for Fall 2024: Sex and Sexiam
PREREQUISITES: PSYC 270 and 281 (or 284), or consent of instructor Examines the social psychology of gender, focusing on binary gender stereotypes and roles that emerge from power differences and independence between the sexes.

A study of the nervous system from the perspectives of psychology and biology. Topics vary year to year and may include glial cells, neural development, and the evolution of nervous systems and neurotransmitter systems. Lecture only. May be repeated when topic is different.

Topic for Fall 2024: Biopsychology of Parenting
PREREQUISITES: CHEM 116, BIOL 150 and one course in psychology; or PSYC 360 and one course in biology; or consent of instructor This discussion-based course will explore the biological and psychological phenomena behind differences in parental practices. Particularly, we will address the physiological, hormonal, ecological and social bases of these differences. We will consider a variety of animal species, including humans.

Advanced study arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Practica include a wide variety of fieldwork opportunities in psychology. For example, students might do applied work in the areas of domestic violence, mental health treatment, family legal services, victim assistance, developmental disabilities, human resources, or school psychology. Practica can be done during the academic year (at local placements or on campus) or during the summer. The academic component of the internship includes readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty supervisor, and a written report appropriate to the discipline. Course grades are based on this academic work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students considering an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Required for senior psychology majors. Section meetings focus on discussions of readings related to section topics and to student projects. Students will complete a substantial written senior thesis based on an original empirical project, applied work, or critical review of established research and theory. Students will publicly present their work in senior presentations. PREREQUISITES: PSYC 284

Advanced study arranged and carried out under the direction of an instructor. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Practica include a wide variety of fieldwork opportunities in psychology. For example, students might do applied work in the areas of domestic violence, mental health treatment, family legal services, victim assistance, developmental disabilities, human resources, or school psychology. Practica can be done during the academic year (at local placements or on campus) or during the summer. The academic component of the internship includes readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty supervisor, and a written report appropriate to the discipline. Course grades are based on this academic work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Advanced research, arranged in consultation with the department. Students considering an honors project should register for this course, for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.