Course Descriptions
PSY 100 Introduction to Psychology (4)
An introduction to the study of behavior covering theories, methods and findings of research in major areas of psychology. Topics covered will include the biological foundations of behavior; learning, perception, motivation, personality; developmental, abnormal, and social behavior; and methods of assessment. This course is a prerequisite to a significant number of courses in this and related areas of study. Lecture: 3 hours, laboratory/discussion, 2 hours.
PSY 195 Orientation to Psychology (1)
An orientation to educational issues and career planning for students who have declared psychology as a major. Topics include career paths and opportunities, professional resources and issues, and educational planning. Pass/Fail only. Prerequisite: Declared major in Psychology, or consent of instructor.
PSY 215 Experimental Psychology (4)
A study of the application of scientific methods to psychological research. Special emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of contemporary research in experimental psychology. Particular attention is focused on the design, execution, and written report of laboratory research. Lecture: 3 hours, laboratory: 2 hours. Prerequisite: PSY 100 and sophomore standing, or consent of instructor.
PSY 216 Applications of Statistics in Psychology (4)
An introduction to statistical procedures used in making decisions based on psychological data. May not be used to satisfy the laboratory requirement in the College of Arts and Sciences. Lecture: 3 hours, laboratory, 2 hours. Prerequisite: PSY 100.
PSY 223 Developmental Psychology (3)
An introduction to the principles of developmental psychology as seen in human growth over the entire lifespan, with the primary focus on infancy through adolescence. Emphasis is placed on theory and data relating to the developmental aspects of cognition, language and personality. Prerequisite: PSY 100 or equivalent. (Same as FAM 254.)
PY 110 General Psychology (3)
A survey course in general psychology designed to give the student an introduction to the history, methods and consent of modern psychology. Topics include the history and systems of psychology, psychological research, physiological psychology, psychological processes, developmental psychology, personality, abnormal behavior and social psychology.
PY 230 Psychosocial Aspects of Death and Dying (3)
A one-semester course designed for students who have completed at least one semester of an introductory psychology or sociology course, or its equivalent. Focus will be on the understanding of the biopsychological, sociological and psychological aspects of death and dying. The primary goal of the course is to help the individual recognize the behavior and attitudes associated with death in preparation for dealing with dying and bereavement. Prerequisite: Introductory psychology or sociology, or consent of instructor.
PY 297 Psychology of Aging (3)
An overview of the demographics of aging, theories of aging and research methods used to study adult development. The course will examine the biological, psychological and sociological impact of aging, longevity, work, retirement, death and bereavement. Prerequisite: PY 110 or PSY 100 or consent of instructor.
PY 298 Essentials of Abnormal Psychology (3)
An historical overview of the services provided to individuals with mental illness and theories of personality development. Assessment, diagnosis and treatment of the major mental disorders, and the biological, psychological, and sociological contributing causation factors are discussed. Prerequisite: PY 110 or PSY 100 or consent of instructor.
