May 20, 2024  
2019-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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2019-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

Course descriptions are organized in alphabetical order by subject. Information on courses can be found under appropriate headings in the below sequence.

Dual-Level (400) Courses

Some courses numbered 400 to 499 are open to graduate students and undergraduate students who meet course or program prerequisites. Credits will apply at either the undergraduate or graduate level but not at both. Each student should consult his/her advisor, program director, and/or dean concerning the policy and the appropriateness of the course prior to enrolling in any 400-level courses.
 

Physics
  

  • PHY 495 - Independent Study in Physics Credits: 2

    Independent study affords students the opportunity to engage in independent study related to their major field, a supporting area, or specialized interest.

    Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credit.

Political Science
  

  • PLS 100 - U.S. Government and Politics Credits: 3

    Foundation for understanding the philosophical heritage, constitutional principles, civil rights and liberties, and the formal and informal institutions that form the U.S. government. Focus on political factors and dynamics of democracy, the Constitution, political parties, interest groups, the media, elections, and the branches of U.S. government.

    Category: Citizenship & Responsibility - S
  

  • PLS 141 - World Politics Credits: 3

    Deals with the nation state, international institutions, global issues and the international political system in a contemporary context. Attention given to the formulation and execution of foreign policy; political, economic, military and cultural interactions among states; and the organization and maintenance of the international community.

    Category: Interconnections - G
  

  • PLS 190 - General Education Special Topics Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental general education interest not covered by the regular general education courses.

    Category: Cat D - Polit, Eco and Geo Sci
  

  • PLS 201 - Foundations of Political Science: Concepts and Critical Analysis Credits: 3

    Examines the philosophical foundation of the discipline of political science. Examines the theoretical foundations of contemporary political regimes. Introduces political science theories and theory building. Introduces students to the tools to conduct critical literature reviews, access professional-level information, assess political arguments using systematic logical analysis, and use the analytical tools to develop independent research.
  

  • PLS 202 - Applications in Public Affairs Credits: 3

    The objectives of this course are to provide students with the opportunity to develop information literacy, to develop the ability to properly apply information to answer open-ended and/or controversial questions, to organize that information in such a way that convincingly answers open-ended or controversial questions, to develop oral communication skills so as to gain confidence and rhetorical power when delivering a speech or engaging in vigorous deliberation. An additional set of objectives of the course are to facilitate the professionalization of students through career counseling, creation of resumes, post-college planning, among others.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100   or HON 279  
  

  • PLS 231 - State and Local Government Credits: 3

    Study of the organization and functions of government at the state, county, township, and city levels. State-local and national-local relations are stressed.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of Instructor
  

  • PLS 251 - Introduction to Comparative Politics Credits: 3

    Cross-national study of the principles, forms, and functions of democratic, fascist, and communist governments. Political parties and electoral systems, legislative representation, federalism, constitutional order, bureaucracy, and dictatorship are examined in the functional and comparative manner.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of Instructor
  

  • PLS 271 - Introduction to Public Administration Credits: 3

    Basic introductory course in field of management in governmental offices. Includes organization of executive offices, controls over administration, budgeting and personnel procedures and methods to achieve administrative objectives.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 291 - Contemporary Issues Credits: 3

    Focuses on political or policy issues. Covers background of the issues, current developments, and prospects for change. Topics vary from semester to semester.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 300 - Advanced American Government and Public Policy Credits: 3

    In-depth description of the structure, functions, and public policy making involvement of U.S. governmental institutions. Focuses on legislative, executive, administrative, and judicial institutions and process, the impact of interest groups, political parties, public opinion, and federalism. Examines the policy-making process, both in general and with reference to specific types of public policies.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100   or HON 279  
  

  • PLS 301 - Political Science Research Methods Credits: 3

    Evaluates the process of research in political science, focusing on research design; discusses ethical issues in research; trains students in techniques of data collection and processing; provides computer-based training in quantitative analysis and interpretation of statistics.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 202  or PLS 201   or PLS 271  
  

  • PLS 302 - Public Policy Analysis Credits: 3

    Examines the policy making process(es) and implications for the conduct of policy analysis. Reviews the policy implementation process(es) and implications for the conduct of policy analysis. Focuses upon specific quantitative and qualitative policy analysis/program evaluation techniques.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 301 
  

  • PLS 307 - Applied Research in Political Science Credits: 1-3

    This course provides Political Science majors with the opportunity to engage in an independent research project. The topic chosen with the consultation of a department faculty member. Each credit should reflect a minimum of 40 hours of research. Students are expected to present their research finding in writing and orally in an appropriate professional setting.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 301   or permission of instructor.
  

  • PLS 311 - The Legislative Process Credits: 3

    Analyzes the powers and rules of legislatures and legislators in modern democracies with special reference to the American Congress. Emphasis placed on the decision-making process, including internal and external pressures upon legislators.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100   or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 312 - The American Presidency Credits: 3

    Analyzes the structure and functions of the American institutionalized presidency, including an examination of the power and roles of the president and the decision-making process.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100   or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 313 - The Judicial Process Credits: 3

    Describes the operation of the federal and state court systems; evaluates the processing of cases; examines the mechanisms of judicial recruitment; discusses the impact of decisions on the political process.
  

  • PLS 321 - Public Opinion and Political Media Credits: 3

    Deals with the nature of public opinion and its role in the political process. Explores how the American political system operates in an age of mass communication, how citizens and politicians are affected by the media, and how the media influences the political process.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 322 - Interest Groups in American Society Credits: 3

    Studies the origins, organizations, opportunities, tactics of interest groups (pressure groups) and an assessment of the legitimacy of their role in democratic and quasi-democratic politics. Investigates problems connected with the existing incentive to join groups, the iron law of oligarchy, access points to government decision-making functions to private interest pressure groups.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 323 - Campaigns, Elections & Political Parties Credits: 3

    Explores operation of the electoral system both theoretically and practically, and examines the roles of citizens in the electoral process. Reviews the development and status of political parties in American society.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 324 - Women in American Politics Credits: 3

    Intended and designed for males and females, examines the changing political role of women in the United States and compares women across American subcultures. Investigates political attitudes and values, voting behavior, and recruitment of women for political leadership.
  

  • PLS 325 - African American Politics Credits: 3

    Examines the relationship between African American citizens and the American political system in order to gain a broader prospective of the American political process. Representation and strategies for empowerment discussed. Provide consideration of the behavior of African Americans within the political institutional settings and at various levels of government. Also addresses the positive and negative impact of the Civil Rights Movement, the Supreme Court, and Affirmative Action as it relates to the integration of African Americans in the American political system.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or ETH 101   or HON 279  
  

  • PLS 331 - Urban Politics & Administration Credits: 3

    This course is designed to provide an understanding of the development of urban politics in the United States, and issues confronting the urban political structure. The course analyzes problems found in urban politics such as funding, education, law enforcement, land use, health, housing, and development of urbanization.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 333 - Applications in State and Local Public Policy Credits: 3

    This course features a hands-on approach which maximizes experiential learning and student participation. This course provides an in-depth professional experience that involves research and writing on public policy topics, and interacting with General Assembly, Commonwealth agency and judiciary staff, and advocacy organizations such as associations, including visits to public officials? offices. Students will study concepts in public policy, apply them in practical situations, and discuss public policy matters with public officials, including conducting interviews and writing public policy papers. Pre-requisite: PLS 100 .

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279  
  

  • PLS 341 - International Law and Organization Credits: 3

    Analyzes the role and dynamics of international law and organizational political system. Includes the scope and nature of international law and organization, the concepts and procedures for maintaining international peace and security, substantive rules, and international law and the function of the United Nations and regional organizations.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 141  or HON 274   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 342 - American Foreign Policy Credits: 3

    Study of the principles of American foreign policy including process and policy formulation and execution. Roles of the president, Congress and the State Department and other governmental agencies are investigated.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or PLS 141   or HON 279   or HON 274   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 343 - Global Economic and Political Conflict Credits: 3

    This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of global political, economic, security and social relationships. The key focus of the course is contemporary global cooperation and conflict.
  

  • PLS 347 - Applied Diplomacy Credits: 3

    Uses an off-campus education experience to facilitate learning about international organizations, diplomacy, negotiations, and the politics of a region of the world. Students will represent a country at a regional, national or international simulation such as the Model United Nations, Model Organization of American States or Model European Union. Students may be responsible for additional expenses associated with off-campus travel and activities. Permission of the instructor is required.

    Prerequisite(s): Requires permission of instructor.
  

  • PLS 348 - Applied Diplomacy Credits: 3

    Uses an off-campus education experience to facilitate learning about international organizations, diplomacy, negotiations, and the politics of a region of the world. Students will represent a country at a regional, national or international simulation such as the Model United Nations, Model Organization of American States or Model European Union. Students may be responsible for additional expenses associated with off-campus travel and activities.

    Prerequisite(s): Requires permission of instructor.
  

  • PLS 349 - Applied Diplomacy Credits: 3

    Uses an off-campus education experience to facilitate learning about international organizations, diplomacy, negotiations, and the politics of a region of the world. Students will represent a country at a regional, national or international simulation such as the Model United Nations, Model Organization of American States or Model European Union. Students may be responsible for additional expenses associated with off-campus travel and activities.

  

  • PLS 351 - European Politics Credits: 3

    Examines the politics, institutions, and political culture of European countries. The course focuses both on the internal dynamics of European societies as well as integration of the continent.
  

  • PLS 356 - Politics of Developing Regions Credits: 3

    Examines the forces that shaped and continue to impact the governments and politics of the Third World. Emphasizes two lines of inquiry: colonialism and patterns of post-colonial relations between north and south; and the challenges faced by Third World nations in their efforts for political, economic and social advancement in an increasingly integrated world.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 141  or HON 274  
  

  • PLS 357 - Comparative Revolutions Credits: 3

    The course examines the theory and practice of revolution over time and across the world. Close focus is maintained on the conditions, causes, strategies, mobilizing techniques, and ideologies of revolution with particular attention on the strategies each employs in establishing and maintaining legitimacy as the `true voice’ of the people.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279  
  

  • PLS 359 - European Political Culture & Identity Credits: 3

    The primary theme of the course is how citizens and government interact to bring about change.  The course provides a historical and contemporary analysis of how European governments try to both control and satisfy citizen demands and how citizens try to influence governments at the local, national and European Union levels.  Particular attention is given to the rights of minority groups and non-citizens such immigrants and refugees.

    Category: Citizenship & Responsibility - S
  

  • PLS 361 - Political Theory from Ancient Times through the 19th Century Credits: 3

    Surveys the major political ideas of the world from ancient times to the present. Consists of critical appraisal of the ideas and thinkers and their impact on modern political institutions.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 362 - Contemporary Political Ideologies Credits: 3

    Explores some of the most important concepts of political science taken up by contemporary philosophers. Course content can range from theories of justice, power, punishment, and leadership to representation, human rights, and democracy.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100  or HON 279  
  

  • PLS 363 - American Political Thought Credits: 3

    Critical study of the political ideas underlying and associated with personalities and institutions in the United States from colonial times.
  

  • PLS 365 - Constitutional Law: The Federal System Credits: 3

    Analyzes leading American constitutional decisions relating to national legislative, executive, and judicial powers and to the position of the states.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100   or HON 279   or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 366 - Constitutional Law: First Amendment Freedoms Credits: 3

    Examines body of constitutional law associated with the First Amendment including establishment and free exercise of religion; and the freedom of speech, press, and assembly. Discusses issues surrounding the freedom of expression and the right to privacy.
  

  • PLS 367 - Constitutional Law: Criminal Law and Equal Protection Credits: 3

    Examines body of constitutional law associated with the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Eighth Amendments and evaluates the protection of criminal defendants’ rights in the United States today. Discusses case law surrounding the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause.
  

  • PLS 371 - Public Management Credits: 3

    Studies the principles and functions of public managers. Covers traditional as well as new patterns of organization theory and management and the fundamentals and theory of planning.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 271  or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 372 - Public Personnel Administration Credits: 3

    Studies the development and functions of public personnel administration. Roles of various levels of management in the development and implementation of personnel policy and administration covered as well as those of the functional specialist. Impact of American culture and public policy upon public personnel administration also emphasized.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 271  or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 373 - Public Financial Administration Credits: 3

    Deals with fiscal policy determination, accountability, and management of financial resources. Administrative and political aspects of the budgetary process covered. Appropriate references made to the impact of federal programs upon state and local governments and the fiscal relations existing between various levels of government.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 271  or permission of instructor
  

  • PLS 374 - Public Service Ethics Credits: 3

    Explores the historical and specific contemporary issues concerning ethics in the public sector. Ethical problems and their relationship to politics surveyed. Emphasizes ethical questions encountered by individuals who enter public service and will evaluate attempts to enforce ethical conduct among public servants by statutes and codes of conduct.

    Prerequisite(s): Nine hours in political science or permission of instructor. PHL 105  and/or PHL210 recommended.
  

  • PLS 381 - Principles of Labor Relations Credits: 3

    Introduction to labor-management relations in private and public sectors. Topics such as domestic industrial relations systems; institutional labor movements; negotiation, administration and contents of labor agreements; contract dispute resolution; and labor relations abroad may be included. Students taking PLS381 cannot enroll in MGT 342  and vice versa.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 271   or MGT 340  
  

  • PLS 389 - Selected Topics in Public Administration Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer regular classes in Public Administration in areas of department major interest not covered by regular courses.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 100 
  

  • PLS 390 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.
  

  • PLS 391 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 1-3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.
  

  • PLS 392 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.
  

  • PLS 393 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.
  

  • PLS 394 - Selected Topics in International Politics Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer regular classes in International Politics in areas of department major interest not covered by regular courses.
  

  • PLS 395 - Internship I Credits: 3

    Contact the department for further information on internships.
  

  • PLS 396 - Internship II Credits: 3

    Contact the department for further information on internships.
  

  • PLS 397 - Internship III Credits: 3-6

    Contact the department for further information on internships.
  

  • PLS 398 - Independent Study in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.
  

  • PLS 399 - Senior Seminar Credits: 3

    Required senior capstone course. Students complete an independent research project that integrates knowledge of the content and methods specific to the study of political systems and processes. Evaluation includes a senior thesis, oral presentation, and career development statement with resume.

    Prerequisite(s): (PLS 100   or HON 279   ) and PLS 141  and PLS 201   and PLS 202  and PLS 300   and PLS 301  .  In addition, students must demonstrate that they have enrolled in at least one Political Science elective class that emphasizes each of these three skill-sets: oral communication, written communication and problem solving.
  

  • PLS 431 - Pennsylvania Local Government Credits: 3

    Concerns the structure and administrative functions of local governments in Pennsylvania. Extensive emphasis placed on analyzing local governmental functions and problems emanating from the jurisdictions’ political, social, and economic environments.

    Prerequisite(s): 9 hours in political science or permission of instructor.
    Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
  

  • PLS 490 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.

    Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
  

  • PLS 491 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.

    Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
  

  • PLS 492 - Selected Topics in Political Science Credits: 3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.

    Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.

Psychology
  

  • PSY 101 - General Psychology Credits: 3

    Survey of major principles, research results, and applications of contemporary psychology. Topics traditionally covered include learning, memory, perception, motivation, personality and social behavior.

    Category: Interconnections - D
  

  • PSY 105 - Research Design and Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences I Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Primarily for psychology majors and the first in a two-semester sequence of courses in research design and statistics as applied to the behavioral sciences. Topics include background research skills, hypothesis development, research methodology, descriptive statistics (using calculator and computer), and an introduction to probability.

    Effective Spring 2020: The first in a two-semester sequence of courses in research design and statistics as applied to the behavioral sciences. Topics include background research skills, hypothesis development, research methodology, descriptive statistics (using calculator and computer), and an introduction to probability.

    Prerequisite(s): Restricted to psychology majors or B.S.Ed. majors. PSY 101   (may be taken concurrently) or HON 151   (may be taken concurrently)
  

  • PSY 205 - Research Design and Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences II Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Designed to provide a collection of principles, methods and strategies useful in planning, designing, writing, and evaluating research studies in the behavioral sciences. Topics include research designs, measurements, hypothesis testing, statistical significance, estimation and the analysis of data. Use of computer statistical packages to analyze data emphasized.

    Effective Spring 2020: The second in a two-semester sequence in research design and statistics as applied to the behavioral sciences. Designed to provide a collection of principles, methods and strategies useful in planning, designing, writing, and evaluating research studies in the behavioral sciences. Topics include research designs, measurements, hypothesis testing, statistical significance, estimation and the analysis of data. Use of computer statistical packages to analyze data emphasized.

    Prerequisite(s): Restricted to psychology majors. PSY 105  with minimum grade of C and PSY 101   (or HON 151   ) or permission of instructor.
  

  • PSY 235 - Conditioning and Learning Credits: 3

    Designed to teach the basic principles of conditioning and learning. Emphasis on classical and operant conditioning in laboratory research and applied situations.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 240 - Psychology of Personality Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Basic theories concerning the structure, dynamics, and development of personality are discussed. Viewpoints covered include psychodynamic cognitive, humanistic and behavioral approaches to understanding personality.

    Effective Spring 2020: Basic theories concerning the structure, dynamics, and development of personality are discussed. Viewpoints covered may include psychodynamic, cognitive, humanistic, trait, biological, evolutionary, and behavioral approaches to understanding personality.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 250 - Psychology of Life Span Development Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Provides a basic understanding and appreciation of the interrelated growth processes of development across the life span. Includes discussion of physical, interpersonal, social, peer, self-developmental, emotional, and cognitive processes. Credit earned in this course is not applicable to credits required of the psychology major or minor. Please note that credits earned count as free electives for psychology majors or minors who choose to take this course. Recommended for pre-health professions and exercise science students. (Offered winter and summer terms).

    Effective Spring 2020: Students in this course will learn about development across the lifespan. Students will be introduced to the basic theories, milestones and applications in life span development. Please note that credits earned in this course will count as only free electives for psychology majors or minors. This course is recommended for pre-health professions, exercise science students, and other students who are interested in a general overview of life span development. (Offered winter and summer terms).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 265 - Childhood and Adolescence Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Provides understanding and appreciation of the interrelated growth processes of child development. Includes physical, interpersonal, social, peer, self-developmental, emotional, and cognitive processes.

    Effective Spring 2020: Students in this course will learn about how children grow and develop from infancy through adolescence. Students will be introduced to the basic theories, research, and applications in child and adolescent development. Topics covered in this course include understanding the contexts of child development, physical development, cognitive development, and socioemotional development. This course will also highlight the impact of socioeconomic, gender, ethnic, and racial diversity on key developmental issues.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 270 - Social Psychology Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Examines theories, research, and everyday life in an effort to understand how people perceive and influence each other.

    Effective Spring 2020: Examines concepts, theories, and methods related to social attitudes, behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Topics may include what factors influence our judgments of ourselves and others (social cognition), the self, attitudes (e.g., prejudice), stereotyping, discrimination, persuasion, conformity, obedience, interpersonal attraction, relationships, cooperation, competition, and aggression.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 301 - Experimental Psychology Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Introduction to the execution of planned laboratory experiments. Deals with problems in designing experiments, data collection and analysis, and the writing of research reports. Experiments may be conducted in the areas of sensation, perception, motivation and learning.

    Effective Spring 2020: Introduction to the execution of planned laboratory experiments following accepted scientific principles. Deals with problems in ethical considerations, designing experiments, data collection and analysis, and the writing of research reports using APA style. Experiments in an area of psychology may be conducted.

     

    Prerequisite(s): Restricted to psychology majors. PSY 205  with minimum grade of C or permission of instructor.
  

  • PSY 311 - Applied Behavior Analysis Credits: 3

    The course is an overview of applied techniques for assessing and modifying behavior known as ABA (applied behavior analysis). Techniques examined within the course will include descriptive and functional assessment, functional analysis, differential reinforcement, response prevention, environmental enrichment, punishment, extinction, and stimulus control.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 235   with minimum grade of C
  

  • PSY 315 - Psychology of Prejudice and the Minority Experience Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Examines the psychological roots of prejudice and discrimination in modern society, including the nature, prevalence, causes, and consequences of discriminatory behavior. Specifically, the class addresses the underlying psychological processes that influence prejudice towards underrepresented minority groups. Topics include racism, sexism, heterosexism, ageism, weight bias, and other forms of prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory behaviors.

    Effective Spring 2020: Examines the psychological roots of prejudice and discrimination in modern society, including the nature, prevalence, causes, and consequences of discriminatory behavior. Specifically, the course addresses the underlying psychological processes that influence prejudice towards underrepresented groups. Topics include racism, sexism, heterosexism, ageism, weight bias, and other forms of prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory behaviors.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 320 - Behavioral Neuroscience Credits: 3

    Explores the relationship between biological and psychological processes by examining nervous system anatomy and physiology as it relates to problems of emotion, motivation, cognition, perception, and mental illness.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151   or permission of instructor.
  

  • PSY 323 - Sensation and Perception Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Includes study of human senses, sensory coding, neurological basis of sensation, perceptual processes in vision and hearing, perceptual development, theories of perceptual experience, adaptation level theory, person perception, self-perception, and the physiological basis of perception. Some experiments performed in the area of sensation and perception.

    Effective Spring 2020: The study of human senses, sensory coding, neurological basis of sensation, perceptual processes across different senses, theories of perceptual experience, and the physiological and cognitive basis of perception.Numerous demonstrations will assist in elucidating concepts and experiences in sensation and perception.
  

  • PSY 325 - Psychology of Human Cognition Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Designed to teach the underlying principles of human cognition (i.e., attention, thinking, perception, comprehension, memory), experimentation and research in cognition, application of cognitive principles to applied settings (i.e., schools).

    Effective Spring 2020: This course is the first course in the cognitive series. Designed to teach the underlying principles of human cognition through evaluation of past and present cognitive research. The primary focus is in the area of memory. The course includes discussions of the application of cognitive principles in real world settings (e.g., educational, marketing, judicial). Familiarity with basic research design is expected prior to taking this class.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 330 - Abnormal Psychology Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Characteristics, causes and treatment of the major types of maladaptive behavior are discussed. Topics include current mental disorder classification system and contemporary forms of psychotherapy.

    Effective Spring 2020: Characteristics, causes, and treatment of major psychological disorders will be discussed.  Topics will include primary theories of how disorders develop, current mental disorder classification, and contemporary forms of treatment.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 333 - Psychology of Attention and Consciousness (Effective Fall 2020) Credits: 3

    Psychology of Attention and Consciousness addresses both the “hard” and “easy” problems of consciousness. The “easy” problem involves determining which brain area(s) associate with different psychological processes.  Famous neuroscientists Francis Crick (co-discoverer of DNA double-helix structure) and Christoff Koch illustrate this in an approach called the neurophysiological correlates of consciousness (NCC’s). The “hard” problem addresses how physiological brain events produce subjective experience (consciousness).  While the majority of scientists agree that consciousness arises from neurophysiological events, a major challenge has been to explain how these events produce subjective experience (e.g., what it is like to have the experience of pain or the experience of seeing a beautiful sunset). The course will survey cutting-edge research and theories in the areas of attention and consciousness. Content will also include applied topics such as the training of attention and the influence of sleep and sleep deprivation on these processes.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101   or HON 151  

    Restricted to Psychology majors and minors
  

  • PSY 335 - Psychology of Social Influence Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Introduction to principles of social influence. These principles applied to understanding topics such as attitude change, recruitment and retention in religious cults and other cult-like groups, product advertising, political advertising, fundraising techniques, public service campaigns, initiations and group loyalty, brainwashing.

    Effective Spring 2020: Social Influence involves one’s intentional or accidental persuasion of another resulting in changes to beliefs, attitudes, and/or behaviors. We will examine aspects of social influence related to advertising, marketing, propaganda, and indoctrination, as well as compliance, group initiation, and obedience, etc., as they relate to interpersonal and professional relationships.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 270  with minimum grade of C or permission of instructor.
  

  • PSY 340 - Introduction to Clinical Psychology Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Includes discussion of how clinical psychologists assess symptoms of psychopathology, diagnose mental disorders, conceptualize clients’ symptom reports and develop treatment plans. Students not taught how to do assessment or psychotherapy but will learn about assessment and psychotherapy approaches used by clinical psychologists. Purpose is to provide opportunity to integrate material learned in other courses and to learn more about the field of clinical psychology.

    Effective Spring 2020: This course will involve discussion of the various forms of graduate training and professional activities of clinical psychologists. Students will acquire knowledge regarding the processes of clinical assessment, diagnosis, conceptualization, and psychotherapy for psychological disorders.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 240  with minimum grade of C and PSY 330  with minimum grade of C

    Effective Spring 2020: or permission of instructor
  

  • PSY 350 - Psychology of Sustainability Credits: 3

    This course will highlight examples of how psychology makes contributions to the sustainability field through a variety of perspectives (behavioral, cognitive, social). We will read and discuss primary source articles that discuss intersections between psychology and sustainability. In addition, students will gain hands-on experience with sustainability initiatives through a Research/Service project.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 352 - Adulthood and Aging Credits: 3

    Providing the student with an understanding of the main developmental processes occurring during the stages of adulthood and old age. Discusses theories of aging, social implications of the recent extensions in longevity, age-related physiological processes and their implications in terms of physical and mental health, changes in cognition, personality, and psychopathology. Also discusses the impact of important life events and developmental tasks on the individual. Thus, marriage and divorce, work and retirement, and finally death, dying, and bereavement, will be discussed, and major empirical results will be presented and analyzed.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 355 - Psychology of the Exceptional Child Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Psychological investigation into the nature of human differences as manifested in children and youth. Concerned with scientific study of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development in unique children, as well as individual, institutional, and cultural response to the exceptional child. Cultural, social, and scientific procedures for the definition of deference emphasized. Treatment and educational systems touched upon.

    Effective Spring 2020: Students in this course will learn about developmental and behavior disorders in children and adolescents.  Students will learn how exceptionalities in children and adolescents affect the child, family, school, and other contexts. In addition, students will examine the clinical methods for examining and treating disorders in children and adolescents.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 361 - Psychology of Group Interaction Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Surveys and analyzes psychological constructs, research, and principles of group interaction. Through participation and observation of face-to-face groups, implications are drawn for work groups in education, industry, and other social situations.

    Effective Spring 2020: Surveys and analyzes the psychological constructs, research, and principles of small group interaction. Through participation and observation of face-to-face and electronic groups, we will examine the motivational, behavioral, social, and cognitive aspects of groups and their dynamics. This course will primarily focus on issues affecting groups in an organizational setting like leadership, cohesion, performance, decision-making, and conflict.

    Prerequisite(s): Effective until Spring 2020: (PSY 101   or HON 151   and junior standing) or permission of instructor.

    Effective Spring 2020: PSY 101   or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 365 - Multicultural Psychology Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Focuses on recent psychological research concerning understanding the differences in the way we think, feel, and behave. Designed to introduce psychological issues concerning gender, cultural values, race/ethnicity, religion, individualism-collectivism, self-identity, group identity and group conflict, environmental ecology, culture and development, culture and communication/relationships. Discussions are geared toward promoting an understanding of human experience in a multicultural context.

    Effective Spring 2020: Focuses on recent psychological research on the commonalities and differences in the way cultural groups think, feel, and behave.  May include discussion of psychological issues concerning race/ethnicity, gender, social class, sexuality, disability, and religion, as well as cultural values, individualism-collectivism, cultural identities and group conflict, environmental ecology, development, communication and relationships, privilege and prejudice.  Discussions are geared toward promoting an understanding of human experience in a multicultural context.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 374 - Advanced Research in Psychology I Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Psychology majors provided with opportunity to engage in a research project in psychology. Typically includes the selection of a topic, background research on topic, and writing of a research proposal. The stages of collection of data and analysis of data may be included, depending on the nature of the project.

    Effective Spring 2020: Students are provided with an opportunity to engage in a research project with a faculty member of the psychology department. Usually, this includes the student working on some or all of the following: selection of a topic, background literature search, writing a research proposal, gathering data, conducting appropriate statistical analysis, writing a report, and/or presenting results at local, regional, or national conferences. Offered fall semesters only.

    Prerequisite(s): Effective until Spring 2020: PSY 301  with minimum grade of C or PSY 305 and permission of instructor.

    Effective Spring 2020: PSY 301    with minimum grade of C and permission of
  

  • PSY 375 - Advanced Research in Psychology II Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Second of a two-semester sequence of courses designed to provide psychology majors with an opportunity to engage in research. Typically, in this second course, students gather data, do appropriate statistical analysis, and make an oral presentation of the project and its results. Students encouraged to attend scientific conventions and submit proposals to conventions for poster and/or paper presentations.

    Effective Spring 2020: Students are provided with an opportunity to engage in a research project with a faculty member of the psychology department. Usually, this includes the student working on some or all of the following: selection of a topic, background literature search, writing a research proposal, gathering data, conducting appropriate statistical analysis, writing a report, and/or presenting results at local, regional, or national conferences. Offered spring semesters only.

    Prerequisite(s): Effective Spring 2020:  PSY 301  with a minimum grade of C and permission of instructor.
  

  • PSY 379 - Capstone Seminar in Psychology Credits: 3

    Capstone seminar designed to allow students to apply a number of theoretical approaches and models to real-life examples and to familiarize students with some of the current debates in the field of psychology. Based in large part on group work that will be conducted by students in an attempt to explore in more depth issues and topics originally discussed in class in relatively broad terms. Short papers and oral presentations provide opportunity for integration, application and polishing of writing and oral communication skills.

    Prerequisite(s): Requires at least junior standing and at least 15 credits from psychology courses.
  

  • PSY 381 - Honor Thesis I Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: First of a two-semester sequence of courses designed to provide students in the Psychology Honors Program an opportunity to develop and conduct a major independent, empirical research project.  Tasks for this course typically include the production of a research proposal with literature review, research question, data collection and analysis plan along with the defense of that document in front of a faculty committee.

    Effective Spring 2020: The first semester of a two-semester course sequence during which a student typically reviews the theoretical and empirical psychological literature and proposes a research question to be answered through data collection and analysis.
  

  • PSY 382 - Honor Thesis II Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Second of a two-semester course designed to provide students in the Psychology Honors Program an opportunity to develop and conduct a major independent, empirical research project.  Tasks for this course typically include data collection and analysis as well as the production of an APA-style thesis document that is defended in front of a faculty committee.

    Effective Spring 2020: The second semester of a two-semester course sequence in which a student typically collects data, analyzes that data, and writes up the research project in the form of a manuscript–the thesis document. 
  

  • PSY 383 - Children’s Understanding of Their Social World Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: This course will explore children?s developing understanding of the social world. An emphasis will be placed on the development of social cognition. Various forms of social learning (ways children learn from others) will be discussed. Broad theories of developmental social cognition including Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory and Dodge’s Social Information Processing Theory will be studied. Empirical research investigating topics related to how children learn from others and how they learn about themselves and others will be examined.

    Effective Spring 2020: This course will explore children’s developing understanding of the social world. Empirical research related to how children learn from others and how they learn about themselves and others will be examined. Topics include various forms of social learning, knowledge of the self, perceptions of others’ thoughts and predictions of others’ behaviors, and prosocial behavior. In addition, factors that impact children’s understanding of the social world will be examined.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 384 - Psychology of Person-to-Person Interaction Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Focuses on the development of basic helping skills. Topics include modes of response, creating a positive relationship, problem solving, effective feedback, and applications to special populations. Skill enhancing activities include role playing, video taping, and small group exercises.

    Effective Spring 2020: Course will focus on the development of basic helping skills. Topics will include helping responses and specific skill development, relevant ethical issues, and the importance of understanding diversity. Skill enhancing activities will include role playing and small group exercises.

    Prerequisite(s): Restricted to psychology majors only.

    Effective Spring 2020: PSY 101   or HON 151  
  

  • PSY 385 - Internship in Psychology Credits: 1-4

    Provides a variety of internship experiences that provide opportunity to broaden the psychology major’s preparatory background. Contact the internship coordinator of the department for further information.
  

  • PSY 386 - Internship in Psychology Credits: 3

    Provides a variety of internship experiences that provide opportunity to broaden the psychology major’s preparatory background. Contact the internship coordinator of the department for further information.
  

  • PSY 389 - Internship in Psychology III Credits: 3

    Provides a variety of internship experiences that provide opportunity to broaden the psychology major’s preparatory background. Contact the internship coordinator of the department for further information.
  

  • PSY 393 - Selected Topics in Psychology Credits: 1-3

    Opportunity to offer courses in areas of departmental major interest not covered by the regular courses.
  

  • PSY 394 - Seminar in Selected Topics I Credits: 3

    Studies concepts and research in areas of psychology not covered by the regular courses of study. Areas covered will be those in which instructors have special expertise and there is a special student request.
  

  • PSY 395 - Seminar in Selected Topics Credits: 3

    Studies concepts and research in areas of psychology not covered by the regular courses of study. Areas covered will be those in which instructors have special expertise and there is a special student request.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 101  or HON 151   and senior standing and permission of instructor.
  

  • PSY 398 - Independent Study in Psychology Credits: 3

    Independent study affords students the opportunity to engage in independent study related to their major field, a supporting area, or specialized interest.
  

  • PSY 399 - Independent Study in Psychology Credits: 3

    Independent study affords students the opportunity to engage in independent study related to their major field, a supporting area, or specialized interest.
  

  • PSY 410 - Psychology and Women (Effective Spring 2020: Psychology of Women and Gender) Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Focus on views of women in early psychology, then turns to an in-depth analysis of the psychological aspects of issues affecting women. Topics include: current and historical psychological theories about women and sex differences; achievement motivation; women and mental illness; psychological aspects of menstruation; female sexuality; women’s romantic relationships and friendships; reactions to victimization (rape, domestic violence; obsessive relationships and stalking, sexual abuse); psychological consequences of women’s physical appearance; body image and eating disorders; prejudice and discrimination against women; consequences of inclusive vs. noninclusive language; improving communication and cooperation between men and women.

    Effective Spring 2020: Focus on views about women in early psychology, then turns to an in-depth analysis of psychological issues affecting women and girls.  Topics may include historical and current theories of gender, power, gender similarities/differences, gender development, gender identity, sexual orientation, sexuality, marriage, mothering, work/achievement, aging, gender violence, mental health, and feminist therapy.

    Prerequisite(s): Requires at least junior standing.

    Effective Spring 2020: PSY 101   or HON 151   or permission of instructor
    Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credit.
  

  • PSY 420 - Health Psychology Credits: 3

    Effective until Spring 2020: Study of psychological processes that help and hinder the maintenance of health. Health is viewed in a framework of positive aspects beyond just the absence of pathology. Holistic and allopathic systems are compared and seen as complimentary. The organism is considered as a process of coordinated hierarchical self-regulating structures. Maintenance of proper psychophysical balance is seen as a means for management of stress and the immune system. Opportunity to practice some wellness skills.

    Effective Spring 2020: Course will discuss the relationships among mental processes, physiological processes, behavior, and health; put more simply: the mind-body connection. The interaction of these factors will be explored from scientific and applied perspectives and students will learn to conceptualize health through a biopsychosocial lens.  Topics will include stress, sleep, depression, major medical disorders, the health behavior change process, and relevant developmental aspects of health.  Course will also review the various roles of health psychologists and examine how health psychologists interact with other disciplines to treat health conditions and promote wellness.

    Prerequisite(s): Requires at least junior standing.

    Effective Spring 2020: PSY 101   or HON 151  
    Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credit.
 

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