300 Level Courses
PSYC 300: Statistics in Psychology. 4 credits.
Descriptive and inferential statistics in design, analysis, and interpretation of psychological research with practical application using computers in laboratory. Notes: Students are strongly encouraged to take
PSYC 301 concurrently. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 301: Research Methods in Psychology. 4 credits.
General research design in psychology, with an emphasis on experimental design and control. Topics include use of human participants in research, reliability and validity, observational methods, and survey and longitudinal designs. Notes: Students are strongly encouraged to take
PSYC 300 concurrently. Laboratory work will include designing and running research studies and writing manuscripts using appropriate style and format. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 304: Principles of Learning. 4 credits.
Principles of animal learning, including such topics as classical and operant conditioning, discrimination learning, and animal cognition. Notes: Laboratory projects require working with computer simulations. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 309: Sensation, Perception, and Information Processing. 4 credits.
Principles of perception, including topics such as psychophysics, perceptual organization, perceptual learning, and perceptual constancies. Notes: Laboratory projects demonstrate and investigate perceptual phenomena. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 312: Educational Psychology. 3 credits.
Enables students to apply psychological principles to the learning process in the classroom context. Examines the theoretical and applied aspects of learning, motivation, human development, personality, assessment, and evaluation in educational settings. Corresponding implications for effective teaching will be discussed. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 313: Child Development. 3 credits.
Study of human psychological development from conception to adolescence including such topics as genetic factors, emotional and intellectual growth, and environmental influences. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 314: Adolescent Development. 3 credits.
Study of the biological and cultural changes accompanying adolescence, including the effect of these changes on emotional, intellectual, and social development. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 317: Cognitive Psychology. 3 credits.
An in-depth overview of important topics in cognitive psychology, including memory, attention, pattern recognition, problem solving, reasoning, and psycholinguistics. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 320: Psychological Tests and Measurements. 4 credits.
Examination and application of principles underlying the theory, interpretation, and administration of psychological tests, including a study of tests of intelligence, achievement, and ability. This course may count for both the Applied Psychology and Experimental Psychology lab requirements or for both the Applied Psychology and Technical Writing requirements. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 321: Clinical Psychology. 3 credits.
Examines evidence-based psychological assessment and psychotherapy techniques to understand, prevent, and treat psychological distress and dysfunction and promote well-being. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 322: Behavior Modification. 3-5 credits.
Examination of experimental principles of human and animal learning within theoretical framework of applied behavior analysis, including design, implementation, and evaluation of operant intervention programs across a wide variety of human situations. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 324: Personality Theory. 3 credits.
Introduction to classical and contemporary theories of personality, and comparative evaluation of major theories in terms of relevant studies. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 325: Abnormal Psychology. 3 credits.
Study of development of abnormal behavior patterns, including such topics as methods of diagnosis and prevention of serious mental disorders such as psychosomatic disorders, psychoses, character disorders, and mental retardation. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 326: Therapeutic Communication Skills. 3 credits.
Introduction to understanding and use of basic therapeutic communication skills used in clinical and counseling psychology. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 327: Psychology in the Community. 3 credits.
Individual placements in applied psychology settings. Notes: A maximum of 6 credits of
PSYC 327,
328, 421, and 422 can be applied to the psychology major. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 328: Psychology in the Community Laboratory. 1 credit.
Consists of a one-hour service learning component linked to selected psychology courses. Notes: A maximum of 6 credits of
PSYC 327,
328, 421, and 422 can be applied to the psychology major. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 333: Industrial and Organizational Psychology. 3 credits.
Examination of application of psychological principles and methods to problems commonly encountered in business and industry. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 335: Psychology of Creativity and Innovation. 3 credits.
Creativity and innovation take place in many domains such business, science and the arts. Learn the distinction between creativity and innovation. Apply findings from the scientific literature about the antecedents of creativity and innovation including emotions, cognition, individual differences, and social contexts. Experiment with ways to enhance your creativity and skills for innovation. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 340: Human Factors Psychology. 3 credits.
Reviews history and current practice of optimal product and system design as a function of psychology. Includes a brief history of human factors psychology, a review of human memory and attentional systems as they relate to product and system design, and an introduction to current methods used to analyze and redesign products and systems for optimal human interaction. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 350: Directed Reading and Research in Psychology. 1-3 credits.
Library research in psychology, culminating in a substantial formal paper; individualized sections by arrangement with faculty. Notes: No more than 6 credits in
PSYC 260,
350, and 460 can be used toward psychology major. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term.
PSYC 362: Psychology of Gender. 3 credits.
Behavior and attitudes of women; influence of chromosomes and hormones on behavior, influence of culture on sex role differentiation, and theories of sex role development. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 372: Biopsychology. 3 credits.
Survey of neuroscience, including basic neuroanatomy, neural and synaptic transmission, neural mechanisms underlying normal and abnormal behavior, and biological mechanisms of drug action. Students may earn credit for
PSYC 372 and either
PSYC 375 or
PSYC 376, but they may not earn credit for all three. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 373: Biopsychology Laboratory. 2 credits.
Functional anatomy and physiology of the brain, including dissection of brain and eye, and a demonstration and practice in research methods for studying physiological mechanisms underlying behavior. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 375: Brain and Sensory Processes. 3 credits.
First half of comprehensive survey of neuroscience, including basic neuroanatomy, neural and synaptic transmission, neural mechanisms underlying normal and abnormal behavior, and biological mechanisms of drug action. Notes: Students may earn credit for 372 and either 375 or 376, but they may not earn credit for all three. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 376: Brain and Behavior. 3 credits.
Second half of a comprehensive survey of neuroscience, including neural mechanisms underlying normal and abnormal behavior. Notes: Students may earn credit for 372 and either 375 or 376, but they may not earn credit for all three. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 379: Applied Cross-Cultural Psychology. 3 credits.
A review of important landmarks in cross-cultural research, showing how this research impacts psychology as a discipline. Emphasizes an empirical approach to cross-cultural study and includes topics such as theoretical and empirical developments in cross-cultural psychology, development of coherent schemas to guide cross-cultural research and interventions, comparison of psychology's goals and assumptions in Western and other cultures, and integration of course materials into educational and career goals of students. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 380: Introduction to Forensic Psychology. 3 credits.
Explores the differing, yet varied facets of the field of forensic psychology including landmark legal cases relevant to psychology, potential careers in forensic psychology, police psychology, expert testimony, forensic psychological assessment, psychopathy, homeland security, ethics, correctional psychology, and issues in working in the juvenile justice system. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 381: Mental Illness and Criminal Justice. 3 credits.
Examines the frequent intersection of individuals diagnosed with severe mental illness and the criminal justice system. Includes case studies that demonstrate possible judicial, therapeutic, correctional, and post-adjudication outcomes. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 382: Psychology of Crime Victims. 3 credits.
Explores short-term and long-term psychological effects of crime on victims through interviews with survivors of childhood abduction, elder abuse, intimate partner violence, and child abuse, among others. Evaluates roles and responsibilities of mental professionals and law enforcement when interacting with crime victims. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 399: Psychology: College to Career. 3 credits.
Emphasizes development and readiness for a profession in the social sciences through self-assessment and professional skill acquisition. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
400 Level Courses
PSYC 405: Mystery, Madness, and Murder. 3 credits.
Multidisciplinary approach to taboo topics that fascinate and frighten us. Instructors from disciplines across the arts and sciences bring expertise and diverse perspectives to provocative issues such as cannibalism and serial murder. Students learn to think critically and objectively while examining use in myth, literature, and popular culture. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 406: Psychology of Communication. 3 credits.
An examination of the behavior of communicating across species and sensory modalities, with an emphasis on the evolutionary basis for the various communication strategies used by animals and humans. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 408: Psychological Fitness. 3 credits.
Evaluates and applies scientific research on psychological exercises to increase one's cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physical health. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 414: Behavior Disorders of Childhood. 3 credits.
Review of the theories, methods, and research dealing with emotional and behavioral disorders of children. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 415: Psychological Factors in Aging. 3 credits.
Examination of the sensory, perceptual, intellectual, personality, health, and familial changes that occur as people age and adjust into their later years. Common and more serious adjustment difficulties and developments are discussed with attention to impacts on the individual and the family. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 417: Science of Well Being. 3 credits.
This course will examine and interpret the latest research in social, personality, and clinical psychology on well-being, character strengths, and personal growth. Emphasis will be placed on the ways in which scientists generate hypotheses regarding the nature of positive psychological traits and processes and the methods by which these ideas are tested. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 418: Death, Dying, and Grieving. 3 credits.
Advanced survey of processes of grieving and their relationship to death and dying. Topics include ways of dying, effects of death on loved ones, and care for the terminally ill. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to
PSYC 518.
PSYC 423: Group Psychotherapy Techniques. 3 credits.
Review of theory and methods of group therapy with emphasis on humanistic and interpersonal approaches, including applications to family therapy, alcoholism, and drug abuse. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 427: Community Engagement for Social Change. 3 credits.
Explores social problems and interpersonal, intrapersonal, and social aspects of addressing them. Addresses both theoretical aspects of social problems through readings and class discussion and application through community service. This course may count for both Applied Psychology and Professional Development requirements. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 430: Clinical Practicum in Psychology. 3 credits.
Gain professional experience in a clinical setting. This course takes place at the GMU Center for Psychological Services, a mental health training center that serves the community. Enrolled students provide reception room service to clients at the center, learning aspects of the center administration and acquiring relevant skills in the field. This course may count for both Applied Psychology and Professional Development requirements. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 435: Personnel Training and Development: A Psychological Perspective. 3 credits.
Overview and critique of training methods used in industry from viewpoint of psychological theory, including simulations, on-the-job training, supervisory/leadership skills training, computer-assisted instruction, and programmed texts. Principles of needs analysis, program development, and program evaluation are discussed within framework of industrial psychology. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 440: Forensic Psychology: Science and Pseudoscience. 3 credits.
Provides a critical, evidenced-based, examination of common psychological practices and constructs in the field of forensic psychology including psychological assessments, expert testimony, risk assessment, hypnosis, criminal profiling, polygraph examination, and methods of interrogation. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 441: Criminal Behavior: Psychological and Neurological Aspects. 3 credits.
Considers the psychological factors and structural and functional neurological differences that influence criminal behaviors including murder, sexual assault, fraud, intimate partner violence, and arson. The predictive and explanatory abilities of neuroimaging with respect to the criminal acts in question, as well as the role of neuroimaging in the judicial system, will also be explored. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 460: Independent Study in Psychology. 1-4 credits.
Advanced research methods in psychology in context of individual student projects or assisting with research on faculty projects; individual sections by arrangement with faculty. Notes: No more than 6 credits in
PSYC 260,
350, and 460 can be used toward psychology major. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term.
PSYC 461: Special Topics. 1-3 credits.
Selected topics reflecting interest in specialized areas. Notes: Topic announced in advance. May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term.
PSYC 462: Selected Topics in Forensic Psychology. 3 credits.
Selected topics reflecting interest in forensic psychology. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term.
PSYC 465: Pioneering Ideas in Psychology. 3 credits.
Historical background and major theoretical systems in modern psychology. Approaches include behaviorism, cognitive/information processing approaches, and psychodynamic theories. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 466: Psychology of Intimate Relationships. 3 credits.
Advanced survey of theories and research related to intimate relationships, including romantic relations and those among family members and friends in diverse cultural and relationship contexts. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 467: The Psychology of Working in Groups and Teams. 3 credits.
Teaches knowledge and the skills to meet communication, interpersonal, and task-related challenges that arise when functioning in work teams. Through readings, classroom activities, and applied problem-solving exercises, students acquire or refine team-related competencies. Students study theory of group and team processes while gaining insight from feedback on their behavior in exercises to become more effective team members. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 472: Current Topics in Brain and Behavior. 3 credits.
Rotating topics. Physiological mechanisms underlying behavior. Selected topics include neuronal bases of learning and memory, Alzheimer's disease, and biological bases of addiction. Notes: May be repeated with approval of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 480: Biological Bases of Alzheimer's Disease. 3 credits.
A survey of the causes, symptoms, drug treatments, risk factors and preventative measures associated with Alzheimer's disease. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 490: Psychology Honors I. 3 credits.
Review of topics and issues in psychology, including historical overview, theory and supporting data, and influences on behavior. Notes: Topics vary. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 491: Psychology Honors II. 3 credits.
Introduces advanced statistics, research methodologies, statistics packages, computing and information technology, and library technology appropriate for psychological research and pedagogy. Notes: Students required to complete proposal in preparation for admission to Psychology Honors III. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 492: RS: Psychology Honors III. 3 credits.
Completion of final honors project or thesis. Students must complete project or thesis, and present oral defense to committee and poster to class. Students also expected to prepare proposal to present project or thesis at regional or national conference, or prepare manuscript for publication in appropriate journal. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 499: Senior Thesis. 3 credits.
Directed research on topic agreed on by student and advisor. Notes: Students should take
PSYC 460 with same advisor to develop thesis proposal before registering for
PSYC 499. Students must complete thesis and defend it orally before advisor and two faculty members. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
500 Level Courses
PSYC 518: Death, Dying, and Grieving. 3 credits.
Advanced survey of processes of grieving and their relationship to death and dying. Topics include ways of dying, effects of death on loved ones, and care for the terminally ill. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit. Equivalent to
PSYC 418.
PSYC 527: Introduction to Neurobiology. 2 credits.
Introduction to neurobiology with overview of embryological development of nervous system in evolutionary context. Introduces regional and systems neuroanatomy by studying mammalian visual system with comparative perspective. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 530: Cognitive Engineering: Cognitive Science Applied to Human Factors. 3 credits.
Application of cognitive theory to understand and predict interactions among human cognition, artifact, and task. Discusses recent research and case studies that emphasize empirical research, analytical modeling techniques, systems design, and development of tools and methods. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 531: Mammalian Neurobiology. 3 credits.
Functional anatomy of brains of mammals, with emphasis on regional and systems neuroanatomy of humans. Anatomy correlated with material from clinical neurology where possible. Laboratory component includes brain dissections and clinical correlations. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit. Equivalent to
BIOL 516.
PSYC 552: Histology/Histochemistry of the Brain. 4 credits.
Explores conceptual basics and provides hands-on experience in techniques for studying brain tissue, including stereotaxic surgery, perfusion, sectioning, Nissl and myelin stains, enzyme histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and quantitative receptor autoradiography. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 555: Neuroimaging. 3 credits.
Covers functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) methods, experimental design and analysis issues in fMRI, structural MRI techniques and how they can contribute to cognitive neuroscience, and event-related potential methods. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 557: Psychometric Methods. 3 credits.
Examines concepts of psychological measurement with emphasis on predictor test and criterion development. Discusses reliability, validity, and specialized techniques to develop tests of ability, interest, and personality. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 558: Neuronal Bases of Learning and Memory. 3 credits.
Examines neuronal mechanisms involved in learning and memory, in animals ranging from invertebrates to humans. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 559: Behavioral Chemistry. 3 credits.
Neurochemistry and neuroendocrinology, including neurotransmitter synthesis, genetic aspects of neural functioning, mechanisms of action of neurotransmitters and second messenger systems, regulation of neuroendocrine systems, neuroendocrine effects on behavior, and neuroimmunology. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 561: Behavioral Biology of Substance Abuse. 3 credits.
Overview of biological effects of substance abuse, and biological mechanisms underlying addiction. Topics include alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and other drugs; genetics of addiction; and neural systems underlying addiction and withdrawal. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 562: Research Methods in Human Experimental Psychology. 3 credits.
Hands-on approach to selected current and/or classical human experimental psychology research methods. Course topics include experimental design, including psychophysical and physiological experimentation. In addition, mathematical, cognitive modeling and simulation, as well as advanced statistical techniques will be covered. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 563: Laboratory Methods in Behavioral Neuroscience. 3 credits.
Laboratory work, to be completed in groups, will include surgical, histological and behavioral techniques. Proper use and handling of animals, ethical issues, evaluation of neuroscience literature, experimental design and data analysis are addressed in lecture. This course requires working with laboratory rodents. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 566: Cognitive and Perceptual Development. 3 credits.
Survey of theory and the research on development of perception, memory, concepts, problem solving, intelligence, and academic skills in children. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 592: Special Topics. 1-6 credits.
Special topics reflecting interests in specialized areas. Notes: Topic announced in advance. May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
PSYC 597: Directed Reading and Research. 1-6 credits.
Independent reading or research on topic agreed on by student and faculty member. Notes: Directed reading or research for MA students in psychology. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
600 Level Courses
PSYC 601: Applied Data Analysis in Psychology I. 3 credits.
Introduces fundamental statistical concepts for applied psychological research. Concepts include descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and hypothesis testing, Analysis of Variance, and Linear Regression. The course presents these topics from an applied perspective and also covers data visualization and presentation of results to clients. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 602: Applied Data Analysis in Psychology II. 3 credits.
Covers advanced statistical concepts and approaches for applied psychological research, such as multivariate techniques, longitudinal analyses, and other more complex approaches. A key emphasis will be on using these techniques to assess applied issues, such as return on investment of interventions and utility analyses. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 603: Psychological Research Methods. 3 credits.
Covers basic principles of research methods for applied psychology contexts. The focus on this course is on learning how to interpret and design research studies and survey measures. Topics include basic concepts important to survey design and research methods, and overview of types of research design, and basic issues related to communication of research to lay audiences. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 611: Advanced Statistics. 4 credits.
Integrates basic psychological statistics and measurement issues from advanced perspective. Lab work includes using computer packages for data handling and analyses. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 612: Advanced Statistics. 4 credits.
Open only to degree students. Integrates basic psychological statistics with overview of research methodology including experimental, quasi-experimental, field approaches, and measurement issues from advanced perspective. Lab work includes use of computer packages for data handling and analyses. Notes: Students must enroll in 611 and 612 in sequential semesters. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 614: The Psychology of Aging. 3 credits.
Review of the experimental literature in psychology of aging, including intellectual functioning, personality and adjustment, minor and major adjustment problems, and role changes in later life. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 615: Language Development. 3 credits.
Seminar covering theory and research on acquisition of language, including biological and environmental influences and constraints; research methods; role of parents; individual and cultural differences; links between language and other domains of development including cognitive, behavioral, social, and emotional; language and the brain; animal language; bilingualism; and atypical language development. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 616: Employee Selection. 3 credits.
Study of administration, scoring, and interpretation of standard tests used by industry for selection and assessment of personnel. The focus is on understanding and applying evidence-based best practices. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 617: Child Psychopathology. 3 credits.
Intensive survey of major types of psychopathological disturbances of infancy and childhood. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit. Equivalent to
SPSY 617.
PSYC 618: Applied Leadership and Teamwork. 3 credits.
Covers major theories of leadership and teamwork in organizations. Includes a focus on strategies for leadership assessment, selection, and development, and also examines strategies for staffing and building high performance teams. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 619: Applied Behavior Analysis: Principles, Procedures, and Philosophy. 3 credits.
Focuses on basic principles and procedures of applied behavior analysis; identification of factors that contribute to behavioral problems and improved performance; and procedures that can be used to minimize behavioral problems, improve performance, teach new behaviors, and increase probability of behaviors occurring under appropriate circumstances. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 620: Motivation and Well-Being. 3 credits.
Covers major theories of work motivation and well-being, with an emphasis on understanding valid tools for measuring motivation and well-being and evidence-based approaches for enhancing motivation and well-being in organizational contexts. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 626: Organizational Change and Development. 3 credits.
Covers principles and strategies for facilitating effective organizational change and growth. Topics include principles of organizational growth, organizational diagnosis, the design of effective organizational interventions, leading and managing organizational change, and strategies for evaluating and calibrating organizational change. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 627: Performance Management. 3 credits.
Focuses on developing competencies in designing, implementing, and evaluating systems that measure and evaluate employees’ individual performance within the organizational context, as well as the performance of organizational units. Includes developing skills and knowledge to develop tools for providing feedback at the individual and the group/organizational level. Emphasis will be on evidence-based management practices and the dynamic nature of workplaces. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 628: Benefits and Compensation. 3 credits.
Provides an understanding of a variety of approaches for rewards, recognition, and compensation systems. Covers the underlying theoretical frameworks for the design and implementation of such systems on attraction, retention, motivation, and performance of employees, as well as the existing empirical evidence to support these propositions. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 629: Workplace Training. 3 credits.
Covers principles and strategies of effective training. Topics include assessment of training needs, development of effective instructional designs, strategies for facilitating training transfer, and techniques of program evaluation. Offered by
Psychology. Limited to three attempts.
PSYC 630: Developmental Disabilities. 3 credits.
Lectures, seminars discuss state-of-the-art and evidence-based information about developmental disabilities across life span with emphasis on mental retardation. Includes epidemiology, etiology, diagnoses, risk factors, treatment, supports, and prevention of developmental disabilities. Pertinent philosophical, ethical, and legal issues concerning this special-needs population will be discussed. Notes: In addition to course work and assigned reading, students sign up for a 20-hour per semester practicum. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 631: Industrial and Personnel Testing and Evaluation. 3 credits.
Study of administration, scoring, and interpretation of standard tests used by industry for selection and assessment of personnel. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 633: Evaluative Research in Psychology. 3 credits.
Examines research techniques specifically designed to evaluate human effectiveness of organizations and mental health programs. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 636: Survey of Industrial Psychology. 3 credits.
Intensive survey of historical and current issues in major areas of applied (nonclinical) psychology. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 638: Training: Psychological Contributions to Theory, Design, and Evaluation. 3 credits.
Focuses on applying learning principles derived from psychological research in development of training models and techniques of skill acquisition. Discusses research designs and empirical results appropriate to training evaluation. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 639: Survey of Organizational Processes. 3 credits.
Trains at conceptual/theoretical and empirical levels in organizational processes. Includes individual, interpersonal, intra-group, and intergroup phenomena as they exist in context of organizational settings. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 640: Techniques in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. 3 credits.
Skills-oriented course enabling students to construct instruments and perform functions critical to both researchers and practitioners in industrial/organizational psychology. Focuses on conducting job analysis interviews, developing and scoring task inventories, using critical incident and KSAO methods, and constructing performance appraisal and selection instruments. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 644: Methods for Social Research. 3 credits.
Examines issues in basic and applied social science methodology including internal validity, causal generalization, and construct validity. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 645: Research Methods in Human Factors and Applied Cognition. 3 credits.
Hands-on approach to selected current or classical human factors/applied cognition research methods; exact methods announced in advance. Potential methods include cognitive task analysis, usability evaluation methods, critical incident analysis, reliability analysis, workload measures, verbal protocol analysis, and engineering models of human performance. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 646: Longitudinal Data Analysis. 3 credits.
Examines techniques for measuring developmental change across lifespan. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 648: Developmental Psychopathology. 3 credits.
In-depth look at emerging discipline of developmental psychopathology. Discusses specific disorders and contexts to illustrate how knowledge of normal development, deviant development, and maladaptive behavior illuminates principles underlying adaptive functioning. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 652: Quantitative Methods II: Analysis of Variance. 3 credits.
Basic concepts in experimental design, fundamental assumptions in analysis of variance, and analysis of variance and covariance designs. Reviews multiple comparison tests. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 654: Naturalistic Methods in Psychology. 3 credits.
Theory and techniques involved in studying people in their natural environment. Primary emphasis on quasiexperimental designs and methods of systematic observation. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 667: Behavior in Small Groups and Teams. 3 credits.
Theories, methods, and topics relevant to individual behavior in small group setting. Includes effects of individual on group, effects of group on individual, and interaction effects among individuals. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 668: Personality: Theoretical and Empirical Approaches. 3 credits.
Presents comprehensive overview of current theoretical and empirical approaches to personality. Emphasizes areas of special relevance to clinical, developmental, and industrial/ organizational psychology. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 669: Social and Emotional Development. 3 credits.
Surveys theory and research relevant to development of social relationships, emotional expressiveness and regulation, aggressive and altruistic behaviors, sex roles, and morality. Emphasizes influences on such development, including parents, other adults, peers, siblings, and broader culture. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 671: Role and Function of the School Psychologist. 3 credits.
Considers roles, functions of school psychologist in educational environment, including certification and ethical standards, issues, and trends. Notes: Open only to school psychology MA students, or by permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 673: Prevention, Intervention, and Consultation in Schools. 4 credits.
Examines theory and practice of behavior modification and consultation in school environment. Notes: Open to practicing school psychologists and students in school psychology, or by permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 685: Cognitive Neuroscience. 3 credits.
Provides an overview of the neural basis of human mental functions. Uses neuroimaging (PET, fMRI, ERPs, TMS, etc.), computational, and information-processing methods to examine functions such as attention, memory, language, emotion, and decision making. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
700 Level Courses
PSYC 701: Cognitive Bases of Behavior. 3 credits.
Surveys concepts in learning, cognitive, and affective processes, including theories and supporting data and their influences on behavior. Notes: Open only to degree students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 702: Biological Bases of Human Behavior. 3 credits.
Surveys biological bases of behavior, including such topics as neural conduction, role of specific neurotransmitters, cortical functioning, and brain disorders. Notes: Open only to degree students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 703: Social Bases of Behavior. 3 credits.
Surveys social influences on behavior, including group processes, person perception, and attitude formation. Notes: Open only to degree students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 704: Life-Span Development. 3 credits.
Surveys theories and research regarding lifespan development and personality formation. Notes: Open only to degree students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 709: The Measurement of Intelligence. 4 credits.
Administration, scoring, and interpretation of major infant, child, and adult intelligence tests, with emphasis on individual tests. Development of IQ tests, theories of intelligence, and current trends and developments in intellectual assessment. Notes: Open only to school psychology MA student. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 710: Psychological Assessment. 4 credits.
Study of major instruments used in clinical assessment and nature, problems, and predictive value; administration and scoring of major techniques for evaluation of personality; and principles of interpretation of these procedures. Notes: Open only to school psychology MA students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 722: Advanced Child Assessment. 4 credits.
Problems involved in diagnostic assessment of children with various handicapping conditions such as learning disabilities, retardation, and emotional disturbances. Notes: Open only to school psychology MA or PhD students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 730: Practicum in Applied Psychology. 1-6 credits.
Practical experience in organizational setting as assigned. Notes: PhD students may repeat course for a maximum of 15 credits; MA students for a maximum 6 credits. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 15 credits.
PSYC 733: Issues in Personnel Psychology. 3 credits.
Examines psychological literature on job analysis, job evaluation and compensation, performance appraisal, training, and EEOL selection issues. Methodological and psychometric issues in interpretation and evaluation of personnel psychology research receive particular attention. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 734: Seminar in Human Factors and Applied Cognition. 3 credits.
Emphasizes current research and application of human factors, ergonomics, applied cognition, and applied perception. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
PSYC 737: Psychology of Human-Technology Interaction. 3 credits.
Emphasizes current research and development in human-computer interaction, cognitive systems engineering, cognitive ergonomics, and cognitive engineering. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
PSYC 739: Seminar in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. 3 credits.
Rotating topics such as leadership theories and management development, and performance appraisal. Notes: Topics announced in advance. May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.
PSYC 741: Psychology of Work Motivation. 3 credits.
Examines psychological literature of need, cognitive, and reinforcement theories of motivation; organizational attachment (commitment, absenteeism, and turnover); job design and quality of work issues. Emphasizes methodological and psychometric issues in interpreting and evaluating work-motivation research. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 750: School Psychology Practicum I. 1 credit.
Practical experience in school psychology. Notes: Open only to school psychology MA students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 751: School Psychology Assessment Practicum II. 2 credits.
Practical experience in school psychology. Notes: Open only to School Psychology MA students. Apply in writing for permission of department 60 days prior to beginning of semester. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 4 credits.
PSYC 754: Quantitative Methods III: Psychological Applications of Regression Techniques. 3 credits.
Reviews psychological applications of regression techniques in variety of contexts including experimental, field, and survey settings. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 756: Quantitative Methods IV: Multivariate Techniques in Psychology. 3 credits.
Surveys multivariate statistical techniques as applied to psychological research. Emphasizes analysis of complex designs and interpretation of multivariate data analyses resulting from computer processing. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 757: Advanced Topics in Statistical Analysis. 3 credits.
Focuses on noncognitive individual differences that predict performance. Published work discussed in seminar format with emphasis on conceptual development, methodological adequacy, and new directions. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree.
PSYC 768: Advanced Topics in Cognitive Science. 3 credits.
Emphasizes current research in cognitive science. Topics may include computational cognitive models, nature of expertise, diagrammatic reasoning, display-based problem solving, visual attention, decision making, goal-based versus event-based cognition, and situated action. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
PSYC 780: Applied Developmental Psychology. 3 credits.
Examines how developmental theory, knowledge base, and methodology can be used to promote health and welfare of individuals across lifespan. Topics include contemporary social issues and child development, research in applied settings, developmental assessment and intervention, and program evaluation. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 790: School Psychology Internship. 3-6 credits.
Supervised field experience of one school year. Advanced school psychology student functions as full-time staff member in school system. Student completes paper on practical research project involving alternative school psychology role in school system. Notes: Enrollment is for total 9 credits (thesis option) or 12 credits (nonthesis option) in increments of 3 credits according to placement. Students enrolled in
PSYC 799 are not required to complete the practical research project. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.
PSYC 792: Psychology Practicum. 1-6 credits.
Supervised experience working in applied, school, or agency settings. Notes: For School Psychology, interested students must apply to area coordinator 60 days before registration. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 794: Developmental Assessment. 1-6 credits.
Introduces considerations and methods needed for evaluating young children (ages two - six). Focus on the skills necessary for formulating, conducting, and reporting comprehensive developmental evaluations. Emphasizes evaluation of preschool children and includes information relating to infants, as well as older children functioning at lower developmental levels. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
PSYC 798: Thesis Proposal. 1-6 credits.
Work on a proposal for master's thesis. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 799: Master's Thesis. 1-6 credits.
Research on approved master's thesis topic under direction of thesis committee with approval of chair. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree.
800 Level Courses
PSYC 810: Psychological Assessment I. 4 credits.
First of required two-course sequence that provides comprehensive coverage of principles, strategies, and techniques of psychological assessment. Emphasizes empirically supported methods. Notes: Open to clinical psychology PhD students, or other students with permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 811: Psychological Assessment II. 4 credits.
Second of required two-course sequence that provides comprehensive coverage of principles, strategies, and techniques of psychological assessment. Emphasizes empirically supported methods. Notes: Open to clinical psychology PhD students, or other students with permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 822: Scientific Foundations of Clinical Psychology I. 3 credits.
First of required two-course sequence that provides comprehensive coverage of major psychological problems, including review of empirically supported interventions. Notes: Open to clinical psychology PhD students, or other students with permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 823: Scientific Foundations of Clinical Psychology II. 3 credits.
Second of required two-course sequence that provides comprehensive coverage of major psychological problems, including review of empirically supported interventions. Notes: Open only to clinical psychology PhD students. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 830: History, Systems, and Theories of Personality and Psychotherapy. 3 credits.
Review of history, systems, and theories of clinical psychology emphasizing traditional theories of personality and psychotherapy. Notes: Open to clinical psychology PhD students, or other students with permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 833: Social And Cognitive Foundations Of Clinical Psychology. 3 credits.
Review of theory and research in social psychology (particularly social cognition) relevant to understanding psychological adjustment, adjustment problems, and clinical interventions. Notes: Open to clinical psychology PhD students, or other students with permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 850: Teaching Practicum in Psychology. 1 credit.
Workshop in effective teaching of selected undergraduate psychology courses. Required of and designed to guide graduate teaching assistants assigned to teach undergraduate course (not a lab) for first time. Topics include course planning, syllabus development, lecture resources, effective lecturing skills, use of audio visuals, leading of classroom discussion, construction and grading of exams, student writing, instructional technology, and handling of student questions and problems. Individual critiques of teaching. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 860: Introductory Helping Skills and Motivational Interviewing. 3 credits.
Teaches fundamental interviewing skills and the theory, research, and practice of motivational interviewing. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 861: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Youth. 3 credits.
Teaches the selection, evaluation, and application of empirically supported interventions for children and adolescents with a focus on cognitive-behavioral interventions. Instruction in evidence based assessments, cognitive-behavioral case conceptualization, outcome evaluation, and consultation. Supervision of cognitive-behavioral therapy with youth. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 862: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adults. 3 credits.
Teaches the principles of cognitive-behavioral theory, conceptualization and psychotherapy techniques for psychological problems with adults. Supervision of cognitive-behavioral therapy with adults. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
PSYC 881: Practicum in Clinical Psychology. 1-3 credits.
Supervised clinical work in a professional psychological services setting. Usually includes practice in psychological assessment and clinical interventions, but can also include supervision, consultation, and program evaluation. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 21 credits.
PSYC 883: Ethical and Professional Issues in Clinical Practice. 3 credits.
Examines ethical principles and professional guidelines to help develop ethical decision-making and behavior to meet the appropriate standards of care in providing clinical services. Notes: Open to clinical psychology PhD students, or other students with permission of instructor. Offered by
Psychology. May not be repeated for credit.
PSYC 885: Clinical Externship. 0 credits.
Individual placements in psychological assessment or psychotherapy service settings. Notes: Open only to clinical psychology PhD students in the third year or more of training. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the degree.
PSYC 890: Seminar in Professional Psychology. 1-3 credits.
Each section limited to students in one concentration of MA or PhD program. See area coordinator for requirements for section in each track. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 3 credits.
PSYC 892: Special Topics in Psychology. 1-6 credits.
Selected topics reflecting specialized areas in psychology. Notes: Open only to PhD students. Content varies. May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 17 credits.
PSYC 897: Directed Reading and Research. 1-3 credits.
Independent reading on topic agreed on by student and faculty member. Notes: PhD students in the clinical psychology concentration may not take this course for elective credit. May not be repeated for credit towards a degree by students who also register for
PSYC 799. Offered by
Psychology. May be repeated within the term.