Overview & Mission

Undergraduate Programs in Psychology

The Psychology Program offers a 40 credit undergraduate major leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree, as well as an 18 credit minor. The Program is open to both women and men through evening coursework, and traditional age Women’s College students. The mission of the Psychology Program is to facilitate students’ understanding of the science of psychology, as well as the values, knowledge, and skills required to pursue empowerment of self and others in a social justice context. Students will acquire a broad understanding of the discipline of psychology, as well as a global awareness of issues affecting the development of psychological knowledge in other countries. At the same time, they will develop an appreciation of principles of ethical decision making, the importance of resilience, self-efficacy and self-advocacy as cornerstones of self-respect and self-determination, and the fundamental duty of social justice in working with underserved groups. The Program will prepare students to implement a range of empowerment strategies in their personal and interpersonal lives, successfully pursue graduate study, and work productively in their chosen fields.



Student Outcomes

Students who complete the major or minor in Psychology will have a broad range of knowledge and skills applicable to many human service careers and programs of graduate study, as well as business employment settings.

Student learning outcomes for the Psychology Program include:

  • Demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, research methodology, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
  • Recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural diversity.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the global nature of the discipline and issues affecting psychology in other countries.
  • Apply psychological principles to promote social justice.
  • Develop self-understanding and sense of purpose in life and implement a range of strategies to enhance self-efficacy.
  • Successfully complete a career development plan that will guide students’ professional goals.

Graduates

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Students who complete the degree in psychology will have a broad range of skills applicable to many human services as well as business employment settings.  The Program provides a rigorous education in fundamental content areas such as human development and personality theory, but also teaches students to think critically and communicate effectively. These are skills that are highly sought after by employers in corporations, hospitals, schools, counseling centers, and group homes.  With a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the College of Saint Elizabeth, students are eligible for entry-level positions in the mental health field and have been hired in community agencies, hospital programs, and in group homes.

Students who complete the Program are also well prepared to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees.  Many of our graduates have earned these advanced degrees from institutions such as:

  • Stevens Institute of Technology
  • University of Missouri
  • Seton Hall University
  • New York University
  • Columbia University
  • Fordham University
  • College of Saint Elizabeth
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University
  • John Jay School of Criminal Justice

Many psychology majors choose to double major and/or minor in related disciplines such as education, sociology, gerontology, justice studies, biology, nutrition and business.  Students are encouraged to discuss these options with their advisor because completing a second major and/or minor along with the major in psychology broadens students’ career choices.  The minor in psychology is also a very good option to combine with a major in another discipline such as sociology or business.  The minor will also give students the option to apply to graduate programs in psychology.

Psychology Program


Course Listing

Course level: 100 | 200 | 300 | 400 | 600

PSY-100

Intro to Psychology*

Credit Hours: 4

This comprehensive introductory course will cover major concepts and topic areas of psychology including human and social science as well as biological or natural science approaches. Content areas will include research methodology, theoretical perspectives related to human development, personality, intelligence, abnormal psychology, psychotherapy, biological psychology, learning and memory, and social behaviors. These content areas will be explored in the context of sociocultural diversity and the global nature of the discipline of psychology. Empirical findings related to diverse content areas will be explored.
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PSY-110

Orientation to the Psychology Major

Credit Hours: 1

This course is required for all psychology students. Students will learn about the curriculum related to the major, APA style, and format guidelines for writing, and accessing resources for research. The focus of this course will be the development of a career development plan that will guide the student's professional goals. Development of the student's curriculum plan, self-assessment of skill sets and interests, career interest, and resume development will be projects that assist toward this goal. The diverse nature of the field of psychology will be discussed and its vast possibilities for future graduate school and career possibilities. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-200

Lifespan DeveIopment I Child&Adolescent

Credit Hours: 4

This course will study prenatal development through adolescence. The biological, psychological, and social factors within the context of diverse cultural contexts will be explored. Areas including cognition, personality, language, and social development will be studied in relation to developments internationally as well as how these are related to other disciplines of study. Contemporary issues such as child care, child abuse, sexuality and intimacy, identity development and achievement, relationship formation with family and society and adjustment problems will be explored with an emphasis on social issues and how these impact policy and the application of knowledge and research related to development. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-203

Lifespan Development II Adult & Aging

Credit Hours: 4

This course will study the progression of early adulthood through middle and late adulthood, including geriatric and late in life issues from a developmental perspective. Factors both challenging as well as influencing successful aging will be explored. Biological, social, and psychological factors within the context of diverse cultural contexts will be explored. Research and knowledge acquired from other disciplines will be incorporated to more fully understand the broad sociocultural factors influencing development of all phases of adulthood. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-207

Industrial Organizational Psychology

Credit Hours: 2

This course is an introduction to the application of behavioral theory and research to work situations; to promoting self-awareness and self-empowerment; and in career planning and professional development. The various sub-specialties of I/O psychology will be examined, including personnel selection, performance appraisal, training and development, and organizational behavior. Emphasis is placed on the research methods employed by I/O psychologists and their application to current organizational issues. Additionally students will examine how I/O Psychology principles can be used to promote social justice.
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PSY-209

Understanding Self & Others

Credit Hours: 2

In this course, students will acquire knowledge of psychological concepts critical to understanding themselves and communicating more effectively with others. Students will consider such topics as motivation, goal setting, self-awareness, personal problem solving, assertiveness, conflict management, forgiveness, and group dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the development of personal maturity and the establishment of culturally sensitive and just relationships as cornerstones for effective functioning in school, work, family, and community settings.
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PSY-210

Intro to Forensic Psychology

Credit Hours: 2

This course will focus on the application of psychological knowledge and concepts to legal issues. Among the areas discussed are: (a) clinical-forensic applications of psychology to legal issues which may include: legal competencies; insanity, the prediction of dangerousness, civil commitment, compensation for emotional damages, confidentiality and the duty to protect, and ethical conflicts and issues in working in the legal system; and (b) legal-forensic (non-clinical) application of psychology to legal issues which may include: the history of forensic psychology; eyewitness memory, criminal investigation, and the trial and jury process. Particular emphasis will be placed on social justice and cultural sensitivity in working within forensic environments.
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PSY-217

Introduction to Counseling

Credit Hours: 2

This course is an overview of the historical, philosophical, and theoretical foundations of counseling. This course will expose the student to the diverse nature of the helping profession and its role in a complex global and sociocultural context and the potential applications to broader public policy. The various roles and functions of the counselor are examined as well as potential career paths related to the counselor role. The development of the counselor's self awareness and self understanding and how this is related to efficacy in the counselor role will be explored as well.
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PSY-219

Crisis Intervention

Credit Hours: 2

This course introduces students to the field of crisis intervention. Various approaches to defining and conceptualizing crisis intervention and its strategies will be explored. Theory, research, and practice will be studied in a diverse sociocultural context with an exploration of how these factors influence the self-understanding of the counselor and their response, and client's perspective in crisis. Contemporary issues including post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide, addiction, loss, and violence will be explored.
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PSY-230

Research Methods & Statistics I

Credit Hours: 3

This course will introduce some of the core research methods and statistical techniques used in psychology. Non-experimental methods including observation, correlation, surveys, and ex-post- facto studies will be discussed. The scientific method and research process including controlling variables, descriptive statistics, as well as ethical issues related to research will be studied. Students will identify a research topic and complete a literature review. This will continue to develop into a proposal for research that will be continued in Research Methods ll. Prerequisite: PSY 100
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PSY-230L

Research Methods & Statistics I Lab

Credit Hours: 0

This lab experience is a part of Psy 290 and must be taken at the same time. Students will participate in research exercises applying concepts acquired in Psy 290.
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PSY-233

Research Methods & Statistics II

Credit Hours: 3

This course will examine experimental research design and inferential statistical analysis used in psychology. Topics will include hypothesis testing, understanding and selecting appropriate statistical designs, validity and reliability, confound control, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. The student will develop an original research proposal. A laboratory component will be included where the student will become familiar with statistical software to analyze and interpret data. Students must register for the laboratory component (295L) of this course, which students will take concurrently with Psy 295. Prerequisites: Psy 230 and Psy 230L
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PSY-233L

Research Methods & Statistics II Lab

Credit Hours: 0

This lab experience is a part of Psy 233 Research Methods and Statistics ll and must be taken at the same time. Students will participate in practice experiments and gain experience analyzing and interpreting data utilizing statistical software.
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PSY-241

Intro to Psych & Educ of Except Learner

Credit Hours: 4

This course will study factors associated with the exceptional child within the educational setting. The student's knowledge base of the core biological, social, emotional, and cultural factors influencing the special needs and capacities of the exceptional learner will be explored. Contemporary research trends and the interdisciplinary nature of the developments in the field will be incorporated to promote the understanding of features including, family and social context, motivational tendencies, developmental features, and factors impacting achieving optimal psychological, social, and emotional functioning will be explored.
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PSY-250

Counseling & Spirituality

Credit Hours: 2

In this course, students will acquire knowledge about the integration of spiritual and emotional development in life. They will consider the role of spirituality in physical and mental health, and how both spiritual and emotional issues can be ethically addressed in counseling. Such topics as resilience, self-efficacy, and self-transcendence will be considered. The course will specifically examine the cultural and social justice implications of spiritually integrated counseling.
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PSY-251

Educational Psychology

Credit Hours: 4

This course will apply the principles of psychology to children and adolescents in an educational setting. Contemporary research and theory in regard to learning and instruction will be explored. Student diversity based on biological, cultural, motivational, and other sources of student variance and how to address and objectively assess these factors will be discussed. Classroom management, evaluative techniques, cognitive learning theory, conceptualizing student needs in the context of development and family and social variables will also be addressed.
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PSY-301

Seminar in History&Systems of Psychology

Credit Hours: 2

This course surveys the historical roots of the content and research methodologies of psychology. The emergence from its philosophical and physiological roots will be explored, as well as the movement into historical schools of psychology, including Structuralism, Functionalism, Gestalt, Behaviorism, Psychoanalysis, and Humanism. Contemporary research and practice of the influences of these schools will be explored. Students will study psychology as a science that has emerged within the context of an international and multicultural perspective and how these are related to past schools of psychology and contemporary research and practice. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-309

Cognitive Psychology

Credit Hours: 4

This course is a study of the major concepts, research methodology, theoretical perspectives, socio-cultural influences, and empirical findings in human cognition. Topics will include attention, learning, memory, language, and problem solving. Students will also learn about current research in judgment, decision-making, and creativity. Students will also consider the practical applications of these areas of psychology to their own personal and professional development. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-315

Psychological Tests & Measurement

Credit Hours: 4

This course is an introduction to psychological testing emphasizing the problems of objectivity, reliability, and validity. It includes a survey of the basic instruments for assessing intelligence, abilities, interests, personality, and psychopathology. Consideration is given to the statistical theory upon which tests are based. The course is taught with consideration of social justice, socio-cultural and international issues in psychological testing. Students will also consider the practical applications of this area of psychology to their own personal and professional development. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-320

Personality Theory

Credit Hours: 4

This course is a systematic examination in historical perspective of the major theories of personality, their empirical status, and their application in the field of psychopathology. Emphasis is on humanistic theories, psychoanalytic theories, trait theories and learning theories, including the work of Rogers, Allport, Maslow, Freud, Erikson, Jung, Cattell, Miller, Bandura, and Skinner. Theoretical and methodological issues facing personality theorists will also be discussed. The course is taught with consideration of sociocultural issues important to the field and students will also consider the practical applications of this area of psychology to their own personal and professional development. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-331

Biological Basis of Behavior

Credit Hours: 4

This course serves as an introduction to neural mechanisms that integrate, coordinate, and control behavior. Topics will include sensation, perception, motivation, emotion, learning, thought, and language, with an introduction to the neuropharmacology of anxiety, aggression, depression, schizophrenia, and memory. Neuropsychological assessment, forensic issues, current research and the practical applications of this area of psychology to students' personal and professional development will also be discussed. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-340

Abnormal Psychology

Credit Hours: 4

A study of the major disturbances of thought, personality, and behavior including their symptoms, etiology, and treatment. Topics include neuroses, schizophrenia, affective disorders, organic brain syndromes, childhood disorders, psychosomatic disorders, alcoholism and drug abuse, and suicide. The course is taught with consideration of social justice and sociocultural issues important to the field and students will also consider the practical applications of this area of psychology to their own personal and professional development. Prerequisites: Psy 320 and Psy 331
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PSY-390

Junior Seminar in Psychology

Credit Hours: 1

In this course students integrate their knowledge of psychology into their own career planning and development. Students will complete a variety of projects and assignments that investigate employment opportunities and options for graduate study in psychology that are compatible with their particular interests, strengths, backgrounds and culture. Students will also complete their Career Portfolio begun in the first year. Prerequisites: Psy 100 and Psy 110
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PSY-400

Seminar in MultiCultural/Gender Studies

Credit Hours: 4

This course will examine the influence of culture on psychological development and psychological functioning. The emphasis will be on theory and empirical research and how these inform our understanding of the interface of culture and psychology. Among the topics discussed will be: the concept of culture, the concept of ethnic identity, the influence of culture on our perception and definition of abnormal behavior and the treatment of psychological disorders, and the experience of individuals who have endured oppression and exploitation based on their gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, religion or physical disabilities. Students will also consider the practical applications of this area of psychology to their own personal and professional development. This course is open only to Psychology Majors and Minors. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-403

Seminar in Social Psychology

Credit Hours: 4

The focus of this course is on Human behavior and experience in a social context. Topics include social thinking, social influences, social relations, and collective behavior. Recent applications of social psychology will also be addressed with special attention to social justice and socio-cultural issues. Students will also consider the practical applications of this area of psychology to their own personal and professional development. This course is open only to Psychology and Sociology Majors and Minors. Prerequisite: Psy 100
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PSY-405

Sem International Cultural Issues in Psy

Credit Hours: 4

The course focuses on the history, status, and future directions of scientific and professional psychology throughout the world. It requires reading about, discussing, and writing about the relatively new specialty area of international psychology. This course will introduce psychology students and others to psychology around the world. In addition, the course focuses on understanding how principles of psychology can be utilized to confront and resolve global problems and conflicts. This course is open only to Psychology Majors and Minors. Prerequisite: PSY100
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PSY-490

Senior Research Seminar

Credit Hours: 2

In this course an original research study is designed and conducted by student teams. Each team will be required to formulate a meaningful hypothesis, gather and interpret data, and draw conclusions based upon the data analysis. At the end of the semester, a complete research report is submitted. Methodological issues and statistical analysis will be discussed. Prerequisites: PSY290, PSY290L, PSY295, PSY295L and Senior status.
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PSY-491

Ind Study

Credit Hours: 2

This course provides the opportunity for students to investigate an area of psychology which holds special interest for the student. Work is accomplished individually with the aid of a faculty member. Prerequisites: PSY100 and junior or senior status; approval of the course of study by the chairperson is required before registration.
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PSY-495

Internship

Credit Hours: 2

The student completes an internship at a placement site arranged by a faculty member. The student will complete an internship at sites that provide experiences that promote the application of psychological principles to the real world. Sites chosen should be those that provide experiences that promote the recognition, understanding, and respect for the complexity of socio-cultural diversity, and facilitate personal and professional growth for the student. Prerequisite: Psychology major with junior or senior status, approval of the programs internship coordinator is required before registration.
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PSY-499

Special Topics

Credit Hours: 2

An exploration of an area or special topic of current interest in psychology. The topic for any given semester will be determined by the department.
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PSY-601

Orientation to the Profession

Credit Hours: 2

Issues involving the expectation, role, and identity of the mental health professional. Topics include relationship to other professionals, ethics, legal constraints and obligations, consultation, case conceptualization, and other current issues.
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PSY-602

Foundations of School Counseling

Credit Hours: 2

This course provides an overview of the profession of school counseling, including professional roles and functions, history and trends, and the principles of school counseling.
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PSY-604

Organiz, Admin, & Consult in School Cnsl

Credit Hours: 2

This course focuses on the organization and management of comprehensive school guidance and counseling programs and introduces the student to topics relevant to successful school counseling programs such as curriculum development; program development; and consultation, coordination, and collaboration in student services in elementary, middle, and secondary schools.
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PSY-606

Early Child,Child & Adolescent Dev & Beh

Credit Hours: 3

This course will provide an overview of child and adolescent development with a focus on the educational and social implications of developmental diversity. Instructional modes will include lecture, discussion, media, research, and case studybased projects.
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PSY-615

Ethical & Legal Standards in Counseling

Credit Hours: 2

This course provides an in depth study of the ethical and legal standards of the American Counseling Association and related entities, and application of ethical and legal considerations in professional counseling.
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PSY-618

Social & Cultural Foundations of Cnsl

Credit Hours: 2

This course provides an understanding of the cultural context of relationships, issues and trends in a multicultural and diverse society related to such factors as culture, ethnicity, nationality, age, gender, sexual orientation,mental and physical characteristics, education, family values, religious and spiritual values, socioeconomic status and unique characteristics of individuals, couples, families, ethnic groups, and communities.'
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PSY-619

Psych Issues for Special Needs Populat

Credit Hours: 3

This course will address counseling strategies and interventions designed to assist school-aged children with an emphasis on special needs populations. The course is designed to help students develop skills in interviewing, effective communication and rapport building essential to the therapeutic relationship.
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PSY-620

Helping Relationship in Cnsl

Credit Hours: 3

This course provides a broad understanding of the philosophic bases of the helping processes, basic and advanced helping skills and client and helper self-understanding and self-development. Students will also learn counselor characteristics and behaviors that influence the helping processes including age, gender, and ethnic differences, verbal and nonverbal behaviors and personal characteristics, orientation and skills.
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PSY-621

Introduction to Forensic Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

This course provides an overview of the field of forensic psychology, its history and impact in today's world.The focus is on the relationship between law and psychology, the mental health system,mental illness and criminal conduct. It also focuses on discussion of the ethical and legal conflicts and dilemmas a forensic practitioner might encounter working within the legal system.Ways to resolve such conflict, including standards applicable to the science and practice of forensic psychology and the role of the expert and fact witness outside of the clinical realm, are considered.
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PSY-622

Violence And Risk Assessment

Credit Hours: 2

This course focuses on risk assessment within the context of prediction, supervision and intervention in both a correctional and mental health setting. Special topics include family, workplace and school violence assessment of various legal competencies, the insanity defense and assessment of dangerousness.
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PSY-623

Trauma & Crisis Intervention

Credit Hours: 2

This course addresses theories, research studies and assessment techniques relating to the various types of trauma such as childhood abuse, combat experience, surviving a natural disaster and exposure to life-threatening incidents (such as those likely experience by victims of crime and law enforcement and emergency services personnel). Students will be taught crisis intervention techniques concerning the treatment of traumarelated difficulties, acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorder. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-624

PsychologicalAssessmentForensicPsych I

Credit Hours: 3

This course focuses on the selection, administration, scoring and interpreting of psychological assessments and their utilization in forensic settings, with particular emphasis on assessment of neurological integrity and intellectual, cognitive and academic functioning for children, adolescents and adults.
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PSY-625

PsychologicalAssessForensicPsy II

Credit Hours: 3

This course focuses on the selection, administration, scoring and interpreting of psychological assessments and their utilization in forensic settings, with particular emphasis on assessment of personality,behavior disorders,ADHD, and psychiatric symptoms for children, adolescents and adults.
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PSY-626

Evaluation&TreatmentOfJuvenileOffenders

Credit Hours: 3

This course examines the psychological origins and dynamics of criminal behavior from the viewpoint of psychological theories and the psychological factors leading to the causes, assessment, classification and treatment of juvenile offenders. It explores psychological theories elated to the etiology, development and prediction of juvenile delinquency and types of intervention possible within the criminal justice setting.The role of the forensic specialist in the juvenile justice system will also be addressed. Prerequisite: PSY 625.
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MCPS-627

Psych Applications of Ethical Issues

Credit Hours: 2

Psychological applications of ethical issues, e.g., confidentiality and disclosure, informed consent, human rights, leadership and power, and professional ethics will be studied through case analysis, role play and simulations.
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PSY-627

Evaluation&TreatmentOfAdultOffenders

Credit Hours: 3

This course extends the examination the psychological origins and dynamics of criminal behavior from the viewpoint of psychological theories and the psychological factors leading to the causes, assessment, classification and treatment to adult offenders. It explores psychological theories elated to the etiology, development and prediction of violent crime and types of intervention possible within the criminal justice setting. Treatment of the different types of offender populations (antisocial personality, female offenders, sex offenders, offenders with developmental disabilities or those classified as retarded, etc.) within the criminal justice system will also be discussed. Prerequisite: PSY 626.
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PSY-628

Social Psychology Crime & Criminal Beh

Credit Hours: 2

This course applies social psychology knowledge in the context of cultural sensitivity to the study of crime and criminal behavior. Theories of causation and social reaction to crime and criminals will be discussed.
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PSY-630

Behavior Modification and Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

This course focuses on the principles and procedures of behavior modification for weight management. Students will develop theoretical and practical knowledge in the following areas as applied to weight management: observing and recording; recognizing instances of reinforcement extinction and punishment and their likely long-term effects; interpreting behavioral episodes relevant to weight management in terms of behavioral principles and procedures; and designing, implementing and evaluating behavior modification programs for weight management for individuals and groups. Pre-requisite: Psy 620
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MCPS-631

Psych Applications of Social Issues

Credit Hours: 2

Psychological applications of social issues, e.g., community, multiculturalism, families, life style and health issues, and service delivery systems will be studied.
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PSY-631

Research Methods & Advanced Stats Tech

Credit Hours: 3

A study of research methods used in psychology with a focus on applied, clinically-oriented research. Students will study methods of outcome assessment and program evaluation. Throughout the course, students will have experience reading and evaluating research.An original research study will also be conducted. Prerequisite: undergraduate statistics and research methods in psychology.
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PSY-633

Counseling Theory & Methods I

Credit Hours: 3

Major contemporary counseling theories and their application in a variety of counseling interventions will be studied and practiced. Focus will be on the development of basic and advanced counseling skills and procedures and refinement of the skills needed in providing counseling interventions. Prerequisites: MC 620 or PSY 620.
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PSY-634

Counseling Theory & Methods II

Credit Hours: 3

A study of counseling as a formof professional assistance in problems of development and adjustment. Provides the basic skills necessary for effective interaction and communication in a variety of situations,with the emphasis on individual counseling. Includes practical experiences such as role playing,audiotaping, and videotaping, critiquing, and test interpretation. Research on the effectiveness of techniques andmodels of counseling will be emphasized.Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-635

Assessment & Evaluation In Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

This course will be taken for 4 credits for students in themental health counseling specialty and 3 credits for students in the school counseling and student affairs specialty.A comprehensive survey of individual and group approaches to assessment,evaluation,and measurement as they apply to counseling.Discussion of historical perspectives, theoretical bases of assessment, standardized and non-standardized assessment, concepts of statisticalmeasurement, reliability and validity,assessment of special populations, andmulticultural issues, and ethical and legal guidelines. Additionally,didactic knowledge of practical experience in selecting, administering,and interpreting assessment tools that measure intelligence,psychological health and pathology,personality, career options, and academic achievement.
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PSY-636

Personality Assessment

Credit Hours: 3

Principles of measurement and assessment of personality. Counseling use of a variety of assessment instruments regarding personality functioning, both normal and abnormal. Projective and objective measures of personality will be studied. Prerequisites: PSY 635.
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PSY-637

Group Dynamics & Interpersonal Comm

Credit Hours: 3

A critical examination of the processes operating in various types of groups. Emphasis on social and psychological principles relevant to individuals in groups, and on developing effective group consultation skills. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-639

Human Growth & Personality Development

Credit Hours: 3

A comprehensive review of theories andmethodologies in developmental psychology.Topics include changes that occur with age in cognition and perception,but emphasis is placed on social and personality development. Models of social and personality development are critically discussed in light of their research support and application to counseling.
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PSY-641

Psychopathology & Diagnosis

Credit Hours: 3

An examination of abnormal behavior, including an introduction to the etiology,diagnosis, and treatment of psychological dysfunctioning. This course will be an in-depth analysis of psychopathologies as they relate to the use of current diagnostic systems as a formulation for classification of disorders and choice of appropriate treatment. The student will acquire a working knowledge of the DSM, including itsmultiaxial classification system, and will develop the ability to diagnose the variousmental disorders on the basis of a comprehensive diagnostic interview. No prerequisite required.
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PSY-642

Treatment Planning

Credit Hours: 2

Building on the knowledge developed in psychopathology and diagnosis, this course provides students the ability to conceptualize client presentation and select appropriate counseling interventions.Skills taught involve establishing appropriate counseling goals,designing intervention strategies,evaluating client outcome, and successfully terminating the counselor-client relationship. Prerequisite: PSY 641.
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PSY-643

Career Dev & Occupational Opportunities

Credit Hours: 3

An examination of the theories,processes, and determinants of vocational choice and adjustment. Life stages and career patterns in personal and vocational development will be explored. Occupational structure and trends; job and worker analysis;occupational classifications; sources of occupational and educational information for use in guidance, counseling, personnel selection, and career development programs will be discussed. Prerequisite: PSY 635.
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PSY-645

Family & Marriage Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

This course will focus on a theory and practice approach, viewing the couple or family as a unitary psychosocial system, focusing on general functioning,dysfunction,and intervention. In contrast to viewing individuals as the locus of a problem, the relationship is seen as a unitary systemwhere harmony and difficulty depend on characteristics of the unit as a whole. Major areas covered include history, theory,practicemodels, and intervention techniques. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-647

Counseling of the Aged

Credit Hours: 3

This course will develop an understanding of the physical and psychological changes associated with aging. Factors associated with lifestyle changes for the aged will be considered with a focus on how to help individuals and families cope with successful aging. Provides the helping professional with specific counseling skills required for working with the aged. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-649

Health & Wellness Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

The purpose of this course is to examine the physical,mental, emotional and social issues relative to health and wellness. Survey of counseling techniques through case study analysis involving a holistic approach to developing a personal,healthy life style. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-651

Substance Abuse Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

This course is a survey of counseling interventionmodels with substance-abusing clients including treatment approaches and philosophies, individual,group, family, therapeutic communities, Alcoholics Anonymous, residential treatment,outpatient approaches and comparative theories. The course is designed to assist students in identifying and becoming familiar with current counseling approaches and interventionmodels in chemical dependency treatment; to assist the development of the counselor to distinguish between approaches, and to determine treatment selections for various case situations. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-653

Multicultural Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

This course will focus on the role of culture in counseling and the skills necessary for counselors to work effectively in our contemporary, culturally pluralistic world. Students will study issues and concepts of cross-cultural counseling common tomost culturally different groups in the United States, as well as study guidelines andmethods for counseling specificminority groups. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-655

Women in Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

Course will examine the special needs of women in counseling/ therapy both in theory and practice while evaluating traditional and feminist strategies and/or theories of application. Issues to be explored from both an individual and group perspective include: rape and date rape, domestic violence, hormonal changes and development, confronting life-threatening illness, assertiveness and communication in relationships, work and mothering as well as other current concerns in the ever changing development of women's lives. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-657

Human Sexuality

Credit Hours: 3

Examination of human sexuality from three perspectives: physiological, clinical and social. The impact of health and social issues related to human sexuality in health and illnesses are presented. Clinical techniques and therapeutic tools, research on outcome, special clinical problems as well as theoretical parameters on sexual functioning and marital relationship will be discussed. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-659

Counseling Children & Adolescents

Credit Hours: 3

This course will address the disorders and difficulties of children and adolescents and the treatment of these disorders. The course will include the process, theories, techniques and materials used in counseling children and adolescents. Individual, group and family intervention techniques will be emphasized as well as legal and ethical considerations. Strategies presented can be used in a variety of settings. Multicultural considerations are addressed. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-660

Counseling & Spirituality

Credit Hours: 3

This course will introduce the major theories, methods, thinkers, and trends in the field of religion as they pertain to counseling. The first part of the course will concentrate on the theoretical and research areas of the field, with a specific focus on the role of spirituality in physical and mental health. The second part will focus on the integration of spirituality in the therapeutic context, covering such topics as conduction of a genogram with respect to spirituality and ways of incorporating spirituality into treatment planning. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-662

Bereavement Counseling

Credit Hours: 3

This course will include a presentation of bereavement counseling, interventions that are appropriate for special populations and atypical losses (for example suicide). Students will be encouraged to examine their own attitudes toward loss and history of personal issues. Prerequisite: PSY 633.
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PSY-663

Sports Psychology

Credit Hours: 3

This course will provide an overview of counseling issues for athletes, teams, and performance enthusiasts. Students will study issues and concepts related to motivation, stress management, and performance enhancement. Issues associated with career transitions and athletes are discussed. The course examines the physical,mental, emotional, and social issues relative to exercise performance as a component of a healthy lifestyle and provides additional understanding of behavior change strategies that foster the development of a healthy lifestyle. Prerequisite: None.
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PSY-671

Counseling Theory & Methods III- Practic

Credit Hours: 3

Closely supervised therapeutic counseling with individuals, translation of theory into practice, clinical and professional techniques and issues. Students must complete the practicum application form prior to registration for the practicum. Prerequisites: Vary by program. Pass/No Credit.
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PSY-675

Community Agencies & Resources

Credit Hours: 3

This course provides an orientation to the resources and services available in schools, clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation and employment settings and other public and private agencies serving psychologically and physically disabled individuals and their families. Instructional modes will include discussion, research and field-based projects.
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PSY-680

Intro to Student Affairs in Higher Educ

Credit Hours: 3

This course provides an in-depth introduction to the profession of student affairs and the division's importance in Higher Education Administration. The historical and philosophical development of the Student Affairs Profession will be explored and discussed. Major topics include an in-depth study of the departments that typically constitute the Division of Student Affairs. This includes history, function, trends, issues and significant personnel. Class will be presented in seminar form.
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PSY-682

American College Student

Credit Hours: 3

This course provides an overview of the nature of the American college student population, trends in matriculation, demographic, economic, and social variables relating to matriculation and the impact that the college experience has on students. The characteristics of the contemporary American college student will be examined. Major topics will include an examination of the motivations for entering institutions of higher education, developmental theory related to college students, demographic data that describes the contemporary student, problems and challenges specific to the American concept of making higher education accessible to a large percentage of the population, ant the impact of contemporary economic and social trends on the college population.
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PSY-683

Special Topics

Credit Hours: 3

An in-depth exploration of a specific topic that is of current interest to graduate students in psychology.Approval of the Program Director is required to register.
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PSY-685

Independent Study

Credit Hours: 3

Independent study, research or practice in areas relative to the field of counseling psychology.
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PSY-691

Counseling Theory & Methods IV

Credit Hours: 3

The field experience is designed to provide students with practical experience in an applied setting under the supervision of qualified mental health professionals. This will involve the application of theory to counseling psychology practice with individuals, groups, families, children, or adolescents in an approved agency setting. Students must complete the field experience application form prior to registration. Prerequisite: PSY 671.Pass/No Credit.
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PSY-693

Counseling Theory & Methods V

Credit Hours: 3

The field experience is designed to provide students with practical experience in an applied setting under the supervision of qualified mental health professionals. This will involve the application of theory to counseling psychology practice with individuals, groups, families, children, or adolescents in an approved agency setting. Students must complete the field experience application form prior to registration. Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in PSY 691. Pass/No Credit.
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PSY-695

Professional Portfolio

Credit Hours: 0

Advisement regarding organization, developing a'theme', writing and presenting the professional portfolio.
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PSY-697

Culminating Requirem

Credit Hours: 0


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PSY-699

Thesis

Credit Hours: 3


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