Psychology (PSYC) Courses
PSYC1001 Introductory Psychology
Introductory Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Ethical application of the scientific method is used to examine nervous system structures and functions, learning, memory, intelligence and states of consciousness.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC1011 Metacognition and Learning Strategies
This course is a segment of the 10-month Wildcat Learning Effectiveness in Action Program (LEAP). The course provides LEAP learners with an applied, experiential exploration of metacognitive-based learning-strategy skill sets intended to enhance their self-efficacy as students and global citizens. Through an evidence-based practice, active learning design, LEAP students are introduced to, explore, and practice learning strategies focused on these core areas: metacognition, executive function, self-regulation, developing engaged-student, pro-active behaviors, focus, working memory, critical thinking and reasoning. These skills and schemas are acquired through an emphasis on the practice of techniques intended to enhance understanding via experiential engagement and reflective learning.
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into Wildcat LEAP.
Offered at Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC1020 Introduction to Professional Issues and Ethics in Psychology
This course explores the identity, professional values and diverse work settings in the field of psychology. Students learn about the scope of the broad field of psychology, as well as a variety of sub-disciplines. Fundamental skills for psychology students, such as scientific literacy and critical thinking, are explored, enabling students to critically evaluate research in the social sciences. Students also learn about ethical behavior, as well as examine critical historical events, contributors and landmark studies that shaped the field of psychology. The course illustrates the various roles that psychology plays in the understanding and shaping of modern society.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC2002 Abnormal Psychology
This course examines the major theoretical approaches to psychological and other behavior disorders. Included are definitional criteria, causes, prevalence, related conditions and current treatment programs for both children and adults. Emphasis is placed on the sociocultural context of psychological disorders as well as on correcting common stereotypes about mental and emotional illness.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC2015 Human Sexuality
This course is an exploration of human sexuality from a biological, psychological and socio-cultural perspective. It examines major theoretical perspectives that influence the scientific study of sexuality. Critical issues discussed include but are not limited to sexual identity and gender, sexuality and relationships, contemporary and cross-cultural views on human sexuality, rape and sexual exploitation and sexuality across the lifespan.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC2020 Industrial/Organizational Psychology
This course emphasizes the psychological principles involved in group performance, power, leadership styles and behavioral motivation. It includes discussion and analysis of organizational research and the application of the results to businesses and industrial situations. It is designed to assist the business student in incorporating psychological knowledge into his or her managerial and leadership style in order to increase on-the-job productivity.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC2030 Developmental Psychology
This survey course is designed to introduce the student to the concepts, theories and recent research in the area of human life span from conception to late adulthood. The integrative process of physical cognitive and psychosexual development during significant periods of maturation is examined.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC2040 Psychological Issues of Substance Use Disorders and Compulsive Behaviors
This course examines the various types of substance use disorders and accompanying compulsive behaviors and symptomology related to these disorders. It focuses on problems related to the addictive process. Topics include but are not limited to compulsive gambling, alcohol and other substance use disorders, paraphilias, eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. Relevant topics such as the addictive process and personality are addressed along with familial effects and psychosocial impact on all. Various treatment approaches and methods of recovery are discussed. Methods of awareness, identification and distinction between various compulsive disorders and substance use disorders and substance-induced disorders along with the biopsychosocial model of addiction are delineated.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC2100 Health Psychology
This course examines the impact of psychological and behavioral factors on individual health and wellness. The application of theory in understanding and designing health education materials, behavioral interventions, prevention strategies, and improving access to health systems is emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3001 Social Psychology
This course features a study of individual behavior in relation to the social stimuli of modern life. The course involves the extension of general psychological principles and methods in the study of social behavior.
Prerequisite(s): ENG1021 or ENG1027, PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3010 Personality
This course is a study of various personality theories in the context of psycho-philosophical differences in personality. Personality development, assessment methods, theoretical application, integration and critical evaluation of each theory are analyzed. Application of theory to actual and hypothetical cases is expected throughout the course.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3040 Introduction to Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology
This course considers the function and dysfunction of the human central nervous system with respect to higher order cognition and behavior. This course surveys the neuroanatomical, neuropathological, neurocognitive and neurobehavioral aspects of the brain, and provides an introduction to the psychopharmacological aspects of treatment in mental health counseling.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC2002, (SCI1015 or SCI1050 or SCI2031).
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3100 Community Psychology
This course examines the historical and theoretical perspectives of community psychology: the interrelationship between individuals and the various family, friendship, neighborhood, work, and community systems in which they live. Using a scientific approach, key areas of focus include the application of psychological principles to understand and address social issues, engage in collaborative problem solving, and promote community development.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3200 Cognitive Psychology
This course examines the primary cognitive processes of attention, perception, and memory as the foundation for higher order thinking. Students examine and discuss early and current theories and methodologies in cognitive science and explain how primary cognitive processes lead to complex thought. A key component of course work includes conducting a literature review on an assigned or selected topic.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3350 Psychology of Motivation and Leadership in the Workplace
This course examines current research and theories for motivation at work and how they affect the achievement of organizational goals and objectives. A chronological review of the field is included, as well as discussions around such topics as the importance of money, the relationship between job satisfaction and job performance, and the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. A focus on understanding theories of leadership and their roles in creating and maintaining a psychologically healthy workplace is emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC3420 Criminalization of Mental Illness
This course examines the intersection of the psychiatric and penal systems in the United States. It examines the historical movements that served to locate the mentally ill within the criminal justice system. The moving of the mentally ill into prisons intended for criminal populations continues to be a significant concern in American society today. Particular attention is paid to the role of race and ethnicity, class, gender, and the Prison Industrial Complex that provide frameworks for understanding the social and psychological implications of this co-mingling of institutions, especially in their consequences for marginalized communities. Paying particular attention to the constitutional and global human rights concerning these imprisoned populations, this course explores the possibilities and opportunities for social and political change.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC4150 Psychology of Conflict Resolution
This course explores the definition, causes and methods used for resolution of conflicts. Causes for conflicts such as communication, beliefs and values, and lack of trust are discussed, as well as the approaches toward resolution of conflicts, such as the adversarial and non-adversarial approaches. Advantages and limitations are identified for each method.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC4200 Cultural Psychology
This course offers knowledge, practice and application of the principles of Cultural Psychology. It examines the major theorists in this field and the application of their theories to human behaviors and interactions. It critically examines cultural psychological theories in both traditional western and non-western psychological models. Accordingly, the course elucidates the particular research methods that are specific to the study of psychology and culture. By examining the developmental processes of cultural identity, the course demonstrates the necessity of cultural psychology as a specific domain of inquiry. In addition, the course examines the divergent frameworks for understanding abnormal behavior and mental illness, as well as mental health and wellness, in a cultural setting. Finally, the course focuses on application and analysis of the themes of cultural psychology for their use in specific work situations and in our global world today.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC1001, junior status.
Offered at Charlotte, Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC5200 Advanced Neuroscience and Psychopharmacology
This course is an in-depth investigation into the principles of psychopharmacology from a clinical case perspective. Principles of action, efficacy, and safety of psychotropic drugs in treating psychiatric and behavioral disorders are focal points. An inquiry into the etiology and diagnosis of major mental disorders is examined. Emphasis is on modification of baseline neurotransmitter systems by current treatment protocols and medications under development.
Offered at Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC5400 Organizational Psychology
This course provides the foundation for student’s work in organizational psychology as the scientific study of how human behavior and attitudes are impacted by organizational culture and design. Topics covered within this course include individual attitudes, motivation, group dynamics, organizational culture and sociocultural influences on organizational climate.
Offered at Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits
PSYC5450 Attitude and Motivation in the Workplace
This course examines the nature and importance of attitude and its integral connections to employee motivations. Employee attitude is often overlooked and undervalued as a workplace factor that can impact the degree of success experienced in today’s organizations. Attitude can significantly influence the motivational levels of individual employees, workplace teams and entire operational units, resulting in dramatic changes to an institution’s overall efficiency and effectiveness. Strategies for identifying and fostering positive attitudes that promote organizational health, growth and sustainability are discussed.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC5400.
Offered at Online, Providence
3 Semester Credits