College of Arts & Sciences
Behavioral and Social Sciences
Majors and Degrees Offered
- Anthropology (B.A.)
- Legal Studies (B.A.)
- Psychology (B.A.)*
- Social Science (B.A.)*
- Sociology (B.A.)*
*Also offered at the international campuses.
Minors Offered
- Anthropology (18 credit hours in anthropology)
- Psychology (18 credit hours in psychology)*
- Sociology (18 credit hours in sociology)*
*Also offered at the international campuses.
Note: All courses for a minor must be completed at Webster University. Courses completed with a grade below a C- do not count toward fulfilling the requirements for a minor in anthropology, psychology, or sociology. Courses used to fulfill a major may not be used to fulfill a requirement for a minor.
Certificates Offered
- Paralegal Studies (offered in St. Louis and Kansas City)
Departmental Philosophy and Mission
The Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences includes the disciplines of anthropology, legal studies, psychology, and sociology. Students can choose from the following majors: anthropology, legal studies, psychology, sociology, and social science.
Minors also can be declared in anthropology, psychology, and sociology. The department also offers a certificate in paralegal studies.
Throughout history, human groups have employed a variety of methods to deal with the complexities of social life, social order, and social change. Study within the department provides students with the abilities to examine, interpret, and evaluate the diversity of human experience and stresses an understanding of the issues facing members of the "global village." Courses are designed to contribute to a general liberal arts education as well as to prepare students for meeting their goals in careers and/or graduate training programs.
The faculty assist students in:
- developing analytical skills;
- integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience; and
- building competencies for specific career objectives or specific areas of interest.
The faculty present a variety of theoretical models and analytical frameworks to assist students in this process.
Special Study Opportunities
Students may choose predominantly traditional coursework or a combination of traditional courses and activities, such as supervised practica, independent studies, and supervised reading courses. Other options include independent investigation of specific practical or theoretical issues or study at Webster University's international campuses.
The faculty believe such experiences play an important role in the educational development of the individual and lend credence to the philosophy of the department.
Departmental Academic Advising
Early in a departmental advisee's residence, a departmental faculty advisor is assigned to help assess and plan the student's program of study, focusing on the student's specific academic and career goals. This has been necessitated by the remarkable diversity of activities for which students are preparing themselves. Some students are seeking careers in teaching, social service, museums, historical societies, nonprofit organizational settings, or corporations, while others are preparing for admission to graduate and professional training programs.
Pre-Law at Webster University
A career objective for many undergraduate students is law school. Generally speaking, law schools look for broadly educated individuals who can think, speak, and write with precision and clarity. Webster University provides a variety of majors and courses that interest and challenge students while preparing them for admission and success in law school. Webster encourages pre-law students to choose a major based on their own interests and abilities. Then, in consultation with a departmental academic advisor, pre-law students will design a course of study that reflects the recommendations for pre-legal education developed by the Association of American Law Schools. The association's policy statement recommends an undergraduate education that emphasizes the following:
- Communication skills--comprehension, writing, and speaking
- Critical understanding of human institutions and values with which the law deals
- Creative and critical thinking
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Anthropology
Degree Requirements
42 required credit hours
27 general education credit hours
59 elective credit hours
Courses in anthropology and sociology (ANSO) are designed to help students develop a multicultural understanding of the human experience and the analytical skills necessary for critically evaluating the diversity of human belief systems.
A minimum of 42 credit hours must be selected from within anthropology/sociology. At least 15 credit hours must be in 3000-4000 level courses.
Learning Goals for the Anthropology program:
Upon completion of the program, students should:
- Understand the interrelationship of the subfields of anthropology (cultural, biological, linguistic and archaeological) as well as an understanding of the ways applied anthropology functions in each.
- Be able to evaluate the assumptions, purposes and methods of anthropological fieldwork and research.
- Grasp the centrality of culture in the human experience and be able to apply this understanding to a range of social problems such as class and stratification, ethnicity and nationalism and the unequal access to social resources that emerge from these systems.
- Be able to distinguish individual, social and cultural frames of analysis through the use of social and anthropological theory.
- Have developed a multicultural and cross-cultural perspective of our world, including an awareness of the factors contributing to diversity and inequality within and among nations.
Students are required to take the following courses:
- ANSO 1070 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology 3 hours
- ANSO 1080 Human Evolution 3 hours
- ANSO 3550 Theories of Social Science 3 hours
- ANSO 4900 Senior Seminar 3 hours
One course from the following:
- ANSO 2825 Introduction to Research Methods 3 hours
- ANSO 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics 3 hours
Two courses from the following:
- ANSO 2100 People and Cultures 3 hours
- ANSO 3250 Applied Anthropology 3 hours
- ANSO 3900 Family and Kinship 3 hours
- ANSO 4275 Gender and Sex Roles 3 hours
Within required and elective courses, a minimum of 15 credit hours must be in 3000-4000 level courses.
Special Requirements
No more than 6 credit hours obtained in practica, independent learning experiences, reading courses, and assessment of prior learning may be applied toward the 42 credit hours required for a major.
Current Webster students should petition for admission to the department on completion of no more than 45 credit hours of academic work. Transfer students are urged to petition for admission to the department at the time of acceptance to the University. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 24 approved credit hours of academic work at Webster within the major. These courses may be included as part of the residency requirement.
Courses completed with a grade below a C- do not count toward fulfilling the specific course requirements of the major.
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Legal Studies
Degree Requirements
45 required credit hours
27 general education credit hours
56 elective credit hours
The coursework in legal studies is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the legal environment in which individuals, businesses, and the judiciary operate. Because most of the professors are practicing attorneys, prosecutors, public defenders, and paralegals, this gives the student the distinct advantage of the latest legal theory and real world practice.
Learning Goals for the Legal Studies Program:
Upon completion of the program, students should:
- Understand the fundamentals of legal reasoning and analysis.
- Have gained insight into some of the ethical dilemmas faced by lawyers and legal assistants.
- Master the skills and knowledge necessary for understanding legal issues working from both theoretical and practical applications.
- Have learned the essential goals of legal researching, legal and logical reasoning, and begun to develop legal writing skills.
- Be able to apply the theory of legal research and writing to practical problems encountered in a legal environment.
- Have gained insight into the significant role that legal assistants have in the legal world and the practical skills necessary to function in it.
Students are required to complete 45 credit hours including LEGL 4620 Overview. The 45 credit hours, at least 18 of which must be taken at Webster University, must include the following:
Law --30 credit hours including:
- POLT 3010 American Constitutional Law or POLT 3020 Civil Liberties
and the Law
(no substitutions permitted) 3 hours - LEGL 2080 Topics in Law or INTL 2030 International Law 3 hours
- LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400 Introduction to Law 3 hours
- LEGL 3000 Legal Ethics 3 hours
- LEGL 4100 Advanced Paralegal Procedures 3 hours
- LEGL 4460 Methods of Legal Research and Writing I 3 hours
- LEGL 4470 Methods of Legal Research and Writing II 3 hours
- LEGL 4480 Computerized Legal Research 3 hours
- LEGL 4800 Advanced Topics in Law 6 hours
Additional courses --15 credit hours including:
- INTL 1500 The World System Since 1500 3-4 hours
- POLT 1060 Introduction to American Politics 3 hours
- POLT 1070 Introduction to Political Theory
or HIST 3000 Ideas in History: History of Economic Thought 3 hours - HIST 1320 Twentieth-Century United States 3 hours
The following may be substituted:
- HIST 1010 (with U.S. survey subtitle) 3 hours
- HIST 1300 Revolutionary America 3 hours
- HIST 1310 Nineteenth-Century America 3 hours
- LEGL 4620 Overview 3 hours
Note: A legal assistant or paralegal is a person, qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible. For the purposes of the guidelines, the terms "legal assistant" and "paralegal"are used interchangeably. Therefore, paralegals are prohibited from practicing law. Webster University's St. Louis area paralegal programs have been approved by the American Bar Association. The Kansas City program has not applied for and, therefore, is not currenlty approved by the American Bar Association.
Special Requirements
Courses completed with a grade below a C- do not count toward fulfilling the specific course requirements of the major.
Transfer students must complete 18 credit hours of American Bar Association (ABA) required courses in residence at Webster University. These courses include the following:
- LEGL 3000 3 hours
- LEGL 4100 3 hours
- LEGL 4470 3 hours
- LEGL 4480 3 hours
- LEGL 4800 6 hours
All other coursework for the Legal Studies major may be transferred in, only at the discretion of the Legal Studies Program. Approval for these transfer credits must come from Legal Studies advisors.
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Certificate Program: Paralegal Studies
(24 required credit hours)
The certificate program in paralegal studies is designed to provide the theoretical and practical education needed by those who work or desire to work as paralegals or legal assistants. Webster University will issue a certificate recognizing the successful completion (C- or better) of a 24-credit-hour core in paralegal studies. All core courses must be taken at Webster University. Since core courses are generally taught at the advanced level, students must have earned at least 84 credit hours, including the 24-credit-hour core in paralegal studies, before a certificate can be issued. Webster University's St. Louis area paralegal programs are approved by the American Bar Association.
Requirements
LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400 Introduction to Law 3
hours
LEGL
3000 Legal Ethics 3 hours
LEGL 3490 Litigation 3
hours
LEGL 4460, 4470 Methods of
Legal Research and Writing I, II 6
hours
LEGL 4480 Computerized
Legal Research 3 hours
LEGL 4800
Advanced Topics in Law 6 hours
Note: A legal assistant or paralegal is a person, qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible. For the purposes of the guidelines, the terms "legal assistant" and "paralegal" are used interchangeably. Therefore, paralegals are prohibited from practicing law. Webster University's St. Louis area paralegal programs have been approved by the American Bar Association. The Kansas City program has not applied for and, therefore, is not currently approved by the American Bar Association.
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Psychology
Degree Requirements
42 required credit hours
27 general education credit hours
59 elective credit hours
Courses in psychology (PSYC) are designed to provide the student with an understanding of the complexity and diversity of human behavior and the context for understanding the behavior of the individual.
Learning Goals for the Psychology Program:
The student learning outcomes for psychology majors are those established by the American Psychological Association for undergraduate education in psychology. The learning outcomes are broadly divided into two main categories, which are as follows:
1. Students will develop knowledge, skills, and values consistent with the science and application of psychology. Upon completion of the program, students should:
- Be able to demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
- Understand and apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Show respect for and use of critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and, when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes.
- Understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
- Be able to weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect other values that are the underpinnings of psychology as a discipline
2. Students will demonstrate knowledge, skills, and values consistent with liberal arts education that are further developed in psychology. Upon completion of the program, students should:
- Be able to demonstrate information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes.
- Be able to communicate effectively in a variety of formats.
- Recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural and international diversity.
- Have developed insight into their own and others' behavior and mental processes and be able to apply effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement.
- Have realistic ideas about how to implement their psychological knowledge, skills, and values in occupational pursuits in a variety of settings.
A minimum of 42 credit hours must be selected from psychology. Within
the total credit hours students are required to complete the following:
PSYC
1100 Introduction to Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 2750
Introduction to Measurement and Statistics 3
hours
PSYC 2825 Introduction to Research Methods 3 hours
PSYC
3550 History, Philosophy, and Systems of Psychology 3
hours
PSYC 4900 Senior Seminar 3 hours
In addition, one course must be completed from four of the following six content areas.
Biological and Evolutionary Perspectives: The roles
of biological processes, structures, and inherited tendencies in explaining
human behavior.
PSYC 4300 Health Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 4400 Human Sexuality 3 hours
PSYC 4550 Drug and Chemical Dependency 3 hours
PSYC 4650 Physiological Psychology 3 hours
Clinical and Counseling Perspectives: The diagnosis
and treatment of mental, behavioral disorders, and adjustment problems.
PSYC
3125 Abnormal Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 3775 Personality
Theory 3 hours
PSYC 3900 Introduction
to Counseling 3 hours
Lifespan Development Perspectives: Examination of
how individuals grow, develop, and change throughout the lifespan.
PSYC
2200 Child Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 2250 Adolescent
Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 2300 Human
Development 3 hours
PSYC 2950 Psychology
of Adulthood and Aging 3 hours
Learning and Cognitive Perspectives: Examination
of the mental processes and environmental situations that underlie,
shape, and control behavior.
PSYC 3325 Psychology of Learning Processes 3
hours
PSYC
3350 Cognitive Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 3375 Behavioral
Management 3 hours
PSYC 3725 Psychology
of Judgment and Decision Making 3 hours
Social and Cross-Cultural Perspectives: The roles
of social and cultural influences on behavior.
PSYC 3575 Organizational Behavior 3 hours
PSYC 3600 Social
Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 4350 Cross-Cultural and International Psychology 3
hours
Advanced Research Methods: Advanced analysis of statistical
techniques, research methodology, and psychological testing.
PSYC 3800
Experimental Psychology 3 hours
PSYC 4700 Psychological Tests and Measurements 3 hours
PSYC 4750 Advanced Statistics 3
hours
PSYC 4825 Advanced Research Methods 3
hours
Special Requirements
No more than 6 credit hours obtained in practica, independent learning experiences, reading courses, and assessment of prior learning may be applied toward the 42 credit hours required for a major.
Current Webster students should petition for admission to the department on completion of no more than 45 credit hours of academic work. Transfer students are urged to petition for admission to the department at the time of acceptance to the University. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 24 approved credit hours of academic work at Webster within the major. These courses may be included as part of the residency requirement.
Courses completed with a grade below a C- do not count toward fulfilling the specific course requirements of the major.
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Social Science
Degree Requirements
51 required credit hours
27 general education credit hours
50 elective credit hours
The social science major is interdisciplinary and provides breadth of knowledge through coursework in anthropology, legal studies, psychology, and sociology. It also offers depth by giving students the opportunity to select core courses from one of these social science areas.
A minimum of 51 credit hours should be selected from within anthropology/sociology/psychology. A minimum of 21 credit hours must be in 3000-4000 level courses.
Learning Goals for the Social Science Program:
Upon completion of the program, students should:
- · Have developed critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills in order to understand and make decisions regarding social and political issues.
- · Understand the use of interdisciplinary approaches to study, research, and analysis of social phenomena, and how those various approaches contribute to the different perspectives of social reality and methods of addressing social issues.
- · Be able to demonstrate effective written and verbal communication of social science concepts, terminology, research analyses, and conclusions.
- · Be able to formulate an integrated analysis of social issues and/or social reality by synthesizing concepts and research methods from the different social science disciplines that relate to the particular social reality or social issue under investigation.
Students are required to take the following courses:
ANSO 1010 Introduction
to Sociology 3
hours
PSYC 1100 Introduction to Psychology 3
hours
ANSO 1070 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology 3
hours
ANSO 4900 Senior Seminar or PSYC 4900 Senior Seminar 3
hours
One course from the following:
ANSO/PSYC 2750 Introduction to Measurement
and Statistics 3
hours
ANSO/PSYC 2825 Introduction to Research Methods 3
hours
One course from the following:
ANSO 3550 Theories of Social Science 3
hours
PSYC 3550
History, Philosophy, and Systems of Psychology 3
hours
Within required and elective courses, a minimum of 21 credit hours must be in 3000-4000 level courses.
Special Requirements
No more than 6 credit hours obtained in practica, independent learning experiences, reading courses, and assessment of prior learning may be applied toward the 51 credit hours required for a major.
Current Webster students should petition for admission to the department on completion of no more than 51 credit hours of academic work. Transfer students are urged to petition for admission to the department at the time of acceptance to the University. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 33 approved credit hours of academic work at Webster within the major. These courses may be included as part of the residency requirement.
Courses completed with a grade below a C- do not count toward fulfilling the specific course requirements of the major.
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Sociology
Degree Requirements
42 required credit hours
27 general education credit hours
59 elective credit hours
Courses in anthropology and sociology (ANSO) are designed to help students develop a multicultural understanding of the human experience and the analytical skills necessary for critically evaluating the diversity of human belief systems.
Learning Goals for the Sociology program:
Upon completion of the program, students should:
- Be able to apply the sociological imagination to trace the links between individual experiences and social forces, and to grasp the ways history interacts with both experience and social factors.
- Understand substantive issues, including how culture and social structures operate, the reciprocal relationships between individuals and society, and the impact of social institution and social inequality on society.
- Be able to evaluate the assumptions, purposes and methods of sociological methods and research.
- Have an awareness of social and sociological theories and be able to discuss and apply basic theoretical orientations of the discipline.
- Be able to distinguish individual, social and cultural frames of analysis and micro and macro levels of analysis through the use of social theory.
- Have developed a multicultural and cross-cultural perspective of our world, including an awareness of the factors contributing to diversity and inequality within and among nations.
A minimum of 42 credit hours must be selected from within anthropology/sociology. At least 15 credit hours must be must be in 3000-4000 level courses.
Students are required to take the following courses:
ANSO 1010 Introduction
to Sociology 3
hours
ANSO 1020 Social Issues 3
hours
ANSO 3550 Theories of Social Science 3
hours
ANSO 4900 Senior Seminar 3
hours
One course from the following:
ANSO 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics 3
hours
ANSO 2825 Introduction to Research Methods 3
hours
Two courses from the following:
ANSO 2560 Social Movements 3
hours
ANSO 3960 Ethnic and Minority Relations 3
hours
ANSO 4200 Class, Status, and Power 3
hours
ANSO 4275 Gender and Sex Roles 3
hours
Within required and elective courses, a minimum of 15 credit hours must be in 3000-4000 level courses.
Special Requirements
No more than 6 credit hours obtained in practica, independent learning experiences, reading courses, and assessment of prior learning may be applied toward the 42 credit hours required for a major.
Current Webster students should petition for admission to the department on completion of no more than 45 credit hours of academic work. Transfer students are urged to petition for admission to the department at the time of acceptance to the University. Transfer students must complete a minimum of 24 approved credit hours of academic work at Webster within the major. These courses may be included as part of the residency requirement.
Courses completed with a grade below a C- do not count toward fulfilling the specific course requirements of the major.
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Anthropology/Sociology Course Listings
ANSO 1010 Introduction to Sociology (3)
Intended primarily for students who wish to gain a broad, general overview of the field, its area of study, methods of inquiry, and conceptions and analysis of society.
ANSO 1020 Social Issues (3)
Intended mainly for students who wish to explore the field by concentrating on specific issues within American society.
ANSO 1070 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (3)
Explores the concepts of culture, universals and diversities of humanity, transmission of culture, and the role of the anthropologist in modern society.
ANSO 1080 Human Evolution (3)
Explores the evolution of humanity and culture: concepts and mechanisms of evolution, Homo sapiens' place among the primates, and human variation.
ANSO 1090 Topics in Geography (1-4)
Acquaints the student with contemporary and classic issues in geography. Offerings range from the study of demography to the evolution of humanity and culture. Intended for majors and non-majors, including students in teacher education programs. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 2000 Issues in Contemporary Society (1-4)
Acquaints the student with the various social and cultural issues of contemporary societies. Centers around concerns of living in industrialized urban societies. Compares complex societies to gain an understanding of issues that confront their members. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 2030 Culture and Communication (3)
Begins with the concept of culture as a means of communicating with others, not only language but with manners, etiquette, dress, rituals and ceremonials, gesture and movement--the entire system of symbols and signs that provide meaning for human behavior. Explores a variety of issues in cross-cultural communication, language use, and symbolic systems.
ANSO 2040 North American Indians: Pre-Columbian to 1870 (3)
Examines the diversity of North American Indians prior to European colonization, the varied adaptations to their ecological setting, the associated economic, religious, and political structures as well as their connections and relationships with other populations and the varied responses to European incursions. It is highly recommended that this class be followed with ANSO 2050.
ANSO 2050 North American Indians: 1870 to the Present (3)
Examines the consequences of the U.S. government policies which transformed the American Indian populations from autonomous peoples to ones of relocation and dependency. Begins with the establishment of the reservation system and the intense acculturation policies of the U.S. government. The class will emphasize the subsequent economic, political, legal, and religious responses to regain autonomy. It is highly recommended that this class be preceded by ANSO 2040.
ANSO 2100 Peoples and Cultures (3)
An introduction to ways in which diverse cultures or specific geographic regions respond to some of the stress points of the contemporary world. Issues we will examine include: violence and warfare, ethnic conflicts, environmental degradation, economic inequalities, cultural imperialism and social change, human rights and the role of governments, and the many conflicts between "traditional" values and modernity. The course is designed to broaden the student's understanding of the processes taking place in the contemporary world, utilizing the lenses provided by social sciences. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 2375 Deviant Behavior (3)
An overview of concepts, issues, and research findings in the study of deviant behavior. We will examine the various theories that provide explanations of the nature, causes, and control of deviance as a social phenomenon. Application of theories to specific substantive areas, such as mental disorder, delinquency, drug, suicide, unconventional sexuality, and physical disability will be examined. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070 or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 2425 Women: Power, Place, and Person (3)
For the most part, the generalizations and theories about the nature and behavior of humans have been "man-made" reflecting a predominantly masculine perspective leading to generalizations that excluded women. This course is an examination of women, placing women's experiences at the center of study. We will examine issues of gender, questioning traditional assumptions about being female. This course content is both a complement and correction to established disciplines (as well as a new discipline of its own) that crosses boundaries between established academic arenas presenting new ways of understanding.
ANSO 2550 Dynamics of Decision Making (3)
Examines the practical, personal, and interpersonal aspects of decision making. The course focuses on the processes of critical thinking, communication, self-awareness, and group dynamics.
ANSO 2560 Social Movements (3)
Explores the general characteristics of classic and modern social movements. Analyzes problems of recruitment, organization, duration, institutionalization, and ideology. Prerequisite: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 2600 Social Influence and Persuasion (3)
Examines the factors that facilitate conformity, techniques to ensure compliance, and will investigate the conditions that produce obedience to authority. Strategies utilized by salesmen, politicians, lawyers, special interest groups, and the media will also be examined. Also examines the nature of propaganda, use of subliminal messages in advertising, and role of social influence and persuasion in cults.
ANSO 2650 Nonverbal Behavior (3)
Examines the role of "unspoken dialogue" in human interaction and the influence nonverbal behavior has on interpersonal communication. Focuses on how nonverbal concepts like physical appearance, gestures, movement, and facial expressions underscore the "spoken dialogue."
ANSO 2710 The Sociology of Education (3)
Analyzes issues related to education and social change. Explores the relationship of educational institutions to other institutions within modern industrial societies. Examines educational policy issues such as desegregation, alternative schools, textbook censorship, teacher unions, and community control of schools. Intended for majors and non-majors. Required or highly recommended for students in teacher education programs. Prerequisite: ANSO 1010 or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics (3)
Designed to aid the student in learning how to "make sense" of a body of numbers; how to summarize and extract information from numbers; how to detect, measure, and use relationships between variables; and how to use statistical aids to the decision-making process. Prerequisite: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, PSYC 1100, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 2825 Introduction to Research Methods (3)
Research is at the heart of the behavioral and social sciences. This course will cover the basics of quantitative and qualitative research design. In addition, students will be provided with the means to critically analyze and assess the ethics of research findings. Lastly, students will be given the opportunity to collect data and analyze the results. Prerequisite: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, PSYC 1100, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 2900 Community Practicum (3)
Students engage in volunteer work at a community agency and have an opportunity to experience firsthand the agency operations. A variety of field placements are available, depending on the student's background and interests. Classroom component will include discussion of placement experiences and issues. Prerequisites: sophomore standing, permission of the instructor, and approval of placement proposal. May be repeated for credit.
ANSO 3000 Topics in Anthropology/Sociology (3)
An advanced, in-depth analysis of issues and topics in anthropology, sociology, and social science. Topics vary with the semester. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070 or PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of social science, or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 3010 Community Studies (3)
Examines investigative models and alternative research findings in a variety of community studies. Reviews preparatory analysis of the social geography and history of the field site, fieldwork strategies, and ethical issues in field research. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070 and 6 credit hours of social science, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3225 Holocaust (3)
Examines the Holocaust and the groups of individuals involved in this genocide (e.g., perpetrators, victims, bystanders, resistance fighters) from a psychological/sociological perspective. Issues explored include: the question of what enabled individuals collectively and individually to perpetrate the Holocaust, the nature of extreme prejudice, the psychology of propaganda, the impact of extreme victimization on the victim (during the Holocaust, upon liberation, and in later years), and the question of what enabled some individuals/groups/countries to actively become involved in resistance while others remained passive bystanders and others sympathizers/collaborators. The roles that psychology, psychologists, and psychiatrists played during the Holocaust are also examined. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3250 Applied Anthropology (3)
Introduces applied anthropology and employs a comparative perspective to investigate the importance of utilizing anthropological concepts in dealing with current social and cultural issues. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070 and 6 credit hours of social science, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3275 Genocide (3)
Examines the psychological, cultural, and societal roots of human cruelty, mass violence, and genocide. We examine the questions of what enables individuals collectively and individually to perpetrate mass violence and genocide as well as examine the impact of apathetic bystanders on human violence. Genocides studied include the Armenian genocide, the Holocaust, the auto-genocide in Cambodia, the Rwandan genocide, the genocides in the former Yugoslavia, and others. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3425 Juvenile Delinquency (3)
Examine the construct of juvenile delinquency focusing on causation, prevention, and intervention. Specific attention will be given to how various explanations/theories of delinquency influence social policy, social agencies, intervention strategies, and the administration of juvenile justice. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3550 Theories of Social Science (3)
Examine the works of the classic producers of ideas about society and culture, and about being a social and cultural product (Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Simmel, Freud, Mead, etc.) as each continues to influence the ideas of contemporary theorists in the social sciences. Reviews classic explanations of how society works, following major streams of social theories through to present-day approaches. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3575 Organizational Behavior (3)
Examines the processes whereby people gather to accomplish some goal that requires a coordinated division of labor. Provides an understanding of social behavior, inasmuch as we spend a significant proportion of our lives functioning within complex organizations. Discusses the major theoretical and empirical positions in order to understand the dynamics of complex organizations. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3600 Social Psychology (3)
Examines how people influence and are influenced by their social setting. Examines the social nature of individuals (attitudes, attitude change, prejudice), dyads (human relations), and small groups (conformity, decision making, leadership). Students are encouraged to apply theories and research to issues of personal concern. Prerequisite: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3610 Independent Reading Course (1-5)
Designed for individual student exploration of a given body of knowledge or a specific area of interest. Selected topics agreed upon between student and a member of the departmental faculty. Topic of the course, detailed learning outcomes, and means of evaluation to be negotiated between student and faculty member. Intended for majors. Prerequisites: junior standing and permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs,
ANSO 3650 Prejudice and Discrimination (3)
Examines the essential features, principles, facts, and theories that surround stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Theoretical approaches considered will include those from psychology, sociology, and international human rights. Consequently, discussion of intergroup relations as they pertain to different racial and ethnic groups throughout the world. In addition, the course examines discrimination based on appearance, gender, age, ability, and sexual orientation. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3875 Social Science Lab (1-3)
Lab is designed to complement a 3000-level core course allowing the instructor and student to work collaboratively towards the development of a course related project. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or PSYC 1100, and 6 hours of social science; or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 3900 Family and Kinship (3)
Examines patterns of family life in the context of the larger society. Organized around major questions, such as: What are the universal functions of the family and kinship in society? How do families differ in various societies? Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 3960 Ethnic and Minority Relations (3)
Examines and compares the problems and issues surrounding ethnicity and minority group status in various areas of the world. Explores the historical perspective of present issues confronting the United States and other Western countries. Prerequisites: ANSO 1010 or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science, or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 4000 Advanced Studies in Anthropology/Sociology (3)
Designed for in-depth study of a specific area or issue in anthropology/ sociology. Students may petition the department to consider offering the course on specific topics of current concern. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 4200 Class, Status, and Power (3)
Examines the process whereby members of a society or social group are "ranked" in some order or fashion in accordance with some criteria. Inherent in the arguments concerning social differentiations are definitions, rationalizations, the consequences of social inequality, competition, conflict, discrimination, and other ideological social issues. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 4275 Gender and Sex Roles (3)
Explores the status and roles of women and men from cross-cultural and historical perspectives. Among the enduring issues to be examined are the concepts of masculinity and femininity, role acquisition, gender inequality, and the connections between ideologies and the organization of work and unequal sex roles. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 4400 Human Sexuality (3)
Examine human sexual behavior within the cultural, social, and political context. Topics discussed include historical/cross-cultural sexual attitudes, reproductive health and rights, the range of sexual experience, gender differences and roles, sexual orientation, sex and disease, sex and the law, and sex and social responsibility/personal ethics. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor.
ANSO 4610 Advanced Independent Reading Course (1-5)
Designed for individual student exploration of a given body of knowledge or a specific area of interest. Selected topics agreed upon between student and a member of the departmental faculty. Topic of the course, detailed learning outcomes, and means of evaluation to be negotiated between student and faculty member. Intended for majors. Prerequisites: senior standing and permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 4825 Research Methods (3)
Provides a general overview of the various research methodologies used in the social sciences. Focus is on both the theory and practice of social research, covering research concept formation, research design, data collection, and data analysis. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 4875 Advanced Social Science Lab (1-3)
Lab is designed to complement a 4000-level core course allowing the instructor and student to work collaboratively towards the development of a course related project. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science and permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
ANSO 4900 Senior Seminar (3)
This seminar is designed to be a capstone experience in the major. The purpose of the course is for students to demonstrate an integration of their learning/knowledge in the discipline. Course topics vary each semester. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
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Legal Studies Course Listings
LEGL 2080 Topics in Law (3)
In-depth study of various law topics: e.g., privacy law, sex-based discrimination, family law, consumer law, criminal law, and juvenile law. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
LEGL 2400 Introduction to Law (3)
(Cross-listed with POLT 2400) Overview of the history and functioning of the American legal system. Covers such topics as the substantive law of torts, contracts, and criminal procedure and terminology, the court system, and the nature of legal reasoning.
LEGL 3000 Legal Ethics (3)
Examines the ethical and professional responsibilities of legal professionals. Students will examine such issues as confidentiality, unauthorized practice of law, and conflict of interest, as well as other ethical concerns likely to face legal assistants. Prerequisite: LEGL 2400, POLT 2400, or permission of instructor.
LEGL 3490 Litigation (3)
Examines trial investigation, preparation, and litigation proceedings. Focuses on preparing, analyzing, and summarizing factual information gathered from such sources as client interviews, interrogatories, and depositions. Prerequisite: LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400.
LEGL 4100 Advanced Paralegal Procedures (3)
Teaches students many practical skills applicable to a variety of civil law areas that are needed by paralegals. Some of those skills are case assessment, witness preparation, document acquisition, task-based billing, and recognizing the unauthorized practice of law. Prerequisites: LEGL 2400 and LEGL 4460, or permission of the program director.
LEGL 4460 Methods of Legal Research and Writing I (3)
Focuses on analyzing legal reference materials. Includes locating, analyzing, and summarizing state and local statutes, court opinions, and administrative rules. Students also study techniques of legal writing and drafting. Prerequisites: junior standing or permission of the instructor or department chair and LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400.
LEGL 4470 Methods of Legal Research and Writing II (3)
Continues LEGL 4460, focusing on the location, analysis, and summarizing of federal statutes, court opinions, and administrative rules. Students continue their study of legal writing and drafting. Prerequisites: junior standing or permission of the instructor or department chair, LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400, and LEGL 4460.
LEGL 4480 Computerized Legal Research (3)
Acquaints students with the fundamental concepts of locating and accessing legal information utilizing computer technology. Prerequisites: junior standing or permission of instructor, LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400, and LEGL 4460.
LEGL 4600 Legal Studies Seminar (3)
In-depth examination of carefully selected legal subjects, which will involve extensive law-related research and writing. This course is offered periodically and requires focused and intense study. Prerequisites: usually senior standing or permission of the instructor and LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400, LEGL 4460, and LEGL 4470. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
LEGL 4620 Overview (3)
Designed to improve students' skills in analysis and oral communications with the discipline of legal studies. Consists of a series of informal discussions with department faculty, culminating in a formal oral examination. Subject matter varies yearly. Prerequisites: senior standing and major in legal studies.
LEGL 4800 Advanced Topics in Law (3)
An advanced, in-depth study of law topics directed toward the paralegal student. Includes topics such as business organization, estate planning, and administration. Prerequisites: junior standing, LEGL 2400 or POLT 2400, or permission of the chair. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
LEGL 4900 Paralegal Clinical Studies (3-6)
Students are placed in law-related work environments to augment students' knowledge of legal studies, procedures, decision making, paralegal practices, and related areas. A total of 6 credit hours of clinical studies (internships) may be used to satisfy departmental degree requirements, with a maximum of 3 credit hours counting as upper level coursework. Prerequisite: completion of all paralegal certificate courses with a grade of C or better. May be repeated for credit.
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Psychology Course Listings
PSYC 1000 Learning Strategies (1-3)
Provides students with a structure for discovering and developing the learning strategies and the time management techniques necessary for becoming self-directed learners. The course content is focused on developing new ways of analyzing, integrating, and applying learning strategies to various learning situations, and developing modes of communication and critical thinking that encourage lifelong learning. This course is not applicable to a major or minor in anthropology, psychology, social science, or sociology.
PSYC 1100 Introduction to Psychology (3)
Introduces the breadth and diversity of contemporary psychology. Provides a foundation from which the student might progress to more advanced, specialized courses. Topics include learning, perception, biopsychological processes, childhood and development, adjustment and mental health, and social behavior.
PSYC 1200 Introduction to Psychology (3)
(International campuses only) A continuation of PSYC 1100. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the department chair/aca-demic advisor.
PSYC 2000 Issues in Contemporary Psychology (1-4)
Introductory level course designed to provide a brief, intensive overview of specific areas of contemporary psychology. Uses a number of approaches to provide students with a chance to explore how psychological principles are applied to a specific topic or area of interest. Topics vary each semester and have included feminist research, applied learning theory, understanding leadership, and workshop in human relations. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 2100 Psychology of Adjustment (3)
Designed to facilitate the application of psychological principles to personal experience. Adjustment is viewed as an active two-way process between the individual and his or her environment. Class members study the physiological and psychological determinants of behavior, with emphasis on relevant research. Organized around the themes of behavior, interpersonal relationships, and processes of psychological growth. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2150 Psychology of Sleep (3)
Sleep inhabits one third of our life. Sleep is not a passive behavior. On the contrary, it is quite active. This course focuses on sleep as a part of the daily sleep/wake cycle. This course examines the history of sleep and sleep research, developmental aspects of sleep, physiological bases of sleep, the functions of sleep, the effects of various drugs on sleep, sleep disorders, and dreaming.
PSYC 2200 Child Psychology (3)
Examines physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development of the child from conception to adolescence. The complex interaction between heredity and environment is considered. Emphasizes language development, achievement, personality, and gender behavior. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2250 Adolescent Psychology (3)
Examines the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social changes of adolescence. Lectures and class discussions consider the characteristics and problems of contemporary adolescents and implications for emerging adulthood. Special issues such as addiction, adolescent-parent relationships, and achievement are considered. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2300 Human Development (3)
Studies the development of the individual from conception through adulthood. Examines intellectual, emotional, and social aspects of behavior in terms of the complex interaction of heredity and environment. Content includes the application of prominent theories of human development to the individual's development over the life span. Reviews current research in critical areas of human behavior (e.g., attachment, aggression) and uses it to enhance the student's understanding of the human developmental process. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2400 Educational Psychology (3)
Focuses on the psychological nature of the child within an educational framework. Considers learning, cognition, motivation, personality, and emotions in an effort to see the child as a whole person functioning in the school environment. Uses a cross-cultural approach to examine the goals and values of American education. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2425 Women: Power, Place, and Person (3)
For the most part, the generalizations and theories about the nature and behavior of humans have been "man-made" reflecting a predominantly masculine perspective leading to generalizations that excluded women. This course is an examination of women, placing women's experiences at the center of study. The course examines issues of gender, questioning traditional assumptions about being female. Course content is both a complement and correction to established disciplines (as well as a new discipline of its own) that crosses boundaries between established academic arenas presenting new ways of understanding.
PSYC 2450 Psychology of Interpersonal Communications (3)
Examines the behavioral and social sciences theories of communication with an emphasis on interpersonal relationships. The course focuses on developing awareness of communication techniques and more accurate perception of self and others. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2550 Dynamics of Decision Making (3)
Examines the practical, personal, and interpersonal aspects of decision making. Focuses on the processes of critical thinking, communication, self-awareness, and group dynamics.
PSYC 2600 Social Influence and Persuasion (3)
Examines the factors that facilitate conformity, techniques to ensure compliance, and will investigate the conditions that produce obedience to authority. Strategies utilized by salesmen, politicians, lawyers, special interest groups, and the media will also be examined. Also examines the nature of propaganda, use of subliminal messages in advertising, and role of social influence and persuasion in cults.
PSYC 2650 Nonverbal Behavior (3)
Examines the role of "unspoken dialogue" in human interaction and the influence nonverbal behavior has on interpersonal communication.
The course focuses on how nonverbal concepts like physical appearance, gestures, movement, and facial expressions underscore the "spoken dialogue."
PSYC 2700 Psychology of Women (3)
Focuses on the psychological impact of being female and problems surrounding expectations through infancy, young adulthood, middle age, old age, and death. Explores scientific findings and sexist myths about male and female differences, special dilemmas such as fear of achievement, aggression, and leadership, as well as traditional and nonsexist child rearing and other topics. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2750 Introduction to Measurement and Statistics (3)
Designed to aid the student in learning how to "make sense" of a body of numbers; how to summarize and extract information from numbers; how to detect, measure, and use relationships between variables; and how to use statistical aids to the decision-making process. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, ANSO 1070, or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2825 Introduction to Research Methods (3)
Research is at the heart of the behavioral and social sciences. This course will cover the basics of quantitative and qualitative research design. In addition, students will be provided with the means to critically analyze and assess the ethics of research findings. Lastly, students will be given the opportunity to collect data and analyze the results. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2850 Peace Psychology (3)
Examines the key concepts, themes, theories, and practices involved in peace psychology. Examines the issues of peace and conflict across a wide range of interpersonal, community, national, and international contexts. Includes multiple levels of analysis from micro to macro, and multidisciplinary perspectives. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 2900 Community Practicum (3)
Students engage in volunteer work at a community agency and have an opportunity to experience firsthand the agency operations. A variety of field placements are available, depending on the student's background and interests. Classroom component will include discussion of placement experiences and issues. Prerequisites: sophomore standing, permission of the instructor, and approval of placement proposal. May be repeated for credit.
PSYC 2950 Psychology of Adulthood and Aging (3)
Approaches adulthood from an interdisciplinary perspective, stressing the interaction of psychological, sociocultural, and biological aspects of human development. Examines theoretical models of development, such as stage and process theories of change. Compares research methods of observing adult behavior and reviews recent studies of adult development. Prerequisite: PSYC 1100 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3000 Topics in Psychology (3)
Analyzes in-depth issues and topics in the field of psychology. Topics vary each semester. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 3125 Abnormal Psychology (3)
Introduces the student to psychopathology. Includes a consideration of factors (physiological, psychological, and sociocultural) that influence the development of mental disorders. Surveys the major diagnostic categories, including symptomatology, demographics, etiology, and treatment approaches. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3175 Community Psychology (3)
Community psychology views knowledge and understanding of the social context in which individuals and families live as necessary to understanding those individuals. From this framework, it is not possible to effectively intervene with an individual who is experiencing problems without also understanding and intervening in aspects of the community that are involved in the identified problem. Community psychology has four main components: prevention and competence promotion, community building with citizen participation and empowerment, human diversity, and strong research to evaluate programs. Among key values in the field of community psychology are individual wellness, the importance of a sense of community, and social justice. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3225 Holocaust (3)
Examines the Holocaust and the groups of individuals involved in this genocide (e.g., perpetrators, victims, bystanders, resistance fighters) from a psychological/sociological perspective. Issues explored include: the question of what enabled individuals collectively and individually to perpetrate the Holocaust, the nature of extreme prejudice, the psychology of propaganda, the impact of extreme victimization on the victim (during the Holocaust, upon liberation, and in later years), and the question of what enabled some individuals/groups/countries to actively become involved in resistance while others remained passive bystanders and others sympathizers/collaborators. The roles that psychology, psychologists, and psychiatrists played during the Holocaust are also examined. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3275 Genocide (3)
Examines the psychological, cultural, and societal roots of human cruelty, mass violence, and genocide. We examine the questions of what enables individuals collectively and individually to perpetrate mass violence and genocide as well as examine the impact of apathetic bystanders on human violence. Genocides studied include the Armenian genocide, the Holocaust, the auto-genocide in Cambodia, the Rwandan genocide, the genocides in the former Yugoslavia, and others. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3325 Psychology of Learning Processes (3)
Focuses on fundamental phenomena and basic literature in learning and memory. Compares human abilities with the learning capacities of various animal species. Integrates important theories and research methods with major topics including classical and instrumental conditioning, perception and information processing, attention, short- and long-term memory, motivation, discrimination and concept learning, perceptual and motor learning, and the physiological bases of memory. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permis-sion of the instructor.
PSYC 3350 Cognitive Psychology (3)
Focuses on fundamental phenomena and basic literature in cognition; compares human language abilities with the learning capacities of various animal species; integrates important theories and research methods with major topics including pattern recognition, perception and information processing, attention, short-and long-term memory, discrimination, concept learning, creativity, and decision making. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3375 Behavioral Management (3)
Focuses on techniques to change behavior patterns based on laboratory investigations in the experimental psychology of learning. Provides opportunities to observe these techniques in use in selected service and educational settings as well as participation in these applications. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3425 Juvenile Delinquency (3)
Examines the construct of juvenile delinquency focusing on causation, prevention, and intervention. Specific attention will be given to how various explanations/theories of delinquency influence social policy, social agencies, intervention strategies, and the administration of juvenile justice. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3450 Psychology and Law (3)
This interdisciplinary examination of psychology and the law focuses on the psychological underpinnings of legislation, common law, and the administration of justice. Discussion of the relationship between law and human behavior is integrated throughout. Attention is also given to the various ways in which the law informs and regulates the practice of psychology professions. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3550 History, Philosophy, and Systems of Psychology (3)
Examines the contributions of philosophy, physics, physiology, and other disciplines and intellectual traditions to the development of the subject matter, problems, and methodology of contemporary psychology. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3575 Organizational Behavior (3)
Examines the basic theoretical foundations of individual and organizational behavior, exploring the diversity of organizational structures and how various structures affect the individual. The course focuses on the individual within the organizational setting, group and interpersonal relations, and the psychology of work. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3600 Social Psychology (3)
Examines how people influence and are influenced by their social setting. Examines the social nature of individuals (attitudes, attitude change, prejudice), dyads (human relations), and small groups (conformity, decision making, leadership). Students are encouraged to apply theories and research to issues of personal concern. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3610 Independent Reading Course (1-5)
Designed for individual student exploration of a given body of knowledge or a specific area of interest. Selected topics agreed upon between student and a member of the departmental faculty. Topic of the course, detailed learning outcomes, and means of evaluation to be negotiated between student and faculty member. Intended for majors. Prerequisites: junior standing and permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 3650 Prejudice and Discrimination (3)
Examines the essential features, principles, facts, and theories that surround stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Theoretical approaches considered will include those from psychology, sociology, and international human rights. Consequently, discussion of intergroup relations as they pertain to different racial and ethnic groups throughout the world. In addition, the course examines discrimination based on appearance, gender, age, ability, and sexual orientation. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3700 Altruism and Aggression (3)
Examines antecedents of aggressive behavior--why people aggress and what steps can be taken to prevent or control this destructive behavior. Topics to be covered may include child abuse, racially based violence, terrorism, antisocial personalities (i.e., psychopath), sexual aggression, spousal abuse, drugs and aggression, and the media's impact on violence. Also explores the conditions that lead to helping behavior. The role of empathy, gender, race, and attractiveness in bystander intervention will be examined. The concept of true altruism (i.e., helping without regard to potential rewards) will also be debated. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3725 Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making (3)
Provides survey current theories of human judgment and decision making. Includes an examination of judgment and decision making under a variety of social conditions. Students examines how people make personality judgments about themselves and others; how people attribute causation to human behavior; and how people make estimates about uncertain outcomes. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or per-mission of the instructor.
PSYC 3775 Personality Theory (3)
Examines the structure, dynamics, and development of personality and explores the assumptions about human nature that underlie the various theories about personality. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3800 Introduction to Experimental Psychology (3)
Focuses on the content and methodology of experimental psychology. Examines traditional experimental designs and laboratory methods; explores content areas including learning, cognition, physiological psychology, and psychophysics; and provides opportunities for student research. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3850 Sensory and Perceptual Processes (3)
Examines the anatomy and physiology of the sense organs, the electrophysiology of the neural input, and the nature of perceptual development. Considers pathological states, although the emphasis is on normal functioning. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3875 Social Science Lab (1-3)
Lab is designed to complement a 3000-level core course allowing the instructor and student to work collaboratively towards the development of a course related project. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100, ANSO 1010, or ANSO 1070, and 6 credit hours of social science; or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 3900 Introduction to Counseling (3)
Introduces a variety of counseling theories, techniques, and skills. Focuses on the problems and issues facing a professional counselor in a variety of settings (including individual and group counseling, family counseling, counseling handicapped individuals, career counseling, and consulting). Provides students with opportunities to explore new dimensions in counseling and to confront and clarify their own reasons for wanting to do this kind of work. Prerequisites: PSYC 1100 and 6 credit hours of psychology; or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4000 Advanced Studies in Psychology (3)
Designed for in-depth study of a specific area or issue in psychology. Topics vary each semester. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 4150 Political Psychology (3)
Surveys many of the important topics from the field of political psychology. Political psychology is focused mainly on the intersection between psychology, particularly personality and social psychology, and political behavior. The field of political psychology has been strongly influenced by political and psychological theories as well as important political events and social issues. The course examines many of the important theories that have relevance to political behavior and provides the opportunity to apply these theories to important events and issues. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of psychology or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4275 Gender and Sex Roles (3)
Explores the status and roles of women and men from cross-cultural and historical perspectives. Among the enduring issues to be examined are the concepts of masculinity and femininity; role acquisition; gender inequality; and the connections between ideologies and the organization of work and unequal sex roles. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4300 Health Psychology (3)
Focuses on the fundamental issues and current literature on health psychology. This course includes material on the social and cultural bases of illness and looks at issues that affect wellness such as stress, pain, and personality. Also discussed are factors related to health care providers such as communication, utilization, and ethics. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of psychology or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4350 Cross-Cultural and International Psychology (3)
Explores the role of cultural, social, ethnic, and political contexts in human development. Assumptions, theories, methods, and interventions of traditional western psychology are critically examined for relevance to people outside the western world. Human development and family life are studied from a cross-cultural perspective. Recommendations for training global psychologists are reviewed. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of psychology or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4400 Human Sexuality (3)
Examines human sexual behavior within the cultural, social, and political context. Topics discussed include historical/cross-cultural sexual attitudes, reproductive health and rights, the range of sexual experience, gender differences and roles, sexual orientation, sex and disease, sex and the law, and sex and social responsibility/personal ethics. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4550 Drug and Chemical Dependency (3)
Introduces the history, pharmacology, and physiological effects of a variety of commonly abused substances. Emphasis is on the behavioral and social implications of drug use and abuse, treatment, and treatment methods for drug abuse. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4610 Advanced Independent Readings Course (1-5)
Designed for individual student exploration of a given body of knowledge or a specific area of interest. Selected topics agreed upon between student and a member of the departmental faculty. Topic of the course, detailed learning outcomes, and means of evaluation to be negotiated between student and faculty member. Intended for majors. Prerequisites: senior standing and permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 4650 Physiological Psychology (3)
Examines the physiological concomitants of behavior and acquaints the student with the methods and major findings of the interaction that has recently taken place between biology and psychology. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of psychology or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4700 Psychological Tests and Measurements (3)
Provides a survey of psychological testing and principles of test construction and evaluation, including characteristics, administration, and interpretations of psychological and educational tests. Students will examine the development and use of objective tests, rating scales, atti-tude-scale construction, etc. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of psychology or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4750 Advanced Statistics (3)
Examines data analysis techniques for complex research designs, emphasizing the application of advanced statistical techniques, such as complex analysis of variance and multivariate statistics. Introduces the student to the use of statistical software as a tool for data analysis. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science, including PSYC 2750, or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 4825 Advanced Research Methods (3)
Provides a focused investigation of a particular research methodology (e.g., quantitative, qualitative) used in the social sciences. Topics vary each semester. The focus of the course is on the theory and practice of social science research, covering research concept formation, research design, data collection, and data analysis. In addition, students will apply this knowledge to their own independent research project. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 4875 Advanced Social Science Lab (1-3)
Lab is designed to complement a 4000-level core course allowing the instructor and student to work collaboratively towards the development of a course related project. Prerequisites: 12 credit hours of social science and permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.
PSYC 4900 Senior Seminar (3)
This seminar is designed to be a capstone experience in the major. The purpose of the course is for students to demonstrate an integration of their learning/knowledge in the discipline. Course topics vary each semester. Prerequisite: 12 credit hours of social science or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content differs.