Psychology (Major, Minor)
Pamela O'Brien, Dean, School of Arts, Sciences and Business
Nikeea Copeland Linder, Ph.D., Chair
Jon Stanton, Ph.D.
Degrees offered
Minor
Campuses
Traditional Undergraduate Studies
The Psychology Department of the School of Arts, Sciences and Business offers a Major in Psychology, and Minors in Psychology and in Forensic Psychology in the Traditional Undergraduate College. Psychology as a science (STEM program) studies mental processes as well as human and animal behavior. While the roots of psychology are in philosophy and the humanities, contemporary developments strongly support grounding the discipline in scientific thought and in empirical practice. These scientific roots place objective methods of data collection, critical thinking, analysis and theory construction at the core of the curriculum. The goal is to apply these understandings across settings to advance science and improve the quality of human life. Our curriculum, grounded in the traditional liberal arts and the value of social responsibility, is consistent with the scientist-practitioner model. Our students learn to think critically and to be critical consumers of the scientific literature. They learn to use the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), take laboratory courses (such as Learning and Motivation), learn about the common and abnormal functioning of personality with an emphasis on cultural sensitivity and competence, explore the social and biological bases of behavior, are required to use APA Style, and demonstrate their ability to express themselves both orally and in writing. As a Capstone experience, students complete an individualized practicum where they apply knowledge and skills they have gained under supervision. Licensed psychologists teach clinical courses in the Psychology Program of Study.
Program Objectives
The Psychology Program of Study curriculum goals are consistent with the American Psychological Associations Guidelines for the Undergraduate Major in Psychology: Goal 1 Knowledge base; Goal 2 Scientific Inquiry and Critical Thinking; Goal 3 Ethical and Social Responsibility in a Diverse World; Goal 4 Communication; and Goal 5 Professional Development.
Integral to the Psychology Major is the psychology practicum placement where students apply knowledge and skills in field settings integrating theory, research and practice. The Practicum has evolved to include placements of national prominence in which students demonstrate mastery of psychological principles in clinical psychology, school psychology, biopsychology, animal research, clinical/psychiatric research, and guidance and counseling. Students have placements working with diverse patient populations and across all age groups.
The Psychology Program of Study prepares students for a range of career paths, including graduate school, medical school, or entry-level positions that use psychological skills and knowledge. Students can use the principles of psychology in clinical or research settings, or in the fields of education and training. Psychology complements many other courses of study, especially education, business, art and music, political science, women's studies, biology, pharmacy, criminology and communications. Understanding human behavior and scientific processes of measurement and analysis provides students with a portable skill set.
The Minor in Forensic Psychology assists students in developing counseling and communication skills to prepare them to interface with diverse populations, including victims and offenders. Graduates with this Minor will be prepared to succeed in an occupation involving interaction with people, including policymaking, community action, social research and social services.
Graduates of the Program are employed in psychology-related careers and in a variety of human service, education, research and business organizations, including Sheppard Pratt Hospital, the Baltimore County Department of Health, Crisis Intervention Centers, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Americorps, Booz Allen Hamilton, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
PSY-101 Introduction to Psychology fulfills the General Education Requirement in Social Science. PSY-375 Sex and Gender, SOC/PSY-271Psychology/Sociology of Gender Roles, PSY-209 Social Psychology, and PSY-371 Honors Women and Her Symbols fulfill the General Education Requirement in Gender Studies. PSY-208 Multicultural Psychology and PSY-427 Psychology Study Abroad: Women Surviving Trauma and Building Peace fulfill both the General Education in Cross-Cultural Studies and Gender Studies. Students with a 3.0 Grade Point Average in Psychology who are in the top 35% of the class may become active members of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology. These students typically pursue an independent study project.
Psychology Majors and Minors and students choosing Psychology as a concentration for Liberal Studies must complete all courses for the Major/Minor with a grade of C or higher.
A student must have abilities and skills in five areas for PSY 306, PSY 406, PSY 409, PSY 461, and PSY 462: 1) observation; 2) communication; 3) motor; 4) intellectual, conceptual, integrative, and quantitative; and 5) behavioral and social. Technological compensation can be made for some limitation in certain of these areas, but a student should be able to perform in a reasonably independent manner.
- Observation: The student must be able to accurately make observations at a distance and close at hand. Observation necessitates the functional use of the sense of vision and somatic sensation and is enhanced by the functional use of all the other senses.
- Communication: The student must be able to communicate effectively, efficiently and sensitively in both oral and written form and be able to perceive nonverbal communication.
- Motor: Student must be able to coordinate both gross and fine muscular movements, maintain equilibrium and have functional use of the senses of touch and vision. The student must possess sufficient postural control, neuromuscular control and eye-to-hand coordination to perform profession-specific skills and tasks.
- Intellectual, Conceptual, Integrative and Quantitative Abilities: The student must be able to problem-solve, calculate, reason, analyze, record and synthesize large amounts of information in a timely manner. The student must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand spatial relationships.
- Behavioral and Social Attributes: The student must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of his/her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment and the consistent, prompt completion of all responsibilities and the development of mature, sensitive and effective relationships. Students must be able to tolerate physically, mentally and emotionally taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. The student must be able to adapt to changing environments, to display flexibility, and to learn to function in the face of uncertainties. Compassion, integrity, concern for others, effective interpersonal skills, willingness and ability to function as an effective team player, interest and motivation to learn are all personal qualities required during the educational process.
Students who may not meet the technical standards are encouraged to contact the NDMU Director of Accessibility and Health Promotion to discuss and identify what accommodations, if any, would need to made in order that the student might be able to meet the standards.
Programs of Study
Required Courses for a Major in Psychology
PSY-101 Introductory Psychology (4)
PSY-205 Theories of Personality (3)
MAT-215 Basic Statistics (Strongly recommended to be taken in the first year) (3)
PSY-210 Research Methods (4)
PSY-420 History and Systems of Psychology (3)
PSY-461 Practicum (4)
Upper Level Research Course: One of the following (4)
PSY-340 Quantitative Methods (4)
PSY-380 Qualitative Methods (4)
PSY-409 Psychometrics (4)
Outcomes Course: One of the following
PSY-411 Special Topics (3)
PSY-406 Advanced Therapeutic Techniques (4)
PSY-463 Independent Research (individual data collection project) (3)
Biological Bases (choose one)
PSY-220 Introduction to Neuroscience (3)
PSY-212 Cognition (3)
PSY-223 Biopsychology (3)
PSY-323 Sensation and Perception (4)
Behavioral Bases (choose one)
PSY-325 Learning and Motivation (4)
PSY-343/BIO-343 Animal Behavior (4)
Developmental Bases (choose one)
PSY-203 Child and Adolescent Development (3)
PSY-233 Human Growth and Development (3)
PSY-304 Adulthood and Aging (3)
Social Bases (choose one)
PSY-260 Positive Psychology (3)
PSY-209 Social Psychology (3)
PSY-208 Multicultural Psychology (3)
PSY-271 Gender Roles (3)
PSY-375 Sex and Gender (3)
Applied (choose one)
PSY-306 Theories and Techniques of Counseling and Psychotherapy (4)
PSY-207 Psychopathology (3)
PSY-390 Career Counseling (3)
PSY-451 Addiction Treatment Delivery
PSY-452 Medical Aspects of Chemical Dependency
Two additional courses at the 200-level or above (6-8)
One of these courses must be at the 300- or 400-level (a second practicum does not fulfill this requirement).
Required Courses for a Minor in Psychology
PSY-101 Introductory Psychology (4)
PSY-205 Theories of Personality (3)
PSY-210 Research Methods (4)
(or an acceptable course from the student's major discipline as determined by the psychology department chair)
Five additional psychology electives, at least one chosen from each category, and at least two from the 300-level* (12-15)
*PSY 461 and 462 are not open to Psychology Minors.
Required Courses for a Minor in Forensic Psychology
PSY-101 Introductory Psychology (4)
CRM-101 Introduction to Criminology (3)
CRM-203 Theories of Crime and Social Deviance (3)
PSY-205 Theories of Personality (3)
PSY-207 Psychopathology (3)
PSY-210 Research Methods (4)
PSY-306 Theories and Techniques of Counseling (4)
PSY-409 Psychometrics (4)
Options for Psychology Majors
The Behavioral Neuroscience Major
This interdisciplinary program is designed to serve students interested in the biological basis of behavior, with primary emphasis on brain-behavior relationships. (See separate Catalog section under behavioral neuroscience). It provides a core of Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, and Neuroscience courses. Students interested in this Program should contact the Department Chair in their first year to facilitate graduation within four years.
Four-Year Plan
Below is a sample Program of Study for the Psychology Major. Students should select courses with the assistance of a faculty advisor. It is recommended that students complete MAT- 215 and PSY-210 by their sophomore year.
Fall | Spring | ||
---|---|---|---|
First year | |||
PSY-101 Introduction to Psychology | 4 | 100/200-level Psychology | 3 |
NDMU-100 First Year Seminar | 3 | MAT-215 Basic Statistics | 3 |
General Education | 9 | General Education/Electives | 9 |
[16 credits] | [15 credits] | ||
Second year | |||
PSY-205 | 3-4 | 200-level PSY course | 3-4 |
PSY-210 Research Methods | 4 | Upper Level Research Course | 4 |
General Education/Electives | 9 | General Education/Electives | 6 |
[16-17 credits] | [13-14 credits] | ||
Third year | |||
PSY courses | 6-7 | 300-level PSY course | 3-4 |
PSY 463 or PSY 464 | 3 | 300-level PSY course | 3-4 |
General Education/Electives | 6 | General Education/Electives | 9 |
[15-16 credits] | [15-17 credits] | ||
Fourth year | |||
PSY-420 History and Systems | 3 | PSY-406 or PSY-464 | 3 |
400-level PSY course | 3-4 | PSY-406 or PSY-464 | 3 |
General Elective | 6-7 | PSY-461/PSY-462 Practicum | 4 |
[13-14 credits] | General Education/Electives | 6 | |
[16 credits] |
Courses
PSY-101 Introductory Psychology
Examines psychology's perspective on human behavior through many human experiences: learning and memory, perception, motivation and emotion, personality, social interaction, normal and abnormal behavior, and human development. Draws from experience and fosters application to the students' own lives. This is a foundational course, and it meets prerequisite requirements for most psychology courses. Fulfills general education requirement in social science and thinking critically and analytically. Lecture and lab. [4 credits]
PSY-101L Lab: Introductory Psychology
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 101 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-130 Psychology At the Movies
PSY-165 Human Sexuality
PSY-203 Child and Adolescent Development
PSY-205 Theories of Personality
PSY-207 Psychopathology
Examines the wide range of disordered behaviors from the different scholarly perspectives that comment on "abnormality." Explores the nature of abnormality; the relationships between body and mind, and brain and behavior; and the significance of abnormal personal patterns to human relationships. Prerequisites: PSY-101. [3 credits]
PSY-208 Multicultural Psychology
PSY-209 Social Psychology
Investigates the diverse mechanisms through which people influence the individual, particularly cultural socialization, stereotyping and prejudice, membership in formal and informal groups, and in close relationships. Examines topical areas of influence including attitudes, perceptual processes, conformity, conflict and aggression, roles and norms, and helping behavior, with a focus on gender. Emphasizes critical thinking about research and application of concepts to life experience. Prerequisite: PSY-101. Fulfills general education requirement for gender studies. Fulfills the social science requirement for Morrissey only. [ 3 credits ]
PSY-210 Research Methods
Introduces the basic methods of research design and report writing in the behavioral sciences. Descriptive, correlational and experimental research strategies will be discussed. Students design original research and select appropriate data analyses. Ethical issues in each type of research design will be explored. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: MAT-215 and PSY-101 or CRM-101 or SOC-101. Satisfies the technological competency requirement. [4 credits]
PSY-210L Lab: Research & Stat Methods
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 210 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-212 Cognition
PSY-220 Introduction to Neuroscience
This course is an introduction to the human nervous system exploring bio-behavioral relationships of the brain, mind, and behavior from a multidisciplinary perspective. Topics will include the sturcture and function of the nervous system, sensory and motor functioning, cognition, motivation, emotion, consciousness, neuroplasticity, behavioral genetics, and nervous system disorders. Prerequisites: BIO-111 or PSY-101. [ 3 credits ]
PSY-223 Biopsychology
Presents a current understanding of the brain and its relationship to the behaviors of species from simple organisms to humans. Content includes the study of the anatomy and function of neural systems and their relationship to major disorders of the central nervous system. Contemporary techniques of neural investigation are included. The relationship between biopsychology and other content areas within psychology such as cognitive processes, human development, clinical psychology, learning, motivation and perception are high-lighted. Prerequisites: PSY-101 or BIO-111 with a minimum grade of C. [3 credits]
PSY-233 Human Growth and Development
PSY-260 Positive Psychology
PSY-271 Hrs: Psychology of Gender Roles
PSY-304 Adulthood and Aging
PSY-306 Theories and Techniques of Counseling
PSY-306L Lab: Theories and Techniques of Counseling
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 306 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-311 Special Topics
Provides a contemporary approach to analyzing and evaluating current topics in psychology or behavioral neuroscience through a critical theoretical framework along with empirical evidence. Topics vary. May be repeated with different topics for a maximum of 6 credits. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and PSY 210 (or an equivalent research methods course approved by the psychology department chair) or by permission of the psychology department chair [3 credits].
PSY-323 Sensation and Perception
Investigates the structure and function of sensory receptors and the organization of sensory input for the basic senses of vision, audition, taste, smell, and touch. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: PSY-210. [4 credits]
PSY-323L Lab: Sensation & Perception
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 323 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-325 Learning and Motivation
Develops knowledge and research skills in learning and the experimental analysis of behavior in both animals and humans. Covers theoretical issues, basic principles, and experimental procedures. Emphasizes biological explanatory mechanisms. Practical applications of basic principles are considered. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: PSY-210. [4 credits]
PSY-325L Lab: Learning and Motivation
The lab is a co-requisite for PSY 325 focused on concept development and diiscipline specific skills.
PSY-340 Quantitative Methods
Builds on the content of Research Methods (PSY-210) to provide hands-on research and data analysis experience using more advanced techniques. Explores multivariate research designs and analysis including multifactor analysis of variance, multiple regression, factor analysis and selected non-parametric techniques. Students design and conduct a research project, write an APA research report, create a poster presentation and use professional statistical analysis software. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: PSY-210. [4 credits]
PSY-340L Lab: Quantitative Methods
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 340 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-342 Assessment and Evaluation
Surveys the theory and use of a variety of assessment instruments, including personality, aptitude, vocational, intelligence and interest testing. Evaluates the role of tests and questionnaires in placement and counseling. Prerequisites: PSY-101; statistics highly recommended. Students cannot take both PSY 342 and PSY 409 for credit. [3 credits]
PSY-343 Animal Behavior
Studies animal behavior from many perspectives, including the role of genetics and the environment, hormonal influences, and neurobiology of behavior. Consideration of evolutionary causes and consequences. Topics include the organization and development of behavior, foraging and feeding, anti-predator behavior, mating and reproductive behavior, parenting, social behavior and animal communication. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory/field experience. Prerequisites: BIO-230 or PSY-101. [4 credits]
PSY-343L Lab: Animal Behavior
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 343 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-350 Ethics that includes Alcohol and Drug Counseling Issues
Examines the ethical standards according to the American Psychological Association and applies the standards to common ethical conundrums, with an emphasis on issues related to drug and alcohol related disorders. Students practice applying the ethics code and demonstrate critical thinking in
how to approach and solve clinical issues ethically and competently. [ 3 credits ]
PSY-360 Industrial Organizational Psychology
PSY-370 Principles of Learning
Develops knowledge and practical skills in learning and the analysis of behavior applied to the work environment. Covers theoretical issues, basic principles and approaches to learning. Explores how behavioral principles are involved in employee relations and performance management. This course is for IOP majors. Not open to PSY majors. Prerequisites: PSY-101 and PSY 210 or BUS 360. Students cannot take both PSY 370 and PSY 325 for credit. [3 credits]
PSY-371 Hrs:Women and Her Symbols
Explores symbols and symbolism related to women through interdisciplinary lenses of psychology, philosophy, literature, politics, sociology, religious and cultural traditions, and art. Students will critically examine, analyze, and discuss the use of symbols in understanding women from psychological and spiritual perspectives. The use of symbols will be explored through theories, scientific evidence, cultural and religious rituals, art, and literature. Students will complete an integrative project. Prerequisite: Morrissey Scholar or permission from instructor and Morrissey Program Director. Fulfills gender studies requirement. [3 credits]
PSY-375 Sex and Gender
PSY-380 Qualitative Methods
PSY-380L Lab: Qualitative Methods
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 380 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-390 Career Counseling
PSY-406 Advanced Therapeutic Techniques
PSY-406L Lab: Advanced Therapeutic Techniques
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 406 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-409 Psychometrics
PSY-409L Lab: Psychometrics
This lab is a co-requisite for PSY 409 focused on concept development and discipline specific skills.
PSY-411 Advanced Topics
Explores in depth a focused topic in psychology, based on instructor's area of specialization. Topic changes from year to year, with recent offerings including Psychology of Religion, Attachment, Psychopharmacology, Forensic Psychology, Health Psychology, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Evolutionary Psychology, and Culture of Violence. All students give a seminar paper and complete a major research paper. Prerequisite: will be noted for specific course, based on topics. Prerequisite: PSY-210, senior status as a psychology major. Not open to minors. [3 credits]
PSY-420 History and Systems of Psychology
PSY-427 Study Tour: Women Surviving Trauma and Building Peace
PSY-450 Group Counseling
Pending
PSY-451 Addiction Treatment Delivery
Provides an overview of the treatment of addiction in the context of an integrated health delivery system including substance abuse, mental health, medical, and legal systems. Students learn and practice assessment strategies to determine the appropriate level of care. Students learn strategies for advocacy and assisting clients in gaining access to care with an intentional focus on reducing health disparities. Techniques for providing psychoeducation to clients, their families, and the community are acquired. Students practice constructing an integrated treatment plan and strategies for navigating complex treatment systems as an effective member of an interdisciplinary team. [ 3 credits ]
PSY-452 Medical Aspects of Chemical Dependency (Pharmacology)
Examines the biological, genetic, and behavioral relationships in understanding the etiology of addiction. Students identify the various characteristics and classifcations of drugs of abuse and effects on the body and the mind and demonstrate sensitivity to cultural and gender differences. Students will describe the pharmacology and mechanisms of action of the major classes of drugs of abuse and alcohol. Students learn to identify symptoms of withdrawal and tolerance. Explores the relationship between medical illnesses and addiction potential to medications. Biological treatments for addiction are explored as part of an integrated treatment plan and as part of an integrated system of care. [ 3 credits ]
PSY-453 Family Counseling
Pending
PSY-454 Treatment of Co-occuring Disorders
Explores a range of treatment approaches to co-occurring disorders. Students will demonstrate the ability to conceptualize co-occurring disorders and to develop an evidenced based
treatment plan with observable and measurable outcomes consistent with the literature Prerequisite: PSY 306. [ 3 credits ]
PSY-461 Practicum I
Provides opportunities for field experience for qualified students under professional supervision. Allows for consultative meeting with practicum coordinator concerning career goals and aspirations, which then determine the nature of a placement most consistent with student abilities and interests. Offers students an additional opportunity for advanced training and increased levels of professional responsibility through Practicum II. Requires students to meet academic and background requirements for chosen placement and to attend an academic seminar in addition to fieldwork. Prerequisites: junior psychology major status and conference with coordinator. Not open to liberal arts majors or psychology minors. Technical Standards as evaluated by the department. Cannot retake if student receives a failing grade. Students will not be permitted to repeat PSY 461 or PSY 462 if they receive a failing grade (D or F) or are removed from their practicum site due to an ethical violation. Ethical violations are defined by the American Psychological Association's Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. Ethical violations may include plagiarism. The practicum requirement cannot be waived or completed through another institution. [4 credits]
PSY-462 Practicum II
Provides opportunities for field experience for qualified students under professional supervision. Allows for consultative meeting with practicum coordinator concerning career goals and aspirations, which then determine the nature of a placement most consistent with student abilities and interests. Offers students an additional opportunity for advanced training and increased levels of professional responsibility through Practicum II. Requires students to meet academic and background requirements for chosen placement and to attend an academic seminar in addition to fieldwork. Prerequisites: junior psychology major status and conference with coordinator. Not open to liberal arts majors or psychology minors. Technical Standards as evaluated by the department. Cannot retake if student receives a failing grade. Students will not be permitted to repeat PSY 461 or PSY 462 if they receive a failing grade (D or F) or are removed from their practicum site due to an ethical violation. Ethical violations are defined by the American Psychological Association's Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. Ethical violations may include plagiarism. The practicum requirement cannot be waived or completed through another institution. [4 credits]
PSY-463 Independent Research/Independent Study
Independent study of a topic and development of a project of a student's choice. Includes directed readings, literature review and clinical study or data collection and analysis. Mentored and supervised by a faculty member of the department. Each student completes a major research paper and oral presentation. Prerequisites: PSY-210, PSY-340 and acceptance for supervision by a department member. [3 credits]