Psychology Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
PSY 100
General Psychology
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
A brief introduction to the science of psychology. Students will learn how scientific inquiry can be used to gain insight into human thought and behavior. Topics include: the structure and function of the brain, sensation, perception, problem solving, memory, social interaction, abnormal psychology and therapy. Social Science Perspective and Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
PSY 186
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
PSY 207
Principle of Learning with Lab
Offered: Typically in alternate years
An examination of traditional learning theory as it has been developed through the use of operant and classical conditioning techniques. The course will draw heavily on research findings from animal studies but also will discuss the application of those findings to human behavior modification, psychopathology, addiction, and education. The laboratory will involve the application of conditioning techniques learned in the course 1 Course Credit
PSY 208
Cognitive Psychology with Lab
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This is a course about the construction, modification, and use of mental models. Topics will include sensation, attention (both selected and unselected), perception, memory (both explicit and implicit), language, concept formation, problem solving, and creativity. The laboratory will involve examination and application of the principles learned in the course. 1 Course Credit
PSY 209
Social Psychology
Offered: Typically annually
Effect of social factors upon behavior, motives, attitudes, and personality; and psychological aspects of social groups and institutions. 1 Course Credit
PSY 210
Industrial/Organizational Psy
Offered: Typically annually
This course is designed to help students understand and appreciate the many ways in which psychological theories and procedures apply to the world of work and can be used to enhance human productivity and health. The course's emphasis will be on practical applications of psychology and will include topics such as personnel policies and administration, performance management, organizational theory, behavior and development, occupational health, and leadership. 1 Course Credit
PSY 211
Abnormal Psychology
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This course provides an introduction to the field of abnormal psychology and mental health. Students who take this course will have the opportunity, through class discussions, readings, and community-based service-learning experiences, to explore the history and complexities of mental health and mental illness, including the impact felt by individuals, families, and society. The course begins with a look at the history of mental illness, including the early theories that have fueled many of the current beliefs and stereotypes. Next, we survey the various methods for diagnosing and studying mental illness, with an emphasis on empirical methodology and theoretical conceptualizations. Finally, the course explores the various forms of mental disorders, paying particular attention to the numerous complexities involved in their prevention, identification, and treatment. 1 Course Credit
PSY 212
Behavioral Neuroscience w/Lab
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
A study of the physiological basis of human and animal behavior. Examination of traditional approaches to the study of behavioral neuroscience, as well as consideration of recent developments and relevance to both normal and abnormal behavior will be included. The laboratory includes neuroanatomical dissection and examination of a sheep brain; examination of human brain sections; several electrophysiological studies of neural and sensory functions using invertebrates; and measurement and analysis of human physiological responses to psychological variables, such as stress. 1 Course Credit
PSY 213
Child Psychopathology
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
An introduction to the fundamental theories, research methods, concepts, and controversies within the field of childhood behavioral and emotional disorders. An emphasis will be placed upon current empirical and theoretical approaches to childhood disorders, including issues in their classification, etiology, and developmental course. 1 Course Credit
PSY 214
Ethology with Laboratory
Offered: As student interest and faculty availability allow
The naturalistic study of animal behavior viewed from an evolutionary perspective. An investigation of general principles of behavior shared by many animals as well as specific adaptations. Laboratory emphasizing careful observation and interpretations of the ways animals behave. 1 Course Credit
PSY 215
Health Psychology
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
A course designed for Psychology majors, but with relevance for Nursing majors, Physical Education majors, pre-med and pre-dental students, and interested others. Interdisciplinary in content, the course examines how biological, psychological, and social factors interact with and effect health, chronic disease, health-promotion efforts, medical treatment, and stress management. Course content also will examine sound research principles, alternative or complementary treatments, and application techniques for health-habit changes. 1 Course Credit
PSY 217
Cross-Cultural Psychology
Offered: As student interest and faculty availability allow
An exploration of the emerging field of cross-cultural psychology, this course will provide a critical and comparative study of cultural effects on human psychology. We will focus on the linkages between cultural norms and behavior and the ways in which particular human activities are influenced by different, sometimes dissimilar, social and cultural forces. Through this process students will gain a better understanding and appreciation of psychological universals (phenomena common to people of many cultures), as well as the breadth and depth of diversity in human thought and behavior across the world. 1 Course Credit
PSY 222
Seminar in Cont Psy Science
Summer Course Only
Course Description: This course will serve as an integrative experience for students enrolled in psychology courses. It will focus on the three central themes which form the program of this year's annual national Association for Psychological Science convention in Washington, DC. These include (1) Regulating the World, Regulating the Mind; (2) Biological Bases of Social Behavior; and (3) Building a Better Psychological Science: Good Data Practices and Replicability. Students will first conduct a comprehensive collaborative review around these themes, attend the national conference, and then prepare written reports and reflections concerning their experiences.
PSY 225
Stats & Rsrch Meth-Behav Sci
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course will introduce students to the integrated use of both statistics and research methods in the behavioral sciences, with particular emphasis on the field of psychology. An examination of the basic principles of scientific inquiry will be followed by a more intensive development of the techniques involved in conducting, analyzing, interpreting and reporting psychological research. Experimental and non-experimental methodologies will be introduced, with emphasis on the selection of appropriate designs for different research questions. Topics will include hypothesis testing, experimental and non-experimental design, validity and reliability, ethical principles, descriptive and inferential statistics, computer-based data analysis, graphical presentation of data, and the use of appropriate form and style in writing research reports. This course is required of Psychology majors and serves as a prerequisite for PSY 325, where students will continue to design and implement their own research study. 1 Course Credit
PSY 226
Psychology Social Class & Pov
Summer Course Only
This course explores contemporary theories, findings, and social issues regarding the psychology of poverty. Emphasis is placed on understanding how poverty influences beliefs and behaviors across the lifespan including issues of work, parenting, mental and physical health, and violence against women. The course is guided by a feminist analysis that recognizes the intersection of gender, race/ethnicity, and social class. A major goal of the class is that students think critically about issues surrounding poverty and wealth at the individual and societal levels (including media representations of poverty and public policy). Learning will take place using readings, lecture, discussion, media analysis, guest speakers, experiential learning, and service learning community placements.
PSY 231
Social Gerontology
Offered: Typically alternate years in Fall Terms
An introductory course intended for undergraduate students who are interested in learning more about aging and the field of gerontology. The course approaches aging from an interdisciplinary perspective, focusing on the physical, psychological, economic, and social changes that occur with age. This course also explores personal and societal attitudes toward aging and focuses on the diversity that is present in the older population. By the end of this course, students are expected to have a deeper understanding of the kinds of lives that older adults lead, with many of their stereotypes about the elderly having been challenged. 1 Course Credit
PSY 286
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
PSY 321
Personality Theory
Offered: Typically alternate years in Fall Terms
Personality Theory is designed to introduce students to some of the major theoretical perspectives on what constitutes the 'self,' or those characteristics and traits that make us who we are. The field of personality, drawing from its philosophical traditions, attempts to answer such questions as 'What is the nature of humankind?' or 'How does one develop a healthy or unhealthy personality?' Questions like these have been the driving force behind psychologists' attempts at discovering a unified and comprehensive understanding of personality. Throughout the course, we will examine and discuss a wide range of both classical and contemporary perspectives on personality, focusing not only on the specific components of each, but also addressing the merits of each and their implications for larger theoretical debates and one's own personal experiences. Using a combination of critical thinking and thoughtful reflection, students are invited to consider the various theories and supporting evidence, formulating their own conclusions and applying each to their greater understanding of self and others. 1 Course Credit
PSY 323
Clinical/Counseling Methods
Offered: Typically every Spring Term (next offered term yet to be determined)
Clinical and Counseling Methods is designed to provide undergraduate students with an overview of the science and practice of clinical and counseling psychology. The course will cover the history and development of the field, including methods of inquiry and major theoretical perspectives. Methods of assessment and intervention in clinical psychology will be examined through readings, lectures, discussions, and, when appropriate and available, film/video. Additionally, students will be encouraged strongly to apply critical thinking and analysis skills to some of the current and controversial issues that pervade the field of clinical psychology. 1 Course Credit
PSY 325
Stats & Rsrch Meth-Behav Sc II
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This course will provide an advanced introduction to the integration of both statistics and research methods in the behavioral sciences, with particular emphasis on the field of psychology. This course presumes that students possess prior understanding of the basic principles of scientific inquiry and the basic techniques involved in conducting, analyzing, interpreting, and reporting psychological research. Experimental and non-experimental methodologies will be reviewed, with continued emphasis on the selection of appropriate designs for more complicated research questions than those addressed in PSY 225. Topics will focus primarily on the use of inferential statistics and experimental designs, advanced concepts of computer-based data analysis and graphical presentation, and continued development of appropriate form and style used for written research reports. This course is required of all Psychology majors and serves as a prerequisite for PSY 424, where the students will design and implement their own research study. Practical Reasoning with Quantitative Analysis (PRQ). 1 Course Credit
PSY 386
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
PSY 390A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
PSY 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
PSY 395
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
PSY 397A
Team Initiated Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
PSY 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
PSY 398
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
PSY 420
His & Systems of Psychology
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
A study of the historical and philosophical development of psychological thinking from Descartes to the present. Western History Perspective. 1 Course Credit
PSY 424
Senior Research
Offered: Typically offered Fall and Spring terms
Each student will design, conduct, and present a psychological experiment as a senior thesis.
1 Course Credit
PSY 486
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
PSY 490A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
PSY 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
PSY 495
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
PSY 497A
Team Initiated Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
PSY 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
PSY 498
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
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This online publication is the official text of the Berea College Catalog & Student Handbook. Berea College reserves the right to amend, revise, or modify content within this publication at any time.


