Psychology (PSYC)
Subject-area course lists indicate courses currently active for offering at the University of Louisville. Not all courses are scheduled in any given academic term. For class offerings in a specific semester, refer to the Schedule of Classes.
500-level courses generally are included in both the undergraduate- and graduate-level course listings; however, specific course/section offerings may vary between semesters. Students are responsible for ensuring that they enroll in courses that are applicable to their particular academic programs.
Course Fees
Some courses may carry fees beyond the standard tuition costs to cover additional support or materials. Program-, subject- and course-specific fee information can be found on the Office of the Bursar website.
PSYC 201. Introduction to Psychology - SB3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Description: Introduction to the methods and major content areas of psychology: sensation, perception, learning, cognition, human development, abnormal and social psychology.
Note: Students are required to participate in one or more standard experiments or to submit abstracts of published studies as part of PSYC 201.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 205. Making Sense of Data - QR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): Appropriate placement score or equivalent coursework.
Description: Students will learn about the nature of scientific inquiry, how to tell good science from bad science, how to think critically about using data to support or undermine persuasive messages, how to find and assess the quality of scientific reports to answer their questions, and how science--specifically studying human behavior--is meaningful in their everyday lives. The uses and misuses of descriptive statistics, the graphic representation of data, the role of bias, and the evaluation of behavioral science reports will be major topics.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 301. Statistics for Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; Completion of QR requirement with grade of C or higher.
Description: Elementary statistical methods as applied in the social sciences: probability; distribution (theoretical and empirical), statistics and parameters; sampling; tests of hypotheses including ANOVA; regression and correlation; contingency.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 302. Research Methods for Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; Completion of QR requirement with grade of C or higher; PSYC 301 or BIO 350 with grade of C or above.
Description: Introduction to scientific methods in psychology: formulation of hypotheses, design of experiments, execution of experiments, analysis of data, communication of results.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 305. Brain and Behavior3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: The course will focus on relationships between brain function and human behavior. It will introduce the structures, systems, and methods by which human behavior is reflected in neural activity. It will examine how nerve cells function individually and work together; the structure of the nervous system; how our sense organs provide the nervous system with information about the outside world; how the brain controls movement; and how sleep, eating, sex, stress, and social interaction are represented in the brain. We will also investigate how the nervous system is influenced by bioactive substances including natural hormones (e.g., during a response to stress), pharmacological therapeutics, and recreational drugs.
Note: Students who have previous credit for PSYC 344 cannot earn credit for this course.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 306. Life Span Developmental Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: A review of human growth and development across the lifespan. This course examines physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development from conception through old age. This course is relevant for students in psychology, neuroscience, communicative disorders, education, nursing, and public health.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for this course and also PSYC 363 or PSYC 365.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 363.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 307. Cognitive Processes3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: Survey of theory and research on cognition, i.e., thinking, concept attainment, memory, language, creativity, problem solving, and decision-making.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 322.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 308. Foundations of Psychopathology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: An introduction to taxonomy, nature, causes, and treatments of maladjusted behavior.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 385.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 310. Psychology of Diversity3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or consent of instructor.
Description: Exploration of psychological processes as they relate to interactions between diverse individuals and groups. Pertinent psychological processes include perspective taking, belief updating, creativity, identity formation, stereotyping and prejudice. Diversity will be broadly construed to encompass many dimensions along which individuals and groups differ, such as race, gender, sexuality, religiosity, physical ability, mental health, conservatism/progressivism, collectivism/individualism and socioeconomic status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 311. Preparation for Careers in Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; Less than 60 earned credit hours This course will explore different career paths in the field of psychology and related to the field of psychology.
Description: In addition, the course will prepare students for their profession by offering career development skills. Topics covered may include: making the most of a psychology degree, career planning and skill development, preparing for graduate school, clinical careers in psychology, non-clinical careers in psychology, review of graduate programs (master's and doctorate), review of other fields related to psychology (i.e., education, medicine, public health).
Note: This class is designed for students entering the psychology major.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 312. Social Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or consent of instructor.
Description: Major topics relevant to people as social beings; social learning and personality development, social influences in perception and cognition, interpersonal communication and influence, small group behavior, and mass behavior.
Note: Previously offered as PYSC 372.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 314. Reasoning and Decision-Making3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: How do people make decisions that impact their lives and the world? This course is an introduction to reasoning and decision science, including psychological, economic, ethical and political perspectives on decision-making. Students will explore decision-making in everyday life, politics, the economy, medicine, sports and the environment, with an emphasis on sustainability issues and social outcomes. This is an active, collaborative learning course with group discussions and problem-solving, as well as brief lectures. This course is relevant to students interested in all social sciences, business management, behavioral economics, health care, sustainability, political science, public health and policy, and law.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 315. Personality3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or consent of instructor.
Description: A review of major personality theories in terms of experimental and clinical findings.
Note: Students cannot earn credit for this course and PSYC 375.
Note: Previously offered as PSYC 375.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 318. Forensic Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 Review of major theories and research in forensic psychology.
Description: Students cannot earn credit for this course and PSYC 383.
Note: Previously offered as PSYC 383.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 320. Exercise Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: This course provides an introduction to a) psychological principles affecting exercise initiation and maintenance; and b) psychological outcomes of physical activity and exercise related to mental and physical health. It is an interdisciplinary course integrating Psychology and Exercise Science. It is relevant for students interested in medicine, wellness, education, sports and biology as well as psychology.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 450.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 321. Conditioning, Learning and Behavior3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: Psychologists define learning as a relatively permanent change in an organism's behavior due to experience. This course examines the basic processes of human and animal learning, focusing on classical and operant conditioning observational learning, and biological predispositions. This course address applications of the theoretical and empirical literature, including behavior change and analysis.
Note: This course does not directly address issues of school teaching practice.
Note: Students who have previously taken PSYC 321 cannot get credit for this course.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 325. Health Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: Survey of the interconnected nature of biological, psychological and social aspects of health and an evidence-based way of thinking about these relationships. Course topics include historical and recent foundations of health psychology, stress and lifestyle and health, chronic and life-threatening diseases and treatment seeking and approaches. This course is relevant for students in psychology, pre-health professions, exercise science, public health, and other physical and mental health related disciplines.
Note: Cannot earn credit for this course and also PSYC 481 or 581.
Note: Cross-listed with PSYC 581.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 481.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 331. Sensation and Perception3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: This course examines how we perceive our environment through visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, and taste modalities, and how perception sculpts our experience of the world around us. The course emphasizes identifying the structures and discussing the processes underlying perception. Topics covered include psychophysics (the quantitative measurement of perceptual experience), the anatomical structure of the eye, ear, tongue, nose, and skin, structures and functions of the nervous system, abnormalities in perception as results of aging or injury, commonalities and differences across modalities, and our psychological experience of perception. This course is relevant for students in psychology, neuroscience, communicative disorders, anatomy, and otolaryngology.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 335. Vision and Art3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or permission of instructor.
Description: This course covers how humans see, illustrated in the context of visual art. Topics include light, neural processing, visual abilities and how those influence painters and the perception of paintings.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 432.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 342. Drugs and Behavior3 Units
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or consent of instructor.
Description: Consideration of the physiological and psychological effects of drugs of social interest and the social impact of their abuse.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 344. Physiological Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or BIOL 240 or consent of instructor.
Description: An introduction to the physiological and anatomical bases of behavior.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 355. Neuroscience3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 305 or PSYC 344; or permission of instructor.
Description: This course provides a deeper dive into the field of neuroscience as a follow-up course to PSYC 305, with more detailed study of the structure and function of the nervous system, covering topics such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, brain development and plasticity, hormonal systems, motor function, biorhythms, homeostatic systems, emotion and psychopathology. This course is relevant to students interested in biology, medicine, engineering, rehabilitation, philosophy and public health, as well as psychology and neuroscience.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for this course and PSYC 443.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 366. Multicultural Psychology - WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor and approved major in either Psychology or Pan-African Studies with at least 90 hours of degree-applicable credit.
Description: The influences of race, gender, class and sexual bias in American society and its impact on individual psychology as well as on economically and socially-marginalized groups.
Note: Approved for the College of Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 368. Infant and Child Development3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 and PSYC 306.
Description: Survey of theories and research about development from infancy through childhood. This course is relevant for students in psychology, neuroscience, communicative disorders, education, and public health.
Note: Students may not receive credit for both this course and also PSYC 365.
Note: Course previously PSYC 365 Child Development.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 378. Understanding Measurement and Testing in Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 301.
Description: This class teaches students about the way tests and other measurement approaches are developed and evaluated, and provides a basic survey of how tests are used to assess important psychological constructs such as ability, personality, and psychopathology.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 313.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 382. Cognitive Neuroscience3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; PSYC 305 or PSYC 344; or instructor permission.
Description: Cognitive neuroscience combines tools and theories from cognitive science, neuropsychology, and computational modeling to understand the neural basis for functions like seeing, hearing, remembering, acting, and speaking. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to understand, evaluate, and communicate newsworthy findings from cognitive neuroscience research. This course is particularly relevant to students who plan to pursue health or science-related careers.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 422.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 388. Principles of Clinical Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; PSYC 308 or PSYC 385; or permission of instructor.
Description: Examines the history, theoretical foundations, and methods of clinical psychology. Emphasis on areas of clinical practice, along with understanding how basic research methods are employed to explore clinical questions and support clinical practice.
Note: Cannot earn credit for this course and also PSYC 482 or PSYC 582.
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 482.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 400. Psychology Research and Public Communication - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: This course will focus on issues surrounding the interpretation and dissemination of psychological concepts and findings. Topics will include the critical analysis of "psychological myths" and how to write and speak about psychology for general audiences. Case studies and in-class activities will be used to illustrate the benefits and challenges of accurately portraying psychological research to the public. The content of the seminar projects will come from each student's research experience in PSYC 491.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 404. Seminar in Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; 60 earned hours total; and consent of instructor.
Description: Topics which are timely or of interest to specialized groups. Credit varies, as listed each semester in the Schedule of Courses.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 407. Community Internships in Psychology - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301 and PSYC 302; or consent of instructor; 2.75 overall GPA.
Description: On-site formal training and community-based research and/or service with select non-profit agencies. Sites are chosen based on special topics/social issues and programs in applied developmental psychology.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status., CBL - This course includes Community-Based Learning (CBL). Students will engage in a community experience or project with an external partner in order to enhance understanding and application of academic content.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 408. International Service Learning and Research - CUE6 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302, and PSYC 404 (spring term prior to departure).
Description: Off-campus international travel and field research/service learning project, which serves as a culminating undergraduate experience, while infusing critical thinking skills and fostering a meaningful community engagement experience. This course is intended to expose students to psychological theories and empirical research while working directly with a faculty member's research project. Application and program fee required.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 409. Community Internship in Psychology II3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 407 or consent of instructor; minimum 2.75 overall GPA.
Description: On-site formal training and community-based research and/or service with select non-profit agencies. Sites are chosen based on special topics/social issues and programs in applied developmental psychology. This section is for students who have completed one section of PSYC 407.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 410. Giving Psychology Away: Critical Thinking and Public Communication - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 credit hours in Psychology.
Description: Discussion of issues surrounding the dissemination of psychological concepts and findings.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 412. Modifying Behavior - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; PSYC 321; approved Psychology major; 90 hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology, or permission of instructor.
Description: This course will require mastery of behavior modification theory and techniques, and their application to the real world problems. Because behavior modification requires the systemic application of learning principles and basic research methodology skills, the course will require students to synthesize and apply information/concepts from previous psychology courses.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 414. Seminar in Psychology - WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; 60 earned hours total; and consent of instructor.
Description: Topics which are timely or of interest to specialized groups. Credit varies, as listed each semester in the Schedule of Courses.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences Upper-Level Requirement in written communication-WR.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 415. Family Risk, Resilience and Mindfulness - CUE, WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: The three units of the semester are as follows: 1) Risk Factors, 2) Resilience, and 3) Mindfulness, and each major topic will be addressed for parents, children and the family unit. We will discuss the current scientific literature on such risk factors as poverty, divorce and single parenting, homelessness, mental and physical health issues, nutrition, family and neighborhood violence, and trauma (to include trauma-informed care). The current evidence base on the science of resilience (what is it, how it's demonstrated and how to promote it), and the practice and benefits of mindfulness for parents/children will complete the semester.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status., CBL - This course includes Community-Based Learning (CBL). Students will engage in a community experience or project with an external partner in order to enhance understanding and application of academic content.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 417. Child Psychopathology - WR, CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302 and PSYC 308 (formerly PSYC 385); approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: Review of common childhood/adolescent psychological disorders, with discussion of theory and developmental issues in child psychopathology and assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Topics may include attention deficit disorder, autism, mood disorders and family dysfunction. This course is relevant for students in social sciences, neuroscience, communicative disorder, nursing, counseling, social work, premed, and public health.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 420. History of Psychology: A Socio-Cultural Perspective - CUE, WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approval Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 credit hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: This course is designed as an overview and synthesis of the history of psychology and how this historical background has led to the development of the systems and issues of contemporary psychology. We will explore how the major historical roots and theoretical contributions led to the development of psychology as a scientific discipline. Emphasis will be on how current psychological perspectives have evolved to be more inclusive to women and minorities and the sociocultural context of this evolution.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status., CBL - This course includes Community-Based Learning (CBL). Students will engage in a community experience or project with an external partner in order to enhance understanding and application of academic content.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 425. Human Expertise and Achievement - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: This course explores human expertise, achievement, and success as they are discussed in the field of psychology. Social, environmental, cognitive, and behavioral influences will be explored. Topics will include recent theories of expertise, Dweck's theory of growth mindset, Sternberg's Theory of successful intelligence, Mischel's work on self-control, Gladwell's exploration of mentoring environments, recent studies of cultural effects on intelligence (the Flynn effect), and Duckworth's theory of "grit", among several others. The course will aim at a discussion format and is intended for relatively small groups in which discussion can be especially productive. Attendance is required.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 430. Psychology of Peace & Ethnic Relations - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: This course is intended to expose students to the theories, research, and psychosocial elements of peacebuilding as they relate to interethnic relations around the world. Empirical readings and discussion will focus on race, ethnicity, identity formation, intergroup contact, spectrum of intergroup relations (e.g., expulsion, genocide, segregation, fusion, assimilation, and pluralism), restorative practices, and peacebuilding in a multicultural world.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status., CBL - This course includes Community-Based Learning (CBL). Students will engage in a community experience or project with an external partner in order to enhance understanding and application of academic content.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 433. Music Perception and Cognition - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: This course provides an overview of the perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and neural bases of listening to music. Why does music have such strong ties to emotion? What are the parallels between music and language? What are the neuroscientific underpinnings of music perception and cognition? What does musical training do to your brain, and what other talents or skills do you acquire through musical training? This course is designed for majors in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, and does not require any coursework or other background in music.
Note: Students may not receive credit for both PSYC 433 and MUTH 301.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 435. Seminar in Infancy - WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 301 and PSYC 302 and PSYC 306 (previously 363) or PSYC 368 (previously 365); or permission of instructor.
Description: This course will cover concepts, empirical research, and issues related to infants' cognitive, perceptual, social, emotional, linguistic and/or physical development.
Note: Specific topics may vary.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 440. Aging: Science and Stories - CUE, WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: The purpose of this course is to help students understand aging through scientific research and the lived experiences of individuals, and to better understand how these perspectives might differ from one another. Students will become familiar with current aging issues (e.g., cognitive aging, social and emotional aging, mental health, and Alzheimer's disease), research methods, theories and perspectives on aging and its diversity. Students will learn how to conduct life reviews with older people and integrate these stories with scientific perspective on aging. The course requires student reflection and critical thinking about (l) how scientific evidence fits with and differs from the subjective experiences of older people and (2) how this relates to their personal aging and life story.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 442. Psych of Trauma - WR, CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302, and PSYC 305 (previously PSYC 344) or PSYC 308 (previously 385); approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: Introduction to traumatic stress research. Topics will include psychological theories of stress and trauma, the biology of stress and trauma, and risk factors for developing psychological problems subsequent to experiencing trauma.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 444. Exploration of Self: Theory and Research - CUE, WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302, and PSYC 315 (formerly PSYC 375); approved Psychology major; 90 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: We are all subject to distortions in our understanding of ourselves due to cognitive biases and conscious and unconscious processes. This class will draw knowledge gained in prior psychology courses to study theories of self focusing on how we collect information about conscious and unconscious selves, hands-on generation of personality data, and the use of these self-generated data to compare competing theories of self. The course will require understanding and using the empirical tools of psychological science and the ability to defend and critique multiple points of view.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 445. Special Topics in Neuroscience - WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201; PSYC 305 or PSYC 344; and PSYC 355 or PSYC 443; or permission of instructor.
Description: A seminar course providing in-depth treatment of an area of current interest in the discipline of neuroscience. Students will read, discuss and write reflections on original published works in the field.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
Note: Previously taught as PSYC 443.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 451. Introduction to Computer Programming for Psychology3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 301.
Description: Introduction to the use of the MATLAB programming language in psychology. No prior knowledge of programming languages is assumed.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 466. Psychology of Women3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: Analysis of scientific research and theory related to the psychology of women. Multiple theoretical perspectives will be considered (e.g., psychodynamic, social learning, cognitive, evolutionary, developmental, etc.) and specific topics evaluated will include: identity development, achievement, motherhood, work, family, aging, and menopause, etc. Ethnicity, culture, and social class will be considered in the context of specific topics.
Note: Cross-listed with WGST 411.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 471. Special Topics in Psychology3 Units
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 and permission of instructor.
Description: Survey and analysis of current theory, research and application in a specialized topic of current interest.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 490. Independent Study1-3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 and consent of instructor.
Description: Independent study in a selected subject area with approval and supervision by a faculty member.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 491. Undergraduate Psychology Research1-3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 and consent of instructor.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, and statistical treatment.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 492. Undergraduate Psychology Research - CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201, PSYC 301, PSYC 302; approved Psychology major; 85 earned hours total, including at least 24 hours in Psychology; or permission of instructor.
Description: An independent study class involving research on a focused topic in Psychology. Students register for individual sections of PSYC 492 after contacting a faculty mentor and arriving at an agreed-upon course of work for the semester. Each psychology research experience is unique to the particular student and faculty research lab in which it occurs.
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status., CBL - This course includes Community-Based Learning (CBL). Students will engage in a community experience or project with an external partner in order to enhance understanding and application of academic content.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 493. Undergraduate Psychology Research II1-3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 491 and consent of instructor.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, and statistical treatment. This section is for students who have completed one semester of PSYC 491.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 494. Undergraduate Psychology Research III1-3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 491; PSYC 492 or PSYC 493; and permission of instructor.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, and statistical treatment. This section is for students who have completed one semester of PSYC 491 and one semester of PSYC 492 or PSYC 493.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 495. Honors Psychology Research3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into Psychology Honors Program.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, statistical analysis, and report writing in support of the honors thesis.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 496. Honors Psychology Thesis - WR, CUE3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 491 or PSYC 495; PSYC 201, PSYC 301, and PSYC 302; admission to Psychology Honors, permission of instructor.
Description: Data collection, statistical analysis, and report writing in support of the honors thesis, including presentation of the thesis in written and oral formats.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
Course Attribute(s): CUE - This course fulfills the Culminating Undergraduate Experience (CUE) requirement for certain degree programs. CUE courses are advanced-level courses intended for majors with at least 90 earned credits/senior-level status.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 497. Undergraduate Psychology Research IV1-3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 494 and consent of instructor.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, and statistical treatment. This section is for students who have completed PSYC 494.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 516. Introductory Mathematical Psychology3 Units
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201.
Description: Survey of basic applications of probability and mathematics to models and theories in learning, perception, and social psychology.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 524. Psycholinguistics3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Spring Only
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 307 or ENGL 325 or LING 325 or LING 518.
Description: Psychological aspects of language and their significance for analysis and understanding of cognitive and social processes.
Note: Cross-listed with LING 524.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 544. Animal Behavior and Behavioral Ecology3 Units
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or consent of instructor.
Description: Survey of sensory and behavioral characteristics of animal species, with stress upon ecological variables.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 566. Race and Gender in Psychological Research3 Units
Description: Critical review of psychology with respect to issues of race and gender. Examines theory and research paradigms, modern, postmodern and Afrocentric methodologies.
Note: Cross-listed with PAS 566.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 571. Special Topics in Psychology3-4 Units
Term Typically Offered: Occasionally Offered
Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor.
Description: Survey and analysis of current theory, research and application in a specialized topic of current interest.
Note: Undergraduate, Psychology Honors, or graduate credit available with consent of instructor.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 581. Introduction to Health Psychology3 Units
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 or consent of instructor.
Description: Survey of theory and research on psychological factors which contribute to health and well-being, and to the occurrence, severity, and remediation of illness and disease.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 582. Introduction to Clinical Psychology3 Units
Prerequisite(s): Junior, Senior, or master's-level student with 9 or more credit hours in Psychology beyond PSYC 201.
Description: Examines the history, theoretical foundations, and methods of clinical psychology. Emphasis on areas of clinical practice, along with understanding how basic research methods are employed to explore clinical questions and support clinical practice.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 591. Graduate Psychology Research1-6 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Experimental Psychology Combined BS/MS program; permission of instructor.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, and statistical analysis, under the supervision of a sponsoring faculty member.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 592. Graduate Psychology Research 3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Experimental Psychology Combined BS/MS program; permission of instructor.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Experimental Psychology Combined BS/MS program; permission of instructor.
Description: An independent study class involving research on a focused topic in Psychology. Students register for individual sections of PSYC 592 after contacting a faculty mentor and arriving at an agreed-upon course of work for the semester. Each psychology research experience is unique to the particular student and faculty research lab in which it occurs.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 595. Honors Psychology Research3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Experimental Psychology Combined BS/MS program; permission of instructor; acceptance into Psychology Honors Program.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Experimental Psychology Combined BS/MS program; permission of instructor; acceptance into Psychology Honors Program.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, statistical analysis, and report writing in support of the honors thesis.
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
PSYC 596. Honors Psychology Thesis - WR3 Units
Term Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 591 or PSYC 595; Admission to the Experimental Psychology Combined BS/MS program; permission of instructor; acceptance into Psychology Honors Program.
Description: Designing of experiments, collection of data, statistical analysis, and report writing in support of the honors thesis.
Note: Approved for the Arts and Sciences upper-level requirement in written communication (WR).
For class offerings for a specific term, refer to the Schedule of Classes
