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B.A. in Social Sciences

PSYCHOLOGY CONCENTRATION


Psychologists seek to understand the general principles underlying the mind and behavior, and they attempt to explain and predict individual differences in characteristic ways of thinking, feeling, and acting. This concentration introduces you to the broad spectrum of psychological research with courses that examine the biological bases of behavior; the ways in which we understand the world, ourselves, and other people; the nature of social interactions and close relationships; the influences of biology, family, culture, and society on the development of the individual; and the causes and treatment of psychopathology. This program provides the background necessary to obtain advanced training in research or clinical psychology, and it also serves as excellent preparation for work in the health professions, education, clinical social work, business, and law.

We recommend that students complete the McGhee Core Curriculum before the following requirements.

Prerequisites and Recommended Courses

Before starting the concentration, students must complete Introduction to Psychology and one other introductory course in the Social Sciences, such as Introduction to Sociology, Cultural Anthropology, or Organizational Behavior. Students must also have completed Math I (or equivalent placement) before taking upper level courses in the concentration.

Methods and Theory (8 Credits)

Students must take Research Methods in Psychology and Statistics and Experimental Design in Psychology. These courses should be taken early in the program.

Concentration Courses (16 Credits)

Students select one course each from categories 1, 2, and 3, plus one additional course from category 1 or 2

Biological Foundations and Cognitive Processes

Psychology of Language / Y26.6870 4
Physiological Psychology / Y26.6872 4
Perception / Y26.6873 4
Cognitive Psychology / Y26.6874 4

Social, Personality, Clinical, and Developmental Psychology

Abnormal Psychology / Y26.6846 4
Social Psychology / Y26.6847 4
Developmental Psychology / Y26.6848 4
Personality / Y26.6849 4
Clinical Psychology / Y26.6850 4

Applied and Advanced Topics in Psychology

Death, Dying and Bereavement / Y26.6803 4
The Psychology of Women / Y26.6843 4
Industrial and Organizational Psychology / Y26.6844 4
The Psychology of Emotion / Y26.6851 4
Forensic Psychology / Y26.6852 4
History and Systems of Psychology / Y26.6877 4
Health Psychology / Y26.6878 4
Cross-Cultural Psychology / Y26.6892 4
Adult Development and Aging / Y26.7257 4

Major Requirements (20 Credits)

Students may select courses from categories 1, 2, and 3, as well as Special Topics, Advanced Methodology and Laboratory Courses, Fieldwork in Psychology, Independent Study, or other Social Sciences courses.

Special Topics

Special Topics in Psychology / Y26.6890 4

Advanced Methodology and Laboratory Courses

At least one of these courses is recommended for students applying to graduate school. A laboratory course can also be used to develop topics for a senior project.

Developmental Psychology Laboratory / Y26.6860 4
Social, Personality, and Clinical Psychology Laboratory / Y26.6861 4
Learning and Memory Laboratory / Y26.6875 4

Fieldwork

Fieldwork is recommended for students considering graduate work or careers in mental health services. A fieldwork course can also be used to develop topics for a senior project.

Fieldwork in Psychology / Y26.6891 4

Free Electives (26 - 28 Credits)

Students select 26 - 28 credits from McGhee course offerings in consultation with their advisors.

Graduation Project (4 Credits)

Students select one option in consultation with their advisors.

Senior Project Seminar (Social Sciences) / Y26.7991 4
Senior Project Internship (Social Sciences) / Y26.7992 4