Request a Course Catalog View Online Class Demo

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Degree -
180 Credits Total

To view the course descriptions

Click on a course name below to display the description for that course. You can also display or contract all course descriptions by using the buttons below.

Expand AllContract All



Area I Core Curriculum 76 credits

Electives

An introduction to business functions and their opportunities. Students will also be given an orientation to resources available to them through a variety of sources, including the University.

Prerequisite(s): None
Credits: 4

This course introduces the criminal justice system and contemporary policing in the United States.

Prerequisite(s):
Credit(s): 4

This course provides a comprehensive look at the criminal court system in the United States and the American correctional system. The course looks at the roles of prosecutors, judges, defense attorneys and the dynamics of their interactions as well as an overview on all aspects of corrections, including probation and parole.

Prerequisite(s):
Credits: 4

This course covers main themes of American history from the country’s beginnings until the beginning of the reconstruction period following the Civil War. The concepts, chief actors, and major events of this period of time will be studied, and the student will analyze the historic concepts of cultural expansion and development found in the history of America. The process of national growth required by foreign and domestic influences will also be examined.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1001
Credit(s): 4

This course surveys the history of art beginning with the Prehistoric/Tribal period and continuing through the Middle Ages. The concepts, artists, motifs, works, and styles of the periods will be studied. The course introduces students to elements of art and design, and fosters an appreciation for the world of art.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1001
Credits: 4

This course surveys the history of art from the Middle Ages to the present. The concepts, artists, motifs, works, and styles of the periods will be studied. The course introduces students to elements of art and design, and fosters an appreciation for the world of art.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1001
Credit(s): 4

This course is for students to obtain basic knowledge and skills needed in using office application software and Internet features. A broad range of software used in an office, such as, word processing, spreadsheet, database, slide presentation, email, and Internet research will be introduced. It is not intended for IT majors.

Prerequisite(s): None
Credits: 4

The latest major approaches and techniques of management are studied, including planning, systems management, new organizational concepts, computer influence, controlling, and quantitative measurement.

Prerequisite(s): None
Credit(s): 4


This course introduces students to Information Technology in a non-programming context to provide students with a solid foundation in computer organization, computer systems, operating systems, safety issues and technologies.

Prerequisite(s): None
Credits: 4

Personal Development

Designed to help entering students develop a more effective approach to college success, this course emphasizes positive self-evaluation, goal setting and motivation; practical skills of successful students; effective use of the library and the many sources of information available; and the concepts and tools of critical thinking, and their applications.

Prerequisite(s):
Credits: 4

Social Sciences

This course introduces students to general principles and problems of modern government. It shows the forms of government, the place of government in the social process, and theories of the state. The American system is analyzed. Studying political science provides accurate understanding of how and why political systems work as they do.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1002 or ENG2001
Credits: 4

This course serves as an introduction to the study of human social development, its organizations, and its institutions. It teaches the student to look at our society and others from a sociological perspective. Specific areas covered are group dynamics, social deviance, gender equality, racial and ethnic relations, the family, religion, and education.

Prerequisite(s):
Credit(s): 4

In this course a study is made of human behavior with special reference to perception, learning, memory, thinking, emotional life, and individual differences in intelligence, aptitude, and personality. Emphasis is placed on the scientific nature of psychological investigations. Research methods are analyzed, and results are related to daily life and everyday problems.

Prerequisite(s):
Credits: 4

Humanities

In this course students develop their writing skills through the reading and construction of expository essays. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Prerequisite(s): ENG0099 or exemption thereof
Credits: 4

In this course students write analytical and critical essays about plays, short stories, and poetry. Emphasis is placed on literal and figurative interpretations, structural analysis, and variations in thematic approach. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1001
Credit(s): 4

Focusing on the construction of effective written argument, this course refines composition techniques, develops abstract thought processes, and promotes critical thinking. A library paper is included. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1001
Credits: 4

Organized thematically, this course explores global viewpoints expressed in novels, plays, short fiction, and poetry. A library paper and a number of shorter critical essays are included.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1002
Credit(s): 4

This course introduces students to philosophical thinking. Students will confront fundamental questions of self and identity, of freedom and determinism, of belief and truth, and of ethics and morality. Critical thinking activities will challenge students to incorporate philosophy into their daily lives by applying the questions of philosophy to themselves and their world.

Prerequisite(s): Co- orENG1002 or ENG2001
Credits: 4

This course is designed to prepare the student to develop and improve the ability to communicate. Self-expression, preparation of effective speeches, and development of speaking and listening skills will be emphasized.

Prerequisite(s):
Credit(s): 4

Mathematics/Science

This is the first of a two-course sequence in biology. This course introduces biology, scientific methods, biological chemistry, and energy for life. This course also exposes students to the organization of humans and plants, basic genetics, and evolutionary concepts. In addition, the student will complete writing assignments that serve to introduce scientific literature.

Prerequisite(s): MAT0099 Co or ENG1001
Credits: 4

Biology II is the second course in a twocourse sequence in biology. This course continues the study of human biology with the role of endocrine and nervous systems in homeostatic regulation. Other topics covered are human reproduction, development, evolution, and advanced genetics. Ecological concepts are also discussed. The student will complete writing assignments that serve to increase knowledge of the scientific literature.

Prerequisite(s): BIO1020 with a grade of C or better ENG1001
Credit(s): 4

Intermediate Algebra is a continuation of MAT0099 exploring the arithmetic of polynomials, factoring, systems of linear equations, solving quadratic equations, and applying algebra techniques to problem solving and applications.

Prerequisite(s): MAT0099 or exemption thereof.Co or prerequisite ENG1001
Credits: 4

College Math is a survey course emphasizing inductive and deductive reasoning, concepts from set theory, applications of Venn diagrams, elements of formal logic, common formulas and relationships from geometry, and an introduction to probability and statistics.

Prerequisite(s): MAT0099 or exemption thereof or Co or prerequisite ENG1001
Credit(s): 4

Statistics introduces the student to the terminology and techniques of Statistics including levels of measurement, measures of central tendency and variance, random variables, linear correlation and regression, normal probability distributions, sampling distributions, the Central Limit Theorem, and hypothesis testing.

Prerequisite(s): MAT1001 or MAT1002
Credits: 4


Area II Major Curriculum 104 credits

Labs Psychology Foundation

An understanding of the statistical principles associated with the study of behavioral science research through application and computerized data analysis (i.e., SPSS).

Prerequisite(s): Prerequisite or Co-requisite: PSY2007 with a C or better
Credits: 2

An understanding of the methodological principles associated with behavioral science research through an application of the theoretical, conceptual, and practical principles.

Prerequisite(s): Prerequisite or Co-requisite: PSY2060, PSY2008 with a C or better
Credit(s): 2

Core 28 credits

Historical and current perspectives regarding the examination of human attention, language, vision, memory, and other forms of information processing (e.g., decision-making).

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credits: 4

The study of intrapersonal and interpersonal processes such as conformity, social perception, attribution theory, altruism, aggression, prejudice, persuasion, group dynamics, self-concept and self-esteem.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

The major theoretical perspectives of personality development, structure, dynamic assessment, and psychological adjustment. Additional topics include consideration of biological and environmental indices of personality.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credits: 4

Electives (Choose 4 from the following) 16 credits

An understanding of the major developmental theories associated with late adulthood (age 65 and older). The primary areas of exploration include death and dying, cognitive, interpersonal, intrapersonal, physical, emotional systems in addition to the contextual approaches (e.g., family dynamics, leisure, retirement, bereavement) involved in understanding these systems.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2022 with a C or better
Credits: 4

An understanding of the major developmental theories associated with adulthood (ages 18 through 65). The primary areas of exploration include cognitive, interpersonal, intrapersonal, physical, and emotional systems in addition to the contextual approaches (i.e., typical life tasks) involved in understanding these systems.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2022 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

An understanding of the major developmental theories associated with childhood (age 3) through adolescence (age 21). The primary areas of exploration include cognitive, interpersonal, intrapersonal, physical, and emotional systems in addition to contextual approaches involved in understanding these systems.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2022 with a C or better
Credits: 4

The examination of human motives and the impact of emotion on the decision making process. Consideration of primary and secondary motivators regarding theoretical and practical application for reward, punishment, and avoidance scenarios.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

An understanding of the manner in which humans perceive and respond to internal and external stimuli. Areas of study include vision, audition, the lower senses, receptor mechanisms, psychophysical methods and perceptual phenomena.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credits: 4

Labs 4 credits

The design, operation, analysis, and write-up of experiments which focus on human cognition (e.g., attention, memory and information processing).

Prerequisite(s): PSY3001 with a C or better; PSY2061 with a C or better
Credits: 2

Courses 48 credits

A theoretical, conceptual, and practical overview of internal and external determinants of addictive behaviors across the lifespan. Assessment and treatment approaches will be discussed along with issues influencing recidivism.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credits: 4

The examination of psychological conditions according to varied populations including gender, ethnicity, religion, geography, culture, age, sexual orientation, physical disability, education, and social class.This course is meant to expose students to the impact of these contexts on the intra and interpersonal psychosocial framework for individuals across development.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, 2022, 3010, & 3300 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

A historical and contemporary examination of the psychological influences of media. Consideration of the local, regional, national and international influences of varied information sources including television, the Internet, print media, electronic communication devices, and radio within a developmental context.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3001, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credits: 4

A biopsychosocial understanding of the determinants of human sexual behavior. Developmental views of normal and abnormal sexual behavior, treatment, and cultural influences will also be highlighted.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

Examination of the major, minor, and associated categories of anxiety disorders. The course will focus on etiology, prevalence rates, course, duration, assessment, diagnostic, and treatment issues. Attention will be drawn to the observed developmental differences in anxiety disorders, the relative contributions of research in the field, and the dynamic interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors in the field.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credits: 4

A historical and contemporary examination of the psychological issues of gender from a social, emotional, personality, physiologic, geographic, and cultural perspective. Specific topics will include career development, marriage, family, sex role development and expectations, role conflict achievement, and sexuality.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

An introduction to the field of abnormal child psychology and the associated major theories. Students will be exposed to the pathogenic process (i.e., developmental sequence) of psychological disorders from early childhood to late adolescence. A major goal of the course it to promote critical thinking on major issues such as the genetic, biological, and environmental influences on behavior, emotions, and personality in conjunction with associated assessment, diagnostic, and treatment procedures.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credits: 4

An investigation of the major theories, strategies, and methods of understanding the psy-chological contributions to human health and disease. The psychological approaches to treating and preventing disease and unintentional injuries with a focus on health and safety promotion.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

Electives (Choose 4 from the following 16 credits

An understanding of the legal system within the context of psychological methodology and research. Historical and contemporary dilemmas within the law in addition to between the legal system and psychology will be explored.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better & Senior Standing
Credits: 4

An examination of the contemporary issues in psychology regarding religious beliefs, values, experience, and practice. Additional topics include psychosocial comparisons of major religions, religious development, and the connection between religion and health promotion.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better & Senior Standing
Credit(s): 4

A study of the biological mechanisms of behavior in psychology. Topics include the development of the brain, brain behavior relationships, hormones and sexual behavior, the biology of learning, memory, and mental disorders. Emphasis will be placed on human findings and applications.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better & Senior Standing
Credits: 4

A survey and focus on the theoretical, conceptual, and practical application of counseling regarding assessment, treatment, diagnostic, and ethical issues in Professional Counseling. Students will gain an understanding of contemporary assessment and interview techniques for mental health disorders and the array of specialties in the counseling profession.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better & Senior Standing
Credit(s): 4

A survey and understanding of the application of psychological testing and measurement techniques including self-report, interview, observation, and collateral information. The importance of test construction, utilization, and the psychometric background of tests will be considered for intellectual, emotional, behavioral, and personality applications. The course will also involve the ethical and pragmatic considerations involved with testing and measurement according to developmental level.

Prerequisite(s): PSY2010, PSY2022, PSY3010, & PSY3300 with a C or better & Senior Standing
Credits: 4

Note: Elective courses will vary by campus based on faculty expertise. Thus, not all campuses will have the capability of offering all electives (General Education or Major) listed.

Prerequisite(s):
Credit(s):

Psychology Foundation 20 credits

An investigation of the methodological principles regarding behavioral science research, descriptive and inferential techniques, and the process of using these techniques for psychological experimentation and data analysis.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better; MAT1001 and MAT1002 with a C or better
Credits: 4

A survey of psychological disorders, contrasting theoretical views and representative research investigating these disorders. A concentration on classification, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

In Human Growth and Development, students will learn the normal developmental stages of the human life cycle. The stages of human development will be examined within the context of the biological, psychological, sociological, intellectual and emotional processes. Relevant cross-cultural comparisons are used to illustrate the unity and diversity of human life.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credits:

A survey of the major and modern theories in psychology through an examination of historical controversies. An understanding of the roots of psychology in natural and social sciences. A consideration of the diversity of psychological study and the future of psychology.

Prerequisite(s): PSY1001 with a C or better
Credit(s): 4

Research design and methodology. An analysis of the approaches to developing, understanding, and interpreting psychological phenomena. Topics include experimental vs. non-experimental research such as survey, observation, case study, and archival data. An understanding of reliability, validity, and experimental control issues.

Prerequisite(s): or Co-requisite: PSY2007 with a C or better
Credits: 2

First Name:
Last Name:
State:
Zip:
Email:
Phone:
Are you in the Military?
Yes      No 

Contact Information

For more information about South University please call 1-888-444-3404 or visit us online at http://online.southuniversity.edu.