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NCU Catalog - April 2018 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
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Course Codes and Course Length
Course Codes
NCU course codes include a course prefix and number. The course prefix identifies the content area of a course and the number identifies the course-level (e.g., Undergraduate, Master’s. etc.). Courses in this catalog section are list by School and content area in numerical order.
Example: The course prefix “ACC” indicates Accounting content
Course Numbering
Course numbering used at NCU is as follows:
| Undergraduate |
1000 to 4999 |
| Master’s |
5000 to 6999;
5000-8 to 6999-8 |
| Doctoral and Advance Studies Certificates |
7000 to 8999;
7000-8 to 8999-8 |
| Doctoral Sequence Courses |
9000 to 9799;
9901A-C to 9904A-C
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Course Length
Course length varies by course and program. Please refer to the course listing in this catalog to determine the length of a specific course.
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Psychology |
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PSY-8137 - Biopsychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course takes a biopsychological perspective on key issues in behavior and mental health such as sex and gender, obesity, substance addiction, knowledge, cognition, and learning. The latest research and ethical issues in neuropsychology, such as neurogenesis, degeneration, regeneration, and the relation of adverse childhood events on brain structure and functioning will also be explored.
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PSY-8134 - Psychopharmacology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course presents an overview of psychopharmacology, alternative therapies, and principles that focus on helping to identify those individuals who can benefit from the use of pharmacologic intervention, as well as useful methods of evaluating treatment efficacy. Research on neurophysiology, and biologic actions and side effects of psychopharmacological and alternative agents will be reviewed. DSM-5 is used for disorder classifications throughout this course. This course may serve as a foundation for further study for individuals planning to prescribe or consult, within their scope of practice, as a non-physician mental health professional.
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PSY-8129 - Organizational Training and Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course provides an in-depth look at how organizations train and develop associates. Topics include how training content is developed, how content relates to organizational strategy, the importance of needs assessment, effective training evaluation, and appropriate instructional methods. Fundamental psychological theories impacting organizational training and development are highlighted.
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PSY-8128 - Stress and Coping Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundations and empirical research on the psychological, physiological, and environmental nature of stress. The impact of acute and chronic stress is examined and emphasis is given to various approaches to stress management.
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PSY-8127 - Group Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
Students will examine and apply theories related to the structure and processes of groups in multiple settings. The interactive nature of influence between a group and its members, leadership, power, and decision making are only a few of the important topics students will study. Students will examine research and apply theories to group case studies.
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PSY-8125 - Psychology of Perception Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course will introduce the student to the research into the psychoneuroanatomy of human perception, including vision, audition, taction, olfaction, and gustation. An extension of physiological psychology, psychology of perception delves into the finer points of the cognitive, motor, and limbic inputs that derive from normal and abnormal human sensory perception. The course also helps the student to understand mind-body/body-mind processes through more definitive models of behavior.
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PSY-8124 - Research Project in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course requires the student to create a research project in coordination with the student’s faculty advisor and course faculty member. The student will conduct a research study in the area of specialization or interest, and document the results in a formal project paper that documents the topic, methodology, analysis of results, and discussion/conclusions according to standard research conventions in the field of Psychology. Individual topic areas are to be submitted to and approved by the faculty member. This course is graded using Satisfactory (S) and Unsatisfactory (U) grading criteria.
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PSY-8123 - Theories of Psychotherapy and Counseling Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
In this course, students will learn the integral approach to theories of psychotherapy and counseling, integrating multiple theories and approaches to be able to serve the multiple needs of a multifaceted, multicultural clientele. Rather than learning a collection of theories, students will understand how various theories complement each other, and how each contributes to a fuller understanding of the human being. Throughout the course, students will apply and reflect on their learning to develop their own integral, comprehensive approach to this fascinating topic.
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PSY-8122 - Career and Lifestyle Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course focuses on the theory, application, and skills needed to provide basic career and lifestyle counseling. The developmental and longitudinal changes people experience across the life span are critical to vocational planning. Information covered includes a survey of career development theories and research, career choices, service delivery models, assessment, application of counseling skills, life transition points, educational and career resources, needs of special populations, and professional issues.
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PSY-8121 - Psychology of Aging Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course deals with the biological and psychological changes that occur within adults over time (intra-individual changes) and the extent to which these changes occur at different rates among different individuals (inter-individual differences). Current research will be examined.
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PSY-8120 - Child and Adolescent Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course explores human development from conception through adolescence. Through reading, research and interaction with fellow students and faculty, this course provides opportunities to experience concepts and theories of healthy cognitive, emotional, and social experiences that can be carried into adulthood. Prevention, effects and recovery from unhealthy experiences will be addressed.
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PSY-8119 - Adult Psychopathology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course addresses the way psychopathology is conceptualized, as well as how adult psychopathology is diagnosed. Students will make critical appraisal of current diagnostic systems and consider the cultural and social contexts of psychopathology.
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PSY-8117 - Life Coaching Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course outlines the profession of life coaching and is designed for individuals who have taken previous upper level courses in psychology and are interested in understanding the fundamentals of the coaching profession. During this course, students review coaching ethics, standards, interview skills, communication, strategies and tools, motivation and inspiration, problem solving, goal setting, and life design. This course is ideal for individuals who are interested in completing a full certified coaching program.
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PSY-8116 - Group Therapy Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
Group work, including group counseling, group therapy, and other type of change-oriented groups, involves special dynamics and processes and requires specific leader behaviors and characteristics. In this course, the student will examine, apply, and analyze these factors of group work. Videotapes of group therapy sessions conducted by expert and beginning therapists will form a basis for learning.
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PSY-8115 - Family Systems Approaches to Addiction Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course provides an overview of family systems approaches to addiction. Course material addresses addiction with respect to etiology, intervention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment from a family systems perspective. In addition, the course explores how multicultural systemic issues influence family systems approaches to dealing with addictions.
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PSY-8114 - Co-Occurring Disorders Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course is designed as a comprehensive overview of co-occurring disorders (sometimes termed dual diagnosis). This course explores several mental disorders that commonly co-occur with substance use disorders. Students will focus on current research and diagnostic criteria (found in the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Primary and secondary differential analysis, assessment, intervention, and treatment will be addressed along with legal, ethical, and cultural considerations.
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PSY-8113 - Addiction and Related Disorders Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course is designed as a comprehensive overview of research in addictions and related behaviors. This course presents information on addiction, related disorders, and their associated compulsive behaviors by identifying clinical syndromes associated with substance use disorder, eating disorders, and gambling disorder. In addition, this course explores other compulsive disorders such as sex addition, workaholism, and compulsive buying. These disorders and compulsive behaviors will be analyzed through a series of case buying. These disorders and compulsive behaviors will be analyzed through a series of case studies, while identifying DSM criteria that are associated with these disorders. This course also examines etiological theories, screening tools, assessment processes, and treatment interventions as well as their co-occurrence with each other or with other psychiatric disorders.
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PSY-8112 - Addiction Assessment and Treatment Planning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course provides an overview of addiction assessment and treatment planning. Course materials address addiction assessment testing, biopsychosocial interviewing, the Addiction Severity Index (ASI), multi-axial diagnosis, treatment placement based on the ASAM Patient Placement Criteria, and treatment planning.
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PSY-8111 - Clinical Survey of Substance Abuse and Dependence Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
In this course, students will focus on the dynamics of substance abuse and dependence including illegal and prescription drugs, alcohol, and marijuana. Students will gain a basic understanding of the psychopharmacology of substance use and abuse, and explore the physiological and psychological processes of dependence. In addition, students will explore the interrelatedness of substance abuse with various factors in the individual, the family, and the society.
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PSY-8110 - Psychology of Violence Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
Incidences of violence range from interpersonal violence including domestic violence/spousal abuse to workplace violence to worldwide terrorism. In this course, students will become aware of the causes of violence, the impact on victims of violence, and programmatic attempts to reduce violence. Students will explore current research regarding violence and learn prevention and treatment strategies to use in both professional and personal settings.
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PSY-8103 - Cognition, Emotion, and Motivation Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course examines the critical concepts of emotion, motivation, and cognition. Topics to be explored include biological, cognitive, cultural, and social influences on emotional development and behavior. The importance of motivation on emotion will be reviewed. The relationship between emotion and cognition will be evaluated as will the concept of emotional intelligence. Emotions and their impact on mental health also will be discussed.
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PSY-8101 - Multicultural Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course is designed to increase awareness of multicultural issues in psychology, including some issues of social diversity, with a focus on theoretical models, research, and techniques and interventions for working with culturally diverse populations in various settings from therapy to the workplace. .
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PSY-8100 - Theories of Personality Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course reviews the various theoretical perspectives that have attempted to define and assess personality. Students will trace modern psychology’s efforts to explain differences in individual personalities as well as identify universal characteristics. Finally, students will analyze and compare various concepts regarding personality and assess their application in understanding why people act in the manner that they do.
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PSY-7115 - Tests and Measurements in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course will introduce the student to psychological test construction, administration and interpretation as well as current research in the area. Commonly used tests to assess cognition and personality will be studied.
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PSY-7109 - Planning Dissertation Research in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course focuses on how (a) to conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation (b) to develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature and (c) to critically review and write about underlying theoretical frameworks that lay the foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for students to conduct an extensive search of the peer-reviewed research literature in their topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for their dissertation.
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PSY-7108 - Qualitative Research Design Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
Examination of qualitative methods for studying human behavior including grounded theory, narrative analysis, ethnography, mixed methods, and case studies.
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PSY-7107 - Statistics II Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course is an intermediate examination of statistical analyses commonly used for research in behavioral and health sciences. It prepares the doctoral student with the skills required to plan, conduct (using SPSS), report, and interpret quantitative statistical analyses. Topics include: basic statistical knowledge, probability theory, exploratory data analysis, assumptions for statistical tests, parametric and nonparametric tests. Specific analyses include: correlation, regression (simple, multiple, and logistic) basic ANOVA and advanced ANOVA techniques.
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PSY-7106 - Quantitative Research Design Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course provides students with the skills essential for designing experimental, quasi-experiment, and survey studies; analyzing the data collected in these studies; and interpreting the results of data analyses. Students will explore designs and statistical techniques to use with their envisioned dissertation research.
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PSY-7105 - Tests and Measurements Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This doctoral course in tests and measurements provides the student conceptual as well as practical guidelines in test and scale construction. This course will expose the students to concepts and theories including: the nature of psychological constructs and concepts, measurements and measurement error, item construction and analysis, Classical Test Theory, and the different approaches to establishing instrument reliability and validity. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills and concepts to a construct relevant to their own research interests.
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PSY-7104 - Statistics I Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course provides an introductory exploration of statistics for the graduate student. It includes instruction on the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics, and introduces inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts to help the student understand statistical methodology used in psychology, and also more generally, developing a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.
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PSY-7103 - Research Methods Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This doctoral-level course focuses on the fundamentals of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to psychological research. Students gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach, and how these methods apply to a research topic. The concepts of critical evaluating, published research, research ethics, and developing a research proposal will also be explored and practiced. In addition, it provides a foundation for subsequent research courses in preparation for successfully completing a dissertation at Northcentral University.
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PSY-7102 - Scholarly Writing and Professional Communication in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on scholarly and academic writing with an overarching goal of critically analyzing and thoughtfully synthesizing research findings while adhering to APA style and the principles of Academic Integrity. The emphases in this course are on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches; (b) critically review and summarize research studies; (c) write comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature; (d) formulate ideas and convey them in an ethical fashion; and (e) use feedback to revise and improve one’s work.
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PSY-7101 - Foundations for Doctoral Study in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students in this course will be prepared for success in the psychology doctoral program at Northcentral University. Students are introduced to relevant academic communities, professional standards, and doctoral-level expectations. Essential skills needed to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology are emphasized, including critical thinking, comprehending complex scholarly texts and research articles, and effective written communications. Students will identify and begin to explore potential research topics for use in their doctoral studies and complete the course with a roadmap to navigate their way to degree completion.
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PSY-7014 - Social Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will examine the social aspect of human behavior. In particular, you will analyze core social motives that have evolved to ensure human survival, and how these are applied in the social situation. You will closely examine theory and research in key areas of social psychology such as attitudes, bias, social influence, aggression, pro social behavior, and the social nature of the self.
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PSY-7013 - Human Development and Functioning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this doctoral-level course, students will study human development and functioning. Students will engage in a variety of activities and applications through which they will explore theories and research of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development across the lifespan. Students will also develop an appreciation of ontological, epistemological, and methodological issues within the field of developmental science.
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PSY-7012 - Professional Ethics, Law, and Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This doctoral-level course examines legal and ethical issues as they relate to the profession of psychology. Students will review basic principles of ethics, how ethics are applied in professional settings, and specifically, how various ethical challenges present themselves in the practice of psychology. Ethics scenarios common to practice settings, teaching, and consulting are explored.
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PSY-7011 - History and Systems of Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This doctoral-level course surveys the development of modern psychology. Students will be presented with a thorough introduction to the philosophical underpinnings and theoretical progression of the study of the mind and behavior. Key theorists and schools of psychology will be reviewed, and their influences on contemporary psychology will be examined.
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PSY-6425 - Survey Methods and Organizational Behavior Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course covers development and usage of organizational surveys and related topics, such as attitude measurement, job satisfaction, and the evolving uses of surveys in organizations. Students will examine the challenges faced by consultants in designing and implementing organizational surveys, such as potential sources of bias, respondent recruitment, data collection methods, and ethical issues related to privacy.
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PSY-6423 - Training and Evaluation Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will develop an understanding of employee development and performance improvement by examining methods of workforce training and program evaluation in organizations. Topics include adult instruction strategies, competency modeling for professional development, job retraining, skills-gap and needs analysis, return on investment, transfer of training, and organizational change. The role of training in organizational health will be highlighted and emerging trends in training methods for a global, virtual workplace will be discussed.
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PSY-6422 - Work Motivation and Employee Engagement Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course reviews motivational theories and evaluates their application to employees and groups within the workplace. Aspects of employment engagement to be covered include job enrichment, employee voice, employee empowerment, and employee satisfaction.
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PSY-6421 - Psychology of Leadership Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students in this course will examine leadership in the modern global workplace, emphasizing the elements of a good leader. Trait, behavior, contingency, and contemporary theories of leadership and management will be explored. Legal and ethical/moral issues as well as gender and sociocultural challenges will also be highlighted throughout the course. Additional topics include: leadership skill development, managing conflict, developing a leadership vision, leading groups and teams, and leadership versus management. Students in this course will gain an understanding of their own leadership style and improve their leadership self-awareness.
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PSY-6415 - Capstone Course: Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The Capstone course in Industrial/Organizational Psychology is an opportunity to demonstrate a range of professional competencies and communication skills, reflecting the knowledge, critical thinking, sensitivity to ethics and diversity, and appreciation of research that has been acquired during the MA program. The Capstone course culminates in a review of the evidence based practices related to a specific issue in the field of Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
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PSY-6414 - Small Group Theory and Team Processes Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines the small group and team processes in the workplace. Topics include team development, effectively leading teams, the establishment of group norms and goals, group problem solving and decision making, and resolving group conflict. Both research and application of concepts are highlighted.
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PSY-6402 - Applied Statistics Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course provides an introduction to descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, margin of error, and the visual representation of statistical data. The emphasis in this course on developing a conceptual knowledge of how statistics are used in psychological research, applied psychology, and everyday life. The student will learn about many of the commonly used statistical tests in psychological research such as t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, regression, and chi-square along with their interpretation. The application of these concepts to experimental psychological research, applied psychology, and everyday life will be explored in this class.
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PSY-6401 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on how psychological principles are applied in work settings. An evaluation of current models and theories used in Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology will be explored. Research methodologies as well as the history of I/O psychology will be investigated. Key concepts include teamwork, work motivation, and job analysis.
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PSY-6304 - Coaching for Health and Wellness Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on evidence based approaches for coaching others in the prevention of illness, promotion of health, and living optimally with chronic illness. Key processes such as goal setting, identification of obstacles, and use of personal support systems will be addressed.
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PSY-6301 - Health Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course considers the biopsychosocial model of health and how it interacts with important issues in health such as primary prevention and change. Specific cognitive behavioral change approaches, communicating with diverse groups in health care and psychological factors in chronic and end state diseases are addressed in this course.
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PSY-6206 - LGBTQ Affirmative Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course addresses the full spectrum of human sexuality and the individual’s development of sexual and gender identities. Identities that intersect with sexuality such as sex and race will be examined in the context of sexual orientation and across cultures and history. This course will also explore gay-affirmative treatment modalities and historical developments relevant to this population.
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PSY-6205 - Capstone Course: Gender Diversity Studies Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The Capstone course in Gender and Diversity Studies is an opportunity to demonstrate a range of professional competencies and communication skills, reflecting the knowledge, critical thinking, sensitivity to ethics and diversity, and appreciation of research that has been acquired during the MA program. The Capstone course culminates in a review of the evidence based practices related to a specific issue in the field of Gender and Diversity Studies.
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PSY-6203 - Introduction to Gender Variance Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course offers a comprehensive biological, social and psychological focus on psychotherapy and counseling with individuals who identify as gender variant and their families. Assessment and treatment are presented through a nonpathologising lens that allows for ethical and competent treatment of the myriad of individuals who identity as members of the transgender community.
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PSY-6202 - Psychology of Gender Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course addresses the full spectrum of human sexuality and the individual’s development of sexual and gender identities. Identities that intersect with sexuality such as sex and race will be examined in the context of sexual orientation and across cultures and history. This course will also explore gay-affirmative treatment modalities and historical developments relevant to this population.
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PSY-6201 - Psychology of Sex and Sexuality Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will examine dimensions of human sexuality from physiological, psychological, social and cultural points of view. Topics include an overview of psychosexual development, cultural and individual variations, gender identities, and gender roles.
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PSY-6121 - Theories of Psychotherapy and Counseling Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines major research in the social psychology of groups. Topics such as group dynamics, formation, structure, performance, leadership, conflict, intergroup relations, and change, will be addressed and analyzed. Please note that this is not a clinical course, and does not address the therapeutic functioning and conduct of groups.
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PSY-6120 - Temperament and Emotions Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Theory and research on emotions point to the role of emotions as an evolving survival mechanism. In this course, you will explore the relation between emotions, physiology, and cognition, and the cultural contexts in which emotions occur. After examining the characteristics of different emotions, you will explore their role in the development of personality and in overall mental health and illness. Finally, you will consider how emotions may need to evolve to meet the demand of the future.
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PSY-6117 - Psychology of Trauma Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will consider trauma as a threat to the meaning system of individuals, a threat that occurs in a cultural and ethnic background and has different meanings for diverse individuals. You will consider how individuals can prevent or prepare for traumatic events, the special situation of trauma in the military, and the role of meaning reconstruction in trauma recovery.
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PSY-6116 - Psychology of Prejudice & Discrimination Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is designed as a comprehensive, research-based overview of the major theories of prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination. It involves a psychological analysis of different forms of prejudice and discrimination, including racism, sexism, and ageism. The development, maintenance, and prospects for reduction of prejudice and discrimination against minority groups are studied.
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PSY-6115 - Psychology of Learning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course addresses learning and learning theory in a variety of contexts. Basic learning principles are explained, including behaviorist and cognitive approaches. Learning is considered as it impacts behavior change and as it takes place in the classroom, in problem solving for community or civic problems, and in electronically mediated social learning. The special ways that learning occurs in later ages are also examined.
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PSY-6114 - Psychological Tests and Measurements Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course provides students with a fundamental background in assessment and measurement as well as the ability to evaluate the psychometric strengths and weaknesses of individual psychological tests and measurements, using both conceptual and applied. This course focuses on psychometric principles (e.g. validity and reliability), test and items analysis, test construction, and applications of psychological testing in a wide variety of settings.
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PSY-6111 - Death and Dying Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on psychosocial, cultural, behavioral, and ethical issues related to death and dying. Topics include attitudes toward and preparation for death, hospice and palliative care, and end of life decisions. The importance of religion, rites, and rituals in grieving will be discussed. The types and expression of grief throughout the lifecycle also will be examined.
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PSY-6110 - Clinical Survey of Substance Abuse and Dependence Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will cover the broad scope of substance use and dependence, and its impact on individuals, families, and society. This includes the costs of substance misuse in terms of lives lost, health problems, and financial losses. Students will explore theories and models of both etiology and treatment of substance use disorders, including the exploration of a variety of both legal and illicit substances, as well as the physiological and psychological processes of dependence. Prescription drug abuse, abuse of over the counter (OTC) drugs, and dietary supplements will also be covered, and gender and diversity issues are highlighted.
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PSY-6109 - Career and Lifestyle Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on the theory and skills needed to provide basic career and lifestyle counseling. During this course, students will explore the importance of careers and lifestyle from a developmental point of view. Research and measurement, which are key to career counseling, will also be evaluated, as well as various career counseling strategies and ethics required in this field. The students will have the opportunity, using scenarios and pilot proposals to exercise skills in career counseling.
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PSY-6107 - Adult Psychopathology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores the concept of psychopathology and perspectives on what distinguishes mental health from mental illness and how research and assessment is applied to this field. Various diagnostic categories will be examined as well as the origins, prevention, and interventions related to psychopathology.
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PSY-6105 - Capstone Course: Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The Capstone course in Psychology is an opportunity to demonstrate a range of professional competencies and communication skills, reflecting the knowledge, critical thinking, sensitivity to ethics and diversity, and appreciation of research that has been acquired during the MA program. The Capstone course culminates in a review of the evidence based practices related to a specific issue of interest to the student in Psychology.
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PSY-6104 - Positive Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The course focuses on the positive psychology principles of positive subjective experience, positive traits, and positive institutions. It is an emerging shift within the field of psychology. The emphasis includes a scientific investigation of the latest research of positive psychology focusing on positive human strengths such as optimism, gratitude, hope, and justice. The course offers an opportunity for theoretical exploration and practical application.
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PSY-6103 - Human Communication: Interviewing Skills Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Verbal and nonverbal communication and listening skills, as well as the ethics that apply to communication are covered in this course. Communication in the workplace, between couples, and across cultures are also key topics of this course. The student will think critically about what makes public speaking influential and also study the cutting edge in communication, electronic mediated communication.
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PSY-6102 - Multicultural Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course prepares the student to deal with essential issues in a multicultural society from both an individual and professional standpoint. Topics to be covered include the emergence of multicultural psychology, considerations for psychological research and testing, and how multiculturalism promotes a plurality of world views and communication styles. The formation and impact of stereotypes and prejudices in the light of establishing and maintaining a cultural identity in a multicultural society will also be examined. Finally, the student will become familiar with differences in access and views on physical and mental health services in different cultures.
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PSY-5404 - Tests and Measurements in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces students to the basic theories, applications, and issues of psychological testing and assessment. Students will review the historical, professional, and legal context of utilizing tests and measurements in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Specifically, students will explore the purpose, development, application, and evaluation of psychological tests as applied to employee selection, placement, and performance appraisal. Students will also examine special topics related to use of psychological tests in the workplace, including: the merits of cognitive ability, personality, and vocational testing, technological advancements in testing, and the testing of special populations.
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PSY-5303 - Behavioral Nutrition Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces the student to evidence-based knowledge on the interaction between nutrition, behavior, and mental health. Various theoretical perspectives on nutrition and health-related behavior change will be introduced. Key behavioral nutrients are identified and the current research on how these nutrients interact with brain functioning and mental health will be assessed. Ethical issues in applying sound scientific knowledge on behavioral nutrition to diverse gender, ethno-cultural and age groups will also be addressed.
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PSY-5302 - Stress and Coping Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines sources, manifestations, and coping models for stress. A special emphasis is put on the role of thought and cognition in mediating stress. Students will develop an array of tools for dealing with stress in themselves and others.
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PSY-5110 - Applied Statistics Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces the graduate student to the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics and inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts and helping students to understand statistical methodologies used in psychology, and, more generally, to develop a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.
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PSY-5109 - Theories of Personality Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will examine, compare and contrast key personality theories. Drawing on classic and contemporary sources, students will consider Freudian, post-Freudian, behaviorism, and social learning theories. Students will also examine more contemporary theories on personality, such as those put forth by cognitive, humanistic, and positive psychology.
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PSY-5108 - Cognitive and Affective Basis of Behavior Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will examine the foundational theories related to cognitive and emotional influences on behavior. Themes to be traced will include process and application of memory, perception, language, problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity. The course will examine how emotion impacts cognition as well as the interactive characteristics of human cognition and affective functioning.
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PSY-5107 - Research Design Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The focus of this course is on the fundamentals of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to psychological research. Students will gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach, and how these methods apply to the student’s area of research interest. This course also provides students with background on research ethics and skills in conducting literature reviews and scholarly writing.
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PSY-5106 - Biopsychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Biopsychology explores the relation between the function and structure of physiology, especially the brain, and psychological functioning. This course examines the divisions in biopsychology, how the brain grows, what causes it to be damaged, and how it can regenerate or be repaired. Ethical considerations related to research and developments in neuropsychology and applications of the findings of biopsychology to improve the human condition will also be raised.
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PSY-5105 - Social Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is an overview of social psychology. Specifically, this course will explore how others affect an individual’s perceptions, thoughts, emotions, and behavior. We will examine current research as well as historical social psychological concepts, and explore how social psychological constructs impact one’s world.
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PSY-5104 - Theories of Human Development and Functioning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, the student will study human development from conception through late adulthood. Students will engage in a variety of activities and applications through which they will explore, understand, and reflect upon key theories and concepts related to physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development across the lifespan. Students will develop an appreciation of the impact of the cross-disciplinary importance of the study of human development.
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PSY-5103 - Professional Ethics, Law, and Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines legal and ethical issues as they relate to the profession of psychology as practiced in any and all settings. Course content includes standards of practice, state licensing and practice regulations, research requirements, and professional ethics codes. This course is required for all graduate students in psychology. Students are encouraged to consider the issues from the perspective of their own specialty and interest, and to complete their assignments from their perspective of interest.
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PSY-5102 - History and Systems of Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course presents a history of psychology beginning with the early Greeks to the modern era. It shows how philosophy combined with developments in natural science and experimental physiology to form the major schools of psychology today. Developments in the fields of psychology will be assessed in the context of the cultures and the times in which they occurred. Psychological theories, knowledge of important individual and events, and critical thinking are emphasized.
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PSY-5101 - Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is an introduction to graduate studies in Psychology. Students will have an opportunity to review psychological theories, ethical principles, and history of the field, including the emergence of diversity in the field of Psychology. In addition, graduate level skills, such as academic integrity, effective use of the Northcentral Library, comprehending complex scholarly texts and research articles, and use of APA form and style in professional communication will be introduced. Students will complete the course with a roadmap to navigate their way to completion of their educational aspirations.
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PSY-4500 - Capstone in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Prerequisites: Completion of all required PSY courses
This Capstone Course in Psychology represents a culmination of the student’s undergraduate learning. Students will integrate their knowledge and professional growth through an examination of psychology’s history, current status, and future directions. They will plot the development of psychology as a science in relation to other important historical and cultural developments. Students will also review their own progress in psychology, and make plans for their upcoming education.
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PSY-4210 - Research Project Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The student develops an individual research project, either library or field, under the direction of a faculty member. The student will choose a project that addresses the application of psychological theory to local, state, or global issues. Information literacy, search skills, and the formulation of a research paper will also be a focus of the course.
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PSY-4209 - Psychology and Health Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines the contributions and application of psychological principles and theories to the promotion and maintenance of health and prevention and treatment of illness. It explores the various influences on physical and mental health, including culture and lifestyles, and provides a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection. Topics covered include historical perspectives of health, stress and coping strategies, chronic illness, communicable diseases and pain management.
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PSY-4208 - Human Sexual Behavior Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students in this course will examine how social, psychological, biological, and cultural influences shape sexual practices, expressions, identities, and representations. Additional topics covered include theoretical perspectives on sexuality, issues in sex research, conception, pregnancy, and childbirth, sexuality and the life cycle, attraction, intimacy, and love, sexuality education, and legal issues related to sexuality.
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PSY-4207 - Psychology of Learning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Psychology of learning covers behavioral learning theory, including classical and operant learning. In addition, this course focuses on more contemporary theories of learning, such as cognitive, neuropsychological and technology enhanced learning.
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PSY-4206 - Critical Thinking and Personal Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course students will learn the skills of critical thinking. They will learn how to read, think, and write critically, to recognize and evaluate scholarly sources, and to make a logical argument. Students will also learn the basics of recognizing a fallacious argument from a sound argument. The skills learned in this course will serve students in their personal lives as well as help them meet their academic and career goals.
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PSY-4205 - Principles of Mental Health Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is an introduction and overview to the field of mental health counseling. Topics covered include theoretical perspectives on counseling, current trends, ethics and types of interventions. It examines the clinical, school, group, career and marriage counseling and the activities and challenges mental health counselors may find in these settings.
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PSY-4204 - Adult Aging Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Aging describes the natural process and developmental changes that occur during adulthood, a much longer span of time than during childhood and adolescence. This course provides an overview of adult developmental issues, with specific focus on the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of adult development and aging. Changes in sensory processes, cognitive functions, and social relations, among other factors, and the effects of these changes on the psychological health of the individual as well as ways of coping with these stressors will be examined. End of life issues also will be discussed.
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PSY-4203 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students in this course will explore how psychological theories and research can be applied in organizational settings to improve individual, team and organizational performance. Topics to be covered include methods of job analysis, employee selection, training, performance appraisal, work motivation, leadership and organizational culture. Students will develop an understanding of human behavior in work settings, the variables that have an impact of workers and their productive efficiency and strategies to improve productive human relations in such settings.
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PSY-4202 - Community Psychology: Prevention and Change Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is intended to introduce students to the concepts, values, and practices of Community Psychology. Topics that will be covered include the history of community psychology, stress and social support, social intervention, primary prevention and health promotion, citizen empowerment, and community diversity. This course also will assist students in identifying traditionally underserved populations and their needs.
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PSY-4201 - Forensic Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Forensic psychology involves the application of psychological principles to the justice system, which includes law enforcement, the courts, corrections and victim services. This course presents an overview of topics that are of concern both to psychologists and members of the legal system. Concepts that will be addressed include criminal profiling, eyewitness testimony, crime scene investigation, victim services, and offender rehabilitation and treatment. Psychological principles related to this course include social interaction, cognitive processes, development issues and physiological processes.
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PSY-4200 - Overview of Substance Abuse and Addiction Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores various topics in the study of substance abuse addiction. It provides a general overview of the physical, emotional, psychological and cultural aspects of the addictive process on the individual and the various systems that impact misuse, addiction, treatment, and recovery. Topics covered for each category of drug include: general information, incidence and prevalence, mechanism of action, specific psychological and physical effects and treatment approaches.
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PSY-3012 - Evolutionary Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Evolutionary psychology is the application of Darwin’s theory of evolution to problems of mind and behavior. In this course, we examine major topics of evolutionary psychology such as adaptive design of human brain/mind, parent-child conflict, kinship, mating strategies, altruism, and cooperation, aggression/warfare, culture, and morality and religion. Students will have the opportunity to apply the concepts in this course to real life observations and scenarios.
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PSY-3011 - Introduction to Statistics in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will acquaint students with basic mathematical and statistical concepts used in psychological research. Students will study descriptive and inferential statistical techniques that are often encountered in behavioral research. The course will provide an exposure to many basic quantitative areas of data analysis in psychology, and make connections to other applications in life.
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PSY-3009 - Multicultural Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores the impact of culture and cultural diversity on behavior, research methodology, and practice in the field of psychology. It introduces theories used by cross-cultural psychologists; examines the influence of culture on personal development, perception, cognition, gender, health, emotions, communication, and personality; and studies cultural awareness and self-identity.
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PSY-3007 - Ethical and Professional Issues Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This is an introductory course in ethics, which is designed to provide a general overview of psychology and related fields and to prepare undergraduate students for more advanced coursework in the areas of ethics and law in the helping professions.
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PSY-3006 - Social Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This basic course provides a general overview of social psychology with specific focus on topics such as the balance between personality and social forces in influencing behavior, how and why we form and end relationships, and the role of the media in promoting aggression and violence. These and other topics will be examined through the lens of social psychology theory and research. Students will have a chance to reflect on the everyday application of social psychology and to learn more about themselves, and their world as a result.
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PSY-3004 - Basic Research Methods in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course provides an overview of research design and methods in the behavioral sciences. The content focuses on core research concepts as well as how creativity and critical thinking can lead to new findings through a systematic research process. The course will also prepare the student for more advanced research courses to follow at the graduate level.
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PSY-3003 - Human Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores the physical, cognitive, moral, and emotional-social development of individuals across the life span. The student will be introduced to the basic theories of human development and how maturation, genetics, and the environment impact development throughout the lifespan.
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PSY-3002 - Abnormal Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course helps students acquire a better understanding of the origins of maladaptive behaviors and their related problems. Students will explore ethical, legal, and social issues related to abnormal psychology and have the opportunity to apply the study of abnormal to everyday life. Students will be examining factors that contribute to the development of mental disorders, and different courses of treatment for them. Finally, students will do an in depth study of a mental disorder that has significant impact on today’s society.
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PSY-2000 - Introduction to Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Psychology is the biological study of behavior and mental processes. This course introduces the student to major concepts, theories, and fields within psychology. Major topics of modern psychology will be covered including methodology, physiological psychology, development, sensation and perception, learning and memory, thinking and cognition, abnormal/clinical psychology, social psychology, positive psychology, and applied psychology. The student will have the opportunity to apply these principles to case studies and to everyday life examples. This course is a pre-requisite for all undergraduate PSY courses if not previously taken.
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