Psychology
Career Opportunities
After completing their undergraduate degrees, psychology graduates typically earn graduate or professional degrees or pursue employment. Graduate studies include specializations within the field in clinical, cognitive, industrial, social, educational, counseling, or developmental psychology. Employment in psychology-related professional positions include alcohol/drug counselor, child-care worker, geriatric counselor, hospital ombudsman, management trainee, market researcher, mental health specialist, human resources professional, sales representative, and teacher. For more details on the types of careers graduate pursue and details on how to pursue them please visit our Psychology Career Finder.
Prospective Students
If you are interested in learning more about undergraduate studies in the Loyola University Chicago Department of Psychology, please request additional information about Loyola and our program using the Undergraduate Request Form.
Undergraduate Policies and Procedures
Please see Undergraduate Policies and Procedures for academic policies that supersede those of academic units within the University.
Psychology (PSYC)
PSYC 100 Psychological Perspectives on the Experience of Globalization (3 Credit Hours)
Globalization from a psychological perspective. Applying core psychological concepts, research and theory to cross-cultural issues of behavior and development. Topics may include human rights of children, human trafficking, immigration, moral issues of international trade, parenting across cultures.
Knowledge Area: Foundational Societal Knowledge
Students will learn basic concepts and theories and apply them to real-world globalization problems
Outcomes
Students will learn basic concepts and theories and apply them to real-world globalization problemsPSYC 101 General Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: ANTH 100, PLSC 102, PSYC 100, SOCL 101, WSGS 101, or equivalent; please check requirements for declared majors/minors for exceptions
Introduction to concepts, theories, and methods in psychology. Emphasis is given to the scientific study of consciousness and human behavior. Topics include: human development, learning, thinking, perception, personality, testing, mental illness and mental health, biological and social aspects of behavior.
Knowledge Area: Tier 2 Societal Knowledge
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Psychology of Crime and Justice
Students will master basic concepts and key theories and learn to apply them to real-world situations
Outcomes
Students will master basic concepts and key theories and learn to apply them to real-world situationsPSYC 201 Psychology Advising and Career Development (1 Credit Hour)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101, PSYC-BS major
Overview of the psychology major at Loyola and career options in psychology. Introduces students to psychology career development resources. Students will also prepare for opportunities in independent research and internships and plan for a career including creating a resume and CV.
Students will learn about career options in psychology and plan their psychology major to support and develop their career interests
Outcomes
Students will learn about career options in psychology and plan their psychology major to support and develop their career interestsPSYC 225 Psychology of Peace (3 Credit Hours)
Application of psychological theories, concepts, and research to issues of peace and conflict. Areas covered include international conflicts and international peacebuilding (including war, terrorism, and global environmental issues) as well as interpersonal conflicts and conflict resolution (including crime, family violence, and conflict arising from prejudice and perceived threat). Classic theories of peace are also analyzed and connected to psychological theory and research.
Interdisciplinary Option: Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies
Course equivalencies: PSYC 225/PAX225
PSYC 235 Psychology of Human Sexuality (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
This course will explore sexuality as a multi-faceted and diverse phenomenon structured by individual experience, interpersonal relationships, and societal institutions. Topics include anatomy and physiology, intersectionality, power and privilege, sexual diversity, attraction and love, relationships, and sexual health education.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Human Services, Women & Gender Studies
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the biological, psychological and socio-cultural aspects of human sexuality, along with gender and sexual diversity
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the biological, psychological and socio-cultural aspects of human sexuality, along with gender and sexual diversityPSYC 237 Cross-Cultural Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Students will learn about cultural factors that influence cognition, perception, emotion, behavior, motivation, and mental health. Similarities and difference in both explicit and implicit cultural factors will be emphasized. Students will explore their identities, values, and biases. Students will engage in reflection to increase cultural awareness and sensitivity towards others.
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of concepts and research methodologies in cross-cultural psychology; Students will develop critical thinking skills, as well as increased cultural awareness and sensitivity towards others
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of concepts and research methodologies in cross-cultural psychology; Students will develop critical thinking skills, as well as increased cultural awareness and sensitivity towards othersPSYC 238 Gender & Sex Differences & Similarities (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: ANTH 100, PLSC 102, PSYC 100, SOCL 101, WSGS 101, or equivalent; please check requirements for declared majors/minors for exceptions
Overview of psychological research and theory concerning differences and similarities between genders. included....
Knowledge Area: Tier 2 Societal Knowledge
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Human Services, Women & Gender Studies
Course equivalencies: PSYC238/WOST238/WSGS238
Students will understand similarities and differences between genders, comprehend the diversity of ideas about gender and how ideas of gender are determined by societies and cultures
Outcomes
Students will understand similarities and differences between genders, comprehend the diversity of ideas about gender and how ideas of gender are determined by societies and culturesPSYC 239 Understanding Bias and Inclusivity (3 Credit Hours)
Using an intersectional lens, students learn about how privilege, power, and oppression shape ourselves, perceptions of others, and our social world. They consider how ourselves and others are shaped by and operate within the larger social system. Students explore their identities, values, and biases. Students engage in self-reflection to increase self-awareness. Articulate how personal power can be used to create change.
Interdisciplinary Option: Race and Ethnicity, Women & Gender Studies
Identify feelings about course topics; Demonstrate self-awareness of identities and values, including the value of difference; Engage in intergroup dialogue
Outcomes
Identify feelings about course topics; Demonstrate self-awareness of identities and values, including the value of difference; Engage in intergroup dialoguePSYC 240 Psychology-Biology of Perception (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101; For Biology majors: BIOL 102, BIOL 112, and PSYC 101 Introduction to the study of sensory systems, especially vision and audition, emphasizing historical development of the field, multi-disciplinary scientific approaches; recent research and theory on the mechanisms of seeing and hearing; and applications of research to real-world problems
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-PSYC240/BIOL240
Students will understand and be able to explain how knowledge of the functioning of sensory systems is obtained using a variety of experimental methods, how stimulus energy is translated into neural signals, how the brain processes sensory information, and how these processes determine conscious perception
Outcomes
Students will understand and be able to explain how knowledge of the functioning of sensory systems is obtained using a variety of experimental methods, how stimulus energy is translated into neural signals, how the brain processes sensory information, and how these processes determine conscious perceptionPSYC 250 Cognitive Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Overview of cognitive psychology. Topics include: human information processing, object recognition, memory, attention, language production and comprehension, reasoning and problem solving.
Students will understand and be able to explain how knowledge about mental events is obtained using a variety of experimental methods, discuss current empirical research and theories of cognition, understand well established cognitive theories about attention, memory, language processing, reasoning and decision-making
Outcomes
Students will understand and be able to explain how knowledge about mental events is obtained using a variety of experimental methods, discuss current empirical research and theories of cognition, understand well established cognitive theories about attention, memory, language processing, reasoning and decision-makingPSYC 251 Learning and Memory (3 Credit Hours)
This course surveys the field of learning and memory, including working, episodic, and semantic memory, nonassociative learning, classical and operant conditioning, skill learning, and neuroplasticity. Behavioral, neuroscientific, and clinical perspectives will be considered.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
PSYC 273 Developmental Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Survey of theory and research relevant to human growth and development with emphasis on physical, cognitive, and social development from infancy through adolescence.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services
Course equivalencies: X-CPSY273/PSYC273
Students will demonstrate understanding of basic theory and research in human development, and will develop skills in critical examination of psychological research as applied to current issues in human development
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of basic theory and research in human development, and will develop skills in critical examination of psychological research as applied to current issues in human developmentPSYC 274 Lifespan Development (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
This course provides a survey of current theory, research, and applications on development (physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development) that are present at each stage of the lifespan. Normal development is emphasized; however, special human circumstances are also explored.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of theory and research in development across the lifespan; Students will develop critical thinking skills, applying research to contemporary issues in lifespan development
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of theory and research in development across the lifespan; Students will develop critical thinking skills, applying research to contemporary issues in lifespan developmentPSYC 275 Social Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the field of social psychology; including topics such as social cognition, impression formation, social influence, attitude formation and change, stereotyping and prejudice, aggression, pro-social behavior, and group behavior.
Knowledge Area: Tier 2 Societal Knowledge
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Psychology of Crime and Justice
Students will demonstrate the ability to think critically about fundamental theoretical approaches within social psychology, scientific methods of hypothesis testing, and potential applications of social psychology that address real-world problems
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate the ability to think critically about fundamental theoretical approaches within social psychology, scientific methods of hypothesis testing, and potential applications of social psychology that address real-world problemsPSYC 276 Philosophy of Mind (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PHIL 130
This course is a study of the different philosophical views regarding the nature and the existence of the mind and its relation to material bodies. Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the various philosophical views and problems regarding the mind and its relation to matter.
PSYC 277 Environmental Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Human behavior is at the root of environmental degradation. This course examines how psychological processes influence behaviors that help or hurt the environment and how psychology can promote conservation. The course identifies theory-based interventions and evaluates their effectiveness. Class activities allow students to practice applying psychology to promote environmental sustainability.
Students will be able to identify the psychological bases of environmental problems; Students will be introduced to theories and practical strategies to change behavior as it relates to environmental issues
Outcomes
Students will be able to identify the psychological bases of environmental problems; Students will be introduced to theories and practical strategies to change behavior as it relates to environmental issuesPSYC 280 Psychology of Judgment and Decision-Making (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PHIL 130 or equivalent; please check requirements for declared majors/minors for exceptions; Students can only take one course from PHIL 279, PSYC 279, PSYC 280
This course examines the forces that shape decision-making, from the individual and day-to-day to the shaping of public policy. Psychological research on cognitive biases, economic models, and philosophical perspectives on deductive reasoning and what makes a good decision will be discussed.
Knowledge Area: Tier 2 Philosophical Knowledge
Students will learn fundamental principles and theories - including various biases and decision-making errors, and learn to apply the course to improve thinking, problem-solving, and decisions
Outcomes
Students will learn fundamental principles and theories - including various biases and decision-making errors, and learn to apply the course to improve thinking, problem-solving, and decisionsPSYC 302 History & Systems in Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
A systematic treatment of the historical roots and foundation of psychology. Special emphasis is placed on relating past trends to current developments in the field.
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of psychology as a science, including major schools and theoretical frameworks, and make connections between past trends and current approaches
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of psychology as a science, including major schools and theoretical frameworks, and make connections between past trends and current approachesPSYC 304 Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
This course is an introduction to fundamentals of statistical analysis in psychology.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services
Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze data, interpret the results of research using basic statistical methods, and understand the conceptual foundation, appropriate use, and limitations of these statistical methods
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze data, interpret the results of research using basic statistical methods, and understand the conceptual foundation, appropriate use, and limitations of these statistical methodsPSYC 306 Research Methods in Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 304
Logic and theory of the scientific method. Basic principles of scientific research methodologies employed in approaching major problem areas in psychology. This class is writing intensive.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Urban Studies
Students will demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to formulate research questions and hypotheses, develop research designs, operationalize variables and gather data in an ethical manner, choose appropriate statistical methods for analyzing data, interpret results of statistical analyses, write a scientific paper in APA style, and critically evaluate research
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to formulate research questions and hypotheses, develop research designs, operationalize variables and gather data in an ethical manner, choose appropriate statistical methods for analyzing data, interpret results of statistical analyses, write a scientific paper in APA style, and critically evaluate researchPSYC 307 Psychology of Language (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Analysis of language as symbol-behavior specific to humans, language structure and competence, language performance, and the neurophysiological basis of language. Methods for investigating language processing, acquisition, bilingualism, and language disorders will be considered.
Students will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the study of language
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the study of languagePSYC 310 Lab in Program Evaluation (3 Credit Hours)
Special attention is given to the fundamental skills needed to evaluate human service programs including research methodology and research diplomacy. The strengths and weaknesses of several evaluation strategies will be discussed in terms of scientific validity, ethical constraints, and political acceptability.
Students apply their developing evaluation skills in a class project and present the data in a written report
Outcomes
Students apply their developing evaluation skills in a class project and present the data in a written reportPSYC 311 Lab in Psychobiology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: (BIOL/STAT 335 or PSYC 304) and (NEUR 101, PSYC/BIOL 240, or PSYC 382/BIOL 284); OR for PSYC-BS and Cognitive/Behavioral Neuroscience majors: PSYC 306 and (NEUR 101, PSYC/BIOL 240, or PSYC 382/BIOL 284) Minimum grades of C-
Introduction to the structures and functions of vertebrate nervous systems, how these systems compute and process information; laboratory experience with concepts and methods in the neurophysiological study of the bases of perception and other behaviors. Hearing is used as an example. PSYC 311 is cross-listed with BIOL 313.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-PSYC311/BIOL313
Students will learn the concepts of basic neurophysiology and the theory of signal detectability, and have experience applying the logic and formulation of neurophysiological theories of perception
Outcomes
Students will learn the concepts of basic neurophysiology and the theory of signal detectability, and have experience applying the logic and formulation of neurophysiological theories of perceptionPSYC 312 Lab in Cognitive Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
This course is a laboratory practicum in the techniques of cognitive neuroscience, with an emphasis on electrophysiological and hemodynamic methods of measuring nervous system function during cognitive and behavioral tasks and the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will develop scientific research skills as they relate to the field of cognitive neuroscience, including experimental design, physiological methods of data collection, statistical analysis and interpretation, and reporting findings
Outcomes
Students will develop scientific research skills as they relate to the field of cognitive neuroscience, including experimental design, physiological methods of data collection, statistical analysis and interpretation, and reporting findingsPSYC 313 Lab in Behavioral Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
Provides an understanding of the structure and function of the brain as it relates to behavior through empirical data collection and analyses. Course objectives will be met through demonstrations, hands-on laboratory experience with different behavioral assays, histology, an evaluation of scientific literature, and scientific communication via poster presentations.
Develop a breadth of neuroscientific knowledge and skills involving critical thinking, research ethics, experimental design, animal behavior, data collection and analysis, and dissemination of scientific findings in different formats
Outcomes
Develop a breadth of neuroscientific knowledge and skills involving critical thinking, research ethics, experimental design, animal behavior, data collection and analysis, and dissemination of scientific findings in different formatsPSYC 314 Lab in Experimental Psychology: Cognition (3 Credit Hours)
Laboratory demonstrations, experiments, and microcomputer applications in the area of human cognition. Topics vary, but include learning, memory, thinking and language processing.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students gain skills and experience in experimental design, measurement, statistical analyses, and report writing as they relate to research on human cognition
Outcomes
Students gain skills and experience in experimental design, measurement, statistical analyses, and report writing as they relate to research on human cognitionPSYC 315 Lab in Tests & Measurements (3 Credit Hours)
Topics include: theory of psychological testing and assessment; historical context and related legal and ethical considerations; basics of test construction and evaluation, including reliability, validity, and standardization; and common measures of personality, attitudes, and ability and their psychometric properties. PSYC 338 is recommended.
Students will learn to demonstrate proficiency with psychological testing terminology and concepts
Outcomes
Students will learn to demonstrate proficiency with psychological testing terminology and conceptsPSYC 316 Lab in Experimental Psychology: Sense & Perception (3 Credit Hours)
Laboratory demonstrations, experiments, and microcomputer applications to the psychophysical and physiological study of sensory systems. The course stresses the research methods and quantitative measures that are used in characterizing sensory processes, especially visual and auditory systems.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students gain skills and experience in experimental design, measurement, statistical analyses, and report writing as they relate to research in sensory processes
Outcomes
Students gain skills and experience in experimental design, measurement, statistical analyses, and report writing as they relate to research in sensory processesPSYC 318 Lab in Developmental Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Lecture and laboratory on empirical studies of developmental processes in humans. Focus is on research in particular content areas within developmental stages (e.g., infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood) and research on changes in behavior across time.
Students will demonstrate skills and knowledge of developmental methodology, designing, conducting, and analyzing and interpreting the results of a research project, and writing a research paper in APA format
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate skills and knowledge of developmental methodology, designing, conducting, and analyzing and interpreting the results of a research project, and writing a research paper in APA formatPSYC 321 Laboratory-Social Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Lectures, demonstrations, readings, and individual or group research projects illustrating various methods, such as observation, interviewing, archives, standardized tests, and experimentation, are used to learn about topics such as group influences on the individual, attitudes, prosocial and antisocial behavior, and perception of self and others.
Students will demonstrate skills and knowledge of methodology in social psychological research; designing, conducting, and analyzing and interpreting the results of a research project, and writing a research paper in APA format
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate skills and knowledge of methodology in social psychological research; designing, conducting, and analyzing and interpreting the results of a research project, and writing a research paper in APA formatPSYC 327 Lab on Body Image (3 Credit Hours)
Lab on Body Image focuses on the scholarly study of body image and eating disorders, as well as how research is conducted in the field. Students will complete smaller labs and a larger research project in the field.
1) Learn about the scholarly study of body image and eating disorders; 2) Learn general research methods in Psychology and specific ones pertaining to the topic; 3) Learn about computer packages, including SPSS to analyze data
Outcomes
1) Learn about the scholarly study of body image and eating disorders; 2) Learn general research methods in Psychology and specific ones pertaining to the topic; 3) Learn about computer packages, including SPSS to analyze dataPSYC 331 Psychopathology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Nature and causes of maladjustment and mental disorders. History of mental illness, diagnosis, research, and treatment of mental disorders.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Psychology of Crime and Justice
Course equivalencies: X-CPSY333/PSYC331/ACPSY280
Students will demonstrate understanding of current approaches to researching maladaptive behavior, current views of maladaptive behavior, major categories of "mental disorders", factors contributing to development of problems, different types of intervention strategies, and appreciation of social, ethical, and legal issues
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of current approaches to researching maladaptive behavior, current views of maladaptive behavior, major categories of "mental disorders", factors contributing to development of problems, different types of intervention strategies, and appreciation of social, ethical, and legal issuesPSYC 332 Affective Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
Affective experiences promote human adaptability and survival, and healthy emotion function is critical to promoting physical and psychological well being. The course will provide an overview of fundamental neurobiological correlates associated with emotion function and processing affective stimuli.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms associated with emotion processing and the techniques used for studying these mechanisms
Outcomes
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms associated with emotion processing and the techniques used for studying these mechanismsPSYC 338 Psychology of Personality (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101 Facts and principles of personality study
Nature of personality, its structure, development, expression, and measurement. Exposition and evaluation of personality study methods with critical review of traditional and modern theories of personality.
Interdisciplinary Option: Psychology of Crime and Justice
Course equivalencies: X-CPSY338/PSYC338
Students will acquire an understanding of different personality theories, critically evaluate these theories, and apply what they have learned
Outcomes
Students will acquire an understanding of different personality theories, critically evaluate these theories, and apply what they have learnedPSYC 340 Psychology of Women (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Review of psychological aspects of women's experiences. Topics include psychological aspects of biological events such as menarche, pregnancy, menopause; aspects of women's work and family roles; and mental health issues relevant to women.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Women & Gender Studies
Course equivalencies: PSYC340/WOST340/WSGS340
Students will demonstrate knowledge of critical contemporary issues impacting women and girls, and critically evaluate/analyze academic theory, social institutions, and media
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate knowledge of critical contemporary issues impacting women and girls, and critically evaluate/analyze academic theory, social institutions, and mediaPSYC 346 Psychopathology of Childhood (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 273
Consideration of the nature and causes of maladjustment, emotional disorders, and learning disabilities in children in conjunction with approaches to prevention and remediation.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Psychology of Crime and Justice
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the major categories of childhood psychopathology and methods of diagnosis, theories of causes of maladjustment and mental illness in children and adolescents, and types of intervention strategies
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the major categories of childhood psychopathology and methods of diagnosis, theories of causes of maladjustment and mental illness in children and adolescents, and types of intervention strategiesPSYC 348 Psychology of Adolescence (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 273
In-depth study of adolescence using an interdisciplinary approach. Integration of cultural, social, psychological, and biological perspectives.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Psychology of Crime and Justice
Students will appreciate the various factors leading to similarities and differences in the experience of adolescence in America and in other cultures, and will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the study of adolescence
Outcomes
Students will appreciate the various factors leading to similarities and differences in the experience of adolescence in America and in other cultures, and will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the study of adolescencePSYC 349 Maturity and Aging (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 273 with a C- or better
Overview of theory and research relevant to middle age and aging. Topics include personality, cognitive and social functioning as well as biological functioning. Applications to life situations such as living arrangements, provision of health services, and retirement are discussed.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Human Services
Students will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the study of maturity and aging, and learn to recognize and reject myths and stereotypes associated with adult development and aging
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the study of maturity and aging, and learn to recognize and reject myths and stereotypes associated with adult development and agingPSYC 350 Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
An overview of theory and research relevant to the study of the developing child through the use of neuroscience methods; topics may include: brain plasticity and maturation, sensorimotor systems, attention, memory, executive function, language, social cognition, and typical and atypical development.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will gain knowledge of basic theory and research in the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience and will acquire understanding of brain and behavior relationships in a developmental context
Outcomes
Students will gain knowledge of basic theory and research in the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience and will acquire understanding of brain and behavior relationships in a developmental contextPSYC 352 Neuropsychology (3 Credit Hours)
Neuropsychology is the interdisciplinary study of the relation between human brain function and behavior. This course is an undergraduate survey of topics related to neuropsychology, including neuroanatomy, psychophysiology, and cognitive neuroscience. A primary goal of the course is to introduce undergraduate students to neuropsychological concepts in research and applied settings.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Successful completion of this course leads to mastery of CNS function and structure; The ability to integrate this information will allow students to develop and test hypotheses about brain-behavior relationships
Outcomes
Successful completion of this course leads to mastery of CNS function and structure; The ability to integrate this information will allow students to develop and test hypotheses about brain-behavior relationshipsPSYC 353 Applied Social Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 275
Applications of principles and methods of social psychology to social issues and problems in such areas as: law and justice, health and health care, education, natural and built environments, population, work, life and intergroup relations.
Students will demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in social psychology to real-world issues and problems
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in social psychology to real-world issues and problemsPSYC 355 Neuroethics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: students must have taken at least two philosophy courses
This course focuses on ethical considerations emerging from contemporary research in neuroscience, as well as neuroscientific techniques for studying ethical questions. Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the ways in which the study of ethics and neuroscience inform each other
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics
Course equivalencies: X - PSYC355/PHIL355
PSYC 356 Consumer Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Introduction to the field of consumer psychology; including topics such as consumer attitude formation and change, persuasive communication and consumer behavior, the psychology of advertising, consumer decision making, personality and consumer behavior, identity and consumer behavior, and culture and consumer behavior.
Students will understand and apply theoretical approaches within consumer psychology and the psychology of advertising
Outcomes
Students will understand and apply theoretical approaches within consumer psychology and the psychology of advertisingPSYC 360 Understanding Prejudice (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Prejudice from a psychological perspective. Applying psychological concepts, research, and theory to understand the origins and consequences of prejudice as well as potential remedies.
Interdisciplinary Option: African Studies and the African Diaspora, Psychology of Crime and Justice, Race and Ethnicity, Women & Gender Studies
Course equivalencies: BWS360/WSGS360
Students will learn the origins of stereotypes and prejudice, the nature of prejudice against different social groups, how people are affected by prejudice and cope with prejudice, and the processes that may change stereotypes, reduce prejudice, and improve intergroup relations
Outcomes
Students will learn the origins of stereotypes and prejudice, the nature of prejudice against different social groups, how people are affected by prejudice and cope with prejudice, and the processes that may change stereotypes, reduce prejudice, and improve intergroup relationsPSYC 362 Industrial/Organizational Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: C- or better in PSYC 101 Outcomes: Students will demonstrate understanding and ability to think critically about how the science of behavior is applied to work environments
Study of human behavior in work settings. Topics include principles of employee selection, job analysis, motivation and morale, managerial behavior, organization development and socialization, leadership, conflict management, work design and group process.
Course equivalencies: PSYC362 / PSYC364
PSYC 368 Counseling (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the theory, techniques, and research behind major helping interventions, focusing on individual psychotherapy with adults.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services
Students will critically evaluate different approaches to intervention in terms of their theoretical underpinnings, applications, goals and effectiveness, and will develop the ability to utilize some basic counseling skills
Outcomes
Students will critically evaluate different approaches to intervention in terms of their theoretical underpinnings, applications, goals and effectiveness, and will develop the ability to utilize some basic counseling skillsPSYC 369 Psychology Honors Readings (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: Membership in the Psychology Honors award program and approval of the Department Honors Advisor
Directed readings and development of a formal research proposal on a topic of interest to the student and the faculty member with whom he/she has chosen to work. Students are not restricted to working with the faculty member whose name is listed in the schedule of classes.
Students will write a literature review and research proposal for the honors thesis
Outcomes
Students will write a literature review and research proposal for the honors thesisPSYC 370 Psychology Honors Research (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 369
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Course equivalencies: PSYC370H / PSYC370
Students will conduct research, analyze and interpret data, and write a thesis
Outcomes
Students will conduct research, analyze and interpret data, and write a thesisPSYC 371 Psychology of Political Behavior (3 Credit Hours)
Examination of the determinants of political judgments and decision; including topics such as voting preference, stereotypes and political thinking, racism and political behavior, ideology and public opinion, the effect of the media on political thought.
Understanding of core theoretical and methodological approaches commonly applied to the study of political psychology
Outcomes
Understanding of core theoretical and methodological approaches commonly applied to the study of political psychologyPSYC 372 Psychology & Law (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Introduction to the areas of overlap between psychology and the law. Topics include roles of psychologists in legal settings, accuracy of eyewitness testimony, jury processes, accuracy of polygraph examinations, and issues surrounding the insanity defense.
Interdisciplinary Option: Psychology of Crime and Justice, Sociolegal Studies
Students will learn to analyze biases in the U.S. jury system, elucidate the weaknesses of eyewitness testimony, outline the issues in the insanity defense, understand the issues in Rape Trauma Syndrome and Battered Spouse Syndrome, understand the methods and effects of scientific jury selection, understand the complex issues surrounding confessions, and view the US justice system in a social justice context
Outcomes
Students will learn to analyze biases in the U.S. jury system, elucidate the weaknesses of eyewitness testimony, outline the issues in the insanity defense, understand the issues in Rape Trauma Syndrome and Battered Spouse Syndrome, understand the methods and effects of scientific jury selection, understand the complex issues surrounding confessions, and view the US justice system in a social justice contextPSYC 373 Health Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Survey of psychological and behavioral influences on how people stay healthy, why they become ill, and how they respond when they do become ill. Topics include: health behavior and primary prevention, stress and coping, patient-physician interaction, and management of chronic illness.
Interdisciplinary Option: Bioethics, Human Services
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the complex interaction of an individual's psychology and physical health, as well as understanding of different intervention and prevention programs, the structure of the health care system, and the various roles psychologists play in this system
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the complex interaction of an individual's psychology and physical health, as well as understanding of different intervention and prevention programs, the structure of the health care system, and the various roles psychologists play in this systemPSYC 374 Community Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Prevention of mental disorder and promotion of well-being, primarily through creating more mentally healthy environments, but also by enhancing individual resilience. Recognizing the toxicity of psychosocial stressors such as inequality, poverty, alienation, and discrimination, community psychologists also fight for social justice through empowerment of oppressed groups and policy advocacy. Understanding of the methods of community psychology; effects of societal, cultural, and environmental influences on psychological and community well-being.
Interdisciplinary Option: Human Services, Neuroscience
PSYC 375 Psychology of Addiction (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Survey of historical, demographical, and statistical aspects of substance abuse. Abuse of alcohol and drugs, as well as eating disorders, may be considered. A variety of theoretical models and interventions are discussed.
Interdisciplinary Option: Psychology of Crime and Justice
Students will demonstrate understanding of the psychopharmacological effects of various substances, major research findings in the area of substance abuse, and prevention and intervention techniques
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of the psychopharmacological effects of various substances, major research findings in the area of substance abuse, and prevention and intervention techniquesPSYC 376 Psychology of Religion (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the major issues, theories and empirical approaches in the psychology of religion; effect of religion on beliefs, motivations, emotions and behaviors.
Understanding of the relationship between religion and psychological variables (eg, adjustment, prejudice, and prosocial behavior)
Outcomes
Understanding of the relationship between religion and psychological variables (eg, adjustment, prejudice, and prosocial behavior)PSYC 377 Psychology of Music (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
Engagement in musical activities is common across all human cultures. This course will introduce students to the interdisciplinary field of psychology of music and will focus on how humans perceive and are affected by music, how we create music, and how music is integrated into human life.
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms associated with emotion processing and the techniques used for studying these mechanisms
Outcomes
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms associated with emotion processing and the techniques used for studying these mechanismsPSYC 378 Drugs and Behavior (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: NEUR 101
This course will introduce students to neuropsychopharmacology. Acute and long term effects of addictive drugs and drugs used to treat psychiatric disorders on neural function and behavior are discussed by integrating human and preclinical animal studies. Major types of drugs of abuse, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiolytics will be discussed.
Knowledge of the mechanisms of action of drugs, including illicit drugs and drugs used to treat psychiatric disorders
Outcomes
Knowledge of the mechanisms of action of drugs, including illicit drugs and drugs used to treat psychiatric disordersPSYC 381 Advanced Statistical Analysis-Computer:Social Science (3 Credit Hours)
Expanded treatment of topics covered in PSYC 304 with emphasis on using standard computer analysis packages (SPSS).
Students will demonstrate the ability to discuss theoretical assumptions of various statistical techniques, choose the appropriate statistical test in a variety of situations, use SPSS to enter data and perform a statistical analysis, and interpret the results of statistical analyses
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate the ability to discuss theoretical assumptions of various statistical techniques, choose the appropriate statistical test in a variety of situations, use SPSS to enter data and perform a statistical analysis, and interpret the results of statistical analysesPSYC 382 Behavorial and Cognitive Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: NEUR 101 (formerly PSYC 202 /BIOL 202)
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms, underlying mental events and the technologies used for studying these mechanisms
Outcomes
Students will understand theories regarding brain mechanisms, underlying mental events and the technologies used for studying these mechanismsPSYC 383 Computational Neuroscience (3 Credit Hours)
Introduces computational methods to understand neural processing in the brain. Levels of representation from low-level, temporally precise neural circuits to systems-level rate-encoded models, to information-theoretic approaches. Emphasis on sensory systems, primarily vision and audition, most readily demonstrating the need for such computational techniques.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Appreciation that many aspects of neuroscience cannot be understood without appropriate mathematical or computational frameworks, and ability to adeptly apply these frameworks in the various domains of neuroscience
Outcomes
Appreciation that many aspects of neuroscience cannot be understood without appropriate mathematical or computational frameworks, and ability to adeptly apply these frameworks in the various domains of neurosciencePSYC 385 Practicum in Peace Activism (3 Credit Hours)
Students will learn how to recognize and navigate the psychological pitfalls that accompany work as a peace activist. Topics include building programs, recruiting volunteers, managing media messages, avoiding burnout, handling conflict within organizations, and securing funding for peace activities. Psychological constructs and theories such as group dynamics, perceived control, learned helplessness, attitude change, and altruism will be used to increase understanding of processes related to peace activism.
Course equivalencies: PSYC385/PAX385
PSYC 386 Psychology Seminar: Selected Topics (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 101
An upper-level, intensive seminar on selected aspects of psychology.
Students will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the selected topic
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of major theories, research methodologies, and empirical knowledge in the selected topicPSYC 387 Seminar in Behavorial and Cognitive Neurosciences (3 Credit Hours)
Lecture/discussions will focus on issues central to behavioral neuroscience, emphasizing human and animal mental processes and neural information processing mechanisms. Students will read primary research papers and practice analytical skills in class discussion and presentations. Presentations and exams will promote critical thinking and a general understanding of current issues in behavioral and cognitive neurosciences.
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Students will become familiar with principles of cognitive and behavioral approaches to the study of the neural bases of behavior; Students will also learn how to critically read primary research papers and present these papers to the class
Outcomes
Students will become familiar with principles of cognitive and behavioral approaches to the study of the neural bases of behavior; Students will also learn how to critically read primary research papers and present these papers to the classPSYC 388 Laboratory in Neuroscience I (4 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: NEUR 101, BIOL 251; and students must be either a Molecular/Cellular Neuroscience Major, a Cognitive/Behavioral Neuroscience major, or a Neuroscience Minor
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
Course equivalencies: X-NEUR301/PSYC388/BIOL373
Students will demonstrate understanding of several research designs and methodologies of use in neuroscience research and will gain experience with basic neuroscience laboratory techniques
Outcomes
Students will demonstrate understanding of several research designs and methodologies of use in neuroscience research and will gain experience with basic neuroscience laboratory techniquesPSYC 390 Internship in Psychology (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 304 and approval via an internship application due on the 5th Friday of the previous semester
Capstone service-learning experience for psychology majors, involving application and development of psychological knowledge and skills through an internship (100 hours) in a human service organization or applied research setting, combined with regular class meetings, reading and writing assignments. Students arrange placements and complete a project on site. Application details may be found here: https://luc.edu/psychology/undergraduate/internshipinpsychology. Practical, pre-professional job skills, critical analysis and connection between theory and practice, on topics of: human service agency operation; effective working relationships; professional communication; cultural competence; values and ethics.
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
PSYC 397 Independent Research (3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: PSYC 306 and approval of internship coordinator
Interdisciplinary Option: Neuroscience
This course satisfies the Engaged Learning requirement.
Students will gain experience in all aspects of psychological research, including literature review, formulating hypotheses, designing and conducting research, analyzing data and interpreting results, communicating the results of research in written reports
Outcomes
Students will gain experience in all aspects of psychological research, including literature review, formulating hypotheses, designing and conducting research, analyzing data and interpreting results, communicating the results of research in written reportsPSYC 399 Special Studies in Psychology (1-3 Credit Hours)
Pre-requisites: permission of instructor and department
Students will gain experience (eg, integrating research results from various sources, conducting research) working directly with a faculty member on a current topic in psychology