Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Students in this degree program examine the theories and history of the workings of the human mind by studying aspects of developmental, organizational and abnormal psychology. Graduates of this program are inclined toward professions that involve a high level of human interaction such as politics, law, counseling, human services, education, law enforcement, military service, and public management.

 

Credits

122

(41 Courses)
 

Cost Per Credit

$ 250

 

Total Tuition

$ 30,500

(Before Transfer Credit)
 
 
 
 
Core Requirements
(34 Hours)
NAME
DESCRIPTION
CREDITS
CHFD342
Human Life Span Development
3 hours

This course is a survey of human development across the life span. Course content includes terminology, principles, and theories related to genetic and environmental influences on physical, cognitive, emotional and social development.

MATH302
Statistics
3 hours

This is an interactive course designed to help students achieve a greater understanding of the statistical methods and models available to analyze and solve business management problems. The course is designed for students majoring in a business administration or management course of study. Successful completion of this course will provide students with a working knowledge of the principles of statistics, the ability to analyze and solve problems involving probability, and a working knowledge of averages and variations, normal probability distributions, sampling distributions, confidence intervals and testing statistical hypotheses. The emphasis of the course will be on the proper use of statistical techniques and their implementation rather than on mathematical proofs.(Prerequisite: MATH110).

Pre Reqs: College Algebra(MATH110)

PSYC101
Introduction to Psychology
3 hours

The course introduces students to the art and science of Psychology. Course emphasis is on applying the "science of human behavior" to a variety of settings: vocational, personal, academic, and clinical. Course content introduces the history of psychology, major theories of personality and learning, current research and developmental issues. The course has a holistic approach and integrates the biological basis of behavior, social factors, learning and the unique coping styles of the individual to understand human behavior.

PSYC221
Personality Theories
3 hours

This course provides a broad overview of theories of personality. Course content includes psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic perspectives, and examines contributions of major theorists from each school, key theoretical points from each perspective, critiques of the value (and the limitations) of each theory.

PSYC303
Learning and Cognition
3 hours

This course examines basic learning processes within the context of classical, instrumental, and operant learning situations. Course content focuses on classical conditioning, instrumental learning, principles of reinforcement, punishment and avoidance conditioning, stimulus generalization and discrimination, retention and forgetting, nature and functioning of memory, and learning and performance of motor skills.

PSYC304
Perception
3 hours

This course provides an introduction to the study of how humans organize and interpret stimulation arising from their environments. Course content includes a review of theory, methodology, and research findings. Illustrative case studies will be explored, particularly with regard to disorders of perception.

PSYC305
History and Systems of Psychology
3 hours

This course examines the major antecedents of modern psychological theories and methodology. Course content focuses on the history of psychology as a field of scientific inquiry, including an overview of development of schools of thought, prominent figures, and key theories. (Prequisite: PSYC101).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Psychology(PSYC101)

PSYC400
Experimental Psychology I
3 hours

This course is the first in a two-course series that provides an introduction to the experimental method, including research design, data gathering, hypothesis testing, review of literature, and writing formal research reports.

PSYC401
Experimental Psychology II
3 hours

This course is the second in a two-course series that provides an introduction to the experimental method, including research design, data gathering, hypothesis testing, review of literature, and the writing of formal research reports. Students will apply what they have learned in PY400 to the analysis, critique and interpretation of case studies in psychological research, and will examine psychologists' ethical principles and codes of conduct.(Prerequisite: PY400)

Pre Reqs: Experimental Psychology I(PSYC400)

PSYC406
Psychopathology
3 hours

This course surveys syndromes of psychopathology, by reviewing etiology, symptomatology, and treatment. Psychological, neurobiological, and genetic approaches to understanding mental disorders are considered. Topics also include depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, personality disorders, memory disorders, and childhood disorders.

SCIN100
Introduction to Biology
3 hours

This course is an introduction to the biological systems within the associated environments. It includes a basic introduction to biological systems and the interaction of these systems in the ecosystems that they form. Concurrent enrollment in corresponding Lab Course is required.

SCIN101
Introduction to Biology Lab
1 hours

This laboratory demonstrates both qualitative and quantitative techniques associated with biological science. The course is designed for students in the sciences to learn how to make observations about biological phenomena. It will enable the students to answer questions and solve problems involving nomenclature and physical properties associated with the biological sciences. The course involves study through interactive simulation laboratories designed to help reinforce and build upon the concepts presented in the SC100 - Introduction to Biology course. Students access the simulations by installing and listening to CD-ROM technology that is provided to all enrolled students. Concurrent enrollment in corresponding Lecture Course is required.


Major Requirements
(15 Hours)
NAME
DESCRIPTION
CREDITS
CHFD215
Introduction to Child Development
3 hours

This course addresses the research and theory of child development from conception through the end of childhood. Topics include the child’s emotional, perceptual, and intellectual development, with attention to the social, cultural, and biological context in which children develop. Practical applications of theory and research will be emphasized.

CHFD220
Human Sexuality
3 hours

This course is an overview of the biological, psychological, cultural, and behavioral aspects of human sexuality and family life. The overall theme of the course focuses on attitudes and responsible sexual behavior. Key topics include how culture, society, and history have impacted our understanding of human sexuality.

CHFD307
Child and Adolescent Development
3 hours

This course is a study of theories, research and practical interventions concerning the psychological development of the child from conception to puberty. Course content focuses on biological, intellectual, emotional and social development, and the dynamics of family, peer, school and other environmental influences.

CHFD308
Infant-Toddler Development
3 hours

This course is an examination of the behavior and development of children. Course topics cover issues of care throughout the periods of infancy and toddlerhood.

PSYC301
Advanced Social Psychology
3 hours

This course is an advanced study of relationships among individuals and groups. Course content focuses on intimate relationships, prejudice, group cooperation, competition, aggression, and negotiation, and the application of social psychological theories and research methods in the study of social issues in field settings. Using critical thinking skills to achieve an advanced level of learning, students will conduct in-depth research and submit a major written paper. (Prerequisite: PSYC201).

Pre Reqs: Introduction to Social Psychology(PSYC201)

PSYC324
Psychology of Addiction & Substance Abuse
3 hours

This course examines contemporary theories of addiction-related disease processes, the relationship between addictions and the workplace and family, and available treatment modalities.

PSYC343
Adult Development
3 hours

This course is an in-depth study of the developmental processes from the transition to adulthood through old age. Course content examines the ways adults construct meaning, including intellectual, moral, and personality development. Gender and culture are highlighted, and particular emphasis is placed on understanding the influence of context on adult development.

PSYC360
Psychology of Terrorism
3 hours

This course is an introduction to terrorist cults and personalities. Studies focus on a variety of aspects related to terrorist organizations and individuals. Course content will cover a variety of aspects related to terrorist organizations and individuals, including Osama bin Laden, Sinn Fein, and Hizballah.

PSYC431
Psychology of Disaster
3 hours

This course focuses on the psychological and physiological human response to natural and man-made disasters. Using clinical research and case histories, students will examine normal and abnormal psychological reactions, the recovery process and principles of mental health care for victims of mass disasters. Differences between natural and man-made disasters are examined and factors that mitigate post-traumatic effects are reviewed. Psychological aspects of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) disasters are also considered.

PSYC432
Psychology of Combat
3 hours

This course is a study of acute and chronic behavioral response to battle. Students will review, analyze, and evaluate the range of psychological responses to combat, from "normal" reactions to variations of "Combat Stress Reaction." Case studies from combat action will provide material for application and synthesis of the concepts presented in the course. Topics include the U.S. military approach to psychiatric management of combat, POW experiences, mental adaptation for future warfare, and stress associated with other forms of conflict, such as peacekeeping.

PSYC460
Sports Psychology
3 hours

This course examines the application of psychology to the world of sports. Topics include methods of training and coaching, teamwork and leadership, motivation and stress, and social issues in sport. Current theoretical perspectives of personality factors in exercise, why people exercise, exercise adherence, and the psychological effects of exercise will be investigated. This course is for anyone interested in sports and exercise including coaches and trainers, amateur or recreational athletes, or generally interested students of sport and/or psychology.


Institutional Requirements
(3 Hours)
NAME
DESCRIPTION
CREDITS
COLL100
Foundations of Online Learning
3 hours

This course is designed to provide a solid foundation for undergraduate study in the online environment. Students will be introduced to learning theory, the tools available in the online classroom and campus, and online research. Identification of personal learning style allows students to improve their study/learning techniques and prepares them to succeed in college level courses. Students will be introduced to formatting and citation styles. APUS policy and procedure is addressed. There is an emphasis on written communication to assist students in the transition to the online environment.


General Education
(34 Hours)

Final Program Requirement
(3 Hours)
NAME
DESCRIPTION
CREDITS
PSYC498
Senior Seminar in Psychology
3 hours

This is a capstone course that explores both contemporary issues in psychology and events of particular historical importance to the discipline. Course content will include professional ethics, recent career trends, cross-cultural competency and other selected topics dictated by current events in field. Students will integrate knowledge acquired in previous courses into critical analyses of research, theories and principles that have influenced past and contemporary thought in psychological science. This is a capstone course to be taken after all other Psychology courses have been satisfactorily completed. Student must have SENIOR standing to register.


General Electives
(33 Hours)
Electives are typically courses available at your degree level that are not currently required as a part of your degree program/academic plan. Please visit the catalog to view a complete listing of courses.

Total Credits (122 Hours)
 

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