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Psychology- Forensics Curriculum
EXSC3205 Drugs and Society 3 cr.
This course exposes students to biopsychosocial models used to explain substance use, abuse, dependency, and addiction. Students gain an understanding of genetic, physiological, and neurobiological factors contributing to alcohol use and abuse, as well as familiarity with the impact of these behaviors on the individual, the family, and the community. Specific attention is given to the roles of gender, age, culture and religious training as they relate to pattern of use.
JUST1100 Criminal Justice System & Process 3 cr.
A survey of the various agencies of justice, from administrative, historical and social viewpoints. Acquaints students with the broad field of criminal justice and provides a foundation for successive, more specialized courses.
JUST2202 Crisis Intervention in Criminal Justice 3 cr.
A study of the theoretical and practical basis for accurately assessing and responding to crisis situations unique to the criminal justice profession. Subject areas will include domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and elder abuse. Communication and referral techniques will be covered and emphasized throughout the course.
JUST3100 Threat Assessment and Management 3 cr.
This course will introduce students to the concept of threats, how they are analyzed and assessed, and the techniques and methodologies for managing them. Concepts from a number of disciplines will be covered, with a primary goal of violent prediction and a secondary goal of practical applications of case management. Prerequisites: PSYC1001 and JUST1100.
LGLS2102 Criminal Law 3 cr.
Students study the basic concepts of criminal law. The history of law and classification of offenses, sentences, culpability and defenses are included.
MATH2200 Statistics 3 cr.
An introductory course for students having backgrounds limited to precalculus mathematics. Areas treated are statistical methods, sampling, probability, frequency distributions, estimations, correlation and tests of significance. Prerequisite: C or better in MATH1200 or appropriate placement score.
PHIL3001 Ethics 3 cr.
The student will be able to recognize and define the various types of formal logic processes used in argumentation and distinguish between valid and invalid arguments. The student will be able to identify the six basic types of value systems and distinguish between the variations in the systems.
PSYC1001 Introduction to Psychology 3 cr.
An introduction to the basic concepts and fundamental principles of human behavior using the historical background of psychology as a foundation, and present theory and research as a tool to explore principles of learning, human development motivation, stress, personality, interpersonal skills and mental health.
PSYC1107 Human Growth and Development 3 cr.
This course will emphasize the biological, psychosocial, cognitive, sexual, cultural, and moral development of the individual from conception through old age. The theories of Freud, Erikson, Piaget, Kohlberg, Kubler-Ross and other prominent psychologists will be applied to specific problems in the developmental process.
PSYC2105 Social Psychology 3 cr.
This course provides the student with a working knowledge of how social situations affect behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Topics include attraction, attitudes, prejudice, social roles, aggression, social perception and group dynamics. Readings will explore theories, research and application. Prerequisite: PSYC1001.
PSYC2107 Experimental Social Psychology 3 cr.
This course will introduce students to basic and applied research and experimental research methods in social psychology. Students will read theory and research relevant to the following areas: self-esteem, romantic relationships and attraction, group processes, stereotyping and prejudice, conformity and obedience, attitudes and persuasion, and judgment biases. Students will learn to read and critically evaluate social psychological research while also learning to formulate their own research questions and create methodology to test these questions. The course will emphasize the importance of applied research and will introduce students to fields in which social psychological research is used to solve real world problems (e.g., economics, sports, legal system, business and industry). Prerequisite: PSYC1001
PSYC2203 Understanding Diversity 3 cr.
In the United States, the rapidly changing demographics of the population have increased cultural diversity at all levels in all segments of society. The course will incorporate discussion of gender, socioeconomic status, religion, race, and ethnicity, as they affect various aspects of interpersonal interactions. Students will work “from the inside-out”, learning to recognize the impact of their own cultures on their existing world views, and then comparing their cultural assumptions to those of people from other groups with the goal of developing more positive relations across cultures. Prerequisite: PSYC1001 or SOCI1001
PSYC2400 Forensic Psychology 3 cr.
This course considers the range of topics that are of concern both to psychologists and members of the legal profession. Many legal issues involve questions that are psychological in nature, referring to human behaviors and/or mental processes. For example, what factors are influential in the decisions made by juries? To what extent are eyewitness identifications reliable? When is a confession voluntary? When is a criminal defendant competent to stand trial? When may a criminal defendant be considered insane? What types of psychological defenses can a criminal defendant use in court? What issues are important in the treatment of the mentally ill? How much discretion should judges have in criminal sentencing? Psychology offers a new approach to these types of issues, based on scientific research and empirical knowledge. In this course we will investigate how psychologists work within the legal system as social scientists, consultants, and expert witnesses and how psychological theories, research data, techniques, and methods can enhance and contribute to our understanding of the judicial system. Prerequisite: PSYC1001.
PSYC2405 Correctional Psychology 3 cr.
Correctional psychology refers to the application of psychological research and theory to the field of corrections. This course will consider theory and research relevant to the following areas: perceptions of offenses and offenders, offender treatment and recidivism, and the responsibilities and occupational challenges facing correctional officers. This course will explore social judgment and decision-making within corrections in the context of interrogations, plea negotiations, sentencing, and parole. Students will also examine the efficacy of a restorative justice approach to correctional issues, including initiatives focused on improving the functionality of prisons, repairing the victim-offender relationship, and decreasing recidivism. Prerequisite: PSYC1001.
PSYC2603 Brain and Behavior 3 cr.
This survey course examines how biological factors influence behavior. Topics include organization of the brain, how the nervous system works, how body chemistry affects emotions, and genetic/temperament factors. These topics are applied to normal and abnormal behavior such as learning disabilities, sexuality and psychotic disorders. Prerequisites: PSYC1001 and any TWO of the following: BIOL1001, BIOL1002 , BIOL2503, BIOL2504, BIOL1005, BIOL1006.
PSYC3200 Psychology of Family 3 cr.
This course surveys psychological issues related to the family. Family is defined to include diverse forms. Current theory and research are applied to topics such as partner selection, roles and relationships, stress and coping, domestic violence, and addictions. Prerequisite: PSYC1001.
PSYC3400 Abnormal Psychology 3 cr.
This course studies important issues in mental/health illness. Problems in defining abnormality are discussed. Biological, psychodynamic, behavioral and family systems are examined. The wide spectrum of abnormal behavior from mild to severe as well as current trends in the treatment of these disorders, are discussed. This course may include field trips. Prerequisite: PSYC1001.
PSYC4005 Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences with Lab 4 cr.
This course provides an introduction to the major research methods in the behavioral sciences, to include survey, experimental and field research. The logic, design and execution of the research process are considered with concern for elementary analysis of data. Laboratory exercises in data analysis and interpretation will include introduction to SPSS. Prerequisites: PSYC2107
PSYC4400 Criminal Minds 3 cr.
This course provides opportunity to study of the psychological bases and dynamics of criminal behavior. Topics to be discussed include the “antisocial personality”; the “psychopath”; psychosis and crime; alcoholism and drug abuse; the adolescent offender; the female offender; and “sex” offenders. Prerequisite: PSYC3400.
PSYC4600 Senior Seminar in Psychology 3 cr.
This is a capstone course requiring students to engage in an in-depth examination of a psychological issue. The student will carry out an original research project, provide an educational presentation, and produce a career portfolio. Prerequisites: PSYC4007
SOCI1001 Introduction to Sociology 3 cr.
This course explores the scientific dimensions of the sociological enterprise. Students are introduced to orienting concepts like culture, socialization and role; the constructed nature of human meaning systems; and theory building in sociology
SOCI2001 Criminology 3 cr.
Crime and the law are examined from diverse theoretical perspectives. Students use computer applications to interpret national crime statistics and the results of self-report and victim surveys. Prerequisite: PSYC1001 or SOCI1001.
SOCI2400 Social Problems 3 cr.
This course will provide students with insight into social problems by examining specific social problems from both a sociological/adult view and from a child’s perspective. Issues to be covered include, but are not limited to, gender identity and socialization, violence in society, media influences, substance abuse, and family-related problems such as child abuse and neglect, and family violence. Special emphasis will be given to the current legal and socioeconomic trends that affect both adults and the education of young children, including anti-bias curriculum issues, the changing family, and political influences. Prerequisite: PSYC1001 or SOCI1001.
SOCI3200 Deviance and Social Control 3 cr.
This course examines the forms and causes of individual, professional and organizational deviance. The role of society in the definition and management of misconduct is evaluated. Examples of deviant activities that may be considered include suicide, mental illness, alcoholism, cults, white-collar crime and political corruption. Prerequisite: PSYC1001 or SOCI1001.
ENGL2003 Public Speaking 3 cr.
This course gives students training in the preparation of well-organized speeches, techniques for gaining and holding an audience, and methods to increase student confidence and poise. Students develop the skills to communicate effectively with others through practical experience in formal and semiformal speaking situations. Prerequisite: ENGL1001.
BIOL1001 Biology I 4 cr.
Fundamental principles of biology are studied at the molecular and cellular levels. Topics covered include the chemistry of macromolecules, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and the evolutionary process. Concepts covered in lecture will be applied in a required laboratory section. A grade of C or better is required for graduation in the Pre-Veterinary concentration.
BIOL1002 Biology II 4 cr.
A course study in levels of organization from tissues to populations. Particular attention is paid to organ systems and mechanism of action. The themes of regulation, homeostasis, and diversity thread through the subject matter. The course will culminate by focusing on the interdependency of life at the most complex level of biological organization – the ecosystem. Concepts covered in lecture will be applied in a required laboratory section. A grade of C or better is required for graduation in the Pre-Veterinary concentration.
BIOL2503 Anatomy and Physiology I 4 cr.
A beginning course in the study of the human body with equal emphasis placed on structure and function. Specimen dissection is an integral requirement for both semesters. The first semester deals with the groundwork of the mammalian body, basic tissue types, fundamental aspects of the cell membrane structure and physiology, integumentary, skeletal and neuromuscular systems. Lab required.
BIOL2504 Anatomy and Physiology II 4 cr.
A continuation of BIOL2503, examining the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, endocrine and urogenital systems. The lab experience will allow the student to examine appropriate specimens relating to the systems presented in lecture.
JUST2204 Victimology & Victim Services 3 cr.
This course examines the foundations and historical background of victimology, the victim’s rights movement and victim’s services. New developments in the field of victim assistance will be examined. Specific subject areas of victimization will be studied, including homicide, rape, and helping the helpers (victims’ service providers). Throughout the course, current literature and documents on victim’s rights and services for the 21st century will be emphasized and studied. Course is especially appropriate for Criminal Justice, Legal Studies, and Psychology majors.
ENGL1001 English Composition I 3 cr.
A traditional freshman-level expository writing course concentrating on the principles of rhetoric. Included in the course will be numerous writing assignments, discussion and analysis of selected readings, studied for form and content, and a review of grammar and mechanics. Prerequisite: C or better in ENGF1001 or demonstrated competency in placement testing.
MATH1200 College Algebra 3 cr.
The topics covered include properties of number systems, polynomials, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, radical equations, absolute value equations, systems of equations and inequalities, graphing and verbal problems. Prerequisite: C or better in MATF1001 or MATF1002, or appropriate placement score. A grade of C or better is required for graduation from the Veterinary Technology program.
PSYC3004 Writing for Psychology 3 cr.
This course focuses on the fundamentals of scientific writing and documentation relevant to the field of human services. Embracing the scientist-practitioner model, the course involves students in the writing of literature reviews, research reports, diagnostic summaries, and a variety of mental health documents. Attention is given to ethical writing practic es, APA style, and the impact of managed care guidelines on the practice of documentation. For Psychology majors only. Prerequisites: ENGL1003, PSYC 001; and PSYC2808 OR PSYC2806.
