Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Composition

This is a process-based writing class that focuses on academic writing, reading, and critical thinking as expressed in expository and analytical writing assignments through 5 to 7 substantial essays over the course of the semester. Develops fluency, coherence, style, effectiveness, and literary analysis. Students must pass this course with a C- or better to fulfill general competency requirements and to proceed to ENG 123. Prerequisite: ENG 103. Placement into this course is determined by ACT/SAT scores. Placement may be challenged by the Writing Placement Exam. (3 units)

Intermediate Composition

Continued practice in writing with emphasis on critical thinking, argument, analysis and interpretation of multicultural readings and other interdisciplinary expository materials. Includes the writing of a major research paper (or report) in addition to several shorter essays requiring various types of documentation. Fieldwork required. This course requires LiveText. Prerequisite: ENG 113 with a grade of C- or better unless the student has demonstrated writing competence through a written placement exam. Note: Students must successfully complete this course with a grade of C- or better to fulfill general education requirements and to begin any literature course. (3 units)

Intermediate Algebra

This course satisfies the math competency for the general education requirements. It will include instruction in the following areas; roots and radicals, quadratic equations and inequalities, graphing relations and functions, systems of equations and inequalities, and matrices and determinants. Prerequisite: MAT 095 or sufficient SAT, ACT or math placement exam scores. (3 units)

General Psychology

This introductory course is a survey of the processes of adjustment, growth, learning, remembering, perception, sensation, socialization, and emotions. It is meant to better equip students to understand and articulate their own life experiences, as well as improve their understanding of the behavior of others. This course is a prerequisite to all other courses in Psychology. (3 units)

Reading & Writing in the Behavioral Sciences

In this course, students learn to write formal manuscripts using APA style. They also learn to read, understand, and critically evaluate behavioral science research as presented in academic journals and conferences. Learners in this course build foundational skills needed to succeed in their future courses. Students may only earn credit for either BEH250 or BEH255. (3 units, Online and Professional Studies)

Introduction to Research Methods

This course provides a comprehensive overview of both quantitative and qualitative research methods used in behavioral science research, along with an understanding of the ethical considerations and other challenges involved in good research design. Additional topics include measurement, sampling, and qualitative and quantitative data analysis. Prerequisite: BEH 250. Students may only earn credit for either BEH 256 or BEH 290. (3 units)

Epistemology and Worldview

This course examines the basic models of integrating the Christian faith and modern behavioral sciences, including the development of Biblical examples of worldview and epistemology. Emphasis is placed upon the student's development of a personal theory of integration. (3 units)

Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

Introduction to descriptive statistics and probability, probability distributions, estimation, tests of hypotheses, chi-square tests, regression analysis, and correlation with applications in the behavioral sciences. Course emphasizes selection, application, and interpretation of appropriate statistical tests. Includes laboratory applications of statistical software to behavioral science data. Prerequisites: BEH 290 and MAT 115. Students may only earn credit for either BEH 350 or BEH 383. (4 units, Online and Professional Studies)

Intermediate Statistics with Computer Application

Using a statistics software application, this course will examine applied statistics emphasizing correlational methods such as multiple regression and factor analysis, as well as analysis of variance and covariance for analyzing experimental data. Laboratory activities involve selecting the appropriate statistical tests, interpreting the results, and scientific report writing. Prerequisite: BEH 350. Students may only earn credit for either BEH 385 or BEH 391. (4 units, As offered)

History and Systems of Psychology

This course is an overview of the major schools of thought in psychology presented in historical, philosophical and scientific context. The methods of inquiry, terminology and theoretical systems of historical and contemporary psychology will be surveyed. The primary goal is to understand the connections and progressions of psychology throughout its development. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Life-Span Development

The course addresses principles of psychological development across time and culture. Students will understand universal stages of human development, influences on individual differences and the impact of nature and nurture. The course views human development as a unit of interrelated parts, concentrating on the relationships between the mind, body, and the socio-cultural context. Specific consideration is given to issues of integration, culture, and Biblical worldview. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Theories of Personality

This course is a survey of theories of personality emphasizing various viewpoints, unique theoretical perspectives, functions, and development of basic attitudes and belief systems that influence behavior throughout the life span. The course equips students to actively integrate faith (i.e., biblical principles) with the theories discussed. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Tests and Measurements

This course is a survey of the construction, application, interpretation and evaluation of psychological tests. Theory and principles related to psychological assessment and testing will be examined. Tests used to measure general mental abilities, specific abilities and aptitudes, personality, interests and attitudes are surveyed. Prerequisites: PSY 213 and BEH 350 or 383. (3 units)

Cognitive Psychology

This course provides an introduction into the structure and processes of the mind, focusing on topics including perception, attention, memory, decision-making, and consciousness. Students will engage with research examining cognition from a behavioral, information-processing, and a physiological perspective. Additionally, students will engage with the philosophical/epistemological assumptions in the study of cognition, with relevant applications in domains such as artificial intelligence, criminal justice, and theology. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Abnormal Psychology

Study of the dynamics, cultural implications and prevention of abnormal behavior including neuroses, psychoses, character disorders, psychosomatic reactions and other abnormal personality patterns. Textual and lecture attention will be given to the impact of the environment and oppressed populations in relation to abnormal behavior. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Theories of Counseling

A survey of modern theories of therapeutic counseling with emphasis on gaining an understanding of the psychological principles underlying these methods. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Psychophysiology

This course is an introduction to the capacity, limitations, and complexities of the human brain and its relationship to the neural and endocrine processes underlying brain function and behavior. Prerequisite: PSY 213. (3 units)

Overview of the Bible

A general survey of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian writings (New Testament) with special emphasis to the religious and national life of the Hebrew people, the life of Jesus, and the development of the early church. An Online and Professional Studies requirement for Online and Professional Studies degree programs only. (3 units)

Foundations of Christian Thought

An introduction and primer to Christian theology with special emphasis on identifying the importance and development of a Christian worldview, understanding the doctrine of scripture and biblical authority, learning to do theology, comprehending the relationship between truth, faith and reason, and applying a biblical worldview to the Christian life. (3 units)