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Course Descriptions
 
PSY 099  
Freshman Orientation (1)
Only one freshman orientation will count toward graduation. Graded pass/fail.
 
PSY 180  
General Psychology (3)
A basic survey course introducing the student to the methods, concepts and terminology of the field. Note: This course is a prerequisite to all other courses in psychology.
 
PSY 199  
Developing Psychological Skills (1)
An applied course for students interested in enhancing their psychological skills. This course is recommended for persons in performance fields (e.g., psychology, physical education, social work, nursing, performing arts, business, etc.) who wish to improve their mental skills such as emotional and attentional control. Does not count toward Psychology major, minor, or University Studies requirements. Graded pass/fail. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 210  
Career Planning Seminar (2)
Seminar for psychology majors, focusing on career exploration, employment opportunities, the job search process, graduate school, and related issues. Recommended for students in their sophomore or junior year. Does not count toward Psychology major, minor, or University Studies requirement. Graded pass/fail. Prerequisite: PSY 180 and sophomore standing or higher.
 
PSY 221  
Psychology of Human Sexuality (3)
A presentation of the psychological aspects of human sexuality as well as an exploration of contemporary psychological research and theory in the field. Topics are addressed from various perspectives (behavioral, social, cultural and biological) and include homosexuality, pornography, sexually transmitted disease, early sexual learning, adult sexual lifestyles and sexual dysfunction and treatment. Prerequisite. PSY 180.
 
PSY 222  
Sport Psychology (3)
This course is a survey of theory and research regarding the psychological aspects of sport and physical activity. Topics addressed include history of sport psychology, research methods and testing, learning, personality, attention, arousal, intervention, motivation, attribution, aggression, leadership, group dynamics, and audience effects as they relate to athletes, coaches and officials. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 223  
Psychology of Sport Fans (2)
This course will be a survey of theory and research regarding the psychological and sociological significance of sport fandom and spectating. Topics addressed will include the prevalence of sport fandom, factors affecting involvement in sport as a fan and spectator, spectator aggression, the psychological impact of spectating, and the societal impact of spectating. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 245  
Law and Psychology (3)
An overview of the area of forensic psychology. Topics covered include aspects of criminal behavior, the insanity defense, competency, commitment of the mentally ill, and professional issues. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 260  
Lifespan Development (3)
A survey course of theory and research examining the changes and consistencies associated with human development from conception to death. Infancy, childhood, adolescence, and early, middle, and late adulthood will be examined. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 261  
Child Psychology (3)
A study of the biological, social, affective and cognitive aspects of the development of children from conception to adolescence. The implications of this development for present and future behaviors are presented. The research, principles, concepts and theories of child psychology are emphasized. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 262  
Adolescent Psychology (3)
A study of the biological, social, affective and cognitive aspects of the development of adolescents from puberty to young adulthood. The relationship of these developmental aspects to the individual's past, present, and future behaviors are stressed. The research, theories, concepts and principles pertaining to adolescent psychology are presented. Prerequisite: PSY 180. 
 
PSY 263  
Psychology of the Adult (3)
An in-depth study of the normal developmental issues of adults as related to each stage of adulthood. Biological, affective, cognitive, vocational, social and cultural aspects of adult development will be emphasized. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 264  
Psychology of Aging (3)
The study of the biological, cognitive, affective and social aspects of the aging process. The normal and pathological conditions of aging are emphasized. The interaction of the aged and society is also considered. Prerequisite: PSY 180. (Same as GTY 264.)
 
PSY 265  
Psychology of Death (3)
A study of the place of death in the process of human development. Two viewpoints will be stressed: death of self and death of others. Emphasis will be given to the cultural, social, biological and affective aspects related to the final stage of life. Customs, medical practices, financial concerns, legal matters and scientific issues will be considered. Prerequisite: PSY 180. (Same as GTY 265.)
 
PSY 300  
Principles and Methods of Statistical Analysis (3)
An introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics as used in the behavioral sciences and human services. Computer-based techniques of statistical analysis are emphasized throughout the course. Prerequisites: Psychology majors: concurrent enrollment in PSY 301 and a minimum math ACT score of 20, or MAT 105; Non-Psychology majors: a minimum math ACT score of 20 or MAT 105.
 
PSY 301  
Principles and Methods of Psychological Research (3)
An introduction to research techniques and resources in the field of psychology, covering scientific foundations of psychology; empirical research methods, both experimental and non-experimental; data analysis and report writing; literature search procedures; ethical issues. Prerequisites: ENG 101, 102, 204 and PSY 180; concurrent enrollment in PSY 300 and the completion of 12 additional hours of PSY courses.
 
PSY 302  
Topical Seminar (3)
A particular topic or combination of topics will be covered when there is sufficient student interest. Students will be expected to contribute to discussions on the basis of readings in the selected areas. May be repeated. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 303  
Social Psychology (3)
A survey of current theory and research regarding social behavior. Topics addressed include person perception, self-perception, attitude change, influence, pro-social behavior, transgressive behavior and group phenomena. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 304  
Psychology of Learning and Memory (3)
Concerned with the principles and concepts of animal and human learning, and their bases in research. The student is introduced to learning theories. Prerequisites: PSY 300 and 301, or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 305  
Physiological Psychology (3)
An introduction to physiological psychology as the study of the relationships between biological events and behavior. The structure and function of the human nervous system are studied. Prerequisites: BIO 101 or 221 and PSY 300, 301 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 321  
Perception (3)
A study of theories of perception, psychophysical methods, research findings, and the physiological bases of perception with an emphasis on the visual system. Prerequisite: PSY 301 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 322  
Motivation (3)
Presentation of basic concepts of motivation and emotion. Prerequisite: PSY 301 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 324  
Psychological Measurement (3)
This course presents concepts and methods in measurement and scaling as they are involved in experimental and differential investigations. Prerequisite: PSY 301 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 325  
Introduction to Clinical Psychology (3)
An introduction for undergraduate students to the field and profession of clinical psychology. Topics covered include the historical and cultural context of the field, its scientific and theoretical aspects, the nature of psychological assessment, and the various intervention approaches in current use. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 326  
Psychology of Languate (3)
A survey of psychological research on language behavior and the role of language in social and cultural contexts. Emphasis on understanding language processes in both the adult speaker and the child acquiring language. Prerequisite: PSY 180, PSY 301 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 327  
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making (3)
An introduction to behavioral decision making theory and research. Topics include the roles of memory and knowledge organization in critical thinking, logic and reasoning in problem-solving, decision-making under uncertainty, heuristics and biases, and multidisciplinary applications. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 360  
Directed Individual Study (1-3)
Individual programs involving readings or conducting a research project in psychology. Note: Arrangement for faculty supervision is required prior to enrolling. May be repeated to a maximum of nine hours. Does not count toward Psychology major, minor, or University Studies requirements. Prerequisites: approval by a faculty sponsor and the department chair.
 
PSY 373  
Psychology of Consumer Behavior (3)
A survey of current psychological theory and research regarding behavior of consumers. Topics addressed include perception, cognition, learning and memory, emotion and motivation, intentions, buying behaviors, effects of social contexts, effects of cultural contexts, sales interactions and applications to not-for-profit settings. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 390  
Animal Behavior (3)
This course is a survey of categories of behavior and the variables that influence these behaviors across species. Prerequisite: PSY 301 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 403  
History and Systems of Psychology (3)
A survey of the systems and theories of psychology with emphasis on their historical development. Modern psychology is studied in the context of its philosophical roots and the evolution of the other sciences. Prerequisites: PSY 303, 304, 305, and 581 (for psychology majors), or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 437  
Senior Honors Thesis (3)
A faculty-supervised thesis and/or project which allows Honors Program students with a senior standing to undertake advanced research. A thesis paper and/or written review of the exhibit or performance is required.
 
PSY 488  
Cooperative Education (3)
A meaningful, planned and evaluated work experience related to the career and educational objectives of the student for which he/she may receive both academic credit and financial remuneration. May be repeated for a maximum of six credits. Graded pass/fail. Prerequisite: permission of chair.
 
PSY 489  
Cooperative Education (3)
Continuation of PSY 488. Graded pass/fail. Prerequisite: permission of chair.
 
PSY 499  
Senior Honors Thesis (3)
An undergraduate research thesis for outstanding senior majors only. Prerequisite: permission of the department upon nomination by a faculty member.
 
PSY 503  
Psychology of Small Group Behavior (3)
A survey of current theory and research regarding the behavior of individuals in groups. Topics addressed include group formation and development, physical environment, personal characteristics of group members, group composition, group structure, leadership and group tasks. Students enrolled for graduate credit will have additional requirements to fulfill in this course. Prerequisite: PSY 303.
 
PSY 540  
Drugs, Alcohol and Behavior (3)
This course provides a survey of the social, biological and psychological aspects of substance abuse, chemical dependency and addictive disorders. Prerequisite: PSY 180. (Same as CRJ 540.)
 
PSY 545  
Behavior Modification (3)
This course presents assumptions, concepts and methods of behavior modification. Emphasis is on broad psychological theory and application to human problems. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisites: PSY 180 and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 570  
Applied Research Design and Analysis (4)
An advanced course designed to develop a comprehensive, integrated, and applied knowledge of issues surrounding the design, implementation, analysis, and evaluation of psychological research. Topics covered include research ethics, reliability and validity, descriptive and experimental design issues, and advanced statistical techniques. Students will be expected to design, conduct, and report the results of an original research project. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisites: PSY 300 and 301 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 581  
Abnormal Psychology (3)
CoIntroduction to the definition, classification, causes and treatment of abnormal behavior. Research methodologies and findings receive emphasis equal to that of "clinical" or applied considerations. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 584  
Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3)
A survey of current theory and research regarding human behavior in industrial and organizational settings. Topics addressed include selection and placement, training and development, motivation, job satisfaction and performance, leadership, work environment, human factors, engineering and safety. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 589  
Personality (3)
The organization of the psychological characteristics which contribute to the uniqueness of the individual. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 591  
Statistics (3)
Basic concepts of statistics are stressed. Specific topics include techniques dealing with single distributions, some correlational methods, probability, and an introduction to inferential statistics. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 595  
Culture, Language and Personality (3)
Roles of culture and language, personality-language, and personality-culture. Students enrolled for graduate credit will be required to fulfill additional requirements. Prerequisite: PSY 180.
 
PSY 602  
Graduate Seminar (1-3)
Topical seminars in psychology. May be repeated to a maximum of three hours. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 620  
Graduate Seminar in Professional and Ethical Issues (3)
A survey and discussion of the professional aspects of clinical psychology and the ethical standards of the field. Emphasis is placed on the ethical principles and statements of the American Psychological Association in regard to the practice of psychology, the conduct of research, and the use of psychological tests. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 621  
Biological Bases of Behavior (3)
An advanced-level survey of the biological processes that underlie behavior. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 622  
Cognitive Bases of Behavior (3)
An advanced-level survey of the cognitive processes that underlie behavior. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 623  
Social Bases of Behavior (3)
An advanced-level survey of the social processes that underlie behavior. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 624  
Developmental Bases of Behavior (3)
An advanced-level survey of the developmental processes that underlie behavior. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 644  
Graduate Cooperative Education (3)
May be repeated for a maximum of six credits. Graded pass/fail. Prerequisite: permission of chair.
 
PSY 645  
Clinical Measurement and Evaluation I (3)
Emphasis is placed on administration, scoring and clinical interpretation of a variety of intelligence tests. Report writing and research underlying intelligence tests and psychological evaluations are presented. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
 
PSY 650  
Psychometric Theory (2)
The theory, statistical methods and ethical considerations involved in the construction and evaluation of scales and other devices for measurement.
 
PSY 652  
Analysis of Variance (3)
Advanced experimental design and research methodology is combined with a detailed treatment of analysis of variance. Prerequisites: PSY 300 or 591, or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 654  
Evaluation Research (3)
Emphasis on quasi-experimental research designs, sequential and nonparametric statistics, and the use of research methodology in summative and formative evaluation of social programs.
 
PSY 661  
Psycholinguistics (3)
Emphasis on language and cognition, measurement of meaning, language disorders, communication, theory and language, and behavior. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
 
PSY 664  
Psychopathology (3)
Theories and research pertaining to the etiologies, symptoms and prognosis of various behavior disorders are discussed. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
 
PSY 665  
Clinical Measurement and Evaluation II (3)
Emphasis on the theory and application of personality tests used in clinical settings. Practice in the administration, scoring and interpretation of various clinical instruments will be afforded. Prerequisites: PSY 645 and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 670  
Psychotherapeutic Procedures (3)
Theories, practice and research are reviewed with special emphasis on therapeutic procedures. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
 
PSY 671  
Behavior Therapy (3)
An exploration of the learning foundations of behavior therapy together with a review of the methods, applications and research concerning behavior therapy. Prerequisites: graduate standing in psychology and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 672  
Family Therapy (3)
An advanced clinical course with emphasis on the major family therapy theories, ethical issues and consideration of cultural factors in working with families. Practice will be afforded for students in the application of assessment and therapeutic procedures with families. Prerequisites: PSY 664, 670; previous or concurrent enrollment in PSY 667 and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 680  
Advanced Child Psychology (3)
Analysis and appraisal of scientific studies dealing with the problems characteristic of the childhood period. Observations and library research projects supplement class assignments.
 
PSY 681  
Advanced Adolescent Psychology (3)
Analysis and appraisal of scientific studies dealing with the problems characteristic of the adolescent period. Observations, and library research projects supplement class assignments.
 
PSY 682  
Child Clinical Psychology (3)
An advanced course with emphasis in developmental theories in relation to childhood psychopathology, therapeutic procedures with children, and specialized assessment techniques. Prerequisites: PSY 664, 676 and consent of instructor.
 
PSY 683  
Tests and Measurements (3)
The selection, administration and uses of psychological tests are discussed, with emphasis on application in educational settings. (Same GUI 683.)
 
PSY 684  
Directed Individual Study (1-3)
Individual programs involving readings or conducting a research project in psychology. Note: Arrangements for faculty supervision are required prior to enrolling. Prerequisites: approval by a faculty sponsor and the departmental chair.
 
PSY 686  
Group Psychotherapy Techniques (3)
Emphasis on theory and application of the therapeutic techniques with groups. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
 
PSY 688  
Multivariate Statistics (3)
A survey of multivariate statistical techniques including multiple correlation and regression, canonical correlation, multivariate analysis of variance, discriminant function analysis, and factor analysis. Computer-based techniques of statistical analysis are emphasized. Prerequisite: PSY 652 or consent of instructor.
 
PSY 691  
Principles of Learning (3)
Techniques and principles of human and animal learning behavior, and an introduction to theories. Experimental evidence will be stressed.
 
PSY 698  
Thesis (3)
 
PSY 699  
Thesis (3)
 
  Department of Psychology
212 Wells Hall
Murray State University
Murray, Kentucky 42071

Phone: 270.809.2851
Fax: 270.809.2991
         
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