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Requirements for the Minor (15 credits)

A. required course (3 credits).

• PSY 12000 - Elementary Psychology

B. Selective - Choose One (3 credits)

• PSY 20000 - Introduction To Cognitive Psychology
• PSY 22200 - Introduction To Behavioral Neuroscience

C. Selective - Choose One (3 credits)

• PSY 23500 - Child Psychology
• PSY 24000 - Introduction To Social Psychology
• PSY 27200 - Introduction To Industrial-Organizational Psychology
• PSY 35000 - Abnormal Psychology

D. Additional Psychology course - Choose Two (6 credits)

• PSY courses (Only one of the following courses may be used: PSY 39000 or PSY 39100)
• A grade of “C-” or better must be earned in any course used to fulfill a minor requirement.*
• All courses in Sections B and C require PSY 12000    as a prerequisite.
• *PSY 22000 cannot be used toward fulfillment of the minor requirements.
• The Pass / Not-Pass grading option may not be adopted for any courses used to fulfill any College of Health and Human Sciences (HHS) minor requirements. For further information, students should refer to the HHS Pass / Not-Pass Policy.

The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. The myPurduePlan powered by DegreeWorks is the knowledge source for specific requirements and completion.

Undergraduate Admissions

• Psychological Sciences

Purdue University in West Lafayette

Psychological Sciences provides a broad overview of many of the sub-fields of psychology. Courses focus on: clinical psychology (mental illness and behavioral problems), cognitive psychology (memory, thinking, and reasoning), developmental psychology (human growth and aging), industrial/organizational psychology (how people work together), behavioral neuroscience (biological bases of behavior), social psychology (thoughts and behavior in social situations), learning and motivation, statistics and mathematical models of behavior.

Psychological Sciences is developing co-op opportunities for undergraduate students. Students participating in co-ops will spend two semesters working within their field of interest throughout the undergraduate program.

Psychological Sciences  students have the option to also earn a Master’s degree in either  Public Health  or  Applied Behavior Analysis  through an accelerated 4+1 agreement.

Psychological Sciences offers excellent preparation for students interested in pursuing graduate and professional school, especially law school and occupational therapy.

HHS Life 360: David Rollock

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York,  David Rollock  says he was always the kid that other kids told their problems. That sympathetic ear, academic curiosity, and infectious personality served him well through high school and Ivy League educations at Princeton and Yale, where he earned his undergraduate degree and Ph.D., respectively.

Rollock, former department head and professor of psychological sciences, recalls reading a high school textbook that suggested the IQ performance of African-Americans and other underrepresented minorities was lower than the average American score. ...

“That did not square at all with my personal experience, so I figured there was something not quite right about how they were collecting or sharing their data,” he says. “I decided I wanted to be part of the enterprise that dealt with generating new information and framing it in ways to both inform the profession and help make lives better.”

As part of that research and teaching enterprise at Purdue since 1988, Rollock has earned numerous teaching awards. He was among 10 faculty members across campus awarded 150th Anniversary Professorships. The named professorship recognizes teaching excellence, as well as a history of outstanding mentoring.

In characterizing his own teaching philosophy, Rollock believes it’s his job to help people connect with the material. “That means deploying multiple techniques to meet multiple learners where their preferred styles of learning might be,” he says. “Sometimes I lecture because, similar to many faculty colleagues, I like to be a ‘sage on a stage.’ But we also need interactive demonstrations, places where students actively see the processes they’re learning about.”

Rollock also has transitioned happily into a mentorship role, having served as chair of the University’s Teaching Academy and becoming a tireless advocate of instructional excellence. Still, it’s hard to beat that exchange with students. “Teaching keeps one on one’s toes,” he says. “It forces us to be clear, as well as thoughtful.

Excerpt from Our Teaching Best, Honoring the teaching award winners from HHS by William Meiner

Plan of Study

• Psychological Sciences, BS

Transfer to Psychological Sciences

Purdue admits to individual majors. Transfer students must meet Purdue's overall transfer criteria , as well as any major-specific requirements. Before you apply, check the closed programs page to confirm this major is open to transfer students. If it is, refer to the information below for major-specific transfer criteria.

Minimum GPA: 2.5

Contact Information

HHS Undergraduate Student Services (765) 494-8533 [email protected]

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Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Department of Psychological Sciences

PSY 39000 (Research Experience in Psychology)

PSY 39000 is a course that allows you to work as a research assistant on projects managed by a faculty member or graduate student in the Department of Psychological Sciences. Through this course, you’ll gain hands-on experience in data collection and learn skills such as data analysis, data interpretation and writing. The course will also allow you to develop contacts for job references and letters of recommendation as well as enhance the competitiveness of your application for graduate school, professional school or a variety of careers.

Faculty Accepting Undergraduate Students — Summer 2024

Teri Kirby – Social

Faculty member and other supervisors

Teri Kirby, PhD, Assistant Professor – Social Psychology Austin Zeng, Lab Coordinator Junming Zhang, Graduate Researcher

Description of research area

Research in Dr. Kirby’s lab explores a range of topics related to diversity, inclusion, identity, prejudice, and discrimination. We most often focus on racial/ethnic, gender/sex, and LGBTQ+ diversity. Recent topics of investigation include:

• Diversity ideologies: ideas about how to accommodate differences across ethnic, gender, and sexual orientation categories (e.g., multicultural and colorblind approaches to diversity)
• Diversity initiatives: intersectional approaches to diversity initiatives, how diversity initiatives shape sensitivity to discrimination, self-concept, stereotyping, and academic/workplace outcomes
• The co-opting of diversity by majority/privileged groups
• Cultural appropriation
• Intersectionality and feminism

Description of undergraduate participation

Research assistants typically gain experience running participants in experimental lab studies, recruiting research participants, programming surveys, collecting survey data, entering or analyzing data, reviewing relevant psychological literature, and helping to design studies. They also gain experience with software that can be useful for graduate school (e.g., Qualtrics, Zotero, SPSS, R and RStudio).

Research assistants attend research group meetings to discuss projects in the lab and learn more about the research process. Finally, more senior research assistants may have the opportunity to conduct independent research projects and mentor/train more junior assistants.

Research setting

Labs in Psychology Building

Number of assistants needed

Contact information.

Please submit your application at: https://purdue.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9tzVkWICaZbikMC

For questions, please contact Austin Zeng: [email protected]

Hongmi Lee – Cognitive

Faculty member

Hongmi Lee (she/her), Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology

Description of Research Area 

In the Lee Memory and Cognition Lab , we investigate how the human brain remembers complex real-world events. Our research is focused on understanding the characteristics of narrated memory recall for experiences resembling real-life situations (e.g., free web browsing) and the brain mechanisms that support the storage and recall of those experiences. We utilize a combination of behavioral experiments and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Description of Undergraduate Participation

As undergraduate research assistants, you will work closely with other lab members, contributing to a range of tasks essential for our fMRI and behavioral experiments. These tasks primarily include participant recruitment, preparation, and testing, as well as data coding, organization, and basic analysis. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to attend lab meetings and other lab-related events. If you express interest and demonstrate the required skills, you may also have the chance to develop your independent research project.

Research Setting

Most of the research activity will take place in our lab space and testing rooms on the 2nd floor of Peirce Hall. fMRI experiments will be conducted at the Purdue Life Science MRI Facility on campus.

Number of Assistants Needed:

1 – 3 students

Contact Information

Hongmi Lee / Lee Memory and Cognition Lab

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: N/A Office: 3160 PSYC

Additional Comments

To apply, please send an email to [email protected] with the following materials:

• A very brief statement (no longer than one page) describing 1) who you are, 2) why you are interested in joining our lab, 3) your prior research experience and technical skills (e.g., computer programming), and 4) your weekly availability
• A CV or resume, if available
• An unofficial transcript

Although we prefer students with relevant skills and/or who intend to be involved over a longer period, all interested students are encouraged to apply. Students from underrepresented or marginalized groups are particularly encouraged to apply.

Thekla Morgenroth – Social

Faculty member or graduate student

Dr. Thekla Morgenroth (they/them/their), Assistant Professor—Social Psychology

Kira Means (she/her), graduate student – Social Psychology

Heejoo Chung (she/her), graduate student – Social Psychology

Yanzhe (Austin) Zeng (he/him), lab manager – Social Psychology

Description of research area 

Research in the UNICORN ( UN derstanding I dentity and the CO ntinuance of R oles and N orms) lab examines how and why people defend and maintain social categories and hierarchies.

Topics of investigation include:

• LGBTQ+ issues
• Gender and the gender binary
• The psychology of different feminist ideologies
• Opposition to trans-inclusive policies
• Stereotypes and prejudice

The lab experience is designed to provide students with hands-on experience with the research process.

Research assistants have the opportunity to:

• Conduct research using a variety of research designs and methods
• Gain experience in software used for research (e.g., Qualtrics, SPSS)
• Engage with and code open-response data
• Read and analyze published academic articles
• Be active participants in weekly lab meetings and discussions about research

More experienced research assistants also have opportunities to:

• Engage in independent research projects, mentored by Dr. Morgenroth
• Present their results to the lab
• Train and mentor incoming undergraduate research assistants

Work will be carried out in a joint lab space in person at specific times (depending on your schedule).

Please fill out the following survey by March 22nd. You will hear back within 1-2 weeks of this deadline.

https://purdue.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a8CUIaw5Qvcm7lQ

Additional comments

Members of underrepresented or marginalized groups are particularly encouraged to apply. In addition, individuals interested in pursuing careers in academic research and/or who may be interested in working in the lab for more than one semester are particularly encouraged to apply. Students should be able to commit at least 6 hours/week (2 credits).

Faculty Accepting Undergraduate Students — Fall 2024

Chris Agnew – Social

Chris Agnew, PhD, Professor, Social Psychology, RSVP Lab Director

Description of Research 

We conduct research on interpersonal relationships and are particularly focusing on relationship processes that take place in virtual reality (VR).

Research assistants perform a variety of tasks, including collecting data in our VR lab. You will be trained on how to conduct research involving participants who interact within VR. We also often design new VR studies together as a lab team. Lab team meetings take place weekly, either in person or via Horizon Workrooms in VR, with lab team members using lab-supplied Meta Quest headsets to attend. Team members also assist with relationship experiments and surveys not focused on VR.

All work is completed in the Psychological Sciences building or in virtual space. Research assistants spend most of their hours working in the lab.

We are recruiting up to 4 new undergraduate students to join the RSVP Lab in Fall 2025 to work alongside returning undergraduate research assistants. Research assistants are expected to work an average of 9 hours per week during the semester and receive 3 credits for PSY 39000.

How to Apply

Send (1) your CV, (2) unofficial Purdue transcript, (3) statement of research interests, and (4) reasons for applying, as one PDF file via email attachment to Dr. Agnew at [email protected] . Minimum 3.3 overall GPA required. Interviews for the most promising applicants will take place via Zoom in April and May 2024 until positions are filled. Thx for your interest!

Stephen Broomell – Cognitive

Dr. Stephen B. Broomell Global Risk and Individual Decisions (GRID) Lab

Our lab is focused on understanding how individuals form judgments and make decisions in the face of risk and uncertainty. We leverage real world risks such as climate change, weather hazards, medical, or cyber risks and design experiments to investigate what features of the problem domain facilitate or hinder accurate judgment and effective decision-making regarding the risk.

Below are a few current research topics:

• Communication of uncertain climate projections.
• Developing and testing theories for how the form and presentation of information affects judgment.

More information can be found at: https://hhs.purdue.edu/grid-lab/

Students can be involved in all phases of research, including designing experiments, testing participants, analyzing data, and presentations of study results. Students will also participate in regularly scheduled lab meetings and discussions of readings on relevant topics.

The lab is located on the third floor in the Psychology Building.

2-4 students. If you are interested in joining our laboratory, please fill out this survey .

If you have further questions, please contact Dr. Broomell using the email below.

Email: [email protected]

Jeffrey D. Karpicke – Cognitive

Dr. Jeffrey D. Karpicke Cognition and Learning Lab

The Cognition and Learning Lab conducts basic and applied research on how people learn. Specific areas of interest are as follows:

• Identifying effective learning strategies
• Metacognition and self-regulated learning
• Developing computer-based learning tools
• Memory retrieval processes and retrieval-based learning

Students in the Cognition and Learning Lab have the opportunity to get involved in all phases of the research process. Most frequently this consists of running experimental sessions, helping to score and analyze data, and attending bi-weekly lab meetings. Additionally, students have the opportunity (although this is not required) to conduct independent research and learn more about experimental design/computer programming.

The Cognition and Learning Lab is located on the 1 st floor of Peirce Hall.

2-4 research assistants are needed.

Students interested in doing PSY 390/391/498 in the Cognition and Learning Lab should complete an application by April 12th. We will follow up with you within two weeks of that deadline. If you have any questions, please direct them to Michelle Coverdale: [email protected]

For more information see our lab website . Students with GPAs of 3.4 and higher are particularly encouraged to apply.

Franki Kung – Industrial-Organizational

Research Team

Principal Investigator: Franki Kung , Assistant Professor, I-O Psychology Graduate Investigators: Rick Yang, and Dante Bruno

At the Conflict and Mindset Collaboratory , we conduct research to help people and organizations effectively manage:

• Culture and Diversity (e.g., diversity policies, cultural mindset, immigrants)
• Conflict Resolution (e.g., negotiation, feedback effectiveness)
• Multiple Goals (e.g., self-regulation, goal conflicts)

We design the lab experience to prepare our undergraduate research assistants for graduate school and jobs in the fields of I-O and social psychology, management, human resource, and organizational behavior. Students will join a community of peers, researchers, and mentors passionate about the studies of diversity, conflict, and goals. Besides individual project team meetings and tasks, students attend lab meeting weekly to learn and discuss related issues and enjoy other social events throughout the semester (e.g., lunch, escape room, mini golf).

Junior research assistants will have the opportunities to

• learn how to conduct online surveys, literature reviews, behavioral experiments, and qualitative analysis (e.g., picture coding, focus group analysis)
• develop scientific thinking and presentation skills in weekly lab meetings
• attend research and professional development workshops (e.g., literature review, survey design, data analysis)
• honors contract or scholarly project

Senior research assistants (typically 1+ year experience) will have the opportunities to

• manage participant recruitment and lab schedule
• conduct training sessions
• develop their own research ideas and design studies
• present findings in academic conferences

We support and encourage student involvement in our lab through scholarship programs such as Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation , OUR Scholars , and Summer Stay Scholars .

Our research takes part mostly in our lab space (in the Psychological Sciences building) and some part of the work can be carried out remotely (e.g., from home).

To Apply, please fill out this form and supply related documents.

Contact Dr. Kung at [email protected] if you have questions. Twitter: @ConflictMindset

Preference is given to students who major or are interested in Psychology, Business, or related fields. Application is reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the semester – if you are interested, apply now!

Dan Foti – Clinical

Dan Foti, PhD – Professor of Clinical Psychology Roslyn Harold, MS – Graduate Researcher

Research in the PACER lab seeks to refine the phenotypic definitions of psychopathology by applying findings from basic neuroscience, with a particular emphasis on mood disorders and psychotic disorders. In our basic research, we examine the psychological and behavioral processes reflected by patterns of brain activity that can be measured in the laboratory using neuroimaging techniques (event-related potentials, or ERPs; functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI). Much of this research focuses on how motivationally salient stimuli, such as monetary rewards and emotional images, are processed in the brain in healthy populations, as well as examining the relevant environmental contexts which shape this processing.

Currently, the lab is funded for a project examining why women who carry the Fragile X premutation are at drastically increased risk for developing depression as adults. This study is recruiting women from across the midwest to come to our lab and complete an EEG, MRI, blood draw, cognitive and neuropsychological tests, and a clinical interview. We hope this this study will help us understand what physiological processes are impacted by having this genetic premutation and how those processes might especially increase risk for depression in this group.

Research assistants will help facilitate data collection by assisting with recruitment and screening efforts; accompanying participants between different research-related activities; preparing participants for and collecting EEG data; storage, preprocessing, and shipping of biological samples (blood); and entering or analyzing data. Research assistants are also welcome to attend lab meetings and will have opportunities to conduct their own independent research project.

Most of our research will take place in our lab space in the Psychological Sciences building and at the Life Science MRI facility. Some (but not all) work may be completed remotely.

For questions, please contact Roslyn Harold at  [email protected]

To apply, please fill out this form .

Students who are successful in this application will have strong organizational skills and be able to interact with participants in a professional, easy manner. Those who are able to commit to working 6-9 hours per week (i.e. register for 2-3 PSY390 credits) and who have somewhat flexible weekday (Mon-Thurs) schedules during the morning and afternoon are strongly preferred.

Margo Monteith – Social

Dr. Margo Monteith, Distinguished Professor—Social Psychology

Anna Li, graduate student, —Social Psychology

Liz Noland, graduate student, —Social Psychology

Research in Dr. Monteith’s Intergroup Relations and Inclusion lab explores issues related to stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination.

• Implicit or unconscious biases and their effect on people’s perceptions, evaluations, and behaviors in relation to outgroups (e.g., White people in relation to Black people)
• The self-regulation of biased behavior
• Confrontations of bias (e.g., how people react when they are confronted; how to make confrontations more effective)

Research assistants engage in weekly one-hour research group meetings will be held to discuss various projects in the lab and to help undergraduate assistants to learn what our research is all about. Additional time will be spent on planning and execution (e.g., data collection) of the research projects. Scheduling is flexible.

Please reach out to Anna Li (a graduate student in the Monteith lab), [email protected]   for an application

• Must have completed PSY 120
• Completion of or enrollment in PSY 240 and PSY 203 preferred
• GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred
• Minimum commitment of 3 credits per term (9 hours per week) required, as well as two terms overall

However, all interested candidates are encouraged to apply. We especially encourage people from underrepresented or marginalized groups to apply.

Please fill out the following survey by April 5th . You will hear back within 1-2 weeks of this deadline.

Thomas S. Redick – Cognitive

Dr. Thomas S. Redick Purdue Applied Cognition Laboratory (PacLab) PacLab website

Our lab is involved in several research projects focused on understanding the role of working memory and cognitive control as predictors of behavior. Almost all of our studies are conducted with young adults as the sample. Our work is very applied in nature. Below are a few current research topics:

• Individual differences in learning, memory, and attention
• Different ways that people create spatial representations as they navigate a new place
• Ways to modify memory and attention

Students will be involved in all phases of research, including designing experiments, testing participants, analyzing data, and presentations and publications of study results. Students will also participate in regularly scheduled lab meetings and discussions of readings on relevant cognitive psychology topics.

The PacLab is located on the third floor in the Psychology Building.

If you are interested in joining our laboratory, please fill out the following survey: PacLab Undergraduate Research Assistant Interest Form

Anne Sereno – Cognitive

Dr. Anne B. Sereno, Professor –Mathematical and Computational Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience & Behavior, and Biomedical Engineering

Daniel Larranaga McGough, graduate student – Neuroscience & Behavior

Research in Dr. Sereno’s research spans a wide array of topics in computational modeling, cognitive neuroscience, , and biomedical engineering.

• The factors that impact the time course of spatial attention
• The cortical representations of lexical semantics, attention, and memory
• Investigations of the effects of age on spatial processing
• Computational modeling, population decoding methods, and instrumentation
• Classification of motor movements for disease (e.g., bradykinesia, tremor, cognitive deficits)
• The effects of traumatic brain injury

Research assistants engage in weekly one-hour lab meetings where we will discuss various projects in the lab. Additional time will be spent on planning and execution (e.g., data collection) of the research projects. Scheduling is flexible. If student’s perform exceptionally well, there may be opportunities for the research honors program.

Labs in Psychology Building and Pierce Hall

Please reach out to Daniel Larranaga McGough (a graduate student in the Sereno lab) at  [email protected] for an application.

• Completion of PSY 200, 201, and 203 preferred

Susan South – Clinical

Faculty Member and Graduate Students

Susan South, PhD Professor – Clinical Psychology

Jessica Dupree, Graduate Researcher

Magaret Lupo, Graduate Researcher

Description of Research

Research in the Relationships and Mental Health Lab seeks to investigate the role psychopathology plays within intimate romantic relationship experiences. Past research in the RMH Lab has focused on links between trait personality and dysfunction within marital relationships, as well as the interplay between personality and psychopathology and their influence on one another.

Currently, the lab is funded for a project examining the effects of adverse interpersonal experiences on mild cognitive impairment in older adult twins. Additionally, the lab is in collaboration with Dr. Chris Eckhardt’s team to investigate the impact of stress, mood, and alcohol use on relationship experiences, and Dr. David Rollock’s lab to investigate discrimination, relationship functioning, and mental health.

Research assistants will help facilitate data collection by assisting with participant concerns, programming surveys, as well as entering or analyzing data.

Research assistants will also attend biweekly lab meetings to read and discuss relevant journal articles, watch presentations from Dr. South and graduate students regarding research processes to gain additional experience useful for graduate school. Research assistants that have been with the lab for more than one semester may also have an opportunity to conduct their own independent research project.

Most of our research will take place in our lab space in the Psychological Sciences building. Some work may be completed remotely.

Number of Research Assistants Needed

For questions, please contact Dr. South: [email protected]

To apply, please contact [email protected] for an application

Students taking the course for credit should commit to working 3 hours in the lab for each credit (e.g. 9 hours/week for 3 credits).

Louis Tay – Industrial-Organizational

Faculty Member

Louis Tay, PhD, Professor, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, WAM Lab Director

The Well-Being and Measurement (WAM) Lab pursues cross-disciplinary research on human well-being and methodology.

Research assistants perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Learning and practicing literature review techniques
• Collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data
• Assessing traits and characteristics of people from videos or their writing
• Developing research study materials

Topic areas for fall 2024:

• Authenticity and Personality
• Work-Life Balance and Well-being
• Work Relationships
• Trait Assessment
• Big Data/AI/ML

You can find a draft of the syllabus here .

Number of Assistants Needed

We are recruiting up to 4 new undergraduate students to join the WAM Lab in Fall 2024 to work alongside graduate students and senior researchers. Research assistants are expected to work an average of 9 hours per week during the semester and receive 3 credits for PSY 39000.

To apply, please send an email to [email protected] and [email protected] (include both email addresses as recipients) with the following materials:

Although we prefer students with relevant skills and GPAs over 3.3, all interested students are encouraged to apply. Applications will be processed in the order they are received. Please reach out if you have any questions!

Registering and Earning Credit for PSY 39000

Registration for PSY 39000 is done during open registration using Scheduling Assistant — not during pre-registration using the course request form. Although PSY 39000 may be taken more than once, no more than six credits may be taken for a standard grade. All additional PSY 39000 credits must be taken as pass/no pass credit. Only three credits of standard-grade PSY 39000 can be used in the psychological sciences major, the brain and behavior science major, or the psychological sciences minor.

During the 16-week fall or spring semester, you are expected to work three hours in the lab for every credit earned (e.g., three credits would require nine lab hours per week). After the fourth week of the fall or spring semester, you may not register for three credit hours of PSY 39000 without special permission from the Department of Psychological Sciences. Late enrollment in PSY 390 during any semester reduces the number of possible credit hours you can earn.

During the eight-week summer session, you are expected to work in the lab six hours per week for every credit earned (e.g., three credits would require 18 lab hours per week).

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• Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Online Addictions Programs

Many people suffer from addiction, yet only a small percentage of them seek treatment, which means there is a need for highly qualified professionals who are driven to help others overcome their debilitating afflictions. Those working in this field are trained to walk addicts through their road to recovery using specialized methods and techniques. It's an exciting time to build a rewarding career in this rapidly growing and essential field.

Develop foundational knowledge of addiction, pharmacology, recovery, prevention, and case management. You'll also learn to use the scientific approach to solve problems, evaluate behavior and mental processes, and more.

In this graduate program, you'll learn how to analyze and apply theoretical and conceptual foundations of psychology as they pertain to addiction, as well as how to apply contemporary theories and information technologies to real-world situations.

Online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Programs

Those working in applied behavior analysis are agents of change who strive to make a difference in the lives of others. By studying this field, students will learn the principles required to understand what motivates human behavior, as well as the actions needed to alter that behavior for the benefit of the individual and society as a whole.

Focus on improving skills of children in school settings and the development, abilities, and choices of children and adults with various disabilities. You'll also prepare to sit for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® exam.

Study the analysis, design, and application of various behavior principles and theories to gain an understanding of what motivates human behavior as you prepare to sit for the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination.

Expand your expertise in behavioral disabilities and gain the knowledge needed to advance your career in applied behavior analysis. You'll also prepare to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam.

Expand your knowledge of behavioral disabilities. Complete a practicum experience to gain valuable real-world experience.

Online Educational Psychology Programs

Those pursuing a degree in educational psychology have a desire to help others, and they have a genuine curiosity about how developmental, cognitive emotional, and social factors can affect a student's ability to learn. They also have a desire to improve existing educational methodologies for adults, children, and people with special needs. It's an exciting time to build a rewarding career in this challenging field.

In this program, you'll study current instructional techniques, technologies, educational trends, and learning behaviors as you develop the competencies to guide the improvement of educational programs and practices in a variety of settings.

Online Industrial/Organizational Psychology (I/O) Programs

Those working in this field will apply a variety of psychological principles and research methods to improve work performance, communication, job satisfaction, safety, and more. Start building your career in this exciting and challenging field.

Develop a foundational knowledge of the principles of psychology as it relates to business and organizational settings. You'll learn about managing and motivating talent, how to assess an organization to improve its effectiveness, and more.

Gain the skills needed to create positive change in organizations by improving employee performance, attitudes, and behaviors. You'll also focus on the principles related to workplace productivity, morale, management, and more.

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Admissions Requirements and Resources

To get started as a Purdue Global student, you must meet certain academic requirements and complete an enrollment application. Here’s what you'll need to begin:

For Undergraduate Programs and Certificates:

• You must be a high school graduate and possess a General Education Development (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. If you are a high school senior eligible to apply, you must submit proof of high school graduation.

For Graduate Programs and Certificates:

• A bachelor's degree is required to enroll in a master’s degree or graduate certificate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of the required degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process.

Want to know if online learning is right for you before you enroll? Watch a virtual campus tour to learn more about the online experience.

Understanding Your Investment

How long? How much? These are important questions! Try our online Calculator to estimate when you'll finish and see how your prior credits and experience can save you time and money.

Ready to Enroll?

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Teresa Heier

MS in Psychology—Applied Behavior Analysis Graduate

Catie Behling

Resources Related to Studying Psychology

To help you in your psychology career goals and options, we have the news and resources you need.

There is an often-discussed myth that applied behavior analysis (ABA) is only used to increase the quality of life and success of those diagnosed with autism. While ABA has decades of research supporting the efficacy of our work with this population, behavior is not limited to those with autism—behavior itself is the purview of behavior analysts.

If you've ever watched "CSI" or have a fondness for Agent Starling, you have a general idea about the role of forensic psychology. In reality, there's more to the practice than profiling serial killers and sizing up crime scenes. A forensic psychology professional's job may not be quite as glamorous as portrayed on screen, but practitioners can have exciting and challenging careers.

Industrial/organizational psychology (I/O) is the professional field that applies evidence-based practices to help employees and organizations thrive. I/O professionals act as consultants within companies and organizations, work as researchers, and hold positions in various industries, including higher education. As a specialized field, I/O professionals possess unique expertise derived from postgraduate education.

Psychology Programs

Explore the benefits of earning a bachelor's or master's degree or certificate at Purdue Global.

Psychology Certificates

Why choose Purdue Global for your certificate in psychology?

Dedicated Faculty Offer Rich Experience

Purdue Global faculty members share knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and real-world industry experience.

Psychology Program FAQs

Yes, there are a variety of online psychology degrees you can earn online; however, if you are interested in optional certification examinations, there may be practicum, fieldwork, or in-person components that you may be required to complete. Therefore, it is important that you understand those requirements. Additionally, such requirements may change during the course of your program. Our online psychology degree programs include:

Applied Behavioral Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate

• Autism Spectrum Disorders Postbaccalaureate Certificate

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavioral Analysis

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Graduate Certificate in Addictions

Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

• Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis

Master of Science in Educational Psychology

Master of Science in Psychology

• Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis

There are several organizations that accredit online psychology degrees. At Purdue Global, the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the course sequence of the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis and the Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® examination given by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board ® , Inc. (BACB ® ).

The ABAI has also verified the course sequence of the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the BACB's Board Certified Behavior Analyst ® examination. Applicants will have to meet additional requirements to qualify. Please refer to the BACB's website for full eligibility requirements ( www.BACB.com ).

The National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC) accredits programs related to addictions. At Purdue Global, the NASAC has accredited the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions, the Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in addictions, and the Graduate Certificate in Addictions.

There are several different types of psychology, including, but not limited to:

• Clinical psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Evolutionary psychology
• Forensic psychology
• Health psychology
• Neuropsychology
• Occupational psychology
• Social psychology

There are many psychology careers available, and your career options depend on the degree or certificate that you earn. For example, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can prepare you to work in community and social services or in the education field. Some psychology degrees focus on specific areas or skills.

At Purdue Global, several psychology degrees focus on addictions, and these programs can prepare you to pursue a career helping those with substance use disorders, as a substance abuse counselor, or in the health education field.

In an online psychology degree program, you’ll learn important research and critical thinking skills. These are skills that are useful in a wide variety of jobs and industries, even if your future career isn't focused on psychology.

Check out our degree programs below for examples of potential career opportunities.

• Social and community service managers
• Social and human service assistants
• Residential advisors
• Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors
• Health education specialists
• Community health workers

Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

• Education administrators, kindergarten through secondary
• Adult basic education, adult secondary education, and English as a Second Language (ESL) instructors
• Instructional coordinators
• Training and development managers
• Human resource specialists
• Training and development specialists

The time it takes to earn a psychology degree may vary depending on several factors, such as whether you're taking classes on a full-time or part-time schedule. For an estimated average completion time, check out our degree program offerings below:

Master of Science in Psychology Average Completion: 2 years of full-time study

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

Graduate Certificate in Addictions Average Completion: 1 year of full-time study

Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis Average Completion: 2 years of full-time study

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavioral Analysis Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

Applied Behavioral Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate Average Completion: 8 months of full-time study

Master of Science in Educational Psychology Average Completion: 2 years of full-time study

Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Average Completion: 4 years of full-time study

Graduate Certificate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Average Completion: 1 year of full-time study

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

Applied Behavior Analysis Programs: The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) has verified the course sequence of the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis and the Applied Behavior Analysis Postbaccalaureate Certificate toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst ® examination. The ABAI has also verified the course sequence of the Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis as meeting the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst ® examination. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information. Visit the BACB website ( www.BACB.com ) for additional state-specific requirements.

Certification Exams: Students are responsible for understanding the requirements of optional certification exams. The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. In some cases, work experience, additional coursework beyond the Purdue Global program, fieldwork, and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or to successfully pass the exams.

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment. Additional certification or licensing may be required to work in certain fields.

Psychology Programs: The professional practice of psychology is regulated by each state, and the degree requirements of this program do not guarantee or prepare students for licensure in any state upon graduation. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information. Visit www.NAADAC.org and/or www.BACB.com for additional state-specific licensure requirements.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Psychology

Graduate Programs

The Counseling Psychology program is committed to the scientist-practitioner model of training wherein professional psychologists are prepared to integrate theory, research, and practice in their practice as agents of knowledge development and change in a diverse society. The program prioritizes research, with students obtaining research, presentation, and publication experiences. The program incorporates diversity, focusing on contextually relevant skills in assessment and intervention with multicultural populations. The program also emphasizes an energetic and collaborative learning atmosphere.

December 1st is the deadline for admission consideration. We are hosting a virtual open house from for interested applicants to know more about the program before the application deadline. RSVP here.

The Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology at Purdue prepares students for professional licensure as a psychologist in the state of Indiana. Contact Eric Deemer at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state psychology licensure board about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

This program does not lead to teacher licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Program requirements.

The counseling psychology program offers ONLY the Ph.D. as a terminal degree. A master’s degree is awarded en route to the Ph.D. for students entering the program with a bachelor’s degree, but this degree does not prepare graduates for licensure as a practicing counselor. Students who are unsure that they can or will complete a doctoral program should apply to a master’s program or to a doctoral program that awards a master’s degree as a part of the doctoral requirements.

All program information is available online. The faculty encourage students to inform themselves about the program. At a minimum, please check the Student Handbook.

When applying, please choose “Educational Studies” (for which counseling psychology is under) as a graduate major in the application portal.

Requirements

• Academic Statement of Purpose The academic statement of purpose should be 300-500 words concerning your purpose for undertaking or continuing graduate study at the Purdue Counseling Psychology program, your research interests, career goals, and the faculty member(s) with whom you would prefer to work and why.
• Personal History Statement The personal history statement should be 300-500 words concerning how your background and life experiences contribute to your ability to be both persistent and resourceful in graduate school. Describe how your life experiences have prepared you to contribute to an academic community where scholars with diverse research interests, abilities, backgrounds, and experiences are supported, respected, and valued.
• Submit a Curriculum Vita. Your CV should include a section listing your experience with (a) research and statistics, including courses, (b) teaching, and (c) professional related activities (e.g., organizational leadership, social advocacy, community engagement).
• Description of Previous Program. Please print and fill out the description of previous program.
• Submit three letters of reference describing research skills and potential, counseling skills and potential, and capacity for graduate study.
• Graduate School E-mail Address: [email protected]
• Graduate School Mailing Address: Graduate Studies Office, Purdue University, 100 N. University Street, Room 3229, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2098
• One academic writing sampling
• International applications may be required to submit proof of English proficiency .

Student Handbook

Application Instructions for the Counseling Psychology PhD program from the Office of Graduate Studies:

In addition to a submitted application (and any applicable application fees paid), all completed materials must be submitted by the application deadline in order for an application to be considered complete and forwarded on to faculty and the Purdue Graduate School for review.

We encourage prospective students to submit an application early, even if not all required materials are uploaded. Applications are not forwarded on for faculty review until all required materials are uploaded.

When submitting your application for this program, please select the following options:

• Select a Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
• Select your proposed graduate major: Educational Studies
• Please select an Area of Interest: Counseling Psychology
• Please select a Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Primary Course Delivery: Residential

Tentative Plan of Study

Supplemental program information, practicum placements.

Students begin the application process to off-site practicum sites following consultation with their advisor the academic year prior to starting off-site. Often this is during student’s 2nd and 3rd years. In the spring semester, the program’s Off-Site Practicum Coordinator hosts a practicum fair for students to learn more about practicum partnerships in the community. After the attending the practicum fair, students contact practicum sites they are most interested in to set up an interview. Students should not contact sites directly before the practicum fair. Below are select examples of off-site practicum locations where our students receive training.

Please note: students may need to satisfy certain eligibility requirements (e.g., background check, drug screening) for some site placements. The placements change regularly as the program adds new sites and other sites become unavailable. Some sites accept only advanced students.

University Counseling Centers

Purdue University, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) – West Lafayette, IN Indiana State University Student Counseling Services – Terre Haute, IN IUPUI Counseling & Psychological Services – Indianapolis, IN Butler University – Indianapolis, IN DePauw University – Greencastle, IN

Veteran’s Hospitals

VA Illiana Health Care System – Danville, IL Richard L Roudebush VA Medical Center – Indianapolis, IN

Community Mental Health Centers

Indiana Women’s Prison – Indianapolis, IN Willowstone Family Services, Inc – Lafayette, IN Wabash Valley Hospital, Inc., Outpatient – Lafayette, IN Four County Counseling Center – Logansport, IN

Wabash Valley / River Bend Hospital – West Lafayette, IN Logansport State Hospital – Logansport, IN

Funding Opportunities

Funding for Counseling Psychology doctoral students is complex and comes from multiple sources. First, students find assistantships in offices across campus, including the Academic Success Center, the Military Family Research Institute, and the Center for Career Opportunities. Students must apply and interview for these positions. Faculty and peers are supportive in filtering assistantship information to students, and faculty assist students in preparing their application materials. Nonetheless, the student is responsible for following up with the information and securing the assistantship. Although our students are very competitive for these positions, the process can be stressful.

Second, students may have opportunities to teach sections of undergraduate courses. These include EPDS 105: Academic and Career Planning, EPDS 315: Collaborative Leadership – Listening, EPDS 316: Collaborative Leadership – Cross-Cultural Settings, and EPDS 317: Collaborative Leadership – Mentoring. Students have also secured teaching assistantships in the Department of Psychological Sciences.

Finally, some students obtain faculty-nominated fellowships, which guarantee funding but require 20 hours per week of work for our home department, Educational Studies. Only a few fellowships are available each year, and they are competitive.

Although funding can be stressful, all current students in the program who want funding have at least a .25 FTE appointment. Regardless, some students obtain federal or private loans to supplement their income.

Tuition and Fees

* In State ** Out-State *** Additional $290 for international

Professional Licensure Disclosure Statement

The U.S. Department of Education requires institutions to publicly disclose to prospective and currently enrolled students whether certain programs meet the education requirements for licensure or certification in the state or territory in which they reside. “Programs Leading to Professional Licensure” is defined as programs represented to prepare students for an occupation for which, at completion of the program, a local, state or federal license, or nongovernmental certification is required (i) as a precondition for employment, (ii) to perform certain functions, or (iii) to meet additional conditions that are generally needed to secure employment.

The Ph.D. program in counseling psychology at Purdue prepares students for professional licensure as a psychologist in the state of Indiana. However, the program has not made a determination as to whether its training requirements meet licensure standards in the remaining 49 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and other specified territories. Current and prospective students are advised to contact the psychology licensure board in the jurisdiction in which they expect to practice to determine whether the program meets its licensure standards.

State by state psychology licensure requirements.

Faculty accepting students for 2023-24 admission: Rawan Atari-Khan, Eric Deemer, David Stanley, Xiang Zhou

Faculty accepting students for 2024 Fall admission: Amanda Case, Eric Deemer, Emily Boswell, Xiang Zhou

• Ackerman Center
• Serious Games
• CnI Online Fac
• Curriculum Studies
• Education for Work and Community
• Elementary Education
• English Education
• English Language Learning
• Learning Design and Technology
• Literacy and Language Education
• Mathematics Education
• Science Education
• Social Studies Education
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Counseling and Development
• Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
• Educational Psychology and Research Methodology
• Gifted Education
• Special Education

Emily Boswell

Amanda s. case, eric deemer, heather servaty-seib, david c. stanley , jr..

We embrace values of equity, social justice, and inclusiveness in all aspects of our training in the Counseling Psychology PhD program. These ideals are also reflected in the diverse backgrounds and cultural identities of faculty and students, which broadly reflect race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, physical ability, age, national origin, and religion. Consistent with the values of the field of counseling psychology, we strive to train students to advocate with and on behalf of people with marginalized identities to address sociocultural, political, and institutional factors that serve to perpetuate systems of oppression that undermine well-being. To this end, we believe that it is necessary for us all, faculty and students, to explore and reflect upon our own biases, privileges, and blind spots in all aspects of our roles in this program. This ongoing process of critical self-examination and self-awareness can often be an uncomfortable one, particularly as other program members may hold beliefs and values that differ from one’s own. However, we strive to navigate diverse individual and cultural perspectives together in a climate of trust, safety, and support.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the traditional homelands of the Indigenous People which Purdue University is built upon. We honor and appreciate the Bodéwadmik (Potawatomi), Lenape (Delaware), Myaamia (Miami), and Shawnee People who are the original Indigenous caretakers. See: https://www.purdue.edu/naecc/

Counseling & Psychological Services

Training & Internships

Welcome to the caps training program.

Our training program consists of both a practicum program for students in a doctoral level clinical or counseling psychology program, and an accredited internship in clinical or counseling psychology. The following pages describe the training programs in more detail. The CAPS training model is rooted in the CAPS agency mission statement, as follows:

Our mission is to help Purdue University students maximize the value of their life experiences. As we develop collaborative relationships in a safe and respectful environment, the unique value and dignity of each individual and group is held paramount. We accomplish our mission through a variety of professional services, including individual, group and couples psychotherapy; psycho-pharmacology; crisis intervention; drug and alcohol programs; outreach and consultation; and the training of helping professionals.

Thus, as a foundation for CAPS training philosophy and model, the training mission is to provide quality training that espouses values central to the overall functioning of CAPS. These values are: embracing diversity, cultural self-awareness, sensitivity to and respect for others, engaging in advocacy and social justice, engaging in life-long learning, openness to professional and personal growth and change, maintaining autonomy while working collaboratively, professionalism and ethical conduct.

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Catalog Contents

Psychology (ps).

PS115: Psychology Program and Profession

This course introduces you to the discipline of psychology and the Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree programs. The field of study, skill sets, and issues related to various psychological fields will be discussed. You will research the psychology degree and course offerings along with your professional goals in order to map out your specific degree plan and career goals.

Quarter Credit Hours: 5 | Prerequisite: None

PS124: 🌐 Introduction to Psychology

This course provides a broad introduction to the field of psychology, one of the social sciences. You will be introduced to a range of topics that offer insight into human thought and actions including what motivates us to study human behavior, ethical decisions, problem-solving, and theories on memory, learning, intelligence, and personality. This course will highlight the use of critical thinking and the application of the concepts through the use of credible research.

PS124M1: Methods and Research in Psychology

Explain basic research and scientific methods used in psychology.

Quarter Credit Hours: 1 | Prerequisite: None

PS124M2: Biology in Psychology of Daily Living

Relate the role of biology in psychology to activities of daily living.

PS124M3: Theories of Personality Development

Discuss theories of personality development.

PS124M4: Behavioral, Developmental, and Cognitive Psychology

Describe how the study of psychology is relevant to career interests.

PS124M5: Psychological Disorders

Describe signs and symptoms of psychological disorders.

PS200: Introduction to Cognitive Psychology

The purpose of this course is to introduce you to the basic principles and theories of cognition. You will explore topics such as problem-solving, decision-making, perception, attention, language, working memory, long-term memory, memory strategies, and metacognition. You will also examine the brain regions involved in specific cognitive processes. You will learn why an understanding of cognitive processes is essential for psychology professionals and will apply the principles learned to a variety of settings.

PS210: History of Psychology

This course explores the historical origins of psychological study and the influences that have shaped contemporary views of the field. You will learn about the origins of the study of the mind, the social and cultural factors that shaped the scientific approach to psychology, and how the history has impacted modern psychology. You will also be introduced to the major theories and theorists that contributed and provided the foundation for theories that continue to influence psychology in our modern times.

PS215: Neuroscience

This course will provide you with a foundational understanding of the basic concepts of neuroscience as it applies to the practice of psychology. The aim of cognitive neuroscience is to explore the biological factors that influence behavior. This course provides an introductory study of brain development, imaging, neural framework, mental processes, and more.

Quarter Credit Hours: 5 | Prerequisite: PS124

PS220: Child and Adolescent Psychology

This course will explore the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development of human beings from conception through the end of adolescence. You will develop an understanding of developmental theories and research methods used to investigate developmental change, the theoretical bases of how human beings change, and the genetic, environmental, and cultural factors that impact development.

PS225: Ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis

This course provides an in-depth study of the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts. You will use the ethical model of decision-making in a real-world scenario and explain the processes involved with reporting ethical violations to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This course focuses on the following sections of the Code: Responsibility as a Professional, Responsibility in Practice, Responsibility to Clients and Stakeholders, Responsibility to Supervisees and Trainees, Responsibility in Public Statements, and Responsibility in Research.

Quarter Credit Hours: 5 | Prerequisite: PS360 ; Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS230: Practical Applications of Ethics and Program Management

This course provides an overview of ethical considerations in the applied behavior analysis (ABA) field. You will explore the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's (BACB) code of ethics, and relate the codes to diverse scenarios. Additional topics include functional behavior assessment and goal preparation to enhance supervisee performance.

Quarter Credit Hours: 5 | Prerequisite: Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS300: Research Methods I

This course addresses the research methods used in psychology and the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. You will learn when it is appropriate to use one method over the other and how to evaluate the accuracy of the conclusions of a study. You will also gain direct experience with finding and using information in academic research articles, conducting a naturalistic observation, and administering and analyzing surveys. Finally, the course also addresses ethical considerations related to conducting research in psychology.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: None

PS311: Ethical Practice in a Diverse World

This course provides an in-depth study of the laws, ethics, confidentiality requirements, and best practices that guide clinical work in professional settings. The course provides you with a foundation in basic ethical theory as well as an understanding of diverse populations and knowledge of confidentiality laws. You will practice making ethical treatment decisions in real-world scenarios.

PS330: Personality Development

Personality is defined as a consistent pattern of thinking and behaving; it is the basis of "who we are." The theories regarding the development of personality are numerous, and each contributes to the understanding of the factors that define one's personality. This course examines the major psychological theories of personality. You will also examine abnormal personality development.

PS340: Exceptional Needs Children

This course examines the use of applied behavior analysis in the school setting. The roles of teachers, parents, and other relevant "others" will be investigated in relation to current ABA practices, which include mainstreaming, inclusion, least-restrictive environment, behavior intervention plans, functional behavior assessments, and individual education programs.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS345: Language and Speech Development and Disorders

This course examines the processes of language development in children, while integrating psychological theories and perspectives to explain this human phenomenon. You will be able to examine the progress of children with normal language development as well as those showing signs of problems. The course will provide case studies and clinical applications to prepare you for the clinical challenges you will face in your professional careers.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: PS220

PS350: Working With Children in a Diverse World

This course provides an analysis of the cultural factors that impact human development in childhood. Topics include development of cultural identity, the process of acculturation, and the impact of cultural background on social and educational experiences. Students will also explore strategies for working with diverse populations of children and techniques for creating an environment that is respectful and responsive to the needs of this population.

PS360: Applied Behavior Analysis I

This course examines the behavior theory, principles, and procedures related to modifying existing behaviors and acquiring new behaviors. You will begin to understand behavior modification techniques, such as reinforcement, punishment, extinction, discrimination training, generalization, shaping, classical conditioning, conditioned reinforcement, and schedules of reinforcement, by applying these behavior principles to real-world scenarios.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: PS340 ; Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS365: Applied Behavior Analysis II

This course builds on Applied Behavior Analysis I to further examine the dynamics of behavior principles. In this course, you will explore advanced Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) theories and apply them to case studies. You will be able to explain how behavior-environment relationships play instrumental roles in behavior deficits or excesses. This course also will provide you with information on obtaining certification and licensing in the ABA field. Although certain programs at the University are designed to prepare you to take various certification or licensing exams, the University cannot guarantee you will be eligible to sit for or pass those exams.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: PS360 ; Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS370: Health Psychology

You will explore various models and theories of health psychology, examine current research, understand the psychosocial factors involved in the onset and treatment of physical disease and illness, and study the impact of stress on mental and physical health. The interaction of mental health and physiology will be highlighted through the study of chronic problems such as heart disease, cancer, and eating disorders. You will examine the relationship between health psychology and the study of substance use disorders, including the impact of substance use on physical and psychological well-being. Special concerns of substance users will be addressed through examination of diverse topics such as tobacco use and HIV and hepatitis risk factors and treatment. You also will learn to develop and implement educational health psychology programming and to explain how health psychology principles will apply in therapy.

PS375: Psychology of Addiction

This course examines the prevention, development, diagnosis, and treatment of substance use disorders among youth and adults. Material is presented from a clinical perspective, including practical application of diagnostic techniques, especially pertinent for students intending to pursue a career in prevention or treatment of substance use disorders. Topics include the role of the brain in addiction; diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders; psychosocial factors involved in the development and maintenance of addiction; and models of education and treatment programs. You will explore substance use disorders among diverse populations.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: PS124

PS377: Models of Peer Recovery

This course will provide the standardized knowledge required to develop competency of peer support needed to serve as experiential-based professionals. The course will include Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC), crisis management, identification of indicators of substance use and/or co-occurring disorders for referral, service planning and coordination, community/family education, HIV/AIDS, ethics, and documentation including screening and intake.

PS380: Clinical Psychology

This course explores the foundations of clinical psychology, including the evolution, practice, and application of psychology in clinical settings. You will examine ethical and legal considerations in counseling, the roles and responsibilities of therapist and client, clinical skills, diversity issues, and professional development opportunities. Current topics related to clinical practice will also be covered.

PS385: Targeted Topics in Applied Behavior Analysis

This course provides an overview of the fundamental principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and the strategies derived from those principles. This course will cover diverse scenarios to apply basic concepts and theories of ABA, including ethical considerations regarding supervisees and trainees. Topics to be covered include behavior measurement considerations, experimental design, reinforcement and punishment, extinction, behavior change systems, intervention considerations, maintenance and generalization of skills, supervisee and trainee goals and performance expectations, and ethics. The course content is based on the basic behavior-analytic skills, client-centered responsibilities, and supervision areas of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Task List.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: PS365 ; Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS390: Introduction to Industrial/Organizational Psychology

You will explore industrial and organizational psychology in the workplace by examining the historical influences, theories, and current perspectives of the field. You will discuss the ethical standards for employees and research in the field as well as some practical applications for work organizations. You will acquire foundational knowledge of industrial psychology, such as personnel selection, training and development, and performance appraisal. You will also explore the theories of organizational psychology, including work motivation, job satisfaction, and stress.

PS391: Psychology of Leadership

This course provides an overview of leadership theories and approaches in traditional and virtual workplaces. You will learn how to critically think about the leadership process. You will examine effective leadership competencies related to leading self, developing and leading others, and leading performance and change including ethics in leadership. Best approaches to develop impactful leaders will be discussed.

PS392: Attitudes and Motivation in the Workplace

This course provides an overview of the major theories and findings in research on motivation and attitudes. You will explore individual differences, employee attitudes, and motivation. Additionally, you will be introduced to motivational strategies and models of performance to understand the effects on personal and professional behaviors and success in the workplace.

PS410: Screening and Assessment

This course provides an overview of the strategies and tools that are used for the screening and assessment of various age groups. Topics include the history and purpose of assessment, ethical considerations, interviewing, and an intensive overview of functional behavioral assessment. You will learn how to apply screening and assessment information to your work with children, adolescents, and adults.

PS420: Social Relationships in Childhood

Current issues in theory and research in developmental psychology will be examined specific to the importance of social relationships in childhood. Topics include emotional development and attachment, cognitive development and social understanding, the importance of peers, how the influence of the family changes as children mature, and the social landscape of adolescence.

PS430: Program Design and Evaluation

This course focuses on the process for designing programs that meet the needs of multiple populations using basic principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). It builds on fundamental concepts of designing individual behavior management programs, and research methods using concepts in organizational behavior management.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: PS410 ; Open to Applied Behavior Analysis students only

PS440: Abnormal Psychology

This course presents an integrative and multidimensional perspective to the fascinating field of abnormal psychology. You will acquire basic knowledge of various psychological disorders including depression, anxiety, and psychotic and mood disorders. You will be introduced to how abnormal behavior is defined, assessed, and diagnosed using the current classification system, as well as the limitations of assessment. The course will provide an overview of the various models used to understand psychological disorders and the therapeutic approaches used to treat them. Additionally, you will be given an overview of the legal, economic, and sociocultural influences on abnormal behavior and the mental health system to gain a greater understanding of how mental illness affects all in our society.

PS450: Case Management in Clinical Settings

This course provides an overview of case management in clinical settings, including analyzing client needs. You will be introduced to the systems theory and models of case management, which will be used as a context to discuss the evaluation and assessment of client strengths and needs, treatment planning, administration of services, working within a treatment team, and discharge planning.

PS451: Selection and Assessment in Organizations

This course will introduce you to employee selection, assessment, classification, and placement in organizations. The course explores the ethical, legal, and professional contexts of assessment and selection along with measurement of individual differences, performance appraisal and feedback, and program design and evaluation. Finally, you will cover ways psychology is applied in organizations to improve employee and team performance.

PS452: Psychopharmacology of Alcohol and Drugs

This course provides an in-depth study of the properties of alcohol and illicit drugs and their neurochemical effects on the brain. You will gain knowledge of each of the specific drug classes, basic pharmacology of psychoactive drugs, science of addiction, and the therapeutic use of medically managed prescription drugs in treatment.

PS496: Bachelor's Capstone in Industrial Organizational Psychology

The capstone course for undergraduate industrial organizational psychology provides you with the opportunity to integrate and apply learning from your industrial organizational psychology program of study in a comprehensive manner. You will assess the impact of educational experiences on personal and professional growth, ethical perspectives as well as critical thinking skills. You will reflect on and evaluate the benefits of lifelong learning and the impact of these elements on your future.

Quarter Credit Hours: 6 | Prerequisite: Last term of study or approval of the Dean

PS497: Bachelor's Capstone in Addiction

This capstone course is the culminating experience for the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions. You will apply and synthesize concepts learned in each of the major courses. The capstone course provides the opportunity to integrate and evaluate concepts/theories learned throughout coursework in several original and personalized assignments and to assess your level of mastery of the stated program.

PS498: Bachelor's Capstone in Applied Behavior Analysis

This capstone course is the culminating experience for the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis. This course serves as a final evaluation of competencies learned from coursework completed within the program. The capstone course provides you with the opportunity to integrate and synthesize the knowledge and skills acquired throughout your program and to assess your level of mastery of the stated outcomes of your degree.

PS499: Bachelor's Capstone in Psychology

This capstone course is the culminating experience for the Bachelor of Science in Psychology. This course builds on the concepts of all the courses you have taken within the program of study. The capstone course provides you with the opportunity to integrate and synthesize the knowledge and skills acquired throughout your coursework in several original and personalized assignments and to assess your level of mastery of the stated outcomes of the degree program.

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