Psychology
Dr. Joanne Storm Gallagher, chair
Dr. Sabrina Bierstetel
Dr. Regina Boerio
Dr. Matthew Breuninger
Dr. Marita O’Brien
Dr. Stephen Sammut
Aims
The study of psychology is always a source of fascination to students. It is one area of knowledge in which they are, at the same time, the subject and object under investigation. It affords them the opportunity to delve into the “how” and “why” of human behavior and the integration of mind, body and spirit.
By studying the complex behavior patterns as presented in the specialized courses listed in the Psychology Program of Study, students can intensively analyze each aspect of human behavior. Later, they synthesize these individualized areas of knowledge to form once again a comprehensive, organismic whole.
Courses in the Department of Psychology are designed to acquaint the student thoroughly with the content and methods of scientific psychology while validating the God-given dignity and worth of the human person. In addition to the insights that psychology gives to the individual student in understanding a person’s behavior, this program provides a background for advanced studies in such fields as clinical and counseling psychology, university research, teaching, vocational and educational guidance, medicine, law, and personnel work in business and industry. It is assumed that psychology majors will pursue graduate studies to acquire positions in these professional fields and licensures as psychologists.
Assessment Learning Goals
- Theory and Content of Psychology: Students should demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology.
- Research Methods in Psychology: Students should understand and apply basic research methods in psychology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Critical Thinking Skills in Psychology: Students should respect and use critical thinking, skeptical inquiry, and when possible, the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes.
- Application of Psychology: Students should understand and have the opportunity to apply psychological principles and values to personal, social, and organizational issues, as demonstrated by their ability to weight evidence, tolerate ambiguity, and act ethically.
- Application of Theory and Values in Psychology: Students should demonstrate these values through the weighing of evidence, acting ethically, and tolerating ambiguity.
- Communication Skills: Students should acquire both oral and written skills in service of communicating psychological knowledge.
- Sociocultural Awareness: Students should understand and respect the complexity of sociocultural diversity.
- Personal Development: Students should have the opportunity to develop awareness and insight into how their own attitudes and behavior affect their interactions with others and be exposed to effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement.
Psychology Course Descriptions
Bridge Track to MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling