Javascript is currently not supported, or is disabled by this browser. Please enable Javascript for full functionality.

B.S. in Actuarial Science

Otterbein University Course Catalogs

2015-2016 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    May 09, 2024  
2015-2016 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Courses


 For course prefix translations, click here .

 
  
  • PHIL 2700 - Epistemology and Philosophy of Science

    Hours: 4
    This course is centered not on particular philosophers from history, but rather on various key issues in epistemology and the philosophy of science. The basic questions in the course center on knowledge: What is knowledge? How, if at all, is knowledge possible? Can memory, testimony, and perception provide us with knowledge, or are there limitations on these familiar sources? What is the methodology of science, and can it provide us with knowledge of the world? Some other questions related to science may include: What is a scientific theory? What is the difference between a scientific explanation and other sorts of explanation? What distinguishes predictions from guesses? Can we ever prove that there are true causal relationships between events in the world? What is a scientific law? Is there one “scientific method” that is guaranteed to give correct answers no matter in what specific discipline it is employed? What distinguishes a real science like astronomy from a pseudo science like astrology? Competence and familiarity with these issues is essential for a well-rounded philosophical education.
  
  • PHIL 2800 - Social and Political Philosophy

    Hours: 4
    In this course, we will address subjects that arise in thinking about our social practices and political institutions. Some of the subjects that this course might focus on are: human rights, just-war theory, philosophy of race, distributive justice, equality, political authority, feminist philosophy, and cosmopolitanism. This class will draw from classical, modern and contemporary sources. Topic varies.
  
  • PHIL 2950 - Ethics

    Hours: 4
    This course is a general survey of the most influential works in the history of moral philosophy. Some of the works that we will consider are: Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, David Hume’s A Treatise of Human Nature, Immanuel Kant’s Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, and John Stuart Mill’s Utilitarianism.
    Notes: Except for Nursing majors, this course may be used as a substitute for the INST Reflection and Responsibility (INST 2200’s) requirement.
  
  • PHIL 3150 - Greek and Roman Philosophy

    Hours: 4
    This course will examine some of the major philosophical movements and philosophers of ancient Greece and Rome. The philosophers who flourished in the “classical age” set the agenda for all of western philosophy, and an understanding of the views of these philosophers is crucial for an understanding of all that comes afterwards. From the pre-Socratic philosophers like Thales, Heraclitus, and Parmenides, through Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and their Greek and Roman successors such as Epicurus, Epictetus, Cicero, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, this course will examine what these philosophers have to say about the good life, ideal political arrangements, the nature of reality, how to respond to human imperfection, the existence and nature of the soul, and the possibility of knowledge.
     
  
  • PHIL 3200 - Metaphysics/Philosophy of Mind

    Hours: 4
    This course is centered not on particular philosophers from history, but rather on various key issues in metaphysics and the philosophy of mind. Topics in metaphysics to be discussed may include the nature of properties, the nature of physical things, causation, the nature of time and change, identity, free will, modality, and cosmology. When it comes to the philosophy of mind, we shall think about the following questions: What is the relationship between minds and bodies? Can an adequate account of the mind be given in completely physicalist, or materialist, terms? What is the nature of the emotions? What are the distinctive features of a mind? Is artificial intelligence possible? Do other creatures besides humans have minds? What is the nature of consciousness? Competence and familiarity with these issues is essential for a well-rounded philosophical education.
    Notes: Paired with INST 4200 or PSYC 3710 to fulfill the dyad requirement.
  
  • PHIL 3300 - Modern Philosophy From Descartes to Kant

    Hours: 4
    This is a course in the history of European philosophy from the middle of the 17th Century to the end of the 18th Century, one of the most fertile and important periods of philosophic thought in the history of Western Civilization. The same era that gave rise to modern political, economic, and scientific ideals saw the most important transformation of philosophy since the time of the ancient Greeks in the 5th and 4th Centuries B.C.E. We will focus our attention on seven of the most important philosophers of the time: René Descartes, Gottfried Leibniz, Benedict Spinoza, John Locke, George Berkeley, David Hume, and Immanuel Kant. Among the topics to be discussed are the nature of the mind, the possibility of knowledge, the nature of the physical world, and the existence of God.
     
  
  • PHIL 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 1-4
    Opportunity for work in topics of special interest; by initiative of student and agreement of instructor. Intended to guide students in discussion and independent research in areas of philosophical thought.
  
  • PHIL 4000 - Seminar in Philosophy - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 4
    This course is designed to give students an opportunity to study, in a deep and sustained way, some particular philosophical topic of interest to them. As students move through the quarter, they will gain greater knowledge of that topic, greater expertise as writers and researchers, and will be provided with opportunities to present their work in a public setting. Students will leave the course with a highly polished piece of writing and a greater facility with the craft of academic work.
    Notes: This course is required for Philosophy majors though it is open to non-majors with permission of the instructor.
  
  • PHIL 4100 - Special Topics in Value Theory - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 4
    The topic of this course is subject to change, but the purpose is the same: to take on a particular topic in ethics, aesthetics, political philosophy, or related fields and examine it in a seminar format. Students will have the opportunity to pursue in greater depth a topic, issue, or philosophical thinker that was either passed over quickly in some other philosophy course, or left out altogether.
    Prerequisites: Two previous philosophy courses at the 2000 level or permission of the instructor.
    Notes: Course is repeatable for credit, so long as the specific topic is different.
  
  • PHIL 4200 - Special Topics in Metaphysics and Epistemology

    Hours: 4
    The topic of this course is subject to change, but the purpose is the same: to take on a particular topic in metaphysics, epistemology, or related areas and examine it in a seminar format. Students will have the opportunity to pursue in greater depth a topic, issue, or philosophical thinker that was either passed over quickly in some other philosophy course, or left out altogether.
    Prerequisites: Two previous philosophy courses at the 2000 level or permission of the instructor.
    Notes: Course is repeatable for credit, so long as the specific topic is different.
  
  • PHIL 4900 - Internship

    Hours: 1-16
    Internships are available to majors upon submission of documents described on the internship website of the Center for Career and Professional Development. They are arranged individually usually with local organizations, agencies or companies. Permission of instructor and department chairperson required.
  
  • PHYS 1100 - Introduction to Physics I

    Hours: 4
    Lecture and laboratory.  An introduction to mechanics as a foundation for the discipline of physics, based on a working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry.
    Prerequisites: MATH 1250.
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PHYS 1200 - Introduction to Physics II

    Hours: 4
    Lecture and laboratory.  A continuation of PHYS 1100: Wave phenomena, electricity and magnetism, optics and modern physics.
    Prerequisites: C– or better in PHYS 1100 or 1500.
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PHYS 1500 - Principles of Physics I

    Hours: 4
    Lecture and laboratory.  An introduction to mechanics as a foundation for the discipline of physics, using calculus.
    Corequisites: MATH 1700.
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PHYS 1600 - Principles of Physics II

    Hours: 4
    Lecture and laboratory.  A continuation of PHYS 1500. Electrodynamics, wave phenomena, and optics.
    Prerequisites: C– or better in PHYS 1500 or permission of instructor. Corequisites: MATH 1800.
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PHYS 2100 - Introduction to Physical Science

    Hours: 4
    A descriptive introduction to the physical sciences with emphasis on concepts and scientific thought processes developed through a combination of discussion and laboratory experiences.
    Prerequisites: Sophomore standing and a C- or better in ASC 0900 if that course is required by placement exam.
    Notes: Except for Integrated Science Education majors, this course may be used as a substitute for the INST Natural Foundations requirement.
  
  • PHYS 2700 - Principles of Modern Physics

    Hours: 4
    Lecture and laboratory.  Special relativity and quantum physics, with applications to atomic systems, nuclei, condensed matter systems, and elementary particles.

     
    Prerequisites: C– or better in PHYS 1600 or permission of instructor. Corequisites: Recommended MATH 2700.

  
  • PHYS 3000 - Classical Mechanics

    Hours: 4
    Foundation of Newtonian dynamics: motion of particles in linear and nonlinear systems; angular momentum and the central force problem; Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations.
    Prerequisites: PHYS 1600.
  
  • PHYS 3100 - Electricity and Magnetism

    Hours: 4
    An intermediate treatment of electro- and magnetostatic fields and potentials.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 1600. Corequisites: MATH 2700 recommended.

  
  • PHYS 3150 - Electrodynamics

    Hours: 4
    A continuation of PHYS 3100: Maxwell’s equations, conservation laws, electromagnetic waves, physical optics, and special relativity.
     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 3100.
  
  • PHYS 3200 - Statistical and Thermal Physics

    Hours: 4
    Thermodynamics, statistical mechanics and kinetic theory.
     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PHYS 3500 - Advanced Laboratory I - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    Selected experiments from all areas of physics with emphasis on independent work in the design of experiments, computer data acquisition and analysis, report writing and oral presentation.
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700.
  
  • PHYS 3700 - Electronics

    Hours: 3
    Lecture and laboratory.  Introduction to electronic circuits, passive and active circuit elements, and devices such as operational amplifiers and transducers.
     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 1600 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PHYS 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 1-4
    Independent study of physics or physics-related topics, including astronomy, industrial applications, or science education. Limited to no more than five hours cumulative credit.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700, 7 hours of core physics courses required for the major, and approval of a study plan by the department.

  
  • PHYS 4000 - Quantum Mechanics

    Hours: 4
     

    Foundations of quantum mechanics: the Schrödinger equation, one-dimensional systems, angular momentum and spin, the hydrogen atom, multi-particle systems.
     

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700.

  
  • PHYS 4100 - Solid State Physics

    Hours: 4
    Solids, liquids, and macroscopic quantum states of matter, superconductivity and superfluidity.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700.

  
  • PHYS 4200 - Subatomic Physics

    Hours: 4
    Nuclear structure and reactions, elementary particles and fundamental processes.
     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700.
  
  • PHYS 4500 - Advanced Laboratory II - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    A continuation of PHYS 3500 with more sophisticated experiments and analysis leading to independent student inquiry and research.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 3500.

  
  • PHYS 4601 - Mathematical Methods of Physics

    Hours: 4
    A survey of advanced mathematical techniques used in physics. Topics covered may include vector analysis, matrices, tensors, and groups, complex analysis, Fourier series and integrals, and boundary and initial value problems.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 3000.

  
  • PHYS 4602 - General Relativity

    Hours: 4
    Introduction to the general theory of relativity with application to cosmology. Gravitation as space-time geometry, geodesics, the Schwarzschild metric, the big bang and the large-scale structure of the universe, gravitational waves, black holes.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 3000.

  
  • PHYS 4603 - Advanced Quantum Theory

    Hours: 2-4
    Advanced topics in quantum theory. Topics may include time-dependent perturbation theory, semi-classical methods, and scattering theory, with applications to atomic and molecular systems.
     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 4000.
  
  • PHYS 4701 - Materials Physics

    Hours: 2-4
    A survey of materials science and engineering including processing, structure, properties, and performance. Physical aspects of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. Applications are presented in a variety of modern contexts.
     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700.
  
  • PHYS 4702 - Advanced Classical Mechanics

    Hours: 2-4
    Advanced topics in classical dynamics. Topics covered may include rigid-body motion, non-inertial reference frames, continuum and wave mechanics, and chaos.

     
    Prerequisites: PHYS 3000.

  
  • PHYS 4703 - Computational Physics

    Hours: 2-4
    A survey of computational methods used in physics. Topics may include techniques for numerical quadrature, solution of ordinary and/or partial differential equations, Monte Carlo simulations, genetic algorithms, parallel computing and visualization. Applications are taken from all areas of physics.
    Prerequisites: PHYS 1600.
  
  • PHYS 4704 - Astrophysics

    Hours: 2-4
    Selected topics in astrophysics, including the dynamics of astronomical bodies, stellar nucleosynthesis and stellar evolution, cosmic rays, and cosmology.
    Prerequisites: PHYS 2700.
  
  • PHYS 4800 - Research

    Hours: 2-4
    Directed research in an experimental or theoretical area of physics of interest to the department. Limited to no more than six hours cumulative credit.


     
    Prerequisites: 20 hours of physics courses and approval of a research plan by the department.

  
  • POLS 1000 - American National Government

    Hours: 4
    A survey of the institutions, processes, and politics of the government of the United States. Particular emphasis is placed on the historic development of federalism, the Congress, the Presidency, the Judiciary, the national bureaucracy, political parties, and interest groups.
  
  • POLS 1150 - Introduction to Political Theory

    Hours: 4
    An introduction to the study of political philosophy and survey of the major thinkers in the Western political tradition, from Plato to the present, including an examination of the principal concepts and theories.
  
  • POLS 1300 - Introduction to Global Politics

    Hours: 4
    This course introduces the student to world political systems and theories of interaction in the global community. It provides a framework for understanding international issues and problems.
  
  • POLS 2270 - Comparative Government

    Hours: 4
    An introduction to the comparative method of analysis as applied to nation-states and regional governments of the world. Emphasis may be on western or non-western nation-states.
  
  • POLS 2300 - Methods of Research and Inquiry in Political Science

    Hours: 4
    A seminar required for majors in political science, designed to acquaint students with basic procedures, material and research tools used by political scientists. Students will be introduced to qualitative and quantitative aspects of the discipline.
  
  • POLS 2400 - Democratic Theory and Citizenship

    Hours: 4
    This course examines the historical development of and contemporary debates regarding the meaning of democracy. The course will examine the ideas, possibilities, and limitations of democratic governance, as well as the conceptual, theoretical, and institutional understandings of democracy in relation to participatory democracy, liberalism, and representation.
  
  • POLS 2450 - The Political Film

    Hours: 2
    The Political Film provides an opportunity to examine the culture industry by investigating how movies (and entertainment more generally) structures ideology and inform a critique of political life. Power will be examined through a study of the way culture is framed, produced, and consumed. The course involves taking a critical approach to popular media, especially film.
  
  • POLS 3000 - American Legislative Process

    Hours: 4
    This course examines the legislative and representative process with attention to the committee system, seniority, party leadership, and relations with other branches of government. Primary focus is on the U.S. Congress and its norms, rules, and procedures.
  
  • POLS 3050 - Judicial Process

    Hours: 4
    Analyzes the role of federal and state courts as political institutions, with special attention to the roles of judges and lawyers in the judicial process. Civil and criminal courts are studied, as well as judicial norms and procedures.
  
  • POLS 3100 - Contemporary Politics in State and Local Government

    Hours: 4
    This course examines state and local government structures, operations, and intergovernmental processes in the United States. The state and local governments of Ohio are used as a basis for providing comparative analysis among state and local governments.
  
  • POLS 3250 - Introduction to Public Administration

    Hours: 4
    This introductory course in public administration explores responsive, equitable, effective, efficient, and accountable governance processes, public policies, and institutional-base programs. Set within a context of contemporary political, social, economic, and administrative realities. The course examines essential competencies, values, and issues important to public service organizations and the importance of public policy at the local, state, national and international levels.
  
  • POLS 3280 - Environmental Political Theory

    Hours: 4
    This course examines key perspectives and contemporary currents in environmental political theory. The course will consider the issues of political practice and the underlying theoretical questions concerning environmental and ecological politics. The course will analyze the actors, spaces, and power relations of environmental politics in relation to the different ways to think about the natural environment and the major themes of politics and political theory, such as law, policy, social movements, political economy, subjectivity, justice, citizenship, and democracy.
  
  • POLS 3300 - The Presidency

    Hours: 4
    The evolution of presidential power and theories of presidential behavior. The function of the Electoral College and the primary system in presidential elections are examined. The role of the Executive Office and the bureaucracy is explored.
  
  • POLS 3350 - Campaigns and Elections

    Hours: 4
    A study of the structure, functions, and operations of political parties, elections, public opinion, the media, and interest groups in American national politics.
     
  
  • POLS 3480 - Gender and Feminist Political Theory

    Hours: 4
    This course examines key debates in gender and feminist political theory, including the understanding of politics as the study of power, conceptions of gender, the role of women in political thought, and how gendered identities are conceived and organized in contemporary politics and society.
  
  • POLS 3510 - Special Topics in American Law and Politics

    Hours: 1-4
    This variable topics seminar offers and in-depth examination of a timely or specialized subject focused on American law and/or politics. Past topics have included Affirmative Action, the 2000 Election, and Law and Society.
    Notes: May be repeated once for credit when offered with a different topic.
  
  • POLS 3520 - Special Topics in Global Politics

    Hours: 1-4
    This course offers an in-depth examination of a timely or specialized subject focused on Global Politics.
    Notes: May be repeated once for credit when offered with a different topic.
  
  • POLS 3530 - Contemporary Political Thought

    Hours: 4
    This course offers an in-depth examination of a timely or specialized subject focused on Political Theory, such as Critical Theory, Radical and Revolutionary Political Thought, Conservative Political Thought and Islamic Political Thought.
  
  • POLS 3550 - American Foreign Policy

    Hours: 4
    The course will focus on the problems involved in the formulation and execution of United States foreign policy, emphasizing the post-World War II period.
  
  • POLS 3870 - Terrorism and Genocide

    Hours: 4
    This course analyzes the causes and consequences of violence perpetrated against civilians by governments (genocide) and by non-state actors (terrorism). Special attention will be given to how genocide and terrorism have been organized throughout history, and how they have evolved into their current applications. The course will explore the extent to which religion, nationality, race, ethnicity, and patriarchy serve as motivating principles for genocide and terrorism.
  
  • POLS 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 1-4
    Independent study.
    Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.
    Notes: Open only to majors in Political Science.
  
  • POLS 4100 - International Law and Institutions

    Hours: 4
    Studies the evolution of international law as it has been generated from international conferences, regional organizations, intergovernmental organizations, the League of Nations, the United Nations and its International Court of Justice. Special attention is given to the legal status of states and dependencies, rules of international diplomacy, refugees, women, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
  
  • POLS 4200 - Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties and Civial Rights

    Hours: 4
    Analyzes the principles of the American constitution and Supreme Court decision-making. A case method approach is used to examine concepts such as judicial review, separation of powers, equal protection of the law, race and sex discrimination, voting rights, the right to privacy, freedom of speech and religion, due process, and the rights of the accused. Principles of legal reasoning are discussed. The course is especially recommended for students preparing for law school or legal careers.
  
  • POLS 4450 - Marxian Political Thought

    Hours: 4
    This course examines the political thought and practice arising from the works of Karl Marx, including the notions of historical materialism, dialectics, alienation, political economy, and revolutionary practice. Extensive reading of the works of Marx and Engels and later Marxian thinkers and actors.
  
  • POLS 4640 - Theories of Social Justice

    Hours: 4
    This course explores the notion of social justice in relation to competing theories of justice and in relation to the topics of poverty, equality, opportunity, race, class, gender, and sexuality. This course is organized around the political and philosophical question of “what are the basic features and necessary conditions to establish a socially just society?” The readings will include classical thinkers, as well as contemporary theories and debates related to social justice.
  
  • POLS 4690 - Globalization, Justice, and Democracy

    Hours: 4
    This course examines contemporary debates concerning democracy, justice, and human rights in relation to early-21st century forms of globalization and international political economy.
  
  • POLS 4820 - Middle East Politics

    Hours: 4
    A study of contemporary domestic and foreign politics in the Middle East, including the Arab-Israeli conflict, the politics of oil, the impact of religion, the clash of national sentiments, and the role of global and regional powers in the affairs of these countries.
  
  • POLS 4850 - East Asian Politics

    Hours: 4
    A specialized historical examination of the military, political, social, and economic relations among nation-states of East Asia.
  
  • POLS 4880 - African Politics

    Hours: 4
    Explores the post-colonial politics of sub-Saharan African states, with special reference to issues of nation-building, ethno-politics, challenges of development, regional cooperation, and Pan-African unity.
  
  • POLS 4900 - Internship

    Hours: 1-16
    Credit is available for work with governmental agencies, political candidates, lobbies, and other private institutions interested in the public sector.
    Notes: Political Science majors only.
  
  • POLS 4920 - Model United Nations

    Hours: 4
    Studies the structure and processes of the United Nations through participation in Model U.N. programs. Students will represent delegates to a simulated U.N. forum, preparing background information on countries, issues, position papers, and resolutions. Parliamentary procedure also will be studied.
  
  • PSYC 1000 - Psychology for Non-Majors

    Hours: 4
    A study of the human being from a range of perspectives in psychology. The course introduces the major concepts, theories, methods, and findings in the areas of neuropsychology, perception, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, family systems, health, personality, therapy, creativity, and social and societal interactions. The course integrates the theories and research in each major area of psychology and applies general psychological principles to other disciplines, contributing to a fuller understanding of people’s inner and social lives. Prior coursework in Psychology is not required.
    Notes: This course may be used as a substitute for the INST Interconnections (INST 2000’s) requirement.
  
  • PSYC 1050 - General Psychology - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 4
    Lecture and laboratory.  A survey of the field of psychology, examining the biological, cognitive, and social bases of human thought, emotion, and action. Topics include research methods, neuropsychology, perception, learning and memory, language, consciousness, theories of personality, social interactions, cultural influences, abnormal behavior, and psychotherapy. An emphasis will be placed on the scientific study of psychological phenomena and the application of research findings to people’s lives. Laboratory participation is required.

     

  
  • PSYC 1060 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

    Hours: 4
    This course emphasizes theory and application of basic statistical techniques. Students will learn the fundamentals of research design and data analysis and will gain familiarity with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), a common tool for students and researchers in psychology.
    Prerequisites: A C- or better in ASC 0900 or qualification through Otterbein’s Mathematics Placement Exam.
  
  • PSYC 2000 - Lifespan Development

    Hours: 4
    This course will examine human development throughout the lifespan, from conception through death. Combining theory, research, and practical applications, the course will progress chronologically through the lifespan, with an emphasis on biological, cognitive, and psychosocial development during each developmental period. Specific periods that will be addressed include prenatal development, birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence, emerging adulthood, middle adulthood, and late adulthood, including aging and end-of-life issues. The course is intended for students in health, athletic, and social service disciplines and is not part of the psychology major.
  
  • PSYC 2051 - Professional Development

    Hours: 0.5
    All Psychology majors are required to enroll in the PSYC 2051 – 2054 series each semester after declaring the major. Each of these courses which carries 0.5 hrs of credit is to be taken twice: once in Fall and once in Spring. The purpose of this series is to help prepare you for graduate school or a career in psychology/related fields and to promote a sense of community among psychology majors and faculty. Each term, you will meet with students in your year for three class meetings, and you will also be required to attend two joint classes with students from all years of the major. In this course, you will learn about the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform your career and/or graduate school decisions. You will also learn about opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. You will keep an online portfolio of your work, such as resumes and writing samples, throughout your time as a major. In addition, you will learn about many topics that often interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, to what you can do with your degree in psychology. In addition, each Fall, an outside speaker on psychology will be brought to campus, and each Spring you will attend the Psychology Research Reporting Day. This course is graded pass/fail.
    Notes: Register for the course corresponding to the year you are in school, not earned credits. Freshman, PSYC 2051; sophomores, PSYC 2052; juniors, PSYC 2053; seniors, PSYC 2054.
  
  • PSYC 2052 - Professional Development

    Hours: 0.5
    All Psychology majors are required to enroll in the PSYC 2051 – 2054 series each semester after declaring the major. Each of these courses which carries 0.5 hrs of credit is to be taken twice: once in Fall and once in Spring. The purpose of this series is to help prepare you for graduate school or a career in psychology/related fields and to promote a sense of community among psychology majors and faculty. Each term, you will meet with students in your year for three class meetings, and you will also be required to attend two joint classes with students from all years of the major. In this course, you will learn about the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform your career and/or graduate school decisions. You will also learn about opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. You will keep an online portfolio of your work, such as resumes and writing samples, throughout your time as a major. In addition, you will learn about many topics that often interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, to what you can do with your degree in psychology. In addition, each Fall, an outside speaker on psychology will be brought to campus, and each Spring you will attend the Psychology Research Reporting Day. This course is graded pass/fail.
    Notes: Register for the course corresponding to the year you are in school, not earned credits. Freshman, PSYC 2051; sophomores, PSYC 2052; juniors, PSYC 2053; seniors, PSYC 2054.
  
  • PSYC 2053 - Professional Development

    Hours: 0.5
    All Psychology majors are required to enroll in the PSYC 2051 – 2054 series each semester after declaring the major. Each of these courses which carries 0.5 hrs of credit is to be taken twice: once in Fall and once in Spring. The purpose of this series is to help prepare you for graduate school or a career in psychology/related fields and to promote a sense of community among psychology majors and faculty. Each term, you will meet with students in your year for three class meetings, and you will also be required to attend two joint classes with students from all years of the major. In this course, you will learn about the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform your career and/or graduate school decisions. You will also learn about opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. You will keep an online portfolio of your work, such as resumes and writing samples, throughout your time as a major. In addition, you will learn about many topics that often interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, to what you can do with your degree in psychology. In addition, each Fall, an outside speaker on psychology will be brought to campus, and each Spring you will attend the Psychology Research Reporting Day. This course is graded pass/fail.
    Notes: Register for the course corresponding to the year you are in school, not earned credits. Freshman, PSYC 2051; sophomores, PSYC 2052; juniors, PSYC 2053; seniors, PSYC 2054.
  
  • PSYC 2054 - Professional Development

    Hours: 0.5
    All Psychology majors are required to enroll in the PSYC 2051 – 2054 series each semester after declaring the major. Each of these courses which carries 0.5 hrs of credit is to be taken twice: once in Fall and once in Spring. The purpose of this series is to help prepare you for graduate school or a career in psychology/related fields and to promote a sense of community among psychology majors and faculty. Each term, you will meet with students in your year for three class meetings, and you will also be required to attend two joint classes with students from all years of the major. In this course, you will learn about the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform your career and/or graduate school decisions. You will also learn about opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. You will keep an online portfolio of your work, such as resumes and writing samples, throughout your time as a major. In addition, you will learn about many topics that often interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, to what you can do with your degree in psychology. In addition, each Fall, an outside speaker on psychology will be brought to campus, and each Spring you will attend the Psychology Research Reporting Day. This course is graded pass/fail.
    Notes: Register for the course corresponding to the year you are in school, not earned credits. Freshman, PSYC 2051; sophomores, PSYC 2052; juniors, PSYC 2053; seniors, PSYC 2054.
  
  • PSYC 2310 - Child and Adolescent Development

    Hours: 4
    This course is an examination of human development during the early years of life, including prenatal development, birth, infancy, childhood, and adolescence. Emphasis is placed on how humans grow and change physically, emotionally and cognitively; the influence of biological, psychological, and social factors on early development are considered. Examples of topics addressed in this course include learning, attachment, language, sex roles, and parenting.
  
  • PSYC 2320 - Adult Development

    Hours: 4
    This course examines psychological research and theoretical approaches related to changes that affect individuals as they progress from early adulthood to old age. Changes in the physical, cognitive, mental health, and interpersonal domains as well as adjustment to major life transitions are considered. Examples of topics addressed in this course include marriage and family, work and leisure, ageism, retirement, and dying and bereavement.
  
  • PSYC 2330 - Psychology of Personality

    Hours: 4
    The purpose of this course is to introduce you to personality psychology. We will discuss the origins, evolution, main themes and major applications of some of the most influential personality theories. We will evaluate the empirical data supporting and challenging each theory, discuss the social and psychological implications of the various theories, and assess their contributions to our understanding of self and others. At the end of this course you should be able to: 1) broadly discuss different approaches to personality and the general challenges inherent in the attempt to define and measure personality; 2) appreciate the role of critical empirical inquiry in evaluating theoretical claims regarding personality; 3) appreciate the multidimensional nature of human behavior and the importance of context in shaping our understanding and perceptions.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050.
  
  • PSYC 2410 - Diversity in Psychology

    Hours: 4
    This course provides a broad based introduction to contemporary and historical issues that have explicit and implicit psychological relevance and import for visible racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Societal groups highlighted include: African Americans, Chinese Americans, Japanese Americans, Mexican Americans, Puerto Rican Americans, and American Indians. A variety of pedagogical approaches are used to increase cross cultural knowledge and enhance students’ individual cross cultural awareness and appreciation. Psychology is foundational to the course although paradigms and literature reviewed merge with related disciplines.
    Prerequisites: Sophomore standing; prior coursework in Psychology is not required.
  
  • PSYC 2500 - Research Methods I

    Hours: 4
    This course provides a basic introduction to issues and problems in methods and inference in psychological research. Students will learn the fundamentals of a variety of methods including surveys and correlational design, experiments, and quasi-experiments. An important component of this course is participation in laboratory experience and research, including collecting and analyzing data.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and a C- or better in PSYC 1060, and a minimum of sophomore standing or permission of the instructor.
  
  • PSYC 2610 - Social Psychology

    Hours: 4
    This course focuses on all the ways humans interact with other humans. The course emphasizes the power of situations in shaping human behavior and thought, but also the power of thought in creating our individual social realities. Among other important applications, you will learn how to persuade others and resist persuasion, how to address stereotyping, racism, and sexism, what the important aspects of romantic relationships are, what the relationship between media influences and violence is, and how to promote altruistic behaviors. Your main objectives in this class are to understand what social psychology is, the issues that are studied and how they relate to our everyday lives. In pursuit of this objective, you will gain an appreciation for the basic concepts underlying social psychology and become familiar with some of the better known theories and research findings. You will also learn how to read social psychology literature and how to be a critical consumer of psychology research.
  
  • PSYC 3110 - Physiological Psychology

    Hours: 4
    This course introduces the physiological systems that underlie behavior with emphasis on the structure and function of the nervous system, neurotransmitters and the sensory systems. Research methods unique to the field of physiological psychology will be discussed. Clinically relevant topics include but are not limited to Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and schizophrenia.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and PSYC 2500 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 3120 - Psychology of Perception

    Hours: 4
    This course provides a basic introduction to sensations, sensory processes, and their organization into perceptions. Human perception, particularly vision and hearing will be addressed. Psychophysical, physiological and cognitive perspectives are covered. Psychological factors influencing the perception of depth, form, movement, color and illusions will be included. Themes running throughout the course include perceptual loss, perceptual recovery and perceptual learning.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and PSYC 2500 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 3130 - Stress and Health Psychology

    Hours: 4
    This course addresses an array of topics related to the mind-body connection, with particular emphases on psychophysiology and the links between stress, health, and wellness. Exploring the physiology of stress, various body systems are reviewed, including the central and peripheral nervous systems as well as the limbic, endocrine, and immune systems; such foci are germane to understanding the burgeoning discipline of Psychoneuroimmunology. The role of psychological processes in the development and treatment of medical conditions such as heart problems, obesity, addiction, and cancer will also be explored. Also, the role of self regulation in illness prevention and health maintenance is addressed theoretically and practically as basic biofeedback and other behaviorally-based health interventions (e.g. mindfulness meditation) are covered.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050, and sophomore status.
  
  • PSYC 3210 - Abnormal Psychology

    Hours: 4
    This course focuses on adult psychopathology. It incorporates a broad overview of various categories of “mental disorders” outlined in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) as well as other systems for “mental disorder” classification. Specific categories of disorders reviewed may include: Adjustment, Mood, Anxiety, Personality, Dissociative, Thought, and Sexual Disorders. The course will also explore perennial trends, controversies, and issues in the field of Abnormal Psychology. Various theoretical paradigms purported to explain psychopathology will be reviewed. A Multicultural paradigm will be introduced as pertaining to issues in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of ethnic populations.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050, and sophomore status.
  
  • PSYC 3410 - Human Sexuality

    Hours: 4
    This class covers topics in human sexuality, including the biology of sexual behavior, the sexual response cycle, socio-cultural influences on sexuality, sex and reproduction, sexual deviance, and gender roles. The purpose of this class is to introduce students to theoretical and applied issues in the scientific study of human sexuality. We explore the biological, psychological, and cultural aspects of human sexuality in the context of the empirical research literature as well as students’ personal experiences and value systems. Human sexuality is a complex and often controversial subject, as it touches on deep personal feelings, beliefs, and experiences. This class aims to provide all students with an opportunity to examine, explore, and reflect on issues of sexuality in a safe, supportive environment. To facilitate this process, students are asked to respect diversity of opinion and ideas, remain open to growth and change, and seek to understand first and make informed judgments later.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050.
  
  • PSYC 3420 - Psychology of Women

    Hours: 4
    The general objective of this course is to introduce students to the scientific study of the psychology of women. We will be examining the lives of girls and women, including such topics as the development of gender roles, gender comparisons, media portrayals of women and work, motherhood, love relationships, women’s physical and mental health, violence against women, and women in later adulthood. Particular efforts will be made to take a multicultural perspective and to consider the interaction of gender, race, and class. There will be an emphasis on the importance of empirical research to the study of gender issues and all students will complete an empirical research project. There will also be an applied service-learning portion of the class working with local agencies that serve girls and women. Students who take this course should acquire an understanding of psychological theories and research related to women and what it means to be a contemporary woman in the United States and in other countries.
  
  • PSYC 3500 - Research Methods II

    Hours: 4
    This course builds on the foundations established in PSYC 2500. Students, working independently or in pairs design a true experimental manipulation of their choosing. Students may design and implement computer based studies, but data collection must take place in controlled environs. Students will conduct a thorough review of the literature in a field, collect data, analyze data using available statistical packages, write a final report, and prepare an oral presentation of 10-15 minutes for the end of the quarter. These presentations will be submitted to OUPRC, a statewide undergraduate psychology conference taking place the next-to-last Saturday in April.
    Prerequisites: A C- or better in PSYC 2500.
  
  • PSYC 3510 - Assessment

    Hours: 4
    The purpose of this class is to introduce students to the basic theory and practice of psychological testing and assessment. The first part of the class focuses on the basic principles of test construction and evaluation and the application of these principles to intelligence and educational testing. We will discuss and try to answer questions such as: What is the purpose of psychological assessment? What makes a test good? How can tests and testing be abused? Who decides what and whom to test? Are psychological constructs such as intelligence really measurable?  The second part of this class focuses on the theory and practice of personality, clinical, neuropsychological, and workplace assessment. Students will become familiar with the theory, methods and uses of clinical assessment and acquire a basic understanding of the methods and purpose of neuropsychological testing. We will discuss and try to answer questions such as: Is there such thing as personality? If so, can it be assessed usefully? What is the purpose of personality assessment? How can personality tests and testing be abused? The goal is to help students gain an appreciation of both the challenge and the promise of psychological testing so that they become better consumers of tests, test interpretations, and information about testing.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and 1060.
  
  • PSYC 3610 - Cognitive Psychology

    Hours: 4
    An introduction to the psychological study of mental processes. Using a broad, research-based approach, the course explores critical concepts, theories, paradoxes, and applications involved in the study of the mind. Topics include the interface between perception and cognition, consciousness, learning, memory, self, language, cognitive therapies, the interplay between cognitive and social processes, representation of knowledge, and artificial intelligence.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2500 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 3710 - Seminar

    Hours: 4
    This course presents specific topics in research psychology that have produced significant findings in the past decade, especially in the areas of Cognitive, Perceptual, Physiological, Social, Developmental, Health, and Environmental Psychology. Examples of such seminars have been gender and close relationships, disaster psychology, and the self. A different research area may be considered each time the course is offered, and the course will be appropriately subtitled to describe the current focus. Seminars will include lecture, discussion, and student presentations and will be taught at the junior-level, taking advantage of the student’s prior course work while further preparing these students for research as seniors.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2500 or permission of the instructor.
    Notes: Course may be repeated once for a total of 8 credits. Paired with INST 4200 or PHIL 3200 to fulfill the dyad requirement.
  
  • PSYC 3720 - Industrial and Organizational Psychology

    Hours: 4
    Industrial/organizational psychologists study human behavior as it occurs in work settings, however, there are many separate areas of specialization. This course will provide an overview of the many areas on I/O Psychology. It will also provide and understanding of both the science and the practice (application) of industrial/organizational psychology. Finally, the course will consider the role of industrial/organizational psychology in the ever-changing workplace of today and of the future. Some of the topics covered are personnel assessment, performance appraisal, work motivation, employee attitude assessment, leadership, group processes in the workplace, stress in the workplace, and multicultural and globalization issues.
  
  • PSYC 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 1-4
    Course designed to provide opportunity to engage in independent study in areas not otherwise available.
    Prerequisites: Faculty member willing to supervise.
  
  • PSYC 4000 - History and Systems in Psychology

    Hours: 4
    This course will focus on the history of psychology along with the major themes and movements that have emerged and influenced the development of the field. Topics include the physiological and philosophical origins of scientific psychology; the rise of dynamic psychology; early experimental and quantitative psychology; the structuralism/functionalism debate; animal learning and the origins of behaviorism; World War I and mental testing; neobehaviorism; the influence of Gestalt psychology; and World War II and the cognitive revolution. The course offers an integrative perspective on the varied courses of the Psychology major and is recommended as preparation for the advanced GRE in psychology.
  
  • PSYC 4210 - Developmental Psychopathology

    Hours: 4
    This course considers what happens when development goes awry. Particular attention is paid to understanding and defining psychological problems in light of typical development during childhood and adolescence. Developmental delays and behavioral, learning, and emotional problems in childhood and adolescence are considered. Through the examination of theoretical models, hypothesized causes, symptom configuration, and common treatments, this course introduces students to many ways in which development can be adversely affected and corrected.
  
  • PSYC 4220 - Psychotherapy

    Hours: 4
    This course looks at the main psychological theories—and their attendant therapeutic modalities—that aim to understand and reduce human suffering and mental illness. Select traditional and contemporary theories and therapeutic approaches are reviewed. The role of a-theoretical, nonspecific “curative factors,” associated with psycho-emotional healing will also be explored. The class will explore the concepts of ‘treatment plan’ and ‘case conceptualization’ and their role in turning theory into therapy. The development of basic communication skills and experimentation with select psychotherapy techniques and/or interventions are emphasized in the latter part of the course. Issues and practices relevant to conducting psychotherapy with members of diverse populations as well as ethical considerations and requirements for therapists are also addressed.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2330, and junior or senior standing.
  
  • PSYC 4510 - Research Practicum

    Hours: 4
    A focused experience in one research area of psychology. This course will provide experience in all aspects of research, including expertise in the relevant literature, research design, data analysis, and writing for publication.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2500 and permission of instructor.
    Notes: Course may be repeated once for a total of 8 credits.
  
  • PSYC 4520 - Advanced Topics

    Hours: 4
    This course allows interested students to pursue further coursework in topics that are offered at the survey level. Topics will change each semester but will include advanced versions of Cognitive, Perceptual, Physiological, Social, Developmental, Health, and Environmental Psychology among others.
    Notes: May be repeated for credit when offered with a different topic.
  
  • PSYC 4610 - Cognitive Development

    Hours: 4
    This course examines the development of cognitive functioning from infancy through adolescence. Major models of cognitive development, such as Piaget’s stage theory and the information processing approach, are covered. Examples of topics addressed include the development of memory, learning, perception, language, and problem solving. This course is conducted in a seminar format in which students are required to read, discuss, and write about empirical research articles.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2310.
  
  • PSYC 4900 - Internship

    Hours: 1-16
    Supervised experience in a cooperating agency or institution. Particular internships are designed with regard to skills of the student and depend on the willingness of a faculty member to work with and supervise qualified and highly motivated students toward such placements.
    Prerequisites: Junior or senior status and appropriate course prerequisites.
 

Page: 1 <- Back 104 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14