Psychology
Why pursue a psychology degree at North Central College?
Psychologists are experts in learning, human behavior and mental health. They diagnose and provide treatments for mental health issues, select and train employees for businesses and organizations, collect and analyze data for government and not-for-profit agencies and explore questions about the human condition. Our program is designed to prepare you to understand and explain thoughts, emotions, feelings and behaviors. Psychology offers a wide range of career paths with a broad curriculum. At North Central, you will have access to our Schwab Psychology Research Center, treadmill lab and sleep lab to collect data. We facilitate hands-on learning and encourage working with dedicated faculty on individualized projects. A career in psychology can lead you to many areas including counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, research, consumer psychology and more.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN
- Understanding human behavior
- Analyzing emotions
- Solving organizational problems with psychology concepts
then a degree in PSYCHOLOGY might be for you.
Why study psychology at North Central College?
In the Classroom
Coursework topics:
- Child development
- Cognitive psychology
- Cultural psychology
- Drugs and behavior
- Educational psychology
- Health psychology
- Industrial psychology
- Learning
- Research design and experimentation
- Psychological assessment
- Psychology of adolescence
- Psychopathology of the child
- Social psychology
- Statistics
Beyond the Classroom
As a psychology major, you can:
- Present findings of your original research at regional and national psychology conferences.
- Apply for a Richter Grant and explore topics such as eating disorders, bullying, memory disorders, persuasion and humor.
- Join Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology.
- Join the Psychology Club open to all majors and minors in psychology.
- Engage in paid internships or co-ops, working side-by-side with professionals while you complete your degree.
Psychology, B.S.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Psychology and Neuroscience.
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PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the basic concepts, processes, theories and empirical findings concerning the behavior of organisms. Consideration is given to the following topics: physiological and developmental basis of behavior, sensory and perceptual processes, states of consciousness, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion, as well as personality, intellectual functioning, psychopathology, and social influences on behavior. Community engaged learning and/or an active research experience is used to further student understanding of course topics. Gateway course.
-
PSYC 250 - Statistics
PSYC 250 - Statistics
4.00 credit hours
The methods, concepts and logic underlying the statistical evaluation of research data with an emphasis on "why" as well as "when" to use various statistical methods. Content includes descriptive and inferential statistics, estimation and hypothesis testing. Analyses include z and t tests, one-way and factorial ANOVA, correlation, regression and Chi square. Assignments focus on problem solving, technical writing and use of computer statistical packages (SPSS). Only one of
-
PSYC 255 - Research Design and Experimentation
PSYC 255 - Research Design and Experimentation
4.00 credit hours
Students further their understanding of the scientific research process through lectures, activities and laboratory experiences. Students are introduced to various research designs, including naturalistic observation, case studies, correlational research and experimental research. Students use their knowledge of the research process to collect, analyze and critically think about original data. This course is writing intensive and requires working with a team to complete a significant research project. Laboratory required.
-
PSYC 293 - Careers in Psychology and Neuroscience
PSYC 293 - Careers in Psychology and Neuroscience
2.00 credit hours
An exploration of various career options in psychology, neuroscience, and related fields. By collaborating with other students, instructors, and resource people both inside and outside of the North Central community, students learn about a wide range of careers possible with a major in psychology or neuroscience, as well as how to successfully prepare for one's chosen future career.
-
PSYC 360 - Psychological Assessment
PSYC 360 - Psychological Assessment
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to key concepts, methods, and ethical considerations associated with psychological assessment. A key goal is for students to understand psychometric techniques so that they can read, understand, and interpret test results. Topics include an overview of true score, item response, and generalizability theories. Special emphasis is placed on the ethical and appropriate use of tests and the intersection between testing and contemporary society. Special topics include testing in the areas of intelligence, personality, attitudes, interests, and abilities.
Perspectives
One course from each of the following:
Developmental
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PSYC 210 - Child Development
PSYC 210 - Child Development
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research from the field of child development are studied in order to better understand the child's physical, language, cognitive, social, and emotional development from birth to adolescence.
-
PSYC 220 - Psychology of Adolescence
PSYC 220 - Psychology of Adolescence
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research in the area of adolescent psychology are examined to better understand the major developmental tasks of adolescence, such as forming an identity and developing mature relations with peers, family and possible mates.
-
PSYC 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
PSYC 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research about the developmental tasks of adulthood, beginning with the transition from adolescence to young adulthood and ending with the issues faced by the oldest members of our society. Topics include identity, adult relationships, sexuality, careers and retirement, health and wellness, the biological process underlying aging, and the pursuit of "successful aging."
-
PSYC 235 - Lifespan Development
PSYC 235 - Lifespan Development
4.00 credit hours
An exploration of development across the lifespan from conception to death. Both normal and abnormal patterns of development in various cultures and contexts are examined.
Biological
-
NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience
NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the manner in which genetic, environmental, biochemical, and physiological factors contribute to the neurological basis of behavior. Special attention is given to neural contributions of reproduction, psychopharmacology, fear, learning, stress, ingestion, communication, memory, and psychiatric disorders.
-
NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior
NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the dynamic relationship between how drugs act on the brain and behavior. Topics include the properties of drug action, differentiating drug use and drug dependence, physical versus psychological dependence, as well as the legal and social implications of drug use. A range of legal and illegal drugs such as stimulants, depressants, alcohol, opiates, hallucinogens, and pharmaceutical drugs are investigated.
Learning/Cognitive
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PSYC 340 - Learning
PSYC 340 - Learning
4.00 credit hours
The scientific study of how animals and humans learn from a historical perspective. Course work emphasizes theory, evidence, methodology, and application of the research to education, clinical settings, parenting, and training animals. Classical and operant conditioning are the main focus with observational learning, memory research, and biological factors included. Laboratory required.
-
PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology
PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology
4.00 credit hours
Students further their understanding of the scientific study of mental processes, including sensation, perception, attention, memory, knowledge representation, speech and language, decision-making, and problem solving. Students also explore the brain physiology underlying these processes and the cognitive consequences of brain injury and disease. Course work emphasizes the history, theory, methodology, and application of research in the field. Laboratory required.
Personality/Abnormal
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PSYC 320 - Personality
PSYC 320 - Personality
4.00 credit hours
A survey of major models of personality, including psychodynamic, biological and trait, behavioral, and humanistic-existential paradigms. Each paradigm is discussed by addressing its unique assumptions about human nature, methodological approaches, assessment techniques, and use of evidence. Special emphasis is placed on applications in clinical/counseling, educational, industrial/organization, and other relevant settings.
-
PSYC 324 - Abnormal Psychology
PSYC 324 - Abnormal Psychology
4.00 credit hours
The classification, etiology, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders in adolescents and adults, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders. Particular emphasis is placed on discussion of stigma and social issues in the field.
-
PSYC 325 - Child Psychopathology
PSYC 325 - Child Psychopathology
4.00 credit hours
Understanding the causes, diagnostic criteria, and treatment of psychological disorders in children and adolescents (including such diverse problems as childhood depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and autism). Particular emphasis is placed on treatment modalities that are specific to problems in childhood, such as parent training, play therapy, and family therapy.
Social/Cultural Diversity
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PSYC 240 - Social Psychology
PSYC 240 - Social Psychology
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the theories and research regarding human social behavior. Topics include social perception, self-perception, attitudes, social influence, attraction, altruism, aggression, group effects, and environmental psychology.
-
PSYC 310 - Cultural Psychology
PSYC 310 - Cultural Psychology
4.00 credit hours
An examination of how definitions of culture shape knowledge about topics in psychology, such as human development, self-concept, and mental illness. The focus is on psychological and anthropological approaches to studying culture.
Capstone
Four credit hours from one of the following:
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PSYC 497 - Internship
PSYC 497 - Internship
0.00-12.00 credit hours
Internships supplement classroom instruction by providing valuable professional experiences and allowing students to apply psychological theories and concepts to broader social issues and systems. This internship experience is designed to assist students in exploring career options and to link this experience to important issues and trends in the psychology literature. Students complete required hours in the field, critically reflect on this experience, and write a substantial APA-style literature review/hypothesis paper directly related to this experience. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation with the option of spreading credits over two semesters. Capstone.
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PSYC 498 - Senior Thesis
PSYC 498 - Senior Thesis
1.00-4.00 credit hours
Students work in collaboration with faculty to produce a culminating research experience. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include critical reading of peer-reviewed articles; formulation of a research question and hypothesis; design of the study; IRB application; creation of materials; recruitment of participants; and data collection, coding, entry, statistical analysis and evaluation. Students write an APA-style journal paper and present at a student or professional conference. Students earning credit for a capstone experience must complete a minimum of four credit hours, with the option of spreading credits over two semesters. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation.
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CSCE 160 - Introduction to Computer Programming
CSCE 160 - Introduction to Computer Programming
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to computer science and programming, emphasizing the development of algorithms and problem solving skills using both procedural and object-oriented approaches. Topics include data types; I/O; arithmetic, relational and logical operators; control structures; functions; simple data structures; different computing environments such as the Linux operating system are also explored. Integrated laboratory.
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MATH 151 - Calculus I
MATH 151 - Calculus I
4.00 credit hours
An exploration of the fundamental concepts of single-variable calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications.
Psychology, B.A.
As a member of the social sciences, psychology seeks to understand the causes and consequences of human and animal behavior by employing the methods of scientific inquiry. Given this general orientation, the psychology program at North Central College provides students with a sound background in the methods used to understand behavior. Students receive an overview of several key areas within the discipline: Developmental, Biological, Cognitive/Learning, Personality/Abnormal, Social/Cultural Diversity and Applied. In addition, students explore at least one topic in depth through a capstone experience: senior seminar, senior thesis, internship or community engagement project.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Psychology and Neuroscience.
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PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the basic concepts, processes, theories and empirical findings concerning the behavior of organisms. Consideration is given to the following topics: physiological and developmental basis of behavior, sensory and perceptual processes, states of consciousness, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion, as well as personality, intellectual functioning, psychopathology, and social influences on behavior. Community engaged learning and/or an active research experience is used to further student understanding of course topics. Gateway course.
-
PSYC 250 - Statistics
PSYC 250 - Statistics
4.00 credit hours
The methods, concepts and logic underlying the statistical evaluation of research data with an emphasis on "why" as well as "when" to use various statistical methods. Content includes descriptive and inferential statistics, estimation and hypothesis testing. Analyses include z and t tests, one-way and factorial ANOVA, correlation, regression and Chi square. Assignments focus on problem solving, technical writing and use of computer statistical packages (SPSS). Only one of
-
PSYC 255 - Research Design and Experimentation
PSYC 255 - Research Design and Experimentation
4.00 credit hours
Students further their understanding of the scientific research process through lectures, activities and laboratory experiences. Students are introduced to various research designs, including naturalistic observation, case studies, correlational research and experimental research. Students use their knowledge of the research process to collect, analyze and critically think about original data. This course is writing intensive and requires working with a team to complete a significant research project. Laboratory required.
-
PSYC 293 - Careers in Psychology and Neuroscience
PSYC 293 - Careers in Psychology and Neuroscience
2.00 credit hours
An exploration of various career options in psychology, neuroscience, and related fields. By collaborating with other students, instructors, and resource people both inside and outside of the North Central community, students learn about a wide range of careers possible with a major in psychology or neuroscience, as well as how to successfully prepare for one's chosen future career.
Perspectives
One course from each of the following:
Developmental
-
PSYC 210 - Child Development
PSYC 210 - Child Development
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research from the field of child development are studied in order to better understand the child's physical, language, cognitive, social, and emotional development from birth to adolescence.
-
PSYC 220 - Psychology of Adolescence
PSYC 220 - Psychology of Adolescence
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research in the area of adolescent psychology are examined to better understand the major developmental tasks of adolescence, such as forming an identity and developing mature relations with peers, family and possible mates.
-
PSYC 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
PSYC 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research about the developmental tasks of adulthood, beginning with the transition from adolescence to young adulthood and ending with the issues faced by the oldest members of our society. Topics include identity, adult relationships, sexuality, careers and retirement, health and wellness, the biological process underlying aging, and the pursuit of "successful aging."
-
PSYC 235 - Lifespan Development
PSYC 235 - Lifespan Development
4.00 credit hours
An exploration of development across the lifespan from conception to death. Both normal and abnormal patterns of development in various cultures and contexts are examined.
Biological
-
NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience
NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the manner in which genetic, environmental, biochemical, and physiological factors contribute to the neurological basis of behavior. Special attention is given to neural contributions of reproduction, psychopharmacology, fear, learning, stress, ingestion, communication, memory, and psychiatric disorders.
-
NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior
NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the dynamic relationship between how drugs act on the brain and behavior. Topics include the properties of drug action, differentiating drug use and drug dependence, physical versus psychological dependence, as well as the legal and social implications of drug use. A range of legal and illegal drugs such as stimulants, depressants, alcohol, opiates, hallucinogens, and pharmaceutical drugs are investigated.
Learning/Cognitive
-
PSYC 340 - Learning
PSYC 340 - Learning
4.00 credit hours
The scientific study of how animals and humans learn from a historical perspective. Course work emphasizes theory, evidence, methodology, and application of the research to education, clinical settings, parenting, and training animals. Classical and operant conditioning are the main focus with observational learning, memory research, and biological factors included. Laboratory required.
-
PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology
PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology
4.00 credit hours
Students further their understanding of the scientific study of mental processes, including sensation, perception, attention, memory, knowledge representation, speech and language, decision-making, and problem solving. Students also explore the brain physiology underlying these processes and the cognitive consequences of brain injury and disease. Course work emphasizes the history, theory, methodology, and application of research in the field. Laboratory required.
Personality/Abnormal
-
PSYC 320 - Personality
PSYC 320 - Personality
4.00 credit hours
A survey of major models of personality, including psychodynamic, biological and trait, behavioral, and humanistic-existential paradigms. Each paradigm is discussed by addressing its unique assumptions about human nature, methodological approaches, assessment techniques, and use of evidence. Special emphasis is placed on applications in clinical/counseling, educational, industrial/organization, and other relevant settings.
-
PSYC 324 - Abnormal Psychology
PSYC 324 - Abnormal Psychology
4.00 credit hours
The classification, etiology, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders in adolescents and adults, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders. Particular emphasis is placed on discussion of stigma and social issues in the field.
-
PSYC 325 - Child Psychopathology
PSYC 325 - Child Psychopathology
4.00 credit hours
Understanding the causes, diagnostic criteria, and treatment of psychological disorders in children and adolescents (including such diverse problems as childhood depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and autism). Particular emphasis is placed on treatment modalities that are specific to problems in childhood, such as parent training, play therapy, and family therapy.
Social/Cultural Diversity
-
PSYC 240 - Social Psychology
PSYC 240 - Social Psychology
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the theories and research regarding human social behavior. Topics include social perception, self-perception, attitudes, social influence, attraction, altruism, aggression, group effects, and environmental psychology.
-
PSYC 310 - Cultural Psychology
PSYC 310 - Cultural Psychology
4.00 credit hours
An examination of how definitions of culture shape knowledge about topics in psychology, such as human development, self-concept, and mental illness. The focus is on psychological and anthropological approaches to studying culture.
Applied
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PSYC 205 - Educational Psychology
PSYC 205 - Educational Psychology
4.00 credit hours
Psychological concepts, theories, and research findings regarding human behavior are applied to a variety of learning contexts. Collaborative activities around the application of course material are conducted.
-
PSYC 270 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology
PSYC 270 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology
4.00 credit hours
The scientific study of human work in which theory and research are integrated to understand issues facing individuals, teams, and organizations. The focus is on the organizational and social context of human work, including work and identity issues, personnel selection and placement, motivation, job satisfaction, happiness, stress and health, organizational justice, and other relevant workplace topics.
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PSYC 350 - Clinical Psychology
PSYC 350 - Clinical Psychology
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the various assessment techniques, treatment modalities, and ethical and controversial issues in the field of clinical psychology. Special emphasis is placed on role playing and experiential activities aimed at practicing basic counseling skills and developing self-awareness.
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PSYC 360 - Psychological Assessment
PSYC 360 - Psychological Assessment
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to key concepts, methods, and ethical considerations associated with psychological assessment. A key goal is for students to understand psychometric techniques so that they can read, understand, and interpret test results. Topics include an overview of true score, item response, and generalizability theories. Special emphasis is placed on the ethical and appropriate use of tests and the intersection between testing and contemporary society. Special topics include testing in the areas of intelligence, personality, attitudes, interests, and abilities.
-
PSYC 385 - Health Psychology
PSYC 385 - Health Psychology
4.00 credit hours
An examination of how biological, psychological, and social factors influence health and illness. Specific topics include behavior change, stress, patient-provider communication, substance abuse, weight control, and coping with chronic illness.
Capstone
Four credit hours from one of the following:
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PSYC 490 - Seminar
PSYC 490 - Seminar
4.00 credit hours
An in-depth study of a specific topic or issue in psychology. Topics depend upon faculty and student interest. Students are expected to read and discuss original sources and current literature in psychology. An APA-style paper is required. Repeatable with different content. Capstone.
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PSYC 495 - Psychology in the Community
PSYC 495 - Psychology in the Community
1.00-4.00 credit hours
A community engagement project that serves as a culminating experience in the psychology major. Students reflect on community engagement, service learning and social activism in an experiential context. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include identifying the community partner, arranging the community engagement experience, designing materials for the experience and analyzing the effectiveness of the experience. A final paper (traditional APA-style research report or audience-specific research report) incorporating primary literature, appropriate quantitative or qualitative analysis of the effectiveness of the experience and reflection is required. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation. Capstone.
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PSYC 497 - Internship
PSYC 497 - Internship
0.00-12.00 credit hours
Internships supplement classroom instruction by providing valuable professional experiences and allowing students to apply psychological theories and concepts to broader social issues and systems. This internship experience is designed to assist students in exploring career options and to link this experience to important issues and trends in the psychology literature. Students complete required hours in the field, critically reflect on this experience, and write a substantial APA-style literature review/hypothesis paper directly related to this experience. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation with the option of spreading credits over two semesters. Capstone.
-
PSYC 498 - Senior Thesis
PSYC 498 - Senior Thesis
1.00-4.00 credit hours
Students work in collaboration with faculty to produce a culminating research experience. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include critical reading of peer-reviewed articles; formulation of a research question and hypothesis; design of the study; IRB application; creation of materials; recruitment of participants; and data collection, coding, entry, statistical analysis and evaluation. Students write an APA-style journal paper and present at a student or professional conference. Students earning credit for a capstone experience must complete a minimum of four credit hours, with the option of spreading credits over two semesters. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation.
Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the
Psychology Minor
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Psychology and Neuroscience.
-
PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the basic concepts, processes, theories and empirical findings concerning the behavior of organisms. Consideration is given to the following topics: physiological and developmental basis of behavior, sensory and perceptual processes, states of consciousness, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion, as well as personality, intellectual functioning, psychopathology, and social influences on behavior. Community engaged learning and/or an active research experience is used to further student understanding of course topics. Gateway course.
-
PSYC 250 - Statistics
PSYC 250 - Statistics
4.00 credit hours
The methods, concepts and logic underlying the statistical evaluation of research data with an emphasis on "why" as well as "when" to use various statistical methods. Content includes descriptive and inferential statistics, estimation and hypothesis testing. Analyses include z and t tests, one-way and factorial ANOVA, correlation, regression and Chi square. Assignments focus on problem solving, technical writing and use of computer statistical packages (SPSS). Only one of
Perspectives
Two courses from two different perspective categories:
Developmental
-
PSYC 210 - Child Development
PSYC 210 - Child Development
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research from the field of child development are studied in order to better understand the child's physical, language, cognitive, social, and emotional development from birth to adolescence.
-
PSYC 220 - Psychology of Adolescence
PSYC 220 - Psychology of Adolescence
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research in the area of adolescent psychology are examined to better understand the major developmental tasks of adolescence, such as forming an identity and developing mature relations with peers, family and possible mates.
-
PSYC 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
PSYC 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
4.00 credit hours
Theory and research about the developmental tasks of adulthood, beginning with the transition from adolescence to young adulthood and ending with the issues faced by the oldest members of our society. Topics include identity, adult relationships, sexuality, careers and retirement, health and wellness, the biological process underlying aging, and the pursuit of "successful aging."
-
PSYC 235 - Lifespan Development
PSYC 235 - Lifespan Development
4.00 credit hours
An exploration of development across the lifespan from conception to death. Both normal and abnormal patterns of development in various cultures and contexts are examined.
Biological
-
NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience
NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the manner in which genetic, environmental, biochemical, and physiological factors contribute to the neurological basis of behavior. Special attention is given to neural contributions of reproduction, psychopharmacology, fear, learning, stress, ingestion, communication, memory, and psychiatric disorders.
-
NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior
NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the dynamic relationship between how drugs act on the brain and behavior. Topics include the properties of drug action, differentiating drug use and drug dependence, physical versus psychological dependence, as well as the legal and social implications of drug use. A range of legal and illegal drugs such as stimulants, depressants, alcohol, opiates, hallucinogens, and pharmaceutical drugs are investigated.
Learning/Cognitive
-
PSYC 340 - Learning
PSYC 340 - Learning
4.00 credit hours
The scientific study of how animals and humans learn from a historical perspective. Course work emphasizes theory, evidence, methodology, and application of the research to education, clinical settings, parenting, and training animals. Classical and operant conditioning are the main focus with observational learning, memory research, and biological factors included. Laboratory required.
-
PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology
PSYC 345 - Cognitive Psychology
4.00 credit hours
Students further their understanding of the scientific study of mental processes, including sensation, perception, attention, memory, knowledge representation, speech and language, decision-making, and problem solving. Students also explore the brain physiology underlying these processes and the cognitive consequences of brain injury and disease. Course work emphasizes the history, theory, methodology, and application of research in the field. Laboratory required.
Personality/Abnormal
-
PSYC 320 - Personality
PSYC 320 - Personality
4.00 credit hours
A survey of major models of personality, including psychodynamic, biological and trait, behavioral, and humanistic-existential paradigms. Each paradigm is discussed by addressing its unique assumptions about human nature, methodological approaches, assessment techniques, and use of evidence. Special emphasis is placed on applications in clinical/counseling, educational, industrial/organization, and other relevant settings.
-
PSYC 324 - Abnormal Psychology
PSYC 324 - Abnormal Psychology
4.00 credit hours
The classification, etiology, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders in adolescents and adults, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders. Particular emphasis is placed on discussion of stigma and social issues in the field.
-
PSYC 325 - Child Psychopathology
PSYC 325 - Child Psychopathology
4.00 credit hours
Understanding the causes, diagnostic criteria, and treatment of psychological disorders in children and adolescents (including such diverse problems as childhood depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and autism). Particular emphasis is placed on treatment modalities that are specific to problems in childhood, such as parent training, play therapy, and family therapy.
Exploration
A minimum of eight additional credit hours of Psychology at the 300- or 400-level.
Industrial/Organizational Psychology Minor
This interdisciplinary minor is designed to help students prepare for careers in Human Resources, management and other business-related areas.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Psychology and Neuroscience.
Core Courses
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PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
PSYC 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior
4.00 credit hours
An examination of the basic concepts, processes, theories and empirical findings concerning the behavior of organisms. Consideration is given to the following topics: physiological and developmental basis of behavior, sensory and perceptual processes, states of consciousness, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion, as well as personality, intellectual functioning, psychopathology, and social influences on behavior. Community engaged learning and/or an active research experience is used to further student understanding of course topics. Gateway course.
-
PSYC 250 - Statistics
PSYC 250 - Statistics
4.00 credit hours
The methods, concepts and logic underlying the statistical evaluation of research data with an emphasis on "why" as well as "when" to use various statistical methods. Content includes descriptive and inferential statistics, estimation and hypothesis testing. Analyses include z and t tests, one-way and factorial ANOVA, correlation, regression and Chi square. Assignments focus on problem solving, technical writing and use of computer statistical packages (SPSS). Only one of
-
PSYC 270 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology
PSYC 270 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology
4.00 credit hours
The scientific study of human work in which theory and research are integrated to understand issues facing individuals, teams, and organizations. The focus is on the organizational and social context of human work, including work and identity issues, personnel selection and placement, motivation, job satisfaction, happiness, stress and health, organizational justice, and other relevant workplace topics.
One of the following:
-
PSYC 320 - Personality
PSYC 320 - Personality
4.00 credit hours
A survey of major models of personality, including psychodynamic, biological and trait, behavioral, and humanistic-existential paradigms. Each paradigm is discussed by addressing its unique assumptions about human nature, methodological approaches, assessment techniques, and use of evidence. Special emphasis is placed on applications in clinical/counseling, educational, industrial/organization, and other relevant settings.
-
PSYC 360 - Psychological Assessment
PSYC 360 - Psychological Assessment
4.00 credit hours
An introduction to key concepts, methods, and ethical considerations associated with psychological assessment. A key goal is for students to understand psychometric techniques so that they can read, understand, and interpret test results. Topics include an overview of true score, item response, and generalizability theories. Special emphasis is placed on the ethical and appropriate use of tests and the intersection between testing and contemporary society. Special topics include testing in the areas of intelligence, personality, attitudes, interests, and abilities.
Electives
One course from two of the three following categories:
Communication
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COMM 214 - Group Interaction
COMM 214 - Group Interaction
4.00 credit hours
Students are introduced to the theory and practice of small group communication and decision-making. The course features an extensive group project, where students develop their abilities to participate, observe, analyze, evaluate and intervene in small group communication.
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COMM 280 - Business and Professional Communication
COMM 280 - Business and Professional Communication
4.00 credit hours
An intermediate course in which students develop the skills and strategies for use in written, face-to-face and electronic communication in professional settings. Students learn fundamentals of writing and presenting in professional contexts and may investigate organizational communication practices such as interviewing, performance feedback, training and meeting management.
Business
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SBEN 100 - Globalization and Society
SBEN 100 - Globalization and Society
4.00 credit hours
An introductory course identifying the role of the business institution in our society, how business behavior is shaped and influenced by its stakeholders-managers, consumers, employees, government and community members. Key topics include: business systems, corporate governance, the business and society relationship, business and public issues, ethical dilemmas in business, corporate social responsibilities in relation to stakeholders, globalization, ecological and sustainability issues and the influence of technology on business and society.
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ECON 200 - Principles of Microeconomics
ECON 200 - Principles of Microeconomics
4.00 credit hours
Introduction to the theory of consumer choice, social and individual welfare, the behavior of business firms and market structure, and other applied microeconomic topics.
Leadership, Ethics and Values
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LEAD 220 - Leadership for Change-Making
LEAD 220 - Leadership for Change-Making
4.00 credit hours
Students will explore the theories of leadership from relational and ethical perspectives. Students will engage specifically with the ideas of self and others, self in communities and organizations, and self in relation to growth and change. Attention will be paid to leadership directed at social change in a variety of real world contexts.
-
LEAD 230 - Conflict Resolution
LEAD 230 - Conflict Resolution
4.00 credit hours
An inquiry into the theories and skills relating to the resolution of conflict in the community and the workplace. A variety of approaches will be used to understand and analyze issues and develop skills including lecture/discussion, negotiation exercises and simulated mediations. The course will focus on developing the ability to practice as a mediator.
Psychology Internships and Career Options
A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge and skills in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead. Our undergraduate programs have groomed psychologists, social workers, therapists and more to pursue their passions and excel in their field of psychology.
Internships
Recent psychology graduates have interned at:
- Youth services, Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, Chicago
- Child and family programming, DuPage Children’s Museum, Naperville
- School operations, school district 45, Villa Park, Ill.
- Occupational therapy, Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley Region, IL
- Human resources, WeatherTech, Bolingbrook, Ill.
- Juvenile investigations, DuPage County Dept. of Probation & Court Services, Wheaton, Ill.
- Mental health services, DuPage County, Wheaton, Ill.
- Adult bereavement, Fox Valley Hospice, Geneva, Ill.
- Respite services, Metropolitan Family Services, Wheaton, Ill.
Graduate Schools
Recent psychology graduates have been accepted at:
- Northwestern University
- Emory University
- University of New Hampshire
- Northern Illinois University
- Rosalind Franklin University
- University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Loyola University, Chicago
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Central Florida University
- Claremont University
- University of Illinois at Chicago • Depaul University
Careers
Recent psychology graduates have been accepted at:
- Counselor
- Social worker
- School psychologist
- Clinical psychologist
- Family therapist
- Human resources specialist
- Recruiter
- Community recreational programmer
Recent psychology graduates have entered the fields of:
- Counseling
- Social Work
- School Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Family Therapy
- Human Resources
- Recruiting
- Community Recreational Programming
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