Course Descriptions

PSYC 8000 Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. It provides a foundation for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and promote professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in psychology and counseling.

PSYC 8002 Foundations for Graduate Study in Clinical Psychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to Walden University and to the profession of clinical psychology. It provides a foundation for success in online education and for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. The beginning of the course provides an overview of the mission and vision of Walden, the student’s program of study, and tools for success in the online program. The remainder of the course provides a systematic introduction to clinical psychology as a profession. Topics include varieties of counseling practice, professional competencies, ethical and multicultural competencies, emerging issues, and organizations within the profession and clinical psychology. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills, self-reflection, and promotion of professional and academic excellence.

PSYC 8003 Foundations for Graduate Study in Counseling Psychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to Walden University and to the profession of counseling psychology. It provides a foundation for success in online education and for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. The beginning of the course provides an overview of the mission and vision of Walden, the student’s program of study, and tools for success in the online program. The remainder of the course provides a systematic introduction to counseling psychology as a profession. Topics include varieties of counseling practice, professional competencies, ethical and multicultural competencies, emerging issues, and organizations within the profession and counseling psychology. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills, self-reflection, and promotion of professional and academic excellence.

PSYC 8005 Business Concepts for the Organizational Development Professional (5 cr.)
This course explores the language of work, business, and management structures and processes, and the human and market factors that determine organizational success. It examines topics such as finance, marketing, accounting, strategic planning, organizational design, and quality and process improvement. Applications include the examination and analysis of information sources that assess overall organizational health.

PSYC 8101 Introduction to Forensic Psychology (5 cr.)
This course provides students with an overview of the areas covered by a broad definition of forensic psychology. In doing so, this course introduces the basic tenets of forensic psychology and the criminal justice system. Topics of study include criminal profiling, police psychology, psychology in the criminal courts, correctional psychology, and others. Assignments focus on providing the student with a broad basic knowledge of the forensic psychology field.

PSYC 8113 Ethical Issues and Professional Responsibilities in Forensic Psychology (5 cr.)
This course provides students with the contemporary knowledge needed to apply ethical practice and professional responsibilities while working as a forensic psychologist. The American Psychological Association’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct as well as the American Psychology-Law Society’s Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychology are mainstays in this course. Additionally, the various roles and responsibilities of a forensic psychologist are covered.

PSYC 8115 Writing a Quality Prospectus (5 cr.)
This five-credit course is focused specifically on the process of writing the doctoral study prospectus. Students will use their preliminary research plan, developed previously, and develop a problem statement, to be used in the doctoral study. They further refine the problem statement and carry out the planning and the library research that will bring them to the formulation of a doctoral study prospectus. The prospectus is a brief paper, typically 15/20 pages in length, that lays out the background for the problem statement, the problem statement itself, a survey of the relevant literature (typically 25/75 references), and a research, implementation and evaluation plan for the solution of the problem.

PSYC 8116 Understanding Forensic Psychology Research (5 cr.)
This course aims to help the student better understand how to be an astute consumer of forensic psychology research. Basic principles of statistics, such as reliability and validity, are covered. At the same time, this course places emphasis on teaching the student how to critically read forensic psychology research and how best to apply research results to forensic clinical settings.

PSYC 8117 Writing a Quality Prospectus in Psychology (5 cr.)
This five-credit course is focused specifically on the process of writing the dissertation prospectus. Students will use their preliminary research plan, developed previously, and develop a problem statement to be used in the dissertation. They will further refine the problem statement and carry out the planning and the library research that will bring them to the formulation of a dissertation prospectus. The prospectus is a brief paper, typically 15–20 pages in length, that lays out the background for the problem statement, the problem statement itself, a survey of the relevant literature, typically 25–75 references, and a research, implementation, and evaluation plan for the solution of the problem.

PSYC 8125 Assessment in Forensic Psychology Settings (5 cr.)
This course covers the varied assessment techniques and instruments used in the forensic psychology arena. Some of the assessment areas covered include risk assessment, juvenile evaluations, lie detection, custody evaluations, and many of the psychological tests and instruments that are used in these assessments. The course will provide a solid foundation of the knowledge of forensic psychology techniques and assessment rather than specific skills in administering and interpreting psychological tests.

PSYC 8131 Theories of Learning (5 cr.)
The course will provide an in-depth study of modern learning theory, its historical context, theoretical ideas, research, and applications in various learning environments. The theoretical ideas of the major paradigms of learning, such as behaviorism, gestalt, cognitivism, information-processing, constructivism, and humanism, will be covered. The course will also include of a review of current theories of cognitive processes, such as language, memory, and intelligence, and how differences in cognitive level throughout the lifespan mediate learning of educational subject matters.

PSYC 8135 Criminal Behavior (5 cr.)
This course provides students with contemporary views and theories of maladaptive and criminal behavior. A broad conceptualization of criminal behavior, such as that which comes from the sociological and anthropological perspectives, is discussed. Theories and application of criminal profiling will be discussed. Additionally, more specific views of criminal behavior germane to groups such as psychopaths, serial offenders, and sexually violent predators will be addressed.

PSYC 8201 Social Cognition (5 cr.)
This course will orient the student to key elements in social cognitive processing as a subspecialty of social psychology, including: attribution theory, schema theory, social cognition relative to self, the role of attention/consciousness in social cognition, errors and biases in social thought, heuristics, person memory, affect and cognition, attitudes, social influence, and behavior relative to social cognition.

PSYC 8202 Survey Research Methods (5 cr.)
The course will provide an in-depth study of a range of survey methods administered via in-person interview, self-report, phone interview, and Internet administration. Topics will include survey design, administration, analysis, and addressing sources of bias. The course will also review theoretical and empirical research on question and questionnaire effects. The course prepares students in the practice of writing questions and designing questionnaires, both in general and in light of existing research.

PSYC 8203 Attitudes/Attitude Change (5 cr.)
This course will cover classic and contemporary models of attitudes, their functions, and how they are formed and maintained. The connection between attitudes and behavior and how attitudes are changed through the process of persuasion and cognitive dissonance will also be examined.

PSYC 8204 Intergroup Relations (5 cr.)
This course will provide an in-depth study of basic and applied research and theory on both group processes and group relations and could include some of the following topics: prejudice, discrimination, stereotyping, social categorization, minority and majority influence, group decision making, leadership, group structure, group socialization, bargaining and negotiation, intergroup conflict and cooperation, collective action and cognition, collective self and identity, social identity, language and identity, ethnic and cultural relations, and social dilemmas.

PSYC 8207 History and Systems of Psychology (5 cr.)
This course focuses on the historical and philosophical roots of psychology and counseling. Topics include structuralism, functionalism, behaviorism, psychoanalysis, gestalt, and existentialism, as well as contemporary perspectives including evolutionary psychology, positive psychology, postmodernism, and feminist psychology. Themes of diversity and multiculturalism in psychology and counseling are highlighted within each of the perspectives.

PSYC 8208 Career Assessment and Intervention (5 cr.)
This course provides students with practical skills in career and vocational assessment. Students will administer, score, and interpret printed and computer-based assessments of career interests, beliefs, and values. Major sources of career and work information available on the Internet and through printed materials and computer-based guidance systems will be examined. Emphasis is placed on helping students gain functional knowledge of how career assessment can assist in the exploration and understanding of the interrelationship among work, family, and life roles. Students will learn how to integrate career development theory and assessment results with career counseling interventions. Current issues in career counseling and assessment will be discussed, with particular attention paid to computer-based applications and multicultural implications.

PSYC 8211 Contemporary Issues in Psychology (5 cr.)
This course is an advanced level overview of the core areas, topics, and concepts in psychology, through a consideration of related contemporary issues. Major topics include biological bases of behavior, learning and memory, cognition, motivation, lifespan development, theories of personality, stress and coping, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Students learn and practice critical-reading and analysis skills through reviews of journal articles and media publications, focusing specifically on distinguishing facts and opinions, identifying bias in writing, and understanding the importance of data and evidence. Students use this knowledge in the analysis and composition of scientific writing. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course.

PSYC 8212 Principles of Organizational Psychology and Development (5 cr.)
This course provides the theoretical foundation for organizational inquiry leading to a deeper understanding of how organizations function. Topics include change management; organizational culture, behavior, and development; group dynamics; and systems-level thinking. Applications include the identification of organizational development opportunities based on an analysis of an organization. 

PSYC 8213 Strategic Talent Management and Development (5 cr.)
This course explores how to leverage people in organizations to achieve business success and how to leverage business strategy to foster individual growth. Topics include talent acquisition and retention, workforce and succession planning, organizational communication, leadership, and performance management. Applications include the preparation of a strategic talent management and development audit and the development of an overall talent management and development strategy.

PSYC 8214 Consulting for Organizational Change (5 cr.)
This course explores methods for accelerating individual, group, and organizational performance through consulting, coaching, and change management. The course addresses topics such as organizational assessment; team development; strategic planning; group dynamics; power, politics, and influence; leadership; and conflict management. Applications include the assessment of an organization and the development of strategies to address identified needs for change.

PSYC 8215 Lifespan Development (5 cr.)
This course provides students with an advanced overview of development through the lifespan, including prenatal, childhood, adolescent, adult, and late adult phases. Basic developmental processes and theories are examined and applied to developmental milestones that occur within these phases of development. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course. Additional topics include ethics, research, global perspectives, and social change.

PSYC 8216 Dynamics of Contemporary, International, and Virtual Organizations (5 cr.)
This course explores the implications of the changing nature of organizations including the emergence of international and virtual organizations in a global economy. It addresses the unique opportunities and challenges for organizations including for-profit, non-profit, government, international, and virtual organizations. Applications include the utilization of knowledge and skills acquired during the program in a specific type of organization.

PSYC 8221 Psychology of Personality (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to the major theories of personality and personality assessment approaches. Research that supports various theories is presented. Basic concepts and principles of the various schools of thought are discussed. Major topics include psychoanalytic, biological, behaviorist, learning, social-cognitive, trait and skill, humanistic, and existential aspects of personality, as well as individual, cultural, and gender differences in personality. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course.

PSYC 8224 Psychology of Work (5 cr.)
This course examines work and career development from a theoretical perspective. Major theories of vocational psychology are explored and integrated as students examine the critical role of work and vocation from a developmental perspective, spanning from childhood through late adulthood, and from a multicultural and global perspective. The meaning of work for individuals, groups, families, and societies is explored. Work will be also be explored in its interrelationship with family and other lifestyle roles and factors.

PSYC 8226 Biopsychology (5 cr.)
This course reviews the structure and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems and explores the impact of neurobiology, endocrinology, and physiology on human behavior. Major topics include brain functioning, including exploration of neural conduction, effects of neurotransmitters, sensory systems, and mechanisms of attention, memory, perception, and language. Issues related to neuroplasticity, lateralization, and regeneration are addressed.

PSYC 8229 Psychopathology (5 cr.)
This course provides an in-depth examination of current theory and research associated with major psychological disorders and their diagnosis. The primary classification systems are explored in terms of their applicability and limitations. The factors that impact the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders along a continuum of mental health are explored.  Application of the diagnostic criteria in terms of case conceptualization is emphasized.

PSYC 8232 Consultation and Supervision in Psychology (5 cr.)
This course examines the history, theory, process, and methods in the fields of psychological consultation and clinical supervision. Students will gain theoretical and empirical knowledge as well as the relevant practical skills needed to function as consultants and supervisors. Ethical and legal issues in providing consultation and supervision will be addressed.

PSYC 8237 Cognitive Psychology (5 cr.)
This course, illuminated by cognitive neuroscience, examines various domains of cognitive psychology including how information is acquired (i.e., basic learning processes, perception, and attention); fundamental issues of memory and representations of knowledge; language and understanding; thinking (e.g., reasoning, problem-solving, expertise and creativity, and judgment and decision-making); and emotions. The course begins with an overview of the history of the field and approaches used to study the mind; it continues with an examination of the fundamentals of cognition. Additionally, it explores individual and cultural differences across domains.

PSYC 8238 Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior (5 cr.)
This course reviews core theories of cognition and affect and their roles in human functioning. The course will review basic components of cognition, including knowledge acquisition, knowledge representation, language and various aspects of thinking, and emotions. There is also a focus on the multi-dimensional and interactive characteristics of human cognitive and affective functioning. A specific emphasis is placed on theories and research bearing on how cognition and affect interact in important areas of human functioning such as emotional regulation, construction of reality, motivation, psychopathology, and health.

PSYC 8241 Human Motivation (5 cr.)
This course provides an overview of physiological, psychological, and social aspects in the study of motivation and includes an exploration of historical and contemporary theories and perspectives. The course emphasizes both conceptual understanding of theories associated with motivation and their applications to personal, professional, and social issues. Major topics include physiological, learned, cognitive, and emotional aspects of motivation. Themes of diversity are threaded throughout the course.

PSYC 8242 Changing Health Behavior: Theory and Practice (5 cr.)
This course will review past and current models of health behavior change, disease prevention, disease management, and relapse prevention. It will provide coverage of health-related issues, including dietary needs, tobacco and drug use, safer sexual practices, and stress management. In addition, it will examine the analysis of behavior change within specific populations (young, elderly, cognitively impaired, etc.) and factors that predict or serve as obstacles to lifestyle change and adherence. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8745 Health Psychology)

PSYC 8247 Social Psychology (5 cr.)
This course examines both human cognitions and behavior through the lens of research and theory in social psychology. Topics include perception, attitudes, relationships and attraction, altruism, prejudice and aggression, conformity and obedience, group behavior, and the influence of culture. The implications of social psychology theory and research are explored in relation to social justice and social change.

PSYC 8281 Counseling Practicum I (3 cr.)
This course is the first of the four-course, yearlong practicum sequence. This course enables students to engage in a supervised experience that integrates theory and research with practice. Working in collaboration with their site supervisor and course instructor, the students’ practicum experience includes guided development of intermediate conceptual, assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills; awareness of professional and ethical issues; professional and interpersonal growth; development of cultural competence; and effective use of supervision.

PSYC 8283 Counseling Practicum II (3 cr.)
This course is the second of the four-course, yearlong practicum sequence. Students continue their practicum, applying the principles and methods of empirically supported treatments and approaches learned from their coursework. Students bring closure to their work on real-world problems that they developed with their preceptors. Students evaluate and complete their practicum project and present their project in the workplace and in the online classroom.

PSYC 8284 Counseling Practicum III (3 cr.)
This course is the third of the four-course, yearlong practicum sequence. Students continue their practicum, applying the principles and methods of empirically supported treatments and approaches learned from their coursework. Students bring closure to their work on real-world problems that they developed with their preceptors. Students evaluate and complete their practicum project and present their project in the workplace and in the online classroom.

PSYC 8285 Counseling Practicum IV (3 cr.)
This course is the last of the four-course, yearlong practicum sequence. Students continue their practicum, applying the principles and methods of empirically supported treatments and approaches learned from their coursework. Students bring closure to their work on real-world problems that they developed with their preceptors. Students evaluate and complete their practicum project and present their project in the workplace and in the online classroom.

PSYC 8286 Counseling Psychology Internship I (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare counseling psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas.

PSYC 8287 Counseling Psychology Internship II (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare counseling psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas.

PSYC 8288 Counseling Psychology Internship III (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare counseling psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas.

PSYC 8289 Counseling Psychology Internship IV (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare counseling psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas.

PSYC 8290 Clinical Practicum I (3 cr.)
This course is the first of the two-course practicum sequence. This course enables students to engage in a supervised experience that integrates theory and research with practice. Working in collaboration with their site supervisor and course instructor, the students’ practicum experience includes guided development of intermediate conceptual, assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills; awareness of professional and ethical issues; professional and interpersonal growth; development of cultural competence; and effective use of supervision.

PSYC 8291 Clinical Practicum II (3 cr.)
This course is the second of the two-course practicum sequence. This course enables students to engage in a supervised experience that integrates theory and research with practice. Working in collaboration with their site supervisor and course instructor, the students’ practicum experience includes guided development of intermediate conceptual, assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills; awareness of professional and ethical issues; professional and interpersonal growth; development of cultural competence; and effective use of supervision.

PSYC 8292 Clinical Psychology Internship I (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare clinical psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas. A minimum of 2,000 clock hours with at least 900 clock hours of direct client contact must be documented.

PSYC 8293 Clinical Psychology Internship II (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare clinical psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas. A minimum of 2,000 clock hours with at least 900 clock hours of direct client contact must be documented.

PSYC 8294 Clinical Psychology Internship III (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare clinical psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas. A minimum of 2,000 clock hours with at least 900 clock hours of direct client contact must be documented.

PSYC 8295 Clinical Psychology Internship IV (3 cr.)
The internship course is taken in conjunction with a supervised clinical experience and is intended to prepare clinical psychology students for readiness to enter practice. This course follows completion of the practicum sequence and is designed to develop intermediate intervention and assessment skills, integrate professional knowledge and skills with evidence-based practices, and continue focused development in specialization areas. A minimum of 2,000 clock hours with at least 900 clock hours of direct client contact must be documented.

PSYC 8300 Philosophical Foundations in Psychological Research (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to the nature of scientific discovery and explanation as it applies to the social sciences and to psychology in particular. Topics include the etiology and epistemology of science, the relationship between philosophy and science, the nature of scientific explanation, and the understandings of the progress of science (the paradigm). Philosophical movements that influence research and research priorities are reviewed, including positivism, constructivism, and other post-modern research paradigms, including feminist, race, and gay/lesbian psychologies.

PSYC 8315 Program Evaluation (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to evaluation research. Topics include the history and theory underlying program evaluation; approaches to evaluation, procedures, and techniques for entering a group for which one would provide evaluation services; selecting appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative models and techniques used to perform the evaluation; strategies for getting gatekeepers to be invested in the development of the research and in the outcomes; demonstration of program effectives; and dissemination of results to stakeholders.

PSYC 8316 Tests and Measurement (5 cr.)
This course provides a foundation of test construction, test theory, and principles of psychometric measurement. Topics include normative sampling and standardization, reliability and validity, statistical interpretation of test scores, and test development. The course also addresses ethical, legal, and sociocultural issues, including cultural bias and fairness, in the development of psychometric instruments.

PSYC 8320 Advanced Methods in Mixed Qualitative-Quantitative Research Designs (5 cr.)
This course focuses on the use of both qualitative and quantitative research designs in psychological research. The course begins with a broad discussion of paradigms that guide qualitative and quantitative research traditions, including logical positivism, post-positivism, pragmatism, and constructivism. A number of methods common to each tradition are reviewed, and mixed-method approaches are explored in depth, including strategies for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data, as well as how both methods can be incorporated at all stages of the research project. Emphasis is on how to design a mixed-method research project that could serve as the foundation for dissertation work.

PSYC 8340 Cognitive Assessment (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to historical and current theories of intellectual functioning. Students will critically analyze issues related to cognitive ability and achievement and develop competency in the administration, scoring, and interpretation of various standardized instruments designed to assess cognitive and intellectual functioning. Students will review and prepare written reports that summarize, interpret, and integrate assessment results with recommendations for prevention and intervention. There is an emphasis on ethical test use in a diverse society and linking assessment results to appropriate interventions and practice.

PSYC 8344 Interventions I (5 cr.)
The focus of this course is on the acquisition and demonstration of clinical and counseling skills in the context of empirically supported modes of intervention. Students apply skills in treatment-planning exercises, clinical vignettes, and face-to-face simulations of psychotherapy sessions.

PSYC 8345 Interventions II (5 cr.)
This course explores the application of empirically supported treatment and interventions to client problems ranging from problems in living to severe mental disorders in selected populations. Students demonstrate the implementation of intervention models, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, short-term dynamic psychotherapy, and integrative psychotherapy, in the online and face-to-face classrooms. Culturally competent interventions are emphasized within an ethical framework for clinical or counseling practice.

PSYC 8346 Clinical Psychopharmacology (5 cr.)
This course surveys basic neuropharmacology, the effects of various psychotropic drugs, and the actions of drugs used to treat mental disorders. The course covers basic principles of neuropharmacology, distribution and elimination of drugs, drug-receptor interactions and dose-response relationships, structure of neurons, neurophysiological mechanisms involved in synaptic activity, and the distribution of specific neurotransmitter systems. Students also learn the actions of specific drugs and their effects on behavior and their uses in biological psychiatry.

PSYC 8350 Personality Assessment (5 cr.)
The primary goals of this course are to: introduce students to basic skills related to the assessment of personality; examine historical and theoretical foundations of personality tests; and become familiar with how to administer, record, score, and interpret specific measures of personality. Students will learn to integrate cognitive and personality assessment data into a comprehensive report that includes a diagnosis, formulation, and recommendations for further action. The focus is on applied aspects of psychological testing. There is an emphasis on ethical test use in a diverse society and linking assessment results to appropriate interventions and practice.

PSYC 8356 Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (5 cr.)
This course provides a foundation in the theoretical perspectives and empirical framework necessary for marriage, couple, and family therapy. The theoretical perspective includes general systems theory and its applications, as well as psychosocial, psychodynamic, transgenerational, strategic, cognitive-behavioral, and social constructionist models. Students learn to conceptualize presenting issues within a systemic perspective and context. Empirically based techniques for assessment and intervention of marriages, couples, and families are reviewed and analyzed.

PSYC 8361 Advanced Psychological Testing (5 cr.)
This course focuses on the application of multidimensional approaches to assessment, empirically based diagnosis and decision-making, and empirically based interventions or treatment based on assessment. Students administer, score, record, and interpret psychological tests. They also learn to diagnose and make treatment recommendations using an array of assessment instruments appropriate to their specialization. Students apply these skill sets to write integrated, comprehensive psychological reports. This course has a required face-to-face residency component. (Prerequisites: PSYC 6341, 6351 with a grade of B or better and PSYC 8719, 8720, or 8721.)

PSYC 8421 Multicultural Psychology (5 cr.)
This course is designed to provide a foundation in the theory and skills necessary for multicultural counseling and the delivery of psychological services to diverse populations. Students explore cross- cultural issues and their impact on the therapeutic relationship. Specific populations include those related to race, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, social class, economic status, age, religion, and disability. The effects of oppression and its prevention are also discussed in terms of social justice.

PSYC 8511 Treatment of Forensic Populations (5 cr.)
This course provides students with the basic knowledge necessary to evaluate and subsequently treat many different forensic populations. Various forensic populations such as sex offenders, substance abusers, victims of crime, and employee assistance to law enforcement personnel will be covered. The use of traditional forms of intervention, such as individual and group psychotherapy, as well as recent developments in intervention, such as restorative justice, will be addressed.

PSYC 8521 Police Psychology (5 cr.)
The focus of this course is directed at the various roles a psychologist might have when working within a police department. Issues such as officer selection and training, stress management, critical incident stress debriefing, and upper-management consultation are mainstays of the police psychologist and will be covered. Additionally, less-well-known roles such as training in hostage negotiations and the selection of special operations officers (S.W.A.T., snipers, tactical commanders) will be reviewed.

PSYC 8522 Psychology in the Courts (5cr.)
This course covers the major roles that a forensic psychologist could have within the court system. Issues such as expert testimony, jury selection, eyewitness testimony, and consultation with attorneys will be covered. Additionally, practical skills such as documentation and report writing will be addressed.

PSYC 8551 I/O Testing and Measurement (5 cr.)
This course provides students with an in-depth study of measurement theory and the tests used in organizational settings. It includes a comprehensive examination of psychometric properties used to develop and evaluate these instruments, including classical test theory, item response theory (IRT), and item forensics approaches to testing. Topics include normative sampling and standardization, reliability and validity, test score interpretation, and test development. The course also addresses ethical, legal, and sociocultural issues, including cultural bias and fairness. Professional standards for testing provide a foundation for the course.

PSYC 8552 Psychology of Motivation at Work (5 cr.)
The course will provide an in-depth study of major topics in micro-level organizational behavior. Accountability, organization citizenship behaviors, forms of organizational attachment, motivation, goal theory, and issues of equity and justice will be covered.

PSYC 8573 Child and Adolescent Health Issues (5 cr.)
This course covers diseases and disorders in children and adolescents. Topics include diabetes, anorexia, headaches, epilepsy, burn injuries, cystic fibrosis, asthma, addiction, and adolescent obesity. Health promotion for children and adolescents is discussed, including: cardiovascular health, nutrition, and exercise. Also, covered are insights into special issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, daily stress, sexually transmitted diseases, sleep disorders, and ethical and legal issues in pediatric and adolescent health psychology. (Prerequisite; PSYC 8745 Health Psychology)

PSYC 8574 Women’s Health (5 cr.)
This course examines healthcare issues in women and girls. Topics include: healthy development, trauma, coping, self-esteem, resilience, self-care, well-being, sexual health, relationships, roles, family, schooling, careers, motherhood, transitions, violence, security, bereavement, and positive aging. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8745 Health Psychology)

PSYC 8576 Advanced Personnel Psychology (5 cr.)
This course provides an in-depth study of advanced topics in personnel psychology, including competency modeling, succession planning, talent management, alternative approaches to validation of selection tests, adverse impact, return on investment, and application of multiple linear regression analysis.

PSYC 8579 Job Attitudes, Measurement and Change (5 cr.)
The course will provide an in-depth study of major theories of job attitudes, as well as their antecedents, correlates, and consequences. Topics will include job satisfaction, organizational commitment, organizational citizenship behavior, withdrawal behavior, and counterproductive organizational behavior. Application of learning will be demonstrated through an applied-attitude survey research project.

PSYC 8660 Leadership, Advocacy, and Social Change (5 cr.)
This course is designed to enhance students’ understanding of the responsibility of counselor educators to foster social change, provide leadership, service the counseling professional, and advocate for their community, clients, students, and profession. Students will use current research to examine the trends and issues of the profession and identify how community, national, and international issues affect the counseling profession. Students will also understand the processes of advocacy and social change. Students will continue to enhance their professional development plans by identifying specific goals for professional involvement and service.

PSYC 8700 Psychology and Social Change (5 cr.)
This course focuses on the theories of social and personal change. Topics include power and social inequalities, ethnic inequalities, global environment and social change, issues related to gender and sexism, and homophobia. In addition, students are presented with the impact of social change theories on children, families, and societies. The concepts of change agent and change advocate are explored, as well as the role of the psychologist as change agent.

PSYC 8701 Culture and Psychology (5 cr.)
This course explores the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, this course focuses on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed in the course are related to human development. Additionally, interactions between culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.

PSYC 8703 Ethics and Standards of Psychology (5 cr.)
This course examines the origins of professional codes of ethics and standards of scientific psychology. Topics include ethical issues in academics (research, teaching, supervision), various work settings (assessment, consulting), and ethics involved in working with diverse populations. Additionally, students are introduced to forensic psychology and ethical issues related to the legal system. The course also explores how cultural factors are addressed in various ethical codes and the implications for scholar-practitioners.

PSYC 8704 Ethics and Standards of Psychological Practice (5 cr.)
This course examines the psychologist’s principles of conduct, code of ethics, and standards of practice. The guidelines for practice in specific psychological services and with identified populations are explored. The ethical decision-making process is studied in depth. Topics include informed consent, confidentiality, duty to warn, mandated reporting, record keeping, the limits of competency, and dual relationships. The course also addresses issues of professional development such as supervision, peer consultation, and continuing education.

PSYC 8705 Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice (5 cr.)
This course examines the origins of professional codes of ethics and standards of practice. Ethics and standards of practice are explored in depth. Topics include confidentiality, client-provider relationships, issues in assessment, ethical issues related to psychotherapy, ethics of research, and ethics involved in working with diverse populations. Additionally, students are introduced to forensic psychology and issues related to establishing a practice. The course also explores how cultural factors are addressed in various ethical codes and the implications for scholar-practitioners.

PSYC 8706 Advanced Social Psychology (5 cr.)
This course provides an advanced analysis of social psychology, including a review of the historical context and cultural grounding of social psychological theory. Special attention is given to sociocultural psychology and the broad base of knowledge related to history, research methods, and applications to social and cultural processes. Topics include small-group processes and dynamics and shared cognition, attitude development and shifting, social cognition and emotion, self-concept and self-regulation, conformity, affiliation and independence in groups, group performance, leadership, cross-cultural psychology, and biopsychosocial diversity. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6245)

PSYC 8710 Clinical Neuropsychology (5 cr.)
This course provides an introduction to the field of clinical neuropsychology. Topics include cortical organization (including functions, anatomy, and neuropathology) and higher cortical functions of memory, language, emotions, attention, and perception in disordered brain functions in adults. Neuropsychological approaches, including cognitive neuropsychology, are explored. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6225.)

PSYC 8712 Clinical Child Neuropsychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to clinical child neuropsychology. Topics include the scientific, theoretical, and applied foundations of brain-behavior relations in children with neurological, learning, and/or behavioral disorders. The focus of the course is on a multidimensional, ecological, and sociopsychological perspective relative to prevention, diversity, identification, and intervention with children. (Prerequisites: PSYC 6215, 6225.)

PSYC 8718 Psychology of the Exceptional Individual (5 cr.)
This course examines the cognitive, social-emotional, and psychomotor characteristics of individuals significantly deviating from the norm in behavior and/or adjustment. Topics include understanding individuals with learning disabilities (including emotional, behavioral, and intellectual disorders; autism; brain injury; hearing and vision loss; physical disabilities; and health disorders) and those who are gifted and talented. Inclusion, transition to adulthood, and multicultural diversity are explored. The focus of the course is on skills for developing research-based educational and therapeutic interventions. 

PSYC 8719 Developmental Psychopathology (5 cr.)
This course examines formal psychopathology, emotional, and behavioral disorders and presents the classification systems of infants, children, and adolescents. Topics include contrasting models of psychopathology, classification and epidemiology of childhood psychopathology, co-morbidity rates, differential issues from the current diagnostic manual’s outcome of childhood disorders, therapeutic approaches and their efficacy, and developmental resilience. Case studies are used to illustrate diagnostic issues. (Prerequisites: PSYC 6220, 6225.)

PSYC 8720 Diagnosis and Assessment (5 cr.)
This course is an overview of what is commonly referred to as abnormal psychology; however, what constitutes normalcy is considered from multiple perspectives. Specifically, this is an applied course where students explore the application of diagnostic criteria in various mental health work settings such as schools, rehabilitation facilities, community agencies, and private practices. Environmental and biological factors contributing to behavioral disorders are considered, using the scholar-practitioner model. Techniques are reviewed for the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive, emotional, and developmental disorders, as well as for psychophysiological and psychosocial problems. Multicultural factors that complicate diagnosis are reviewed.

PSYC 8721 Advanced Psychopathology (5 cr.)
This course provides an in-depth examination of current theory and research associated with major psychological disorders and with diagnosis. The major disorders are explored, including substance abuse and psychotic, mood, personality, somatoform, anxiety, mood, dissociative, and eating disorders. Application of the current diagnostic manual to actual clinical situations is emphasized. Current criticisms of the diagnostic system and discussion of alternative models are addressed. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6220.)

PSYC 8722 Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories (5 cr.)
This course summarizes the history and explores the primary concepts of the major approaches to counseling and psychotherapy in current use. The empirical foundations of each theory are examined as well as examples showing how each method is applied to clients. Limitations of each approach are also explored.

PSYC 8723 Multicultural Counseling (5 cr.)
This course is designed to increase students’ awareness and knowledge of, and skills related to, multicultural counseling and the delivery of psychological services. Students explore diversity and identity issues and discuss their impact on the therapeutic relationship. The application of traditional theoretical orientations and current multicultural theories to culturally diverse groups is addressed. Topics include race and ethnicity, sex and gender, sexual orientation, social class, and age and ability.

PSYC 8724 Child Psychotherapy (5 cr.)
This course explores the psychological treatment of children from an array of theories and techniques, including play therapy. Issues of playroom organization, intake interviews, psychological assessment, and intervention are addressed. Typical play behaviors of children at various levels of development, cross-cultural aspects of play, and their meanings are explored. Treatment, evaluation, cultural sensitivity, and ethical practice with children are also presented. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6215.)

PSYC 8725 Group Therapy (5 cr.)
This course provides a comprehensive review of counseling approaches to group therapy. The theoretical bases of different approaches to group therapy, including psychoanalytic, existential, person-centered, gestalt, transactional, behavioral, rational-emotive, and reality-therapy are examined. The focus of this course is on counseling of various types of groups, the efficacy of using group therapy as the treatment method with multicultural and diverse populations, and the stages of group development.

PSYC 8726 Marriage and Family Therapy (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to theoretical perspectives and techniques, classical schools of thought, and recent developments in marriage and family therapy. Culture, gender, and ethnicity factors in family development are explored. Theoretical frameworks in marriage and family therapy, including psychosocial, psychodynamic, transgenerational, strategic, cognitive-behavioral, and social constructionist models, are reviewed and compared. The roles of culture, spirituality, and values in understanding families are explored.

PSYC 8727 Religion and Spirituality in Counseling and Therapy (5 cr.)
This course provides an introduction to significant religious and spiritual movements, the interactions and divergences between religion and spirituality, and how these issues can emerge in counseling or therapy. Topics explored include values; assessment of religious manifestations; relations with clergy/spiritual leaders; use of bibliographic materials; ways to deal with religious/spiritual materials and themes presented by clients; cultural considerations that may intersect with religion and spirituality, especially in relation to race, ethnicity, and nationality; sex and gender roles; sexual orientation; and treatment techniques.

PSYC 8728 Substance Abuse Therapies (5 cr.)
This course examines psychological aspects of addictions involving alcohol, prescription medications, and illegal substances. Current research in the field of dependency and addiction is explored. Topics include diagnosis, models of treatment, treatment planning, use of group and family treatment plans, and efficacy of treatment. Strategies to promote change, including the transtheoretical model of behavior change, are discussed.

PSYC 8729 Grief Therapy (5 cr.)
This course examines grief theory and its processes, tasks, and mediating factors, including age of the bereaved and deceased, type of death, and relationship with the deceased. Topics include coping and coping interventions, dealing with grief in childhood and adolescence, and dealing with grief associated with loss of children. Diversity issues related to race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, sex and gender roles, and spirituality and religion are explored. Emphasis is placed on research-based intervention techniques.

PSYC 8730 Advanced Grief Therapy (5 cr.)
This course explores grief dynamics resulting from complicated grief, trauma, multiple loss, and disasters (both natural and man-made). The focus is on acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including the consideration of cultural factors in the assessment and treatment of those diagnosed with PTSD. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8729.)

PSYC 8732 Medical Crisis Counseling (5 cr.)
In this course, students discuss stress and psychological issues faced by patients and their families when coping with a life-threatening illness. Topics include points of access in the disease process, as well as the understanding of many diseases’ characteristics and treatments, with emphasis on appropriate interventions. Issues such as preferential treatment or lack thereof based on social class, visible family/social support, age, race/ethnicity/nationality, sexual orientation, and religion/spirituality are explored.

PSYC 8741 Psychopharmacology (5 cr.)
This course provides an overview of psychotropic medications and their use in the treatment of mental and behavioral disorders, as well as the cognitive effects of the use and misuse of prescription medications. Topics include the role of the health psychologist in pain management, cancer treatment, medication adherence, and drug misuse. The focus is on the treatment of common mental issues as well as the effect of medications used to treat physical conditions. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6225)

PSYC 8745 Health Psychology (5 cr.)
This course reviews the field of health psychology with a focus on the biopsychosocial model; behavioral and biomedical theories are also discussed. Topics include the effect of psychological (personality), behavioral (health behaviors and coping), and social factors (stress and physician-patient relationships) on physical health and wellness. The course specifically addresses cardiovascular and immune health with a discussion of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and HIV/AIDS.

PSYC 8746 Behavioral Nutrition (5 cr.)
This course examines the interaction between behavior and nutrition. Topics include fundamental principles of human digestion and nutrient metabolism, specific nutrient requirements of the brain and brain metabolism of nutrients, and effects of nutrients on brain function. Using this background, students critically examine current trends in behavioral nutrition and conduct nutritional assessments. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6225.)

PSYC 8747 Psychoneuroimmunology (5 cr.)
This course examines current theory and interdisciplinary (psychological and medical) research associated with psychoneuroimmunology (PNI). Topics include the mind/body interaction, its effects on overall health through modulation of the immune system, and mind/body interventions. Recent advances in medical science that have contributed to our knowledge of biological processes and how the mind can be used as a potent force in modifying the biological mechanisms involved in wellness and illness are explored. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6225.)

PSYC 8748 Stress and Coping (5 cr.)
This course examines the literature related to contemporary theories on the perception of stress, appraisal of stressors, ways of coping, and the psychophysiological mechanisms involved in the stress response. Topics focus on psychoneuroimmunology, behavioral nutrition, psychophysiology, traumatic stress, chronic pain, and stress-related psychophysiological and medical disorders as they relate to stress and coping. (Prerequisite: PSYC 6225.)

PSYC 8750 Foundations of Industrial/Organizational Psychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to the field of industrial/organizational psychology. The major focus is on organizational theories and practices impacting the individual, group, and organization in a variety of industrial and organizational settings. Students learn to translate research and theory into practice in areas such as personnel selection, training, performance, and management, as well as in team and organizational development and change.

PSYC 8752 Psychology of Organizational Behavior (5 cr.)
This course examines the application of behavioral theories in organizational settings. The focus is on individual, group, and organizational behavior. Topics include individual differences in employee motivation and job satisfaction, group development, team building, organizational leadership, and organizational design, culture, and development. Students acquire a broad knowledge base in organizational psychology, its research, and its applications. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8750.)

PSYC 8753 Vocational Psychology and Counseling (5 cr.)
This course examines major career development theories, assumptions, and implications for practice. Career information programs and systems in terms of their application to personnel assessment, counseling, development, and placement are reviewed. Focus is placed on the implications of individual differences in cultural, gender, and age-related issues. Students obtain a theoretical and practical basis for supporting individuals in vocation selection and career development.

PSYC 8754 Personnel Psychology in the Workplace (5 cr.)
This course explores the application of psychological theory and practice to human resources activities in organizations. Topics include job analysis and design, employee selection and placement, training and development, performance management and appraisal, and legal and ethical considerations in human resources management. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8750.)

PSYC 8755 Leadership and the Process of Change (5 cr.)
This course provides an extensive consideration of leadership theories. Topics include definitions of leadership, major theoretical leadership models, and contextual and situational factors related to leadership. Special consideration is given to effective leadership issues and practices during the process of organizational change. Various perspectives on leadership and its role in the achievement of organizational, group, and team goals are explored. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8750.)

PSYC 8756 International/Cross-Cultural Issues in Organizations (5 cr.)
This course focuses on workplace issues arising from diverse cultural contexts. Topics include international and cultural comparisons of work motivation, communication, leadership, and decision-making, as well as organizational structures and characteristics. Sources and management of conflict, including conflict resolution strategies, are explored.

PSYC 8760 Educational Psychology (5 cr.)
This course examines the variables related to teaching and learning. Topics include teaching methods, educational achievement, learning environments, curriculum development, and characteristics of teachers and learners. Educational assessment, environmental issues, and educational research techniques are also explored.

PSYC 8762 Teaching of Psychology (5 cr.)
This course examines techniques and issues related to teaching psychology at the college/university level. The primary focus is on teaching skills, developing rapport with students, managing the course, and managing the classroom. Classroom communication and ethical issues relevant to both faculty and students are also covered.

PSYC 8763 Principles of Instructional Design (5 cr.)
This course presents a critical analysis of various instructional methods and techniques. It provides an overview of major theories of learning and an analysis of specific instructional applications. Students apply their prior knowledge of learning, development, and cognition to understanding factors related to instruction and instructional design. (Prerequisites: PSYC 6230 or 6235, 8760.)

PSYC 8764 Instructional Design for Online Course Development (5 cr.)
This course explores instructional design and delivery of online courses, issues related to assessment and evaluation in a distance-learning environment, and appropriate and systematic use of technology in online learning venues. Issues such as learning styles and instructional strategies in the online environment, alternatives to the online lecture, and effective course objectives and discussion questions are explored. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8763.)

PSYC 8780 Seminar in School Psychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces prospective school psychologists to the field of school psychology. Topics include the role and function of the school psychologist; legal, ethical, and professional issues in school psychology; fieldwork experiences; research methods in school psychology; and emerging technologies in school psychology.

PSYC 8781 Psychopathology From a Clinical Perspective (5 cr.)
This course provides an in-depth examination of current theory and research associated with major psychological disorders and their diagnosis. The primary classification systems are explored in terms of their applicability and limitations. The factors that impact the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders along a continuum of mental health are explored. Application of the diagnostic criteria in terms of case conceptualization is emphasized.

PSYC 8782 Psychopathology From a Counseling Perspective (5 cr.)
This course provides an in-depth examination of current theory and research associated with major psychological disorders and their diagnosis. The primary classification systems are explored in terms of their applicability and limitations. The factors that impact the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders along a continuum of mental health are explored. Application of the diagnostic criteria in terms of case conceptualization is emphasized.

PSYC 8784 Psychological Consultation (5 cr.)
This course examines the history, theory, process, and methods in the field of psychological consultation. It reviews the qualifications and techniques required by the psychologist to consult in a variety of settings, including the courtroom, business and industry, and educational, mental health, and medical settings.

PSYC 8785 Prevention: Research and Practice (5 cr.)
This course provides an inquiry into prevention and intervention programs for individuals, groups, and communities. Students consider cultural, social, psychological, family, organizational, and political factors bearing on the mental health and development of people in various settings, including schools, communities, and organizations. Theoretical frameworks guiding prevention and intervention are explored, including constructivist and ecological-developmental perspectives. Students gain experience in developing prevention-oriented programs within diverse systems.

PSYC 8805 Holistic Psychology (5 cr.)
This course provides students with a foundation in holistic psychology. Students examine topics in holistic and transpersonal psychology, as well as influences of theory and research in the areas of spirituality and mind/body relationships. Topics include states of consciousness, emotional and psychosomatic disorders, spiritual emergencies, death and dying, and integral psychology. Focus is placed on integration of perspectives.

PSYC 8810 Community Psychology (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to the basic concepts and practice of community psychology. Guiding values and assumptions of the field, basic ecological concepts, and models of intervention are examined. Topics include diversity in community psychology, social change, primary and secondary prevention, community mental health, empowerment, stress, and resiliency.

PSYC 8815 Contemporary Gerontology/Geriatric Psychology (5 cr.)
This course provides a multidisciplinary approach to the study of aging in contemporary societies. Biological, psychological, social, and societal contexts of aging are examined. Topics include historical and cross-cultural perspectives on aging, social theories of aging, managing chronic diseases, cognitive changes associated with aging, mental health issues, sexuality, and social interactions.

PSYC 8820 Successful Practice Management (5 cr.)
This course examines management principles and practices for applied and consulting psychologists. Topics include client goal setting; systematic intake procedures; developing treatment/intervention plans; treatment coordination and progress assessment; scheduling and billing; practice demographics; risk management; staying current with research, legal, and ethical issues; and staff supervision. (Prerequisite: PSYC 8705.)

PSYC 8825 Psychology of Gender (5 cr.)
This course introduces students to theories and research on gender role expectations and their influence on the psychosocial developmental experience of women, men, and children. Current gender research is applied to understanding achievement, work, relationships, sexuality, violence, and physical health and illness. Responses of women and men to life stresses, women as clients in psychotherapy, and the increasing role of gender research in the mental health professions are emphasized.

PSYC 8830 Psychology of Sexuality (5 cr.)
This course provides an exploration of sexuality from a variety of perspectives, including historical, psychological, sociological, anthropological, biological, public health, and media and cultural studies. Traditional understandings of sexuality (including male and female sexual anatomy, physiology, and response; variations across the lifespan; sexual communication; love and interpersonal attraction; and sexual “disorders”) are examined using a variety of theoretical perspectives, including essentialist and constructivist notions of sex, sexuality, and sexual identity.

PSYC 8860 Independent Reading (1–5 cr.)
This course provides students with an opportunity to examine a topic area of interest in more depth than is provided in the course offerings. Students work with a faculty member to design a syllabus that defines the scope of the learning and participate in classroom experience. (Prerequisite: Approved petition to academic advising.)

PSYC 8871 Practicum (6 cr.—3 cr. per term for 2 terms)
The practicum provides students with the opportunity to engage in a supervised experience that integrates theory and research with practice. The practicum experience includes guided development of intermediate conceptual, assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills; awareness of professional and ethical issues; professional and interpersonal growth; development of cultural competence; and effective use of supervision. Students must secure a practicum appropriate to their specialization, and the practicum must meet the current requirements of the state psychology board to which the student intends to apply. The practicum must be designed for a period of no fewer than 750 hours, to be completed over a minimum of two terms. Students participate in an online classroom experience. (Prerequisite: Completion of the practicum application and approval of the field training coordinator.)

PSYC 8882 Internship (12 cr.—3 cr. per term for 4 terms)
The internship provides a supervised training experience that prepares students to successfully function in the role of a professional psychologist and/or counselor. Internship experiences emphasize the integration of theory and research through applied practice in a variety of settings and situations. Interns are mentored through a professional relationship with a supervising psychologist. They learn how to effectively use and understand a supervisory relationship, engage in critical thinking, conduct assessments, implement evidence-based interventions, evaluate intervention efficacy, engage in professional consultation, and function within professional ethical standards. Interns also participate in didactic training. Internship is the final component of advanced applied professional training for students in licensure specializations prior to graduation. Students must secure internships appropriate to their specialization, and the internship must meet the current requirements of the state psychology board to which the student intends to apply. A total of 2,000 hours is required. Internships may be designed as a part-time or a full-time experience (minimum of 15 hours per week) and must be completed within a two-year time frame. Students participate in an online classroom experience. (Prerequisites: PSYC 8871, completion of the internship application, and approval of the field training coordinator.)

PSYC 8895 New Faculty Orientation (5 cr.)
The New Faculty Orientation (NFO) is an asynchronous course designed to welcome new faculty members to the Walden community. Post-doctoral students taking this course will be exposed to Walden’s culture—history, mission, values, and goals—infrastructure, and educational philosophy. The NFO includes eCollege software training, online teaching best practices, and practical techniques for teaching an online course. It also includes training in best practices in distance education, diversity, academic integrity, and mentoring theses and dissertations at a distance.

PSYC 8901 Advanced Seminar in Psychology: Foundations of Reading and Literacy Development (5 cr.)
This course is designed to provide psychology students with a foundation in reading and literacy, responding to the challenge of promoting higher levels of literacy achievement for all students. It presents historical and contemporary perspectives on reading, implications of brain research, an introduction to reading processes, and a study of parent involvement in education. The course also covers reading assessment, linking assessment to intervention, the use of the three-tiered model, and the Response to Intervention (RTI) model. (This course satisfies the School Psychology requirement for EDUC 6641.)

PSYC 8902 Advanced Seminar in Psychology: Curriculum Theory and Design (5 cr.)
Psychology students who plan to work in schools may be involved in curriculum design issues as a part of their employment. This course helps students acquire an understanding of curriculum theory and design as it applies to the district or departmental level. Theoretical foundations of curriculum are applied to solving curricular problems with emphasis on the theoretical, practical, and political complexity of curriculum work. (This course satisfies the School Psychology requirement for EDUC 8807.)

PSYC 8912 Mental Health Law (5 cr.)
This course examines several different aspects of the law related to mental health issues. Laws and court decisions that affect the practice of psychology, such as the Tarasoff ruling, mandated reporting, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), are addressed, as are the many areas of law that constitute forensic psychological practice, including civil matters (such as personal injury and civil competency issues) and criminal matters (such as competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, diminished capacity, and death penalty issues).

PSYC 9000 Dissertation Research (20 cr.)
This course sequence offers doctoral students the opportunity to integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area that includes the completion of a research study. Students complete the dissertation with the guidance of a chair and committee members, in a learning- platform classroom in which weekly participation is required. Students work with a dissertation chair to write the prospectus, complete an approved proposal (the first three chapters of the dissertation), complete an application for Institutional Review Board approval, collect and analyze data, and complete the dissertation. During the final quarter, students prepare the dissertation for final review by the university and conclude with an oral defense of their dissertation. Once students register for PSYC 9000, they are registered each term until successful completion of the dissertation, for a minimum of four terms.

RSCH 8100Y Research Theory, Design, and Methods (4 cr.)
This research course provides students with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the doctoral level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the importance of theory in research, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method research designs and methods are introduced. Ethical and social change implications of conducting research, producing knowledge, and engaging in scholarship are emphasized. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing elements of simple research plans. (Prerequisite: A Foundation course or first course in a program.)

RSCH 8200Y Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis (4 cr.)
This research course provides students with core knowledge and skills for designing quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding data analysis and applying statistical concepts. Students explore classical quantitative research designs and common statistical tests, the importance of quality assurance, and ethical and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. This course approaches statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to calculate statistics data and interpret and present results. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a quantitative research plan. (Prerequisite: RSCH 8100Y Research Theory, Design, and Methods)

RSCH 8250Y Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis (4 cr.)
This research course builds upon knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8200Y Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis and provides experience applying them. It provides students with more specialized knowledge and skills for designing quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding multivariate data analysis and applying more advanced statistical concepts. Students explore comprehensive quantitative research designs and suitable statistical tests; the importance of quality assurance; and ethical considerations and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. This course approaches statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting the appropriate research design and statistical tests for more complex research questions or problems. Students use statistical software to perform analyses and interpret and present results. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a quantitative research plan. (Prerequisite: RSCH 8200Y Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis)

RSCH 8300Y Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis (4 cr.)
This research course provides students with core knowledge and skills for designing qualitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding data analysis. Students explore the nature of qualitative inquiry; fieldwork strategies and the nature of observation; theoretical approaches to qualitative research; the importance of quality assurance; and the ethical, legal, and social change implications of conducting qualitative research and producing knowledge. Students use software to code data and interpret and present results. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a qualitative research plan. (Prerequisite: RSCH 8100Y Research Theory, Design, and Methods)

RSCH 8350Y Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis (4 cr.)
This research course builds upon knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8300Y Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis and provides experience applying them. It provides students with more specialized knowledge and skills within each of the common qualitative traditions for designing qualitative research at the doctoral level. Students explore more complex qualitative research designs and analyses; multiple approaches to coding and organizing data; core components of a qualitative write-up; the importance of quality assurance; and the ethical considerations and social change implications of conducting qualitative research and producing knowledge. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a qualitative research plan. (Prerequisites: RSCH 8300Y Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis)

RSCH 8450Y Advanced Mixed-Methods Reasoning and Analysis (4 cr.)
This research course builds upon knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8200Y Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis and RSCH 8300Y Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis. It provides students with more specialized knowledge and skills for designing mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. Students gain an understanding of the types of mixed-methods designs and how to select the most appropriate approach for the research question. The course emphasizes integrating quantitative and qualitative elements into true mixed-methods studies; practice in data analysis; and integration of qualitative and quantitative data within a research write-up. Reliability and validity in mixed-methods approaches will be highlighted. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a truly mixed-methods research plan that appropriately incorporates qualitative and quantitative elements. (Prerequisites: RSCH 8200Y Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis and RSCH 8300Y Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis)