A general introduction to the major concerns of contemporary psychology, including physiological psychology, perception, learning, cognition, language, development, personality, intelligence, and abnormal and social behavior. Recommended for first- and second-year students. Juniors and seniors should enroll in the spring semester.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Spring Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A survey of major changes in psychological functioning from conception through childhood. Several theoretical perspectives are used to consider how physical, personality, social, and cognitive changes jointly influence the developing child’s interactions with the environment.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

This course introduces the foundations of adolescent development and educational psychology. We examine topics such as identity development, cognitive development, social and cultural approaches to learning, risk taking, resilience, and positive youth development for young people ages 10-19. Course concepts and theories will be grounded in empirical research and will be applied to understanding contemporary opportunities and challenges faced by adolescent learning in both school and out-of-school environments. Insights for the ways in which educators can design learning experiences to better serve students’ needs from a variety of backgrounds will be cultivated through a field placement working with students. This course originates in Education and is crosslisted with: Psychology. (Same as: EDUC 2222)

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

An introduction to the phenomenology, etiology, and treatment of mental disorders. Major topics include trauma, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, suicide, and the psychotic disorders. Current paradigms for understanding psychopathology, diagnosis and assessment, research methods specific to clinical psychology, and the legal and ethical challenges associated with mental health care are also a focus.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Spring Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A survey of theory and research on individual social behavior. Topics include self-concept, social cognition, affect, attitudes, social influence, interpersonal relationships, and cultural variations in social behavior.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

This course explores psychological theory and empirical research on prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination. Students learn about the development and causes of intergroup perceptions and antagonism, reasons for the persistence and prevalence of stereotypes and prejudice, ways in which feelings and beliefs about groups influence social perception and interaction, how prejudice and biases are embedded in various levels of society, and possible ways to change group stereotypes or reduce prejudice and discrimination. Students will also analyze their own positionality and how their identity contributes to their understanding of inequality and oppression.

Terms offered: 2025 Fall Semester

Human beings are political animals by nature; we seek to gain influence in an effort to become successful in life. The motivations behind those drives are central to the study of human behavior. The study of political psychology involves using scientific understandings of human behavior and cognition to explain and explore political phenomena. It requires us to think about the many factors that impact political behaviors, from the biological and neurological all the way up to the societal and institutional. In this course we will consider questions regarding how well-equipped humans are to engage in rational and political behaviors, why cooperation and selfishness emerge, why some people are persuaded while others dig their heels in, and how humans have learned to live with each other and negotiate differences. It is suggested that students enrolling for credit in PSYC should have successfully completed PSYC 1101 before enrolling in this course. This course originates in Government and Legal Studies and is crosslisted with: Psychology. (Same as: GOV 2065)

Terms offered: 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester

This course explores the scientific study of human cognition—how people acquire, represent, and use knowledge to guide their everyday functioning. Students learn about scientific methods of studying and understanding cognition and building real-world tools and applications, and also dive into classic and contemporary research on several aspects of the human mind, such as memory, language, and decision-making through short lectures, podcasts, active discussions, in-class activities, and projects.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

An introductory survey of biological influences on behavior. The primary emphasis is on the neurobiological regulation of behavior in humans and other vertebrate animals, focusing on genetic, developmental, hormonal, and neuronal mechanisms. Additionally, the evolution of these regulatory systems is considered. This course explores the structural and functional properties of the central nervous system to understand how behavior occurs—and how it is disrupted—at the molecular, cellular, and systems level. Topics discussed may include cellular processes/communication, sensation/perception, cognition, sleep, eating, sex, and aggression. Emphasis will be placed on how biological mechanisms contribute to psychological [dys]function. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 2050)

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

An introduction to the neuroscientific study of cognition. Topics surveyed in the course include the neural bases of perception, attention, memory, language, executive function, and decision making. In covering these topics, the course will draw on evidence from brain imaging (fMRI, EEG, MEG), transcranial magnetic stimulation, electrophysiology, and neuropsychology. Also considers how knowledge about the brain constrains our understanding of the mind. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 2060)

Terms offered: 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A comparative and evolutionary approach to animal behavioral neuroscience. The primary focus is on the evolution of the brain and behavior in vertebrate systems, including humans, but invertebrates are also discussed. Topics include the evolution and diversity of sensory systems, reproductive behaviors, parental care, learning and memory, social behaviors, intelligence, and cognition. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 2099)

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester

A systematic study of the scientific method as it underlies psychological research. Topics include prominent methods used in studying human and animal behavior, the logic of causal analysis, experimental and non-experimental designs, issues in internal and external validity, pragmatics of careful research, and technical writing of research reports.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Spring Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

An introduction to the use of descriptive and inferential statistics and design in behavioral research. Required of majors no later than the junior year, and preferably by the sophomore year.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Spring Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

Multiple methods used in developmental research are examined both by reading research reports and by designing and conducting original research studies. The methods include observation, interviews, questionnaires, and lab experiments, among others. Students learn to evaluate the relative strengths and weaknesses of both qualitative and quantitative approaches.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

An overview and analysis of the diverse research methods employed by clinical psychologists. Through reading, analysis, and hands-on experience, students gain an understanding of the relative merits of various approaches to understanding the nature and treatment of mental disorders. Major topics include clinical interviewing and assessment, information-processing approaches to understanding psychopathology, and the principles of behavior change. Class participation culminates with the design and conduct of an original research project.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester

An examination of different research methodologies used by social psychologists, including archival research, observation, questionnaires, lab experiments, and online data collection. Students learn about the relative strengths and weaknesses of these different methodological approaches, both by reading research reports and by designing and conducting original research.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A lab-based course on modern research methodologies and techniques used in cognitive science. Students will learn how to formulate a research question, conceptualize a research study from start to finish, program and design web-based experiments, and analyze experimental data to gain deeper insights into various aspects of cognition such as memory, language, and knowledge.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A laboratory course on research methodologies in diversity science, including questionnaires, lab experiments, online data collection, and qualitative interviewing. Students learn about cutting-edge research in diversity science including research on prejudice and discrimination, identity development, intergroup relations, intersectionality, social justice, structural inequality, privilege and power, and culture. Students then formulate a research question, design a research study, collect data, code and analyze their data, and present on their findings.

A laboratory course that exposes students to modern techniques in neuroscience that can be applied to the study of affective behavior, broadly. Underlying concepts associated with various behavioral, molecular, neuroanatomical, pharmacological, and translational methods will be discussed in a lecture format. Students will apply these concepts and techniques in discussions and laboratory preparations demonstrating how affective processes are organized within the central nervous system of vertebrates. This course will explore using experimental examples how the brain influences behavior, thereby illuminating our understanding of human neuropsychological functioning. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 2750)

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

A laboratory course that exposes students to multiple techniques in cognitive neuroscience that can be applied to the study of human cognition. The course will introduce human neuroimaging methods including electroencephlography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Students will then use these methods to study aspects of human cognition including perception, attention, memory, language, problem solving, reasoning, and decision-making. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 2775)

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

Research and theory regarding the interacting influences of biology and the environment as they are related to social and emotional development during infancy, childhood, and adolescence. Normative and idiographic development in a number of domains, including morality, aggression, personality, sex roles, peer interaction, and familial relationships are considered.

Terms offered: 2023 Fall Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

A seminar focusing on the emotion of nostalgia and its place in social psychology. Readings and discussions explore evolutionary, psychological, and philosophical perspectives on nostalgic reflection to enrich our understanding of its origins and purpose. Topics include the emotional content of nostalgia, its triggers, and its psychological functions (including its connections to mood, identity, belonging, empathy, prejudice, and terror management). Special consideration will be given to cross-cultural experiences of nostalgia, along with its potential therapeutic benefits.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

An in-depth study of the theory, research, and practice of contemporary psychotherapy. Major topics may include theoretical approaches to therapy, methods for studying its efficacy, processes of change, the role of the client-therapist relationship, and challenges to disseminating effective psychological treatments to the general public. Readings and discussion supplemented with video of psychotherapy sessions.

Terms offered: 2021 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester; 2025 Spring Semester; 2025 Fall Semester

An examination of how human concerns about death, meaning, isolation, and freedom influence and motivate a wide array of human behavior. Readings and discussions address empirical research on different theories of human motivation (e.g., terror management, meaning maintenance, attachment, compensatory control, and self-determination) that enrich our understanding of topics such as intergroup conflict, religious belief, prosocial behavior, interpersonal relationships, and materialism.

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2023 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

Why are humans considered the most “intelligent” species on the planet? Where does artificial intelligence (AI) fall short in mimicking this intelligent behavior? This seminar course delves into several such fundamental questions about human cognition and how our species is similar to and different from other minds and machines. We will discuss classic and modern approaches to understanding the mind, critically analyze various examples of intelligent behavior (such as language, cooperation, creativity, free will, etc.), evaluate recent work in machine learning and AI, and also draw insights about intelligence from the exciting literature on comparative (animal) cognition. Students will read empirical articles, listen to podcasts, and lead discussions, and also participate through spoken presentations and short writing assignments. Computer Science or Philosophy majors/minors who are interested in this course, should email the instructor to see if they are eligible for a prerequisite override.

Terms offered: 2022 Fall Semester; 2023 Fall Semester; 2024 Fall Semester

An advanced discussion of concepts in behavioral neuroendocrinology. Topics include descriptions of the major classes of hormones, their roles in the regulation of development and adult behavioral expression, and the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for their behavioral effects. Hormonal influences on reproductive, aggressive, and parental behaviors, as well as on cognitive processes are considered. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 3050)

Terms offered: 2022 Spring Semester; 2024 Spring Semester; 2025 Spring Semester

This seminar explores the role of sex as a biological variable on neural and behavioral outcomes, focusing on translational animal models of neuropsychopathology. Students engage with empirical research, historical perspectives, and debates on how sex-difference research in neuroscience is funded, conducted, and interpreted. Through analysis of primary literature, discussions, and presentations, students explore how sex differences—or their absence—shape our understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders and influence research methods. The course covers several animal models, emphasizing how their neural and behavioral findings offer translational insights into human disease. By examining sex-specific neural and behavioral findings in pathological model systems, students gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between sex and typical or atypical outcomes. This course fosters critical thinking about the implications of studying sex differences in behavioral neuroscience and their impact on scientific research and public health. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted in Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 3054)

Terms offered: 2025 Spring Semester

An advanced discussion of recent empirical and theoretical approaches to understanding the cognitive neuroscience of memory. Readings and discussions address empirical studies using neuroimaging methods. Topics include hippocampal and cortical contributions to memory encoding and retrieval and the effect of genetic variability, drugs, emotions, and sleep on memory. This course originates in Psychology and is crosslisted with: Neuroscience. (Same as: NEUR 3055)

Terms offered: 2023 Fall Semester