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Psychology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

We offer an associate of art (AA) degree that includes university-level transfer courses and other graduation requirements. Courses include general principles, biological and social psychology, research methods, introductory statistics, biological psychology lab, psychology of death and dying, abnormal behavior, human development, family life and intimate relationships, human sexuality, and psychology of aging.

Degrees Offered

A.A.-T. in Psychology
A.A. in Psychology

Dean Pamela Chao
Department Chair Andrea Pantoja Garvey
Phone (916) 484-8283
Email AskHB-PCS@arc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Psychology

The Associate in Arts degree in Psychology for Transfer provides a clearly articulated curricular track for students who wish to transfer to a CSU campus, while also serving the diverse needs of students interested in the breadth and depth of the field of psychology. Additionally, this degree exposes students to the core principles and practices of the field in order to build a foundation for their future personal, academic, or vocational paths.

The degree was designed to facilitate students’ successful transfer to four-year programs that prepare them for advanced study in a variety of graduate programs, as well as a variety of careers such as nursing, sales and marketing, teaching, and law enforcement. Psychologists with graduate degrees and professional certificates have a broad range of employment opportunities including, but not limited to, clinical practice, research, and teaching. Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings and with a wide range of clients. Research psychologists work in a range of fields associated with the study of human behavior, including biomedical, sports psychology, and cognitive neuroscience.

The Associate in Arts degree in Psychology for Transfer provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements of the California State University for transfer. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system.

The Associate in Arts degree in Psychology for Transfer (A.A.-T.) may be obtained by the completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major, including (a) the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program outlined below (earning a C or better in these courses), and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education‐Breadth Requirements.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)	3
or PSYC 480	Honors General Principles (3)
PSYC 310	Biological Psychology	3
PSYC 330	Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3)	3 - 4
or STAT 300	Introduction to Probability and Statistics (4)
or STAT 480	Introduction to Probability and Statistics - Honors (4)
PSYC 335	Research Methods in Psychology	3
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3
PSYC 320	Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)
or PSYC 481	Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
PSYC 370	Human Development: A Life Span (3)
PSYC 373	Child Psychology (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3¹
PSYC 354	The Psychology of Family Life and Intimate Relationships in a Diverse Society (3)
PSYC 356	Human Sexuality (3)
PSYC 361	Psychology of Women in a Multicultural Society (3)
PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
or HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
PSYC 390	Psychology of Death and Dying (3)
Total Units:		18 - 19

¹Or any of the major electives or courses not used above.

The Associate in Arts in Psychology for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

differentiate between scientifically derived knowledge versus pseudoscience within the field of psychology.
compare and contrast the major theoretical perspectives in psychology.
define and apply basic psychological terminology regarding behavior, cognition, and emotion, and be able to express it clearly when writing or speaking about psychology.
evaluate psychological data, use the scientific method, draw reasonable conclusions, recognize the ethical implications of these conclusions, and apply these to personal, community, and scientific problems.
employ and integrate psychological principles that lay the foundation for life-long personal growth and development of interpersonal and social skills.
demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, justice, and inclusion.

Career Information

The Associate in Arts degree in Psychology for Transfer provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements of the California State University for transfer and many other 4-year universities. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system. The degree was designed to facilitate students’ successful transfer to four-year programs. From there, students are prepared for a variety of careers such as case management, sales and marketing, health care facility administration, teaching, and law enforcement. The degree also prepares students to continue their academic studies in post-graduate programs. Psychologists with graduate degrees and professional certificates also have a broad range of employment opportunities including, but not limited to, licensed psychologists, industrial/organizational psychologists, consumer psychologists, and research psychologists.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Psychology

Psychology focuses on the study of behavior of humans and other animals. It involves both pure and practical application of science to matters of everyday life.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)	3
or PSYC 480	Honors General Principles (3)
PSYC 310	Biological Psychology	3
PSYC 330	Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences	3
PSYC 335	Research Methods in Psychology	3
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3
PSYC 320	Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 370	Human Development: A Life Span (3)
PSYC 373	Child Psychology (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3¹
PSYC 305	Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
PSYC 320	Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)
or PSYC 481	Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
PSYC 342	Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
PSYC 354	The Psychology of Family Life and Intimate Relationships in a Diverse Society (3)
PSYC 356	Human Sexuality (3)
PSYC 359	Stress Management and Health (3)
PSYC 361	Psychology of Women in a Multicultural Society (3)
PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
or HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
PSYC 370	Human Development: A Life Span (3)
PSYC 372	Child Development (3)
or ECE 312	Child Development (3)
PSYC 373	Child Psychology (3)
PSYC 374	Psychology of Aging: Adult Development and Aging (3)
or GERON 302	Psychology of Aging: Adult Development and Aging (3)
PSYC 390	Psychology of Death and Dying (3)
PSYC 400	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
or HSER 340	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
Total Units:		18

¹PSYC 320, PSYC 370, and PSYC 373 may be used for this requirement if not used previously.

The Psychology Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

differentiate between scientifically derived knowledge versus myth and conjecture within the field of psychology.
compare and contrast the major theoretical orientations in psychology.
define basic psychological terminology regarding behavior, cognition, and emotion, and be able to express it clearly when writing or speaking about psychology.
evaluate psychological data using the scientific method, draw reasonable conclusions, recognize the ethical implications of these conclusions, and apply these to personal, community, and scientific problems.
employ psychological principles that lay the foundation for life-long personal growth and development of interpersonal and social skills.
demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, justice, and inclusion.

Career Information

The Psychology degree is designed to facilitate students’ successful transfer to four-year programs that prepare them for advanced study in a variety of graduate programs. Psychologists with graduate degrees and professional certificates have a broad range of employment opportunities including, but not limited to, clinical practice, research, and teaching. Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings and with a wide range of clients. Research psychologists work in a range of fields associated with the study of human behavior, including biomedical, sports psychology, and cognitive neuroscience.

Psychology (PSYC) Courses

PSYC 300 General Principles

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 300, 305, & 480 combined: maximum credit, one course)
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D9; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID PSY 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides a broad overview of general principles of psychology. Topics include the scientific method, statistics, biological determinants, as well as general processes of behavior, such as development, learning, language, intelligence, perception, motivation, emotion, personality, and mental health. This course is not open to students who have taken PSYC 480.

PSYC 305 Psychology Applied to Modern Life

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 300, 305, & 480 combined: maximum credit, one course)
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D9; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID PSY 115
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course explores human behavior, emphasizing the practical aspects of psychology in everyday life utilizing both psychological theory and research. Topics include personality, stress and coping, self-understanding, communication, interpersonal relationships, gender, sexuality, psychological disorders and their treatment, personality, personal values, and positive psychology.

PSYC 310 Biological Psychology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:PSYC 300 or 480 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B2; IGETC Area 5B
C-ID:C-ID PSY 150
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course examines the physiological determinants of behavior and cognition. The role of genetics, neural development, neural communication and pathways, brain structures, neurotransmitters, drugs, endocrine system, and sensory systems in typical and atypical behavior and cognition are addressed. Current theories related to the role of neural and biological processes in the etiology and treatment of psychological disorders, motor disorders, and other central nervous pathologies are presented. Ethical standards for human and animal research are discussed.

PSYC 311 Biological Psychology Laboratory

Units:1
Hours:54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:PSYC 310
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course involves the applied study of the nervous system focusing on its anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and impact on behavioral and mental processes. It provides a foundation in the principles of the scientific method and practical experience in its application to the study of biological psychology. Specific topics include anatomy, physiology, and organization of the nervous system, with special emphasis on the brain; anatomy and physiology of the neuron; physiology of nerves and nerve conduction; the biochemistry of the synapse; anatomy and physiology of sensory systems; and psychophysical examination of sensation and perception. It utilizes brain dissection procedures, interactive computer simulations, and lab experiments with data collection and analysis.

PSYC 320 Social Psychology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:PSYC 300 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID PSY 170
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course analyzes human behavior in relation to the social environment, including the power of the situation, other individuals, and the social group. Topics include aggression, prejudice, attraction, altruism, attitude change, conformity, gender roles, cultural norms, person perception, and social cognition.

PSYC 330 Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:Through the Los Rios Placement Process or successful completion of Algebra II/Integrated Math 3 or Intermediate Algebra.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 330, STAT 300, STAT 305, STAT 480 and ECON 310 combined: maximum credit, 1 course )
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area B4; IGETC Area 2
C-ID:C-ID MATH 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses upon the concepts and applications of descriptive and inferential statistics in psychology and other behavioral sciences. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability and sampling distributions, parametric and nonparametric statistical methods, hypothesis testing, statistical inference and power, correlation and regression, chi-square, t-tests, and analysis of variance procedures. Application of both hand computation and statistical software to data in a social science context is emphasized to include the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings.

PSYC 335 Research Methods in Psychology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:PSYC 300 AND PSYC 330 or STAT 300 with a grade of 'C' or better.
Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b) (effective Fall 2024)
C-ID:C-ID PSY 200
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the various psychological research methods and to the critical evaluation of research. It emphasizes research design, experimental procedures, descriptive methods, instrumentation, and the collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of research data. Research design and methodology are investigated through a review of research in a variety of sub-disciplines in psychology. Students gain knowledge in scientific writing, including proficiency in APA style.

PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 340 & 481 combined: maximum credit, one course)
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID PSY 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course explores the broad questions of normality and abnormality. Topics include the investigation of specific mental, emotional, and behavioral difficulties and current approaches to psychological intervention including present community mental health practices. It considers the contribution of social, biological, and psychological factors to the development and persistence of behavior disorders. This course is not open to students who have taken PSYC 481.

PSYC 342 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:PSYC 300 or 305 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area E1
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course focuses on basic behavioral principles that describe relations between operant behavior and the social and physical environment. It examines behavior as a part of the natural world and in everyday situations. This course focuses on principles of operant conditioning, such as reinforcement, extinction, differential reinforcement, and punishment, as they are related to naturally occurring events. Additional topics include experimental and intervention procedures of applied behavioral analysis. The course also covers practical applications including self-management, institutional settings, schools, child behavior management, as well as treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders.

PSYC 354 The Psychology of Family Life and Intimate Relationships in a Diverse Society

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area E1
C-ID:C-ID SOCI 130
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of family life and intimate relationships from historical, sociological, and psychological viewpoints. Topics include elements for building and maintaining intimate relationships, the structure and functions of the family, sexuality, parenting, gender roles, partner selection, conflict, crisis, divorce, and starting over.

PSYC 356 Human Sexuality

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D4; CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4D; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID PSY 130
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course offers a balanced scientific understanding of the biopsychosocial perspective on human sexual behavior from birth through adulthood. It provides factual, up-to-date, nonjudgmental information designed to dispel myths, and to facilitate problem identification and possible solutions. Sexuality is explored from historical, cultural, psychological, physiological, sociological, and legal viewpoints.

PSYC 359 Stress Management and Health

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area E1
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course examines the connection between stress, stress response, coping, and health. It covers various types of stressors, stress responses, and coping strategies, and the scientific research in these areas. Topics include the impact of stress on physical, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional health. This course focuses on developing healthy ways to cope with stress, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques.

PSYC 361 Psychology of Women in a Multicultural Society

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D3; CSU Area D4; CSU Area D9; IGETC Area 4C; IGETC Area 4D; IGETC Area 4I
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of the psychological effects of society upon women. It emphasizes the exploration of gender roles, sex roles, and stereotypes, as well as the sociocultural, intrapersonal, and interpersonal factors in the development of women.

PSYC 365 Issues of Diverse Populations

Same As:HSER 330
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of the values, problems, issues, concerns and counseling needs of diverse populations by race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical/cognitive/emotional/developmental ability, and age. It also explores the cognitive and emotional aspects of prejudice as it relates to institutional and individual discrimination. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 330.

PSYC 370 Human Development: A Life Span

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID PSY 180
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course examines human development across the lifespan, from conception through death, by focusing on the main domains in developmental psychology (physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional) as well as the interaction among these domains. It emphasizes development as an on-going process, with an effort to encourage the practical application of the knowledge acquired. This course is designed to provide a foundation for careers in educational, social, psychological, and medical fields as well as a better understanding of one's own developmental process.

PSYC 372 Child Development

Same As:ECE 312
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 372, 373, and ECE 312 combined: maximum credit, one course )
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID CDEV 100
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course examines the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional domains and identifies developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence with attention to both typical as well as atypical development in each domain. The influences of culture, family, and the interaction of biological processes and environmental factors are studied. The course covers research methods and data collection approaches. Students will observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages according to developmental theories and research. The material in this course is designed as a foundation for early child care and education, teaching, and parenting. This course is not open to students who have completed ECE 312.

PSYC 373 Child Psychology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory: Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 372, 373, and ECE 312 combined: maximum credit, one course )
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4I
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces the science of child psychology through the analysis of developmental theories and research. It examines key developmental events across the main domains in developmental psychology (physical, cognitive, socioemotional) are examined from conception through adolescence. Questions about development are investigated, with an emphasis on the role of the scientific method. It explores typical and atypical psychological development research is explored as well as the influences of culture, society, family, and physical environments on children’s behavior and mental processes. Additionally, this course provides a scientific foundation for future studies in social sciences, including psychology.

PSYC 374 Psychology of Aging: Adult Development and Aging

Same As:GERON 302
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 374, GERON 300, 302, & SOC 335 combined: maximum credit, one course)
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the physical, psychological, and social aspects of the aging process including the interactions between the elderly and the rest of society. Topics include an analysis of stereotypes, social bonds, environmental factors, sexuality, physical health, mental health, death, and bereavement. This course is not open to students who have completed GERON 302.

PSYC 375 Introduction to Geropsychology and the Aging Brain

Same As:GERON 305
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC (effective Fall 2024)
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D; CSU Area E1
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces foundation theories and constructs of gerontology and psychology to examine the aging-related biopsychosocial changes that influence how mature and older adults feel about themselves, how they process information, and how they encode memories about what they experience and learn. Special emphasis is placed on psychological differences between aging cohorts based on psychosocial factors present during the decade of birth and earlier stages of life, gender/sex and race/ethnicity, the social determinants of health, bias development, prejudice and discrimination, and racism, ableism, sexism, and ageism. Topics include psychological theories, models, and constructs that have practical application during interactions with older people; stages of life and phases of aging; aging-related changes (senescence) and the psychological impact of those changes; how illnesses, diseases, and disabilities complicate aging; the anatomy of the central and peripheral nervous systems; and models of sensorineural processing and learning/memory. Case studies are utilized to explore older adult health and mental health, personality and communication behaviors, environmental factors, and the impact of the social determinants of health on overall well-being, quality of life, and aging outcomes. This course is not open to students who have completed GERON 305.

PSYC 390 Psychology of Death and Dying

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory: Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4I
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course investigates beliefs, attitudes, anxieties, and behaviors associated with dying and death. Information about suicide, life-threatening illnesses, bereavement, and euthanasia are presented.

PSYC 400 Introduction to Chemical Dependency

Same As:HSER 340
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area E1
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course examines the biopsychosociocultural effects of chemical dependency on the individual and the family. It includes an analysis of alcohol and drug use; misuse and abuse across age, gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, and economic conditions contributing to substance abuse; and a description of community efforts at prevention and treatment. This course is not open to students who have completed this course's equivalent.

PSYC 401 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs

Same As:HSER 341
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:HSER 340 or PSYC 400 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of the absorption, metabolism, and the mechanism of action of alcohol and other psychoactive drugs including opiates, stimulants, depressants, cannabinoids, and psychedelics. It includes the pharmacological mechanisms as well as the social and psychological implications of tolerance, habituation, and substance abuse of the user and abuser. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 341.

PSYC 402 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery

Same As:HSER 342
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:HSER 341 or PSYC 401 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study and evaluation of techniques used in the treatment of alcohol dependency. This course will cover both physical and psychological effects of alcohol use, abuse and the impact on family and society. Topics include prevention, intervention, individual and group counseling, detoxification, twelve-step program, therapeutic communities, aftercare programs, harm reduction and addressing high risk drinking. This course is not open to students who have completed this course's equivalent.

PSYC 415 Studying in London: Psychological Elements of British Life and Culture

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D9
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course, offered in a London study abroad program, surveys elements in British history and culture that have influenced the science of psychology. It emphasizes the influences of Sigmund Freud, Charles Darwin, Sir Francis Galton, and the events of World War II to current psychological theories. Additionally, the course examines the social norms in English culture in comparison to other cultures. Field trips are required.

PSYC 480 Honors General Principles

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for the Honors Program.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 300, 305, & 480 combined: maximum credit, one course)
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID PSY 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This honors course is for psychology majors, behavioral science majors, and other students who desire a challenging, issues-oriented introduction to the general principles of psychology. Topics include the scientific method, statistics, biological determinants, and general processes of behavior, such as development, learning, language, intelligence, perception, motivation, emotion, personality, and mental health. In comparison to PSYC 300, this honors course uses an intensive instructional methodology designed to challenge students and cultivate advanced critical thinking skills. Instruction emphasizes critical thinking in a seminar style, where the focus is on analysis and evaluation of psychological theories and research studies as they relate to practical, everyday issues. Honor students will also develop proficiency in library and internet-based research, make oral and written presentations, and participate in student-led group discussions. An APA style research paper is also required. This course is not open to students who have completed PSYC 300.

PSYC 481 Honors Abnormal Behavior

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:Placement into ENGWR 480 through the assessment process.
Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 340 & 481 combined: maximum credit, one course))
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D9; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4I
C-ID:C-ID PSY 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This honors course is for psychology majors, behavioral science majors, and others who desire a challenging, critical thinking, and issues-oriented exploration of normality and abnormality. It examines the origins, symptoms, and treatment of psychological disorders through first-person accounts, the role of multicultural factors, and various theoretical stances. It focuses on thorough analysis and evaluation of biopsychosocial theories and research studies as they relate to the development and persistence of behavior disorders and treatment approaches. In comparison to PSYC 340: Abnormal behavior, this honors course uses an intensive instructional methodology designed to challenge motivated students and cultivate advanced critical thinking skills. Instruction emphasizes critical thinking in a seminar style, where the focus is on analysis and evaluation of psychological theories, case studies, journal research articles, and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) as they relate to the understanding of abnormal psychology. Honor students will also develop proficiency in library and internet-based research, make oral and written presentations, and participate in student-led group discussions. This course is not open to students who have taken PSYC 340.

PSYC 495 Independent Studies in Psychology

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

PSYC 499 Experimental Offering in Psychology

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.