PBSI 105 Psychology as a Major and Profession
Credit 1.
1 Lecture Hour.
Development of building blocks essential to success at Texas A&M University and majors in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences; introduction to understanding how adjusting to college life and exploring strategies will help manage time and motivation; examination of methods for effective studying and test preparation; information about graduate school and careers with and without a graduate-level degree; intended to be taken during first semester in the major. Prerequisites: First semester students in psychology.
PBSI 107 Introduction to Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
(PSYC 2301) Introduction to Psychology. Explore the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes through a broad overview of psychology’s core areas. Investigate topics such as brain function, sensation and perception, learning, memory, cognition, emotion, personality, development, social interaction and mental health. Examine how cultural, social, individual and biological factors shape thoughts, feelings and actions. Apply psychological theories to real-world situations involving relationships, decision-making, mental health and well-being. Evaluate research methods and ethical principles that guide psychological research. Strengthen critical thinking and communication skills while interpreting evidence, analyzing behavior and reviewing psychological phenomena. Gain insight into personal experiences, social dynamics and global perspectives through the lens of psychological science. Build a foundation for further study and professional success across diverse fields. Also taught at Galveston and Qatar campuses.
PBSI 206/AFST 206 Black Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore psychological science through the lens of African-descended peoples across the African Diaspora. Examine core psychological concepts, theories and methods from perspectives rooted in the Black experience. Analyze cultural assumptions in mainstream psychology, compare Afrocentric and Eurocentric frameworks and engage with Black epistemologies. Strengthen critical thinking, deepen cultural awareness and expand understanding of diverse psychological worldviews. Course content is selected to align with the course description and the current state of scholarship in the field. Instructors who teach this class may assign different readings and/or course topics that fit within the course description and meet the learning objectives. Cross Listing: AFST 206/PBSI 206.
PBSI 208 Stereotypes, Prejudice and Minority Experience
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Analyze stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination and racism through psychological, historical, sociological and cultural perspectives. Examine how beliefs, attitudes and behaviors toward social groups are formed and maintained. Explore the lived experiences of marginalized groups. Apply scientific frameworks to understand intergroup dynamics and critically evaluate current social issues through the lens of psychological science. Course content is selected to align with the course description and the current state of scholarship in the field. Instructors who teach this class may assign different readings and/or course topics that fit within the course description and meet the learning objectives. Prerequisites: PBSI 107.
PBSI 209/AFST 209 Psychology of Culture and Diversity
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore how culture shapes psychological processes and how psychology explains cultural variation. Analyze cultural influences on cognition, emotion, motivation, identity and mental health. Examine the development and scientific study of culture and discuss how cultural contact and acculturation affect adaptation and intergroup relations. Apply psychological frameworks to understand global diversity and the dynamic relationship between individuals and their cultural environments. Prerequisites: PBSI 107. Cross Listing: AFST 209/PBSI 209.
PBSI 210/WGST 210 Psychological Aspects of Human Sexuality
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examine human sexuality through biological, psychological, social, relational and cultural lenses. Analyze reproductive anatomy, gender roles, sexual identity, sexual orientation and sexual behavior across the lifespan. Explore topics including love, attraction, sexual health, sexual victimization, diversity and sexuality as a commodity. Apply the bio-psycho-social-cultural model to understand how various factors shape sexual experiences and attitudes. Develop skills to assess sexual health, promote well-being and articulate what healthy sexuality means. Prerequisite: PBSI 107. Cross Listing: WGST 210/PBSI 210.
PBSI 225 Lifespan Development
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
(PSYC 2314) Lifespan Development. Explore human psychological development from conception through late adulthood, focusing on how individuals grow, change and adapt across life stages. Examine major theoretical perspectives and empirical research on emotional, cognitive, personality and social development. Investigate biological influences, cultural factors and social relationships that shape behavior and identity over time. Analyze key transitions such as infancy, adolescence, emerging adulthood and aging through evidence-based inquiry. Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills while interpreting developmental claims using scientific methods. Gain insight into the dynamic interplay of nature and nurture and apply psychological principles to personal, professional and societal contexts.
PBSI 235 Introduction to Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Investigate the biological foundations of human thought, emotion and behavior through an introduction to cellular, behavioral and cognitive neuroscience. Examine how psychological processes emerge from neural structures and functions, integrating insights from cellular mechanisms to complex cognitive phenomena. Topics include neural anatomy and physiology, sensory and motor systems, sleep and circadian rhythms, emotion and stress, learning and memory, attention, language and mental disorders. Analyze current research and foundational theories using evidence from both human neuroscience techniques and animal models. Build a strong conceptual framework for understanding how brain activity supports cognition and behavior, preparing for advanced study in neuroscience, psychology and related disciplines. Prerequisites: PBSI 107 or BIOL 111.
PBSI 245 Introduction to Psychological Science Methods
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
(PSYC 2317) Introduction to Psychological Science Methods. Explore foundational research methods and statistical principles used in psychological and brain sciences. Investigate key topics such as research design, measurement, sampling, data collection, descriptive and inferential statistics, scientific communication and ethics. Examine the logic of the scientific method and the role of empirical evidence in understanding behavior and mental processes. Strengthen the ability to critically evaluate studies, interpret data and assess how findings are communicated across academic and applied settings. Build a strong foundation for advanced coursework and professional pathways in psychology, neuroscience, medicine, business and related fields.
PBSI 251 Survey of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the science and practice of industrial-organizational psychology, focusing on how psychological theory and principles apply to workplace behavior. Learn about evidence-based approaches to personnel and human resource management, including job analysis, recruitment, selection, training and performance evaluation. Gain knowledge about organizational topics such as motivation, leadership, teamwork, job satisfaction, organizational climate and occupational health. Compare psychological theory and empirical research to understand and improve individual and organizational outcomes.
PBSI 285 Directed Studies
Credits 0 to 3.
0 to 3 Other Hours.
Directed readings or research problems in selected areas designed to supplement existing course offerings; individual report required. Prerequisites: Approval of instructor; major in psychology.
PBSI 289 Special Topics in...
Credits 1 to 4.
1 to 4 Other Hours.
Selected topics in an identified area of psychology. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: PBSI 107.
PBSI 291 Research
Credits 0 to 3.
0 to 3 Other Hours.
Research conducted under the supervision of a chosen faculty member in the department of psychology; involves discussion and weekly presentation of student research projects. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: PBSI 285; freshman or sophomore classification.
PBSI 300/WGST 300 Psychology of Women
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examine the psychological experiences of women across the lifespan through feminist, developmental and intersectional frameworks. Analyze how social, cultural, biological and psychological factors shape women’s roles and identities in diverse contexts. Explore key topics including gender development, media representation, sexual and reproductive health, cognitive and emotional functioning, work-family dynamics and mental and physical health. Investigate how intersecting identities—such as race, class, and disability—impact access, opportunity and psychological well-being. Strengthen critical thinking and apply evidence-based insights to real-world issues affecting women. Prerequisite: PBSI 107. Cross Listing: WGST 300/PBSI 300.
PBSI 301 Elementary Statistics for Psychology
Credits 4.
3 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Build foundational skills in statistical reasoning through the lens of psychological research. Learn to organize, summarize and interpret data using descriptive and inferential statistics. Apply statistical tests — including t-tests, ANOVA, correlation and regression — to psychology-based datasets. Strengthen understanding of reliability, validity and hypothesis testing. Compute key statistics both by hand and using statistical software to deepen conceptual understanding. Practice scientific writing and APA-style reporting in lab sessions. Develop analytical skills essential for evaluating research and communicating findings in psychology. Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in PBSI 107 and PBSI 245; major in psychology.
PBSI 302 Research Design and Methods in Psychological Science
Credits 4.
3 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Explore how psychological research is designed, conducted and evaluated using scientific and ethical principles. Investigate experimental and nonexperimental designs, emphasizing measurement, control and research validity. Critically assess threats to research validity. Examine psychometric properties such as reliability and validity. Apply statistical reasoning, as appropriate, to evaluate findings and become a critical consumer of psychological research published in peer-reviewed literature and popular press outlets. Strengthen scientific writing and analytical skills through hands-on practice and evidence-based evaluation. Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in PBSI 107 and PBSI 301; major in psychology.
PBSI 304 Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the applied field of sport, exercise and performance psychology, examining how psychological principles influence physical performance, well-being and group and intergroup dynamics. Analyze core topics such as motivation, stress, anxiety, personality, leadership, team cohesion and psychological skills training. Investigate how these concepts apply not only to sport and exercise but also to broader performance domains including medicine, the performing arts, military, law enforcement and the workplace. Understand emerging career paths and applications of psychological science across diverse settings. Prerequisite: Junior or senior classification.
PBSI 305 Psychology of Adjustment and Personal Growth
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Apply psychological principles to understand and improve adjustment across individual, family, school, work and community settings. Explore personal growth, coping strategies and wellness across the lifespan, with attention to cultural, relational, individual and social influences. Examine topics such as stress, mental health, relationships, identity, diversity and life transitions. Practice assessing challenges and promoting change through evidence-based strategies. Strengthen skills in psychological evaluation, intervention and scientific communication to support well-being in everyday life. Prerequisite: Junior or senior classification.
PBSI 306 Psychology of Mental Health
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the scientific study of psychological disorders across the lifespan, focusing on how they are defined, assessed and treated. Examine core concepts in psychopathology including diagnostic classification, clinical assessment and research methods. Analyze biological, psychological and social factors contributing to conditions such as anxiety, mood, psychotic, eating and substance use disorders. Evaluate theoretical models and empirical evidence to understand the development and maintenance of psychological disorders. Strengthen critical thinking and prepare for advanced study in clinical science, mental health and related fields. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended; also taught at Galveston campus.
PBSI 307 Child Development
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Engage with foundational theories and contemporary research in developmental science. Investigate human development from prenatal stages through childhood, emphasizing physical, cognitive and socioemotional growth. Analyze developmental change through the lenses of core psychological perspectives like biopsychology, learning, memory, personality, emotion and social psychology. Explore both typical and atypical development, including foundations for developmental disorders. Examine the interaction of biological and environmental factors that shape childhood outcomes. Strengthen skills in scientific reasoning, critical thinking and real-world application relevant to careers in education, healthcare, counseling and research. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 245, MATH 140, MATH 168, MATH 142, MATH 147, MATH 151, MATH 171, MATH 152, MATH 148, MATH 172, MATH 150, PHIL 240 or STAT 201.
PBSI 310 Career Readiness and Preparation
Credit 1.
1 Lecture Hour.
Exploration of various career paths in the preparation of upper-level undergraduate psychology and neuroscience majors for either entering the job market or pursuing graduate school in psychology or related fields; assistance in preparing for and succeeding in graduate school, and how to apply for a job or to graduate school. Prerequisites: Junior or senior classification; Psychology and Neuroscience-BCN majors.
PBSI 311 Psychology of Animal Behavior
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the psychological foundations of animal behavior through core topics such as learning, motivation and cognition. Analyze how hormones, neural systems and evolutionary pressures shape behavior across species. Examine complex behaviors including communication, mating, parenting, territoriality and social interaction. Apply psychological theory to understand movement, foraging and self-defense strategies. Investigate how animals perceive and respond to their environments and how behavior adapts to ecological challenges. Engage with foundational theories and current research to deepen understanding of how and why animals behave. Prerequisites: PBSI 107, BIOL 111 or BIOL 113.
PBSI 315 Social Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore how thoughts, feelings and behaviors are shaped by the presence of others through the lens of social psychology. Investigate major theories and research on topics such as social perception, attitudes and persuasion, conformity, group dynamics, prejudice, cultural influences, self and identity, aggression, prosocial behavior and interpersonal relationships. Analyze the power of social situations and group processes in shaping individual behavior. Apply psychological frameworks to interpret personal experiences, social interactions and broader societal patterns. Evaluate empirical findings and consider diverse perspectives to gain insight into the complexity of human behavior in social contexts. Strengthen critical thinking while developing a deeper understanding of how individuals influence and are influenced by others. Prerequisite: PBSI 107.
PBSI 316/COMM 316 Media Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examine the role of media and its impact on human behavior, emotions and thoughts; topics include mass media, social media and how they influence individual and societal functioning across a range of important psychological topics; e.g., self-image, sexual behavior, mental health, violence. Prerequisites: PBSI 107. Cross Listing: COMM 316/PBSI 316.
PBSI 319 History and Systems of Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Historical analysis of pre-scientific psychology in philosophy and physiology through the period of the psychological "schools." Prerequisite: PBSI 107.
PBSI 320 Sensation-Perception
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore how sensory systems and the brain work together to create perception. Analyze biological mechanisms, sensory physiology, psychological theories and neural mechanisms to explain how we experience the world through senses like vision, hearing, touch and chemical senses. Evaluate empirical research and major models of perception and assess their applications in science, policy and industry. Develop insight into how perceptual processes shape behavior and human experience and identify the limits of current scientific understanding. Prerequisites: PBSI 235.
PBSI 323 Psychology of Adolescence
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the physical, emotional, cognitive and social changes that define adolescence as a critical stage of human development. Examine how identity formation is shaped by individual differences, environmental contexts and social influences. Analyze the bio-psychosocial factors that contribute to common adolescent stressors, including academic challenges, substance use, risky sexual behavior, delinquency and emotional difficulties. Investigate how developmental processes interact with family, peer, school and community systems to influence adjustment and well-being. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 245, MATH 140, MATH 168, MATH 142, MATH 147, MATH 151, MATH 171, MATH 152, MATH 148, MATH 172, MATH 150, PHIL 240 or STAT 201; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 330 Personality
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore major theories and research in personality psychology. Compare historical and contemporary models, including psychodynamic, trait-based, learning and motivational perspectives. Analyze how individual differences in attitudes, emotions, behaviors and cognition form stable personality traits. Examine the interaction between person and situation and apply assessment techniques to understand personality in diverse contexts. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 332 Neuroscience of Learning and Memory
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Survey the neuroscientific foundations of learning and memory in humans and nonhuman animals. Examine how cognitive and behavioral processes are integrated with neural mechanisms across multiple levels of analysis, from cellular biology to cognitive psychology. Explore topics such as synaptic plasticity, episodic memory and the neural basis of learning. Analyze empirical research and discoveries that inform applications in healthcare, education and artificial intelligence. Strengthen understanding of how brain systems support adaptive behavior and memory formation through interdisciplinary perspectives. Prerequisites: PBSI 235, PBSI 340, VIBS 277 or NRSC 277.
PBSI 333 Biology of Psychological Disorders
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Neurobiology and clinical explanation of molecular mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders and their drug treatments; depression and bipolar, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychosis and schizophrenia. Prerequisites: PBSI 235, PBSI 340, VIBS 277, or NRSC 277.
PBSI 336 Drugs and Behavior
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore research, theory and methods that investigate how drugs influence behavior. Examine the physiological, pharmacological and behavioral effects of psychoactive substances, with emphasis on recreational and addictive drugs. Explore how drugs interact with neurotransmitter systems to alter brain function and behavior. Analyze short- and long-term effects of drug use, mechanisms of addiction and withdrawal, and evidence-based treatments. Investigate major drug classes and their historical, cultural and policy contexts. Apply neuroscience and psychopharmacological research methods to understand how drugs impact individuals and society. Prerequisites: PBSI 235, PBSI 340, VIBS 277 or NRSC 277.
PBSI 340 Learning
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore foundational principles of learning through psychological, behavioral and neuroscientific perspectives, methods and research. Analyze simple and complex learning processes, including habituation, classical conditioning and instrumental learning. Examine philosophical and historical foundations alongside modern research on how learning occurs and adapts across contexts. Apply learning theories to real-world domains such as addiction, therapy, language, artificial intelligence and workplace behavior. Strengthen analytical skills through evaluation of experimental techniques and behavioral data. Prerequisite: PBSI 235.
PBSI 345 Cognitive Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the science of human cognition, focusing on how we perceive, attend to, remember and think about the world. Analyze core cognitive processes including perception, attention, memory, language, reasoning and decision-making. Examine foundational experiments, theoretical models and contemporary research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience. Develop skills to interpret empirical data, evaluate scientific claims and communicate original ideas. Apply cognitive principles to real-world challenges and gain insight into how thought and behavior are shaped by mental processes. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 245, MATH 140, MATH 168, MATH 142, MATH 147, MATH 151, MATH 171, MATH 152, MATH 148, MATH 172, MATH 150, PHIL 240 or STAT 201; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 346 Psychology of Language
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examines theories of how language is acquired, comprehended, produced, stored and used in normal and brain-impaired individuals. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 350 Cognitive Neuroscience
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore how cognitive processes are realized in the brain through the study of cognitive neuroscience. Learn core principles of neuroanatomy, neural function and research methods used to investigate brain-behavior relationships. Analyze how brain systems support mental functions such as perception, memory, attention, language, emotion and decision-making. Examine the effects of brain damage and neurological and psychological disorders on cognition. Develop skills to critically evaluate scientific literature and understand the biological basis of thought and behavior. Prerequisite: PBSI 235.
PBSI 352 Organizational Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the psychological foundations of behavior in organizational settings, with emphasis on evidence-based approaches to motivation, leadership, teamwork, job attitudes, organizational climate, workplace diversity and occupational health. Examine how psychological theories and research inform practices that enhance employee well-being and organizational effectiveness. Critically evaluate empirical findings and their application to real-world organizational challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of how individuals and groups function within workplace systems. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 245, MATH 140, MATH 168, MATH 142, MATH 147, MATH 151, MATH 171, MATH 152, MATH 148, MATH 172, MATH 150, PHIL 240 or STAT 201; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 353 Personnel Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Identify the scientific foundations of personnel psychology and its application to workplace behavior and human resource practices. Compare and contrast psychological theories that explain individual differences and performance in organizational settings. Identify evidence-based approaches to job analysis, recruitment, selection, training, placement and performance evaluation. Critically evaluate research and practice to understand how psychological principles guide effective decision-making in personnel management. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 245, MATH 140, MATH 168, MATH 142, MATH 147, MATH 151, MATH 171, MATH 152, MATH 148, MATH 172, MATH 150, PHIL 240 or STAT 201; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 354 Conflict and Negotiation
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examination of the field of conflict and negotiation, including the structure and causes of common interpersonal, intragroup, and intergroup conflicts, effective negotiation strategies, ethics, mediation, and the development of negotiating skills. Prerequisite: PBSI 107.
PBSI 360 Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examine human health, illness and recovery through an interdisciplinary biopsychosocial lens. Explore how biological, psychological, social, cultural and societal factors interact to influence physical health and well-being. Analyze topics such as stress, health behaviors, mind-body interactions, patient adherence and chronic illness management. Investigate how individual experiences and broader systems shape personal and community health. Engage with evidence-based strategies to promote wellness, prevent illness and improve health care outcomes. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; junior or senior classification.
PBSI 365 Adulthood and Aging
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the psychological dimensions of aging, including changes in physiology, memory, personality, emotional health and social relationships. Analyze how aging influences and is influenced by cultural attitudes, social stigmas and public policy. Examine late-life transitions and their impact on mental health and well-being. Apply psychological principles to real-world contexts such as clinical settings, family dynamics and media portrayals of aging. Develop insight into personal and societal experiences of aging across the lifespan. Prerequisite: PBSI 107.
PBSI 371 Forensic Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the intersection of psychology and the legal system, focusing on how psychological theories, research and mental health expertise inform legal decision-making. Analyze the role of psychology in criminal trials, civil disputes and forensic evaluations. Examine how legal processes influence psychological practice and how psychological evidence contributes to justice outcomes. Engage with topics such as competency, criminal responsibility, eyewitness testimony, jury decision-making and the psychological impact of legal proceedings. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 306 recommended.
PBSI 375 Qualitative Methods in the Psychological Sciences
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Research methods and approaches to engaging in qualitative analysis; topics include epistemological and ontological assumptions of qualitative research, ethical considerations, focus groups, interviews, qualitative surveys, thematic analysis, and use of qualitative software. Prerequisites: Junior or senior classification; grade of C or better in PBSI 107.
PBSI 389 Careers in Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Exploration of graduate study and professional careers in the field of psychology, including teaching, research, and clinical practice; content will include graduate admissions, licensure types, areas of specialization and professional skills related to training and practice in the field of psychology. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; approval of instructor.
PBSI 407 Behavioral Disorders of Children
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Behavior problems related to childhood; psychological aspects of mental retardation, emotional disturbance, physical handicaps and other disorders; causative factors, preventative and therapeutic methods explored; where feasible, practical experience included as requirement. Prerequisites: PBSI 306; PBSI 307 or equivalent.
PBSI 408 Pain Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Critical and transdisciplinary approach to the study of pain including an examination of personal and historical conceptions of pain, understanding of biopsychosocial mechanisms of pain, and consideration of sociodemographic and global pain disparities. Prerequisites: PBSI 107; PBSI 302 and PBSI 360 recommended; junior or senior classification.
PBSI 411 Psychology of Self
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the psychological science of the self, examining how individuals come to understand who they are and how that sense of self influences thoughts, emotions and behavior. Investigate core topics including self-concept, self-esteem, self-regulation, goals and social identities such as political, racial, religious, sexual, gender and national. Analyze the role of culture, social context and existential concerns — such as mortality and uncertainty — in shaping the self. Engage with research from cognitive, social, developmental and clinical psychology to understand the self as both a scientific construct and a central aspect of human experience. Prerequisite: PBSI 107 or approval of instructor.
PBSI 414 Principles of Behavior Change
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Explore the principles of behavior through the lens of behavioral psychology, including behaviorism, applied behavior analysis and behavior modification. Analyze how organisms learn and how these learning principles apply to human experiences. Examine foundational concepts such as reinforcement, punishment and stimulus control and evaluate their use in behavior therapy and real-world behavior change. Develop insight into how scientific methods are used to understand and influence behavior. Prerequisites: 9 hours of psychology; PBSI 107; junior or senior classification; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 421 Existential Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
. Study of major theoretical perspectives and contemporary research in existential psychology; focus on theory and research examining major topics in existential psychology including the causes and consequences of mortality awareness, self-knowledge, authenticity, belief in free-will and the experience of meaning in life. Prerequisite: PBSI 107.
PBSI 425 Psychology of Emotion
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examination of the theories and approaches in the psychological study of emotion; topics related to emotion, including predictors of happiness, causes and consequences of emotion, and the role of emotion in society; identification of facial expressions of emotion; examination of techniques that promote happiness. Prerequisites: PBSI 107.
PBSI 440 Hormones and Behavior
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Principles of hormones and the endocrine system; relationships among hormones, the nervous system and a variety of behaviors in vertebrates including humans. Prerequisites: PBSI 235, PBSI 340, VIBS 277, or NRSC 277, or approval of instructor.
PBSI 445 Psychological and Social Determinants of Health Disparities
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Examine psychological, social, cultural and societal contributors to health disparities in the United States. Analyze how macrosocial factors — such as socioeconomic status, discrimination, gender, religion and geography — affect physical and mental health through mechanisms like stress, healthcare access and cultural inputs. Explore historical and contemporary patterns of morbidity and mortality using interdisciplinary research from psychology, sociology, public health and behavioral science. Strengthen critical thinking and scientific writing while evaluating conceptual models and empirical evidence. Topics and focal groups will vary by instructor. Prerequisite: Junior or senior classification.
PBSI 450 Clinical Psychology
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Analysis of the field of clinical psychology with a particular focus on the theoretical and scientific bases for the practice of clinical psychology. Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in PBSI 306; PBSI 301 and PBSI 302 recommended.
PBSI 470 Psychological Testing and Measurement
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Theories and techniques of measurement of psychological concepts; a range of measurement models and procedures; critical tasks of evaluating strategies for measuring psychological concepts and drawing inferences and interpretations from commonly used psychological assessments. Prerequisites: PBSI 301 recommended; junior or senior classification or approval of instructor.
PBSI 471 Research Writing in Neuroscience
Credit 1.
1 Lecture Hour.
Develop skills in identifying, reading and critically evaluating empirical journal articles in neuroscience and composing scientific writing. Practice academic communication through writing. Apply feedback to improve writing and analytical skills. Build a foundation for contributing to neuroscience research and communicating findings effectively. Prerequisite: PBSI 235; junior or senior classification.
PBSI 475 Communicating Neuroscience Concepts
Credit 1.
1 Lecture Hour.
Identify and critically evaluate empirical research in neuroscience. Communicate complex neuroscience concepts effectively via writing and presentation skills to non-academic audiences and to academic audiences. Strengthen scientific literacy, public engagement and interdisciplinary communication in neuroscience. Prerequisites: PBSI 235; PBSI 471; junior or senior classification.
PBSI 483 Teaching Scholars
Credits 0 to 3.
0 to 3 Other Hours.
Acquisition of experience in educational programs and knowledge about the scientific basis for educational strategies and development of materials in conjunction with serving as a course teaching assistant. Prerequisites: Major or minor within the PBSI department; junior or senior classification; approval of instructor.
PBSI 484 Field Experiences
Credits 0 to 6.
0 to 6 Other Hours.
Participation in an approved mental health, mental retardation, school, industrial or other approved setting; field experiences supervised by an appropriate professor within an area of student interest; course requirements vary with the setting, the supervising professor and the needs of the individual student. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: PBSI 301 and PBSI 302; 12 hours of psychology; GPR of 2.5 or better in all psychology courses; major in psychology; approval of instructor.
PBSI 485 Directed Studies
Credits 0 to 6.
0 to 6 Other Hours.
Directed readings or research problems in selected areas designed to supplement existing course offerings. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.
PBSI 489 Special Topics in...
Credits 1 to 4.
1 to 4 Other Hours.
Selected topics in an identified area of psychology. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: PBSI 107 and approval of instructor.
PBSI 491 Research
Credits 0 to 6.
0 to 6 Other Hours.
Research conducted under the supervision of a chosen faculty member in the department of psychology. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Junior or senior classification; approval of instructor.
