2010-2011 CATALOG

This is an archived copy of the 2010-2011 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.miracosta.edu

Psychology

Psychology is the study of people through an examination of their thoughts, emotions, and behavior. MiraCosta's Psychology Program has a biological and physiological emphasis. Students are introduced to the science of psychology, including systematic research and analysis. They learn how to follow the principles of the scientific method and how to write using American Psychological Association (APA) style. The psychology discipline provides the tools to gather data efficiently and skillfully and to examine the nature of human behavior. Students may take courses to prepare for a psychology major or to fulfill general education requirements.

Contact Information

Department Chair: Robert Kelley

Dean: Ric Matthews

www.miracosta.edu/PSYC

Department: Behavioral Sciences

Office: Building 3100, (760) 795-6871

Full-Time Faculty

Wendy J. Curtiss
Stephen J. Eso
Lisa Fast

Robert Kelley
David McField

Associate Degrees

Associate in Arts Degree

Human Development

Human Development is the study of people's lives from conception to death. The Human Development Program offers lower- division preparation for students who plan on transferring to pursue a bachelor's degree in human development. Students planning to transfer and/or earn this associate degree may also need to complete additional requirements or electives required by the transfer institution, as many CSUs and UCs have unique admissions and preparation-for-the-major requirements. Students should meet with a MiraCosta College counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written plan for their targeted university.

Required courses:
PSYC/CHLD 121	Human Development	3
PSYC/SOC 104	Statistics for Behavioral Science	3
or BIO/BTEC 180	Biostatistics
ANTH 101	Biological Anthropology	3
or ANTH 101H	Biological Anthropology (Honors)
Select three courses from the following (no more than two courses from one discipline):		9-11
ANTH 102	Cultural Anthropology
or ANTH 102H	Cultural Anthropology (Honors)
ANTH 103	Introduction to Archaeology
BIO 100	General Biology (Lecture and Lab)
or BIO 101	General Biology
BIO 202	Foundations of Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity, and Organismal Biology
BIO 204	Foundations of Biology: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Molecular Biology
BIO 220	Human Physiology
CS 150	C++ Programming
GERO 101	Introduction to Aging
HIST 141	History of the Mexican-American in the United States
HIST 142	History of the Mexican-American in the United States
HIST 145	History of African-Americans in the United States
HIST 146	History of African-Americans in the United States
PSYC 101	General Psychology
PSYC 260	Physiological Psychology
SOC 101	Introduction to Sociology
or SOC 101H	Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
SOC/PSYC 205	Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences
Total Units		18-20

Associate in Arts Degree

Psychology

The Psychology Program offers lower-division preparation for students who plan on transferring to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology. Students planning to transfer and/or earn this associate degree may also need to complete additional requirements or electives required by the transfer institution, as many CSUs and UCs have unique admissions and preparation-for-the-major requirements. Students should meet with a MiraCosta College counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written plan for their targeted university.

Required courses:
PSYC 101	General Psychology	3
PSYC 104	Statistics for Behavioral Science	3
PSYC 205	Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences	3
Select three courses from the following:		9-15
ANTH 101	Biological Anthropology
or ANTH 101H	Biological Anthropology (Honors)
BIO 100	General Biology (Lecture and Lab)
or BIO 101	General Biology
BIO 202	Foundations of Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity, and Organismal Biology
BIO 204	Foundations of Biology: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Molecular Biology
CHEM 100	Introductory Chemistry
CHEM 102	Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry
CHEM 110	General Chemistry
CHEM 111	General Chemistry
CS 111	Introduction to Computer Science I: Java
CS 112	Introduction to Computer Science II: Java
CS 113	Basic Data Structures and Algorithms
CS 150	C++ Programming
MATH 115	Calculus with Applications
MATH 150	Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
MATH 155	Calculus and Analytic Geometry II
MATH 260	Calculus and Analytic Geometry III
PHIL 100	Informal Logic and Critical Thinking
PHIL 101	Introduction to Philosophy: Knowledge and Reality
PHIL 102	Contemporary Moral Problems
PSYC/CHLD 121	Human Development
PSYC 211	Learning and Behavior Modification
PSYC 260	Physiological Psychology
SOC 101	Introduction to Sociology
or SOC 101H	Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
Total Units		18-24

Certificates

Certificate of Proficiency

Research Fundamentals

This certificate emphasizes the skills needed to interpret research data and conduct basic research in accordance with the procedures and methods of behavioral science. The certificate is designed for individuals interested in learning research skills and for those who need assistance in improving these skills for their work.

Required courses:
PSYC/SOC 104	Statistics for Behavioral Science	3
LIBR 101	College Research Skills	1
Select three units from the following:		3
PSYC 101	General Psychology
SOC 101	Introduction to Sociology
SOC 101H	Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
ADM 100	Introduction to the Administration of Justice
ADM 100H	Introduction to the Administration of Justice (Honors)
Select three elective units from the following:		3
PSYC/SOC 205	Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences
LIBR 108	Research Strategies for the Online World
Total Units		10

Certificate of Proficiency

Volunteer Services

This certificate offers students core courses in behavioral science combined with at least one behavioral science course that offers service learning. The academic courses provide a fundamental understanding of human behavior. A course that includes service learning requires volunteering in the community combined with written reflection on the volunteer experience. This certificate emphasizes working directly with people in need within the service-learning tradition, and it integrates academics with practice. This certificate can enrich the service of experienced volunteers, guide those interested in volunteering for the first time and transfer students interested in teaching and social service agency work, and provide early experience in public service. Students need to contact the Service Learning Office for information about instructors in behavioral science who offer service learning. In addition, students must provide verification of their volunteer participation through the Service Learning Office to earn the certificate.

Required courses:
SOC 101	Introduction to Sociology	3
or SOC 101H	Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
SOC 102	Contemporary Social Problems	3
Select at least 5 elective units from the following:		5
CHLD/SOC 210	Child, Family, and Community
PSYC/SOC 103	Social Psychology
PSYC/SOC 145	Psychology/Sociology of the Family
Total Units		11

How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses listed in this catalog apply to the fall 2010, spring 2011, and summer 2011 terms. Courses are numbered numerically within alphabetically arranged subject areas.

The bolded first line indicates the official course number, a descriptive title, and the number of units. The next lines indicate prerequisites, corequisites, advisories, repeatability rules, enrollment limitations, UC/CSU credit acceptance, and lecture and lab hours followed by a Taxonomy of Program number in parentheses.

Prerequisites: This is a requirement that must be met before a student can enroll in the course.
Corequisites: This is a course the student must take in the same semester.
Advisories: This is recommended preparation the student is advised but not required to have before or in conjunction with the course.
Repeatability Rules: When a course belongs to a group of related courses, students can complete one course or a combination of courses within the group for a maximum of four completions.
Enrollment Limitations: Some courses place limitations on enrollment. These limitations prevent students from duplicating course work or from enrolling in two sections of the same course in any given semester.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU means the course is accepted for transfer at any California State University (CSU) campus; UC means it is accepted for transfer at any University of California (UC) campus. Some courses can be used to satisfy general education or major requirements while others transfer as elective credit. UC Credit Limitation means credit for the course may have UC transfer restrictions; these restrictions are identified at the end of the course description.
Lecture and Lab Hours: These are the number of hours the course meets for lecture and/or lab per week.
Taxonomy of Program (TOP) Number: The TOP number is identified in parentheses after the lecture and lab hours. This number serves an administrative purpose and is not intended for student use.

The course description summarizes the purpose and key topical areas of the course, and it includes special requirements if any exist. Some course descriptions end with information about whether the course was "formerly" another course, how many times the course may be repeated, if the course is offered pass/no pass, or what the UC credit limitation is.

How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses

PSYC 100: Introduction to Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

A general introduction to the principles of human behaviors with an emphasis on the scientific presentation of psychological information. Topics covered include personality, stress and coping, friendship and intimate relationships, human sexuality, motivation and emotion, mental hygiene, psychological disorders, and psychotherapy. Emphasis is placed upon the relationship between the general principles of psychology and their practical application. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: No credit if taken after PSYC 101.

PSYC 101: General Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

Examines the basic concepts in psychology. Topics include the biological basis of behavior, neuroanatomy, research and statistics, human development, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, stress, health and personality, language, thought and intelligence.

PSYC 103: Social Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in PSYC 103 or SOC 103.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2003.00)

Social psychology examines the effects of society and social groups on individuals. Emphasizes the sociological and psychological factors in socialization, self-concept, interpersonal relationships, and group dynamics. Special attention paid to social cognition, attitudes, social influence, language and cross-cultural differences in social psychology.

PSYC 104: Statistics for Behavioral Science

Units: 3
Prerequisites: MATH 101 or MATH 101B with a grade of C or better or qualification through the Math Competency Exam or approved equivalent.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in BTEC 180, BIO 180, PSYC 104 or SOC 104.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

Statistical methods for analyzing data in the behavioral sciences. Topics include basic research design; descriptive statistics, probability, and sampling distributions; statistical inference and power; linear correlation and regression; t-test and one-way analysis of variance; chi-square. Students will use appropriate technology (e.g., calculators and SPSS) to analyze real-world data, and report results using American Psychological Association style. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for BIO/BTEC 180, MATH 103, or PSYC/SOC 104.

PSYC 112: Child Growth and Development

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: Eligibility for ENGL 100
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in CHLD 112 or PSYC 112.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2003.00)

This course covers the psychological and physical development of children from conception through age six. It relates major theories of physical, cognitive, language, and social/emotional development to the prenatal, infant, and preschool periods within cultural and family contexts. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for PSYC 112/CHLD 112, PSYC 113/CHLD 113, or PSYC 121/CHLD 121.

PSYC 113: Child and Adolescent Growth and Development

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: Eligibility for ENGL 100.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in CHLD 113 or PSYC 113.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2003.00)

Study of the child from conception through adolescence. Principles of human development within cultural and family contexts, with emphasis on cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development, both typical and atypical. Consideration of scientific methods, theoretical perspectives, special needs, and the development of skills lending to optimal interaction in adult-child relationships. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for CHLD/PSYC 112, CHLD/PSYC 113, or CHLD/PSYC 121.

PSYC 114: Abnormal Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: PSYC 100 or PSYC 101.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

A detailed examination of behavioral disorders such as anxiety and mood disorders; somatoform and dissociative disorders; eating, sleep, and physical disorders; sexual and gender identity disorders; substance-related and impulse-control disorders; personality disorders; schizophrenia, and developmental and cognitive disorders. Special attention will be given to various clinical therapies for the above disorders. Transfers to CSU as a psychology elective but not within the psychology major.

PSYC 115: Human Sexuality

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

One segment of the course acquaints the student with the biological aspects of human sexuality, including sexual anatomy, the sexual response cycle, sexual behaviors, sexual dysfunctions, pregnancy and birth control, and prenatal development. A second segment of the course deals with the psychological aspects of sexuality, including attraction, communication, intimacy, and love. A third segment examines the social aspects of sexuality and gender, including legal, moral, educational, and ethical issues.

PSYC 121: Human Development

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in CHLD 121 or PSYC 121.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2003.00)

The psychological and physical development of the individual from conception through childhood, adolescence, and maturity. Major theories of intellectual, physical, emotional, and social development presented. Emphasis is on the interdependence of various periods of the individual's life. Consideration of scientific methods, behavioral disorders, death, and spirituality. Understand the diversity that exists in our culture during one's life span. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for CHLD/PSYC 112, CHLD/PSYC 113, or CHLD/PSYC 121.

PSYC 125: Psychology of Women

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

This course examines psychological theories, including feminist theories, of women's development. Biological and cultural factors that shape and define women's lives are included. The influence of sexism and gender socialization, sexuality, personal relationships, health, education, work, aging, and the impact of violence against women are studied in relationship to their impact on women's self-concept, social relationships, and achievements.

PSYC 145: Psychology/Sociology of the Family

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in PSYC 145 or SOC 145.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2003.00)

Studies the family as a social institution and includes social and psychological factors applied to understanding the family and intimate relationships. The course examines social, cultural, and psychological factors linked to sexuality, love, partner selection, and marital choice; adjustment and conflict in marriage, family, and intimate relationships; and changing models of families. Included are cross-cultural comparisons of family systems, historical perspectives, family organization, and changes and trends in contemporary society that influence the family.

PSYC 205: Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences

Units: 3
Prerequisites: PSYC 101 or SOC 101; and PSYC 104 or SOC 104; and ENGL 100.
Corequisite: PSYC 104 or SOC 104 (for students with MATH 103 credit).
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in SOC 205 or PSYC 205.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (2001.00)

This course introduces research methodologies used in the behavioral sciences. It emphasizes an appreciation of the scientific method, the development of research skills, knowledge of research ethics, and the evaluation of scientific research. Students conduct library research, design and implement research projects using appropriate methodologies and controls, analyze and interpret data using a statistical computer program, and write research reports using the APA format. Students with MATH 103 may take PSYC/SOC 104 concurrently with Research Methods.

PSYC 211: Learning and Behavior Modification

Units: 3
Prerequisites: PSYC 100 or PSYC 101.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

Survey of the principles of learning and the research applications of behavior modification. Topics include the historical origins of learning theory; classical and operant conditioning; the Rescorla/Wagner model of the learning curve; cognitive aspects of complex learning tasks; and biological factors in learning. The principles of behavior modification including reinforcement and punishment; the Premack principal; schedules of reinforcement, including Capaldi's sequential model; and applications of behavior modification in an educational environment are covered. A voluntary service learning option is available with this course.

PSYC 260: Physiological Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: PSYC 101.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

A second semester course in the biological bases of behavior that includes research in psychobiology, research methods, neuroanatomy and neuron function, psychoactive drugs, sensory systems, motivation and emotion, learning and memory, lateralization and language, genetics and the neurochemistry of psychopathology.

PSYC 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: Complete 6 units at MCC prior to internship; permission of instructor and department chair required.
Corequisite: Must currently be enrolled in 3 units and complete 60 hours of non-paid or 75 hours of paid work per unit of credit.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
(2001.00)

Individualized study linking classroom learning to the workplace. Approval form must be signed by instructor and department chair before registration. (May be taken for a total of 12 units.)

PSYC 293: Topics in Psychology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Repeatability Rule: Allow four completions in any combination of PSYC 293, PSYC 296.
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

A study of relevant topics in the discipline not covered in the current selection of courses. Designed to meet special needs; content determined by participating faculty members in consultation with students and the community. Non-transfer topics only.

PSYC 296: Topics in Psychology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Repeatability Rule: Allow four completions in any combination of PSYC 293, PSYC 296.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

PSYC 298: Directed Studies in Psychology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and department chair.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Laboratory 3 hours.
Laboratory 6 hours.
Laboratory 9 hours. (2001.00)

Individualized study, project, or research in area of particular interest to the student and not included in the regular courses of the college. Approval form must be signed by instructor and department chair before registration. (May be taken for a total of 3 units.)