This is an archived copy of the 2011-2012 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: Carlos Lopez

www.miracosta.edu/PSYC

Department: Psychology

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 121Human Development3
PSYC/SOC 104Statistics for Behavioral Science4
or BIO/BTEC 180 Biostatistics
ANTH 101Biological Anthropology3
or ANTH 101H Biological Anthropology (Honors)
Select three courses from the following (no more than two courses from one discipline):9-11
Cultural Anthropology
Cultural Anthropology (Honors)
Introduction to Archaeology
General Biology (Lecture and Lab)
General Biology
Foundations of Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity, and Organismal Biology
Foundations of Biology: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Molecular Biology
Human Physiology
C++ Programming
Introduction to Aging
Mexican American History Through 1877
Mexican American History Since 1877
African American History to 1877
African American History Since 1877
General Psychology
General Psychology (Honors)
Physiological Psychology
Introduction to Sociology
Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences
Total Units19-21

  

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 101General Psychology3
or PSYC 101H General Psychology (Honors)
PSYC/SOC 104Statistics for Behavioral Science4
PSYC 205Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences3
Select three courses from the following:9-15
Biological Anthropology
Biological Anthropology (Honors)
General Biology (Lecture and Lab)
General Biology
Foundations of Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity, and Organismal Biology
Foundations of Biology: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, and Molecular Biology
Introductory Chemistry
Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry
General Chemistry
General Chemistry
Introduction to Computer Science I: Java
Introduction to Computer Science II: Java
Basic Data Structures and Algorithms
C++ Programming
Calculus with Applications
Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
Calculus and Analytic Geometry II
Calculus and Analytic Geometry III
Informal Logic and Critical Thinking
Introduction to Philosophy: Knowledge and Reality
Contemporary Moral Problems
Human Development
Learning and Behavior Modification
Physiological Psychology
Introduction to Sociology
Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
Total Units19-25

  

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 104Statistics for Behavioral Science4
LIBR 101College Research Skills1
Select three units from the following:3
General Psychology
General Psychology (Honors)
Introduction to Sociology
Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
Introduction to the Administration of Justice
Introduction to the Administration of Justice (Honors)
Select three elective units from the following:3
Research Methods in Behavioral Sciences
Research Strategies for the Online World
Total Units11

  

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 101Introduction to Sociology3
or SOC 101H Introduction to Sociology (Honors)
SOC 102Contemporary Social Problems3
Select at least 5 elective units from the following:5
Child, Family, and Community
Social Psychology
Psychology/Sociology of the Family
Total Units11

 

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
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in PSYC 101H.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

This course examines the biological basis of human behavior, including topics such as neuroanatomy, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, language, thought, and intelligence. It also introduces research methods and statistics. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for PSYC 101 or PSYC 101H.

PSYC 101H: General Psychology (Honors)

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in PSYC 101.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 3 hours. (2001.00)

This course examines the biological basis of human behavior, including topics such as neuroanatomy, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, language, thought, and intelligence. It introduces research methods and statistics. As an honors course, it provides an enhanced experience for motivated students through advanced course work and reading materials, enriched analysis and discussion of psychological topics, special attention to science in psychology, and refinement of critical thinking skills. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for PSYC 101 or PSYC 101H.

PSYC 103: Social Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in 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: 4
Prerequisites: MATH 101 or MATH 101B or qualification through the Math Competency Exam or approved equivalent.
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in BTEC 180, BIO 180, PSYC 104, or SOC 104.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC Credit limitation
Lecture 4 hours. (2001.00)

This course introduces 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 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 180/BTEC 180, MATH 103, or PSYC 104/SOC 104.

PSYC 114: Abnormal Psychology

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: PSYC 100, PSYC 101, or PSYC 101H.
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 credit in CHLD 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 112, CHLD 113, or CHLD 121/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 credit in 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, PSYC 101H, SOC 101, or SOC101H; 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 credit in SOC 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 104/SOC 104 concurrently with Research Methods.

PSYC 211: Learning and Behavior Modification

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

This course surveys the principles of learning and the research applications of behavior modification. Topics include the historical origins of learning theory; classical and operant conditioning; cognitive aspects of complex learning tasks; and biological factors in learning. The course also covers the principles of behavior modification, including reinforcement and punishment, schedules of reinforcement, and applications of behavior modification in an educational environment.

PSYC 260: Physiological Psychology

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

This course introduces the biological basis of behavior. Students gain an appreciation of how the human brain creates a perception of the physical world, develop the ability to critically evaluate research in biological psychology, and understand the biological mechanisms that underlie psychological phenomena. Topics include research in biological psychology, anatomy of the nervous system, development of the nervous system, neurons and action potential, communication at the synapse, effects of psychoactive drugs, sensory systems, motivation and emotion, sleep/wake cycles, learning and memory, lateralization and language, and the biological basis of psychopathology.

PSYC 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 60 non-paid or 75 paid hours of work per unit.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
(2001.00)

This course provides students the opportunity to apply the theories and techniques of their discipline in an internship position in a professional setting under the instruction of a faculty-mentor and site supervisor. It introduces students to aspects of the roles and responsibilities of professionals employed in the field of study. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or intern at a new site upon each repetition. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.

PSYC 296: Topics in Psychology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
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.

PSYC 298: Directed Studies in Psychology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor and department chair approval and successful completion of 12 units of college work with at least a 3.0 grade-point average.
Repeatability Rule: May be taken for a total of 3 units.
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.)

PSYC 299: Occupational Cooperative Work Experience

Units: 1-4
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Employed in a position related to major; complete 60 non-paid or 75 paid hours of work per unit.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
(2201.00)

Cooperative Work Experience is intended for students who are employed in a job directly related to their major. It allows such students the opportunity to apply the theories and skills of their discipline to their position and to undertake new responsibilities and learn new skills at work. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.

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