2019-2020 BSC Catalog

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
219
PY 177, 277, 377, 477 Special Topics in Psychology (1)
An exploration of a selected topic in psychology. Prerequisites: PY 101 for PY 277; PY
101 and instructor consent for PY 377 and PY 477.
PY 202 Sleep and Dreams (1)
An investigation of the fundamental human need for sleep, including exploration of
proposed purposes for dreams. Topics include how sleep is scientifically defined and
measured, what happens when we do not sleep, current theories about the need for sleep,
common sleep disruptions and disorders, and the structure and utility of dreams. Topics
are examined on the individual, group, and societal levels. Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 204 QA Statistics for Research (1)
A laboratory course designed to introduce students to experimental research design,
statistical theory and techniques, and computer data analysis. Laboratory required. Open
only to psychology majors. A Quantitative Analysis designated course.
PY 205 Introduction to Forensic Psychology (1)
An examination of forensic psychology, or the application of psychological principles to
legal matters. Topics include criminal behavior, victimization, criminal investigation
(e.g., criminal profiling, lie detection, eyewitness testimony), forensic assessment, and
jury selection and deliberation. Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 211 Social Psychology (1)
An introduction to concepts, theories, and methods of social psychology. Topics include
the self, person perception, persuasion, conformity, obedience, stereotypes and prejudice,
aggression, prosocial behavior, group processes, and attraction and relationships.
Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 217 Drugs, Brain, and Behavior (1)
A study of licit and illicit drugs (focusing on drugs of abuse) examining their effects on
the brain and on behavior. Topics may also include addiction and treatment, history of
drug use, and the influence of drugs on the unborn child, the individual, and on society.
Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 219 Psychology of Aging (1)
A comprehensive overview of psychological aspects of aging, examining intellectual,
social, cognitive, and physical development in adulthood with special emphasis on
the last years of life. Specific topics include age-related changes in
sensation/perception, cognition, and personality, as well as application to late-life
psychopathology. Prerequisite: PY 101.
PY 224 Developmental Psychology (1)
Explores the science of human development across the lifespan, from conception through
death. The course examines theories and research of physical development, sexual
development, cognition, personality, language, intelligence, and social development.
Prerequisite: PY 101.
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2019-2020