Department of Counseling Psychology & Human Services
Undergraduate Course Descriptions
HS - Human Services
(Offered through the Counseling, Psychological Studies and Human Services Department)
HS 310 Understanding Diversity, Self-Awareness, And Change (3)
Examination of differing cultural worldviews and the impact culture has on human perceptions, emotions, expectations, and values. Explores the impact of minority status and discrimination on diverse populations. Involves awareness, knowledge, and skill building to help human service professionals be more sensitive to a multicultural clientele.
HS 311 Human Service Practice And Policy (3)
An overview of the history, theoretical perspectives, and target populations of human services, as well as discussion of social policy, current controversies, and trends. Extensive practice of the cognitive, problem solving and APA writing style necessary for professional study.
HS 312 Theory And Practice In Intervention: Counseling/Interviewing Skills (3)
Survey of counseling theories and practices. Provides basic knowledge in helping relationship interviewing techniques and skills necessary for human services practitioners. How diversity plays a role in interviewing skills will be addressed, as well as interviewing techniques for a variety of purposes.
HS 313 Theory And Practice In Intervention: Care Coordination (3)
Identifies and examines the philosophy, process, and procedures that form the basis for wraparound care. Emphasis is on responsibilities, skills, and knowledge necessary for coordinating care for clients with multi-service needs.
HS 314 Theory And Practice In Intervention: Group Process (3)
Introduction to the psychological nature of groups, emphasizing group formation, structure, development, and dynamics within the group process. Students will learn to facilitate groups as well as identify problems and issues that may occur within the group setting.
HS 350 Health Psychology (3-4)
This course introduces the psychological, physical and environmental factors influencing mental health. Topics include: biology, stress, and behavior; nutrition, chronic and life threatening illnesses, and treatment seeking; management of pain; complementary and alternative medicines; and developmental factors. Perceptions, beliefs, and issues around healthcare will also be explored.
HS 418 Ethics And Values In The Human Services (3)
This course examines ethical theory and personal values as they relate to the Human Services professional in the workplace. The goal is to provide a body of information and to teach the student a critical thinking process for resolving the basic issues faced throughout one's career such as accountability in government, human rights, and personal and professional ethics. The ethics codes relevant to Human Services are reviewed. This course is designed to allow the student the opportunity to understand, interpret and apply professional ethics. Satisfies the Ethics and Religious Values GUR.
HS 419 Human Services Management (3)
The role of leadership and management skills in strategies planning, program development, implementation, marketing, and financial oversight of human service agencies.
HS 425 Introduction To Behavioral Health (3)
This course provides an introduction to Behavioral Health and explores Addiction Counseling as a specific area of practice within Psychology and Human Services. Topics covered contain the required number of contact hours for certification with the ACDCPC. Topics covered include Ethics (4 contact hours), Confidentiality (4), Documentation (8), Cross Cultural Diversity (4), and Alaska's History of Chemical Dependency (6).
HS 430 Counseling And Crisis Intervention (3)
This course provides an introduction to Addiction Counseling and Crisis Intervention. Topics covered contain the required number of contact hours for certification with the ACDCPC and include Counseling (16 contact hours), Crisis Intervention (8), and Cross Cultural Diversity (4).
HS 435 Addictions And Co-Occurring Disorders (3)
This course provides an introduction to Addictive Behaviors and Co-Occurring Disorders. Topics covered contain the required number of contact hours for certification with the ACDCPC and include Addictive Behaviors (8 contact hours), Co-Occurring Disorders I and II (16), and Cross Cultural Diversity (4).
HS 440 Wellness And Community Resources (3)
This course provides an introduction to Health Psychology, HIV/AIDS and other Infectious Diseases, and Community Resources. Topics covered contain the required number of contact hours for certification with the ACDCPC and include Recovery, Health, Wellness, and Self-Care (8 contact hours), HIV/AIDS and other Infectious Diseases (8), Introduction to Community Resources (8), and Cross Cultural Diversity (4).
HS 497 Senior Project Proposal Seminar I (4)
This is the first of the three directed study courses on the senior project. Students develop a plan of action with timeline for completing their senior project, select a topic, and defend it. Extensive reading on the topic is required in this course. The paper must include a description of the senior project, scope, purpose, and a review of the literature. Students may concurrently enroll in 497 and 498 in one semester. If concurrently enrolled, the student must complete work required in 497 before beginning work on 498. Prerequisites: LL 201, IS 242, and IS 445.
HS 498 Senior Project Proposal Seminar II (4)
This is the second directed study course on the senior project. Students must complete 497 or, if concurrently enrolled in 497, must complete 497 before working on 498. Revise action plan developed in 497 if necessary, and carry out the project. The written paper must detail method of data collection and analysis. If applicable the proposal must be approved by the Institutional Review Board before data collection. If concurrently enrolled in 498 and 499, students must complete work required in 498 before beginning work on 499. Prerequisites: LL 201, IS 242, IS 445, and AC/BAM/HS/HSA 497 or concurrent enrollment.
HS 499 Senior Project (4)
Third and final directed study course on the senior project requires completing the written paper and making an oral presentation to the Senior Project Committee. If concurrently enrolled in 498 and 499, students must complete work required in 498 before beginning work on 499. Prerequisites: LL 201, IS 242, IS 445, and AC/BAM/HS/HSA 498 or concurrent enrollment.
PY - Psychology
(Offered through the Counseling, Psychological Studies and Human Services Department)
PY 135 Creativity, Madness, and Self expression (4)
What leads to that triumph of the human spirit we call creativity? The psychology of creative self-expression will be explored by understanding the processes of inner passions and conflicts on self-expression. Examples of some of the world's greatest "mad" scientists and "crazy" artists will be provided as case studies. Students will be given specific techniques to recover their creativity from a variety of psychosocial blocks so that they may be able to fully express the writer, poet, actor, painter, musician, or scientist within themselves. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Sciences University requirement, except for Psychology majors.
PY 150 Introduction To Psychology: Adjustment And Change (3-4)
How human beings adjust to the challenges of living as they grow, learn, build relationships, develop careers, and search for personal meaning. Study includes current concepts, theories, and research regarding psychological effects of change, and useful strategies for dealing with the stresses of everyday life. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR.
PY 202 Community Psychology (2)
Students will apply concepts of social psychology to living in a communal setting. This course will explore the creative process as it applies to building relationships, developing sustainable systems of alternative living, understanding the interrelatedness of the Kellogg Campus with other local community systems, and expressing oneself within groups will be explored. Lessons from a wide variety of cultural examples will augment the student's campus living experience.
PY 205 Educational Psychology (4)
Current theory and practice regarding factors that influence student learning and motivation in a classroom environment. Special emphasis is given to theory-based techniques for teachers to facilitate and encourage appropriate academic and social behaviors. Includes observation of teachers in school district classrooms. Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 210 Sophomore Seminar: Introduction To Professional Psychology (4)
Exposure to a broad range of career directions available in psychology as a profession, and extensive practice of the cognitive, problem solving, and writing styles of modern, scientific psychology. Classroom debates, guest speakers, field trips, and individualized projects are used to expand students' understandings of the diversity and challenges of psychological science and practice.
PY 215 Lifespan Human Development (3-4)
Introduction to basic concepts, theories, and issues of human lifespan developmental psychology. Special attention given to the interrelatedness of physical, cognitive, personality, social, cultural, and spiritual components of development. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR. Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 221 Ecopsychology (4)
An introduction to ideas, concepts, and the broad range of literature in the interdisciplinary field of ecopsychology. Will include an examination of how humans and the larger environment interact with each other. There will be an emphasis on helping students think about the interplay of psychology and environment in their own lives.
PY 222 Roots And Wings: Conception Through Adolescence (4)
Psychological, social, and physical development from early childhood through adolescence, with emphasis on aspects of learning, thinking, and socialization, which are of special importance to teachers and caregivers. Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 228 Psychopathology For Movie Lovers (4)
This course is designed to help broaden a person's knowledge and conceptual understanding of abnormal psychology. In particular, individual mental health problems will be explored in the context of society. Two primary catalysts for class discussion and debate will be the framework of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association and the media of movies and documentaries. The course will help foster exploration regarding the issue of what is "normal" vs. "abnormal," along with investigating primary causes and effective treatment approaches. Students are encouraged to examine their own assumptions, beliefs, and fears about "abnormal" behavior. Readings include a current text in abnormal psychology and a compendium of stories regarding what it is like to have a disorder as well as live with someone with a disorder. Prerequisite: PY 150 or permission of instructor.
PY 231 Making Sense Of Statistics: Applications To The Behavioral Sciences (4)
This course provides an introduction to the statistics most commonly used in the behavioral sciences. The basic principles of statistics to be covered include sampling and probability, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. Both parametric and nonparametric statistics will be explored. This course also includes an introduction to the use of PC statistical packages for the behavioral sciences. Prerequisite: MT 101 or placement test. Satisfies the Quantitative Skills GUR.
PY 235 Creativity, Madness, And Self Expression (4)
What leads to that triumph of the human spirit we call creativity? The psychology of creative self-expression will be explored by understanding the processes of inner passions and conflicts on self expression. Examples of some of the world's greatest "mad" scientists and "crazy" artists will be provided as case studies. Students will be given specific techniques to recover their creativity from a variety of psychosocial blocks so that they may be able to fully express the writer, poet, actor, painter, musician, or scientist within themselves. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR.
PY 242 Love, Couples, And Family (4)
Focuses on the stage of life in which major decisions are made regarding marriage, children, and profession. Issues commonly confronting mature, intimate relationships are addressed, including human sexuality, gender roles, marital life styles, heterosexual and homosexual relationships, changing marital patterns, and traditional and contemporary work roles for women and men. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR.
PY 250 Nature And Psychological Well-Being (4)
Students will study the relationship between nature and the human mind by exploring aspects of natural settings shown to be psychologically restorative. Emphasis will be on personal reflection in outdoor settings, as well as research within fields of environmental psychology and wilderness therapy.
PY 260 Intimacy, Relationships, And Sexuality (4)
Explores the psychology of love, sex, and interpersonal relationships. Issues of current interest including sexual orientation, the abortion debate, reproductive technologies, safer sex practices, and gender similarities and differences. Students are encouraged to apply information from this course to the building and maintaining of healthy, loving relationships. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR. Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 300 Methods Of Investigation: Research In Psychology (4)
Introduction to the common methods of research in the behavioral sciences. Quantitative and qualitative approaches are examined along with program evaluation and assessment techniques. Course activities include the writing of a research proposal. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Prerequisite: two courses in Psychology or instructor permission.
PY 305 Individuality And Group Processes (4)
Introduction to the psychological natures of groups, emphasizing group formation, structure, development, and dynamics within and between groups. Systematic examination of leadership theory as it relates to development and integration of group processes. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Prerequisite: two courses in Psychology or instructor permission.
PY 312 Psychology's Symphony: Concepts And Building Blocks (4)
This capstone course provides a comprehensive overview of the field of psychology through a focus on the multiple approaches for understanding human behavior. Students will read selections from the original works of such noted psychologists as Freud, Rogers, Skinner, Piaget, and others, and apply these theories to life experiences. This course is intended to provide students with an integration of previous psychology course work and prepare those who plan to attend graduate school. (formerly PY 110 and PY 360) Prerequisite: four courses in Psychology or instructor permission.
PY 315 Psychology Of Women For Mystery Lovers (4)
This course helps both male and female students to connect their personal, gendered lives with the social and political world in which they live. Students are also encouraged to look beyond the boundaries of their own lives in order to understand (1) the complexity and diversity of women's experiences in terms of race, social class, sexual orientation, age, and cultural differences, and (2) contemporary debate topics such as the social construction of gender, women's and men's communication styles, the earnings gap, sexual harassment, women in the military, and feminist spirituality. Readings include a broad sampling of the wealth of recent scholarship that addresses women's development and women's mental health, as well as contemporary fiction by and about women. (formerly PY 292) Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 320 Personality: Theories And Perspectives (4)
An overview of historical and current models of human personality structure and development, including representative theories from the psychodynamic, type/trait, phenomenological, behavioral, and social cognitive perspectives. Considers implications for counseling and clinical practice. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Prerequisite: PY 150.
PY 325 Social Psychology (4)
A review of classic and more current social psychology research that seeks to reveal patterns of human behavior that may not always be in our conscious awareness. The class looks at issues such as conformity, aggression, self-justification, prejudice, liking and loving, and social cognition. Students will be given opportunities to consider implications from the research discussed to their own particular areas of interest. Students will have the opportunity to participate in social psychology experiments/research. Prerequisite: two courses in Psychology or instructor permission.
PY 328 Therapeutic Mindfulness: Theory And Practice (4)
Using current research on the value of mindfulness exercises as an adjunct to more mainstream therapies, students will examine the use of mindfulness exercises from theoretical, practical, and experiential points of view. The class will culminate in a weekend mindfulness retreat at the Kellogg campus.
PY 330 Psychology Of Substance Use And Dependency (4)
Cultural norms, values, and attitudes regarding chemical dependency. Study of substance abuse in our society and how that abuse impacts individuals, families, and communities. (formerly HS 340) Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 333 Psychology Of Spirituality And Religion (4)
This course provides an introduction to the psychology of the spiritual and religious life of the individual. The psychological nature and issues involved in spirituality and religion will be explored as they are experienced and expressed across the life span. Examples of issues and topics covered include the nature of religion and spirituality, religious socialization, religious experience, morality and values, attitudes and outlook on life, and the role of religion and spirituality in coping and adjustment as well as mental health and counseling. Prerequisites: two courses in Psychology or instructor permission. Satisfies the Ethics and Religious Values GUR.
PY 335 Creativity, Madness, And Self Expression (4)
What leads to that triumph of the human spirit we call creativity? The psychology of creative self-expression will be explored by understanding the processes of inner passions and conflicts on self expression. Examples of some of the world's greatest "mad" scientists and "crazy" artists will be provided as case studies. Students will be given specific techniques to recover their creativity from a variety of psychosocial blocks so that they may be able to fully express the writer, poet, actor, painter, musician, or scientist within themselves. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR.
PY 340 Going To Extremes: Abnormal Psychology (3-4)
Psychological, sociocultural, and biological factors related to dysfunctional personalities and related behavioral pathologies. Historical and recent definitions of, attitudes toward, and treatments of abnormality. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Prerequisite: PY 150.
PY 345 Dynamics Of Counseling (4)
Survey of counseling theories and practices, as well as legal and ethical issues related to the field. Provides basic knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level practitioners and a foundation for graduate level coursework in counseling psychology. Prerequisites: PY 150 (or demonstrated competency in writing).
PY 350 Psychotherapeutic Uses Of The Wilderness (4)
Understanding and critically evaluating the theories, techniques, and practical applications of wilderness therapy; exploring ways in which humans and the nonhuman natural world can interweave in order to improve mental health. (formerly PY 270) Prerequisite: PY 150 and PY 250, or instructor permission.
PY 355 Positive Psychology (4)
Although the discipline of Positive Psychology was inaugurated as recently as 1998, the study of psychological factors that make life "worth living" is already flourishing. This course explores human strengths-our own and others'. Human strengths are the qualities and processes that promote life satisfaction and well-being while preventing dissatisfaction and mental illness. Specifically, this course covers the role that strengths play in a variety of areas, including personality, aging, gender differences, intimate relationships, creativity, and decision-making, and then relating personal well-being to global and societal issues. It also includes constructive criticism and future directions for this emerging discipline. Prerequisite: PY 150.
PY 460 Intimacy, Relationships And Sexuality (4)
Explores the psychology of love, sex, and interpersonal relationships. Issues of current interest including sexual orientation, the abortion debate, reproductive technologies, safer sex practices, and gender similarities and differences. Students are encouraged to apply information from this course to the building and maintaining of healthy, loving relationships. Satisfies the Social/Behavioral Science GUR. Prerequisite: PY 150 or instructor permission.
PY 490 Senior Seminar: Directed Study In Psychology And Human Services (4)
Individualized, concentrated study of topics in psychology. Students conduct their own field and/or library investigations and participate in weekly seminar presentations and discussions of their discoveries. Prerequisite: Senior status or instructor permission.
PY 498 Senior Project Proposal (4)
Students determine their own senior project themes, scope, and methods within domain of theoretical, applied, or experimental psychology, with assistance of department Senior Project Coordinator. Project proposals are presented for approval, orally and in writing, to a Senior Project Committee including the Project Coordinator and two other faculty members of the student's choice, one from Psychology and the other from another department. Prerequisite: Senior status.
PY 499 Senior Project (4-12)
Students implement and assess the activities specified in their senior project proposals, and present completed projects, orally and in writing, to their Project Committees and at a Psychology Student Colloquium. Student must complete at least 8 hours of Senior Project coursework. Prerequisite: PY 498.
PY 380, 480 Directed Study (1-4)
Individual study in a given field under the guidance of a regular faculty member and by permission only.
PY 384 Junior Portfolio (1)
This seminar course provides the psychology student with assistance in writing, compiling, creating, and producing their junior portfolio. This course is to be taken during the junior year. Course goal: successful completion of the junior portfolio. Course prerequisite: Junior standing. CR/NC grades only.
PY 285, 385, 485 Field Experience (1-12)
Practical work experience in a given area of concentration under the cooperative guidance of a faculty member and an on-the-job supervisor.
PY 290, 390 Seminar (1-4)
Small groups meet with faculty members for in-depth study and discussion of a specific topic of common interest. Appropriate course descriptions are published as seminars are offered.
PY 292, 392, 492 Special Topics (1-4)
Special topics in various fields are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed.
