Psychology

Be a part of an industry that is everywhere and is making a huge impact on our society. Explore Graceland’s psychology major and enroll today.

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Have a Positive Effect on Someone's Life With a Degree in Psychology

A psychology major from Graceland equips students to be proficient in not only the theoretical and experimental but also the applied and clinical aspects of the psychology field. Psychologists are employed in many fields including the military, government, education, and sports, as a therapist, professor, industrial psychologist, military psychologist, counselor, and sports psychologists, among many other fields. Psychologists are everywhere and do almost everything and they are an integral part of our society.

Graceland's psychology major program regularly integrates its offerings with other related departments across the university including biology and biochemistry, movement and sport science, sociology and human services, computer science and robotics, and art and music — many of which you could double major or minor in. In fact, we do have many students who double major in these areas and go on to careers in the areas of psychological medicine, social work, and art and movement therapy, among others. Additionally, psychology is thoroughly integrated with the university’s counseling services, and members of those services are regularly involved in teaching and advising our students alongside our core faculty.

Offerings
Major, Minor
Field of Study
Social Sciences
Format
Lamoni Campus
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The Psychology program is amazing. The professors are dedicated to helping us by explaining things in detail so we really understand, answering questions, and treating us as adults. It is an amazing atmosphere to be in.
Grace Testerman '25 Psychology
Curriculum
  • BA Degree – Psychology Major

    In addition to the general education requirements, majors in Psychology must complete a 34 or more semester hours in Psychology and 3 semester hours of supporting courses.
    Required courses (28 s.h.)

    Elective block: Take an additional 6 semester hours from:

    Courses Offered
    • MATH1370Statistics for Sciences
      MATH1370 Statistics for Sciences - 3 s.h.

      Data analysis and measures of central tendency, dispersion, and correlation. Introduction to probability. Estimation and hypothesis testing. Bivariate regression. ANOVA. Introduction to nonparametric techniques. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    • PHED3130Sports Psychology (also PSYC3130)
      PHED3130 Sports Psychology (also PSYC3130) - 3 s.h.

      An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.

    • PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
      PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

      An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    • PSYC2250Developmental Psychology
      PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

      The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    • PSYC2320Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320)
      PSYC2320 Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) - 3 s.h.

      A social science approach to relationships and attraction with a focus on marriage and the family unit. Topics include dating, marital roles, parenting, and interaction patterns. Explores disruptions such as divorce and domestic violence as well as clinical and community-level interventions from a systems perspective. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • PSYC3130Sports Psychology (also PHED3130)
      PSYC3130 Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) - 3 s.h.

      An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.

    • PSYC3300Sensation and Perception
      PSYC3300 Sensation and Perception - 3 s.h.

      Consideration of how humans receive and interpret information from their environment through receptor systems and brain mechanisms. Including theories of perception, biology of sensory and perceptual systems, and practical applications of findings from research. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3310Social Psychology (also SOCI3310)
      PSYC3310 Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) - 3 s.h.

      The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    • PSYC3330Behavioral Neuroscience
      PSYC3330 Behavioral Neuroscience - 3 s.h.

      Examination of the biological substrates of behavior. Topics include synaptic transmission and patterns of neural activity, sleep and arousal, learning and memory, motivation, emotion, neurological diseases, traumatic brain injuries. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3340Personality
      PSYC3340 Personality - 3 s.h.

      A study of personality from dispositional, psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral perspectives and of the application of personality perspectives to current issues. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology.

    • PSYC3370Cross Cultural Psychology
      PSYC3370 Cross Cultural Psychology - 3 s.h.

      Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Prerequisite: PSYC1300. ELO4 Global Learning - World Citizenship, ELO4 Global Learning - Equality and Peace.

    • PSYC3380Abnormal Psychology
      PSYC3380 Abnormal Psychology - 3 s.h.

      A study of the disorders outlined in the current diagnostic statistical manual. Emphasis will be on etiology, symptoms, and methods of treatment. Prerequisite: PSYC1300.

    • PSYC3390Cognitive Psychology
      PSYC3390 Cognitive Psychology - 3 s.h.

      Research and theory in areas of cognitive psychology, including attention; memory acquisition, storage, and retrieval; language comprehension; and problem solving. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is only offered every other year.

    • PSYC3500Principles of Learning
      PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

      Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3510Research Methods (also SOCI3510)
      PSYC3510 Research Methods (also SOCI3510) - 3 s.h.

      A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    • PSYC3520Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods)
      PSYC3520 Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods) - 3 s.h.

      Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510 and 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    • PSYC4250Professional Seminar
      PSYC4250 Professional Seminar - 1 s.h.

      Examination of professional and ethical issues, as well as careers and graduate education in psychology. Prerequisite: Senior standing and Psychology major.

    • PSYC4350History and Systems
      PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

      A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours in psychology.

    • PSYC4360Senior Internship
      PSYC4360 Senior Internship - 1-4 s.h.

      Placement with external agency for application of knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Pre-requisites: Psychology major, senior standing, 2.0 cumulative GPA, 3.0 GPA in the major, consent of supervising faculty. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Completion of the Senior Internship application with approval from agency sponsor and supervising faculty.

    • PSYC4430Theory and Practice of Counseling
      PSYC4430 Theory and Practice of Counseling - 3 s.h.

      A course designed to explore characteristics of counselors, characteristics of clients, basic counseling techniques, and current theories of counseling. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 6 additional hours of psychology.

    • SOCI2320Marriage and the Family (also PSYC2320)
      SOCI2320 Marriage and the Family (also PSYC2320) - 3 s.h.

      A social science approach to relationships and attraction with a focus on marriage and the family unit. Topics include dating, marital roles, parenting, and interaction patterns. Explores disruptions such as divorce and domestic violence as well as clinical and community-level interventions from a systems perspective.

    • SOCI3310Social Psychology (also PSYC3310)
      SOCI3310 Social Psychology (also PSYC3310) - 3 s.h.

      The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    • SOCI3510Research Methods (also PSYC3510)
      SOCI3510 Research Methods (also PSYC3510) - 3 s.h.

      A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    MATH1370Statistics for Sciences PHED3130Sports Psychology (also PSYC3130) PSYC1300Introductory Psychology PSYC2250Developmental Psychology PSYC2320Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) PSYC3130Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) PSYC3300Sensation and Perception PSYC3310Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) PSYC3330Behavioral Neuroscience PSYC3340Personality PSYC3370Cross Cultural Psychology PSYC3380Abnormal Psychology PSYC3390Cognitive Psychology PSYC3500Principles of Learning PSYC3510Research Methods (also SOCI3510) PSYC3520Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods) PSYC4250Professional Seminar PSYC4350History and Systems PSYC4360Senior Internship PSYC4430Theory and Practice of Counseling SOCI2320Marriage and the Family (also PSYC2320) SOCI3310Social Psychology (also PSYC3310) SOCI3510Research Methods (also PSYC3510)
    Course Descriptions
    MATH1370 Statistics for Sciences - 3 s.h.

    Data analysis and measures of central tendency, dispersion, and correlation. Introduction to probability. Estimation and hypothesis testing. Bivariate regression. ANOVA. Introduction to nonparametric techniques. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    PHED3130 Sports Psychology (also PSYC3130) - 3 s.h.

    An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.

    PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

    An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

    The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    PSYC2320 Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) - 3 s.h.

    A social science approach to relationships and attraction with a focus on marriage and the family unit. Topics include dating, marital roles, parenting, and interaction patterns. Explores disruptions such as divorce and domestic violence as well as clinical and community-level interventions from a systems perspective. +This course is only offered every other year.

    PSYC3130 Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) - 3 s.h.

    An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.

    PSYC3300 Sensation and Perception - 3 s.h.

    Consideration of how humans receive and interpret information from their environment through receptor systems and brain mechanisms. Including theories of perception, biology of sensory and perceptual systems, and practical applications of findings from research. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3310 Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) - 3 s.h.

    The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    PSYC3330 Behavioral Neuroscience - 3 s.h.

    Examination of the biological substrates of behavior. Topics include synaptic transmission and patterns of neural activity, sleep and arousal, learning and memory, motivation, emotion, neurological diseases, traumatic brain injuries. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3340 Personality - 3 s.h.

    A study of personality from dispositional, psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral perspectives and of the application of personality perspectives to current issues. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology.

    PSYC3370 Cross Cultural Psychology - 3 s.h.

    Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Prerequisite: PSYC1300. ELO4 Global Learning - World Citizenship, ELO4 Global Learning - Equality and Peace.

    PSYC3380 Abnormal Psychology - 3 s.h.

    A study of the disorders outlined in the current diagnostic statistical manual. Emphasis will be on etiology, symptoms, and methods of treatment. Prerequisite: PSYC1300.

    PSYC3390 Cognitive Psychology - 3 s.h.

    Research and theory in areas of cognitive psychology, including attention; memory acquisition, storage, and retrieval; language comprehension; and problem solving. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is only offered every other year.

    PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

    Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3510 Research Methods (also SOCI3510) - 3 s.h.

    A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    PSYC3520 Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods) - 3 s.h.

    Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510 and 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    PSYC4250 Professional Seminar - 1 s.h.

    Examination of professional and ethical issues, as well as careers and graduate education in psychology. Prerequisite: Senior standing and Psychology major.

    PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

    A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours in psychology.

    PSYC4360 Senior Internship - 1-4 s.h.

    Placement with external agency for application of knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Pre-requisites: Psychology major, senior standing, 2.0 cumulative GPA, 3.0 GPA in the major, consent of supervising faculty. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Completion of the Senior Internship application with approval from agency sponsor and supervising faculty.

    PSYC4430 Theory and Practice of Counseling - 3 s.h.

    A course designed to explore characteristics of counselors, characteristics of clients, basic counseling techniques, and current theories of counseling. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 6 additional hours of psychology.

    SOCI2320 Marriage and the Family (also PSYC2320) - 3 s.h.

    A social science approach to relationships and attraction with a focus on marriage and the family unit. Topics include dating, marital roles, parenting, and interaction patterns. Explores disruptions such as divorce and domestic violence as well as clinical and community-level interventions from a systems perspective.

    SOCI3310 Social Psychology (also PSYC3310) - 3 s.h.

    The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    SOCI3510 Research Methods (also PSYC3510) - 3 s.h.

    A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

  • Psychology Minor

    A minor in Psychology consists of 18 semester hours in psychology including PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology, plus 9 additional semester hours from the list of required psychology core courses and 6 additional semester hours from the list of psychology electives.

    Courses Offered
    • PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
      PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

      An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
    Course Descriptions
    PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

    An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

  • Teacher Certification in Psychology

    ONLY FOR NON-PSYCHOLOGY MAJORS WHO WANT A SECONDARY PSYCHOLOGY ENDORSEMENT (5-12): Non-Psychology Majors desiring a secondary Psychology endorsement (5-12) in Iowa must complete the Secondary Education Program (with SOSC3390 Methods of Teaching Social Studies as the appropriate methods course), a major in a secondary teaching field, and 24 s.h. in Psychology including the following courses:

    Or a student may take 30 s.h. in the broad area of Social Sciences to include 15 s.h. in Psychology including the following courses:

    Courses Offered
    • PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
      PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

      An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    • PSYC3310Social Psychology (also SOCI3310)
      PSYC3310 Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) - 3 s.h.

      The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    • PSYC3340Personality
      PSYC3340 Personality - 3 s.h.

      A study of personality from dispositional, psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral perspectives and of the application of personality perspectives to current issues. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology.

    • PSYC3500Principles of Learning
      PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

      Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3510Research Methods (also SOCI3510)
      PSYC3510 Research Methods (also SOCI3510) - 3 s.h.

      A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    • PSYC4350History and Systems
      PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

      A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours in psychology.

    • SOSC3390Methods of Teaching Social Studies
      SOSC3390 Methods of Teaching Social Studies - 3 s.h.

      Discussions of the general and specific objectives of social studies in the secondary school system, the materials and resources available, techniques in teaching the social studies, types of curricula, and methods of evaluation. Prerequisites: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program.

    PSYC1300Introductory Psychology PSYC3310Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) PSYC3340Personality PSYC3500Principles of Learning PSYC3510Research Methods (also SOCI3510) PSYC4350History and Systems SOSC3390Methods of Teaching Social Studies
    Course Descriptions
    PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

    An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    PSYC3310 Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) - 3 s.h.

    The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    PSYC3340 Personality - 3 s.h.

    A study of personality from dispositional, psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral perspectives and of the application of personality perspectives to current issues. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology.

    PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

    Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3510 Research Methods (also SOCI3510) - 3 s.h.

    A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

    A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours in psychology.

    SOSC3390 Methods of Teaching Social Studies - 3 s.h.

    Discussions of the general and specific objectives of social studies in the secondary school system, the materials and resources available, techniques in teaching the social studies, types of curricula, and methods of evaluation. Prerequisites: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program.

  • Course list - Psychology
    Courses Offered
    • PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
      PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

      An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    • PSYC1400Introduction to Forensic Psychology (also CRMJ1400)
      PSYC1400 Introduction to Forensic Psychology (also CRMJ1400) - 3 s.h.

      Explores the differing, yet varied facets of the field of forensic psychology including landmark legal cases relevant to psychology, potential careers in forensic psychology, police psychology, expert testimony, forensic psychological assessment, psychopathy, homeland security, ethics, correctional psychology, and issues in working in the juvenile justice system.

    • PSYC2000Individual Study
      PSYC2000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • PSYC2250Developmental Psychology
      PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

      The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    • PSYC2320Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320)
      PSYC2320 Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) - 3 s.h.

      A social science approach to relationships and attraction with a focus on marriage and the family unit. Topics include dating, marital roles, parenting, and interaction patterns. Explores disruptions such as divorce and domestic violence as well as clinical and community-level interventions from a systems perspective. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • PSYC3000Individual Study
      PSYC3000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • PSYC3130Sports Psychology (also PHED3130)
      PSYC3130 Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) - 3 s.h.

      An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.

    • PSYC3300Sensation and Perception
      PSYC3300 Sensation and Perception - 3 s.h.

      Consideration of how humans receive and interpret information from their environment through receptor systems and brain mechanisms. Including theories of perception, biology of sensory and perceptual systems, and practical applications of findings from research. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3310Social Psychology (also SOCI3310)
      PSYC3310 Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) - 3 s.h.

      The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    • PSYC3330Behavioral Neuroscience
      PSYC3330 Behavioral Neuroscience - 3 s.h.

      Examination of the biological substrates of behavior. Topics include synaptic transmission and patterns of neural activity, sleep and arousal, learning and memory, motivation, emotion, neurological diseases, traumatic brain injuries. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3340Personality
      PSYC3340 Personality - 3 s.h.

      A study of personality from dispositional, psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral perspectives and of the application of personality perspectives to current issues. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology.

    • PSYC3370Cross Cultural Psychology
      PSYC3370 Cross Cultural Psychology - 3 s.h.

      Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Prerequisite: PSYC1300. ELO4 Global Learning - World Citizenship, ELO4 Global Learning - Equality and Peace.

    • PSYC3380Abnormal Psychology
      PSYC3380 Abnormal Psychology - 3 s.h.

      A study of the disorders outlined in the current diagnostic statistical manual. Emphasis will be on etiology, symptoms, and methods of treatment. Prerequisite: PSYC1300.

    • PSYC3390Cognitive Psychology
      PSYC3390 Cognitive Psychology - 3 s.h.

      Research and theory in areas of cognitive psychology, including attention; memory acquisition, storage, and retrieval; language comprehension; and problem solving. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is only offered every other year.

    • PSYC3440Psychology of the Workplace
      PSYC3440 Psychology of the Workplace - 3 s.h.

      Psychological theory applied to problems of work: workplace design; group behavior; labor-management relations; leadership; employee selection and retention; psychological evaluation of workers.

    • PSYC3500Principles of Learning
      PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

      Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    • PSYC3510Research Methods (also SOCI3510)
      PSYC3510 Research Methods (also SOCI3510) - 3 s.h.

      A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    • PSYC3520Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods)
      PSYC3520 Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods) - 3 s.h.

      Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510 and 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    • PSYC3900Topics in Psychology
      PSYC3900 Topics in Psychology - 1-3 s.h.

      In-depth study of topics in the field of psychology. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Prerequisite: PSYC1300.

    • PSYC4000Individual Study
      PSYC4000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • PSYC4250Professional Seminar
      PSYC4250 Professional Seminar - 1 s.h.

      Examination of professional and ethical issues, as well as careers and graduate education in psychology. Prerequisite: Senior standing and Psychology major.

    • PSYC4350History and Systems
      PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

      A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours in psychology.

    • PSYC4360Senior Internship
      PSYC4360 Senior Internship - 1-4 s.h.

      Placement with external agency for application of knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Pre-requisites: Psychology major, senior standing, 2.0 cumulative GPA, 3.0 GPA in the major, consent of supervising faculty. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Completion of the Senior Internship application with approval from agency sponsor and supervising faculty.

    • PSYC4430Theory and Practice of Counseling
      PSYC4430 Theory and Practice of Counseling - 3 s.h.

      A course designed to explore characteristics of counselors, characteristics of clients, basic counseling techniques, and current theories of counseling. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 6 additional hours of psychology.

    PSYC1300Introductory Psychology PSYC1400Introduction to Forensic Psychology (also CRMJ1400) PSYC2000Individual Study PSYC2250Developmental Psychology PSYC2320Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) PSYC3000Individual Study PSYC3130Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) PSYC3300Sensation and Perception PSYC3310Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) PSYC3330Behavioral Neuroscience PSYC3340Personality PSYC3370Cross Cultural Psychology PSYC3380Abnormal Psychology PSYC3390Cognitive Psychology PSYC3440Psychology of the Workplace PSYC3500Principles of Learning PSYC3510Research Methods (also SOCI3510) PSYC3520Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods) PSYC3900Topics in Psychology PSYC4000Individual Study PSYC4250Professional Seminar PSYC4350History and Systems PSYC4360Senior Internship PSYC4430Theory and Practice of Counseling
    Course Descriptions
    PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

    An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    PSYC1400 Introduction to Forensic Psychology (also CRMJ1400) - 3 s.h.

    Explores the differing, yet varied facets of the field of forensic psychology including landmark legal cases relevant to psychology, potential careers in forensic psychology, police psychology, expert testimony, forensic psychological assessment, psychopathy, homeland security, ethics, correctional psychology, and issues in working in the juvenile justice system.

    PSYC2000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

    The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    PSYC2320 Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) - 3 s.h.

    A social science approach to relationships and attraction with a focus on marriage and the family unit. Topics include dating, marital roles, parenting, and interaction patterns. Explores disruptions such as divorce and domestic violence as well as clinical and community-level interventions from a systems perspective. +This course is only offered every other year.

    PSYC3000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    PSYC3130 Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) - 3 s.h.

    An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.

    PSYC3300 Sensation and Perception - 3 s.h.

    Consideration of how humans receive and interpret information from their environment through receptor systems and brain mechanisms. Including theories of perception, biology of sensory and perceptual systems, and practical applications of findings from research. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3310 Social Psychology (also SOCI3310) - 3 s.h.

    The study of how people think, feel, and behave in social situations. Attention given to research and application to social perception, interaction, and influence. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 or SOCI1300.

    PSYC3330 Behavioral Neuroscience - 3 s.h.

    Examination of the biological substrates of behavior. Topics include synaptic transmission and patterns of neural activity, sleep and arousal, learning and memory, motivation, emotion, neurological diseases, traumatic brain injuries. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3340 Personality - 3 s.h.

    A study of personality from dispositional, psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral perspectives and of the application of personality perspectives to current issues. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology.

    PSYC3370 Cross Cultural Psychology - 3 s.h.

    Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Prerequisite: PSYC1300. ELO4 Global Learning - World Citizenship, ELO4 Global Learning - Equality and Peace.

    PSYC3380 Abnormal Psychology - 3 s.h.

    A study of the disorders outlined in the current diagnostic statistical manual. Emphasis will be on etiology, symptoms, and methods of treatment. Prerequisite: PSYC1300.

    PSYC3390 Cognitive Psychology - 3 s.h.

    Research and theory in areas of cognitive psychology, including attention; memory acquisition, storage, and retrieval; language comprehension; and problem solving. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is only offered every other year.

    PSYC3440 Psychology of the Workplace - 3 s.h.

    Psychological theory applied to problems of work: workplace design; group behavior; labor-management relations; leadership; employee selection and retention; psychological evaluation of workers.

    PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

    Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 3 additional hours of psychology. This course is offered every other year.

    PSYC3510 Research Methods (also SOCI3510) - 3 s.h.

    A survey of the principles and practices of social research, including research ethics, experimental design, surveys, in-depth interviews, content analysis, participant observation, and field studies. Students also learn to write in scientific journal style. Prerequisite: 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    PSYC3520 Research Methods Two (also SOCI3540 Research Methods) - 3 s.h.

    Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510 and 6 additional hours of psychology, sociology, or criminal justice.

    PSYC3900 Topics in Psychology - 1-3 s.h.

    In-depth study of topics in the field of psychology. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Prerequisite: PSYC1300.

    PSYC4000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    PSYC4250 Professional Seminar - 1 s.h.

    Examination of professional and ethical issues, as well as careers and graduate education in psychology. Prerequisite: Senior standing and Psychology major.

    PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

    A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours in psychology.

    PSYC4360 Senior Internship - 1-4 s.h.

    Placement with external agency for application of knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Pre-requisites: Psychology major, senior standing, 2.0 cumulative GPA, 3.0 GPA in the major, consent of supervising faculty. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Completion of the Senior Internship application with approval from agency sponsor and supervising faculty.

    PSYC4430 Theory and Practice of Counseling - 3 s.h.

    A course designed to explore characteristics of counselors, characteristics of clients, basic counseling techniques, and current theories of counseling. Prerequisite: PSYC1300 and 6 additional hours of psychology.

Exceptional Faculty
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Career Growth Ahead

As we mentioned above, your degree in psychology can take you in so many different directions. Our students go on to work in the military, in sports, in law enforcement, in education, in art, etc. A psychology major from Graceland University can help to prepare you for careers such as:

  • Counseling psychologists
  • Social Worker
  • School Counselor
  • Case Manager
  • Human Resources
  • Child Care Worker
  • Correctional Psychologist
  • Sports Psychologist
  • Forensic Psychologist
  • Psychology Professor
  • Counseling

       …and many other exciting fields.

Psychology Major by the Numbers

Employed in Field

51%

Psychology graduates

Estimated Salary

$65,000

Psychology graduates

Why Graceland's Bachelor's Degree in Psychology?

Psychology students at Graceland are encouraged to create their own unique niche in this diverse and fascinating field. Many will do that by double majoring or minoring in one of our many other degree programs. At Graceland, extensive research training is a hallmark of the program and it emphasizes individual student creativity in reaching learning goals. 

Through a two-course sequence in research methods, students design and carry out individual research projects which are reviewed by the Institutional Review Board.  Through this process, students collect, analyze, and interpret data, and they acquire skills useful in many evidence-based fields. Graceland’s service ethic is well represented in psychology’s course offerings.  Our compact department offers a full suite of courses in applied areas that rivals the curricula of much larger departments.

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Tuition & Aid

99% of students on the Lamoni campus receive financial aid.

As you consider college, you want a simple, easy-to-understand formula designed to ensure that the one-of-a-kind Graceland Experience is within reach for your family. Undergraduate tuition includes our unique Transformational Leadership major, and we offer generous financial aid and scholarships to all of our students, making Graceland as affordable, if not moreso, than most public universities.

Find out more!
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