We’re transforming our Lamoni campus undergraduate tuition for 2024-25 to $19,950.

Find out more!
×

Psychology

“Graceland University’s psychology program allowed me to study a wide range of concepts and ideas that has prepared me for many aspects of my continuing education in the health field. With my professors’ support and counsel, I have a greater ability to see the entirety of the patients who cross my path. “

Hallie Linhart ’19

pattern
Learn more about our program...

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. Psychologists are everywhere and do almost everything.

Graceland's psychology department 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. We 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
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:

    Support courses:

    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. Prerequisite: 1 year high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

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

      Analysis and application of psychological and sociological data related to the participation of the coach and the athlete in competitive sports programs. Prerequisites: Junior standing or instructor's permission.

    • 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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    • 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

    • 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.

      Analysis and application of psychological and sociological data related to the participation of the coach and the athlete in competitive sports programs. Prerequisites: Junior standing or instructor's permission.

    • 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. Goal 1C. +This course is only 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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C.

    • 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, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 +This course is only 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. Goal 1C

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

      Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Goal 4, 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: Five semester hours in Psychology. Goal 1C

    • 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. Goal 1C +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. Goal 1C +This course is only 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: MATH1370.

    • PSYC3520Research Methods Two
      PSYC3520 Research Methods Two - 3 s.h.

      Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510, psychology major.

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

      Examination of professional and ethical issues, as well as careers and graduate education in psychology. Students will procure a professional internship in the field, which should be completed during the following semester. Prerequisite: Psychology major and junior standing.

    • 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: 5 semester hours in psychology.

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

      Students will work with their professor in PSYC3520 to identify an internship where they can apply knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Prerequisite: psychology major, junior standing, instructor’s consent.

    • 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. Goal 1C

    • 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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C

    • 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: MATH1370.

    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 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. Prerequisite: 1 year high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

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

    Analysis and application of psychological and sociological data related to the participation of the coach and the athlete in competitive sports programs. Prerequisites: Junior standing or instructor's permission.

    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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    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

    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.

    Analysis and application of psychological and sociological data related to the participation of the coach and the athlete in competitive sports programs. Prerequisites: Junior standing or instructor's permission.

    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. Goal 1C. +This course is only 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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C.

    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, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 +This course is only 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. Goal 1C

    PSYC3370 Cross Cultural Psychology - 3 s.h.

    Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Goal 4, 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: Five semester hours in Psychology. Goal 1C

    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. Goal 1C +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. Goal 1C +This course is only 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: MATH1370.

    PSYC3520 Research Methods Two - 3 s.h.

    Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510, psychology major.

    PSYC4250 Professional Seminar - 1 s.h.

    Examination of professional and ethical issues, as well as careers and graduate education in psychology. Students will procure a professional internship in the field, which should be completed during the following semester. Prerequisite: Psychology major and junior standing.

    PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

    A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 5 semester hours in psychology.

    PSYC4360 Senior Internship - 1-4 s.h.

    Students will work with their professor in PSYC3520 to identify an internship where they can apply knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Prerequisite: psychology major, junior standing, instructor’s consent.

    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. Goal 1C

    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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C

    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: MATH1370.

  • 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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

  • 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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    • 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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C.

    • 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. Goal 1C

    • 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. Goal 1C +This course is only 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: MATH1370.

    • 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: 5 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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C.

    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. Goal 1C

    PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

    Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300. Goal 1C +This course is only 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: MATH1370.

    PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

    A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 5 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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    • PSYC2000Individual Study (Goal 1C)
      PSYC2000 Individual Study (Goal 1C) - 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

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

      Analysis and application of psychological and sociological data related to the participation of the coach and the athlete in competitive sports programs. Prerequisites: Junior standing or instructor's permission.

    • 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. Goal 1C. +This course is only 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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C.

    • 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, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 +This course is only 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. Goal 1C

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

      Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Goal 4, 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: Five semester hours in Psychology. Goal 1C

    • 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. Goal 1C +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. Goal 1C

    • 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. Goal 1C +This course is only 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: MATH1370.

    • PSYC3520Research Methods Two
      PSYC3520 Research Methods Two - 3 s.h.

      Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510, psychology major.

    • 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. Goal 1C

    • 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. Students will procure a professional internship in the field, which should be completed during the following semester. Prerequisite: Psychology major and junior standing.

    • 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: 5 semester hours in psychology.

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

      Students will work with their professor in PSYC3520 to identify an internship where they can apply knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Prerequisite: psychology major, junior standing, instructor’s consent.

    • 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. Goal 1C

    PSYC1300Introductory Psychology PSYC2000Individual Study (Goal 1C) PSYC2250Developmental Psychology PSYC2320Marriage and the Family (also SOCI2320) PSYC3000Individual Study (Goal 1C) 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 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. Goal 1C, ELO5 Social Science - Innovation

    PSYC2000 Individual Study (Goal 1C) - 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

    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 (Goal 1C) - 1-3 s.h.
    PSYC3130 Sports Psychology (also PHED3130) - 3 s.h.

    Analysis and application of psychological and sociological data related to the participation of the coach and the athlete in competitive sports programs. Prerequisites: Junior standing or instructor's permission.

    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. Goal 1C. +This course is only 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: SOCI1300 or PSYC1300 (grade of C or better). Goal 1C.

    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, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisites: PSYC1300 +This course is only 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. Goal 1C

    PSYC3370 Cross Cultural Psychology - 3 s.h.

    Study of psychological theories and empirical findings relating to variations in cultures. Goal 4, 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: Five semester hours in Psychology. Goal 1C

    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. Goal 1C +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. Goal 1C

    PSYC3500 Principles of Learning - 3 s.h.

    Explores a variety of theories of learning. Considers both conceptual and applied aspects of learning. Prerequisite: PSYC1300. Goal 1C +This course is only 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: MATH1370.

    PSYC3520 Research Methods Two - 3 s.h.

    Development and implementation of an original research project. Prerequisite: PSYC3510, psychology major.

    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. Goal 1C

    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. Students will procure a professional internship in the field, which should be completed during the following semester. Prerequisite: Psychology major and junior standing.

    PSYC4350 History and Systems - 3 s.h.

    A historical analysis of systematic foundations in psychology. Includes Structuralism, Functionalism, Behaviorism, Gestalt psychology, and Psychoanalysis. Prerequisite: 5 semester hours in psychology.

    PSYC4360 Senior Internship - 1-4 s.h.

    Students will work with their professor in PSYC3520 to identify an internship where they can apply knowledge, theory, and skills from the major in a professional setting. Students should enroll in 1 credit for every 50 hours that will be volunteered in the sponsor organization (with a maximum of 4 credits). Prerequisite: psychology major, junior standing, instructor’s consent.

    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. Goal 1C

Exceptional Faculty
header pattern
Career Growth Ahead

An psychology major from Graceland University can help to prepare you for these careers:

  • Counseling psychologists
  • Social Worker
  • School Counselor
  • Case Manager
  • Human Resources
  • Child Care Worker

       …and many other exciting fields.

Employed in Field

51%

Psychology graduates

Estimated Salary

$65,000

Psychology graduates

Why Graceland

  • Psychology students at Graceland are encouraged to create their own unique niche in this diverse and fascinating field.
  • 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, 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.
header pattern
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!