Preparation for a successful career using applied psychology requires a broad knowledge base for the major elements of psychological sciences. The Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology (BAAP) at Azusa Pacific Online University equips students with professional knowledge and practical skills in general psychology, emphasis areas, and upper division electives. Students will study these psychological principles through a Christian worldview.
Learn more about the career opportunities available with a B.A. in Applied Psychology.
Career Opportunities
The B.A. in Applied Psychology offers learners career opportunities in industries such as social services, government agencies, justice department, nonprofit, and a variety of areas of ministry, along with the ability to advance to graduate education. The job possibilities range from child welfare liaison, probation officer, adolescent residential care counselor, Christian camp counselor, corrections officer, etc. Each emphasis area gives students the opportunity to stand out among others in their field of interest, increasing their marketability for jobs and graduate education. Their emphasis area may also provide opportunities to transfer credits and reduce coursework requirements for certain graduate school programs.
Program Highlights
- Develop experiential, applicable, and practical approaches
- Integrate a Christian worldview
- Evaluate ethical behavior and decision-making within the profession
- Utilize empirical, analytical, and inductive reasoning
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of methods, theories, and concepts in the field
Coursework
Prerequisites
Before beginning the BAAP major, APOU recommends that students complete the entire General Studies Core (60 units). Prior to starting the applied psychology major, the faculty requires students to complete at least 45 units of the core requirements, including the following courses or their equivalents:
APOU 101 Momentum: Success in the University
Course Description
APOU 101
Momentum: Success in the University
3 units
This course lays a strong foundation for a successful transition to college by increasing critical thinking, curiosity, goal orientation, and motivation skills. It provides an orientation to Azusa Pacific Online University, the Moodle online learning system, digital library services, and other support services. Students will be introduced to the idea of a Christian Liberal Arts education, a strengths approach to learning, and opportunities to develop practical skills and strategies for addressing the challenges of college. This course is a prerequisite for all other APOU courses.
MIN 108 Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry
Course Description
MIN 108
Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry
3 units
The theological, educational, and social bases for ministry and service are examined. An analysis of the church’s responsibility and methods for carrying out the ministry mandate of Jesus is emphasized. Field experience is required.
COMM 111 Public Communication
Course Description
COMM 111
Public Communication
3 units
This course offers practical instruction in how to speak effectively and introduces the basic principles underlying effective communication. Topics range from the study of theoretical models of interpersonal and public communication to the fundamental skills of research, organization, and delivery of informative and persuasive discourse.
ENGL 102 Composition: Argument and Analysis
Course Description
ENGL 102
Composition: Argument and Analysis
3 units
This course promotes the intellectual and rhetorical skills necessary to write persuasive and argumentative prose. Specific areas addressed to include logic, grammar, and rhetoric. Clarity of purpose and perspicuity of argument are examined through attention to critical thinking, logical fallacies, and textual analysis. Course is limited to 15 students. Prerequisite: ENGL 101
CS 205 Basic Software Tools
Course Description
CS 205
Basic Software Tools
3 units
This PC-based course covers the basics of MS Windows and the use of applications software as problem-solving tools. In-depth coverage of popular word processing, database, and spreadsheet packages is included.
STAT 280 Applied Statistics*
Course Description
STAT 280
Applied Statistics
3 units
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development.
PSYC 110 General Psychology*
Course Description
PSYC 110
General Psychology
3 units
This general survey course explores the field of psychology. It includes human development, social psychology, learning, perception, cognition, motivation, personality, psychological testing, and nervous system functioning. Students enrolled in this course may be required to share information regarding their personal life, family, or relationships.
* Required for BAAP
Major Course Sequence
In addition to the APOU General Studies Core and elective requirements, the 60-unit BAAP major consists of three components, namely the Applied Psychology core (36 units) , emphasis area (18 units), and elective section (6 units).
Applied Psychology Core Requirements (36 units)
STAT 280 Applied Statistics
Course Description
STAT 280
Applied Statistics
3 units
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development.
APSY 295 Human Growth and Development
Course Description
APSY 295
Human Growth and Development
3 units
An extensive study of psychological development from conception through death. This multidisciplinary approach examines the effects of psychosocial, cognitive, biological, moral, and related factors that impact human development.
APSY 300 Research Methods in Psychology
Course Description
APSY 300
Research Methods in Psychology
3 units
A comprehensive theoretical and practical introduction to planning, conducting, reporting, and evaluating psychological research. Topics include experimental design, quantitative and qualitative procedures, ethical considerations, as well as, critical analysis and scrutiny of published research. Students will plan, conduct, and present research using APA guidelines and writing standards. (Prerequisite: STAT 280 Applied Statistics)
APSY 305 Abnormal Psychology
Course Description
APSY 305
Abnormal Psychology
3 units
A systematic overview of the classification, explanation, and treatment of disorders described in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Historical and modern trends in etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment are examined.
APSY 315 Integration of Psychology and Christianity
Course Description
APSY 315
Integration of Psychology and Christianity
3 units
A constructive integration of psychology and the Christian faith. Critically analyzes psychological theories, treatments, and perspectives through a Christian worldview, while also developing an understanding of how psychology informs theology and faith.
APSY 340 Interviewing and Counseling Techniques
Course Description
APSY 340
Interviewing and Counseling Techniques
3 units
An overview of basic clinical interviewing and counseling techniques from both the didactic and experiential perspectives. Topics include methods and theories in counseling, roles in the counseling relationship, legal considerations, dealing with resistance, cultural awareness and ethical issues related to counseling.
APSY 350 Social Psychology
Course Description
APSY 350
Social Psychology
3 units
A comprehensive overview of social psychology that examines how the thoughts, feelings, and behavior of individuals is influenced by actual, imagined, or implied social interactions. Includes pertinent research, ethical and cultural aspects to social psychology.
APSY 370 Psychopharmacology
Course Description
APSY 370
Psychopharmacology
3 units
An introduction to the behavioral, psychological, and physiological effects of chemicals used in the treatment of psychological disorders. Addresses therapeutic and recreational uses coupled with prevention and treatment of abuse and alternatives to medication.
APSY 430 Cultural Psychology
Course Description
APSY 430
Cultural Psychology
3 units
Reviews research and perspectives on the psychology of culture. Examines diversity including age, race, religion, nationality, disability, language, and gender. Explores the relationship between cultural factors and prejudice, discrimination and oppression. Applies knowledge and principles to effectively interact and serve in a multicultural society.
APSY 490 Practicum
Course Description
APSY 490
Practicum
3 units
Students participate in field or research experience along with completing related discussions, readings, and other required coursework. All students serving in research positions will serve as apprentices on survey, laboratory, clinical, and/or field research projects. Practicum proposals must be approved by the instructor. (Prerequisite: Completion of all BAAP core courses and 9 units in emphasis area or consent of instructor)
Choose one:
APSY 320 Personality Theory
Course Description
APSY 320
Personality Theory
3 units
An evaluative review of the methods and content utilized in the study personality. Covers varied approaches and theories to understanding the dynamics of personality and instruments measuring personality along with their validity and ethical considerations.
APSY 410 Psychology of Emotions
Course Description
APSY 410
Psychology of Emotions
3 units
Analysis of theoretical and empirical issues in the domain of emotions, incorporating current approaches and interactions between emotion and cognition.
Choose one:
APSY 325 Learning Theory
Course Description
APSY 325
Learning Theory
3 units
Foundations of human learning are examined, with an emphasis on experimental research and their underlying assumptions. Both historical and contemporary concepts are discussed with particular focus on application to individuals, organizations, and institutions.
APSY 330 Cognition
Course Description
APSY 330
Cognition
3 units
An in-depth exploration of human cognition, focusing on both classic and current theories, problems, paradigms, methods and measurement.
APSY 405 Physiological Psychology
Course Description
APSY 405
Physiological Psychology
3 units
Comprehensive study of the physiological and neurological correlates of human behavior. Potential topics include physiological mechanisms in perception, learning, emotion and motivation.
Emphasis (18 units)
Students have the opportunity to select an individualized set of electives to compose their emphasis. Watch the video to the right, as Dr. Nealy Brown, discipline chair for the B.A. in Applied Psychology, shares more about choosing an emphasis to fit your educational and professional goals.
Learn more about the opportunities available with the B.A. in Applied Psychology emphasis areas by downloading the Job Options Worksheet (PDF).
Choose your emphasis:
Criminal Behavior emphasis
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
APSY 345 Criminal Behavior
Course Description
APSY 345
Criminal Behavior
3 units
An exploration of theories and research that provide cognitive, behavioral, and psychological explanations of criminal behavior, including how individual criminal behavior is acquired, evoked, maintained and modified. Also addresses cultural and social aspects related to criminal behavior along with effective intervention strategies.
APSY 415 Forensic Psychology
Course Description
APSY 415
Forensic Psychology
3 units
Investigates the application of the science and profession of psychology to issues relating to law and the legal system. Addresses related psychological research, legal issues and processes, as well as cultural and ethical issues in forensic psychology.
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
APSY 480 Group Processes
Course Description
APSY 480
Group Processes
3 units
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Cultural Psychology emphasis
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
APSY 435 Gender Issues in Psychology
Course Description
APSY 435
Gender Issues in Psychology
3 units
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisite: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 295 Human Growth and Development, or consent of instructor)
APSY 475 Ethics
Course Description
APSY 475
Ethics
3 units
An in-depth assessment of the values, ideas, and laws that guide the helping professions, including professional codes of conduct, philosophical ethical principles, and the Christian worldview.
APSY 480 Group Processes
Course Description
APSY 480
Group Processes
3 units
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Choose two:
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 485 Management and Organizational Behavior
Course Description
APSY 485
Management and Organizational Behavior
3 units
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals.
(Cross-listed as MGT 485)
Educational Psychology emphasis
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
APSY 360 Special Education and Rehabilitation Services
Course Description
APSY 360
Special Education and Rehabilitation Services
3 units
Survey of theories, research, and practice of effective interventions for individuals with mild/moderate and moderate/severe disabilities. Legal rights, responsibilities, ethical issues, advocacy, and pertinent services are addressed.
APSY 440 Child Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Child Psychology
3 units
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in children emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of children.
APSY 445 Adolescent Psychology
Course Description
APSY 445
Adolescent Psychology
3 units
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in adolescents emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of adolescents.
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Choose one:
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
APSY 470 Positive Psychology
Course Description
APSY 470
Positive Psychology
3 units
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
Applied Pastoral Counseling emphasis
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
Selection and evaluation of standardized psychological tests and measurements are presented, with a survey pertaining to intelligence, personality, aptitude, achievement, and other traits. Validity, reliability, ethics, and misinterpretation of results are discussed. Students will administer and interpret various instruments.
APSY 425 Crisis Counseling and Intervention
Course Description
APSY 425
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
3 units
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
APSY 470 Positive Psychology
Course Description
APSY 470
Positive Psychology
3 units
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
General Psychology emphasis
Complete these courses below and choose three psychology electives:
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
Choose one:
APSY 425 Crisis Counseling and Intervention
Course Description
APSY 425
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
3 units
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Choose one:
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
APSY 480 Group Processes
Course Description
APSY 480
Group Processes
3 units
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
APSY 485 Management and Organizational Behavior
Course Description
APSY 485
Management and Organizational Behavior
3 units
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals.
(Cross-listed as MGT 485)
Business Psychology emphasis
APSY 435 Gender Issues in Psychology
Course Description
APSY 435
Gender Issues in Psychology
3 units
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisite: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 295 Human Growth and Development, or consent of instructor)
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
APSY 470 Positive Psychology
Course Description
APSY 470
Positive Psychology
3 units
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
APSY 480 Group Processes
Course Description
APSY 480
Group Processes
3 units
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
APSY 485 Management and Organizational Behavior
Course Description
APSY 485
Management and Organizational Behavior
3 units
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals.
(Cross-listed as MGT 485)
Human Services emphasis
APSY 425 Crisis Counseling and Intervention
Course Description
APSY 425
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
3 units
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
APSY 435 Gender Issues in Psychology
Course Description
APSY 435
Gender Issues in Psychology
3 units
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisite: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 295 Human Growth and Development, or consent of instructor)
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Choose one:
APSY 440 Child Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Child Psychology
3 units
Physical, cognitive, psychosocial and spiritual development from conception to adolescence is emphasized. Theoretical and applied aspects of developmental stages, parenting skills, and teaching modalities are discussed. A survey of psychological disorders affecting children is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
APSY 445 Adolescent Psychology
Course Description
APSY 445
Adolescent Psychology
3 units
Major theoretical models of adolescent development and maturation are presented, with a focus on identity, socialization, family interactions, school issues, sexuality, morality, substance abuse, psychological issues, and spiritual development. A survey of psychological disorders affecting adolescents is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
Choose one:
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
APSY 480 Group Processes
Course Description
APSY 480
Group Processes
3 units
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
Child and Adolescent Psychology emphasis
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
APSY 425 Crisis Counseling and Intervention
Course Description
APSY 425
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
3 units
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
APSY 440 Child Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Child Psychology
3 units
Physical, cognitive, psychosocial and spiritual development from conception to adolescence is emphasized. Theoretical and applied aspects of developmental stages, parenting skills, and teaching modalities are discussed. A survey of psychological disorders affecting children is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
APSY 445 Adolescent Psychology
Course Description
APSY 445
Adolescent Psychology
3 units
Major theoretical models of adolescent development and maturation are presented, with a focus on identity, socialization, family interactions, school issues, sexuality, morality, substance abuse, psychological issues, and spiritual development. A survey of psychological disorders affecting adolescents is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Choose one:
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Clinical Psychology emphasis
APSY 335 Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
Course Description
APSY 335
Fundamentals of Testing and Assessment
3 units
An appraisal of the construction, administration, interpretation, and evaluation of psychological tests and measurements. Evaluates the validity, reliability, applicability, cultural and ethical uses. Students will be involved in the administration and interpretation of select instruments.
APSY 400 Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Introduction to Clinical Psychology
3 units
Survey of the science and practice of clinical psychology, including diagnoses and evaluations, interventions and prevention strategies for use with clinical populations, cultural applications, and ethical issues in the clinical profession.
APSY Elective
Choose two:
APSY 425 Crisis Counseling and Intervention
Course Description
APSY 425
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
3 units
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
Choose one:
APSY 440 Child Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Child Psychology
3 units
Physical, cognitive, psychosocial and spiritual development from conception to adolescence is emphasized. Theoretical and applied aspects of developmental stages, parenting skills, and teaching modalities are discussed. A survey of psychological disorders affecting children is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
APSY 445 Adolescent Psychology
Course Description
APSY 445
Adolescent Psychology
3 units
Major theoretical models of adolescent development and maturation are presented, with a focus on identity, socialization, family interactions, school issues, sexuality, morality, substance abuse, psychological issues, and spiritual development. A survey of psychological disorders affecting adolescents is presented as well, with an exploration of causal factors (genetic, biological, sociocultural, etc.) and their treatment.
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
Upper Division Electives (6 units)
Choose any two 400-level courses:
APSY 400 Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Introduction to Clinical Psychology
3 units
Survey of the science and practice of clinical psychology, including diagnoses and evaluations, interventions and prevention strategies for use with clinical populations, cultural applications, and ethical issues in the clinical profession.
APSY 405 Physiological Psychology
Course Description
APSY 405
Physiological Psychology
3 units
Comprehensive study of the physiological and neurological correlates of human behavior. Potential topics include physiological mechanisms in perception, learning, emotion and motivation.
APSY 410 Psychology of Emotions
Course Description
APSY 410
Psychology of Emotions
3 units
Analysis of theoretical and empirical issues in the domain of emotions, incorporating current approaches and interactions between emotion and cognition.
APSY 415 Forensic Psychology
Course Description
APSY 415
Forensic Psychology
3 units
Investigates the application of the science and profession of psychology to issues relating to law and the legal system. Addresses related psychological research, legal issues and processes, as well as cultural and ethical issues in forensic psychology.
APSY 425 Crisis Counseling and Intervention
Course Description
APSY 425
Crisis Counseling and Intervention
3 units
An examination of the knowledge, skills, and practices specific to crisis counseling and intervention. Focuses on applying appropriate methods to crisis situations, while considering cultural and ethical issues.
APSY 435 Gender Issues in Psychology
Course Description
APSY 435
Gender Issues in Psychology
3 units
Critically examines research and perspectives on gender and sexual socialization and development, along with physiological and cultural contributions to gender differences, sexual orientation, sexual adjustment and related areas of influence. (Prerequisite: PSYC 110 General Psychology, APSY 295 Human Growth and Development, or consent of instructor)
APSY 440 Child Psychology
Course Description
APSY 440
Child Psychology
3 units
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in children emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of children.
APSY 445 Adolescent Psychology
Course Description
APSY 445
Adolescent Psychology
3 units
Explores different aspects of psychological issues in adolescents emphasizing symptomatology, assessment, etiological factors, and various treatment modalities. Examines cultural, ethical, and legal issues related to the treatment of adolescents.
APSY 450 Family Systems
Course Description
APSY 450
Family Systems
3 units
An overview of the development of the family system, including functional and dysfunctional family relationships, cultural and spiritual implications. Introduces psychological interventions and techniques which further development and change.
APSY 455 Conflict Management
Course Description
APSY 455
Conflict Management
3 units
Examines the diagnosis, analysis, and resolution of conflict between individuals and in organizations. Discusses the application of different types of negotiation strategies based on rational and emotional elements in approaching negotiation, cultural contexts, and individual differences. (Cross-listed as MGT 455)
APSY 460 Motivation
Course Description
APSY 460
Motivation
3 units
Explores research and perspectives on experimental and applied analysis of behavior that impact motivation. Addresses the application of methods for effective motivation in a variety of settings.
APSY 470 Positive Psychology
Course Description
APSY 470
Positive Psychology
3 units
Investigates methods, research, and assessment in Positive Psychology. Incorporates applications and techniques to this strength based approach both didactically and experientially.
APSY 475 Ethics
Course Description
APSY 475
Ethics
3 units
An in-depth assessment of the values, ideas, and laws that guide the helping professions, including professional codes of conduct, philosophical ethical principles, and the Christian worldview.
APSY 480 Group Processes
Course Description
APSY 480
Group Processes
3 units
Study of research and perspectives regarding human interaction in groups. Examines the impact of various individual, social, and cultural dynamics and how to successfully influence and interact in group settings.
APSY 485 Management and Organizational Behavior
Course Description
APSY 485
Management and Organizational Behavior
3 units
This course introduces the managerial skills of planning, organizing, leading, and control. It gives particular emphasis to organizing and actuating responsibility and authority, delegation, decentralization, the role of staff, line-staff relationship committees, boards of directors, organization charting, formal and informal organization, communication in multicultural settings, and reaction to change. Students develop a personal philosophy of management to guide their careers as business professionals.
(Cross-listed as MGT 485)
APSY 495 Special Topics in Psychology
Course Description
APSY 495
Special Topics in Psychology
3 units
Current or relevant topics are presented, with the focus on new practices, theories, or research interests in the field. This course may be repeated for up to 6 units.
Note: This information is current for the 2013 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. To view 2013 program information, please refer to the APOU catalog.