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2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [FINAL EDITION]
Course Descriptions
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Writing enriched courses are designated W
Service learning courses are designated S.L.
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Political Science |
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POLS 229 - Eurosim: Model European Union
1 Credit(s)
This course is preparation for participation in EuroSim the European Union simulation. Students conduct in-depth research on the simulation topic and take on roles as prime ministers, other ministers, members of the European parliament, and other EU officials. The venue alternates between the United States and Europe. Students are responsible for costs associated with travel.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 102 or POLS 228 and by permission of instructor.
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POLS 235 - Coups, Cartels, and Carnevale: Politics in Latin America
3 Credit(s)
The goal of this course is to provide students with a basic understanding of how the political systems of Latin America function. The course focuses on the evolution of those systems and analyzes how they have dealt with problems of socioeconomic development.
Prerequisite(s): No Prerequisites.
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POLS 247 - Vodka and Capitalism: Russian Politics in the 21st Century
3 Credit(s)
This course examines the various political, economic, and social problems facing Russia and the 14 so-called Newly Independent States (NIS), which together formerly composed the Soviet Union. Topics addressed include the transition and evolution of the Russian political system, the transformation of the Soviet command economy into a capitalist economy, the attendant rise of organized crime, the war in Chechnya, and Russian foreign policy. In addition, students examine the post-Soviet developments in the Central Asian republics (the “Stans”), and their role in the war on terror.
Prerequisite(s): No Prerequisites.
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POLS 288 - Special Topics in Political Science
3 Credit(s)
Investigation of special topics, preferably on an interdisciplinary basis. Offering depends upon faculty approval and student interest.
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POLS 306 - Modern Political Theory
3 Credit(s)
An in-depth survey of the major pre-20th-century thinkers who influenced Western political tradition, including Plato and Aristotle; Machiavelli; Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau; Hegel and Marx. A critical reading of the original texts promotes careful discussion of their historical contexts and relevance to contemporary issues. Students also administer the Democracy Project—a campus-wide undergraduate survey—and analyze its results. Required for majors.
Prerequisite(s): No Prerequisites.
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POLS 307 - Theories of International Relations
3 Credit(s)
As the study of international politics has emerged as a separate discipline, various contending theories have been developed to explain the nature of the international state system. Students in this course examine several of these theories and attempt to evaluate them. This course is intended for advanced students in political science.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 221 .
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POLS 310 - Empirical Political Analysis
4 Credit(s)
The main goal of this course is to provide students with the theoretical background and research skills for behavioral political analysis. Topics include research design, data collection, data analysis, computer techniques, and research applications. Laboratory sessions provide further opportunities for research skills development. Political science and international relations students are required to take this course in the junior year.
Prerequisite(s): No Prerequisites.
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POLS 313 - The American Presidency
3 Credit(s)
Examines the institutional, behavioral, and societal forces that have given rise to the modern presidency, the factors that enhance and constrain the exercise of presidential power, the nature and consequences of the presidential decision-making process, together with the desirability and feasibility of reforming the presidency.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 .
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POLS 315 - State and Local Government
3 Credit(s)
An examination of political organization at the state and local levels and the effectiveness of governmental action in dealing with problems of community life. Attention is given to our rapidly expanding metropolitan areas, conflicts over community participation in the governmental process, and problems of relations between governments at different levels. Political structure and history of Pennsylvania are used for examples.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 .
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POLS 316 - American Political Parties and Elections
3 Credit(s)
An examination of the characteristics of the American party system and how the individual can organize to use it, or other private groups, to influence elections and public policy.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 .
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POLS 317 - The Presidency and Congress
3 Credit(s)
An examination of the presidency, Congress, and the administrative bureaucracy. The course includes an examination of the way in which these institutions are organized, how they jointly develop and carry out governmental programs, and current efforts to assure their responsiveness to the public.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 .
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POLS 318 - The Judiciary
3 Credit(s)
This course is a study of judicial processes in the American political system. Topics include judicial decision making, organization of the court system, legal development and justice, and the relationship between law and social change.
Prerequisite(s): No Prerequisites.
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POLS 319 - Introduction to Constitutional Law
3 Credit(s)
This course introduces the student to the development of constitutions, constitutionalism, and judicial review as a way of granting, limiting, and dividing power within nations; studies briefly the evolution of the Anglo-Saxon common law system as a way of developing constitutional precedents; examines specific cases dealing with judicial review, the scope of powers granted to the federal government, and the division of American governmental authority through federalism.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 218 and junior standing or permission of instructor.
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POLS 320 - Constitutional Rights and Liberties
3 Credit(s)
This course is a study of the development of constitutional law relating to the rights of individuals and limitations on the power of government. The course examines the way in which precedents develop, focusing on the Bill of Rights and other relevant portions of the Constitution.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 218 and junior standing or permission of instructor.
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POLS 337 - Politics in the Middle East
3 Credit(s)
An analysis of the Middle East (the Arabic-speaking countries, as well as Israel, Turkey, and Iran) and its role in world politics, focusing on the period since World War II. Attention is given to integrative and disintegrative forces within and among the Middle Eastern countries. Students also examine the Arab-Israeli impasse and the roots of terrorism in the Middle East. American relations with the Middle East are also stressed.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 102 .
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POLS 345 - War and Peace
3 Credit(s)
This course examines various facets of war and peace. Peace is treated here as more than the absence of war. Over the years, humankind has developed various tactics and strategies that sometimes succeed in promoting peace and cooperation among states. The course also explores the causes of war and examines some of the techniques to prevent war and keep the peace, such as deterrence and arms control, Wilsonian collective security, complex multilateralism and integration, negotiation and mediation, peace-keeping, peace enforcement, and peace building.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 204 , POLS 221 , or POLS 222 . Sophomore standing required.
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POLS 347 - Star Wars, Star Trek or Firefly: Nation-States and Globalization
3 Credit(s)
In the TV series Star Trek, the world is ruled by a political structure called “The Federation.” All former nation-states have been merged under one political system. In the universe of Firefly, the United States and China formed one political entity combining politics and languages on “Earth-That-Was.” Is this the direction we are headed through globalization? Are nation-states becoming an artifact of the past. This course focuses on the political, economic, and social impacts of globalization on nation states around the world. It builds on and encompasses theories and arguments from international relations, comparative politics, and even American politics.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 102 or POLS 204 or permission of instructor.
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POLS 385 - Strategic Intelligence
3 Credit(s)
This course is designed to explain the nature of strategic intelligence, review the evolution of American intelligence, study the organizations that engage in American intelligence today, and consider the dangers of secret intelligence in a free society. In addition, the course examines the basic elements of intelligence: collection, analysis and estimates, counterintelligence, and covert action.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 221 or POLS 222 .
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POLS 388 - Special Topics in Political Science
3 Credit(s)
Investigation of special topics, preferably on an interdisciplinary basis. Offering depends upon faculty approval and student interest.
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POLS 390 - Practicum
12-15 Credit(s)
This subject-related work experience or other activity occupies the principal time of the student for one semester. Offered only upon special application from the student and a sponsoring faculty member. Approval must be obtained in advance from the social science faculty and requires a specific outline of work to be done; the nature and extent of its academic relevance; student academic and other preparations qualifying the individual for the proposed activity; and methods to be used in evaluating the quality of the work. Students enrolling must make arrangements for regular contact with supervising faculty members and may not engage in extraneous outside employment in excess of 10 hours per week. Junior or senior standing required and permission of the political science faculty.
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POLS 394 - Political Science Internship
3 Credit(s)
This is off-campus work experience of 6–8 hours per week with a governmental, quasi-governmental, or community service agency. Students work under the direct supervision of agency personnel, keep a diary of their experiences, become familiar with the scholarly literature relevant to their placement activity, and participate in weekly on-campus meetings. Each student also writes an end-of-semester paper about the experience, drawing on the diary record, the student’s overall impressions, and the concurrent readings. May be taken for one or two semesters for a maximum of 6 credits. Permission of instructor is required prior to registration. Open only to juniors and seniors, and not available to individuals who are student- teaching.
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POLS 395 - Political Science Internship
3 Credit(s)
This is off-campus work experience of 6–8 hours per week with a governmental, quasi-governmental, or community service agency. Students work under the direct supervision of agency personnel, keep a diary of their experiences, become familiar with the scholarly literature relevant to their placement activity, and participate in weekly on-campus meetings. Each student also writes an end-of-semester paper about the experience, drawing on the diary record, the student’s overall impressions, and the concurrent readings. May be taken for one or two semesters for a maximum of 6 credits. Permission of instructor is required prior to registration. Open only to juniors and seniors, and not available to individuals who are student- teaching.
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POLS 410 - Senior Research Seminar
3 Credit(s)
Preparation of a senior research paper and poster presentation in a specific field of political science. Required of all majors in international relations and political science.
Prerequisite(s): POLS 310 .
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POLS 488 - Special Topics in Political Science
3 Credit(s)
Investigation of special topics, preferably on an interdisciplinary basis. Offering depends upon faculty approval and student interest.
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POLS 499 - Independent Study
1-6 Credit(s)
Individual study for a limited number of specially qualified advanced students in consultation with a member of the political science faculty. Admission to the course is at the discretion of the faculty member who would be involved, and requires written permission of the faculty supervisor and the social science division head.
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Professional Writing |
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PRWR 100 - Fundamentals of Professional Writing (W)
3 Credit(s)
This writing-enriched course introduces students to the diverse field of professional writing. Through required assignments and in-classexercises, students learn, practice, and improve their writing skills for various professional media, as well as begin compiling their first professional portfolio. Writing forms include print and electronic material. This course provides the suggested (but not required) basis for other courses in professional writing.
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PRWR 215 - Effective Business Communication (W)
3 Credit(s)
This writing-enriched course covers the theory and application of oral, written, and interactive (computer) communication techniques. Using topics relating to their own disciplines, students prepare appropriate forms of communication, including oral presentations, short reports, letters, memos, and proposals.
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 101 or ENGL 103 .
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PRWR 300 - Techniques in Professional Writing (W)
3 Credit(s)
This course hones techniques of professional writing for students of varied academic disciplines. Common elements—notably editing, rhetoric, and visuals—are shared as a class. Discipline-specific elements— such as technical, science, health care, and advertising—are taught for teams with similar interests. In a consultative simulation of professional writing, students collaborate on an integrated capstone project, potentially for the model of experiential community engagement.
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PRWR 380 - Writing for Health and Medicine (W)
3 Credit(s)
This writing-enriched course examines the types of writing particular to the fields of health and medicine. Students review and critique example documents from fields such as medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and nursing; as needed, background on particular specialties, such as writing for the pharmaceutical industry, is provided. This course is especially relevant to students interested in careers in any health care or medical field.
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PRWR 390 - Writing for the Non-Profit Sector (W)
3 Credit(s)
This writing-enriched course prepares students to plan, write, and disseminate the types of documents needed by nonprofit organizations in the community. Documents such as grant proposals, branding campaigns, and outreach pieces are examined. Of particular focus is writing within budgetary constraints of the nonprofit sector. This course may be of special interest to students who plan to work in community engagement or with community agencies. Assignments aretailored to the interests of students. This course may have a service-learning component.
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PRWR 405 - Practicum in Professional Writing (W)
3 Credit(s)
This independently conducted course bridges academic efforts with real-world experience. Specifically, communication pieces are on an approved topic. Pieces generated within this practicum can represent one or several genres, depending on scope and depth. Additionally prepared is a professional portfolio highlighting representative pieces from the entire program of study.
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Psychology |
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PSY 105 - Introduction to Psychology
3 Credit(s)
A general introduction to scientific psychology, including biological psychology, development, learning, memory, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
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PSY 188 - Special Topics in Psychology
1-4 Credit(s)
Topics offered in response to student and faculty interest.
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PSY 200 - Industrial/ Organizational Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Relation of general psychology to aspects of business and industry including personnel selection, training, placement, supervision, and evaluation. Deals with organizational influences on behavior, job motivation and satisfaction, leadership, communication, problem solving, and research methods in I/O psychology.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 . Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
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PSY 202 - Educational Psychology (S)
3 Credit(s)
This course is an introduction to the application of psychological theories and principles to educational settings. Topics include basic concepts of measurement and assessment, developmental characteristics of learners, theories of learning and motivation, classroom management and teacher behavior, and individual differences of young learners. Diversity in family and community contexts, as well as the culture of child development/day care, preschool, and elementary school settings are explored. This is a service-learning course.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 203 - Consumer Behavior and Advertising
3 Credit(s)
An investigation of how psychological processes influence the marketing and consumption of products as well as the marketing and acceptance of ideas. Some of the topics include how advertising attempts to change attitudes and behavior, the influence of motivation theory on advertising content, how persuasion influences the adoption of products and political beliefs, and cultural differences in consumption patterns. Students may not get credit for both PSY 203 and MKT 400 .
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 204 - Social Psychology
3 Credit(s)
The study of human behavior in a social setting, emphasizing types of research that may be used to study social behavior. Among topics covered are attitude formation and change, aggression and its opposite, helping behavior, factors that influence like and dislike of other people, group processes, conformity to a group, and leadership.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 or SOC 105 . Students should not take both PSY 204 and PSY 210 . Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
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PSY 205 - Personality
3 Credit(s)
Examples of four major types of contemporary personality theory are examined, contrasted, and compared. The role of theory and the relationship of research and evaluation strategies to theory are considered with examples from each of the theories studied, which include psychoanalytic, trait, phenomenological, and behavioral approaches to the study of personality. Required for psychology majors. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 206 - Psychology of Women
3 Credit(s)
The social construction of gender and its impact on the lives of women are examined in this course. This survey course is designed to cover a wide array of psychological topics as they relate to the female experience in American culture. The influence of historical, developmental, and social contexts on psychological experiences are also examined.
This course fulfills the requirements for the GWS major and minor.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 207 - Psychology of Addictive Behaviors
3 Credit(s)
This course is an overview of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of addictive disorders. Topics include alcohol and drug abuse, gambling, and other behavioral addictions. Treatment models and professional ethics associated with addiction counseling are explored.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 208 - Close Relationships and Physical Health Across the Lifespan
3 Credit(s)
This course examines how our relationships with close others impact our physical health (and vice versa) for better or worse. Drawing heavily from literature published in the last 10 years, the course will explore the social contagion of health-related behaviors such as balanced eating and regular exercise in addition to the role of close relationships in buffering or amplifying the effects of psychosocial risk on stress reactivity and immune function. The course will cover relationships between parents, friends and romantic partners through varied theoretical lenses such as attachment theory, the theory of planned behavior and the biological embedding model. We will also focus on how the context (age, race, culture, sexual orientation, etc.) of these relationships affects their impact. The course will culminate with students leading class discussion and writing an essay explaining how they can improve the health of close others in their own lives. This course serves as a psychology elective and a social science general education elective.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 and one of the following: PSY 204 , PSY 211 , or PSY 212 .
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PSY 210 - Cross-Cultural Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Cross-cultural psychology deals with research done outside the United States and looks both for the universals of social behavior and for differences that might be brought about by culture. Differences between subcultures (e.g., groups defined by race, ethnicity, or social class) are also considered. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 . Students may not take both PSY 204 and PSY 210.
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PSY 211 - Infants, Children and Adolescents
3 Credit(s)
This course studies human development from birth to adolescence. The course addresses the interplay of biological, intellectual, social, and emotional development. Students cannot receive credit for both PSY 211 and PSY 332 . Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Social Science societal/cultural perspective or advanced study.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
Formerly: Human Growth and Development I
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PSY 212 - Adulthood and Aging
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on human development from adolescence through adulthood and old age. It explores changing capacities and stresses throughout the human life span. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements. Students cannot receive credit for both PSY 212 and PSY 338 .
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
Formerly: Human Growth and Development II
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PSY 213 - Early Adolescent Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This course studies human development from the preteen through the late adolescent years. The course addresses physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. Important topics covered include eating disorders, self-concept, academic achievement, dating, drug and alcohol use, suicide, delinquency, and sexuality. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105
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PSY 215 - Multicultural Psychology (S)
3 Credit(s)
This course is an introduction to the principles, theories, and applications of multiculturalism. Students are required to examine their own sense of self and others’ identity, beliefs and assumptions, and behaviors. Theories, research, and skills are explored so that students can acquire the necessary multicultural competencies for effective work with children and adolescents from diverse backgrounds (i.e., culture, race, ethnicity, class, and gender) in multicultural environments (i.e., public schools, community organizations). This is a service- learning course. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 216 - Community Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on the application of psychological principles to understanding and addressing community issues. Students take an ecological or systemic perspective on human behavior, paying particular attention to the influence of cultural and contextual influences on the human experience. This course also focuses on the prevention of problems, promotion of health, and the empowerment of individuals and communities. Topics for exploration include poverty, family, food security, community violence, education, health, stress, and coping. This course has an optional service learning component.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 222 - Social Psychology and Cinema
3 Credit(s)
This course explores the representation of social psychological theory in modern cinema. Topics covered in this course include but are not limited to: prosocial behavior, aggression, social cognition, racism, cultural norms, and group behavior. This course uses a combination of social psychological theory, research and documentaries and films to explore the determinants of important forms of human social behavior.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105
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PSY 225 - Abnormal Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on similarities and differences between normal and abnormal behavior, individual and environmental genesis and treatment of neurosis and psychosis, and relation of abnormality to social, religious, educational, and other aspects of living. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 230 - Cognition
3 Credit(s)
This course involves an in-depth analysis of human information processing. Topics include perception, attention, memory, and higher cognitive functions. Practical applications of cognitive principles are also discussed. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements. Students cannot receive credit for both PSY 230 and PSY 331 .
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 235 - Forensic Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Psychological research has much to offer to the fields of law and law enforcement. In this course, the potential impact and relevance of empirical psychological research to the criminal justice system is discussed in detail. Topics include basic methodological issues, lie detection, repressed memories, jury selection, line-up construction, eyewitness identification and testimony, courtroom persuasion, and group decision making. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 and 3 additional credits in either psychology or criminal justice.
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PSY 236 - Psychology of Eating and Drinking
3 Credit(s)
This course covers the biological underpinnings of how, what, when, and why we eat and drink the things that we do. Historical perspectives as well as modern day theories are covered, as are relevant literature on such topics as food deserts, obesity, the relationship between food and disease, the influence of plating on consumption, food preferences, and sustainability. Social justice issues related to food availability and marketing practices are also covered. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 245 - Group Dynamics
3 Credit(s)
This advanced course in social psychology deals with behavior in group settings. Among topics covered are: one-to-one relationships in personal and work settings; group formation, structure and leadership; group functioning, conformity, and effective work groups.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 or SOC 105 .
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PSY 246 - Positive Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Positive psychology is the empirical study of positive emotion (e.g., happiness), positive individual traits (e.g., resilience), and positive institutions (e.g., effective schools). This course will introduce students to the history and theory behind positive psychology. It will also examine the findings and applications of research in the field. Students should leave the course with an improved understanding of how the study of psychology can improve lives of everyday people.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105
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PSY 247 - Understanding and Managing Stress
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on the research surrounding the physiological underpinnings of stress, the positive and negative consequences of stress, and specific stress management skills. Understanding and Managing Stress is a service learning course that provides a special opportunity for Widener students and prison inmates to learn together in classes held at the Chester State Correctional Facility. This unique classroom environment creates an understanding of the similar and unique stressors of college and prisoners, offering lively and educationally beneficial discussions throughout the semester.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 or CJ 105 ; sophomore standing or above; PSY or CJ major.
(SAME AS CJ 247 )
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PSY 260 - Paranormal Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This course involves a critical examination of beliefs in paranormal phenomena. Students read and discuss reports of ESP, human spontaneous combustion, near death experiences, and other parapsychological experiences. In addition, the psychological processes that underlie beliefs in other paranormal phenomena, such as aliens, ghosts, and “hidden” animals, are discussed. An emphasis is placed on understanding the errors in cognitive processes that can lead to erroneous beliefs.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 265 - Evolutionary Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This course examines a range of psychological phenomena within the framework of evolutionary psychology. The basic principles of evolution through natural selection are introduced, followed by their application to animal and human behavior. Topics include ethology, food preferences, short-term mating strategies, long-term mating strategies, parental investment, kinship, alliances, aggression, and dominance. An introduction to behavior genetics is also covered.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 270 - Supervised Research Topics in Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Students work with a faculty member in conducting a research project of mutual interest. Students are required to become familiar with the scholarly literature relevant to the research project in addition to their active involvement with other aspects of the research, such as research design, construction of research materials, data collection, data analysis, and report writing. Regular meetings with the supervising faculty member and a final written report are required. This course may be taken for two semesters for a maximum of 6 credits. This course may be used to fulfill one psychology advanced elective based on the area of research.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 and permission of instructor prior to registration.
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PSY 271 - Supervised Research Topics in Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Students work with a faculty member in conducting a research project of mutual interest. Students are required to become familiar with the scholarly literature relevant to the research project in addition to their active involvement with other aspects of the research, such as research design, construction of research materials, data collection, data analysis, and report writing. Regular meetings with the supervising faculty member and a final written report are required. This course may be taken for two semesters for a maximum of 6 credits. This course may be used to fulfill one psychology advanced elective based on the area of research.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 and permission of instructor prior to registration.
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PSY 275 - Drugs and the Brain
3 Credit(s)
This course is an introduction to the behavioral, physiological, and molecular effects of therapeutic, recreational, and addictive drugs. Topics include structure and function of the neuron, principles of psychopharmacology, neurotransmitter systems, common mechanisms of drug action, substance abuse and addiction, and treatments for psychiatric disorders. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 288 - Special Topics in Psychology
1 - 3 Credit(s)
Topics offered in response to student and faculty interest.
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PSY 293 - Careers in Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Students in this course learn about different career opportunities in psychology, acquire information about graduate programs, and obtain the skills necessary for a post-baccalaureate career endeavor in psychology. Students develop their own well-informed and customized education plan. Students network with professionals who are directly and indirectly involved with the psychology major. In addition, students learn the logistics of setting up a practicum and an internship. Students learn about ethical and professional development issues pertinent to the sites in which they work, the enrollment process, placement site supervision requirement, and interviewing skills relevant to acquiring a practicum or internship position. This course is a prerequisite for PSY 394 Applied Practicum and PSY 395 Clinical/Counseling Practicum. Students should take this course during the sophomore year.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 (grade C or better).
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PSY 331 - Cognition With Laboratory (W)
4 Credit(s)
This course involves an in-depth analysis of human information processing through lecture and structured lab activities. Topics include perception, attention, memory, and higher cognitive functions. Practical applications of cognitive principles are also discussed. Students design and conduct experiments in cognitive psychology and write laboratory reports. Psychology majors only. Students take either PSY 230 or PSY 331; they may not take both. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 387 (grade of C or better).
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PSY 333 - Forensic Psychology With Laboratory (W)
4 Credit(s)
The purpose of this course is to give students an understanding of the role of psychological research as it pertains to the fields of law and law enforcement. Through lecture and lab activities, students learn about basic methodological issues, lie detection, repressed memories, jury selection, line-up construction, eyewitness identification and testimony, courtroom persuasion, and group decision making. Students use experimental design, existing measures of legal attitudes, and computer technology to design studies to investigate some of the lecture topics. Students prepare laboratory reports using the APA style. Psychology majors only. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements. Students take either PSY 235 or PSY 333; they may not take both.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 387 (grade C or better).
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PSY 334 - Consumer Behavior With Laboratory (W)
4 Credit(s)
Consumer Behavior with Laboratory is a course concerning the processes involved when people acquire, use, and dispose of goods, services, ideas, and experiences. Consumer behavior topics include attitude development and change, product knowledge and involvement, decision-making, learning, personality and social influences such as culture, race, income, age, and social class. In addition, this course is dedicated to learning about the research process in the field of consumer behavior. This includes the responsibilities of the Institutional Review Board, APA style, literature search, descriptive, survey, and experimental research methodologies, statistical analysis, interpretation and presentation of results, and the final written product of scientific work. Students participate in a number of research-related activities, including the replication of important research in consumer behavior as well as conducting their own original research. Psychology majors only. Students take either PSY 203 or PSY 334; they may not take both. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 387 (grade of C or better).
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PSY 337 - Positive Psychology with Laboratory (W)
4 Credit(s)
Positive psychology is the empirical study of positive emotion (e.g., happiness), positive individual traits (e.g., resilience), and positive institutions (e.g., effective schools). This course will introduce you to the history and theory behind positive psychology, and the findings and applications of research in the field. We will study how psychology can improve the lives of individuals and the functioning of institutions. In addition to studying research in the field of positive psychology, you will apply what you’ve learned in in-class and independent research projects. Students should leave the course with an improved understanding of how the study of psychology can improve lives of everyday people. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 grade of C or higher, PSY 387 grade of C or higher
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PSY 338 - Adulthood and Aging With Laboratory (W)
4 Credit(s)
This course focuses on adult development and aging and changes in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. The specific goals of this class are: 1) to study the process of aging in adulthood, including the gains and losses associated with physiological and psychological aging; 2) to understand the social influences on this process, such as culture, race, income, age, and social class; and 3) to increase awareness of aging and ageism. In addition, students learn about the research process in the field of adulthood and aging. This includes the use of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, statistical analysis, interpretation of results, and writing an empirical research article. This laboratory fulfills a social/developmental advanced elective. Students take either PSY 212 or PSY 338; they may not take both. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 (grade C or better), PSY 385 (grade C or better), and PSY 387 (C or better).
Formerly: Human Growth and Development II With Laboratory
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PSY 339 - Relationships and Development with Laboratory (W)
4 Credit(s)
This course takes an in-depth look at close relationships as a key context for human development. Through lecture and lab activities, students will learn about developmental competencies that underlie our ability to form and maintain close relationships, as well as how relationships with parents, friends, and romantic partners shape development across the lifespan. Students will gain experience with multiple research methodologies as well as ethical concerns unique to studying children and adolescents. Students will design and conduct experiments and write laboratory reports. Psychology majors only. Students must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 grade of C or higher, PSY 387 grade of C or higher
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PSY 355 - Biological Psychology
3 Credit(s)
An introduction to the anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology of the nervous system and its role in experience and behavior. Topics include the biological basis of perception, memory, motivation, emotion, and mental illness.
Satisfies science or social science distribution requirements. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
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PSY 375 - Counseling Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Theories and methods used in therapeutic interventions with individuals are emphasized. In addition to readings and lectures, the course includes practice at introductory-level skills and class presentations. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Applied domain
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105
Formerly: Counseling and Psychotherapy
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PSY 376 - Psychological Assessment
3 Credit(s)
A critical examination of potentials and limitations of the presently used tests of intelligence, achievement, aptitude, interests, attitudes, and personality. The use of tests in educational and psychological research, counseling and guidance, and industry is also examined. The development, use, and standardization of tests for evaluation and research is included. Students cannot receive credit for both ED 376 and PSY 376.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 .
(SAME AS ED 376)
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PSY 385 - Statistical Methods with Laboratory for Psychology
4 Credit(s)
This is a course for those who wish to analyze data from their own research, as well as understand the presentation of others’ analyses. Topics include methods for graphing data, descriptive statistics such as measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation and regression, and simple probability theory. Inferential statistics covered include t-tests, ANOVA, and non-parametric statistics such as chi-square. The use of SPSS, a statistical software package for the social sciences, is essential to this course. Students learn how to enter and analyze data, interpret results, and perform a wide range of statistical functions using SPSS. This course is required of psychology majors. Students may not receive credit for both PSY 385 and another statistical methods course such as UALH 390 , CJ 380 , ENGR 315 , MATH 373 , POLS 310 , QA 251 , or QA 252 .
This course may not be used to satisfy the social science general education requirement. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements and advance to PSY 387 .
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 (grade C or better) and completion of MATH 114 or above with a grade of C or better.
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PSY 387 - Research Design and Laboratory for Psychology
4 Credit(s)
This course teaches the application of scientific method to the study of human behavior. Topics include the relationship between theory, hypotheses and empirical research, ethical considerations of research with humans, laboratory and field experimental methods, survey research, participant observation, and the use of documents and available data. The laboratory reinforces the theoretical issues covered in the lecture portion of the course. Students complete structured, hands-on exercises with experimental and non-experimental research methods in psychology. Students use the computer to analyze data, conduct literature reviews, and write research reports. Required of psychology majors. Psychology majors must receive a “C” or better in this course to satisfy psychology major requirements.
Prerequisite(s): Junior status and minimum grade of C in PSY 385 for psychology majors. Must achieve a grade of C or better to advance to PSY 409 .
Formerly: (FORMERLY PSY 382 AND 384)
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PSY 388 - Special Topics in Psychology
1-4 Credit(s)
Topics offered in response to student and faculty interest.
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PSY 394 - Applied Psychology Practicum
3 Credit(s)
The Applied Psychology Practicum is an experiential learning course that provides students with an opportunity to earn academic credit for discipline-specific career-related work. The practicum enables students to engage in fieldwork in an applied setting. Placements include I/O psychology, human resources, physical therapy clinics, research, government agencies, rehabilitation centers, and other appropriate settings. Students are required to work 75 hours per semester for three credits under the supervision of a practicing professional. They are also required to serve as an ambassador for Widener University and for the Psychology Department at the placement site. Students connect their field experiences to the psychology content through reflection and discussion in the seminar.
Requisite(s): Two psychology courses at or above the two-hundred level; completion of PSY 293 with a grade of a “C” or better or with permission of instructor for students enrolled in the 3+3 PSY/Pre-PT program; a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.80 and a GPA in the psychology major of at least a 3.0; must be a junior (students in the 3+3 program can take this course during their sophomore year); and complete a practicum application and all other corresponding paperwork with the psychology practicum coordinator.
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PSY 395 - Clinical-Counseling Psychology Practicum
3 Credit(s)
Students in this course gain valuable training and work experience at human service agencies, and serve as an ambassador for Widener University and for the Psychology Department at the placement site. Placements include mental-health facilities, educational intervention programs, school systems, drug and alcohol counseling programs, and other human service agencies in which students are able to exercise helping skills and put their knowledge of clinical/counseling psychology into practice. Students are required to work 75 hours per semester for three credits under the supervision of the field site supervisor at the placement site. In addition, students are required to connect their experiential learning experiences to the clinical/counseling psychology content through reflection and discussion in the seminar.
Requisite(s): Two psychology courses at or above the two-hundred level (one course must be in abnormal psychology); completion of PSY 293 with a grade of a “C” or better; a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.80 and a GPA in the psychology major of at least a 3.0; must be a junior; and complete a practicum application and all other corresponding paperwork with the psychology practicum coordinator.
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PSY 396 - Advanced Practicum
3 Credit(s)
The advanced practicum course is an experiential learning course in which students have an opportunity to gain extensive “real world” experience by working with industry leaders, psychologists, and psychology- related professionals in organizations involved in psychological research and practice. Placements include research, human service agencies, service delivery, human resources, and government agencies. This course serves as an alternate for an internship and provides students with in-depth training with another population at a different placement site than experienced in the applied or clinical-counseling practicum courses. Students are required to complete 75 hours of fieldwork and connect their fieldwork to the psychology content in the seminar. Students cannot take PSY 396 and PSY 423 /PSY 424 .
Requisite(s): A “C” or better in either PSY 394 or PSY 395 ; a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.80 and a GPA in the psychology major of at least a 3.0; must be a senior; and complete a practicum application and all other corresponding paperwork with the practicum/internship coordinator.
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PSY 409 - Senior Research in Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This two-semester course series involves designing and conducting an independent research project in psychology. To successfully complete this course series, students must pass both PSY 409 and PSY 410 . Note: If a student successfully passes PSY 409 but does not pass PSY 410 , both courses must be repeated to meet requirements for graduation.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of B in PSY 385 and PSY 387 and permission of the Department of Psychology.
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PSY 410 - Senior Research in Psychology
3 Credit(s)
This two-semester course series involves designing and conducting an independent research project in psychology. To successfully complete this course series, students must pass both PSY 409 and 410. Note: If a student successfully passes PSY 409 but does not pass PSY 410, both courses must be repeated to meet requirements for graduation.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of B in PSY 385 and PSY 387 and permission of the Department of Psychology.
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PSY 423 - Psychology Internship
3 Credit(s)
The psychology internship serves as one of the “capstone” experiences for senior psychology majors. This course series provides experiential learning in which students put their knowledge of psychology into practice. Students are required to gain extensive, real-world experience in a clinical or counseling setting. Placements include mental-health facilities, drug and alcohol counseling programs, educational intervention programs and school settings, and other human service agencies in which students are able to exercise helping skills and put their knowledge of clinical/counseling psychology into practice. Students complete 150 hours over the course of two semesters for a total of 6 credits. In addition, students connect the clinical/counseling context to the psychological practice by writing a paper in which they integrate psychological theories and research with fieldwork aspects of the clinical/counseling internship. Students cannot take both PSY 396 and PSY 423/425. Psychology majors only.
Requisite(s): A “C” or better in either PSY 394 or 395; a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.80 and a GPA in the psychology major of at least a 3.0; must be a senior; and complete an internship application and all other corresponding paperwork with the practicum/internship coordinator.
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PSY 424 - Psychology Internship
3 Credit(s)
The psychology internship serves as one of the “capstone” experiences for senior psychology majors. This course series provides experiential learning in which students put their knowledge of psychology into practice. Students are required to gain extensive, real-world experience in a clinical or counseling setting. Placements include mental-health facilities, drug and alcohol counseling programs, educational intervention programs and school settings, and other human service agencies in which students are able to exercise helping skills and put their knowledge of clinical/counseling psychology into practice. Students complete 150 hours over the course of two semesters for a total of 6 credits. In addition, students connect the clinical/counseling context to the psychological practice by writing a paper in which they integrate psychological theories and research with fieldwork aspects of the clinical/counseling internship. Students cannot take both PSY 396 and PSY 423 /425. Psychology majors only.
Requisite(s): A “C” or better in either PSY 394 or PSY 395 ; a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.80 and a GPA in the psychology major of at least a 3.0; must be a senior; and complete an internship application and all other corresponding paperwork with the practicum/internship coordinator.
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PSY 430 - Current Issues: Capstone Seminar
3 Credit(s)
This capstone course involves a survey of a wide range of issues in psychology. Students read and discuss recent journal articles with two goals in mind. The first is to gain proficiency in reading journal articles and the second is to become knowledgeable of the cutting edge in psychology. In addition to articles provided by the course instructor, the students find additional sources and use them to supplement class discussions. For psychology majors only.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 105 (grade C or better) and senior standing.
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PSY 488 - Special Topics in Psychology
3 Credit(s)
Topics offered in response to student and faculty interest.
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Quantitative Business Analysis |
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QA 251 - Elementary Statistics
3 Credit(s)
This course is an introduction to basic statistics. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to understand the importance of both descriptive and inferential statistics; display data in tabular and graphical form; apply summary statistics of measures of central tendency and the spread of a distribution; determine the probabilities of different events occurring; distinguish between discrete and continuous distributions and apply the correct distribution to situations; apply the Central Limit Theorem and the sampling distribution of the mean and proportion; distinguish between the concepts of systematic error and random error; apply the standard normal and t distributions to calculate probabilities; calculate confidence intervals for the population mean and proportion. Students will not be able to recieve credit for both QA-251 and MATH-119.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 117 or MATH 118 (or equivalent) and sophomore standing.Corequisite(s): MIS 180 .
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QA 252 - Intermediate Statistics
3 Credit(s)
This course combined with QA 251 or MATH 119 provides students with the basic statistical tools for decision-making. At the completion of this course, students should be able to perform one and two population hypothesis testing on population means and proportions; perform chi-square tests for goodness of fit and for independence; perform one-factor and two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA); calculate a simple regression and the associated statistics; analyze and interpret the output of simple and multiple regression; understand the trend, seasonal, cyclical, and irregular components of time-series; calculate seasonal indices; and seasonally adjust a time-series and perform nonparametric tests.
Prerequisite(s): QA 251 or MATH 119 , MIS 180 , and sophomore standing.
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Robotics Engineering |
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RE 101 - Introduction to Robotic Systems
1 Credit(s)
Students are introduced to the basic principles of microcontrollers through a hands-on robotic laboratory experience. The course covers building a robotic device, programming the embedded microcontroller in a high-level language, and testing the completed design to meet certain specifications.
One 2-hour laboratory per week.
Corequisite(s): ENGR 112 .
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RE 202 - Object-Oriented Programming for Robotic Applications
3 Credit(s)
This course provides an introduction to C++ programming and the concepts of object-oriented design, including functions, arrays, pointers, strings, classes, inheritance, abstract data types, encapsulation, member access control, constructors, and destructors, operator overloading, virtual functions, polymorphisms, I/O streams, templates, and exception handling.
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 112
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RE 301 - Signal Analysis in Robotic Systems
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on the representation, design, and analysis of continuous and discrete time signals in robotic systems. Topics include linear systems, frequency response, convolution, Laplace transforms, Fourier series, Fourier transforms, Nyquist sampling theorem, z transform, linear filters, and their applications to robotic systems.
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 219
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RE 302 - Mechanics of Robotic Systems
3 Credit(s)
Theory and application of mathematical models to analyze, design, and control serial kinematic chains (serial manipulators). Covers the forward and inverse kinematics, the manipulator Jacobian, trajectory planning, design, dynamics include Newton-Euler and Lagrangian methods and control.
Prerequisite(s): ME 351
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RE 303 - Programmable Logic Controller Laboratory
1 Credit(s)
A programmable logic controller (PLC) is a specialized industrial computer that can continuously receive inputs from sensors and other devices and create outputs based upon a user-defined program to control automated systems and processes in industries. This laboratory provides an introduction to basics of PLC using Allen Bradley PLC training system. Topics include hardware, programing ladder logic code using the RSLogix software, and hands-on projects.
Prerequisite(s): EE 230
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RE 304 - Object-Oriented Programming for Robotics Applications
3 Credit(s)
This course provides an introduction to C++ programming and the concepts of object-oriented design, including functions, arrays, pointers, strings, classes, inheritance, abstract data types, encapsulation, member access control, constructors, and destructors, operator overloading, virtual functions, polymorphisms, I/O streams, templates, and exception handling.
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 112 .
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RE 401 - Control of Robotic Systems
3 Credit(s)
Methods of controlling a serial manipulator to track a desired position using linear and nonlinear control methods. Analysis and design of continuous linear feedback control systems. Active force control and hybrid position/force control with a robot.
Prerequisite(s): EE 471
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RE 402 - Professional Seminar (W)
1 Credit(s)
Presentation and discussion of current engineering problems and solutions. This seminar familiarizes engineering students with professional ethical issues using case studies. The students will be able to analyze, reflect on, and act to resolve ethical issues arising from engineering decisions in accordance with the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) Code of Ethics for Engineers. This course is writing enriched.
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RE 403 - Introduction to Mechatronics
3 Credit(s)
Design, modeling, and simulation of electromechanical systems with computational elements that are designed to achieve behavioral response goals. Course topics include models and computer simulation of mechanical and electromechanical system elements, sensors, sensor information fusion computer interfacing, actuators, motors, and system performance evaluation.
Prerequisite(s): EE 471
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RE 404 - Mechatronics Laborartory (W)
2 Credit(s)
Laboratory illustrating topics covered in mechatronics. Lab sessions allow for constructing mechatronic systems that integrate mechanical, computer, and electronic components. A comprehensive design project is included.
Prerequisite(s): RE 302 and RE 303 Corequisite(s): RE 403
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Science |
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SCI M906 - World Geography
1.5 Credit(s)
The World Geography module is an introductory survey that examines the relationship between the physical features of the Earth and the various human societies that reside on it. The module introduces the study of geography, the problems geographers encounter, and the methods and tools used to solve these problems.
Does not satisfy the general education or distribution requirement in science.
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SCI 100 - Science Problem Solving
1 Credit(s)
Problems drawn from various areas of science, engineering, and daily life are used to help students develop strategies in problem solving. Measurement tools, physical objects, demonstrations, “manipulatives,” and the like are used to stress that the language of science refers to the real world and not simply to textbook examples. The course is taught in a laboratory setting to encourage free exploration of problem solving strategies and learning from others. Emphasis is placed on method and rationale rather than on correct answers. Students learn to justify solutions to problems in clear, logical language. One two-hour meeting weekly. Open to all students.
It does not count toward satisfying the science distribution requirement.
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SCI 107 - Food Science I
3 Credit(s)
An introductory science course directed at meeting the needs and interests of students enrolled in the Center for Hospitality Management. A foundation for understanding chemical reactions, particularly those pertinent to foods, will be developed by first examining the fundamental nature of molecules, in particular organic molecules. The molecular nature of foodstuffs and the most common and important transformations these undergo will then be discussed. Students may not receive credit for both SCI 107 and CHEM 100 .
This course, designed for nonscience majors, cannot be used to fulfill requirements for any major or minor in science.
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SCI 130 - Concepts of Music and Sound
3 Credit(s)
An introductory course which describes the basic physical principles of sound production, propagation, and perception and applies these principles toward an understanding of music. Topics include oscillations, wave motion, sound intensity, the ear and hearing, elemental ingredients of music, musical instruments, scales, and harmony. The course is designed for the musician and nonmusician alike and assumes no previous background in music, physics, or college mathematics.
Corequisite(s): SCI 132 is not a corequisite.
(SAME AS PHYS 130 )
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