2021-2022 Academic Catalog 
    
    May 15, 2024  
HELP
2021-2022 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses

 
  

  • PSCI 180 - International Organizations

    International Organizations (IOs) have grown in size, number, and institutional capacity since the end of the Second World War to address various policy matters in the area of economics, trade, taxation, finance, intellectual property rights, environment, human rights, international security, and humanitarian intervention. The increasing complexity of the global political economy has made policy coordination and harmonization through international organizations absolutely necessary because of the absence of a centralized governing authority at the international level. As the demand for IOs have increased, they have also become more controversial and divisive with supporters seeking to strengthen them, while detractors are attempting to modulate their influence. This course will explore the complex roles international organizations play in navigating international politics and mediating transnational policy issues by concentrating on a select set of international organizations that are central to the day-to-day functioning of the global political economy.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 182 - International Security

    This course aims to provide an intellectual footing as well as the analytical tools necessary to understand and evaluate the concept and evolution of security as well as the origins and characteristics of major security threats confronting the international community. The course will explore differing interpretations of and approaches to international security, while also analyzing and critically evaluating a range of both ‘traditional’ and ‘new’ security threats and the utility and effectiveness of prevailing responses to those threats.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 185 - Political Discourse on Today’s College Campus

    As has become clear over the past year, many Americans regard college campuses with deep distrust. American colleges and universities are sometimes seen as bastions of liberal thought, places where students and faculty rarely take the time to seriously engage with the centrist and conservative ideas that hold sway in Washington, DC today. Clark, like many schools, prides itself on being different and unique as reflected in its motto: Challenge Convention. Change Our World. In today’s polarized political climate, however, it is important that we think about some of the controversies on college campuses today and how they are perceived by those outside the academy. In cases where these perceptions are not fair, we should try to defend, in a civil fashion, the things that take place at Clark.  In cases where critics have a point, we should think carefully about what we might do to welcome different points of view.  The goal of this class is to help you understand how others see our community and how we can think objectively about the political choices our community has made about how we discuss controversial issues.  Topics considered include speech policies, the political views of faculty and students, the ways in which colleges prepare students for civic engagement, and the role of media and outside funding in campus activities.

    This is a half unit course graded Pass/Fail

    Course Designation/Attribute: POP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSCI 193 - International Relations of Asia

    The focus of this course will be on international relations of Asia broadly conceptualized from Afghanistan-Pakistan-India to China, Japan, Korea, and the smaller states of South-East Asia, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. In this course we will examine the complex inter-linkages from South Asia through the Asia Pacific region focusing on such aspects as the conflict in the Korean Peninsula, particularly the impact of rogue behavior of North Korea on South Korea and Japan and its implications for U.S.-China, U.S.-Korea, and U.S.-Japan relations; cross-straits (China-Taiwan) relations, and we will especially examine the growing economic and military assertiveness of China both within and outside the Asian region. The triangular competitive relationship involving Pakistan-India-China will also be studied; in particular we will focus on how the complex set of relations in South Asia involving Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, United States, and China dynamics the international politics of the region. Beyond this dynamic, we also examine the implications of the emergence of China and India as major economic and military powers. In addition, we will always keep the focus on the intersection of foreign relations of Asian countries with the dominant superpower, the United States and to some extent on the European Union. Besides China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong (PRC), the Asia-Pacific region includes the ASEAN powers of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Brunei, and the Indo-China states of Burma, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Increasingly the economic and political relations of Australia and New Zealand are intertwined with the fortunes of the Asia-Pacific region; so we will touch upon these issues in peripheral manner. In this course we will draw both from the theoretical as well as the empirical literature on international relations while keeping our focus on Asia.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 203 - Political Theorists and their Theories

    Focuses on one or two people whose theories have influenced ideas about power, governing, liberty, equality and justice. Explores their lives and the societies and events that shaped their ideas. Theorists who have been featured include Hannah Arendt, Alexis de Tocqueville, Erich Fromm, Karl Marx and Plato. Spring 2022 semester’s topic is 19th and 20th century radical political thought. Readings include anarchist, communist, neo-Marxist, and fascist political thought and some critiques of them.

    (THEORY)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 204 - The American Presidency

    Examines the president’s changing role in American politics, evolution of the modern presidency, selection and nomination process, relationships with other political institutions and presidential character. Explores proposed reforms for the future.

    (US)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 050  or permission of instructor.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 205 - U.S. Campaigns and Elections

    Examines election and campaigns from a number of different perspectives: the theoretical underpinnings of American elections, their historical development, the rules by which campaigns are governed, and the strategies that candidates follow in pursuit of office. Although the focus is almost exclusively on national (presidential and congressional) elections, it is the goal of the course to examine the process of elections from a standpoint that will enable students to understand and analyze the electoral process at various levels of government. The primary system, the role of the media, and the issue of campaign finance, among other topics, are also explored.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 206 - Recent Political Theory

    Examines a central normative category of modern democracy from a number of different perspectives: historical development of a distinctly modern public sphere, the liberal and civic republican accounts of the public sphere, and feminist and postmodern critiques.

    (THEORY)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 207 - International Relations Theory

    This course provides an introduction to and in-depth examination of the predominant theories of International Relations. Students will devote themselves to the interpretation, comparison, evaluation, application, and critique of theoretical arguments about the nature and conduct of international relations, as advanced and refined in both historical and contemporary contexts. In the process, we will also consider the evolving ideas and prevailing ontologies undergirding the study of IR as well as some of the leading critiques of the field.

    (THEORY AND IR)
     

    Course Designation/Attribute: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 208 - Comparative Politics of Women

    Explores the roles, priorities, strategies and theories of women in the politics of industrialized and developing countries. Causes for changes or lack of genuine changes in women’s political influence are investigated to shed new light on those countries’ political systems. Discusses the politics of democratization, sexuality, labor and cross-race alliances. One or more previous courses in government or in women’s studies is strongly advised.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 209 - Minority Political Behavior

    This is a course for students interested in how minority group identity influences political behavior. While this course could be taught through the black/white binary, we will explore minority group identity broadly, covering race, ethnicity, immigrant status, religion, gender, and sexual orientation. This course is meant to examine the history and contemporary role of minority groups in the U.S. political system. We will focus on political relationships between several minority groups and their relationship to political participation, party affiliation, voting coalitions, and public opinion, in addition to other groups. Throughout American history, the United States passed laws to restrict the rights of racial and ethnic minorities to purposely keep them outside the political system. In recent years, there has been a growing trend by political parties and politicians to court minority voters and promote diversity. During this semester, we will take up this debate and explore the current state of racial and ethnic politics in the U.S. (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 213 - Policy Analysis

    How can society better determine what public problems exist? What policies will respond best to those problems? What impacts have public policies had? These are the questions that animate the policy analysis enterprise, which aims to improve public decision making. Introduces the structure, methods and subject matter of the field, helps students sharpen their analytic skills and explores several important public-policy issues. Students present and discuss concepts and methods and engage in an intense analysis simulation.

    (US)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 107  or other social-science methods course, or permission of instructor. Limited to juniors and seniors.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 214 - Mass Murder and Genocide Under Communism

    Is communism inherently genocidal? Do communism and mass murder necessarily go hand in hand? This course explores the origins, motivations and consequences of the brutal and deadly policies adopted in three very different communist regimes (the Soviet Union, China and Cambodia). We will also consider potential ways to avert mass killing and genocide.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 216 - Comparative Environmental Politics

    Over the course of the past several decades environmental degradation and sustainability have assumed major significance as public-policy issues, both within nations and internationally. However, given the transnational nature of many environmental problems, addressing such problems has proven to be particularly complex and difficult. This course examines the complex nature of environmental policy from both an international and comparative perspective. We will examine the specific challenges that the international nature of environmental problems poses for policy makers. We will also compare different national experiences and strategies for addressing environmental issues with an eye toward identifying the factors, which impede or facilitate success in promoting effective environmental policy.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 217 - Latino Politics in the U.S.

    Over 50 million Latinos reside in the United States today, making them the largest minority group in the country. The current population size, projected growth trajectory, and population density of Latinos in many political battleground states have made this group a favored topic among politicians, interest groups and mass media. Moreover, recent elections and public policy debates demonstrate the capacity of this community as a political force. Yet, what do we really know about the politics and opinions associated with the diverse and fast-growing Latino population? How are Latinos incorporated into American political life?  What difference does it make to be of Latino descent in the U.S.?  How and why are Latinos distinctive in their political attitudes and behaviors?  This course presents an in-depth examination of this important population

    (US)

    Course Designation/Attribute: DI

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSCI 218 - Punishment and Crime

    This class examines theories that seek to justify criminal punishment and then analyzes those theories in a series of case studies.  We will explore retributive theory (punishment because it is “deserved”), utilitarian theory (punishment because of the consequences that it will produce), and expressive theory (punishment that expresses social values). Thereafter we will take up a number of specific case studies: homicide, conspiracy, attempt, the law of self-defense, hate crimes, and the death penalty.  Our goal throughout the course will be to consider the ways in which criminal law enforcement allows us to better understand our society and its values.

    Prerequisites: first year with permission only.
     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every other year
  

  • PSCI 226 - International Political Economy

    Focuses on political determinants of international trade and finance, and to a lesser extent, it is also about the economic determinants of international politics. In this course, we will learn how the international economic system has evolved and examine how we arrived at this pivotal juncture called the “global political economy.” We will study how the international political mechanism and historical forces led to the acceptance of certain economic models, theories and ideas. Particularly, the focus will be on actual international economic processes, their inner workings and interlinkages. We will analyze how domestic political alignments influence a country’s trade and tariff policies. Why do some countries make decisions that seem to defy conventional economic logic? Why do some countries choose to trade more and why do some countries choose to restrict international trade? More importantly, in this course we will try and unravel the mysteries behind the “international market system.” How does it work? And what are its benefits and consequences?

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 229 - Arab-Israeli Conflict

    This course (formerly PSCI 176) will introduce students to the domestic and regional dynamics of the Arab-Israeli conflict. We will explore the origins of the conflict, including the narratives embraced by all of the parties involved, as well as its consequences for the state and non-state actors who are parties to the conflict. We will also conduct model peace negotiations and discuss the possibilities for resolution of the conflict in the future.
  

  • PSCI 232 - Chinese Politics

    Is China rising, crumbling, or shifting? This course introduces students to the world of Chinese politics.  After a brief review of the Mao era, we will turn to the economic reform period (1980 - present) and its effects on contemporary issues such as the environment, political reform, democratization, social protest, and legal institutions. Each week we will discuss a different topic in China’s development and think critically about its implications for the regime and the Chinese people. Throughout the course we will build an understanding of Chinese history, leadership goals, and socio-political challenges. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify and compare key political issues in the country and critically evaluate China’s prospects for future political and economic reform. No prior knowledge of China or Chinese politics is required before taking this course.

    (CP)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Once a year
  

  • PSCI 235 - Money and U.S. Politics

    In this course we will consider the role that money plays in American elections and evaluate current and past proposals for campaign finance reform. We will discuss patterns in individual and group contributions to candidates, groups, and parties, with attention the relationships between givers and receiversthat is, what donors expect to get in return for their contributions, and how politicians court individual donors. We will also consider the effect of independent political spending and issue advocacy. We will make use of publicly available information on campaign finance at the national and local level, and we will develop a collaborative project to address the perceptions of local politicians on the role money plays in their campaigns.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 238 - U.S. Foreign Policy

    This course identifies and analyzes the historical, cultural, institutional, economic and political influences and constraints shaping both the US foreign policy process and the policy outcomes of that process. Particular attention will be paid to the evolution of America’s grand strategy and major foreign policy initiatives during and after the Cold War, with the objective of providing students with a basis for understanding and critically evaluating the major foreign policy issues and challenges facing the United States in the contemporary international system.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 240 - Human Rights and International Politics

    In recent years, questions of human rights and humanitarian concerns have been central to debates on such varied issues as U.S. relations with China, NATO’s role in the former Yugoslavia, and the United Nation’s place in the international system. The more general question of whether foreign policy should be based strictly on national interests or also include moral considerations has been long-standing, but it is particularly relevant in a post-Cold War world where national interests and priorities are less clear. Appeals to students interested in learning more about current policy disputes and in further exploring the impact of ideas in international politics.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 241 - Special Topics in American Politics

    This course addresses current or timely topics. Special Topics can vary from semester to semester; the course focus changes with each offering, depending on the faculty interest.

    May be repeatable for credit.

    Intersession 2020 - Topic: CYBER LAW AND POLICY

    Changes in technology, especially changes in the technology of communication, have historically been a kind of “stress test” on the law.  As the internet, and digital technologies of all kinds, have become an integral part of society, the legal system continues to struggle with fundamental questions such as: How much should the operators of Facebook, YouTube, Reddit, Yelp, or similar sites be responsible for content?; Does the First Amendment require that pornography be widely available on the Internet (and does it require that we tolerate “revenge porn” as well)?; Should we really have an expectation of privacy in personal data we freely share with Instagram and our cell phone provider?; How can the value of copyright be protected when anyone can distribute perfect digital copies of music and video to the whole world?  These and similar questions will be discussed in this course through a review of the legislation and case law that define the ever shifting legal boundaries of the digital world.

    Fall 2020 Semester Topic: AMERICAN CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

    The current constitutional order represents a series of arrangements that have often been the result of countless legal and political decisions.  While courts and judges play a critical role shaping their development, they are also influenced by political actors, as well, such as executives and legislators - both at the national and state level- parties, social movements, public opinion, and so forth.  The course covers the intricacies of American constitutionalism and its institutional framework, including the framing of the Constitution in 1787, the development of the three branches, and the evolution of federalism.  By gaining a better appreciation of the broader legal and political context of these changes, we shall address the proper role of the Supreme Court in a representative democracy, the purview of legislatures and voters, the balance between the president and Congress, and the relationship between the federal government and the states.  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 242 - Special Topics in Comparative Politics

    This course addresses current or timely topics. Special Topics can vary from semester to semester; the course focus changes with each offering, depending on the faculty interest.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 248 - Special Topics in International Relations

    This course addresses current or timely topics. Special Topics can vary from semester to semester; the course focus changes with each offering, depending on the faculty interest.

    May be repeatable for credit.

    SPRING 2020 TOPIC: TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE - This course will deal with the problems and challenges faced by any country that attempts to establish accountability for past abuses of human rights in the aftermath of conflict or internal upheaval. The initial classes will offer a history of international accountability since the groundbreaking Nuremberg trials following the Holocaust and then examine the various philosophical and moral issues associated with this subject. Subsequent classes will analyze the pros and cons of all of the major strategies and mechanisms available for the pursuit of post conflict justice including the international ad hoc criminal tribunals for Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia (the ICTR and the ICTY), the International Criminal Court (the ICC), and the” hybrid” tribunals in Sierra Leone and East Timor. The course will also examine the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions that have been employed in a range of cases, including South Africa, Guatemala, and East Timor (now Timor Leste) as well as the various informal transitional justice indigenous mechanisms that have been tried in various countries including Uganda and Rwanda. The final classes of the semester will be devoted to the challenges associated with the reconstruction of the domestic justice system in post conflict countries and will consider non-criminal sanctions and deterrents such as lustration (vetting) and reparations.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 250 - U.S. National Security

    Explores domestic and international politics of American national security policy, including the use of force, arms control and diplomacy. Examines the historical background and principal policy-making institutions in security policy particularly the gap between civilians and the military. Historical and Contemporary case studies focus on the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, Bosnia and 2003 invasion of Iraq.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 252 - Political Parties and Interest Groups

    This course examines the development, maintenance, and goals of interest groups and political parties in the United States.  Topics include the history of groups and parties in American politics, group and party classification methods, characteristics of group or party members and activists, regulations governing group and party activities, and selected contemporary issues of relevance. (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: periodically
  

  • PSCI 253 - U.S. Judicial Politics

    Explores the relationships between the courts and other sectors of the American political system. Studies how judges are selected, how courts handle civil and criminal cases, judicial policy making, and how interest groups use the courts.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 255 - The Politics of U.S. Congress

    Examines contemporary politics of the U.S. Congress from individual and institutional perspectives. Includes Congressional elections, differing views of representation, House-Senate differences, Congressional policy making, relationships between Congress and the courts, the presidency, the bureaucracy and interest groups, and the future of the institution. PSCI 050  is highly recommended.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 256 - Russian Politics: From Dictatorship to Democracy and Back Again

    In this introduction to the study of Russian politics, we will explore how a single political party has come to dominate the national stage, while opposition politicians are jailed, human rights are violated, and journalists fall victim to assassins’ bullets. In many ways, Russia appears to be turning back into a dictatorship only 15 years after throwing off seven decades of repressive communist party rule. Why and how has this happened? Through lectures, discussions, and films, we will examine contemporary Russia’s politics, economics, and culture. The course will touch on Russia’s history from 1917 to 1991, but our main focus will be on the contemporary period. (CP)

    Course Designation/Attribute: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 257 - Comparative Courts and Law

    Examines the court systems, legal systems and role of the legal profession in various North American and Western European countries, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Luxembourg and Germany. Comparisons include the concepts of judicial review, constitutionalism and the role of the courts in the broader governmental system. The course will also explore how the European Union and the Canadian Supreme Court will integrate the legal system from both the Common Law and Civil Law legal traditions.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 260 - Democratic Theory

    This course fulfills the political-theory requirement for the political science department. It traces the development of democratic theory from its origins in ancient Athens to the present day. We examine how diverse conceptualizations of democracy address key issues in democratic theory and practice, including the constitution of liberty, equality and political authority; the definition and actualization of citizenship; the proper relationship between the individual and the state; the proper balance between majority and minority rights; and the best means for citizens to participate in democratic government. We consider each of these key issues through our reading of influential works in the development of democratic theory and our active discussion of these works. This reading and discussion will enable us to broaden both our understanding of the democracy in which we live and our role as citizens within it. Formerly PSCI 156. Not open to students with credit for PSCI 156.

    (THEORY)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 266 - International Law

    This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts, principles, institutions, and debates that characterize international law in a globalized world. Focusing on a number of key issue-areas this course investigates the origins and development of international law; particularly, it seeks to examine how international law influences the subjectivities, competences and responsibilities of the participant member states, and their consequent impact on state sovereignty, use of force, humanitarian intervention, international criminal tribunals, and other transnational legal mechanisms. The overall purpose of this course is to introduce and lay the foundation for an informed analysis on the limits and possibilities of international law in world affairs.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year.
  

  • PSCI 268 - Peace and War

    Through an examination and analysis of the various theories in the field of international relations as related to the origins, duration, and conclusion of wars. Looking at both historical and contemporary cases, we will assess the factors that contribute to the outbreak of war (i.e., nationalism, territory, economics and security dilemmas) as well as the emergence of peace (i.e., international institutions, alliances and the balance of power). The course concludes with an exploration of the challenges for preventing future wars and enhancing the possibility of peace.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: ANNUALLY
  

  • PSCI 272 - U.S. Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties and Rights

    Focuses on the historic and contemporary role of the U.S. Supreme Court in interpreting the U.S. Constitution. Includes cases dealing with freedom of religion and speech, privacy, discrimination and equal protection. Students may take PSCI 272 and PSCI 273  in any order.

    (US)

    Course Designation/Attribute: DI

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 273 - U.S. Constitutional Law: Governmental Powers

    Focuses on the historic and contemporary role of the U.S. Supreme Court in interpreting the U.S. Constitution. Includes cases dealing with powers of Congress and the President, federalism and economic rights. Students may take PSCI 272  and 273 in any order.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 280 - Politics of Food and Drink

    How are policies surrounding food production, nutrition, and alcohol consumption developed in the United States? Who influences these decisions and in what ways?  For instance, what is the connection between poverty and obesity, and how should the government respond to these challenges?  How can we understand the recent rise in interest for local, organic, and fair trade food, and should policies actively promote these choices?  How does freedom of speech influence debates over food advertising and labeling? The course will explore these and other ethical and political questions related to food and drink in the U.S. We will examine the development of state and national policies as well as key rulings by state and federal courts. While the focus is primarily on domestic politics, throughout the semester we will also discuss comparative examples from across the globe, examining the wide range of factors that influence agriculture, food and drink, and nutrition policies, programs, and choices.  We will also consider the role of international organizations and international trade agreements.

    (US)

    PSCI CAPSTONE (NOT AN LAS CAPSTONE)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 050  or instructor permission; JRS & SRS ONLY

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every other year
  

  • PSCI 281 - Civil Wars in Comparative Perspective

    This seminar will offer students the chance to explore the causes and consequences of civil war through a comparative approach by looking at evidence from civil wars around the world. We will also explore other issues related to the conduct of civil war, including violence against civilians, the use of child soldiers, and the problem of refugees. Finally, we will evaluate some of the competing arguments for and against negotiated settlement, partition, or other means of ending civil wars and moving toward post-conflict reconstruction. (CP)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 069  OR PSCI 070  OR PERM; JR/SR ONLY; CAPSTONE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 284 - Capstone Seminar: Popular Culture And International Relations (IR)

    This course examines the connection between international relations (IR) and popular culture through the examination of different modes, or tools, of popular culture and how these intersect with international relations theories as well as exploring popular culture to understand historical events in IR (World War I and II; Cold War; Post-Cold War; and the Post-9/11 and War on Terror). Recognizing the interdisciplinarity of the study of popular culture, we will read works by scholars in other disciplines, including film and media studies, history, and geography. Questions this course will consider include: How does popular culture relate to IR? How are IR concepts and topics represented and reproduced in popular culture? How can IR theories explain popular culture? How do different actors-both state and non-state actors-use popular culture for political goals?

     

    Open to juniors and seniors only.

    Prerequisites: PSCI 069 OR INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION

    Course Designation/Attribute: CULMINATING / CAPSTONE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 286 - Advanced Topics in Comparative Politics - Capstone Seminar

    Focus changes each year depending on faculty interest.
    Open to Juniors and seniors. Can be taken twice.


    FALL 2021 Topic: SOCIAL MOVEMENTS AND CONTENTIOUS POLITICS: FROM THE FRENCH REVOLUTION TO BLACK LIVES MATTER.
    CAPSTONE - This seminar explores the politics of contention and political struggle from the theoretical lens of the social movement literature. Students will learn how to assess attempts at collective action by examining the origins, dynamics, and results of contention as well as the range of state responses to political challenges. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze forms of contention, tactics, framing, mobilizing structures, and outcomes for a variety of recent social movements, including Black Lives Matter. We will also focus on the role of media and technology as tools for communication, organization, and repression.
     

    Prerequisites: P = PSCI 070 OR INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION; JR/SR ONLY - CAPSTONE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 287 - Refugees, Migrants, and the Politics of Displacement

    Refugees, Migrants, and the Politics of Displacement: CAPSTONE
     
    In recent years, the number of forcibly displaced persons around the world has steadily grown. This seminar explores the causes and consequences of the global increase in forced migration, including the political and economic origins of refugee crises, their impact on the states that host refugees, the different dimensions of displacement as experienced by refugees and internally displaced persons, and possible solutions to crises of displacement. We will examine different cases studies of forced migration as a means of understanding the ways in which the various dimensions of the problem fit together.

    Prerequisites: PSCI 070  OR PERM; JR/SR ONLY - CAPSTONE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 288 - Immigration, Identity, and Diversity Politics in the US

    Today, one in ten residents of the U.S. was born outside the United States.  Yet, debates over immigration continue to permeate American life, from attempts to ban Muslim immigrants from entering the U.S. to questions about the status of undocumented immigrants to state and local proposals that would limit immigrants’ rights.  This course addresses these and many other issues, exploring the political and historical roots of contemporary US immigration policy as well as how immigration and immigrant groups have changed over time. We will also examine the integration of immigrants into the U.S., including the ways in which different groups are distinctive in their political attitudes and behaviors.  Additionally, we will study the varying ways in which immigrant communities and immigration policy continue to influence political debate in the U.S.

    Prerequisites: PSCI 050  

    Course Designation/Attribute: DI

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 289 - Advanced Topics in International Relations - Capstone Seminar

    Focus changes with each offering, depending on faculty interest. Recent topics: U.S. Foreign Policy; International Humanitarian Law; Terrorism; Intervention; and Ethnic and Nationalist Conflicts. Open to juniors and seniors. Can be taken twice.

     

    SPRING 2021 TOPIC: TERRORISM AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE. This seminar provides an in-depth exploration of terrorism and political violence. The course begins with an historically-informed examination of terrorism as a concept, followed by a comparative inventory of some of the major forms and practitioners of political violence. Upon concluding that inventory, we will appraise terrorism as a form of political behavior-in the process investigating relevant factors such as psychology and motivation, organizational structure, strategy and tactics, gender, and communication strategies. The final component of the seminar will be devoted to assessing counterterrorism in broad relief, with special attention dedicated to the effectiveness of various counter-terrorism strategies, their implications for civil liberties and democratic values, and their likely impact on the projected future of this form of political behavior.

    FALL 2020 TOPIC: GENDER AND SECURITY. This course uses IR theory, and particularly a gender/feminist analysis to explore, understand, and analyze the connection between gender and conflict. We will examine the ways in which conflict (and peace) is gendered, and the ways in which masculinities and femininities are contested-and utilized in support of and in opposition to conflict. We will study historical and contemporary cases of both interstate and intrastate conflict.

    Prerequisites: PSCI 069  OR INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION; JRS & SRS ONLY

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EACH SEMESTER
  

  • PSCI 290 - U.S. - Latin American Relations - Capstone Seminar

    This course examines the historical and contemporary relations between the United States and Latin-American countries. After a brief historical overview of U.S. foreign policy toward Latin America, we explore various themes central to U.S.-Latin American relations. Topics include the impact of U.S. hegemonic rule; revolutionary challenges to U.S. hegemony; economic relations, including Dollar Diplomacy and NAFTA; defending national security, democracy and human rights; the “war on drugs”; and the Latin Americanization of the United States. While we seek a deeper understanding of common patterns in U.S.-Latin American relations, the course also emphasizes the uniqueness of national experiences.

    (CP AND IR)

    PSCI CAPSTONE (NOT AN LAS CAPSTONE)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 069  OR PSCI 070  ; OR INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION; JRS & SRS ONLY

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 291 - Lawyers and U.S. Politics - Capstone Seminar

    Examines the role played by lawyers in American politics. Topics include lawyers in private practice, lawyers in legislatures, lawyers as judges, lawyers as lobbyists, government-agency lawyers and academic lawyers.

    (US)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 050 , LAS050, OR PERM: JR/SR ONLY - CAPSTONE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 292 - U.S. Urban Policy - Capstone Seminar and Internship

    This course is designed as a capstone primarily for advanced-level Political Science majors in the American Politics and Public Policy subfield and students pursuing the Urban Development and Social Change concentration. The readings and seminar sessions will explore the major factors and actors that influence city government policy-making, implementation, and outcomes. A broad range of topics will be considered, with special focus on economic development and redevelopment, neighborhood revitalization, and housing policies. In order to gain an understanding of the perspectives and actions of urban policy-makers and shapers students will also do an internship either with a Worcester city government elected official; the head of a city government agency or program; or the director of a neighborhood community development or housing non-profit organization. “Hands-on” learning through the internship will be shared periodically in seminar sessions. Limited to 12 students juniors and seniors. (Formerly GOVT 221).

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 293 - Special Topics in Political Theory

    This course addresses current or timely topics, that are in a pilot phase or that are known to be one time offerings.  Special Topics can vary from semester to semester.

     

    May be repeatable for credit.



     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: varied
  

  • PSCI 294 - Peer Learning Assistant

    Peer Learning Assistants (PLAs) are undergraduate students who are selected by a faculty member to facilitate teaching and learning activities. These activities may include: providing feedback on drafts of writing assignments, leading small group discussions, working with individual students who are having difficulty, and facilitating group project work (in or out of class & online).
    Registration is by instructor permission only
     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall & Spring
  

  • PSCI 295 - Globalization and Democracy - Capstone Seminar

    How does globalization affect democracy? As economics, politics, military action and social-change movements have become increasingly transnational, have state leaders become less accountable to their populations, and are they under little pressure to build liberal democratic institutions? Or has the increasingly global system been good for democratic state-building? Have transnational forces successfully pressured states to observe human rights and fight against corruption? Do they encourage state leaders to build accountable economic and legal institutions? We will examine a variety of states and their struggles to consolidate liberal democracies, including: Sierra Leone, Cambodia and Russia.

    (CP AND IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 296 - Advanced Topics in American Politics: Capstone Seminar

    This course changes with each offering, depending on the faculty interest.

    SPRING 2021 TOPIC: FIXING AMERICAN DEMOCRACY 
    There is widespread, bipartisan agreement that American democracy has become increasingly unable to respond to the needs of voters.  In this course we will consider the pros and cons of a range of proposals to improve government.  Topics include electoral reforms (such as changes to congressional districting, primary elections, the Electoral College, campaign finance, and voting rules), reforms to the powers of the presidency and congress, and efforts to address the power of social media corporations.  We will consider arguments from liberals and conservatives about the effects of these proposed changes.  Students will select one proposed reform and write a detailed capstone paper evaluating the feasibility and consequences of that reform. 

    May be repeatable for credit.

     

    Prerequisites: Prerequisite:  PSCI 050  or permission of the instructor. 

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 297 - Honors

    Students receive variable credit for advanced research and readings in the honors program.  Applications are due in March of junior year.  Approval of department honors committee required.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall/Spring
  

  • PSCI 298 - Internship

    Academic experience taking place in the field with an opportunity to earn credit.  Application must be submitted to Career Services for their approval.  Student needs to find a faculty member sponsor.
  

  • PSCI 299 - Directed Study

    Undergraduates, typically juniors and seniors, construct an independent study course on a topic approved and directed by a faculty member.  Students should contact faculty member directly.  Offered for variable credit.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall and Spring
  

  • PSYC 020 - Topics in Men and Emotion

    One of the most pervasive gender stereotypes in Western societies is the belief that men “aren’t emotional.” In this inquiry-based seminar we will look at available scientific theory and research to determine just how accurate this stereotype is. Do men actually experience and express emotions differently than women? Is this true for all emotions or just some more than others? How can an enhanced understanding of the gendered nature of men’s emotional experiences help us in promoting human well-being for both men and women? In addition to immersing ourselves in existing research, we will also carry out a new research study on masculine gender socialization and emotion. Students will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data focused on a research question that we will formulate early in the semester. Fulfills the Values perspective. First year students only.

    Course Designation/Attribute: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically.
  

  • PSYC 040 - Topics in Discourse

    Through class exercises and small group work, we will learn fundamental principles, generalizations, and theories in a new area of knowledge around issues of language/discourse. The topics in discourse will vary each semester based on current and relevant issues. Fulfills the Language and Culture Perspective requirement (LP).

    Fall 2021:

    1) Maori language and culture and 2) friendship:

    In two strands running parallel throughout the semester, we will jointly learn Maori and explore how we talk about ourselves and others as friends – and make sense of friendship as an intimate relationship. In individual projects, we will be interviewing three members of the same family (adolescent, adult, and elderly) on their friendship experiences, and we will analyze these experiences through the Language and Culture Perspective. Students are expected to commit themselves to a high-level academic atmosphere and a challenging workload that will result in stimulating class discussions. Enrolled students must register for a discussion section, and participation in a weekend session is required.

    Course Designation/Attribute: LP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall
  

  • PSYC 050 - The Psychology of Prejudice

    Psychology of Prejudice
    Why does prejudice exist? How does it affect ourselves, our relationships, and our society? In this first-year intensive, we we will explore these questions by turning to the scientific literature. Students will explore a variety of topics in the psychology of prejudice, including cognitive processing (e.g., categorization, activation, application), content and structure, expression, sociostructural causes and consequences (e.g.,power, status, threat), and their reduction or elimination (e.g., prejudice reduction, intergroup interactions, social change). Throughout the seminar, we will discuss a variety of different prejudices, including prejudice against racial minorities, sexual minorities, women and marginalized genders, and other social groups. The goals of this course are to (1) provide students with an in-depth understanding of prejudice and how they affect social and political reality, (2) critically examine theory and metatheory guiding research on stereotypes and prejudice, and (3) learn how researchers study stereotypes and prejudice.

    Course Designation/Attribute: GP, DI

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Biennially
  

  • PSYC 060 - Education and Effective Practice

    What is the best form and structure for education in these times? How do we best improve the quality and intellectual aims of education? To what extent are our current educational institutions utilizing the growing knowledge base about how people learn?  Is education a right and does it equitably deliver on the promise of providing a well-balanced citizenship for democracy? These and other questions will be the focus of this First Year Intensive seminar. The course will consider what we currently know about human learning in formal and informal settings and map that onto the educational institutions of our times, with special focus on secondary and college environments. This course is designed to deepen students’ ability to read analytically and communicate with others about one of the most enduring issues of our times. Simultaneously, the course aims to improve first year students’ ability to reflect on the differences in their learning contexts as they transition from high school to college.

    Prerequisites: VE Placement

    Course Designation/Attribute: VE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSYC 070 - The Pursuit of Happiness

    What is happiness? What are different cultural views of happiness and how to achieve it? Do our pursuits for happiness actually make us happy? How can misconceptions about the pursuit of happiness lead to dissatisfaction and distress? In this First Year Intensive (FYI) seminar, we will explore these and other questions by considering research findings from positive psychology, cognitive science, clinical psychology, and experiential learning activities. We will identify our own definitions of happiness, and consider how values, compassion, and well-being relate to our conceptions of happiness.

     

    Course Designation/Attribute: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSYC 080 - Zen and the Psychology of Contemplative Practice

    This FYI will examine contemplative practice as it is represented both within modern Western Zen traditions and the recent explosion of psychological research in cognitive neuroscience, affective science, and clinical psychology on mindfulness meditation. Emphasis will be placed on the practice of meditation, the history and origins of mindfulness practices, the scientific study of those practices, and adaptations of mindfulness practices by Western scientists for the treatment of psychological disorders and enhancement of well-being.

    Key questions this course will address include: 1) What is a contemplative practice and how is it practiced? 2) How does mindfulness influence psychological well-being? 3) What are the historical origins of mindfulness practices and how have such practices been adapted in the West? 3) How does Western empirical inquiry inform our understanding of mindfulness and its measurable effects?

     

    Course Designation/Attribute: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSYC 090 - Psychology of Bilingualism

    In this First Year Intensive, we will explore the impacts of bilingualism on development. Specifically, we will examine language and cognition development, as well as social interactions in bilingual communities. This discussion-based course will guide students through reading original source material. We will also be observing bilingual interactions in community spaces.

    Prerequisites: VE placement required

    Course Designation/Attribute: VE

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSYC 101 - General Psychology

    Introduction to the principles of human behavior and to the various sub-disciplines of Psychology. Students are required to either participate in a psychology study or to read an empirical article and write a short paper. No prerequisite. Unless otherwise noted, this course is a prerequisite to all other psychology offerings. Discussion attendance required.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 105 - Statistics

    Introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics for the social sciences. Discussion attendance required. Not recommended for students in their first semester.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better.

    Please see Placement Guidelines below.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Course Designation/Attribute: FA

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester

    Placement Guidelines
    Students must score 50% on Part 1 of the Math placement prior to enrollment, and may take this placement exam a maximum of two times.

    Students scoring under 50% will be required to take a refresher math course and pass with at least a “C” grade before being able to enroll in PSYC 105.

    (Contact the Psychology Department for a list of eligible courses)

    The math placement test can be found on Moodle under “My Courses” then “Placement Tests.”
  

  • PSYC 108 - Experimental Methods in Psychology

    Presents the principles of the scientific method and methods of experimental research in psychology. The relations between experimental design and quantitative analyses are examined. Students will participate in the design of an experimental study including a search of relevant literature, the collection of data and will submit a report of the experiment. Discussion attendance required.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101 , PSYC 105  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 109 - Qualitative Methods in Psychology

    Covers the principles of engagement in qualitative inquiry-with particular emphasis on observing, interviewing, and analyzing people in interaction. Classes take the form of a mix between lecture and discussion, supplemented by an individually conducted observation project, and an interview that is carried out as a small group project. Discussion attendance required.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 120 - Introduction to Cognition

    The course provides an overview of some of the cognitive processes such as vision, attention, memory, concepts, language, thinking, and consciousness. We examine the cognitive architecture of those processes and the biological mechanisms that underlie them. The objective of the course is to familiarize students with some of the concepts and findings cognitive psychologists have developed and to stimulate critical thinking.

    Must register for discussion.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Basic Processes requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 130 - Psychology of Learning

    Focuses on historical and current issues in the psychology of learning. Topics include: conditioning, learning in human and nonhuman species, cultures of learning, and understanding race as a feature of learning in schools.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Basic Processes requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 138 - Health Psychology

    Health psychology is a flourishing field that is devoted to understanding the interaction between psychosocial factors and health. This course provides a broad overview of theories, concepts, methods, and applications that form the core of health psychology. In this course, we will consider several areas of health and illness across the life span, including: stress and coping; the health care system; prevention and treatment of illness; etiology and correlates of health, illness, and dysfunction; and health promotion and maintenance. Students will also be encouraged to consider the ways in which psychological factors interact with social, cultural, economic, and environmental contexts to influence health.

    Must register for discussion.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Basic Processes requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Spring
  

  • PSYC 143 - Human Sexuality

    This course examines contemporary knowledge and attitudes towards human sexuality, relying on theoretical and empirical psychological research. Multiple perspectives are presented, including psychosocial, cross-cultural, and psychobiological. Sexuality across the life span is examined, including issues pertaining to: biological sexual differentiation, the sexual response cycle, intimacy and communication, varieties of sexual relationships and behavior, and sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. Emphasis is placed on the critical analysis and synthesis of research on sexuality in the context of current social and cultural influences.

    Must register for discussion.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Fulfills the Basic Processes requirement of the psychology major

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 144 - Interpersonal Psychology

     

    In this course students will learn about the science of interpersonal relationships. The course will focus specifically on what psychologists have learned about attraction and what people look for in a long-term partner, the experience of love and intimacy, communication in intimate relationships, the role of personality and personal history in relationship satisfaction, interpersonal conflict and problem solving, parenting and co-parenting, and therapies designed to improve and strengthen relationship health.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Basic Processes requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Annually
  

  • PSYC 150 - Developmental Psychology

    Discusses the development of biological, cognitive and social functioning from conception to adolescence. Emphasizes and contrasts theoretical approaches to conceptualizing changes in developing children in light of current research.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Fulfills the Developmental/ Cultural requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 152 - Adolescent Development

    This course is designed to introduce students to the major theories and research on adolescent development. The course emphasizes both individual development and cultural influences and encourages students to consider the influence of multiple settings, historical time, and individual differences on the adolescent experience. This course not only offers students the opportunity to learn in a text-and lecture-based setting, but also encourages students to draw upon their personal experiences, knowledge, and professional goals as guides for understanding the complexity of adolescent development and adjustment.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Fulfills the Developmental/Cultural requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 153 - Human Development Across the Lifespan

    This course will explore theory and research on human development from conception through old age. Areas of development considered will include biological, cognitive, and emotional functioning, as well as relationships with family members, peers and friends, and romantic partners. The course will draw on theory and research in psychology as well as sociology and anthropology. The cultural approach to development will be emphasized, that is, human development will be portrayed as taking markedly different paths depending on the cultural context.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Developmental/Cultural requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSYC 156 - Cultural Psychology

    Provides a systematic overview of knowledge about cultural organization of human psychological functions, and how psychology as a research discipline can study these functions. Strong theoretical and methodological orientation is included.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Developmental/Cultural requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every spring
  

  • PSYC 170 - Social Psychology

    Examines love, fear, conflict and other basic processes involved in group dynamics, interpersonal relations, community psychology, intergroup relations, organizational behavior and the interface between human nature and culture. These basic processes are related to the attempt to achieve a world of peace and justice. In addition to quizzes and a final exam, students are asked to apply their knowledge of basic processes in a personal or political action.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Fulfills the Social/Clinical requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  or Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered annually
  

  • PSYC 171 - Social Psychology of Intergroup Violence, Oppression, and Liberation

    Why do people kill and oppress each other? How is social inequality sustained? How can we explain racism, terrorism, and genocide? What enables people to work together to fight injustice and violence? This course is an introduction to social psychological theories and research that address these and many other related questions. The course is a survey lecture course that will provide a broad overview of the basic social psychological processes underlying violence and oppression (e.g., prejudice, group identities, threat, inequality dehumanization), the psychology of different forms of intergroup violence (racism, intractable conflict, genocide, terrorism), and psychological factors that promote or create an obstacle to liberation and social justice between groups (e.g., through collective action, solidarity, redress, and reconciliation). We will study these questions through the lens of many different conflicts and contexts around the world, including current social movements such as Black Lives Matter and recent events such as the war in Syria or genocide against the Rohingya. Activities in class, media depictions of current events, and blogging will be used to further deepen the knowledge we acquire on these topics through readings and class discussions. This course is designed not only for (future) Psychology majors but also for students working towards a concentration in Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies, Peace Studies, Holocaust and Genocide Studies, or anyone else who is interested in understanding why violence and injustice between different ethnic, racial, religious, and national groups occurs and what we can do about it.

    This course fulfills the Social/Clinical requirement of the Psychology major.

    Course Designation/Attribute: DI

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Annually
  

  • PSYC 173 - Introduction to Abnormal Psychology

    Discusses the manner in which abnormal behavior has been traditionally defined and the implications of these definitions. Provides a comprehensive overview of the major categories of abnormal behavioral disorders with an emphasis on theory and research (e.g., schizophrenia, affective disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, etc.). Special attention is paid to issues of assessment, intervention, legal issues and prevention.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Social/Clinical requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 175 - Introduction to Clinical Psychology

    Surveys various approaches to clinical assessment and intervention. Emphasizes the assumptions underlying alternative approaches and the actual activities of clinical psychologists. This course also covers special topics including ethics, health psychology, clinical neuropsychology and forensic psychology.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Social/Clinical requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 200 - Lab in Program Evaluation

    How does one know if new programs put in place are meeting the stated goals? Leaders interested in strengthening the quality of their programs and improve outcomes pertaining to human development and learning often turn to program evaluation as a valuable tool. Program evaluation provides insights into a program’s effectiveness; evaluation data can be used both to improve program services and individual learning. This course is designed to provide psychology majors a first-hand opportunity to participate in authentic research projects on program evaluation. Methods will not be taught in a vacuum; rather students will learn methods while working on ongoing program evaluation. Students will receive training in all phases, including formulating research questions, data collection and analysis, project management and reporting for actual users of our findings. Skills and experiences from this Problems of Practice class are valuable for students who are considering careers not only in psychology but also in fields where applying psychology research is useful, including educational settings, healthcare, human services, management, and sales and marketing.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the mid-level Lab/Research requirement for the psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 105  , PSYC 108  , PSYC 109  

    Course Designation/Attribute: POP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: varied
  

  • PSYC 201 - Lab in Social Psychology

    General principles of experimental design are learned through the design and performance of original experiments in experimental social psychology. This course covers various topics in psychology, with a focus on violence and nonviolence, intergroup relations, and power dynamics. Students are also involved in lab experience and writing research papers.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites:  PSYC 108  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 202 - Lab in Developmental Psychology

    A general introduction to conceptual issues related to research in the area of human development, with a particular focus on how cultural context impacts these changes. Students participate in group research projects involving observational and experimental techniques, and receive training in all phases of research, including formulating research questions, data collection and analysis, and report writing.

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    Prerequisites:  PSYC 105 , PSYC 108 , and PSYC 109  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 203 - Research in Stigma, Intersectionality, and Health

    This course provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to conduct research in the Stigma, Intersectionality, and Health Lab administered by professor Nicole M. Overstreet. The Stigma, Intersectionality, and Health Lab conducts research examining the connection between stigma and health on an individual, interpersonal, and structural level, with a particular focus on stigmatized attributes that are visible, such as race and gender, and those that are concealable, such as mental illness, sexual minority status, and HIV/AIDS. Students in this course will be responsible for a variety of research tasks, including, but not limited to, coding, data entry, data collection, data analysis, survey development, and scientific writing.  May be repeated for credit (3 times).

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites:   PSYC 105  , PSYC 108  , and Instructor’s permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall and Spring
  

  • PSYC 205 - Research in Child Development across Contexts

    This course provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to be involved in research under the supervision of Professor Ana Marcelo. Students in this course will be responsible for a variety of research tasks, including, but not limited to, data collection, data entry, data coding, data analysis, and data dissemination. Professor Marcelo’s research examines the different risk and protective factors in child development across different contexts, with a particular focus on cultural context.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the mid-level lab/research requirement of the psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 150   OR PSYC 152  OR PSYC 153  and Permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every semester
  

  • PSYC 207 - Lab in Cultural Psychology

    This lab focuses on the cultural organization of human psychological experience and human psychological functioning. Students will learn about the fundamental principles of cultural psychology, different schools of thought in cultural psychology, and what it means to have a research process that is inclusive of culture. The course combines literature, fieldwork, and collaborative research to learn, discuss, and develop the skills necessary to conduct cultural psychological research.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better.

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101   & PSYC 109  or Permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSYC 210 - Research on Ideology and Violence

    This course provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to conduct research in the Ideology and Intergroup Violence Lab administered by professor Andrew L. Stewart. Students in this course will be responsible for a variety of research tasks, including, but not limited to, data collection, data entry, data analysis, and scientific writing. The Ideology and Intergroup Violence Lab conducts research examining the etiology and prevention of intergroup violence, particularly in gender, race, nationality, sexual orientation, and other intergroup relations. This course may be repeatable for credit.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 105  , PSYC 108  , and Permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall and Spring
  

  • PSYC 211 - Fundamentals of Applied Research through Internship

    This is a mid-level internship course. Students will attend a weekly 3-hour seminar, and complete a placement at a local community organization. The main goal of this course is to provide you with the opportunity to apply and further develop your psychological knowledge and skills through an internship in a non-academic setting, while discussing these experiences and sharing skills with an academic community in a weekly seminar setting. The course is intended to serve as an opportunity for students to begin developing and exploring their own professional identity. This internship in applied psychology, and the community we will build in seminar, presents an opportunity for you to learn about work life from firsthand experience, to interpret workplace events and client service through a psychological perspective, and to employ students’ psychological knowledge and skills toward solving practical problems and meeting the needs of your internship site.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major
     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  , and at least 1 course from the basic processes, developmental, or social/clinical content areas (PSYC 120-175).

    Students will be required to complete an application in order to be placed in the course, and may need to attend some training or complete some screenings (such as CORI screening to work with youth) in advance of the start of the course.

    This course requires instructor permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Annually
  

  • PSYC 213 - Research on College Student Learning and Development

    Credit available: 1 unit or .5 units

    This course provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to be involved in research and its application under the supervision of Professor Nancy Budwig. Students in this course will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities pertaining to ongoing research. These will vary each semester but might include data collection, data processing, data coding, data analysis, and data dissemination. Professor Budwig’s research examines student learning and development, especially with regard to transitioning into and out of college using a framework that adopts an equity lens. This course considers how research can be applied to real world settings.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the mid-level lab/research requirement of the psychology major once a full unit of credit has been passed at the mid-level.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 108  & PSYC 109  & PSYC 150  OR PSYC 152  OR PSYC 153  , and Instructor’s permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every semester
  

  • PSYC 215 - Research on Child Mental Health

    This course involves students in ongoing research in Dr. Amy Heberle’s lab. Research in the lab addresses the etiology, prevention, and treatment of mental health problems in young children, particularly children growing up in poverty. Current areas of focus include critical consciousness as a potential protective factor for young children experiencing marginalizing systems and elementary and early educational interventions that promote thriving for children in poverty. Actual work depends on the stage of the research project, and may include literature reviews, data collection and follow-up, data analysis and interpretation, argument building, and writing and presentation of findings. This is a collaborative course where students work as a team on current research.

    This course fulfills the lab/research requirement of the psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 108  , PSYC 109  , and either PSYC 150  , PSYC 152  , or PSYC 153  . By permission of instructor.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every semester
  

  • PSYC 217 - Research in Learning, Language, and Cognition

    Dr. Esposito’s research focuses on learning and cognitive develop across contexts, including with bilingual and minority language speakers. Current research focuses on school-aged children. We are examining how children learn across different educational contexts (including language contexts) and what cognitive abilities and socio-cultural factors influencing learning and academic achievement. How does educational context influence cognitive development and academic achievement? Do children integrate knowledge across languages and modalities and, if so, how? How does context affect learning on both the macro level and the micro level? We are investigating these questions through experimental research in both the laboratory and school settings. Choose .5 or 1 unit during registration.

    May be repeated for credit.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 108  , PSYC 109  

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every semester
  

  • PSYC 221 - Research in Social Psychology

    Fall 2021:

    This course provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to conduct research on topics in social justice. Students in this course will have the opportunity to participate in various projects related to a) Youth development policy and practice (and the role of dominant ideologies like colorblindness and neoliberalism) and b) the Systemic Racism Curriculum Project (with an emphasis on whiteness and antiracist education). Students will be responsible for a variety of research tasks, including, but not limited to, data collection, data entry, data coding, data analysis, and scientific writing.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101 , PSYC 108 , PSYC 109  and Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSYC 223 - Research in Motivational and Emotional Development in Children and Adolescents

    Ongoing research on the effects of contexts (home, school, etc.) on the emotional and motivational development of children.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 108   and Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 224 - Research on Identity Development

    Designed to train students in an ongoing research project on the development of subjectivity and identity in and through discourse, particularly narrative discourse.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 109   and Instructor’s permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 225 - Research on Collective Victimization and Oppression

    This course involves students in ongoing research addressing the relations between members of different ethnic, national, religious, and racial groups. Most of these research projects focus on the role of past conflict and group-based victimization on current intergroup relations. Both destructive phenomena (such as hostility and revenge) and constructive phenomena (solidarity, reconciliation, and prosocial behavior across groups) will be studied. This course is grounded in social psychological literature and theories, and students will be exposed to multiple methods (ranging from content analysis of interviews to surveys and quasi-experimental studies).

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites:  PSYC 105 , PSYC 108 , PSYC 109  and Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 226 - Research in Men’s Mental Health

    Students will collaborate on studies of the way men experience, express, and respond to problems in living. Data collected include interviews, questionnaires, and other methods for exploring links between masculine gender socialization and men’s well-being.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better.

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101   & Instructor’s permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSYC 227 - Research on Addictive Behaviors

    This course involves students participating in ongoing research examining the etiology and treatment of addictive behaviors. This includes research projects investigating risk factors for relapse to substance use and treatment development for substance-using populations. Students will become familiar with basic theories, research methods, and research findings in addictions; actively participate in research team meetings; and develop competence in key research tasks.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 105 , PSYC 108 , PSYC 109 , PSYC 173 , and instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 229 - Research in the Development of Language

    Students participate in a research project concerning the interaction between language development and early literacy acquisition. Students are responsible for various phases of research, including literature reviews, data collection and analysis, and interpreting results.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 150  and Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSYC 230 - Current Topics in Psychology Research

    This course provides opportunities to participate in current faculty and/or graduate student research projects, in all stages of the research process, including conceptualization, data collection, data entry, analysis, and presentation. The specific focus changes from semester tosemester.Prerequisites require a minimum grade of C-.Fulfills the mid-level research requirement of the psychology major.

    May be repeatable for credit.

    SECTION 01 TOPIC: RESEARCH IN GENDER & BODY IMAGE - This course aims to prioritize women’s body experiences in psychological research and to better identify ways negative body experiences (body dissatisfaction, self-objectification, and social comparison) can be altered and improved. We will investigate the impact of a broad spectrum of sociocultural factors, including media, social media, family, peers, and cultural beliefs and messages on both disordered eating and eating disorder (ED) recovery trajectories. Current ongoing projects include a photographic exploration of the effect of COVID-19 and associated restrictions and life changes on women’s ED recovery experiences, the development and validation of new measures of body dissatisfaction and internalized weight stigma, and the adaptation and pilot-testing of a program to improve body satisfaction and reduce thin-ideal internalization amongst children. Research assistants will be involved in each phase of the research process, including conducting literature reviews, recruiting participants, and collecting and analyzing data.

    SECTION 02 TOPIC: DISPARITIES IN CHILDREN’S HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT- This course provides an opportunity to take part in research initiatives focused on disparities in asthma health care use. Students will be exposed to and participate in behavioral health research focused on ethnic minority and urban children and adolescents. A major focus of our work will be to apply a health disparities lens and critical race theory to understand children’s illness management, health care use, and  functioning and quality of life for children and their families. Students will be exposed to major components of mixed methods research  procedures integrating quantitative and qualitative data, including data collection, analyses, interpretation as well as manuscript development. 

    Prerequisites: For 2021-2022 PSYC 101

    Vary by offering. 

    Minimum grade of C- required. 

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSYC 231 - Couples Research

    This course involves undergraduate majors in all phases of ongoing research being conducted in the Couples Research Laboratory of professor James Cordova. Students will participate in weekly lab meetings. Depending on the phase that studies being conducted in the lab, students can be involved in project design, recruiting participants, interviewing participants, observing couples’ interactions and coding their behavior, gathering data, managing data and library research.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 105  , PSYC 108  and Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 232 - Research in Community

    This course provides a hands-on experience with conducting community/clinical psychology research through the Mental Health, Culture, and Community Research Program. Students will be actively involved in a variety of research projects that examine a range of topics, including cultural influences on the help-seeking process, emotion regulation and coping strategies, the development and expression of depressive symptoms, and the psychotherapy process. Current research projects take place in the local community, including local health organizations and schools. In order to maximize the experience on this project, students participate in a weekly class in which the theoretical underpinnings of the project are discussed. Students are also required to write a final paper and present a poster at Academic Spree Day.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better.

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101   & Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 235 - Research on Diverse Families and Sexualities

    This course involves undergraduates in all phases of ongoing research being conducted in the Diverse Families and Sexualities Laboratory of Professor Abbie Goldberg. The primary project that Dr. Goldberg’s team is working is The Transition to Adoptive Parenthood Project, a 15 year longitudinal study of heterosexual, lesbian, and gay adoptive parents, most of whom have adopted transracially, which focuses on parents’ experiences in a wide range of settings (e.g., their communities; their children’s schools). The most recent set of interviews with parents concerns how they navigate their child’s transition to puberty.

    Students will participate in weekly lab meetings. Students will also participate in transcribing participant interviews, coding data, entering data, and assisting with other lab tasks. To be accepted into the lab, students must: complete an application (see Dr. Goldberg’s website); meet a minimum GPA requirement; interview with Dr. Goldberg and a doctoral student; be able to articulate the intersection between their interests and career goals and the foci of/opportunities provided by the lab; and be able to commit to one year in the lab.

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the Lab/Research requirement of the Psychology major.

     

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101   and Instructor’s permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PSYC 236 - Stigma and Health

    This course provides an introduction to the phenomenological experience of stigmatization and will critically engage you to understand health consequences of stigmatization. In this course, we will examine perspectives on the origin and function of stigma and consider models that examine the connection between stigma and health on an individual, interpersonal, and structural level. We will also consider the health implications of living with stigmatized attributes within society. We will focus on stigmatized attributes that are visible, such as race and weight, and those that are concealable, such as mental illness, sexual minority status, and HIV/AIDS. Finally, we will consider multi-level interventions to reduce stigmatization and its downstream influence on individual health. 

    Prerequisites for this course require a grade of C- or better

    This course fulfills the mid-level First Seminar requirement of the Psychology major.

    Prerequisites: PSYC 101  ,  PSYC 108  , and PSYC 138  , or Instructor’s permission

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall
 

Page: 1 <- Back 10 … 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23

Catalog Navigation
  Catalog Home
  Academic Calendar
  About Clark
  Accreditation
  Tuition and Financial Aid
  Admissions Requirements
  Departments and Offices
  Programs of Study
  Courses
  Undergraduate Academics and Special Programs
  Graduate Academics and Information
  Academic Policies
  Student Resources
  Facilities
  President, Leadership, and The Board of Trustees