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Psychology

What is 'Psychology? (PSYC)'

Psychology is an academic and applied discipline involving the systematic, and often scientific, study of human/animal mental functions and behavior. Occasionally, in addition or opposition to employing the scientific method, it also relies on symbolic interpretation and critical analysis, although it often does so less prominently than other social sciences such as sociology. Psychologists study such phenomena as perception, cognition, attention, emotion, motivation, personality, behavior and interpersonal relationships. Some, especially depth psychologists, also study the unconscious mind.

Psychological knowledge is applied to various spheres of human activity, including issues related to everyday life - such as family, education and employment - and to the treatment of mental health problems. Psychologists attempt to understand the role of mental functions in individual and social behavior, while also exploring the underlying physiological and neurological processes. Psychology includes many sub-fields of study and applications concerned with such areas as human development, sports, health, industry, media and law. Psychology incorporates research from the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. A professional theorist or practitioner of psychology is called a psychologist.

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Is it for you?

PSYC 1010, PSYC 1120, and the other psychology courses the College offers will fulfill the social science/ humanities requirements for most students pursuing a degree from Metropolitan Community College.  More important, students can use what they learn about psychology to improve their personal and professional life by developing a broad understanding of human behavior, acquiring interpersonal and communication skills, and heightening their critical thinking skills. Additionally, students will gain an appreciation for the role of psychology in political, social, and multicultural contexts in contemporary society.

Jobs and Salary Expectations

While the Master’s and Ph.D. are primarily the only degrees that allow entry to most professional positions within the field, especially those labeled Psychologist, students who major in psychology at the undergraduate level will often find career opportunities in a variety of career fields. In fact, a psychology major can appeal to different employers for a variety of reasons, because of their understanding of scientific reasoning and the knowledge they have gained through their study of human behavior. Some of the positions and fields that psychology majors may find interesting and challenging include:

  • Case Manager
  • Human Resources
  • Human Services
  • Behavior Analyst
  • Public Relations
  • Management
  • Market Research
  • Group Home Counselor
  • Direct Care Provider
  • Substance Abuse Counselor
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Youth Worker
  • Rehabilitation Aid
  • Resident Treatment Worker
  • Living Unit Supervisor
  • Sales
  • Probation or Parole Officer

Program Faculty

  • Jennifer Cohen
  • Samantha Delagarza, PhD.
  • Meghana Gulawani
  • Carol Moore, PhD.
  • Ryan Newton, PhD.
  • Jill Ramet
  • Edie Sample (Program Coordinator)
  • Jennifer Vaughn

Course Descriptions

  •  PSYC 1000 Psychology for Everyday Living
  • PSYC 1010 Introduction to Psychology
  • PSYC 1110 Parenting and Family Problem Solving
  • PSYC 1120 Human Growth and Development
  • PSYC 1130 Cognitive Development
  • PSYC 2140 Behavior Modification and Principles of Learning
  • PSYC 2150 Survey of Human Sexuality
  • PSYC 2350 Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology
  • PSYC 2450 Social Psychology
  • PSYC 2550 Popular Readings in Social Science
  • PSYC 2650 Research Methods

Credit Classes and Registration