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PSYC
PSYCHOLOGY
Note: See beginning of Section H for abbreviations, course numbers and coding. Students should consult the Timetable for the
latest listing of courses to be offered in each term.
PSYC 1013
Introduction to Psychology - I
3 ch (3C)
A general survey of perspectives and methods in selected areas of psychology including learning, memory, cognitive
and biological psychology. Students will be asked to participate in various learning and research activities. Some
course credit may be earned by participation in these activities.
PSYC 1023
Introduction to Psychology - II
3 ch (3C)
A general survey of perspectives and methods in selected areas of psychology including personality, developmental,
clinical and social psychology. Students will be asked to participate in various learning and research activities. Some
course credit may be earned by participation in these activities.
PSYC 2113
Introduction to Research and Statistical Methods in Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
An introduction to research methodology and statistical analysis for psychologists. Topics include correlational,
observational and experimental research designs, relevant statistical theory and hypothesis testing. Required for
students planning to Minor, Major or Honour in Psychology. Students planning to Major or Honour in Psychology must
also register in PSYC 2123 and take this course in the second year of their program. Prerequisite: Introductory
Psychology (6 ch).
PSYC 2123
Quantitative Research Methods
3 ch (3C 1T) (LE) [W]
This course provides an introduction to experimental psychology as an empirical science. Students will learn about the
steps involved in research, such as designing and conducting experiments. Software relevant to psychology research
will be introduced. Additionally, students will learn how to analyze and formally report on their research projects.
Students will be involved in a research project as participants and as researchers. This course is required for Majors
and Honours students in Psychology. Prerequisites: Introductory Psychology (6 ch) and PSYC 2113.
PSYC 2203
Foundations of Developmental Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
Covers physical, cognitive, language, and social/emotional development from a variety of theoretical perspectives. The
interrelatedness of these domains also will be discussed. Several themes which underlie the study of development
(e.g., nature/nurture; continuity/discontinuity) will be reviewed and students will explore how these themes permeate
developmental research. Prerequisite: Introductory Psychology (6 ch).
PSYC 2313
Foundations of Clinical Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
An introduction to the main theories, research approaches, and intervention perspectives of clinical psychology. Topics
dealt with include professional issues in clinical psychology, concepts and history of abnormality, assessment and
diagnosis of psychological disorders, research perspectives in clinical psychology, and modes of psychotherapy. The
course is intended to expose the student to the basic concepts, theories and issues in psychopathology and
psychotherapy for more advanced courses in the clinical domain. Prerequisites: Introductory Psychology (6 ch).
PSYC 2403
Foundations of Social Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
Examines individual personality and behaviour in relation to other individuals, society and culture. Topics include social
perception, attitudes and values, conformity and obedience, prejudice and discrimination, aggression and violence,
etc. Prerequisite: Introductory to Psychology (6ch).
PSYC 2603
Foundations of Memory and Cognition
3 ch (3C)
An introduction to the fundamental principles of human memory, cognition and information processing in the
laboratory and everyday world. Topics include basic cognitive processes, the representation and organization of
knowledge, reasoning, problem solving, etc. Prerequisite: Introductory Psychology (6 ch).
PSYC 2703
Foundations of Biological Psychology
3 ch (3C)
An introduction to basic neurophysiology, neurochemistry and neuroanatomy for humans and other animals. The
course will cover the methods used to discover the fundamental processes underlying neural function and provide
basic knowledge for an understanding of how the nervous system is able to produce and control behaviour.
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Prerequisite: Introductory Psychology (6 ch) or permission of instructor.
PSYC 3033
Health Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
This course introduces students to the biopsychosocial approach to health and disease including prevention,
development, course, and adaptation to illness. Students will develop an understanding of the mind/body connection,
the influence of social and physical environments on our health, cognitive processing of health information, health
belief models, and the link between personality traits and health. Psychological approaches to the promotion of health
and behavior change will be examined. A personal health promotion project will be required. Prerequisite: Introductory
Psychology (6 ch). Please note that no more than three of PSYC 3033, PSYC 3043 , PSYC 3053 and PSYC 3063 may be
counted toward a Major or Honours In Psychology.
PSYC 3043
Human Sexuality
3 ch (3C)
Provides a broad introduction to the psychology of human sexuality, including examination of such specific topics as
sexual anatomy, sexual behaviour throughout the lifespan, sexual response, sexual dysfunction and therapy, sexual
variation, and pregnancy and child birth. Emphasis on placing empirical findings within physiological, personal,
interpersonal and social frameworks. Prerequisite: Introductory Psychology (6 ch).Please note that no more than three
of PSYC 3033 , PSYC 3043, PSYC 3053 and PSYC 3063 may be counted toward a Major or Honours In Psychology.
PSYC 3053
Personality
3 ch (3C) [W]
An introduction to classic and contemporary theoretical and scientific approaches to the study and assessment of
personality, with a focus on developing an integrated understanding of human personality within its biological, social,
historical and cultural contexts. Prerequisite: Introductory Psychology (6 ch). Please note that no more than three of
PSYC 3033 , PSYC 3043 , PSYC 3053 and PSYC 3063 may be counted toward a Major or Honours In Psychology.
PSYC 3063
Psychology and the Internet
3 ch (3 C)
In this course we will examine the unique psychological features of cyberspace and how human behaviour is shaped in
this new social realm. Topics related to human interaction, children and the Internet, sexuality on the Internet,
computer-mediated communication, Internet addiction, and global consciousness, etc. will be covered. Prerequisite:
Introductory Psychology (6 ch). Please note that no more than three of PSYC 3033 , PSYC 3043 , PSYC 3053 and PSYC
3063 may be counted toward a Major or Honours In Psychology.
PSYC 3113
Introduction to Statistical Inference in Experimental Psychology
3 ch (3C 1L) (LE)
Introduces experimental design and statistical inference in psychological research. Design decision-making and
computational procedures up to analysis of variance are presented. Labs involve collection and analysis of
psychological data. PSYC 3113 is required of Honours students in Psychology. Prerequisite: PSYC 2113 and PSYC 2123
or PSYC 2103 and PSYC 2903.
PSYC 3123
Introduction to Measurement Theory
3 ch (2C 2L) (LE)
Introduces traditional problems in the measurement of psychological concepts. Labs will involve the development and
evaluation of student designed tests and measures. Prerequisite: PSYC 2113 and PSYC 2123.
PSYC 3151
Basic Research Seminar I
3 ch (3S) (LE) [W]
Involves active participation in several of the activities related to an empirical research project including planning and
development of research, conducting a study, and collection and analysis of data. Students will be required to prepare
a formal research paper. The actual program will be determined by the student and a faculty supervisor. Normally
restricted to students in their third year whose academic performance would allow them to enter the Honours program
during their fourth year. Prerequisite: PSYC 2113 and PSYC 2123 and two Psychology foundation courses, permission
of a faculty supervisor and Basic Research Coordinator, and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.3 in
Psychology courses.
PSYC 3152
Basic Research Seminar II
3 ch (3S) (LE) [W]
Involves active participation in several of the activities related to an empirical research project including planning and
development of research, conducting a study, and collection and analysis of data. Students will be required to prepare
a formal research paper. The actual program will be determined by the student and a faculty supervisor. Normally
restricted to students in their third year whose academic performance would allow them to enter the Honours program
during their fourth year. Prerequisite: PSYC 2113 and PSYC 2123 and two Psychology foundation courses, permission
of a faculty supervisor and Basic Research Coordinator, and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.3 in
Psychology courses.
PSYC 3213
Language Development
3 ch (3C 1T)
Examines current views on language development and discusses the interaction between cognitive, social, and
linguistic development. Possible topics include critical period for language, preverbal communication, gestural
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communication, and vocabulary and grammar development. Prerequisite: PSYC 2203.
PSYC 3215
Development of Individuals with Disabilities
3 ch (3C)[W]
A discussion of issues that may arise for individuals with various disabilities at different points in the lifespan. Topics
may include prenatal testing, academic/vocational placement, independent living, and parenting. The causes,
characteristics, and challenges of specific cognitive, language, sensory, and physical disabilities may be reviewed.
Prerequisites: PSYC 2203. Note: Credit may not be obtained for both PSYC 3215 and PSYC 4215.
PSYC 3233
Social Development
3 ch (3C) [W]
A review of theories and research examining how various social contexts contribute to individual development. The
role of family, peers, and individuals’ involvement in school, paid or unpaid work , and community settings will be
explored. Content may focus on social development in children and adolescents, adults, the elderly, or across the
lifespan, depending on the expertise of the instructor. Prerequisite: PSYC 2203.
PSYC 3243
Cognitive Development
3 ch (3C)
Examines cognitive development from a variety of theoretical perspectives. Topics covered include mental
representation, attention, memory, and perception. Content may focus on cognitive development in children, adults,
the elderly, or across the lifespan, depending on instructor availability. Prerequisite: PSYC 2203.
PSYC 3253
Family Processes
3 ch (3C) [W]
Examines the theoretical and empirical research on family relationships, the factors that influence functioning, and
how families change over time. Topics include intimacy relationships, transgenerational processes, family rituals and
rules, and interpersonal communication and boundaries. Relevant case examples are discussed to illustrate the
complexity of family relationships and the stressors that families may face. Prerequisite: PSYC 2203.
PSYC 3263
Psychology of Women
3 ch (3C) [W]
A lifespan approach to the lives of girls and women, examined in the context of traditional and alternative roles, life
events, and status in society. Provides an overview of theories and research on female development, behaviour, and
personality. Prerequisite: PSYC 2203 or permission of instructor.
PSYC 3273
Adolescent Development
3 ch (3C) [W]
A review of theories and research examining physical and psychological development during adolescence. Specific
topics include puberty, identity, sexuality, and health. Emphasis is placed on normative behaviour and how
adolescents’ characteristics interact with their contexts (e.g., family, school, peers) to shape development.
Prerequisite: PSYC 2203.
PSYC 3313
Psychological Testing
3 ch (2C 1T) [W]
The creation of tests that measure psychological phenomena is a major endeavour within the discipline of psychology.
The administration, scoring and interpretation of psychological tests is a significant aspect of the work of researchers
and practicing clinical psychologists. This course examines existing tests that measure phenomena such as cognition
and personality. The course introduces principles of psychological testing, relevant statistical concepts, and the
methods by which tests are developed. Prerequisite: PSYC 2113 and PSYC 2313.
PSYC 3323
Systems of Psychotherapy
3 ch (3C) [W]
Surveys prevailing theories and methods of psychotherapy, such as psychoanalysis, client-centred therapy, Gestalt
therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, family systems approaches, etc. Emphasis is on the techniques used in
psychotherapy, and various techniques will be contrasted. Each theory and method is evaluated in terms of research
examining therapeutic process and outcome. Prerequisite: PSYC 2313.
PSYC 3343
The Psychology of Crime
3 ch (2C, 1L) [W]
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of the area of the psychology of crime with a special focus on
Clinical Criminology, also referred to as Forensic Psychology. Issues pertaining to the following topics will be explored:
1) the nature and definition of crime, 2) the development of the offender (theoretical perspectives), 3) the intersection
of crime and mental health, and 4) the victim. Prerequisite: Introductory Psychology (6 ch) or permission of
instructor.
PSYC 3353
Adult Abnormal Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
This is an advanced course which adopts a scientist-practitioner perspective on the understanding, assessment, and
treatment of adult psychological disorders. Topics can include psychological theories and treatment of depression,
anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, substance use disorders, stress and physical health, dissociative
disorders and personality disorders. The course will take an integrative, problem-oriented approach by simultaneously
examining the theory, research and treatment literature that is pertinent to each disorder. Prerequisite: PSYC 2313.
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PSYC 3373
Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
3 ch (3C) [W]
Survey of major categories of behavioural and emotional problems of childhood and adolescence. Topics may include
depression, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, and eating disorders. Prerequisite:
PSYC 2203 and 2313.
PSYC 3383
Women and Mental Health
3 ch (3C)
Explores and critically evaluates theory and research on mental health problems in girls and women from a feminist
perspective. Topics addressed include premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and the role of hormones in girls’ and women’s
mental health problems; depression; eating disorders; dissociative disorders and other sequelae of abuse; and
feminist approaches to therapy. Prerequisite: PSYC 2313 or permission of instructor.
PSYC 3403
Applied Social Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
This course explores the application of social psychology to understand everyday life experience and to solve current
social problems. Topics may include improving interpersonal relationships, promoting team cohesion, evaluating media
influence, enhancing job satisfaction, promoting community health, and addressing the issues of social justice and
equality. Prerequisite: PSYC 2403.
PSYC 3415
Community Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
This course is designed to introduce students to the science and practice of community psychology, which is the study
of psychological solutions to community based problems. Community psychology extends psychology’s role beyond a
focus on the individual towards a greater understanding of groups, organizations, and communities. Topics may
include prevention, under-served populations, cultural diversity, political action, effects of stress on mental health,
community organization, empowerment, and mutual help. There will be a focus on how research and science intersect
with the practical aspects of working successfully with people in their own communities. Prerequisite: PSYC 2403.
PSYC 3423
Group Processes
3 ch (1C 2L) [W]
An exploration of the social psychology of group dynamics. Topics may include group formation and functioning,
prejudice, discrimination, leadership, social identity, conformity, group problem solving and decision-making, and
inter-/intra-group conflict and cooperation. Emphasizes the theoretical and experiential understanding of relevant
concepts. Prerequisite: PSYC 2403.
PSYC 3433
Social Cognition
3 ch (3C) [W]
A review of research and theories examining how people make sense of their social world: How they perceive,
represent, interpret, and remember information about themselves and about other individuals and groups. Topics may
include representation, recall, and use of social knowledge, controllability of thought processes, effects of feelings and
desires, and stereotype activation and use. Experimental and quasi-experimental methodologies employed in social
psychology will also be discussed. Prerequisite: PSYC 2403.
PSYC 3443
Culture and Psychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
A survey course of theory, methods and research in culture and psychology. Examines the role of culture across a
range of psychological areas, including perceptual and cognitive processes, human development, language, gender,
and social behaviour. Topics may include cultural variations and similarities in social psychological functioning, how
some cultural patterns get established and maintained, individuals' application of cultural knowledge in concrete
situations, and how individuals negotiate cultural identities in multicultural contexts. Prerequisite: PSYC 2403 .
PSYC 3613
Laboratory in Learning, Memory and Cognition (O)
3 ch (3L)
Empirical investigation of current issues in Learning and Memory. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or Honouring
in Psychology. Prerequisite: PSYC 2603 and permission of instructor. Restriction: Credit may not be obtained from
both PSYC 3613 and PSYC 4613.
PSYC 3615
Behaviour Modification
3 ch (3C) [W]
Empirically based, emphasizing behavioural analysis and control of anxiety, maladaptive interpersonal relations,
addictions, health-related problems, etc. A self-control project is required. Prerequisite: PSYC 2313 or PSYC 2603.
PSYC 3623
Cognition
3 ch (3C)
Covers the basic cognitive processes of memory, problem solving and reasoning, concept formation, and decision
making. Prerequisite: PSYC 2603.
PSYC 3633
Motivation and Emotion
3 ch (3C) [W]
A critical examination of contemporary theory and research on motivation and emotion as explanatory concepts for
key aspects of personal and social human function. Topics covered include the motivational and emotional
determinants of approach and avoidance behavior, incentive decision-making, intrinsic and extrinsic aspects of
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control, stress and coping, emotional dysfunction, prosocial behaviours, emotion regulation, happiness and positive
well-being. Prerequisite: PSYS 2603.
PSYC 3643
Adult Development and Aging
3 ch (3C)
This course considers the study of adult development and aging. Possible topics include the changes in physical
development, learning, memory, cognition, personality, and social cognition that are associated with aging.
Prerequisite: PSYC 2603 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 3713
Physiological Psychology
3 ch (3C)
Examines the physiological bases of behaviour as determined by genetic, neurophysiological, neurochemical and
neuroanatomical experimentation. Prerequisite: PSYC 2703.
PSYC 3723
Physiological Psychology Laboratory
3 ch (3L)
Use of psychophysiological methods, instrumentation and techniques (e.g., event-related potential brain recordings,
behavioural observation) in the study of the physiological bases of behaviour in humans and other animals. Students
will conduct research experiments and learn the basics of human electrophysiological recording, data collection, and
analysis. Prerequisite: PSYC 3713.
PSYC 3733
Neuropsychopharmacology
3 ch (3L)
Basic principles of the study of drugs that influence neural systems and induce changes in behaviour. The course will
address psychotropic drug assessment, from molecular and biochemical characterization, to behavioural effects in
animal test paradigms and finally to clinical applications. Prerequisite: PSYC 2703.
PSYC 3743
Drugs and Behaviour
3 ch (3C)
Examines sedatives, hypnotics, stimulants, anaesthetics, analgesics, paralytics, psychotogenics and
psychotherapeutics. Includes history of use, presumed mechanisms of action, and effects on human and animal
behaviour. Emphasis on how drugs affect the quality of human experience through relief of pain, addiction, treatment
of mental illness, etc. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 2703 or permission of instructor. Students who have received credit for
PSYC 3023 can not received credit for PSYC 3743.
PSYC 3745
Principles of Perception
3 ch (3C) [W]
Provides a broad introduction to the field of perception and the necessary background for PSYC 3753 or PSYC 4743.
Emphasizes issues relevant to psychophysical measurement, visual processes, and hearing. Discussion is in the
context of the central traditions of perceptual research such as empiricism and Gestalt. Prerequisite: PSYC 2703.
PSYC 3753
Laboratory in Vision and Hearing
3 ch (3C)
Individual laboratory exercises in visual and auditory processes. To familiarize the student with the experimental
methodology of sensory psychology, and the introductory assessment of sensory deficits (visual defects, hearing loss,
etc.). Prerequisite: PSYC 3745.
PSYC 3773
Experimental Human Neuropsychology
3 ch (3C) [W]
Emphasis will be on studies that help us to understand the relationship between behaviourally observable phenomena
and corresponding brain function. The course will examine what has been revealed about human brain function
through the use of specialized types of psychological tests and measures, through biophysical imaging techniques that
give us a view of human brain function, and finally through damage to the human nervous system and research on its
effects. Prerequisite: PSYC 2703.
PSYC 3783
Experimental Neuropsychology Laboratory
3 ch (3L) [W]
Current issues in research in neuropsychology will be examined. Prerequisite: PSYC 3773.
PSYC 4003
Topical Seminar in Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
An advanced seminar on a topic not represented by one of the Teaching Areas in Psychology. Open to Upper Level
students Majoring or Honouring in Psychology. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Please note that students should
consult the Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4053
History of Psychology
3 ch (3C)
Critically examines the content, concepts, techniques and issues of the historical antecedents of modern psychology.
Primary as well as various secondary sources are consulted.
PSYC 4103
Special Topics in Quantitative Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
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An advanced course on a topic in Quantitative Psychology. Open to upper-lLevel students in the Majors or Honours
programs in Psychology. Prerequisites: PSYC 2113 and PSYC 2123 , and PSYC 3113 or permission of instructor. Please
note that students should consult the Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4123 Special Topics in Qualitative Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
An advanced course on a topic in Qualitative Psychology. Open to upper-level students in the Majors or Honours
programs in Psychology. Prerequisites: PSYC 2113 and permission of the instructor. Please note that students should
consult the Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4110
Honours Thesis Research Seminar
6 ch (3S 3S) (LE)
Organization and discussion of Honours Thesis research projects. Normally available only to students who have been
admitted to a Psychology Honours Program and who are in their final year. Required of Honours students in
Psychology during their fourth year. Prerequisite: PSYC 3151 or PSYC 3152 , permission of a faculty supervisor and
Honours Research Coordinator, and a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.6 in Psychology courses.
PSYC 4203
Topical Seminar in Developmental Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
Discussion of current issues in Developmental Psychology. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or Honouring in
Psychology. Prerequisite: PSYC 2203 and permission of instructor. Please note that students should consult the
Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4223
Sex and Gender: Differences and Similarities
3 ch (3C) [W]
Provides a critical appraisal of the theories and research methods in the area of sex and gender differences and
similarities. Specific topics include morality, stereotypes, feminist perspectives, role of the media, scientific method,
and epistemological tendencies. Examines the construction of knowledge, and the development of positions, with
regards to sex and gender. Prerequisite: 2203 or 3263 or permission of instructor.
PSYC 4303
Topical Seminar in Clinical Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
Discussion of current issues in Clinical Psychology. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or Honouring in Psychology.
Prerequisite: PSYC 2313 and permission of instructor.Please note that students should consult the Department for
current offerings.
PSYC 4403
Topical Seminar in Social Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
Discussion of current issues in Social Psychology. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or Honouring in Psychology.
Prerequisite: PSYC 2403 and permission of instructor. Please note that students should consult the department for
current offerings.
PSYC 4603
Topical Seminar in Learning, Memory and Cognition (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
Discussion of current issues in Learning, Memory and Cognition. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or Honouring
in Psychology. Prerequisite: PSYC 2603 and permission of instructor. Please note that students should consult the
Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4713
Topical Seminar in Physiological Psychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
An in-depth exploration of current issues in Physiological Psychology. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or
Honouring in Psychology. Prerequisite: one of PSYC 3713 , PSYC 3743 , PSYC 3773 or permission of instructor. Please
note that students should consult the Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4743
Topical Seminar in Sensation-Perception (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
Coverage of various issues in Sensation and Perception in a seminar format. Emphasis is on visual and auditory
processes, with some coverage of taste, smell, and touch. Laboratory work is included. Open to Upper Level students
Majoring or Honouring in Psychology. Prerequisite: PSYC 2703 and permission of instructor. Please note that students
should consult the Department for current offerings.
PSYC 4773
Topical Seminar in Neuropsychology (O)
3 ch (3S) [W]
Current issues in research in Neuropsychology will be examined. Open to Upper Level students Majoring or Honouring
in Psychology. Prerequisite: PSYC 2703 and permission of instructor. PLease note that students should consult the
Department for current offerings.