Prospective Students: Course Descriptions

First Semester

AHRD 670 American Higher Education 3 credits

The objective and organization of prevalent types of institutions are studied. Current problems and issues in American higher education are explored.
http://coe.jmu.edu/ahrd670/ahrd670.shtml

PSYC 645 Student Personnel Services 3 credits

An overview of content areas of personnel services (i.e. residence life, student activities, admissions, etc.) offered in colleges and universities. Legal, ethical, and professional identity issues are also examined.

PSYC 646 The American College Student 3 credits

An examination of developmental theory and review of the literature and research related to the development and/or sub-group membership of the American college student.

Second Semester

PSYC 650 Organization and Administration of Student Services 3 credits

A study of organizational and management theory/practice in higher education. Upon completion of the course, students will have an understanding of the college/university as an organization and the role student service programs play in the mission of the institution. Prerequisite: PSYC 645

PSYC 660 Counseling Theories 3 credits

A study of the philosophy and principles of various schools of counseling, and the techniques employed in the counseling process by practitioners in each of these schools.

PSYC 661 Counseling Techniques 3 credits

An opportunity to learn fundamental counseling skills that form the foundations of successful counseling practice. Students develop these skills through experimental learning activities, directed reading assignments, discussions and lectures, practice in small groups, and participation in critiques of videotaped microcounseling sessions. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor

Third Semester

PSYC 600 Statistical Methods in Psychology 3 credits

An introduction to measurement and statistical tools used in conducting research. Specific topics include: reliability and validity; research methods and statistical analysis; quantitative and qualitative methods; needs assessment and program evaluation; use of technology; and legal and ethical issues of research.

PSYC 651 Supervision and Consultation Processes in Student Personnel 3 credits

This course will focus on the processes of supervision and consultation as they apply to student personnel management. Opportunities will be provided to make practical application of knowledge of management and organizational theories to personnel issues. Prerequisite: PSYC 650

PSYC 665 Group Counseling 3 credits

A study of the theories, techniques, dynamics, process and practice of group counseling. Students become members of a laboratory group and also conduct research into issues of group counseling. Each student pairs with a partner, creates an intervention plan, and facilitates the group process. Prerequisites: PSYC 660 and 661

Fourth Semester

PSYC 649 3 credits
Multiculturalism, Diversity and Difference: Theory, Research and Practice in Student Affairs

An environment for students to cognitively and experientially explore issues of multiculturalism, diversity and differences as it relates to work in student affairs, student services and higher education through assignments, exercises, discussions, readings and reflection.

PSYC 669 Career Development 3 credits

A survey of the courses of occupational and educational information and their use in counseling individuals and groups, covering philosophy and principles underlying integration of occupational and educational guidance, the study of community job resources, and plant and industrial visits. (Possible elective with approval of CSPA advisor)

PSYC 695 Practicum in Student Personnel Administration 3 credits

Provides a variety of supervised field, laboratory or school experiences. Students will be graded on a satisfactory or unsatisfactory basis. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor