Psychology majors have considerable freedom to focus on different areas within psychology. As can be seen by the interests of our faculty, students can take courses and seek laboratory experiences in one or more of the following areas: Clinical, Cognitive, Developmental, Neuroscience, & Social. However, there are some common content areas in which all psychology majors are expected to become proficient by the time they graduate, regardless of their particular interests and focus. First, because the field of psychology is research-based, it is imperative that all majors understand the methods by which knowledge is acquired in psychology. Thus, after completing the required research methods course (PSY 3213C), students will be knowledgeable in the five areas that are listed below under Research Methods in Psychology. Second, after completing one of the basic neuroscience courses in our department (students are required to complete at least one), students will be knowledgeable about the two neuroscience areas listed below under Neuroscience.
Research Methods in Psychology
1. Scientific Method
This refers to knowledge of the scientific method as it is applied in psychological research. This includes knowing how to formulate testable research hypotheses, how to evaluate plausible alternative hypotheses for one's findings, the importance of replication, identifying the differences between science and pseudo-science, and the differences between experimental and correlational studies.
2. Statistical Applications
This refers to knowledge of how statistical tests are commonly used in psychological research. This includes choosing the appropriate statistical test for a particular research design, and interpreting the results of statistical tests, such as a correlation, t-test, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).
3. Measurement Principles
This refers to knowledge of measurement principles, including the different types of scales (ratio, interval, etc.) that can be used in research, and the concepts of reliability and validity.
4. Consumers of Research
This refers to knowledge of what is involved in being a good consumer of research. This includes knowing how to locate scientific research on a psychological topic of interest and knowing what is included in the important elements (Introduction, Methods, etc.) of scientific articles.
5. Research Ethics
This refers to knowledge of what constitutes ethical treatment of human and animal research subjects, as well as procedures for insuring that researchers comply with these principles.
Neuroscience
1. Synaptic Transmission
This refers to knowledge of the structure and function of neurons and the principles of chemical synaptic transmission (e.g., how neurons send and receive messages).
2. Functional Anatomy of Central Nervous System
This refers to knowledge of the functions of different parts of the brain and spinal cord, and the major divisions of the Nervous System.