To officially begin the major, complete the Lower Division Core and then enroll in PSY 300: Expermntl/Psy & Human/Assesmnt where you will work with your professor to create an Individual Learning Plan (ILP). That ILP maps out how you will achieve each of the Major Learning Outcomes designed below by successfully completing the listed courses or alternative assessment options. You conclude the major by completing your Capstone, a publicly presented project that displays your cumulative learning in the major. Learn more at CSUMB.EDU/capstone.
The Psychology major adheres to the five recommended goals for "knowledge, skills and values consistent with the science and application of psychology" by the American Psychological Association Board of Educational Affairs.
MLO 1 Theory and Content of PsychologyDemonstrate familiarity with major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings and historical trends. Outcomes include describing and applying psychology's concepts, language and theories, explaining its major perspectives and demonstrating understanding of its breadth and depth. |
MLO 2 Research Methods in PsychologyUnderstand and apply basic research methods, including research design, data analysis and interpretation. Outcomes include differentiating research methods, evaluating aptness of research conclusions, designing and conducting basic studies and generalizing research conclusions appropriately. |
MLO 3 Critical Thinking Skills in PsychologyRespect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry and the scientific approach. Outcomes include using and engaging in critical thinking, using reasoning in arguments and persuasion and approaching problems with sophistication. |
MLO 4 Application of PsychologyBy applying psychological training, the interdisciplinarity of the program becomes evident. Students understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social and organizational issues. Outcomes include identifying psychology's major applications, articulating how it can be used toward social understanding and public policy and recognizing the ethical complexities of applying psychology. |
MLO 5 Values in PsychologyThe "Values" outcome also demonstrates the interdisciplinarity of the major, especially through its emphasis on ethics and respect for science. Students weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically and reflect other values underpinning psychology. Outcomes include understanding the need for ethical behavior, tolerance of ambiguity, demonstration of skepticism and intellectual curiosity, attunement to scientific evidence, civic responsibility and respect for human diversity. |