Academic Instruction

Department Courses

African American Psychology

Historical overview of the development of Black psychology and the African American frame of reference. Topics include personality development, psychological assessment, issues in education, Black mental health, and the role of the African American psychologist in the community.

Asian American Women

This course is designed to examine current research and literature on the cultural, societal, and historical influences that shape psychological issues among Asian Americans. Included in this examination will be an analysis of contextual issues underlying Asian American psychological experiences, such as worldviews, values, and beliefs; ethnic identity development; racism and discrimination; and the impact of the immigration experience. Issues relevant to self-concept, interpersonal relationships, gender roles, and sexuality will also be examined. Furthermore, we will address the interface between Asian Americans and major societal institutions, such as the educational system, the workplace, and mental health services.

Residence Hall Courses

Intersections of Diversity

This course is the second in a series designed to assist first year students with their transition from high school to college. The primary objectives are to: 1) enhance interpersonal skills, 2) increase multicultural awareness and understanding, 3) develop college survival skills (i.e., study skills, learning styles, stress and time management), and 4) develop greater self-awareness and understanding of the individual's relationship to society.

Interpersonal Relationships

This course will give you the opportunity to think about and learn about relationships. These relationships include family, friends, romantic partners, and others. An important focus of the course will be exploring how gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and culture influence our experience of relationships. The course is structured to be interactive in order to maximize opportunities to learn from other students. The course will include communication skills training in order to enhance healthy relationships. In addition, special attention will be paid to those factors that impede or impact the development of intimacy and relationships (i.e. family dynamics, abuses of power, and "isms"). Class format will include lectures, panel discussion, audio-visual presentations, small group discussions, and guest speakers. You will be participating in a small group presentation with other members of the class.

Intimate Relationships

The intimate relationships class focuses on how to get a love and how to keep a love. The class also focuses on being in love and learning to maintain your independence and self-esteem. In addition, the class will help you look at who you are by attaining a better understanding of you and your family dynamics.