PSYC 0102. Navigating Psychology: The Major and Careers

Unit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of PSYC 100 with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 18 lecture
Provides an overview of the discipline of psychology, including expectations for the psychology major, and career options in various areas, such as academic psychology, applied behavior analysis, counseling and mental health, education, industrial-organizational psychology and related fields. Students design plans of study and clarify their career goals through activities such as interviewing a professional in the field of psychology, resume writing, and interviewing. (CSU)

PSYC 0102 - Navigating Psychology: The Major and Careers

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/psyc-0102/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Prerequisite: Completion of PSYC 100 with grade of "C" or better Hours: 18 lecture Description: Provides an overview of the discipline of psychology, including expectations for the psychology major, and career options in various areas, such as academic psychology, applied behavior analysis, counseling and mental health, education, industrial-organizational psychology and related fields. Students design plans of study and clarify their career goals through activities such as interviewing a professional in the field of psychology, resume writing, and interviewing. (CSU) Units 1 Lecture-Discussion 18 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 18 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Compare and contrast preferred career paths based on accurate self-assessment of abilities, achievement, motivation, and work habits. Evaluate the types of academic experience and application in psychology and the liberal arts that will facilitate entry into the work force, post-baccalaureate education, or both. Apply knowledge of psychology (e.g., decision strategies, life span processes, psychological assessment, types of psychological careers) to formulating career choices. Course Content Outline I. Introduction to Careers in Psychology A. Academics 1. Teaching 2. Research B. Clinical and counseling 1. Masters in Social Work 2. Masters in Family Therapy 3. Masters in Industrial/Organizational II. Career Paths and Job Searches A. Career assessment tests B. My Academic Plan (MAP) C. Curriculum Vitae/Resume development D.Interviewing E. Service learning 1. Volunteering 2. Research experience 3. Placement in community agencies 4. Internships F. Networking 1. Building references 2. Personal statements 3. Preparing for four-year university 4. Preparing for graduate school Course Objectives Course Objectives 1. Outline, describe, and explain different career pathways within psychology. 2. Explore and identify personal career goals. 3. Compare academic programs related to personal career goals. 4. Develop a student educational plan for transfer (MAP). 5. Develop a curriculum vita (resume) and cover letter. 6. Examine different interview styles and formats for a variety of entry-level positions. 7. Explore and identify psychology-related resources for networking purposes. Methods of Evaluation Classroom Discussions Essay Examinations Objective Examinations Projects Reading Assignments 1. Go to http://www.careersinpsychology.org and read the article "The 50+ Best Jobs for Psychologists." Be prepared for an in-class discussion on different career options. 2. Read the chapter in Kuther's "Careers in Psychology: Opportunities in a Changing World." On page 11, take the "Which Holland Personality Type Do You Match?" quiz, and analyze your results. Bring these results with you to class for a small group discussion. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Profile of Goals: The purpose of this assignment is to encourage you to think of the reasons for your interest in psychology. Submit a 2-3 page paper, double-spaced and typed, on what attracted you to the discipline of psychology, what specifically you plan to study, how you plan to prepare yourself in your undergraduate years, and what career plans you are considering for the future. 2. Educational Plan: The purpose of this assignment is to create a MAP (My academic plan) for earning a degree in psychology and also to plan for future work/internship/research experience that will help you reach your academic and career goals. Following the guidelines presented in class, and incorporating feedback during your individual meeting with the instructor, create a MAP for earning your AA-T degree at Sierra. Then research potential transfer schools that offer psychology programs that fit your interests and future career goals. Summarize three potential undergraduate programs that you are considering for transfer. What features of these programs make them a good fit for transfer? what specific faculty share your academic interests? Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) Create a curriculum vitae, using one of several formatting models, that describes your educational and occupational achievements to date. Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.