Psychology and Human Services

Rhonda Korol, Professor
Margaret Sherrer, Associate Professor
Patricia Shine, Associate Professor
Meri Stiles, Associate Professor
Lori Werdenschlag, Professor

A.S. Human Services
B.S.Applied Psychology and Human Services
Minor: Psychology, Human Services

Program Mission Statement

In the Psychology and Human Services Department, we provide students with the coursework and practical field experience that prepares graduates for entry-level human service and psychology positions and/or continued study at the graduate level.

Program Goals

Our program provides students with a solid foundation in psychological and developmental theory along with an emphasis on experiential learning. Students will complete field work, internship, and a capstone paper. This is a flexible program which prepares graduates for entry-level human services positions and for success in a variety of graduate programs (e.g., social work, psychology, counseling, etc.).

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the major in Applied Psychology and Human Services will be able to:

A. Demonstrate an understanding of and be able to articulate the research principles, concepts, and theories of psychology and human services.
B. Research, synthesize, and apply theory and practice in psychology and human services.
C. Acquire skills and behavior necessary for obtaining employment and succeeding in the professional world.
D. Demonstrate knowledge of and adhere to the ethical and legal standards of the fields of psychology and human services.

Unique Program Features

The program in Applied Psychology and Human Services emphasizes the following:

Strong foundation in theory. Students become well versed in the variety of psychological theories that help to explain human behavior in the social environment.

· Development of analytic skills. Students analyze and interpret what they learn and apply these skills to all areas of practice.

· Development of problem-solving skills. Students “practice” what they’ve learned and apply this knowledge to “real life” problems that arise in the field.

· Strong foundation in ethics. Students learn about the ethical and legal constructs that drive psychology and human services.

· Professional competence. Students learn what it means to be a “professional.”

· Personal growth and self-care. Students learn about themselves, their strengths and their areas for continued growth. They also learn about the critical need to engage in self-care in professions as personally challenging as psychology and human services.

· Systems perspective. Students learn how the larger society impacts their work. Particular attention is paid to issues of poverty, diversity and oppression, and how to advocate for social justice in these areas. Students are encouraged to think of themselves as potential leaders in the fields of psychology and human services.

Program Assessment

The Psychology and Human Services Department assesses its programs in a variety of ways. Surveys are periodically sent to recent graduates, and the responses to the surveys guide program development and curricular change. Graduate school enrollment and job placement of alumni are also used as part of program assessment. Faculty members participate annually at national conferences for human services, psychology, and social work. Participation at such conferences allows faculty to stay informed about national standards and changes in respective fields. Our faculty are also involved in research, private practice, and community service, all of which provide insights into the relation between community needs and our program.

Special Requirements for Acceptance to the Major

Approval for field work placement is contingent upon the student’s academic progress and potential for success in the fields of human services and psychology. Any student who has engaged in unprofessional or unethical practices may not be considered for field work placement, acceptance to the major, or continuation in the program. Prior to the completion of 60 credits students must successfully complete PSY 1040, PSY 2811, PSY 2812 and apply for acceptance to the major. Requirements for acceptance to the psychology major include a 2.3 GPA in Psychology/Human Services courses and a 2.0 GPA overall, satisfactory academic progress in the General Education Program, recommendation of two psychology and human services department faculty members as well as the development of interpersonal skills necessary for success in the profession.

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