If you’re interested in studying psychology in California, Fresno State is a great place to start. The university offers a range of classes in the field, covering everything from behavioral neuroscience to psychological disorders to counseling techniques. In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at Fresno State’s psychology classes, examining what you can expect to learn, the faculty who will be teaching you, and how to excel in your studies.
Overview of Fresno State’s Psychology Department
Fresno State’s Psychology Department is one of the largest and most diverse in the California State University system, offering a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, a Master of Arts in psychology, and a Master of Science in clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling. The department consists of 17 full-time faculty members with expertise in a wide range of areas, from cognitive psychology to social psychology to cross-cultural psychology.
In addition to traditional classroom instruction, the department also offers research opportunities, internships, and special events for students to enhance their hands-on experience and career opportunities within the field of psychology.
Psychology Classes at Fresno State
Fresno State offers a wide range of psychology classes, covering both foundational concepts in the field as well as advanced topics and specialized areas of study. Here are just a few of the classes you might expect to take as a psychology major at Fresno State:
PSYCH 1: Introduction to Psychology
PSYCH 1 is an introductory course that covers the basic concepts and principles of psychology, including the biological basis of behavior, learning, memory, perception, and social behavior. This course is designed to provide a foundation of knowledge for students who are just beginning their studies in psychology.
PSYCH 18: Abnormal Psychology
PSYCH 18 focuses on the psychological disorders and abnormal behavior, including the causes, symptoms, and treatments of conditions such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. Students in this class will learn about the importance of diagnosis and treatment in the field of psychology.
PSYCH 150: Social Psychology
PSYCH 150 is an advanced course that explores the social and cultural influences on human behavior, including group dynamics, conformity, attitude formation, and prejudice. Students in this class will learn about different methods for studying social behavior, as well as theories and research on topics such as group dynamics and identity.
PSYCH 170: Brain, Behavior, and Cognition
PSYCH 170 is a course that examines the relationship between the brain and behavior, with a specific focus on the biological basis of memory, perception, and consciousness. Students in this class will learn about how the brain processes information and how this affects behavior, as well as the latest research in the field of cognitive psychology.
PSYCH 176: Cross-Cultural Psychology
PSYCH 176 is a specialized course that examines how culture and ethnicity affect human behavior, with a focus on topics such as communication, identity, and conflict resolution. Students in this class will gain an understanding of cultural differences and how they affect human behavior, as well as learn to develop culturally-sensitive approaches to psychology.
Faculty at Fresno State’s Psychology Department
The faculty at Fresno State’s Psychology Department are all highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the classroom. Here are just a few of the professors who you might encounter during your studies:
Dr. John Sommers-Flanagan
Dr. Sommers-Flanagan is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of counseling at Fresno State. He has written numerous books and articles on counseling and psychotherapy, and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the field of psychology.
Dr. Rui Verde
Dr. Verde is an associate professor of social psychology at Fresno State, with a particular interest in the social construction of gender and the impact of gender stereotypes on behavior and attitudes. He has published extensively in the field of social psychology and is a highly respected expert in his field.
Dr. Robert Levine
Dr. Levine is a professor of social psychology at Fresno State, with a focus on cross-cultural psychology and the study of time perception across different cultures. He is the author of several books on the topic, including "A Geography of Time" and "The Pace of Life."
Tips for Excelling in Your Fresno State Psychology Classes
If you’re planning on studying psychology at Fresno State, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to help you excel in your coursework:
- Attend class regularly and participate in discussions and group activities.
- Take advantage of research opportunities and internships offered by the Psychology Department.
- Develop good study habits, including reviewing class notes regularly and staying on top of reading assignments.
- Seek out help from professors or tutoring services if you are struggling with coursework.
- Connect with other psychology students and form study groups or attend psychology club events to broaden your knowledge base and support system.
Conclusion
Fresno State offers a great range of psychology classes for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the field. Whether you’re passionate about social psychology, cognitive neuroscience, or counseling techniques, there is something for you at Fresno State’s Psychology Department. With highly trained faculty members, hands-on research opportunities, and a supportive community of fellow students, Fresno State is a great place to develop your skills and knowledge in psychology.
