PSY

Additional Specific General Education Requirements

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will provide an introduction to positive psychology. Happiness, or subjective well-being, will be studied along with the strengths and virtues that allow individuals and communities to thrive. A strong experimental component in this class will facilitate students’ understanding of concepts related to well-being such as gratitude, forgiveness, and service to others. Students will be challenged to consider the Christian perspective on happiness and ways their personal faith impacts their subjective well-being.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course includes the study of growth and development from birth through adolescence. Methods of studying child development are examined, and theoretical approaches used in the field are explained. There is attention to genetic and prenatal development with most of the course focusing on physical, cognitive, social, and personality development during infancy, early childhood, middle childhood, and adolescence. Undergraduate Academic Catalog 2025-26 PSY 2063 Adulthood and Aging (Same as SOC 3113) This is a comprehensive course investigating the social dimensions of aging and its links to historical, demographic, and cross-cultural patterns. Current theories of aging are studied, as well as crucial issues impinging on the daily lives of older adults.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Alias

SOC 3113

Professionals in psychology-related fields are likely to encounter ethical dilemmas on a frequent, if not daily, basis. In this course, students will examine the role of ethics in psychological research, publication, education, and practice. Attention will be given to: the evolution of ethical principles from the Declaration of Helsinki through contemporary professional codes of ethics; the process of ethical decision-making; and the ethical safeguards (such as Institutional Review Boards) that support psychological professionals in “doing the right thing.” Prerequisite: PSY 1013.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Subject

PSY

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course is an introduction to the organization and structure of personality. Personality is defined and methods of assessing and studying it are considered. Major theories of personality are investigated, including the development and history of the major theories of personality in the fields of Philosophy and Psychology. The major theories are used to explore issues including love, hate, gender, culture, religion, stress, adjustment, and health. Students are challenged to apply theories to the personality of a specific historical figure. PSY 3043 Abnormal Psychology (Same as CRJ 3043) This course is an introduction to the study of psychopathology. The difficulty of determining whether specific behaviors should be considered abnormal is examined. A history of views about abnormal behavior is discussed as is current thinking on the subject. Models used for explaining abnormal behavior are described, and issues related to diagnosis and assessment of psychological disorders are given attention. The primary emphasis of the course is the study of categories of mental disorders and their symptoms as well as possible causes and recommended treatments for specific disorders. Prerequisites: JR Standing.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Alias

CRJ 3043

Subject

PSY

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course is a study of how biological processes, especially activity in the brain and nervous system, relate to behavior. Special attention will be given to addiction and brain function.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will apply the predominant constructs and methods of inquiry associated with the science of psychology to the domain broadly considered as religion. Students will investigate the varied ways in which an individual’s faith system influences their behavior and mental processes. Positions on religion by major theorists in the discipline will be considered and evaluated. Prerequisite: PSY 1013 PSY 3083 Social Psychology (Same as SOC 3083) This course is a study of behavior in social contexts, including interpersonal attraction, group dynamics, leadership, conformity, and a host of additional social psychology constructs and theories. It is the intent of this course to introduce you to those variables and relationships that describe and even predict human behavior as influenced by the presence of others. PSY 3093 Social Research Methods (same as CRJ/HSE/ SOC 3093) It is the intent of this course to introduce you to the tools and techniques of inquiry in the social sciences. During the term you will be exposed to the vocabulary, the generally accepted yet varied 132 | Page

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Alias

SOC 3083

Subject

PSY

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Subject

PSY

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course provides students the opportunity to investigate characteristics of minority issues. It is a broad introduction to the field of race relations in America. Course work includes theoretical perspectives in intergroup relations and social psychological elements present in minority-majority interactions. The social history of selected minority group experiences in the United States will be studied, along with current issues in American race relations. We will also be learning to bring Helping Profession best practices into the multicultural context which exists in our world today.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will provide the student with psychological and psychosocial explanations of crime. Students will explore specific psychological aspects that contribute to criminal and deviant behavior such as personality disorders, impulse control disorders, developmental disorders, and substance abuse disorders. Prerequisite or Co-requisite: CRJ 2013 or CRJ 2203.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course is designed to provide the understanding, knowledge and skill set students need to successfully integrate a growing knowledge of psychology and a basic understanding of theology. Psychology and theology have many areas of intersection and common purpose. This course will teach students to clearly articulate these points of connection, to identify areas where the disciplines create contradiction, and practice the psychological disciplines never losing a theological perspective.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

In this course, the student will learn the art and disciplines of meaningful spiritual formation. Students will study the foundational elements of Christian spiritual formation integrating these elements with people helping skills in the current culture. This educational experience will equip and empower the student to continue spiritual growth and formation that sustains personal lives and nurtures the lives of the people we serve.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course teaches basic support skills, benefits, and application of positive spirituality. Depending upon effective communication, positive regard, listening, and prayer; church staff and volunteers learn the best approaches to help individuals, families, and groups achieve and maintain improved wellness. Core conditions of the helping relationship, group dynamics, trauma-informed care, and spiritual transformation are explored, along with the repercussions of shame and spiritual abuse. Emphasis is placed on the need for positive, trusting relationships and the view of God as Healer and Sustainer.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will focus on the primary counseling theories being taught and practiced within the diverse field known as “Christian Counseling.” Both directive and non-directive categories will be examined through the lens of Christian Principles, identifying both pros and cons within each. Theories to be examined include: Undergraduate Academic Catalog 2025-26 Nouthetic Counseling, Impact Therapy, Cognitive Approaches to Counseling, Reality Therapy, Family Systems, and others.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course explores various ways in which the church can be central to supporting the mental health needs of communities. Through case management, groups, individual counseling, and educational programs, church staff and volunteers can have a vital impact on community wellness. Impactful models for grief, addictions, trauma, and family support groups are analyzed. The integration of faith, prayer, and acceptance of individual worth is woven into practice of research-based strategies and conditions for effective mental health support and promotion of change.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Undergraduate Academic Catalog 2025-26 3 PSY 3313 Trauma and Healing Relationships 3 PSY 3323 Trauma-Responsive Interventions 3 PSY 3333 Intersectionality & Trauma 3 PSY 3343 Integrating Faith & Trauma Informed Care 16 Total 15 3 Marriage and Family Studies Minor 3 Students pursuing the Marriage and Family Studies Minor are 3 required to complete fifteen hours of coursework. 14 BHS 3053 Family Dynamics

Subject

PSY

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will discuss the critical need for safe relationships in trauma-informed care. Experiential learning opportunities will be provided to help students develop communication skills related to observation, attending, encouragement, and reflection.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will focus on providing trauma-responsive services across multiple disciplines. Students will learn best practices regarding skills and strategies to promote safety, relationships, and regulation.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will explore the intersection of trauma with culture, history, race, gender, and language. Students will learn how to identify disparities and work to eliminate the impact of structural inequity across service sectors.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will focus on building community resilience through a faith-based lens. Students will integrate core values of Christianity with evidenced-based trauma-informed approaches.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course includes the study of the most prevalent crisis situations facing families today, including but not limited to: divorce, remarriage, addiction, non-marriage, and single parent homes. Attention will be given to Family Systems analysis, ethnic differences, historical shifts, correlational statistics, and future objectives for Human Service Providers.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

complete Total 15

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

120 BHS 3023 Human Development Across the Lifespan

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This foundational course gives students an introduction to life coaching from a Christian worldview perspective. It focuses upon a 1 3 3 | Page

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

18 PSY 3463 Advanced Professional Life Coaching

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This advanced coaching course will explore the principles related to the techniques and approaches in equipping people to sustain lives of positive transformation. To that end, it will focus upon the key elements and practices within performance coaching and working with people that work at a high level. It will also look at the initial k aspects of what is necessary to develop a successful coaching practice.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Total 15 re Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate The Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate at Bluefield University provides the academic coursework necessary for candidates for Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia: (from the Certification Process Handbook for CSACs and CSAC Virginia Board of Counseling) This experience is designed to enhance the skills of an incoming 15 bachelor-level student presently employed or planning a professional career in counseling and will continue to the Master’s Degree in Counseling program at BU. Employment Opportunities for Certified Substance Abuse Counselors (CSACs) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are abundant and diverse. required This program has been designed to contribute toward the education requirements for certification and/or licensure in Virginia and West Virginia. Students are responsible for al understanding all the requirements in the state through which they are seeking certification and/or licensure and for verifying the n current requirements in addition to remaining up-to-date on any changes taking place at the state level. Students are responsible for working with their state board toward identifying all requirements 15 and applying for the appropriate credential. The Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate may be completed and earned independently of and prior to completion of a Bachelor’s Degree. Link to Virginia CSAC requirements and application quired https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Counseling/ApplicantResour ces/CSACapplicationinfo/ 130 | Page

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This is a specialized course of study for qualified students.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Prerequisite

JR standing, and instructor’s approval.

This course provides the student of behavioral sciences with a basic foundation in the components of psychological assessment. The course addresses basic psychological assessment concepts and develops an awareness of the variety of assessment instruments that are available. Students become familiar with the components of the assessment of personality and cognitive ability and discuss the professional and ethical standards and social issues in assessment. Prerequisites: PSY/SOC 3093 and MAT 2023.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course will provide a broad yet detailed study of the learning process, learning theory in its historical perspective, and will develop skills in the application of learning theory to current issues. This study is augmented by integrating learning theory with multiple constructs found in cognitive psychology including judgment, memory, perception, attention, categorization, and problem solving. JR standing.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course is a study of the historical development and contemporary status of psychology. Prerequisites: JR standing Undergraduate Academic Catalog 2025-26

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

This course is an overview of the major theories of counseling as well as practical techniques and information for the counselor-in- training. Personal attributes of counselors are considered, as are important theoretical issues. As each theoretical approach is discussed, its strengths and limitations are identified in general and as they relate to multicultural situations. Students in this class are expected to become knowledgeable about the various theoretical approaches and begin to apply them to a hypothetical client.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Prerequisite

PSY 3043 and JR standing.

This class is a study of the history, processes, and dynamics involved in groups. It will review the theories of group intervention, the stages of group development, the necessary group leadership skills, and the process of leading groups for special populations. Ethical issues in group counseling will be emphasized and the application of group counseling approaches in school and multicultural contexts will be considered. PSY/BHS 4071, 4072, 4073 Psychology and Human Services

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

A subject of special interest may be selected; may be repeated for credit with a different topic. Prerequisites: PSY 3013, JR standing and instructor’s approval.

Subject

PSY

Type

course

Repeatable

may be repeated for credit with a different topic.

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu

Core Requirements: 42 Completion Sequence – Psychology/Human Services Semester 1 Semester 2 ENG 1013 3 COR 1021 1 COM 1023 3 CST 1103 3 MAT 1213 3 BIO 1113 3 PSY 1013 3 BIO 1111 1 COR 1011 1 BHS 3003 3 Elective 3 Total 13 Total 14 Semester 3 Semester 4 COR 2011 1 COR 2021 1 Humanities 3 ESS 2002 2 Math/Science 3 CST 1433 3 Elective 3 Activity Wellness 1 BHS 3023 3 BHS 3053 3 Elective 3 Elective 6 Total 16 Total 16 Semester 5 Semester 6 COR 3011 1 COR 3021 1 PSY 3043 3 PSY 3083 3 1 2 9 | Page

Subject

PSY

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-undergraduate

Source

www.bluefield.edu