May 10, 2024  
2019-2020 APU Catalog 
    
2019-2020 APU Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

OS - Outdoor Studies

  
  • OS 21500 - Mountain Rescue


    (4) This course provides an introduction to the technical skills required for both improvised and organized rescues on steep terrain. The curriculum includes static and dynamic loads, technical rope skills, the tandem prusik belay, pulley systems, highlines, and assorted single and double rope rescue methods. Prerequisite: OS 11400 . Offered Summer.
  
  • OS 21600 - Introduction to Search and Rescue


    (2) This course provides an introduction to search history, management, planning, strategy, and tactics for finding lost or injured persons in forest and alpine environments as well as in caves and avalanches. Satisfies EE Personal Responsibility for Foundational Studies. Offered Fall.
  
  • OS 28000 - Directed Study


    (1-4) Individual study in a given field under the guidance of a regular faculty member and by permission only. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 28500 - Practicum


    (1-12) The practicum is an integral part of the student’s pre-professional preparation. It will help them identify career areas to pursue and network with professionals in that field of work. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 29000 - Teaching Assistant


    (1-4) Teaching assistant (TA) helps faculty with instructional responsibilities including teaching lessons, coaching skill development and peer mentoring. The assistantship gives student an opportunity to practice and polish outdoor educator skills in the instructor team of an existing APU course (also referred to as parent course in this document). Teaching assistantship should contribute to student’s academic growth and degree goals. Teaching Assistantship can be repeated and taken for 1-4 credits. Prerequisite: Prior completion of the parent course as a student OR instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 29200 - Special Topics


    (1-4) Special topics in various fields are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 30200 - Wildland Ecosystems and Human Impacts


    (4) A field course for college students and professionals interested in applied field research techniques. Students in this course travel by nonmotorized methods such as sea kayaking while applying research techniques used in measuring human impacts on remote ecosystems. Course content includes temperate ecosystems; human use and management; and field research techniques including water sampling and radial transects. Class project will include entering and analyzing data. Wilderness living, sea kayaking, and database skills are necessary, instructor approval required. Lab fee required. Offered Summer or Fall.
  
  • OS 30300 - Applied Exercise Physiology


    (4) This course is a survey of the scientific principles, methodologies and research as applied to exercise and physical performance. The emphasis is on physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic physical exercise. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 31000 - Expedition Leadership


    (4) Expedition Leadership introduces students to the process of leading wilderness expeditions. Students will assist in planning, organizing, leading, and evaluating a twenty-one day expedition. Lab fee required, plus personal food, equipment, and transportation costs. Prerequisite: OS 11000  or instructor permission. Offered Fall.
  
  • OS 31200 - Expedition Mountaineering


    (4) This class is an extended Alaskan mountaineering expedition. Topics include glacier travel, winter camping, snow and ice climbing, ski mountaineering, route finding, risk management, decision making, and hazard evaluation. Lab fee required, plus personal food, equipment, and transportation costs. Prerequisites: OS 11400 , OS 11200  or instructor permission. Offered Summer.
  
  • OS 31300 - Expedition Sea Kayaking


    (4) A two-to three-week sea kayaking expedition in the coastal environment. In addition to practicing the skills of safe sea kayaking, students will help organize and lead the trip. Topics include advanced strokes, bracing, rescues in rough water, secondary stability, boat/ paddle selection, trip planning, minimum impact camping, and hazard evaluation. Lab fee required, plus personal food, equipment, and transportation costs. Prerequisites: OS 11000  and OS 11300  or instructor permission. Offered Spring or Summer.
  
  • OS 31600 - Expedition Glacier Travel


    (4) Expedition Glacier Travel emphasizes the skills required for traveling and climbing in Alaska’s heavily glaciated mountain ranges. Snow camping, expedition behavior, crevasse rescues, snow and ice climbing, route finding, peak ascents, and avalanche hazard evaluation will be emphasized. Lab fee required, plus personal food, equipment, and transportation costs. Prerequisites: OS 11400  and OS 11200 ; or instructor permission. Offered Summer.
  
  • OS 32500 - Snow Science for Outdoor Professionals II


    (4) This advanced snow science course allows students to explore a research question about snow science. The class will use field days to gather data to answer these questions. The participants will apply their previous knowledge of snow and avalanches while learning to forecast avalanche instability in the course area. Lab fee covers additional field instructor, transportation and group gear. Prerequisite OS 21000 . Offered Spring.
  
  • OS 37000 - Risk Management for Outdoor Professionals


    (2) Risk Management for Outdoor Professionals will discuss the components of risk management in the outdoor profession. Topics include risk management and emergency response planning, legal and ethical responsibilities of risk management, and risk transfer topics such as insurance and participant agreements. Students will develop a risk management and emergency response plan. Prerequisite: OS 20100 . Offered Fall.
  
  • OS 38000 - Directed Study


    (1-4) Individual study in a given field under the guidance of a regular faculty member and by permission only. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 38500 - Practicum


    (1-12) The practicum is an integral part of the student’s pre-professional preparation. It will help them identify career areas to pursue and network with professionals in that field of work. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 39200 - Special Topics


    (1-4) Special topics in various fields are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 40100 - The Business of Recreation


    (4) An investigation of the concepts and theories of administration and management of recreational organizations. Theories, processes, and legal concepts behind established and entrepreneurial recreational organizations. Topics and projects include funding, incorporation, personnel and fiscal management, community relations, and liability as related to recreational services. Offered Fall.
  
  • OS 40200 - Outdoor Education


    (4) Application of the theories and techniques of teaching in and about the natural environment. This course will develop, implement, and evaluate programs for local schools using standard environmental curriculum. Course will include off-campus field component and lab fee. Offered Spring.
  
  • OS 40300 - Alaska Natural History Interpretation


    (4) This course explores the techniques and theories used by public land administrators to interpret the Alaskan natural environment. Interpretive trail alignment and displays, as well as oral and written interpretive presentations are emphasized.  Lab fee required. Offered Fall.
  
  • OS 40400 - Research Methods for Outdoor & Environmental Studies


    (4) In this course, students explore relevant methodological issues of qualitative, quantitative, and conceptual research.  Students also become familiar with post-positivism, including feminist and post-colonial critiques of academic work.  Students engage in a community based research effort, as part of a student project.  Prerequisite:  . Offered Fall.
  
  • OS 40500 - Recreation and the Public Land Resource


    (4) Surveys the evolution of United States public land policy, the agencies that manage public land, the relevant public land legislation, and the people who recreate on public land. Offered Spring.
  
  • OS 47000 - Advanced Topics in Outdoor Leadership


    (2) This class will cover trends, theories, and concepts related to outdoor leadership and ethics. Topics include leadership theories and facilitation, ethical issues of outdoor activities, group dynamics and development, and individual behavior and motivation. Offered Spring.
  
  • OS 48000 - Directed Study


    (1-4) Individual study in a given field under the guidance of a regular faculty member and by permission only. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 48500 - Practicum


    (1-12) The practicum is an integral part of the student’s pre-professional preparation. It will help them identify career areas to pursue and network with professionals in that field of work. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 49200 - Special Topics


    (1-4) Special topics in various fields are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed. Offered as needed.
  
  • OS 49800 - Senior Project Proposal


    (2) Students develop their senior project proposal including description, timeline, learning outcomes, methodology, risk management, research proposal, budget, and other relevant topics. Offered Fall/Spring.
  
  • OS 49900 - Senior Project


    (6-10) The senior project is the culmination of the student’s academic career. The goal of the class is to help the student identify, plan, implement, and evaluate a project that focuses the student’s skills and knowledge in a way that demonstrates his or her professional interests. This seminar will meet weekly. Prerequisite:  . Offered as needed.

PE - Physical Education

  
  • PE 10200 - Fitness for Life


    (2-3) Students learn the basics of exercise physiology, cardiovascular and muscular conditioning, diet, nutrition and weight control, health risk factors, and stress management. Emphasis is on self-evaluation and personalized program planning to maintain fitness throughout life. Satisfies EE Personal Responsibility for Foundational Studies. Offered Fall/Spring.
  
  • PE 10300 - Beginning I Level Physical Education and Outdoor Skill Activities


    (1-2) Satisfies EE Personal Responsibility for Foundational Studies (1 credit required). Offered as needed.
       
    (Topic course number range from PE 10301 to PE 10399 and PE 20301 to PE 20399 in schedule)
    Selected Topics:  
    Advanced Alpine Skiing Advanced Cross-Country Skiing
    Aerobic Conditioning Bouldering Circuit/Weight Training I
    Crosstraining Cycling
    Lifetime Fitness Nordic Skiing
    Physical Education Run/Ski
    Running & Circuit Training Self-Defense through Marial Arts
    Shoshin Ryu/Martial Arts Skate Skiing
    Swimming Water Aerobics
    Weight Training I Weight Training II
    Yoga  
       

     

  
  • PE 20300 - Beginning II Level Physical Education and Outdoor Skill Activities


    (1-2) Satisfies EE Personal Responsibility for Foundational Studies (1 credit required). Offered as needed.
       
    (Topic course number range from PE 10301 to PE 10399 and PE 20301 to PE 20399 in schedule)
    Selected Topics:  
    Advanced Alpine Skiing Advanced Cross-Country Skiing
    Aerobic Conditioning Bouldering Circuit/Weight Training I
    Crosstraining Cycling
    Lifetime Fitness Nordic Skiing
    Physical Education Run/Ski
    Running & Circuit Training Shoshin Ryu/Martial Arts
    Skate Skiing Swimming
    Water Aerobics Weight Training I
    Weight Training II Yoga
       
  
  • PE 30300 - Intermediate Level Physical Education and Outdoor Skill Activities


    (1-4) Upper level physical education offerings.

    (Topic course number range from PE10301 to PE10399; PE20301 to PE20399; PE30301-PE30399;and PE 40301 to PE40399 in schedule). Offered as needed.

    Advanced Alpine Skiing Advanced Cross-Country Skiing 
    Aerobic Conditioning Bouldering Circuity/Weight Training I
    Crosstraining Cycling
    Lifetime Fitness Nordic Skiing
    Physical Education Run/Ski
    Running & Circuity Training Shoshin Ryu/Martial Arts
    Skate Skiing Swimming
    Water Aerobics Weight Training I
    Weight Training II Yoga

     

  
  • PE 40300 - Advanced Level Physical Education and Outdoor Skill Activities


    (1-4) Satisfies EE Personal Responsibility for Foundational Studies (1 credit required). Offered as needed.

     

    Topic course number range from PE10301 to PE10399; PE20301 to PE20399; PE30301-PE30399;and PE 40301 to PE40399 in schedule. 

    Advanced Alpine Skiing Advanced Cross-Country Skiing
    Aerobic Conditioning Bouldering Circuit/Weight Training I
    Crosstraining Cycling
    Lifetime Fitness Nordic Skiing
    Physical Education  Run/Ski
    Running & Circuit Training Shoshin Ryu/Martial Arts
    Skate Skiing Swimming
    Water Aerobics Weight Training I
    Weight Training II Yoga

     


PH - Philosophy

  
  • PH 20100 - Introduction to Philosophy


    (4) Introduction to basic elements of philosophy, its history, foundational principles, theoretical and practical issues in the field of philosophy. Satisfies CH Intellectual Traditions for Foundational Studies. Offered as needed.
     
    (Topic course numbers range from PH 20101 to PH 20105 in schedule)
    Selected Topics:
    PH 20100 Introduction to Philosophy
    PH 20103 Philosophy of History
    PH 20104 Philosophy of Religion

     

  
  • PH 20200 - Introduction to Ethics


    (4) This course will be an introduction to the theoretical and practical issues in the field of philosophical ethics. Satisfies CH Intellectual Traditions for Foundational Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PH 20300 - Symbolic Logic


    (4) This course will introduce the student to the full spectrum of skills in symbolic logic. This course will begin to make the student more conscious of the process and techniques of how to solve problems. In developing these skills, the student will have to begin to identify distinct kinds of problem situations, recognize the general principles that control the solution of the identified problems, and then choose and apply the appropriate techniques for negotiating the identified solutions. Students will also be expected to understand and develop skills involving the proving of theorems. Satisfies CH Intellectual Traditions for Foundational Studies. Prerequisite: MT 10100 . Offered as needed.
  
  • PH 20400 - Introduction to Philosophy of Science


    (4) Introductory topics in Philosophy of Science. Satisfies CH Intellectual Traditions for Foundational Studies. Offered Spring.
     
    Selected Topics:
    PH 20400 Philosophy of Science
    PH 20402 Philosphy of Science:  Philosophy of the Mind

     

  
  • PH 30100 - Advanced Philosophy


    (4) Close study and critique of individual texts in philosophy, with emphasis on understanding the work in the context of the tradition from which they emerge. Prerequisite: Introductory course in Philosophy or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
     
    (Topic course numbers range from PH 30100 to PH 30104 in schedule)
    Selected Topics:
    PH 30101 Advanced Philosophy
    PH 30103 Advanced Philosophy of History
    PH 30105 Advanced Philosophy of Religion

     

  
  • PH 30400 - Advanced Philosophy of Science


    (4) An advanced level course in philosophy of science will closely study more difficult texts in careful attempt to work out the full complexity of the author’s meaning. Students will be asked to engage in close study and critique of individual texts in philosophy of science, with emphasis on understanding the works in the context of the tradition from which they emerge. Prerequisites: Introductory course in Philosophy or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
     
    (Topic course numbers range from PH 30400 to PH 30402 in schedule)
    Selected topics:
    PH 30400 Advanced Philosophy of Science
    PH 30401 Advanced Philosophy of Science:  Philosophy of Time
    PH 30402 Advanced Philosophy of Science:  Philosophy of Mind

     


PY - Psychology

  
  • PY 10100 - Introduction to Psychology


    (4) The course is designed to introduce students to the science of psychology and the breadth of topics within the discipline. Topics to be explored may include the biology of behavior, learning and behavior, sensation, perception, memory and consciousness, intelligence, development, motivation and emotions, personality, social psychology, and psychopathology. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Offered Fall/Spring.
  
  • PY 15000 - Psychology of Adjustment and Change


    (4) This course covers how human beings adjust to the challenges of living as they grow, learn, build relationships, develop careers, and search for personal meaning. Study includes current concepts, theories, and research regarding psychological effects of change, and useful strategies for dealing with the stresses of everyday life. Satisfies the Self-Understanding requirement of the Counseling Psychology degree. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 20200 - Psychology of Sustainability


    (4) Students will explore and apply concepts of psychology to living in a communal setting. This course will explore the research and processes of building relationships, developing sustainable systems of living, understanding the interrelatedness of people and natural environment within a local community system, and the expression of oneself within groups representing diversity. The implications of climate change will be examined. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Broader Connections elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 21000 - Professional Orientation and Ethics


    (4) Exposure to a broad range of career directions available in psychology as a profession, and extensive practice of the cognitive, problem solving, and writing styles of modern, scientific psychology. Classroom debates, guest speakers, field trips, and individualized projects are used to expand students’ understandings of the diversity and challenges of psychological science and practice. Ethical considerations related to counseling psychology will be emphasized. Prerequisite:  . Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 21500 - Lifespan Human Development


    (4) Introduction to basic concepts, theories, and issues of human lifespan developmental psychology. Special attention given to the interrelatedness of physical, cognitive, personality, social, cultural, and spiritual components of development. Includes a developmental examination of family and intimate relationship issues to provide social context for individual development. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Satisfies the SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Developmental Approaches elective for PY Major Studies. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 22400 - Mindfulness: Exploring Mind-Body Psychology


    (4) The class explores the relationship between mindfulness and mind-body psychology or the use of “mind” in promoting healing and prevention of “disease” in its broadest sense. Students will examine theories and research in the field, especially regarding how mindfulness is used as an adjunct to cognitive based therapies. Students will work on their own “mindfulness” program. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for foundational studies. Self-Understanding elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 23000 - Psychology of Spirituality and Religion


    (4) This course provides an introduction to the psychology of the spiritual and religious life of the individual. Students will examine theories and research in the field, especially regarding the nature of religion and spirituality, religious socialization, religious and spiritual experience, morality and values, attitudes and outlook on life, the role of religion and spirituality in coping and adjustment as well as mental health and counseling, and the experience and expression of spirituality and religion across the life span. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Broader Connections elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 23100 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences


    (4) This course provides an introduction to the statistics most commonly used in the behavioral sciences. The basic principles of statistics to be covered include sampling and probability, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. Both parametric and nonparametric statistics will be explored. This course also includes an introduction to the use of PC statistical packages for the behavioral sciences. Statistics elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite: BA 10500  ,  MT 10100  or placement test. Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 23500 - Creativity for Healing and Growth


    (4) This course provides an introduction to accessing, understanding, and using the creative process for self-understanding. Students will examine theories and research in the field, and will also be encouraged to express their own perspectives through the use of story, visual art, drama, music, or other pursuits as a way of exploring the course material. The theory and practice of expressive therapies is explored; specific emphasis area for the course varies by instructor. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Self-Understanding elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.

     

  
  • PY 24200 - Family Systems


    (4) Course focuses on the understanding of family structures based on systems theory. Issues commonly confronting intimate relationships are addressed including marriage, children, sexuality, gender roles, lifestyle patterns, and impacts of health, trauma, and disease on family systems. Understanding diverse family systems is stressed. Satisfies SI in Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Broader Connections elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 25000 - Behavioral Sciences for Healthcare Professionals


    (4) This course provides healthcare professionals with foundational concepts of the behavioral sciences as applied to individuals and populations. This course explores the history and latest research of key theories, major advances, and contemporary concepts of psychology and sociology. Students will learn the tools and methods behavioral scientists use for investigation of individual and group behaviors. This course will explore the different stages of human life, from prenatal through end-of-life, and the major biological, psychological and social changes occurring in individuals during them. This course examines assumptions about culture, history, psychology through evidence-based reasoning. Through emphasizing reading, writing, and critical thinking skills, this course helps students build the foundation for a deeper understanding of theory and methods in the social sciences. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry. Offered: Fall.
  
  • PY 26000 - Intimacy, Relationships, and Sexuality


    (4) Explores the psychology of love, sex, and interpersonal relationships. Students will examine theories and research in the field, especially regarding issues of current interest, such as sexual orientation, the abortion debate, reproductive technologies, safer sex practices, and gender similarities and differences. Students are encouraged to apply  information from this course to the building and maintaining of healthy, loving relationships. Satisfies SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry for Foundational Studies. Self-Understanding elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 28000 - Directed Study


    (1-4) Individual study in a given field under the guidance of a regular faculty member and by permission only. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 29000 - Seminar


    (1-4) Small groups meet with faculty members for in-depth study and discussion of a specific topic of common interest. Appropriate course descriptions are published as seminars are offered. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 29200 - Special Topics


    (1-4) Special topics in various fields relating to the study of Psychology are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 30000 - Research Methods in Psychology


    (4) Introduction to the common methods of research in the behavioral sciences. Quantitative and qualitative approaches are examined along with program evaluation and assessment techniques. Course activities include the writing of a research proposal. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Prerequisite: WRIT 20100 , two courses in Psychology or instructor permission. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 31000 - Diversity and Social Justice


    (4) Examination of differing cultural worldviews and the impact culture has on human perceptions, emotions, expectations, and values. Explores the impact of minority status and discrimination on diverse populations. Involves awareness and skill building to encourage greater interpersonal sensitivity and advocacy for social justice needs. Broader Connections elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 31200 - Counseling Skills


    (4) Course provides basic knowledge appropriate to entry level helping professionals. Issues related to legal and ethical concerns, diversity, and the use of skills for a variety of purposes will be addressed. In particular, students will be oriented to Client Centered and Motivational Interviewing theory and practice. Helping Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite: PY 10100  or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 31400 - Group Practice


    (4) Students will learn how groups are used for prevention and intervention of behavioral health and addictive behaviors and for responding to community crises. The basic nature of groups, group formation, structure, development and dynamics will be reviewed. Students will also understand the behavior of groups of individuals from diverse populations. Students will learn basic skills to facilitate groups for task, community development, and intervention purposes. Helping Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite: PY 10100  or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 31500 - Psychology of Women


    (4) This course helps students to connect to their personal, gendered lives with the social and political world in which they live. Students are also encouraged to look beyond the boundaries of their own lives in order to understand (1) the complexity and diversity of women’s experiences in terms of race, social class, sexual orientation, age, and cultural differences, and (2) contemporary debate topics such as the social construction of gender, the earnings gap, sexual harassment, women in the military, and feminist spirituality. Readings include a broad sampling of the wealth of recent scholarship that addresses women’s development and women’s mental health, as well as literature by and about women. Advanced Theory elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite:   or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 32000 - Personality: Theories and Perspectives


    (4) An overview of historical and current models of human personality structure and development, including representative theories from the psychodynamic, type/trait, phenomenological, behavioral, and socialcognitive perspectives. Considers implications for counseling and clinical practice. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Advanced Theory elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite:   or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 32500 - Social Psychology


    (4) A review of classic and more current social psychology research that seeks to reveal patterns of human behavior that may not always be in our conscious awareness. The class looks at issues such as conformity, aggression, self justification, prejudice, liking and loving, and social cognition. Students will be given opportunities to consider implications from the research discussed to their own particular areas of interest. Students will have the opportunity to participate in social psychology experiments/research. Advanced Theory elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite: PY 10100  or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 34000 - Abnormal Psychology


    (4) Psychological, sociocultural, and biological factors related to dysfunctional personalities and related behavioral pathologies. Historical and recent definitions of, attitudes toward, and treatments of abnormality. Partially fulfills admission requirements of the APU Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. Prerequisite:   or instructor permission. Offered Fall odd years.
  
  • PY 35000 - Adventure Therapy


    (4) This course focuses on understanding and critically evaluation the theories, techniques, and practical applications of adventure based therapy. It explores the use of challenge activities, including wilderness experiences, as a method to improve mental health. It specifically addresses group techniques and ethical practice within the field. Helping Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite:    or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 35500 - Positive Psychology


    (4) Although the discipline of Positive Psychology was inaugurated as recently as 1998, the study of psychological factors that make life “worth living” is already flourishing. This course explores human strengths-our own and others’. Human strengths are the qualities and processes that promote life satisfaction and well-being while preventing dissatisfaction and mental illness. Specifically, this course covers the role that strengths play in a variety of areas, including personality, aging, gender differences, intimate relationships, creativity, and decision-making, and then relating personal well-being to global and societal issues. It also includes constructive criticism and future directions for this emerging discipline. Advanced Theory elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite:   or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 36000 - Health Psychology


    (4) This course introduces the psychological, physical and environmental factors influencing mental health. Topics include: biology, stress, and behavior; nutrition, chronic and life threatening illnesses, and treatment seeking; management of pain; complementary and alternative medicines; and developmental factors. Perceptions, beliefs, and issues around healthcare will also be explored. Advanced Theory elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 38000 - Directed Study


    (1-4) Individual study in a given field under the guidance of a regular faculty member and by permission only. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 38500 - Field Experience


    (4-12) Practical work experience in a given area of concentration under the cooperative guidance of a faculty member and an on-the-job supervisor. Required for Psychology majors. Prerequisite:   or permission of instructor. Offered Fall/Spring.
  
  • PY 39000 - Seminar


    (1-4) Small groups meet with faculty members for in-depth study and discussion of a specific topic of common interest. Appropriate course descriptions are published as seminars are offered. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 39200 - Special Topics


    (1-4) Special topics in various fields relating to the study of Psychology are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 42500 - Behavioral Health Interventions


    (4) This course provides an introduction to Behavioral Health and an introduction to Addictive Behaviors. Recovery, health, wellness, and balance are discussed as they relate to the prevention and remediation of problematic behaviors. Counseling as a specific behavioral health strategy is reviewed. Treatment Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 43000 - Diagnoses and Treatment Plans


    (4) Cultural norms, values, and attitudes regarding behavioral health and substance use disorders and the impacts on individuals, families, and communities form the basis of this course. Students learn how to use current DSM and ASAM criteria in a culturally respectful practice that includes advanced interviewing techniques. Treatment Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Prerequisite:   or instructor permission. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 43500 - Co-Occurring Disorders


    (4) This course provides an introduction to Co-Occurring Disorders, specifically addressing the combination of behavioral health and addictive problems, and psycho-physiology and behavioral health physical health concerns. The course relies heavily on case studies and the practice of clinical case management for these complicated presentations. Treatment Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 44000 - Crisis Intervention and Community Resources


    (4) Practical application of crisis intervention theories and skills in the context of community resources. Domestic violence, sexual assault, suicide prevention, wellness resources will be addressed, as well as crises relating to substance abuse and physical/mental disorders. The distinction between non-medical emergency responses and counseling processes will be examined. Students will explore the resources available in their own communities. Treatment Interventions elective for PY Major Studies. Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 48500 - Field Experience


    (1-12) Practical work experience in a given area of concentration under the cooperative guidance of a faculty member and an on-the-job supervisor. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 49200 - Special Topics


    (1-4) Special topics in various fields relating to the study of Psychology are offered as needed. Appropriate course descriptions are published as topics are developed. Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 49800 - Senior Project Proposal


    (8) Students will complete the first few steps of the senior project process: (1) identify and hone their senior project idea and method(s), (2) conduct a substantive literature review, (3) establish a senior project committee, (4) write a project proposal, (5) obtain final approval for the proposal from all committee members, and (6) if needed, submit an IRB application for the proposed project two weeks prior to the end of the semester. Prerequisite:   and  . Offered Fall/Spring.
  
  • PY 49900 - Senior Project


    (4) Students will complete the remaining steps of the senior project process: (1) Conduct the proposed project activities, (2) write about the activities, results/findings, insights, etc., (3) obtain final approval for the finished senior project paper from all committee members, and (4) formally present the senior project in a public forum. Prerequisite: PY 49800 . Offered Fall/Spring.
  
  • PY 60401 - Assessment 1: Substance Abuse and Non-Diagnostic Assessment


    (3) This is class is designed to build competency in the theory and practice of evidenced-based practice in assessment. Students will increase their working knowledge of psychological assessment by focusing on accurately administering and scoring non-clinical personality assessment protocols considered in a therapeutic assessment. The use and limitations of screening tools, substance abuse assessments, and treatment placement evaluations with associated written reports will be discussed. Assessments with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program Offered: Summer.
  
  • PY 60601 - Interventions I: Prevention, Wellness, and Resiliency


    (3) This class is designed to build competency in the theory and practice of evidenced-based practice in interventions that tie the application of scientific data to therapeutic work with others. Students will be exposed to a variety of counseling paradigms current with evidence-based efficacy in the field. A foundational knowledge in therapeutic interventions, the process of change, goal setting, and specific interventions is developed. Students will focus on implementation of therapeutic interventions to establish or increase client skills for prevention, wellness, and resiliency. Some attention will be paid to the assessment of the student’s clinical skills that work to build rapport. Under faculty supervision, opportunities are provided to practice these skills. Prevention, wellness, and building resiliency within indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 60602 - Interventions II: Evidence-Based Practice for Affective and Anxiety-Related Disorders


    (3) This class is designed to build competency in the theory and practice of evidenced-based practice in interventions that tie the application of scientific data to therapeutic work with others. Students will focus on interventions from different modalities that have been shown to have efficacy in working with anxiety and affective disorders. Students will also work on being able to assess for risk of clients’ self-harm or harm to others as well as when it is appropriate to seek consultation and/or supervision. Working with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program. Offered Summer.
  
  • PY 60603 - Interventions III: Evidence-Based Treatment for Children and Families


    (3) This class is designed to build competency in the theory and practice of evidenced-based practice in interventions that tie the application of scientific data to therapeutic work with others. Students will focus on interventions from different modalities that have been shown to have efficacy in working with anxiety and affective disorders. Students will also work on being able to assess for risk of clients’ self-harm or harm to others as well as when it is appropriate to seek consultation and/or supervision. Working with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program. Offered Summer.

     

  
  • PY 60900 - Ethics of Professional Practice


    (3) This course introduces students to the field of counseling psychology and to the multiple roles of professional psychologists, particularly within Alaska. Through readings, videotape presentations, classroom discussion, individual and group presentations, and online interactions, students gain knowledge of ethical and legal issues, professional standards, and diverse interpretations and applications of social justice in counseling psychology. Throughout the course there is attention to issues such as boundary management, supervision, and the roles and responsibilities of psychologists-in-training. Ethical codes of the American Psychological Association and American Counseling Association will be included. Professional practice with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing. Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 61100 - Professional Values and Attitudes


    (3) This course is designed to introduce students to counseling psychology as a science and practice. Students will be exposed to the milieu associated with being a professional in counseling psychology, including finding, reading, and writing about academic literature as well as methods of staying abreast of best practices. Additionally, students will explore ways in which to develop their professional identity within counseling psychology, seek consultation and constructive feedback, and establish an appreciation of the complexity of environments in which counseling psychologists operate. Prerequisites: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program.  Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 61500 - Counseling Theories and Skills


    (3) This course is designed to review, compare, and contrast prevailing theories of counseling, to practice some of the basic methods of counseling, and to develop skills necessary to enhance the counseling relationship. Emphasis is upon communication, self-awareness of one’s own behavior and its effect upon others, and the development of one’s ability to accurately interpret the behavior of others. Under faculty supervision, some limited opportunities are provided to practice these skills. Working with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisites: Admission to MSCP and PsyD Program. Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 62000 - Lifespan Development


    (3) This course will expose students to theories and application of human development across the lifespan. Students will explore significant milestones and issues within development as they relate to counseling psychology. Emphasis will be placed on Alaska and its communities. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program.  Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 62500 - Professional Counseling: Theory, Skills, and Practice II


    (4) This course is designed to practice additional methods of counseling and develop more sophisticated skills necessary to enhance the counseling relationship. Emphasis is upon a variety of counseling paradigms considered to be current in the field. A foundational knowledge in the theory of the helping relationship, the process of change, goal setting, and specific interventions is developed. Under faculty supervision, opportunities are provided to practice these skills. Students also begin to identify internship sites during this course. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 63300 - Research Methodology in Counseling Psychology


    (3) This course provides a theoretical and practical grounding in both quantitative and qualitative research methods and their application to counseling psychology. Data gathering approaches covered include individual and focus group interviews, observational research, case studies, grounded theory, and participatory action research. Classic methods of historical, developmental, survey, and experimental research will also be explored. Indigenous ways of knowing and working with indigenous populations within Alaska will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP and PsyD Program.  Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 64000 - Diagnosis and Treatment Planning


    (3) The course exposes students to diagnostic processes and procedures for identifying and classifying pathological behavior as outlined in the most current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Students will also explore treatment options and planning for diagnoses. Emphasis will be placed on disorders most common in Alaska and its communities. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP and PsyD Program. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 64300 - Assessment in Counseling


    (4) Foundation for conducting psychological assessments in the counseling setting. Hands-on experience with testing and assessment procedures common in the field. Administration of tests, such as the TAT, MMPI-2, MCMI-III, BDI-II, etc. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 64600 - Individual and Cultural Diversity


    (3) Exploration of a broad range of topics relevant to the mental health practitioner, his/her clients, and the sociocultural interactions informing the experiences of both. Of particular importance are cross- and multi-cultural counseling and working with people with varied backgrounds, including gender identities, sexuality and sexual orientation, domestic violence, drug and alcohol issues, aging and geriatric populations, immigrants, and indigenous peoples. Working with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program. Offered Summer.
  
  • PY 64900 - Group Counseling


    (3) The course provides students with a foundation of various methods of group therapy. The course will include an exploration of individual, interpersonal, and group processes that occur within the parameters of group counseling. Working with indigenous populations and Alaskan communities will be emphasized. Prerequisite: PY 61500 Counseling Theories and Skills . Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 65300 - Couples and Family Therapy


    (4) Introduction to current methods of couples and family therapy, e.g., structural, systems, behavioral, etc. The application and efficacy of these methods are emphasized. Prerequisite: PY 62500 . Offered as needed.
  
  • PY 65500 - Design and Principles of Research


    (4) Quantitative and qualitative approaches to conducting research. Foundation of concepts necessary for professional consumption of research literature. Practice in requisite conceptual, speaking, and writing skills for effective professional communication of ideas. Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 65700 - Brief Therapy


    (2) Introduction to the cooperative therapeutic model of solution focused counseling and other brief therapy models. Includes various application and intervention approaches used by the brief therapist. Offered Fall.
  
  • PY 66000 - Career and Lifestyle Counseling: Assessment and Planning


    (3) This course provides a theoretical foundation and opportunities for practical application of career and lifestyle counseling strategies with a diversity of populations across Alaska. It focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to provide professional career counseling services to an adult population in a variety of transitional life stages. Students will have an opportunity to examine major theories of career choice and development, career assessment instruments and their use, and the counseling models associated with these theories and measurements. They will also explore lifestyle and career needs of young, middle, and older adults. Prerequisite: Admission to MSCP or PsyD Program. Offered Spring.
  
  • PY 67000 - Advanced Techniques Topics


    (2) This menu system of topics in counseling techniques offers students the opportunity to focus more intensely on specific areas of counseling that may be of interest to them. The menu of courses includes: Applied Positive Psychololgy, Psychological Trauma, Substance Abuse Assessment & Treatment, Sex Therapy, Play Therapy, Brief Therapies, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness. Prerequisite: Graduate level standing.
  
  • PY 67001 - Applied Positive Psychology


    (2) Applied Positive Psychology offers an overview of research and interventions aimed at adding to human well-being in non-clinical clients. Introduction to seminal research in well-being and character strengths. Overview of beginning skills for intervention design for non-clinical clients. Prerequisite: Graduate level standing.
  
  • PY 67002 - Brief Therapies


    (2) Through this course, students will take a deeper look at the “brief therapies,” such as rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), the cooperative therapeutic model of solution oriented counseling (SO), and other brief therapy models as time permits. Placed in the context of their philosophical underpinnings, the importance of language, and the work of Milton Erickson, the class will include various applications, techniques, and intervention approaches used by the brief therapist. Prerequisite: Graduate level standing.
  
  • PY 67003 - Play Therapy


    (2) This course is an overview of play therapy history, techniques, and practice. Students will have some opportunity in class to practice the skills used in play therapy under the supervision of the instructor. Prerequisite: Graduate level standing.
  
  • PY 67004 - Psychological Trauma


    (2) This introductory class provides the student with a comprehensive exploration of the psychological trauma field, including the history and current theories in the field, the nature of psychological trauma, and how trauma affects individuals and systems. This class will review the cognitive, affective, behavioral, neurological sequelae associated with trauma. Also included in this class is the exploration of the professionals response to trauma, vicarious traumatization, comorbid disorders, ethical practice, and trauma-informed treatment issues. Finally, students have the chance to survey evidence-based practices in the trauma field. Prerequisite: Graduate level standing.
 

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