Psychology (PSYC)

Brad Woldt, Head
Department of Psychology
Scobey Hall 336
605-688-4322
e-mail: bradley.woldt@sdstate.edu

Faculty

Professor Woldt, Head; Professors Emeriti Branum, Hillner, Norris; Professors Phelps, Spear, Woldt; Associate Professors Nowell, Shaffer; Assistant Professors Martin, Woster.

Programs

The Department offers a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Psychology. Students interested in preparation for a specific area may pursue one of three specializations: the graduate school preparation specialization, the teaching specialization (preparation for secondary school teaching), or the psychological services specialization.

The minimum departmental requirement for a psychology degree is 30 credits prefixed PSYC which include 101 or 102, 373 or 375, 390, and 409 and STAT 281. A minimum grade of “C” is required in all Psychology courses. Minimum college and university requirements are given in the appropriate sections of this catalog and are incorporated in the curriculum plans listed later. Advisers assist students to personalize curriculum plans.

Graduate School Preparation Specialization
The graduate school preparation specialization is designed to provide preparation for continued training in psychology at the graduate level. It establishes a strong foundation in principles of psychology, techniques for analyzing behavior, historical findings, and theoretical approaches.A minimum grade of “B” is required in all Psychology courses.

Teaching Specialization
The Teaching specialization in psychology prepares students to qualify for certification to teach in secondary schools. Students pursuing this specialization should contact the College of Education and Human Sciences before their junior year to obtain complete teacher education information and guidance. See Teacher Education.

Psychological Services Specialization
The Psychological Services specialization is designed for those persons interested in working as diagnostic and therapeutic aides in human services facilities. The program for this specialization includes familiarization with standard tests and techniques of therapy, as well as a supervised senior internship at a treatment facility.

Minor
The minor in Psychology consists of the following courses: PSYC 101 or 102, and 14 or 15 additional credits of 300-400 level courses for a total of 18 credits.