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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Psychology

Psychology

Overview

We offer an associate of art (AA) degree that includes university-level transfer courses and other graduation requirements. Courses include general principles, biological and social psychology, research methods, introductory statistics, biological psychology lab, psychology of death and dying, abnormal behavior, human development, family life and intimate relationships, human sexuality, and psychology of aging.

Degrees Offered

  • A.A.-T. in Psychology
  • A.A. in Psychology
  • Dean Matt Wright
  • Department Co-Chairs Andréa Pantoja-Garvey, PhD
    Mieke San Julian, MA, BCBA, LB​A
  • Phone (916) 484-8283
  • Email PCS-PSYC-Chair@arc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Psychology

The Associate in Arts in Psychology for Transfer (AA-T) provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements for transfer to a California State University. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system and develop an understanding of the core principles and practices of the field in order to build a foundation for their future personal, academic, or vocational paths. Students should work closely with their American River College counselor to ensure that they are taking the appropriate coursework to prepare for majoring in psychology at the institution they wish to transfer to because major and general education requirements may vary for each CSU and the degree may only transfer to specific institutions.

Students must complete the following Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) requirements (pursuant to SB1440, §66746):
• 60 semester or 90 quarter CSU-transferable units
• the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) pattern
• a minimum of 18 semester or 27 quarter units in the major or area of emphasis as determined by the community college district
• obtain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0

All ADTs also require that students must earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P" (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
Required Core:
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology (3) 3
   or PSYC C1000H Introduction to Psychology - Honors (3)
PSYC 310 Biological Psychology 3
PSYC 330 Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3) 3 - 4
   or ECON 310 Statistics for Business and Economics (3)
   or STAT C1000 Introduction to Statistics (4)
   or STAT C1000H Introduction to Statistics - Honors (4)
PSYC 335 Research Methods in Psychology 3
List A:
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
PSYC 305 Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
PSYC 320 Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior (3)
   or PSYC 481 Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
PSYC 342 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
PSYC 354 The Psychology of Family Life and Intimate Relationships in a Diverse Society (3)
PSYC 356 Human Sexuality (3)
PSYC 359 Stress Management and Health (3)
PSYC 361 Psychology of Women in a Multicultural Society (3)
PSYC 370 Human Development: A Life Span (3)
PSYC 373 Child Psychology (3)
PSYC 390 Psychology of Death and Dying (3)
List B:
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
Any course from List A not already used or
PSYC 365 Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
   or SWCD 330 Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
PSYC 372 Child Development (3)
   or ECE 312 Child Development (3)
PSYC 375 Introduction to Geropsychology and the Aging Brain (3)
   or GERON 305 Introduction to Geropsychology and the Aging Brain (3)
PSYC 400 Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
   or SWCD 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
PSYC 401 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)
   or SWCD 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)
PSYC 402 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)
   or SWCD 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)
Total Units: 18 - 19

The Associate in Arts in Psychology for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum 2.0 GPA, including (a) the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • differentiate between scientifically derived knowledge versus pseudoscience within the field of psychology.
  • compare and contrast the major theoretical perspectives in psychology.
  • define and apply basic psychological terminology regarding behavior, cognition, and emotion, and be able to express it clearly when writing or speaking about psychology.
  • evaluate psychological data, use the scientific method, draw reasonable conclusions, recognize the ethical implications of these conclusions, and apply these to personal, community, and scientific problems.
  • employ and integrate psychological principles that lay the foundation for life-long personal growth and development of interpersonal and social skills.
  • demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, justice, and inclusion.

Career Information

This AA-T degree facilitates students’ successful transfer to four-year programs. From there, students are prepared for a variety of careers such as case management, sales and marketing, health care facility administration, teaching, and law enforcement. The degree also prepares students to continue their academic studies in post-graduate programs. Psychologists with graduate degrees and professional certificates also have a broad range of employment opportunities including, but not limited to, licensed psychologists, industrial/organizational psychologists, consumer psychologists, and research psychologists.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Psychology

Psychology focuses on the study of behavior of humans and other animals. It involves both pure and practical application of science to matters of everyday life.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology (3) 3
   or PSYC C1000H Introduction to Psychology - Honors (3)
PSYC 310 Biological Psychology 3
PSYC 330 Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3) 3 - 4
   or ECON 310 Statistics for Business and Economics (3)
   or STAT C1000 Introduction to Statistics (4)
   or STAT C1000H Introduction to Statistics - Honors (4)
PSYC 335 Research Methods in Psychology 3
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
PSYC 320 Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 370 Human Development: A Life Span (3)
PSYC 373 Child Psychology (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
Any course not used from the prior list or
PSYC 305 Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior (3)
   or PSYC 481 Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
PSYC 342 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
PSYC 354 The Psychology of Family Life and Intimate Relationships in a Diverse Society (3)
PSYC 356 Human Sexuality (3)
PSYC 359 Stress Management and Health (3)
PSYC 361 Psychology of Women in a Multicultural Society (3)
PSYC 365 Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
   or SWCD 330 Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
PSYC 372 Child Development (3)
   or ECE 312 Child Development (3)
PSYC 375 Introduction to Geropsychology and the Aging Brain (3)
   or GERON 305 Introduction to Geropsychology and the Aging Brain (3)
PSYC 390 Psychology of Death and Dying (3)
PSYC 400 Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
   or SWCD 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
PSYC 401 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)
   or SWCD 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)
PSYC 402 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)
   or SWCD 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)
Total Units: 18 - 19

The Psychology Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • differentiate between scientifically derived knowledge versus myth and conjecture within the field of psychology.
  • compare and contrast the major theoretical orientations in psychology.
  • define basic psychological terminology regarding behavior, cognition, and emotion, and be able to express it clearly when writing or speaking about psychology.
  • evaluate psychological data using the scientific method, draw reasonable conclusions, recognize the ethical implications of these conclusions, and apply these to personal, community, and scientific problems.
  • employ psychological principles that lay the foundation for life-long personal growth and development of interpersonal and social skills.
  • demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, justice, and inclusion.

Career Information

The Psychology degree is designed to facilitate students’ successful transfer to four-year programs that prepare them for advanced study in a variety of graduate programs. Psychologists with graduate degrees and professional certificates have a broad range of employment opportunities including, but not limited to, clinical practice, research, and teaching. Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings and with a wide range of clients. Research psychologists work in a range of fields associated with the study of human behavior, including biomedical, sports psychology, and cognitive neuroscience.

Psychology (PSYC) Courses

PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC C1000/300, PSYC 1000H/480, and PSYC 305 combined: maximum credit, 1 course)
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course was formerly known as PSYC 300 General Principles.

This course is an introduction to psychology, which is the study of the mind and behavior. Students
focus on theories and concepts of biological, cognitive, developmental, environmental, social, and
cultural influences; their applications; and their research foundations. This course was formerly known as PSYC 300 and is not open to students who have successfully completed PSYC 300, 480, or C1000H.

PSYC 305 Psychology Applied to Modern Life

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC C1000/300, PSYC 1000H/480, and PSYC 305 combined: maximum credit, 1 course)
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 115
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores human behavior, emphasizing the practical aspects of psychology in everyday life utilizing both psychological theory and research. Topics include personality, stress and coping, self-understanding, communication, interpersonal relationships, gender, sexuality, psychological disorders and their treatment, personality, personal values, and positive psychology.

PSYC 310 Biological Psychology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:PSYC C1000 or C1000H with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L5; Cal-GETC Area 5B
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 150
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines the physiological determinants of behavior and cognition. The role of genetics, neural development, neural communication and pathways, brain structures, neurotransmitters, drugs, endocrine system, and sensory systems in typical and atypical behavior and cognition are addressed. Current theories related to the role of neural and biological processes in the etiology and treatment of psychological disorders, motor disorders, and other central nervous pathologies are presented. Ethical standards for human and animal research are discussed.

PSYC 311 Biological Psychology Laboratory

  • Units:1
  • Hours:54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:PSYC 310
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Cal-GETC Area 5C
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course involves the applied study of the nervous system focusing on its anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and impact on behavioral and mental processes. It provides a foundation in the principles of the scientific method and practical experience in its application to the study of biological psychology. Specific topics include anatomy, physiology, and organization of the nervous system, with special emphasis on the brain; anatomy and physiology of the neuron; physiology of nerves and nerve conduction; the biochemistry of the synapse; anatomy and physiology of sensory systems; and psychophysical examination of sensation and perception. It utilizes brain dissection procedures, interactive computer simulations, and lab experiments with data collection and analysis.

PSYC 320 Social Psychology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:PSYC C1000 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 170
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course analyzes human behavior in relation to the social environment and provides students with an introduction to the scientific study of how people think about, influence, and relate to one another. Students become familiar with the major domains of social psychology and the relevance of social psychology to daily life, including the power of the situation, other individuals, and the social group. Topics include aggression, prejudice, attraction, altruism, conflict resolution, attitude change, conformity, gender roles, cultural norms, person perception, and social cognition.

PSYC 330 Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:Through the Los Rios Placement Process or successful completion of Algebra II/Integrated Math 3 or Intermediate Algebra.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: ECON 310, PSYC 330, STAT C1000/300, STAT C1000H/480, and STAT 305 combined: maximum credit, 1 course )
  • General Education:Local GE L2; Cal-GETC Area 2
  • C-ID:C-ID MATH 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course focuses upon the concepts and applications of descriptive and inferential statistics in psychology and other behavioral sciences. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability and sampling distributions, parametric and nonparametric statistical methods, hypothesis testing, statistical inference and power, correlation and regression, chi-square, t-tests, and analysis of variance procedures. Application of both hand computation and statistical software to data in a social science context is emphasized to include the interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings.

PSYC 335 Research Methods in Psychology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:PSYC C1000 AND PSYC 330 or STAT C1000 with a grade of 'C' or better.
  • Advisory:ENGL C1000, ENGL C1000H, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L1B; Local GE L4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 200
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces students to the various psychological research methods and to the critical evaluation of research. It emphasizes research design, experimental procedures, descriptive methods, instrumentation, and the collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of research data. Research design and methodology are investigated through a review of research in a variety of sub-disciplines in psychology. Students gain knowledge in scientific writing, including proficiency in APA style.

PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 120
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the broad questions of normality and abnormality. Topics include the investigation of specific mental, emotional, and behavioral difficulties and current approaches to psychological intervention including present community mental health practices. It considers the contribution of social, biological, and psychological factors to the development and persistence of behavior disorders. This course is not open to students who have taken PSYC 481.

PSYC 342 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:PSYC C1000 or 305 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course focuses on basic behavioral principles that describe relations between operant behavior and the social and physical environment. It examines behavior as a part of the natural world and in everyday situations. This course focuses on principles of operant conditioning, such as reinforcement, extinction, differential reinforcement, and punishment, as they are related to naturally occurring events. Additional topics include experimental and intervention procedures of applied behavioral analysis. The course also covers practical applications including self-management, institutional settings, schools, child behavior management, as well as treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders.

PSYC 354 The Psychology of Family Life and Intimate Relationships in a Diverse Society

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID SOCI 130
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of family life and intimate relationships from historical, sociological, and psychological viewpoints. Topics include elements for building and maintaining intimate relationships, the structure and functions of marriage, family, sexuality, parenting, gender roles, gender diversity, partner selection, conflict, crisis, divorce, and starting over.

PSYC 356 Human Sexuality

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 130
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course offers a balanced scientific understanding of the biopsychosocial perspective on human sexual behavior from birth through adulthood. It provides factual, up-to-date, nonjudgmental information designed to dispel myths, and to facilitate problem identification and possible solutions. Sexuality is explored from historical, cultural, psychological, physiological, sociological, and legal viewpoints.

PSYC 359 Stress Management and Health

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines the connection between stress, stress response, coping, and health. It covers various types of stressors, stress responses, and coping strategies, and the scientific research in these areas. Topics include the impact of stress on physical, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional health. This course focuses on developing healthy ways to cope with stress, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques.

PSYC 361 Psychology of Women in a Multicultural Society

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the psychological effects of society upon women. It emphasizes the exploration of gender roles, sex roles, and stereotypes, as well as the sociocultural, intrapersonal, and interpersonal factors in the development of women.

PSYC 365 Issues of Diverse Populations

  • Same As:SWCD 330
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the values, problems, issues, concerns and counseling needs of diverse populations by race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical/cognitive/emotional/developmental ability, and age. It also explores the cognitive and emotional aspects of prejudice as it relates to institutional and individual discrimination. This course is not open to students who have completed SWCD 330.

PSYC 370 Human Development: A Life Span

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 180
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines human development across the lifespan, from conception through death, by focusing on the main domains in developmental psychology (physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional) as well as the interaction among these domains. It emphasizes development as an on-going process, with an effort to encourage the practical application of the knowledge acquired. This course is designed to provide a foundation for careers in educational, social, psychological, and medical fields as well as a better understanding of one's own developmental process.

PSYC 372 Child Development

  • Same As:ECE 312
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 372, 373, and ECE 312 combined: maximum credit, 1 course )
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID CDEV 100
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional domains and identifies developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence with attention to both typical as well as atypical development in each domain. The influences of culture, family, and the interaction of biological processes and environmental factors are studied. The course covers research methods and data collection approaches. Students will observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages according to developmental theories and research. The material in this course is designed as a foundation for early child care and education, teaching, and parenting. This course is not open to students who have completed ECE 312.

PSYC 373 Child Psychology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC 372, 373, and ECE 312 combined: maximum credit, 1 course )
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces students to the science of child psychology through the analysis of developmental theories and research from globally inclusive perspectives. The course examines key developmental events across the main domains in developmental psychology (physical, cognitive, socioemotional), from conception through late adolescence. Questions about development are investigated, with an emphasis on the role of the scientific method. Typical and atypical psychological development is explored via research studies in addition to contextual influences of culture, society, family, and physical environments on children’s behavior and mental processes from globally inclusive perspectives. Additionally, this course provides a scientific foundation for future studies in social sciences, including psychology.

PSYC 375 Introduction to Geropsychology and the Aging Brain

  • Same As:GERON 305
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces foundation theories and constructs of gerontology and psychology to examine the aging-related biopsychosocial changes that influence how mature and older adults feel about themselves, how they process information, and how they encode memories about what they experience and learn. Special emphasis is placed on psychological differences between aging cohorts based on psychosocial factors present during the decade of birth and earlier stages of life, gender/sex and race/ethnicity, the social determinants of health, bias development, prejudice and discrimination, and racism, ableism, sexism, and ageism. Topics include psychological theories, models, and constructs that have practical application during interactions with older people; stages of life and phases of aging; aging-related changes (senescence) and the psychological impact of those changes; how illnesses, diseases, and disabilities complicate aging; the anatomy of the central and peripheral nervous systems; and models of sensorineural processing and learning/memory. Case studies are utilized to explore older adult health and mental health, personality and communication behaviors, environmental factors, and the impact of the social determinants of health on overall well-being, quality of life, and aging outcomes. This course is not open to students who have completed GERON 305.

PSYC 390 Psychology of Death and Dying

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course investigates beliefs, attitudes, anxieties, and behaviors associated with dying and death. Information about suicide, life-threatening illnesses, bereavement, and euthanasia are presented.

PSYC 400 Introduction to Chemical Dependency

  • Same As:SWCD 340
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines the biopsychosociocultural effects of chemical dependency on the individual and the family. It includes an analysis of alcohol and drug use; misuse and abuse across age, gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, and economic conditions contributing to substance abuse; and a description of community efforts at prevention and treatment. This course is not open to students who have completed SWCD 340.

PSYC 401 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs

  • Same As:SWCD 341
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:PSYC 400 and SWCD 340 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the absorption, metabolism, and the mechanism of action of alcohol and other psychoactive drugs including opiates, stimulants, depressants, cannabinoids, and psychedelics. It includes the pharmacological mechanisms as well as the social and psychological implications of tolerance, habituation, and substance abuse of the user and abuser. This course is not open to students who have completed SWCD 341.

PSYC 402 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery

  • Same As:SWCD 342
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:PSYC 401 and SWCD 341 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study and evaluation of techniques used in the treatment of alcohol dependency. This course will cover both physical and psychological effects of alcohol use, abuse and the impact on family and society. Topics include prevention, intervention, individual and group counseling, detoxification, twelve-step program, therapeutic communities, aftercare programs, harm reduction and addressing high risk drinking. This course is not open to students who have completed SWCD 342.

PSYC 415 Studying in London: Psychological Elements of British Life and Culture

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course, offered in a London study abroad program, surveys elements in British history and culture that have influenced the science of psychology. It emphasizes the influences of Sigmund Freud, Charles Darwin, Sir Francis Galton, and the events of World War II to current psychological theories. Additionally, the course examines the social norms in English culture in comparison to other cultures. Field trips are required.

PSYC C1000H Introduction to Psychology - Honors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: PSYC C1000/300, PSYC 1000H/480, and PSYC 305 combined: maximum credit, 1 course)
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course was formerly known as PSYC 480 Honors General Principles.

This course is an introduction to psychology, which is the study of the mind and behavior. Students
focus on theories and concepts of biological, cognitive, developmental, environmental, social, and
cultural influences; their applications; and their research foundations. This is an honors course. This honors course is for psychology majors, behavioral science majors, and other students who desire a challenging, issues-oriented introduction to the general principles of psychology. Topics include the scientific method, statistics, biological determinants, and general processes of behavior, such as development, learning, language, intelligence, perception, motivation, emotion, personality, and mental health. In comparison to PSYC C1000, this honors course uses an intensive instructional methodology designed to challenge students and cultivate advanced critical thinking skills. Instruction emphasizes critical thinking in a seminar style, where the focus is on analysis and evaluation of psychological theories and research studies as they relate to practical, everyday issues. Honors students will also develop proficiency in library and internet-based research, make oral and written presentations, and participate in student-led group discussions. An APA style research paper is also required.
This course was formerly known as PSYC 480 and is not open to students who successfully completed PSYC C1000, 300, or 480.

PSYC 481 Honors Abnormal Behavior

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:Placement into ENGWR 480 through the assessment process.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L4; Local GE L7B; Cal-GETC Area 4
  • C-ID:C-ID PSY 120
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This honors course is for psychology majors, behavioral science majors, and others who desire a challenging, critical thinking, and issues-oriented exploration of normality and abnormality. It examines the origins, symptoms, and treatment of psychological disorders through first-person accounts, the role of multicultural factors, and various theoretical stances. It focuses on thorough analysis and evaluation of biopsychosocial theories and research studies as they relate to the development and persistence of behavior disorders and treatment approaches. In comparison to PSYC 340: Abnormal behavior, this honors course uses an intensive instructional methodology designed to challenge motivated students and cultivate advanced critical thinking skills. Instruction emphasizes critical thinking in a seminar style, where the focus is on analysis and evaluation of psychological theories, case studies, journal research articles, and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) as they relate to the understanding of abnormal psychology. Honor students will also develop proficiency in library and internet-based research, make oral and written presentations, and participate in student-led group discussions. This course is not open to students who have taken PSYC 340.

PSYC 495 Independent Studies in Psychology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

PSYC 499 Experimental Offering in Psychology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog