PSA640 Public Safety Psychology (3 cr.)

This course is designed to help public safety leaders understand the role of the psychologist within law enforcement, fire service, emergency management, emergency medical, private security, and military organizations. The role of the psychologist in crisis management is emphasized. As psychological consumers, managers learn what to expect from the psychologist and how to hire.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Explain the impact of a psychologist on a public safety organization.
2. Identify strategies and traits to look for in hiring a psychologist.
3. Differentiate the roles of a psychologist within a public safety agency.
4. Articulate ways in which to maximize the role of a psychologist within a public safety agency.
5. Analyze how HIPPA can impact internal policy.
6. Construct departmental policies which will formalize the role of the psychologist within the organization.
7. Articulate the differences between an internal department psychologist and a consultant role for the psychologist.