APSY490 Applied Psychology Capstone (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): All other major coursework. This course is taken in the student’s last semester before graduation.  All general education requirements must be fulfilled.
In this course, students integrate knowledge and skills developed in previous coursework and demonstrate how behavioral, social, and cultural frameworks in applied psychology can promote positive change through a field experience project. Students research an instructor-approved focused issue, challenge, or question in applied psychology and formulate creative solutions for the problem.  Students complete an APA research paper and showcase the research, field experience and solution in a final presentation. In addition, students develop concrete strategies for continuing growth and opportunities in their chosen applied psychology field.

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

1. Describe ethical, legal, and professional implications of actions taken in the applied psychology field.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of how behavioral, social, and cultural frameworks in applied psychology can promote positive change within a focused aspect of the discipline.
3. Analyze the impact of applied psychology strategies on a local problem and relate this to regional and global contexts.
4. Summarize the challenges and opportunities that affect applied psychology.
5. Synthesize related research literature on a focused applied psychology topic into an APA research paper.
6. Demonstrate professional interpersonal, small group, and oral presentation skills.
7. Develop strategies for pursuing continued professional development and opportunities.