Q: I have many choices for a course for social and behavioral sciences, why should I take Psychology 2301?

A: Psychology is a science of human behavior and mental processes. PSYC 2301 is a survey of major areas of study in the field of psychology, such as research methods, learning, memory, physiological psychology, life-span development, personality, stress and adjustment, and abnormal behavior. This course transfers as 3 hours of credit to most other colleges and universities.

What you learn in this course will enhance your general knowledge about yourself and others. Leaning about different research methods and perspectives in psychology will develop your skills in analytical and critical thinking. Most importantly, psychology if applied correctly will contribute to better health, better academic performance, better interpersonal relationships, better parenting skills, etc. In other words, psychology can make your life better.

Q: I have some psychological and emotional problems. Can I talk to my Psychology professor about them and receive some counseling?

A: Your Psychology professor is dedicated to your learning of the subject matter. His/Her role is not to serve as a counselor or therapist to students. Most psychology professors were not trained in the areas of counseling and clinical psychology and therefore not qualified to provide psychological counseling. However, your psychology professor may provide some advice and guidance in terms of where to seek professional help. The following website lists some useful web resources for mental health as well as telephone numbers for the local and national health and self-help groups: http://nwc.hccs.edu/psyc/links.html.

Q: I am considering a career in Psychology, how can I get more information about the career opportunities?

A: Please read the section on the career opportunities in Psychology of this same website.

Q: I am interested in Psychology and would like to join a psychology student organization. Does HCCS offer such a student organization?

A: Yes. There is a HCC chapter of Psi Beta, the national honor society for Psychology in community college. There are also psychology clubs at different colleges, most notably, the Psychology Club at Southwest College (Psi Kappa). Please read the section on Student Activities for more detailed information.

Q: I would like to make a really good grade on my psychology course; what do I have to do to achieve this?

A: Here are some tips for making good grades:
1. Do not miss any class.
2. Read the textbook before coming to class.
3. Take notes and be attentive in class. Do not pack up before the class is over.
4. Use the study guide to prepared for the tests.
5. Take all the tests and complete the class assignments on time.
6. Relate the course materials to your real-life experience, and be interested in
psychology itself.

For more suggestions on effective study, go to: http://nwc.hccs.edu/psyc/advice.html