MA and MSc Course Offerings
The following course information is provided for your convenience. Schedules are subject to change and should be checked on LORIS, where location information can also be found. Please use the LORIS Browse Classes to check course offerings in Psychology for the current academic year. Full, official academic information, including prerequisites and exclusions, can be found on the academic calendars.
All courses listed on this page are held on the Waterloo campus. For courses held on the Brantford campus, see Psychology (Brantford). For e-learning courses, see Online Learning.
If no faculty member is named, the instructor is to be announced.
Unless otherwise indicated, undergraduate courses are 0.5 credit. Graduate courses may work differently. See academic calendar for details.
* = 1.0 credit
Course Offerings
The general linear model is presented as a tool for the analysis of experimental and survey data. Topics include analysis of the general linear model (simple and multiple regression examples) by least squares, estimates of error, residual and regression sum of squares, analysis of variance for the general linear model, the concept of extra sum of squares, confidence intervals and tests of significance. An integral part of the course is the use of statistical computing packages (e.g., SPSS).
The general linear model is used to analyze some common experimental designs used in psychological research. Results are presented using the Analysis of Variance technique developed in PS600. Topics include qualitative and quantitative variables, factorial designs, orthogonal contrasts, multiple comparisons, randomized block and Latin square designs, split plot designs and more general models and methods. An integral part of the course is the use of statistical computing packages (e.g., SPSS).
An examination of the ways in which qualitative and quantitative research strategies can be used in the development and evaluation of community programs. A variety of methods, including observational strategies, interviews, questionnaires and standardized scales, will be reviewed.
An examination of the broad domain of community psychology and social intervention, including historical roots, key concepts, theories, values, research base and applications to various social settings and social problems. Topics may include prevention/promotion, empowerment of marginalized populations and community mental health.
Under faculty supervision, students become involved in a variety of community settings in roles such as small group leader, consultant, program planner and evaluator, community developer or social change agent. The practicum seminar provides opportunities for mutual support and critical reflection upon these experiences. Case studies and role-plays are also used to build skills in community consultation.
Community psychology theories, research and applied social interventions are presented and discussed with an emphasis on the concepts of social ecology, community, diversity and collaboration. Topics may include psychological sense of community, community capacity building, poverty, oppression and ethics.
A continuation of Community Practicum I (PS615).
The basic principles and developments in the field of cognition are presented. (NOT OFFERED 2023/24)
Basic principles of neuroscience connecting molecular studies with studies of the behavioural actions of the nervous system are presented. (NOT OFFERED 2023/24)
All MSc students in the cognitive and behavioural neurosciences field are required to attend the research seminar. The seminar consists of research colloquia given by students, faculty or outside speakers. The seminar also has a component devoted to training in teaching.
A discussion of selected current substantive issues in social psychology, including both laboratory and field research and theoretical concerns. Topics such as attitudes, social cognition, the self, group dynamics, aggression, altruism, methodology in social psychology and socialization are included. Students are required to develop a research proposal as a major component of the course.
Contemporary research topics and theory in both cognitive and social development from a lifespan perspective. Topics such as memory development, conceptual development, moral development, attachment, language development, parenting style and the socialization of cognition are included. Students are required to develop a research proposal as a major component of the course.
A group of faculty meet regularly with students to discuss specific topics in the research literature. Typically presentations of ongoing research are arranged, involving both students and faculty.
A group of faculty meet regularly with students to discuss specific topics in the research literature. Typically, presentations of ongoing research are arranged, involving both students and faculty.