Psychology

Bachelor of Science

The mind is comples - so is your schedule. Earn your Psychology degree online or on campus.

Psychology Program Overview

Turn empathy into impact with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Quincy College.

Students will build a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, thought processes, and emotional functioning while developing core knowledge and research skills needed for a variety of psychology-related professions, including social work, guidance counseling, and mental health therapy.

With plenty of electives to choose from, students can tailor their Psychology coursework to specific interests, like child development, intercultural communications, or sports psychology, supplementing classroom learning with hands-on practice and internship experience. As a program requirement, students will also complete a culminating capstone project based on their chosen concentration.

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Psychology Program Outcomes

Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in Psychology will be able to:

  • Describe key concepts, principles, and overarching themes of psychology
  • Use scientific reasoning and research data to interpret psychological cases
  • Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science and practice
  • Develop effective communication skills that resonate with various audiences
  • Align psychology-focused knowledge to career goals

Scholarships available

Earn your degree for a fraction of the price.

As of Fall 2023, students with an incoming GPA of 2.5 or above, and with 60 credits accepted for transfer into a baccalaureate program, are eligible for a $125 discount per course, not to exceed a total of $2,500, for as long as the student continues to pursue the same baccalaureate degree program. Please note that the eligibility requirement of 2.5 GPA or above is only for applications received after June 30, 2023. All previous agreements will be honored. QC has final determination on qualifications, award amount, and application of the award.

Questions?
The Admissions Office
[email protected] | (617) 984-1710

Psychology Courses
    •  
    • Code
    • Course
    • Credits
    • BIO 111
    • General Biology I w/Lab
    • 4
    An introductory course in Biology with main emphasis on cell structure and function. Lecture topics include: Gene structure and inheritance, study of plants and fungi, evolution, and ecology. Extensive discussion of concerns facing humanity today including quality of nutrition, environmental pollution, genetic engineering, inheritable diseases, and birth defects. Safety protocols must be observed in all lab classes. These include: no food, no drink, and no open-toe shoes, appropriate clothing. Only registered students may enter labs. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • CSI 101
    • Introduction to Computers
    • 3
    This course introduces the student to general topics about computers, including the impact of technology in a changing world, computer hardware, system and application software, databases, internet, networking, digital ethics and security. Students use word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
    • ENG 101
    • English Composition I
    • 3
    This course will emphasize developing the student’s ability to articulate his/her thoughts in writing a coherent, unified, and well- structured composition. The student will write a series of papers. The student will also learn the techniques needed to produce a library research paper. The required research paper is a major component of the course. Prerequisite: Completion of ENG 090 or placement into ENG 101.
    • ENG 102
    • English Composition II
    • 3
    A required course, which introduces the student to themes and techniques in the basic genres of literature: the short story, drama, and poetry. Expository papers may be written in response to ideas embodied in literature. Prerequisite: ENG 101 or permission of instructor.
    • HSV 260
    • Diverse Populations
    • 3
    An overview of the role of human diversity in social work practice. An examination of the differences as well as the similarities of the various populations in American Society. Topics to be addressed are race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Barriers to cultural understanding and valuing diversity will also be explored.
    • SOC 101
    • General Sociology
    • 3
    An examination of the behavior of humans in social groups. Emphasis will be placed on concepts including culture, society, socialization, role, personality, institutions and social change. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • PSY 101
    • General Psychology
    • 3
    This course is an introduction to the basic concepts, major theories, different theoretical perspectives and research methods in psychology. The focus is on theories of personality, motivation, learning, intelligence, emotions, developmental processes, physiological psychology, perception, and psychological assessment. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • PSY 103
    • Child Development
    • 3
    This course is designed to provide the student with an integrated understanding of child development as it relates to early childhood education. A broad theoretical background is combined with principles of application. Emphasis is on the social context of early development, group processes, influence of the family, role of play, and the development of cognitive capabilities. Visitations to pre-school centers required.
    • PSY 210
    • Psychology of Learning
    • 3
    This educational psychology course will explore the teaching and learning process; teaching with an emphasis on planning effective instructional strategies, classroom management, and assessment. It focuses on human development, learning theories, individual difference, and motivation. Prerequisite PSY 101.
    • PSY 215
    • Abnormal Psychology
    • 3
    This course is a comprehensive study of the major mental disorders as defined by the DSM-IV TR. Etiologies and treatment for each disorder or cluster of disorders will be covered. Major disorders examined include the following: Anxiety disorders, dissociative & somatoform disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, neuropsychological disorders, and disorders of childhood and adolescence. Prerequisites: PSY 101 or permission of the instructor.
    • PSY 216
    • Growth & Development
    • 3
    This course explores human growth and development across the lifespan, from how the fetus develops a preference for familiar voices, to the adolescent identity crisis, to the development of wisdom in late adulthood. The course is organized around major developmental periods in the lifespan. Contributions of significant developmental theorists are highlighted. Placement at ENG 101 level strongly advised.
    • PSY 221
    • Health Psychology
    • 3
    This course is intended to introduce the student to the tenets of health psychology, including, but not necessarily limited to, a history of health psychology; models of health psychology; an examination of the basic principles and theories pertinent to this field including the prevention and modification of health compromising behaviors; as well as the influences of psychosocial factors on mental health (e.g. stress, depression), physical health (e.g. heart disease, chronic illness, pain) and health-related behaviors (e.g. substance use and abuse, aggression, sexual behavior). Prerequisites: PSY 101 or permission of the instructor.
    • PSY 270
    • Psychological Dimensions of Climate Change
    • 3
    This course examines the psychological dimensions of climate change through the lens of environmental psychology, exploring how human behavior, cognition, and emotions shape sustainability efforts. Students will investigate psychological barriers to climate action, including cognitive dissonance, denial, and eco-anxiety, while also examining how built environments, social systems, and policies influence environmental attitudes and behaviors. Through case studies, policy analysis, and applied exercises, students will develop practical strategies to foster pro-environmental behaviors, promote sustainability, and address climate-related mental health challenges.
    • PSY 280
    • Research Design & Methodology
    • 3
    The goal of this course is to familiarize the student with the experimental methods used by psychologists and other social scientists in conducting their research. Students will be exposed to a variety of research designs as well as basic statistical theory covering hypothesis testing, ANOVA, and correlational analyses. Students will participate in the process of conducting research by formulating a testable idea, developing a method by which to test their idea, and communicating their idea to others. Prerequisite: ENG 101 and PSY 101
    • PSY 305
    • Personality
    • 3
    The course provides an overview of the major theories and approaches to the psychology of personality (psychodynamic, phenomenological, cognitive, and learning), methods of assessment and research and the development of individual behavior. Application of personality theory to self-understanding, personal fulfillment and interpersonal relationships will be explored. Topics include historical evolution, philosophical assumptions, conceptual connectedness, and their implications for theory and practice. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and PSY 280.
    • PSY 300
    • Positive Psychology
    • 3
    The broad goal of this course is to examine well-being theory. The main objective is to help students measure and build the elements that contribute to human flourishing. The course is designed to introduce the concepts (e.g., biological, psychological, social, emotional), research behind the concepts, techniques, and activities that enhance wellbeing. In addition, students will have the opportunity to engage in a detailed analysis and positivity change process(es) utilizing validated questionnaires and evidence- based positive psychology and well-being enhancing interventions. Prerequisite: ENG 101 and PSY 101.
    • PSY 301
    • Child Psychology
    • 3
    This course provides the student with a focus of child psychology from the biological, psychological and socioemotional factors of human development from conception to adolescence. Students will analyze theoretical models including Freud, Piaget, Erikson, Kohlberg, Bowlby and Elkind through a sociocultural lens. At the end of the course students should determine which theoretical models are best used to understand development in terms of physical maturation, identity, emotional, cognitive, and social development. Prerequisites: PSY 101 or PSY 103 or permission of the instructor.
    • PSY 307
    • Psychology of Change
    • 3
    This course is a comprehensive look at the psychology of personal change and associated factors, from a biological, sociocultural, and psychosocial perspective. Students will be able to apply their knowledge of the working model to analyze a program of change within an area of interest. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and PSY 216.
    • PSY 311
    • Cognition
    • 3
    This course provides a detailed introduction to the major topics in cognitive psychology. Students will be encouraged to apply concepts to their individual interests across a wide range of careers, such as accounting, computer programming, medicine, engineering, management, nursing, science, education, and mental health. Topics include attention, decision making, emotion, language, learning, memory, neuroscience, perception, problem-solving, and vision. Students will explore the connection between cognitive research and real-world issues of consequence. Prerequisites: PSY 101. PSY 280 Recommended.
    • PSY 317
    • Sensation and Perception
    • 3
    This course explores the psychological areas of sensation and perception, including vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. Physiological, intrapersonal, interpersonal, and cultural implications are also explored. Prerequisites: PSY 101; PSY 280 strongly recommended.
    • PSY 330
    • Social Psychology
    • 3
    Social Psychology examines how human thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and emotions can be influenced by outside factors, such as race, culture, gender, and the influence of others. Social Psychology also delves into the scientific research and methods used to track and study such attitudes and perceptions. Topics covered include social influence, social behavior, self-esteem, gender roles, conformity, aggression, motivation, and prejudice. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and SOC 101.
    • PSY 331
    • Psychology of Gender
    • 3
    This course examines psychological theory and practice through the lens of gender. We will investigate how the psychological and social construct of gender affects experience. Prerequisites: ENG 101, PSY 101, and HSV 260.
    • PSY 340
    • Psychology in the Workplace
    • 3
    This course introduces students to the application of psychological principles in business, industrial and organizational settings. Topics include employee selection, performance assessment, motivation, leadership, teamwork, organizational culture, and employee well- being. This course takes an applied scientist/practitioner approach, covering methods for improving productivity, fostering positive organizational environments, and addressing ethical and diversity issues. Students will explore how psychological insights enhance workplace effectiveness. This course will provide foundational knowledge for understanding and influencing behavior in organizations. Prerequisite: PSY 101 or SOC 101.
    • PSY 350
    • Group Dynamics
    • 3
    A course designed to enable students to understand common group interactions and the individual’s attitudes and reactions to those situations. It aids students in understanding the socialization process, group theory, the characteristics of effective leadership in a variety of group structures, and the skills required to work effectively within teams. Prerequisite: PSY 101.
    • PSY 413
    • Adolescent Psychology
    • 3
    This course is a comprehensive study of adolescence with particular emphasis on the contribution of developmental factors to the psychological, sociological, and biological changes that take place during the passages from childhood into adolescence and from youth into young adulthood. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and PSY 216.
    • PSY 419
    • Consciousness
    • 3
    This course explores the multi-faceted nature of consciousness. Topics include major theories of consciousness; methodological challenges in studying consciousness; ethical considerations related to consciousness; neurobiological mechanisms of consciousness; and practical applications of states of consciousness. Emphasis is placed on an integrative, interdisciplinary approach to understanding consciousness. Prerequisites: PSY 311.
    • PSY 421
    • Psychology of Emotion
    • 3
    This course provides an overview of research and theory on human emotion. This course will help students to both understand themselves and others through the application of psychological principles to emotion in relation to everyday responses to situations. Students will be encouraged to apply concepts to their individual interests across a wide range of careers, such as business, counseling, education, and human services. The topics
    include cultural influences, developmental trajectories, evolutionary foundations, neurology, pathologies, self- regulation, and social relationships. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and PSY 280.
    • PSY 442
    • Cultural Psychology
    • 3
    This course focuses on cultural influences on psychological processes and cultural differences in experience of self and psychological phenomenon. Topics covered include development, relationships, cognition, emotion, gender, sexuality, mental health, morality, and social interactions. Research methods in cultural psychology will be explored. Prerequisites: PSY 101 and HSV 260.
    • PSY 499
    • Psychology Capstone
    • 3
    This psychology capstone course integrates and synthesizes the knowledge and skills of the undergraduate curriculum through the completion of the capstone project. This course also provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate professional skills developed in this program individually and in groups. Prerequisites: PSY 481.
    • PSY 481
    • Advanced Research Seminar
    • 3
    In this course, students deepen research skills and knowledge through practical application. Students develop a research proposal individually and engage in collaborative peer-review, critique and support. Throughout the semester, students engage in assignments that culminate in a proposal for their capstone course project that reflects an integration of their skills and knowledge gained throughout their experience in the program. Prerequisite: PSY 280 with C/73 or better.

Faculty Profiles

Carol DiFalco, Ph. D., LMHC

Education:
Ph.D. in Counseling and Psychology, Lesley University
M.S. in Psychology, Clinical Mental Health, Springfield College
B.S. in Biology, Springfield College

Dr. DiFalco is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and professor of psychology with more than two decades of experience in various clinical and education settings, bridging the worlds of clinical counseling, research, and pedagogy. Dr. DiFalco believes critical thinking and analytical skills are a student’s compass and map for their intellectual journey. These skills empower students to explore the depths of human behavior and emotion, to question conventional wisdom, and to dissect complex phenomena with precision.

At Quincy College, she teaches various courses in the Psychology Program, including Cultural Psychology, Group Dynamics, Psychology of Gender, and Psychology of Change. Her research focuses on advancing critical forms of community engagement curriculum by understanding the relationship between educators and their critical consciousness development. Through her work, she explores meaningful ways educators create bridges between communities to ensure equitable and socially just learning opportunities.

Carol is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking through conservation lands and open-water paddle boarding off the shores of Cape Cod, where she resides with her family.


Kenneth Texeira, Ph.D.

Education:

Ph.D. in Applied Developmental Psychology, Fordham University
B.S. in Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Dr. Texeira is a professor of psychology and has taught at both our Quincy campus and Plymouth campuses for 15 years. He has received various teaching and mentorship awards and has worked in healthcare settings as a researcher and scientist.

He has published 10 articles in medical journals focused on increasing patient satisfaction and quality of life. He is currently producing a documentary on the Veteran Fishing Team he founded which is a peer-to-peer support group that aims to reduce isolation, raise awareness about mental health and foster blue economy skills.

 


Robert Newell, D.S.W.

Education:
D.S.W., University of Kentucky
M.B.A., Fitchburg State University
M.S.W., Boston University
B.S. in Social Work and Psychology, Roberts Wesleyan College

Dr. Newell has worked as a clinical social worker for more than 25 years working in residential treatment, schools, private practice, and in healthcare and has been employed both as a clinician and in social work management. He has provided all levels of social work care on the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.

Dr. Newell teaches courses in diversity, human behavior, policy, counseling skills, and addictions. He encourages students to think critically about social issues while building on their strengths. Dr. Newell has served as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Kentucky teaching courses in both the undergraduate and graduate social work programs. He also enjoys skiing, hiking, and mountain biking in his free time.

 


Thomas Connolly, Ph.D.

Education:
Ph.D in I/O Psychology, Adler University
M.S. in I/O Psychology, Stevens Institute of Technology
M.B.A. in Finance, New York University
M.A. in Healthcare Administration, University of Phoenix
B.A. in Psychology, University of Connecticut

Dr. Connolly has extensive for-profit experience as a corporate executive, change manager, and entrepreneur. He spent 25 years as a Wall Street executive, focusing on turnarounds and guiding organizations through transformational change. He has served on curricular-advisory boards at Suffolk University and Bunker Hill Community College and on the advisory boards of two successful startups, Patheer and Ignyte AI (where he was co-founder).

As a post-doctoral fellow at Adler University, his work focused on structural barriers to workplace equity, metacognitive decision structures and workplace civility. His prior published research addresses work/family role conflict and managing high-velocity change. Dr. Connolly teaches a range of classroom and online courses including Introductory Psychology, Life-span Developmental Psychology and Research Methods.


Henry Rubin, Ph.D.

Education:

Ph.D. in Sociology, Brandeis University
M.A. in Sociology, Brandeis University
B.A. in Sociology and Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz

Dr. Rubin has been with Quincy College for over 18 years. He has served as the Dean of the college’s Liberal Arts Division, the Chair of the Assessment Committee, and the Co-director of First Year Seminar. Previously, he has taught at Harvard University and Tufts University. His research and teaching specialties include Sociology of the Media, Gender Studies, Interpersonal Communication and Group Dynamics. He has three cats and enjoys cycling, gardening, and the beach.


Fahri Ercem, MA

Education:
M.A. in Sociology, Northeastern University
M.A. in Social Anthropology, Cumhuriyet University, Türkiye
B.A. in Sociology, Middle East Technical University, Türkiye

 

Fahri Ercem is an experienced educator with a strong background in sociology and cultural anthropology, teaching for over 30 years. Currently, Fahri serves as an adjunct faculty member at Bunker Hill Community College and Quincy College. He has taught various sociology and cultural anthropology courses at Northeastern University, Middlesex Community College, and Massasoit Community College. His expertise includes curriculum development and teaching a wide range of sociology courses, focusing on global change, diversity, social inequalities, and world cultures. Additionally, Fahri has worked in the Office for Diversity Inclusion and Community Partnership (DICP) at Harvard Medical School for more than 20 years in various roles. In his free time, he enjoys reading and writing poetry, listening to jazz, and cooking.


Kerry Leary, M.Ed.

Education:
M.S. in Equity, Diversity and Social Justice Leadership, Tuft University
M.Ed. in Education Leadership, American International College
M.A. in Counselor Education, Bridgewater State University
B.A. in Psychology, Bridgewater State University

Kerry has 18 years as a school and crisis counselor, 5 years as a school administrator, and 18 years as an adjunct professor. Additionally, Kerry has spent a combined 6 years as a private mental health professional.

Kerry’s teaching is rooted in the belief that every student has the potential to learn and grow, regardless of their abilities or challenges. Kerry is committed in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment that respects individual differences and fosters a sense of belonging. Kerry’s approach emphasizes the significance of understanding the brain and mental health, utilizing this knowledge to guide students in overcoming obstacles and achieving their full potential.

 


Brian Sasso, MA, LMHC

Education:

M.A. in Counseling Psychology, Remington College
B.S. in Sociology, University Massachusetts Amherst

Brian is an adjunct professor of psychology at Quincy College & has taught there since 2009. In addition, Brian has taught other courses within the school of Liberal Arts; including Human Service & Sociology.

Brian is a full-time employee of Quincy Public Schools and holds a School Adjustment Counseling license & school counseling license through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). These licenses allow him to work within an at-risk student population. Brian is also licensed through Allied Mental Health, as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Brian works as an independent therapist with adults who are experiencing challenges.

 


Becky DelVecchio, Ph.D.

Education:
Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education, UMass Boston
PMC in Research Policy and Practice in Early Childhood Education, UMass Boston
M.Ed in Integrating the Arts into Curriculum, Lesley University
B.S. in Early Childhood Education, University System of New Hampshire

Becky has over 25 years of experience in teaching young children and adults in diverse and dynamic settings. Her current work focuses on supporting pedagogical leadership from within the early childhood education workforce. She also has special interest and expertise in the benefits of, and barriers, to nature play for all children and families.

 


Gayl Crump Swaby. Ed.D.

Education:

Ed.D, Nova Southeastern University
M.S.W., Boston University
B.S.W. in Social Work, Oakwood University

In addition to teaching at Quincy College, Dr. Crump Swaby is a Professor of Practice in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Springfield College. With over three decades of clinical experience in diverse settings such as schools, community centers, and private practices, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her work with a variety of populations has cultivated a deep understanding of mental health challenges, making her an invaluable mentor for aspiring counselors.

At Quincy College, Dr. Swaby has taught courses on substance addiction, gerontology, diversity, and human behavior. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, critical thinking, and practical skill development. A published author of two books focused on culturally responsive mental health treatment, Dr. Swaby is dedicated to preparing culturally competent clinicians.

Beyond her academic and clinical roles, Dr. Swaby enjoys traveling, music, gardening, and spending time with family.

 


Brenda K. Kimball, MA

Education:
M.A. in Counseling, Johnson State College
B.A. in Education/Counseling, Johnson State College
Administrator License (Principal), Lyndon State College

Professor Kimball began teaching as an adjunct faculty member at Quincy College in the fall of 2017.  She has taught classes in both the Psychology and Sociology departments. Brenda began her career in Vermont as a School Counselor, Director of Guidance, and Principal. She is currently a full-time School Adjustment Counselor for Canton Public Schools, where she is also an active member of our school’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She is a member of the American School Counselors Association and the Massachusetts School Counselors Association. She enjoys spending time with her two elementary-aged granddaughters and walking the beach with her dog, Allie.

Minor in Psychology

The minor in Psychology is available to bachelor students in other disciplines and is focused on enhancing the understanding of human behavior. Students will develop versatile skills in communication, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning that employers increasingly value across all professional sectors.

Course TitleCredits
PSY 101: General Psychology3
PSY 215: Abnormal Psychology3
PSY 216: Growth & Development3
PSY 221: Health Psychology3
PSY 330: Social Psychology3
PSY 311: Cognition3
Total Credits Required for Minor 18

Minors are designed to provide baccalaureate students with knowledge and skills in a field other than their majors, that may lead to a post-graduation competitive advantage. Bachelor’s students who have earned a minimum of 45 credits and have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher are eligible. The Request for Minor Form must be completed and submitted to the Registrar. To be able to complete your minor within 120 credits (minimum credits required for a major), students are strongly recommended to meet with an Academic Advisor for course planning prior to declaring a minor.

The minimum number of credits for a minor is 18. A maximum of two courses required for the major (including the general education) can be used toward a minor, and open electives may be used to satisfy the remaining of the minor requirements.

Successful completion of a minor requires a grade of C or higher in all courses of that minor. A minor must be completed at the time of the bachelor’s degree and will be so noted on the student’s transcript. A student cannot be readmitted to complete only a minor.

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