Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 Academic Catalogue 
    
2016-2017 Academic Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses of Instruction


Course Numbering System. Each subject is identified by a symbol made up of two parts. The first part is an abbreviation denoting the general field of study. The second part is a number denoting the particular subject. The first digit indicates the year in which the course is usually taken and, therefore, the level of instruction.

Credit. The unit of academic credit used at the Virginia Military Institute is the semester hour. In general a semester hour represents one hour of classroom work (lecture or recitation) or one period (two or three hours) of laboratory or supervised research or field work per week during a single semester. Thus a course that meets for three class hours and one laboratory period each week during one semester usually carries credit for four semester hours.

In the following course descriptions the figures on the title lines indicate, in order, the class hours per week, the laboratory or field work hours per week, and the semester hours credit. For example, the figures “3—2—4” mean that the class meets three times a week for one-hour classroom sessions and has two hours of laboratory, supervised research, or field work each week, and that the course carries four semester hours of credit.

 

NAVAL SCIENCE

Department of Naval Science
Department Head: Colonel Coggins

Curriculum is delivered in accordance with applicable service regulation and instruction. All Navy option scholarship candidates must complete a full year of calculus, calculus-based physics, English, and American military history/national security policy courses. Additionally, all Navy option candidates are required to take a course which covers the culture of another country or group of people. All Marine option scholarship candidates must complete an American military history/national security policy course. Substitutions, exceptions, and waivers of these requirements can be authorized only by the Professor of Naval Science.

  
  • NS 318 - Naval Lab for NS 308


    Credit Hours: 0

    Navy-option. The purpose of this lab is to reinforce topics covered in Naval Engineering as well as providing instruction that will prepare midshipmen for their first class summer cruise. The course will also address the surface, submarine, aviation, and special warfare communities to help prepare midshipmen for service assignment. Corequisite(s): NS 308  for commissioning cadets, or LS 350  for non-commissioning.
  
  • NS 402 - Leadership and Ethics


    Credit Hours: 2

    Navy and Marine-option (Seniors). A seminar that prepares future leaders by exploring and applying a diverse range of leadership and ethical tools to enhance objective, sound, and timely decision-making in the most challenging environments. This course emphasizes the importance of leadership that adheres to the highest standards of character and integrity.  It is a “Leadership Seminar” where fundamentals and applications of leadership and ethics will be discussed. Note: This is the capstone course within the NROTC academic curriculum. Corequisite(s): NS 412  for Navy commissioning cadets, NS 414  for Marine commissioning cadets, or LS 451  for non-commissioning cadets.
  
  • NS 403 - Evolution of Warfare II


    Credit Hours: 2

    Marine-option. This is a continuation of the study of the art and concepts of warfare examined in Evolution of Warfare I. Evolution of Warfare II explores the changes in the theory and nature of war from the 2nd Industrial Revolution through contemporary warfare, as well as the potential future of warfare. Future Marine officers will examine the interrelations of political, strategic, operational, tactical, and technical aspects of war from the past, while bringing into focus the application of these same principles and concepts to the battlefields of today and the future. Corequisite(s): NS 413  for commissioning cadets, or LS 450  for non-commissioning.
  
  • NS 408 - Naval Operations and Seamanship


    Credit Hours: 2

    Navy-option. Relative motion vector analysis theory, formation tactics, and ship employment; practical skills in relative motion problems. Controllable and non-controllable forces in ship handling, ship behavior, and maneuvering characteristics; various methods of visual communication, including flag hoist, flashing light, and semaphore. Corequisite(s): NS 411  for commissioning cadets, or LS 450  for non-commissioning.
  
  • NS 411 - Navy Lab for NS 408


    Credit Hours: 0

    Navy-option. This lab is designed to reinforce what the student will learn in NS 408  to include practical communications exercises, maneuvering board problems and review plotting techniques learned in NS 205 . Corequisite(s): NS 408 .
  
  • NS 412 - Navy Lab for NS 402


    Credit Hours: 0

    Navy-option. A continuation of  , this lab is designed to reinforce the basic skills, organizational knowledge and command techniques that prospective ensigns will employ in the Naval Operating Forces. The class ties together the leadership application for Naval officers with regard to counseling, financial planning, deployments and career management for surface, sub-surface, aviation and special warfare officers. Corequisite(s): NS 402 .
  
  • NS 413 - Marine Lab for NS 403


    Credit Hours: 0

    Marine-option. This lab is designed to reinforce the basic skills, organizational knowledge and command techniques that prospective second lieutenants will employ in the Fleet Marine Force (FMF). The course will address such basic skills as leading Marines, professional development, counseling and performance evaluation, training, operational risk management and basic officer administration. Corequisite(s): NS 403 .
  
  • NS 414 - Marine Lab for NS 402


    Credit Hours: 0

    Marine-option. This lab is designed to reinforce the basic skills, organizational knowledge and command techniques that prospective second lieutenants will employ in the Fleet Marine Force (FMF). The course will address such topics as USMC and sister service mission and capabilities, operations and tactics, tactical decision making, and commissioning preparation. Corequisite(s): NS 402 .

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Department of Physical Education
Department Head: Colonel Coale

Classes prior to 2016:

All cadets are required to take seven consecutive semesters of physical education classes and earn four semester credit hours (exclusive of any 3 credit hour course), to meet graduation requirements. New cadets do not take a physical education class first semester of their rat year. Second semester of their rat year, and first semester of the third class year, cadets will take either Swimming (PE 100 or 101), or Boxing (PE 102). Second semester of the third class year, and first semester of the second class year, cadets will take either Drug and Alcohol (PE 200), or Wrestling (PE 211). Second semester of the second class year, and first semester of the first class year, cadets will take either Principles of Physical Conditioning (PE 300), or a PE elective course. Second semester of the first class year cadets will take a PE elective course.

Class of 2016 and beyond:

All cadets are required to take seven semesters of physical education classes, and earn four semester credit hours (exclusive of any 3 credit hour course) to meet graduation requirements. New cadets are required to take Wellness Concepts (PE 105), and Boxing PE 102 during their fourth-class year. Third-class year cadets are required to take Swimming (PE 100 or 101), and Principles of Physical Education (PE 300). Cadets will take two PE Elective courses during their second-class year. Cadets will also take a PE elective during the first semester of their first-class year to complete their Physical Education requirements. There is no PE requirement (OPEN semester), for the second semester of the first-class year. To accommodate special circumstances that may arise, such as study abroad and medical/health issues, the OPEN semester may occur during the fall/spring of the second-class year, or the fall of the first class year.

 

  
  • PE 100 - Beginning Swimming


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course is for non-swimmers only.
  
  • PE 101 - Basic Swimming and Survival


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Stressed are the basic strokes, survival support, breath control skills, and pre-lifesaving skills.
  
  • PE 102 - Boxing


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Instruction in the fundamentals of boxing.
  
  • PE 105 - Wellness Concepts


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course will provide an introduction to basic nutrition and dimensions of wellness. Major topics will include, choosing a nutritious diet, maintaining healthy body composition and body weight, managing stress, avoiding risks from harmful habits, and sexual health.
  
  • PE 190 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    This course is for rising third classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required.
  
  • PE 200 - Drug and Alcohol Abuse Awareness


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    A review of the current understanding of the short-term and long-term effects of the chronic use of drugs and alcohol. Confrontation and intervention techniques will be taught. Current laws will be reviewed.
  
  • PE 211 - Wrestling


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Fundamentals of wrestling.
  
  • PE 290 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    This course is for rising second classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required.

     

  
  • PE 300 - Principles of Physical Conditioning


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 1

    An elementary course in exercise physiology.
  
  • PE 303 - Karate


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course is designed to be a basic karate course. Cadets will be taught defense against either violent or minor attacks from various situations. The cadets will learn a range of self-defense techniques involving: holds, escapes, and locks. Observation and awareness skills of one’s surrounding will also be taught to avoid and prevent trouble or problems before they develop. Safety in training will be strictly emphasized during class.
  
  • PE 306 - Nutrition and Cardiovascular Health


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course will examine the anatomy and function of the cardiovascular system as well as the influence of diet and exercise on the body. Emphasis will be on long-term healthy lifestyle management for prevention of cardiovascular disease. Students will also learn to development nutrition and exercise plans for various cardiovascular health conditions.
  
  • PE 315 - Combatives


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    The purpose of this course is to teach cadets basic grappling techniques in accordance with the United States Army’s Level One combative program.
  
  • PE 321 - Leadership Exercise and Sport


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course will provide the student with an introduction to leadership theories and practices, exercise physology and physical training. Basic concepts and components of leadership within the exercise and sporting environment will be introduced so that the student may use this knowledge for the promotion of his/her personal fitness benefits.
  
  • PE 322 - Leadership in Adventue Programming


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Leadership in Adventure Programming is designed to develop cadets’ leadership skills in the outdoor adventure setting.   Cadets will be exposed to outdoor leadership theories, and learn how to apply them in a practical setting.   An examination of basic learning styles, with an emphasis on how to adapt leadership styles in order to facilitate group success will be covered.   Topics include: Functions of Outdoor Leadership, Conditional Outdoor Leadership Theory (COLT), Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle, Program Planning, Sequencing, Facilitation and Debriefing Skills, Group Formation Theory and Risk Management.
  
  • PE 323 - Cadet Peer Health/Wellness Education


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    An examination of the theory and practice of peer health/wellness education and peer support and approaches to each in higher education.  Course will equip cadets to deliver peer health/wellness education and peer support to the Corps of Cadets.  Course will serve as a prerequisite for Cadet Peer Educator (CPE) membership which is a service group supervised by the VMI Center for Cadet Counseling.
  
  • PE 324 - Exercise Physiology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 4

    This course will examine how the body responds and adapts to exercise. It will focus on a study of the metabolic, muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory changes associated with both aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Emphasis will be placed on the application of our physiologic understanding of exercise to developing training programs and improving performance. The laboratory component will introduce students to state of art equipment used to assess different components of fitness. Data collection and analysis will be emphasized. Prerequisite(s): BI 101  & BI 102  or permission of instructor.
  
  • PE 325 - Understanding Sports Injuries


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    The purpose of this course is to provide an overview in the preventing, recognition, and treatment common sports injuries that occur within the active population. Course content will include anatomical terminology, and mechanisms of injuries.
  
  • PE 340 - Teaching Mentorship in Physical Education


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    Students with at least a 3.0 GPA in their major and who earn an A or a B in a Physical Education course, or by approval of the Department Head, may serve as a teaching assistant for a portion of a Physical Education course in a subsequent semester. The teaching mentee’s duties may vary, but a mentee must meet with his/her mentoring professor weekly and attend all class meetings of the course. Student duties will be determined by the course professor and approved by the Department Head. Duties will include: meeting with the professor each week to discuss teaching strategies and assisting the professor by helping prepare classrooms, equipment, quizzes and/or practicals, and assisting with teaching in the course. This is a pass/fail course. It may only be taken once and it can count as an exercise science elective. Registration for this course requires Department Head approval.
  
  • PE 380 - Kinesiology and Functional Anatomy


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course is designed to provide the cadet with a comprehension of human movement. Subject matter includes musculoskeletal anatomy, joint structure and function, and biomechanics. The cadet is prepared to identify the various phases of motion and explain the mechanical significance of each in producing the desired outcome.
  
  • PE 390 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    This course is for rising first classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required.
  
  • PE 401 - Golf


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    A beginning course. When Offered: Offered during fall semester only.
  
  • PE 402 - Lifeguarding


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Successful completion leads to certification as a lifeguard. Prerequisite(s): PE 404 
  
  • PE 403 - Advanced Swimming and Survival


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    The course is designed for advance swimming and survival techniques. The course will cover strokes, conditioning, surface diving, snorkel introduction, underwater retrieval of gear, and advance survival techniques. Prerequisite(s): PE 101 .
  
  • PE 404 - C.P.R.


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Successful completion confers American Red Cross certification. This course is a prerequisite for PE 103, Lifeguarding.
  
  • PE 405 - Dietary Supplements


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Provides information on the benefits and detriments of common physical performance stimulants.
  
  • PE 406 - Handball/Racquetball


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    A beginning course.
  
  • PE 407 - Volleyball


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    A beginning course.
  
  • PE 409 - Tennis


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    A beginning course. When Offered: Offered during fall semester only.
  
  • PE 411 - Fundamentals of Resistance Training


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Fundamentals of weight lifting.
  
  • PE 412 - Weight Training


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This will be an activity course designed to give cadets “hands-on” exposure to various types of resistive training programs. Cadets will actively participate in a variety of predetermined functional lifting programs relative to all of the components (strength, power, endurance) of muscular development.
  
  • PE 413 - Cardiovascular Training Application


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This is an activity course designed to expose cadets to various types of training programs. A cross-training approach will be utilized requiring cadet participation on a weekly basis with regard to a variety of aerobic and anaerobic training adaptations. This course is designed to be physically demanding. It will not only help cadets attain a higher level of fitness, it will also give them an opportunity to learn different training adaptations which they can utilize beyond their VMI experience.
  
  • PE 414 - Basketball


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course will introduce cadets to the basic rules and skills of basketball as well as teach offensive and defensive principles. Individual skills and team concepts will be covered. This course will have a high activity/fitness component.
  
  • PE 430 - Health Education


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Topics to be studied include: recognition and management of stress, intervention and confrontation in drug/alcohol abuse, sexuality, AIDS, and other sexually-transmitted diseases, and other subjects such as nutrition, genetic counseling, cardiovascular health, and cancer.

    (NOTE:  Cadets are required to take 7 semesters of PE for a total of 4 credits – PE 430 does not count towards this requirement.)

  
  • PE 431 - Physical Activity and Wellness Through the Lifespan


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course presents an overview of the benefits of lifespan physical activity and structured exercise programs for adults. Students will examine the changes that occur during exercise as it influences persons of all ages, including individuals with special medical considerations.  The cadets will learn to develop exercise and fitness programs specifically for adults based upon age, medical conditions, and special needs.  Cadets focus on the psychosocial factors related to participants and their motivated behaviors, including adoption, adherence, and compliance, in physical activity and exercise.

    (NOTE:  Cadets are required to take 7 semesters of PE for a total of 4 credits – PE 431 does not count towards this requirement.)

  
  • PE 432 - Concepts of Strength Training and Conditioning


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course provides principles and theories related to strength training and conditioning.  Concepts and applications in exercise testing and evaluation; program design, implementation, and evaluation; facility planning and administration, as well as safety procedures are discussed.

    (NOTE:  Cadets are required to take 7 semesters of PE for a total of 4 credits – PE 432 does not count towards this requirement.)


PSYCHOLOGY

Department of Psychology
Department Head: Colonel Gire

Requirements for a major in psychology are specified in Psychology .

Note: A grade of C or higher is required in PS 201  for all upper level PS courses starting with the Class of 2014.

  
  • PS LAB - PS Lab


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 1

    Psychology Lab
  
  • PS 201 - Introduction to Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Principles of human and animal behavior including brain function, motivation, learning, thinking, perception, emotions, personality, attitudes, and aptitudes. This course is a prerequisite for all other courses in psychology.
  
  • PS 202 - Introduction to Research Methods


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Provides the foundation for understanding, interpreting, and designing psychological research. Topics include developing a research question, types of variables and how they are measured, participant selection techniques, nonexperimental and experimental research methods, ethics in psychology, and the communication of scientific research in a standard format. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C.
  
  • PS 205 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course builds upon research methodology developed in PS202 and briefly reviews critical concepts from MA106. Additionally, students will learn statistical techniques for analyzing both categorical and continuous data. Topics include analysis of variance, covariate analyses, chi-square tests, nonparametric tests, and reliability analyses. Students will be immersed in hands-on SPSS lab work throughout. Coursework culminates with a final project that is based on a publicly sourced dataset provided by the instructor. Students will design their own research question, create hypotheses, and test those hypotheses using analytical techniques learned in the course Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 .
  
  • PS 290 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4
    Credit Hours: 2

    These courses are for third classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 291 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for third classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 292 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4
    Credit Hours: 2

    These courses are for rising second classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 293 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 8
    Credit Hours: 4

    These courses are for rising second classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 301 - Psychology of Learning


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    The empirical and theoretical examination of learning and memory. Topics covered include conditioning, discrimination, short-term and long-term retention. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 302 - Social Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Behavior and experiences of the individual in society, group dynamics and social institutions, human relations, morale and leadership. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 304 - Educational Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Emphasis is upon learning and instruction by cadets and teacher. Educational theories and their practice are explored through tutoring in the local schools and colleges. Useful whether or not the cadet plans a teaching career. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 305 - Abnormal Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introductory course on the scientific study and treatment of deviant human behavior. This course will briefly trace the history of treatment of psychological disorder from the middle ages to the present, extensively describe important determinants of personality, causes of abnormal behavior (psychogenic and organic), describe major personality theories and methods of therapy. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 307 - Developmental Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A survey of human growth and development, this course presents a life-span approach to the important, modern forces which have the greatest impact on the life changes of the individual. Opportunities to apply textbook theories and principles will be provided throughout the semester. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PS 308 - Motivation


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Motivation is a theoretical concept that accounts for those factors that influence the arousal of behavior, the direction of behavior, and the persistence of behavior. PS 308 is about the motivational determinants of behavior in organizations. It deals extensively with motivation theory, research, and practice, including such topics as how job design, leadership style, and pay systems affect work motivation and job satisfaction. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 309 - Fundamentals of Biopsychology (formerly PS 203 - Biopsychology I)


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to the study of the biological bases of behavior, with emphases on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, biopsychological research methods, and sensory and motor systems. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C.
  
  • PS 313 - Forensic Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Criminal behavior is studied from the psychological perspective. The criminal offender is portrayed as being embedded in and continually influenced by multiple systems within the psychosocial environment. Topics include: biological and learning factors of criminal behavior, juvenile delinquency, the psychopath, the mentally disordered offender, aggression and violence, homicide, sexual offenses, economic crime, drugs, and more. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  & PS 305  with a minimum grade of C.
  
  • PS 314 - Physiology and Behavior (formerly PS 204 - Biopsychology II)


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An in-depth discussion of the physiological mechanisms underlying behavior. Topics include brain damage and neuroplasticity, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C.
  
  • PS 315 - Theories of Personality


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A study of the structure of personality and the dimensions along which individuals differ. The contributions of major personality theorists and the implications of current research are considered for trait, biological, psychoanalytical, behavioristic, cognitive, humanistic, and cross-cultural approaches. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 316 - Psychology Internship


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 4
    Credit Hours: 3

    Cadets serve as interns in various psychology-related external agencies under the supervision of a member of the PS faculty in cooperation with officials of the external agency. Coursework will involve selected readings, completion of an appropriate project designed in conjunction with agency staff, and a final report presented orally and in writing to supervising faculty. The report will follow American Psychological Association format. This course may be repeated once for a total of 6 semester credits. Cadets must enroll in this course at VMI before they can be allowed to proceed with the internship. Open to rising first classmen and second-class PS majors. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher is required.
  
  • PS 317 - Sports Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course examines the way people think, feel, and behave during sport and exercise activities and the practical application of that knowledge. The specific course objectives are to: a) increase understanding of how psychological factors influence performance in sports, b) help acquire skills and knowledge about sport psychology that one can apply as an athlete, a sports team leader, or a coach, and c) provide keys to optimal experiences and performances in sport, and gain skills that help more consistently experience “flow,” being in the zone,” or “feeling on a high” in sports. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PS 318 - Introduction to Counseling and Psychotherapy


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An overview of the major concepts of contemporary therapeutic systems and an introduction to the elements of effective counseling and psychotherapy. Empirical evaluation of treatment outcomes is emphasized. Research, legal, and ethical issues are examined. Students will learn basic counseling and communication skills through lecture, demonstration, and experiential exercises. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PS 319 - Creative and Critical Thinking


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This elective is designed to (1) examine the theories, research, competencies, and processes associated with creative and critical thinking and (2) enhance the student’s proficiency in innovative, disciplined and discerning thinking. The course will explore the cognitive skills that allow one to deal with issues, problems, and challenging situations requiring creative solutions and/or critical analysis. Course topics include metacognition, cognitive style, the creative problem-solving process, creative climate, being a fair-minded thinker, the elements of critical thinking, irrational thinking, and recognizing propaganda and fallacies. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PS 320 - Positive Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course will provide an introduction to key concepts in the area of Positive Psychology. Major topics will include happiness, flow, optimism, forgiveness, goal setting and mindfulness. Class discussions will include a mix of theoretical perspectives, examinations of empirical studies and methods for applying key findings to one’s own life. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 321 - Stress and Health


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This seminar-style course provides an overview of physiological stress-response systems and an in-depth analysis of topics pertaining to the relationship between stress and health/ illness. Major topics include: theories of stress, physiological response patterning in stress and emotion, psychological states and traits moderating the stress-illness relationship, cardiovascular stress-reactivity, social psychophysiology, coronary-prone behavior, and psychoneuroimmunology. Theoretical perspectives and empirical studies are examined and course content is organized around a reading list. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 
  
  • PS 322 - Psychological Assessment


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Students will learn to administer, score, and interpret a standard psychological test battery. Tests include structured clinical interviews, self-report questionnaires, and performance-based tests. Each student will present life history and testing data obtained from a volunteer subject, and offer empirical and theory-based interpretations of test findings. Each psychological assessment constitutes a comprehensive, in-depth case study of a single subject that will illustrate critical concepts in personality science, psychometrics, and psychopathology. Test construction, test theory, ethics, critical thinking, and therapeutic assessment practices will be explored. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  or instructor approval
  
  • PS 344 - Leadership in Organizations


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    The focus is on the interaction between leaders, followers, and the situational context of the leadership process. Students study the leader’s direct influence on individual motivation and group processes through the application of leadership theories, skills, and attributes. They also learn how to influence subordinates indirectly through organizational systems, procedures, culture, and ethical climate. The design of the course includes self-assessment, self-disclosure, small group exercises in contrived situations, and analysis of case studies.
  
  • PS 351 - Biological Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to biological psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 309  or PS 314 .
  
  • PS 352 - Health Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to health psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 321 .
  
  • PS 353 - Psychology of Learning Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to the psychology of learning. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201   with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 301 .
  
  • PS 354 - Social Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to social psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201   with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 302 .
  
  • PS 355 - Abnormal Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to abnormal psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 .  Corequisite(s): PS 305 .
  
  • PS 356 - Developmental Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to developmental psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 307 .
  
  • PS 357 - Personality Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to personality psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 315 .
  
  • PS 358 - Positive Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to positive psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 320 .
  
  • PS 390 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for second classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 391 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for second classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 392 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for rising first classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 393 - Independent Research


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for rising first classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 401 - Psychology of Cognition


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introductory course on human cognition. Topics include perception, attention, memory, visual knowledge, decision-making, problem solving, language, and consciousness. Emphasis will be placed on examining different approaches for studying and defining cognition, as well as the contributions that neuroscientific research has made to the field. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  
  • PS 402W - Advanced Research Methods (formerly Research Methods in Psychology)


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A course covering the principal areas of general and experimental psychology. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C. Writing Intensive (W).
  
  • PS 403W - Independent Project


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A continuation of PS 402W. Prerequisite(s): PS 402W. Writing Intensive (W).
  
  • PS 404 - History and Systems in Psychology


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course is designed for psychology majors and is a requirement for graduation. It provides an in depth review of historical events and figures leading to the emergence of the science of psychology and the development of major psychological theories. The philosophical and scientific origins of psychology as a science are analyzed as well as the impact of emerging movements on important psychologists. The focus of much of the reading is the history of psychology as reflected by the individuals, theories, and experimental investigations of this discipline. Rather than focus on broad philosophical and historical issues, the course is aimed at specific emerging philosophical trends that lead to the development of the discipline. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 
  
  • PS 451 - Cognitive Psychology Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to cognitive psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 401 .
  
  • PS 452 - History and Systems Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to popular psychological myths and the classic studies that changed psychology. The lab emphasizes replication, scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 404 .
  
  • PS 491 - Supervised Research I


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    Normally a two-semester sequence for first class psychology majors who intend to pursue graduate studies. Each cadet will design and conduct an experiment under faculty supervision. Final presentation will include a paper in American Psychological Association format. Prerequisite(s): PS 201. Permission of the department head.
  
  • PS 492 - Supervised Research II


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 103

    Normally a two-semester sequence for first class psychology majors who intend to pursue graduate studies. Each cadet will design and conduct an experiment under faculty supervision. Final presentation will include a paper in American Psychological Association format. Prerequisite(s): PS 201. Permission of the department head.
  
  • PS 495W - Independent Project in Leadership Studies


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Each student works under the close supervision of a faculty member on an independent problem related to leadership studies. Requires research and writing of substantial paper(s) and an oral examination in defense of the project. Note: PS 495 is a required course for the minor in Leadership Studies Prerequisite(s): PS 201, PS 344 and permission of the department head. Writing intensive (W).

PHYSICS

Department of Physics and Astronomy
Department Head: Colonel Hodges

Requirements for a major in physics are specified in Physics and Astronomy .

  
  • PY 115 - Laboratory for PY 120


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 120. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Corequisite(s): PY 120 
  
  • PY 116 - Laboratory for PY 121


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 121 . Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Corequisite(s): PY 121 
  
  • PY 120 - General Physics I


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Designed as an Algebra based terminal course in physics, this sequence is a survey of the concepts and theories of classical and modern physical science. (This course does not satisfy the core curriculum science requirement.) Corequisite(s): PY 115 
  
  • PY 121 - General Physics II


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Designed as an Algebra based terminal course in physics, this sequence is a survey of the concepts and theories of classical and modern physical science. (This course does not satisfy the core curriculum science requirement.) Prerequisite(s): PY 120  Corequisite(s): PY 116 
  
  • PY 155 - General Physics Laboratory I


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 120 or PY 160. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Corequisite(s): PY 120  or PY 160 .
  
  • PY 156 - General Physics Laboratory II


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 121 or PY 161. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Corequisite(s): PY 121  or PY 161 .
  
  • PY 160 - General Physics I


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This calculus-based sequence constitutes a general course in physics covering the topics of mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and sound, electricity and magnetism and optics. This sequence is for physics, chemistry, applied mathematics, and engineering majors. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Corequisite(s): MA 123 
  
  • PY 161 - General Physics II


    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This calculus-based sequence constitutes a general course in physics covering the topics of mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and sound, electricity and magnetism and optics. This sequence is for physics, chemistry, applied mathematics, and engineering majors. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Prerequisite(s): PY 160  Corequisite(s): PY 156 
  
  • PY 223 - Programming and Data Analysis


    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 2

    An introduction to some of the techniques and tools used by practicing physicists. Includes an introduction to MATLAB programming with emphasis on programming fundamentals, standard input/output techniques, and data handling. Students learn how to use the Mathcad software program to do numerical analysis as well as symbolic calculations. Data and error analysis beyond the fundamentals is introduced and includes such topics as regression analysis, weighted averages, error propagation, and data analysis.
  
  • PY 253W - Optics Laboratory


    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course in which some of the experiments in classical optics, as well as some in the field of laser optics will be performed. Prerequisite(s): PY 161. Corequisite(s): PY 254. Writing Intensive (W).
 

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