PSYC 123 - The Psychology of Getting Hired

Simply having a college degree is not enough – if you want to be competitive in the professional world you need to devote as much time and effort in developing your professional credentials and materials as you do to your coursework.  Together we will explore psychological principles that influence the selection process and how you can apply them for the edge that makes your competition Fear the Turtle!

This one-credit, online course was developed by the Department of Psychology and the University Career Center & The President's Promise to provide you with a flexible, dynamic and hands-on experience.

Learning Objectives - Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

• Describe the scientific methods by which scholars conduct research on career trends.
• Explain the crucial research findings that inform our approach to evaluating ourselves and to creating favorable impressions in other people.
• Apply psychological theories to explain how materials and networks influence professional outcomes
• Detail the role that cultural competence and emotional intelligence play in selection and performance.
• Identify specific, research-based recommendations for interview performance.
• Summarize research-based negotiation strategies for compensation packages.

Practical Outcomes - Students who successfully complete this course will have:

• Identified strengths, interest and professional development goals.
• Learned how to use the Careers4Terps site to locate internships and professional positions.
• Developed high-quality professional materials (e.g., cover letters, resumes, online portfolios).
• Established an effective professional social media presence and network with UMD alumni.
• Practiced and refined crucial interview skills.

For a copy of the current syllabus visit http://ter.ps/PSYC123sylb

For information on course availability and enrollment visit www.testudo.umd.edu