Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - PSYC 308 D100

History and Systems of Modern Psychology (3)

Class Number: 3237

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines the development of modern psychology from the founding of the first laboratories in the late 19th century to the present. The development and revisions of the major theoretical systems of psychology are examined from a comparative and critical perspective. Students with credit for PSYC 207 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines the study of the mind from ancient Greece to the 21st century, with a focus on the last two-hundred years. Throughout our journey, we will consider how culture, race, ethnicity, and gender have contributed to and perhaps even shaped the history of psychology. Students will be encouraged to reflect on what the future of psychology might look like by applying unique lenses to the material and situating it in a greater historical and societal context.

Grading

  • Quiz 1: 15%
  • Quiz 2: 15%
  • Quiz 3: 15%
  • Quiz 4: 15%
  • Writing Assignments: 20%
  • Term Paper/Project: 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Pickren, W. E., & Rutherford, A. (2010). A history of modern psychology in context. Wiley

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.