MPO 511 Psychopharmacology
This course is designed for graduate students in Medical & Clinical Psychology to provide a foundation in the principles of basic and clinical psychopharmacology. The course addresses history of psychopharmacology; reviews relevant anatomy, physiology, and chemistry; covers principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics; and discusses psychopharmacology relevant to depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, thought and cognitive disorders, pain, and recreational drug use. In addition to this broad foundation, students will explore selected topics in depth relevant to their particular interests relating psychology and pharmacology. Also, students will be introduced to the possibility of further study to obtain prescription privileges as part of the practice of psychology and psychopharmacology. During the course we will mostly use a lecture-format and will include time for questions and answers. Students are expected to read material in advance to enhance learning, to come to class with any questions, and to be prepared to engage in informed discussions. There will be three exams throughout the quarter. Each examination will cover the material for the preceding 3-4 weeks and will be non-cumulative.