PSY-500 New Student Orientation (NSO)

4 semester credits

Part 1: Through Zoom meetings and synchronous and asynchronous work, this month-long course provides incoming doctoral students with an overview of their course of graduate study while orienting them to Fielding’s online environment and the expectations and standards for PhD level study including critical thinking and writing skills. During the course students register for their first term of study and complete a series of written assignments.

Part 2: This 5-day in person course provides students who successfully complete the NSO-Online with a growing understanding of their course of graduate study and standards/expectation for successful PhD level work. While continuing to assess critical thinking and writing skills, this segment of NSO focuses primarily on the students’ suitability for the profession which includes demonstration of entry level foundational competencies, ethical attitudes, attentiveness to cultural diversity, self-awareness, and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Delivery Method: In person/Blended
Grading Default: Credit/No Credit Only
Learning Outcome(s):  

Part 1: Students completing this course will be expected to:  

1. Successfully use Moodle, myFielding, and online library with ease
2. Effectively utilize APA style
3. Clearly summarize and critique journal articles
4. Be timely and open to and benefit from feedback

Part 2: Students completing this course will be expected to meet the following:  

1. Describe the academic, clinical, and research components of the program
2. Clearly summarize and critique journal articles and then argue an issue from opposing perspectives
3. Be open to and benefit from feedback
4. Demonstrate capacity for ethical judgement
5. Demonstrate professional values and attitudes (i.e., honesty, accountability, empathy, beginning identification as a psychologist).
6. Demonstrate awareness of individual differences and acceptance of difference broadly defined to include culture, race, privilege, age, gender, disability, etc.
7. Work collaboratively and effectively with individuals and groups
8. Evidence self-awareness/reflection and self-care