# PSY 511 Professional Ethics and the Law Online Course

## PSY 511 Professional Ethics and the Law

**3 Semester Units**

*Professional Ethics and the Law* explores the legal and ethical guidelines and expectations that must be adhered to in the professional counseling setting. Central issues in legal and ethical counseling practices—particularly unethical behaviors that harm or has the potential to harm clients—are presented and diverse scenarios are examined. The counselor-client relationship, personal values, and responsibilities are analyzed and considerations involved in adapting counseling practices are explored.

**Course Objectives**

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

- Define morals, values, and ethics and examine the origins of law related to the field of psychology.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the different theories of ethics, and examine the importance of cultural competence related to ethical practice.
- Examine the major legal and ethical challenges facing the counseling profession today.
- Analyze the differences among legal standards, ethical standards, and best practice in the counseling profession.
- Demonstrate proficiency with academic writing related to professional ethics and the law.

### If you are interested in taking this course, please explore a degree or certificate program below:

[> Explore Psychology Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/psychology/)

## CCU Online Courses FAQ

##### 1. Can I take a single course?

No. At this time, students may only enroll in a [certificate](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) or [degree](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) program and cannot enroll into a single course. We urge you to [Explore All Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) to find a certificate or degree program best suited to your needs.

##### 2. How long is each course?

All of our programs are self-paced. This means you can complete your coursework as quickly or as slowly as your schedule permits as long as you complete one course every six months to remain an active student in good standing.

##### 3. How is the course structured?

This course is structured into four units and a final exam. Each unit has a required essay and an open book multiple-choice exam.

##### 4. Do I need a textbook for this course?

Yes. Every course in the educational programs offered at California Coast University requires an assigned textbook. To assist students in managing the high costs of textbooks, CCU offers a [rental library](https://www.calcoast.edu/alumni-association-rental-library.html) for all required texts.  
Students can also obtain textbooks in their local areas or through online sources if they do not wish to utilize the University's rental library. There are many resources on the web for renting, purchasing, and selling textbooks. If you would like to purchase your textbooks, or are interested in exploring other delivery methods (digital or pdf versions), we have compiled a handy [Textbook Resource Page](https://www.calcoast.edu/textbook-resources.html) for students who wish to explore other options.

##### 5. Is this an accredited college course?

Yes. California Coast University is accredited by the [Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)](http://www.deac.org/). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency.

##### 6. What should I do if I want more information about this course?

Please [contact us](https://www.calcoast.edu/contact-us.html). You can also download a [CCU Brochure](https://www.calcoast.edu/ccu-bulletin.html) or complete a [Request For Information Form Online](https://www.calcoast.edu/request-for-information-landing.html).