Course Descriptions
Click a bookmark:
Geography History Philosophy Political Science Social Science Sociology Social Work
Geography
GEOG 201 The World Geography I Credit 3
This class focuses on the imprint of cultural traits, such as religion, language and livelihood systems, on the earth’s landscape. The transformation of the earth’s surface as a result of cultural diversity, settlement patterns, political organization, cultural evolution, and population growth are the major topic
GEOG 202 The World Geography II Credit 3
This course is an introduction to the geographic characteristics of the development problems and prospects of developing countries. The focuses are spatial distribution of poverty, employment, migration and urban growth, agricultural productivity, rural development, policies and international trade. Portraits of selected developing countries are presented.
History
HIST 101 History of World Civilization I/Honors Credit 3
The course surveys world history from the Reformation to contemporary times. Emphasis is given to the growth of strong nation states, revolutions, liberalism, nationalism and imperialism, and current problems resulting from two global wars and the end of the cold war.
HIST 102 History of World Civilization II/Honors Credit 3
This course is a continuation of HIST 101 from the Reformation to contemporary times. It examines major political and socio-economic achievements, stressing non-western and Greek, Roman, and Medieval contributions to world civilization.
HIST 150 History of Philosophy Credit 3
This is an introductory course in the study of Western philosophy. It uses the prism of history to develop an overview of the seminal philosophers over the past 2500 years. Philosophical study will include the Greek and medieval periods, the post-renaissance and enlightenment periods along with the Modern and late Twentieth Century periods. Meets CA I requirements.
HIST 200A Introduction to Modern African History Credit 3
This course is an outline of contemporary African History after 1700. The course will include colonialism the struggle for independence, and the problems of economic and social development in independent Africa.
HIST 201 History of American Civilization I Credit 3
This course is a survey of American history from the pre-colonial period to the Civil War. The topics covered are the colonization of America, the institution of slavery, the American Revolution, the foundations of American government, and the roots of the Civil War.
HIST 202 History of American Civilization II Credit 3
This course is a continuation of HIST 201 and a survey of basic post -Civil War problems, movements, and trends, including Reconstruction, industrialization, the Great Depression, two world wars, the civil rights movement, and the cold war.
HIST 221 Historical Research Credit 3
Techniques and procedures in historical research are critically reviewed. The course provides an examination of the methods and functions of research in historical scholarship and requires preparation of an undergraduate history research paper. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST course and HIST Major only.
HIST 275 Swahili: History, People, Language Credit 3
This course approaches learning about history and culture of East Africa through learning the Swahili language. Prerequisite: One 100/200 level history course.
HIST 313 Gender Equality in American/Online Credit 3
Women have played an integral role in the development of America. This course will examine the roles and contributions that American women have made beginning with the Colonial period up to the Twenty-First Century. Gender and ethnic differences will be examined within a cultural, political and social context.
HIST 333 African American History I Credit 3
This course surveys African American History from African roots to the Civil War. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST course.
HIST 334 African American History II From 1865 to Present Times Credit 3
This is a study of African-American History from the civil war to the Twentieth Century. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST course.
HIST 350 Contemporary World Issues Credit 3
This will be a discussion-based course prefaced on student presentations in class. Most of the world’s developing/developed nations offer an English language newspaper on the World Wide Web which delivers official government positions/spin on issues of interest to American students. These newspapers will form the curriculum for the course as will rejoinders by the “national’ newspapers of the United States, i.e., The New York Times and The Washington Post. The course instructor will moderate class discussions.
HIST 351 Latin America Credit 3
This course surveys the development of Latin America from the pre-colonial period to the colonization of Spain to Portugal, and to independence.
HIST 360 Ancient African History Credit 3
This is a study of African History from the beginning of recorded history to 1800. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST course.
HIST 361 African History After 1800 Credit 3
This is a study of African colonial issues, the struggle for independence, the emergence of nation-states and current issues in Africa. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST course
HIST 405 The Presidencies of the United States ~ Seminar Credit 3
This course will require students to select a president to research and lead the seminar on the following issues about that president throughout the semester: Pre-presidential biography, congressional relationships, domestic policy, economic strategy, cabinet and court appointments, international relations, and effectiveness as commander-in chief. A major research paper is required. Prerequisite: One 100/200 level history course.
HIST 414 Cross-Cultural Internship in Africa Credit 4-12
Provides an elective opportunity for students to gain cross-cultural exposure and understanding in a grassroots African community. Approved students will spend one to three months at a community educational center in Uganda in East Africa to gain cross-cultural experience living and working under the supervision of Ugandan and American educators. Section 004 (1 month) 4 credits; Section 008 (2 months) 8 credits; and Section 012 (three months) 12 credits. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST, registration in HIST 418 course and HIST Major only.
HIST 418 Cross-Cultural Internship Seminar Credit 3
Simultaneously accompanies HIST 414. Prior to going out and after returning, students will attend a group seminar, and during the internship, interns will produce written reflections on their daily experience. Students will present an extended paper on their internship experience. Prerequisite: A 100/200 level HIST, registration in HIST 414 course and HIST Major only.
HIST 440 East Asia from 1600 to the Present Credit 3
This course will examine the inter-related histories of China, Japan, and Korea. The economic, social, political, religious, and cultural developments of East Asia during major historic periods will be studied. Prerequisite: One 100/200 level history course.
HIST 450 Southeast Asia: from 1600 to the Present Credit 3
This course will survey the histories of the nations, which comprise Southeast Asia. The economic, social, political, religious, and cultural developments of Southeast Asia during major historic periods will be studied. Prerequisite: One 100/200 level history course.
HIST 460 Russia: From 1600 to the Present Credit 3
This course will examine the transformation of Russia from a feudal civilization to a military superpower. Attention is given to Tsarist Russia, to the Communist Revolution of 1917, Communist Russia, and the post-Communist Russian Federation. The economic, social, political, religious, and cultural developments of Russia during major historic periods will be studied. Prerequisite: One 100/200 level history course.
HIST 497 Senior Thesis Credit 3
The senior thesis is the culmination of student learning, analysis, and research resulting in a major research paper. The paper will involve a thorough critical examination of a significant historical controversy or historiographical issue. Prerequisites: senior history majors only. Approved topic, approved research proposal, approved bibliography, and significant research completed.
HIST 498 Independent Study of History Credit 3
This course is an intensive study of special topics in history for advanced students. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Prerequisite: HIST Major only.
HIST 499 Independent Study of History Credit 3
This course is an intensive study of special topics in history for advanced students. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Prerequisite: HIST Major only.
Philosophy
PHIL 201 Introduction to Logic Credit 3
This course will be concerned with propositional logic, a major deductive system of symbolic logic. Attention will be paid to the uses of symbolic logic in identifying and evaluating reasoning in ordinary language arguments. Both traditional and symbolic logic will be studied. CA I requirements.
PHIL 202 Ethics Credit 3
This course involves the study of the major philosophers (i.e., Aristotle, Hobbes, Hume, Mill, Kant, etc.). Their distinctive approaches to ethics are presented. Also explored will be the relevance of their views to current debates in moral philosophy. Fundamental questions will be used that reflect on ethical issues. Meets GEN ED CURR AREA I requirements.
Political Science
POLI 200 Introduction to American Government Credit 3
This course presents a critical study of the American political system in its contemporary context: policy-making processes, sources of conflict processes.
POLI 220 Introduction to Political Behavior Credit 3
This course presents a survey of political participation, opinion formation, political persuasion, community power relations, and political change processes.
POLI 311 Comparative Political Systems Credit 3
A comparative study of the political structure, political culture, and operation of selected political systems is the focus of this course.
POLI 312 International Relations Credit 3
The course is a study of basic components of national power and the foreign policy objectives of major nations. Proposed theories explaining the behavior of nations will also be explored.
POLI 330 American Constitutional Law Credit 3
This course traces historical development of American Constitutional Law, as interpreted by the Supreme Court. Impact of Supreme Court decisions is also discussed.
POLI 412 History of Political Thought Credit 3
This class presents a critical analysis of selected topics in political thought from ancient civilizations to the present.
POLI 430 Politics of Developing Nations Credit 3
The focus of this class is contemporary politics, institutions, and ideologies of developing nations; with particular emphasis on Africa: patterns of change, social forces, and nation building.
POLI 490 Political Science Seminar Credit 3
This class presents an intensive study of a selected problem in political science. Since the subject varies from year-to~year, the course may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
POLI 498 Independent Study Credit 1-3
The students with the directed guidance of the instructor, undertakes an in-depth study of a specialized area of political science. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
POLI 499 Independent Study Credit 1
The study with the directed guidance of the instructor, undertakes an in-depth study of a specialized area of political science. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
SOSC 100 First Year Experience Credit 1
This basic seminar introduces the topics of mental health and effectiveness in changing world. This is an applied course to guide the student through a self-assessment process that includes developing a personal plan for academic success. Required course for all social science majors.
Sociology
SOCI 101 Introduction to Sociology/Online Credit 3
This class is intended to provide the student with an introduction to current theories and methods of sociology. Particular attention is paid to social structure, culture, socialization, and social inequality. Prerequisite: Not open to first time Freshmen.
SOCI 201 Social Problems/Online Credit 3
This course presents an analysis of the major social problems affecting modern society, social legislation relating to these problems, resources for treatment and prevention, and deficiencies in existing programs.
SOCI 202 Social Deviance and Social Control Credit 3
Theories of deviance causation and their relevance to analysis of particular types of deviance, such as suicide, mental illness, addiction, sexual deviance are discussed. Investigation of the relationships between deviant and the social reaction of such behavior is the focus of the class. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 250 Juvenile Delinquency Credit 3
The course juvenile delinquency is an introduction to theories of Juvenile delinquency and alternative intervention strategies for reducing the prevalence of juvenile delinquency. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 303 Social Inequality Credit 3
This course investigates social differentiation, its influence upon behavior, and studies of social mobility patterns and their effects on this mobility. The course considers inequality that is present in both an American and International context. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 306 Socialization Credit 3
This course covers the development of personality and the acquisition of the roles, norms, attitudes, and actions that enable a person to function as a member of social groupings. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 221 Research Methods in Behavioral Science Credit 3
This is the first semester of a two-semester sequence. The first semester is devoted to the methods used in collecting data in the social sciences, including various measurement methodologies. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 and Math 109.
SOCI 222 Statistical Methods in Behavioral Science Credit 3
This course, the second of a two-semester sequence is devoted to the statistical analysis of data, including statistical computations, interpretations, and reporting of findings. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 and Math 109.
SOCI 231 Theory I: Foundations in Sociological Theory/Honors Credit 3
This course is a presentation and evaluation of the great currents of sociological thought from the early influence to the emergence of sociology as a major discipline during the Industrial Revolution. Developments up to the early decades of the twentieth century are traced.
SOCI 232 Theory II: Contemporary Sociological Theory Credit 3
This course is a study and evaluation of the various theoretical orientations influencing contemporary sociology. The focus is the influence of classical theory on late twentieth century and current social theory. Prerequisite: SOCI 101.
SOCI 313 Criminology and Penology Credit 3
This class provides an overview of contributions of the various schools to the development of criminology. Theories of physical, psychological, and environment factors in crime are presented. The role of the home and family, social relationships, and the methods and instrumentalities of criminal justice, and crime prevention are central to the class. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 of SOCI 201.
SOCI 316 Marriage and Family Life Credit 3
The major focus of the course is given to preparation for marriage, selection of a partner, financing the marriage, problems of parenthood and family administration, successful and happy marriage, and family union. Prerequisite: SOCI 101or 201.
SOCI 320 Social Movement and Social Change Credit 3
This class is an examination of collective behavior; it considers strategies and actions of movements, as well as examines of their characteristics, membership, and structure. The relationship of the social system and its changes to the social movements will also be examined. Prerequisite: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 326 Social Psychology Credit 3
This course considers personality and behavior as influenced by culture and interpersonal behavior. Social influences on motivation, learning, perception, attitudes, language, and leadership are reviewed. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or SOCI 201.
SOCI 331 American Minority Groups Credit 3
This class is a study of the cultural background distribution, assimilation, and adjustment of minority groups; problems arising from the contacts among people who differ as to race and culture are examines. Prejudice and discrimination will be considered. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or SOCI 201.
SOCI 334 Sociology of Mental Health Credit 3
This course examines the practices relating to mental health in the US and other advanced industrial societies. Special attention is given to the role of economic, politics, and culture in shaping these practices and in affecting the nature and organization of mental health care. Prerequisites: SOCI 101or 201.
SOCI 340 Small Group Analysis Credit 3
The course is a study of small group structures and processes and the emergence of various structures. The course also includes techniques for the analysis of small groups. Prerequisites: SOCI 101, SOCI 201.
SOCI 344 Social Organizational I Credit 3
This course reviews rational, natural, and open perspectives on formal organization. It focuses on the roots of organizational theory and recent attempts to combine those perspectives. Prerequisite: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 345 Organizational Social Psychology Organizational Dynamics I Credit 3
This course provides an understanding of managerial behavior in an organizational setup. It deals with individual attitudes and behavior in interpersonal and intra-group relationships, with a specific goal to improve awareness, perception, and understanding f one’s own and other’s points of view and behavior. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or 201.
SOCI 361 Social Gerontology Credit 3
The course is a sociological consideration of the aging process and the role of the elderly in modern American society. Attention is paid to the changing role of the elderly in society and to the connection of aging to the social, economic, and political structures of society and their change over time. An intentional comparison of the social status of age groups is examined. Prerequisites: SOCI 101 or SOCI 201.
SOCI 400 Organizational Leadership Credit 3
This course presents the concept of leadership in organization. The course presents the concept of leadership at three levels: individual, team and organization. The course includes discussion of major theories with their application in real world situations, and covers the lexicon of leadership studies. Leadership is discussed in the context of work organizations where leadership is required to resolve conflict, manage change, and influence organizational culture.
SOCI 431 Seminar in Sociology Credit 3
The course involves preparation of a special project which is reported in writing and defended orally before the members of the seminar. Permission to take this seminar must be obtained from the instructor. Open to seniors only majoring in Sociology.
SOCI 490 Sociological Internship Credit 3
Approved students are assigned to approved agencies or organizations for orientation and experience in a sociological field under the guidance of a trained professional, as well as a member of the University faculty. Prior to going out and after return, students attend a seminar. Students present an extended paper on their internship experience. Prerequisites: Thirty hours of Sociology, Senior Standing, cumulative grade point average of 2.25 or better, and permission of supervising instructor. Prerequisites: Senior sociology majors only.
SOCI 498 Independent Study in Sociology Credit 3
This class is an intensive study of specialized topics in Sociology for advanced students. Permission to take an independent study must be obtained from the instructor.
SOCI 499 Independent Study in Sociology Credit 3
This class is an intensive study of specialized topics in Sociology for advanced students. Permission to take an independent study must be obtained from the instructor.
SOWK 200 Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare/Honors Credit 3
This course is the introductory course to the social work profession. It examines the social welfare system as society’s response to human need and as a structure for delivery of social services. An overview of the fields of social welfare service and the social work roles in each field are provided. Twenty-five additional hours of volunteer service in a social agency are required.
SOWK 300 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I/Honors Credit 3
This course focuses on the inter-relationships of biological and psychosocial factor in human development throughout the life span. It examines the dynamics of human behavior in a social context, with beginning level social assessment. Prerequisites: SOWK 200, BIOL 101, SOCI 101, PSYC 200, or consent of instructor.
SOWK 302 Human Behavior in the Social Environment II/Honors Credit 3
This course studies human behavior as it is affected by race, class, gender, and sexual orientation. It highlights the experience of oppression and its impact on families and groups. It includes strategies to bring about social change in organizations and communities. Prerequisites: SOWK 200 and 300.
SOWK 350 Social Work Policy/Honors Credit 3
This course provides an historical and analytical overview of social welfare in the United States. It offers selective examinations of contemporary programs and services, analyses of alternative issues and problems, and evaluations of programs and services and their effectiveness. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 310 Basic Interviewing Skills and Techniques Credit 3
This course develops students’ basic interviewing skills for assessing, goal setting, and intervention in social work settings. Its emphasis is on skill application with diverse populations. Students will also explore their personal values and belief systems.
SOWK 316 Social Work Research I Credit 3
This is the first of two courses in social work and evaluation research. Emphasis is placed on understanding the development and use of scientific knowledge and the application of that knowledge to evaluate social work interventions and program evaluation. Special attention is given to applied research methodologies that will enhance the student’s use of evidence-based social work knowledge and skills.
SOWK 317 Social Work Research II Credit 3
This is the second of two courses focused on the basic concepts and methods of scientific inquiry used to build knowledge and evaluate practice. The course material builds upon and expands that covered in Social Work Research I. Specific topics include an introduction to program evaluation, single subject designs, data analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics, presentation of data and report writing, and application of findings to practice. Special attention is given to applied research methodologies that will enhance the student’s use of evidence-based social work knowledge and skills.
SOWK 320 Social Work Practice I Credit 3
This is the first of three practice courses preparing students for a generalist approach to social work practice. Its emphasis is on the knowledge, values, ethics, and skills needed to develop effective helping relationships. It includes basic theories for intervention with a focus on micro level problem solving and basic interviews skills. Prerequisites: SOWK 200, 300 and 310.
SOWK 350 Social Work with Older People Credit 3
This course is a study of older Americans and of the programs and policies designed to support them. It reviews social work practice skills in providing direct service to older people. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 400 Social Work Practice II Credit 3
This is the second of three practice courses preparing students for a generalist approach to social work practice. It expands on the basic knowledge, values, ethics, and skills, with an emphasis on mezzo level problem solving. It includes theories and techniques for planning assessment and advocacy for family and small group intervention. Prerequisites: SOCI 309 or SOWK 315 and 320. Co-requisite: SOWK 406 or 407 and admission to the professional program.
SOWK 405 Field Instruction in Social Work Credit 3
This course is the supervised experience in a social welfare agency with emphasis on methods and techniques in generalist social work practice. It provides an opportunity to apply theory and develop skills in delivery of social services. Co-requisites: SOWK 400 and 406. Prerequisites: SOWK 302, SOCI 309 or SOWK 315 and 320, and admission to the professional program. Students volunteer two days per week in an agency.
SOWK 406 Field Instruction Seminar I Credit 1
This course is the weekly on-campus seminar students enroll in concurrently with Field Instruction I. Its format is small group discussions of field experiences with related written assignments. Co-requisites: SOWK 400, 405 Prerequisite: SOWK 320. One hour per week.
SOWK 407 Field Instruction in Social Work II Credit 3
This course is the continuation of the direct experience in the delivery of social services within an assigned agency. There is an increased emphasis on assessment, intervention, and evaluation skills of generalist social work. Co-requisite: SOWK 410 and 408. Prerequisite: SOWK 405 and 406. Students volunteer two days per week in an agency.
SOWK 408 Field Instruction Seminar II Credit 1
This course is the weekly on campus seminar students enroll in concurrently with Field instruction II. Its format is small group discussion of field experiences with related written assignments. Co-requisites: SOWK 407and 410. Prerequisites: SOWK 405 and 406.
SOWK 410 Social Work Practice III Credit 3
This is the third of three practice courses preparing students for a generalist approach to social work. It expands on the basic knowledge, values, ethics, and skills, of the two previous courses with an emphasis on macro level problem solving. It includes theories and techniques needed for practice within an organizational or community context. Prerequisite: SOWK 400. Co-requisites: SOWK 407 and 408.
SOWK 450 Social Work with Families/Children Credit 3
This course is a survey of child welfare services and examination of current policies in social work for children and their families. It considers practice issues in protective services; in-home services to families; and substitute care including adoption and foster care. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 455 Substance Abuse: Issues and Services Credit 3
This course is a study of alcohol and drug abuse and services related to them. The topics include theoretical perspectives on abuse, pharmacological characteristics of commonly abused substances, and stages of dependence and addiction. An overview of societal responses to substance abuse, including new enforcement, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention, is included.. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 460 Social Work in Corrections Credit 3
This course reviews social work interventions in a variety of correctional settings. It focuses on the professional role in court and correctional procedures within institutional and community based programs. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 465 Social Work in Health Care Credit 3
This course explores the role of social work practice in various health care settings. Its emphasis is on the changing concepts of health and illness. It assesses the nature of health and illness. It evaluates the nature of health care organizations, funding mechanisms, and ethical dilemmas in social work health care. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 470 Social Work in Mental Health Credit 3
This course investigates the role of the social work profession within the mental health delivery system, utilizing a generalist social work approach. It includes social work and mental health concepts, policies, research methods, and program development examined in social service agencies, community mental health facilities, and institutional accommodations. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 475 Social Work With Persons Who Have Disabilities Credit 3
This course provides an overview of physical, social, and emotional implications of disabilities within the context of generalist social work practice. The topics include sensitivity to discrimination in society, laws, and available service and personal and family adjustment to disability. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 484 Social Work and the Law Credit 3
This course is a study of social welfare, family, consumer law, and the legal authority of social agencies to make regulations. It reviews guidelines for court testimony and rules of evidence. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
SOWK 490 Individual Directed Study Credit 1-3
This course enables advanced students to pursue topics of their own choosing with the guidance and supervision of the faculty. This course cannot duplicate any course in the department. For Independent Study, the student must have the written consent of the instructor prior to enrolling in the course. Prerequisites: SOWK 200
SOWK 499 Independent Study/Special Topics Credit 3
This course provides opportunities for investigating special themes or issues of interest to students and the social work profession. It may be repeated once under a different subtitle. For Independent Study, the student must have the written consent of the instructor prior to enrolling in the course. Prerequisites: SOWK 200.
