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B.S. in Actuarial Science

Otterbein University Course Catalogs

2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Apr 19, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS


For course prefix translations, click here .

 
  
  • POLS 1000 - American National Government

    Hours: 3
    A survey of the institutions, processes, and politics of the government of the United States. Particular emphasis is placed on the historic development of federalism, the Congress, the Presidency, the Judiciary, the national bureaucracy, political parties, and interest groups.
  
  • POLS 1150 - Introduction to Political Philosophy - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the study of political philosophy and survey of the major thinkers in the Western political tradition, from Plato to the present, including an examination of the principal concepts and theories.
  
  • POLS 1300 - Introduction to Global Politics

    Hours: 3
    Theories of international relations, and how countries interact in a world of uncertainty and competing interests.
  
  • POLS 1910 - Experimental Course Topics

    Hours: 1-3
    Experimental course topics.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • POLS 2270 - Comparative Government

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the various internal political systems of countries around the world. Exploring the wide variety of democracies and dictatorships using comparative methods.
  
  • POLS 2300 - Methods of Research and Inquiry in Political Science

    Hours: 3
    Basic procedures, material, and research tools used by political scientists. An introduction to the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the discipline.
  
  • POLS 2400 - Democratic Theory and Citizenship

    Hours: 3
    The historical development of and contemporary debates regarding the meaning of democracy. Examining the ideas, possibilities, and limitations of democratic governance, as well as the conceptual, theoretical, and institutional understandings of democracy in relation to participatory democracy, republicanism, liberalism, and representation.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2013.
  
  • POLS 2450 - The Political Film

    Hours: 3
    Examining the culture industry by investigating how movies (and entertainment more generally) structure ideology and inform a critique of political life. Power will be examined through a study of the way culture is framed, produced, and consumed. Taking a critical approach to popular media, especially film.
  
  • POLS 2910 - Experimental Course Topics

    Hours: 1-3
    Experimental course topics.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • POLS 3000 - American Legislative Process

    Hours: 3
    The legislative and representative process with attention to the committee system, seniority, party leadership, and relations with other branches of government. Primary focus is on the U.S. Congress and its norms, rules, and procedures.
  
  • POLS 3050 - Judicial Process

    Hours: 3
    The role of federal and state courts as political institutions, with special attention to the roles of judges and lawyers in the judicial process. Examination of civil and criminal courts, including judicial norms and procedures.
  
  • POLS 3100 - Contemporary Politics in State and Local Government

    Hours: 3
    The state and local government structures, operations, and intergovernmental processes in the United States. The state and local governments of Ohio are used as a basis for providing comparative analysis among state and local governments.
  
  • POLS 3250 - Introduction to Public Administration

    Hours: 4
    This introductory course in public administration explores responsive, equitable, effective, efficient, and accountable governance processes, public policies, and institutional-base programs. Set within a context of contemporary political, social, economic, and administrative realities. The course examines essential competencies, values, and issues important to public service organizations and the importance of public policy at the local, state, national and international levels.
  
  • POLS 3280 - Environmental Political Theory

    Hours: 3
    Key perspectives and contemporary currents in environmental political theory. The issues of political practice and the underlying theoretical questions concerning environmental and ecological politics. Analyzing the actors, spaces, and power relations of environmental politics in relation to the different ways to think about the natural environment and the major themes of politics and political theory, such as law, policy, social movements, political economy, subjectivity, justice, citizenship, and democracy.
  
  • POLS 3300 - The Presidency

    Hours: 3
    The evolution of presidential power and theories of presidential behavior. The function of the Electoral College and the primary system in presidential elections. Exploring the role of the Executive Office and the bureaucracy.
  
  • POLS 3400 - Theories of Race and Politics

    Hours: 3
    Examines race, racism, and politics from a political theory perspective. Draws from critical race theory, legal theory, political philosophy, theories of intersectionality, and theories of anti-racism to examine the integral relationship between race and power in the formation of the U.S. political system and how racialized hierarchies are reinforced in law, social norms, culture, and in modes of thinking.
  
  • POLS 3480 - Gender and Feminist Political Theory

    Hours: 3
    Key debates in gender and feminist political theory, including the understanding of politics as the study of power, conceptions of gender, the role of women in political thought, and how gendered identities are conceived and organized in contemporary politics and society.
  
  • POLS 3510 - Special Topics in American Law and Politics

    Hours: 3
    An in-depth examination of a timely or specialized subject focused on American law and/or politics. Past topics have included Affirmative Action, the 2000 Election, and Law and Society.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of 6 hrs.
  
  • POLS 3520 - Special Topics in Global Politics

    Hours: 3
    An in-depth examination of a timely or specialized subject focused on Global Politics.
     
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of 6 hrs.
  
  • POLS 3530 - Special Topics Seminar in Political Theory

    Hours: 3
    An in-depth examination of a timely or specialized subject focused in political theory, such as critical theory, radical and revolutionary political theory, conservative political theory, or focus on individual contemporary political theorists.
  
  • POLS 3550 - American Foreign Policy

    Hours: 3
    The formulation and execution of United States foreign policy, emphasizing challenges and controversies during the post-World War II period.
  
  • POLS 3870 - Terrorism and Genocide

    Hours: 3
    The causes and consequences of violence perpetrated against civilians by governments (genocide) and by non-state actors (terrorism). How genocide and terrorism have been organized throughout history, and how they have evolved into their current applications. The extent to which religion, nationality, race, ethnicity, and patriarchy serve as motivating principles for genocide and terrorism.
  
  • POLS 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 1-3
    Independent study.
    Prerequisites: Open to Political Science majors only, and permission of instructor.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • POLS 4100 - International Law and Citizenship

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the relationship between international law and international politics. How international commitments are generated, adjudicated and enforced. Significant treaties and intergovernmental organizations like the United Nations, the International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court.
  
  • POLS 4200 - Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights

    Hours: 3
    The principles of the American constitution and Supreme Court decision-making. Examining concepts such as judicial review, separation of powers, equal protection of the law, race and sex discrimination, voting rights, the right to privacy, freedom of speech and religion, due process, and the rights of the accused. Principles of legal reasoning.
  
  • POLS 4450 - Marxism

    Hours: 3
    The political thought and practice arising from the works of Karl Marx, including the notions of historical materialism, dialectics, alienation, political economy, and revolutionary practice. Extensive reading of the works of Marx and Engels and later Marxian thinkers and actors.
  
  • POLS 4650 - Campaigns and Elections

    Hours: 3
    The structure, functions, and operations of political parties, elections, public opinion, the media, and interest groups in American national politics.
  
  • POLS 4690 - Globalization, Justice, and Democracy

    Hours: 3
    Contemporary debates concerning democracy, justice, and human rights in relation to early-21st century forms of globalization and international political economy.
  
  • POLS 4800 - Regional Politics

    Hours: 3
  
  • POLS 4820 - Middle East Politics

    Hours: 3
    Contemporary domestic and foreign politics in the Middle East, including the Arab-Israeli conflict, the politics of oil, the impact of religion, the clash of national sentiments, and the role of global and regional powers in the affairs of these countries.
  
  • POLS 4850 - East Asian Politics

    Hours: 3
    A specialized historical examination of the military, political, social, and economic relations among nation-states of East Asia.
  
  • POLS 4880 - African Politics

    Hours: 3
    The post-colonial politics of sub-Saharan African states, with special reference to issues of nation-building, ethno-politics, challenges of development, regional cooperation, and Pan-African unity.
  
  • POLS 4900 - Internship

    Hours: 1-12
    Work with governmental agencies, political candidates, lobbies, and other private institutions interested in the public sector.
    Prerequisites: Open to Political Science majors only.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • PSYC 1000 - Psychology for Non-Majors

    Hours: 3
    The human being from a range of perspectives in psychology. Introduces the major concepts, theories, methods, and findings in the areas of neuropsychology, perception, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, family systems, health, personality, therapy, creativity, and social and societal interactions. Integrates the theories and research in each major area of psychology and applies general psychological principles to other disciplines, contributing to a fuller understanding of people’s inner and social lives.
  
  • PSYC 1050 - General Psychology - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 4
    A survey of the field of psychology, examining the biological, cognitive, and social bases of human thought, emotion, and action. Topics include research methods, neuropsychology, perception, learning and memory, language, consciousness, theories of personality, social interactions, cultural influences, abnormal behavior, and psychotherapy. The scientific study of psychological phenomena and the application of research findings to people’s lives. Includes required laboratory participation.
  
  • PSYC 1060 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

    Hours: 4
    The theory and application of basic statistical techniques. The fundamentals of research design and data analysis and developing familiarity with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), a common tool for students and researchers in psychology.
    Prerequisites: C- or better in MATH 0900, or qualification through Otterbein’s Mathematics Placement Exam.
  
  • PSYC 2000 - Lifespan Development

    Hours: 3
    Human development throughout the lifespan, from conception through death. Combining theory, research, and practical applications, progressing chronologically through the lifespan, with an emphasis on biological, cognitive, and psychosocial development during each developmental period. Specific periods addressed include prenatal development, birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence, emerging adulthood, middle adulthood, and late adulthood, including aging and end-of-life issues.
  
  • PSYC 2051 - Professional Development for First Year Psychology Majors

    Hours: 0.25
    Preparation for graduate school or a career in psychology or related fields. Promotes a sense of community among Psychology majors and faculty. Highlights the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform career and/or graduate school decisions. Opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. An online portfolio of work, such as resumes and writing samples, will be maintained throughout time in the major. Topics that interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, and possible paths to follow with a degree in psychology. Fall offerings feature outside speakers on psychology, and spring offerings include attendance at the Psychology Research Reporting Day.
    Prerequisites: Open to first year Psychology majors only.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of .5 credits.
  
  • PSYC 2052 - Professional Development for Second Year Psychology Majors

    Hours: 0.25
    Preparation for graduate school or a career in psychology or related fields. Promotes a sense of community among Psychology majors and faculty. Highlights the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform career and/or graduate school decisions. Opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. An online portfolio of work, such as resumes and writing samples, will be maintained throughout time in the major. Topics that interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, and possible paths to follow with a degree in psychology. Fall offerings feature outside speakers on psychology, and spring offerings include attendance at the Psychology Research Reporting Day.
    Prerequisites: Open to second year Psychology majors only.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of .5 credits.
  
  • PSYC 2053 - Professional Development for Third Year Psychology Majors

    Hours: 0.25
    Preparation for graduate school or a career in psychology or related fields. Promotes a sense of community among Psychology majors and faculty. Highlights the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform career and/or graduate school decisions. Opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. An online portfolio of work, such as resumes and writing samples, will be maintained throughout time in the major. Topics that interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, and possible paths to follow with a degree in psychology. Fall offerings feature outside speakers on psychology, and spring offerings include attendance at the Psychology Research Reporting Day.
    Prerequisites: Open to third year Psychology majors only.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of .5 credits.
  
  • PSYC 2054 - Professional Development for Fourth Year Psychology Majors

    Hours: 0.25
    Preparation for graduate school or a career in psychology or related fields. Promotes a sense of community among Psychology majors and faculty. Highlights the distinctions between different areas of psychology to help inform career and/or graduate school decisions. Opportunities for becoming involved with research in the Psychology Department. An online portfolio of work, such as resumes and writing samples, will be maintained throughout time in the major. Topics that interest psychology majors, from internship opportunities, to studying for the GRE and applying to graduate school, and possible paths to follow with a degree in psychology. Fall offerings feature outside speakers on psychology, and spring offerings include attendance at the Psychology Research Reporting Day.
    Prerequisites: Open to fourth year Psychology majors only.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of .5 credits.
  
  • PSYC 2310 - Child and Adolescent Development

    Hours: 3
    An examination of human development during the early years of life, including prenatal development, birth, infancy, childhood, and adolescence. How humans grow and change physically, emotionally and cognitively; the influence of biological, psychological, and social factors on early development are considered. Examples of topics addressed include: learning, attachment, language, sex roles, and parenting.
  
  • PSYC 2330 - Psychology of Personality

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to personality psychology. The origins, evolution, main themes, and major applications of some of the most influential personality theories. Evaluating the empirical data supporting and challenging each theory, discussing the social and psychological implications of the various theories, and assessing their contributions to our understanding of self and others. Developing the ability to broadly discuss different approaches to personality and the general challenges inherent in the attempt to define and measure personality. Appreciation of the role of critical empirical inquiry in evaluating theoretical claims regarding personality, and the multidimensional nature of human behavior and the importance of context in shaping our understanding and perceptions.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050.
  
  • PSYC 2410 - Diversity in Psychology

    Hours: 3
    A broad based introduction to contemporary and historical issues that have explicit and implicit psychological relevance and import for visible racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Societal groups highlighted include: African Americans, Chinese Americans, Japanese Americans, Mexican Americans, Puerto Rican Americans, and American Indians. Increases cross cultural knowledge and enhances cross cultural awareness and appreciation. Psychology provides a foundation, while paradigms and literature reviewed merge with related disciplines.
    Prerequisites: Sophomore standing.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2010.
  
  • PSYC 2500 - Research Methods I - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 4
    An introduction to issues and problems in methods and inference in psychological research. The fundamentals of a variety of methods including surveys and correlational design, experiments, and quasi-experiments. Participation in laboratory experience and research, including collecting and analyzing data.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050, a C- or better in 1060, and Sophomore level or above; or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 2610 - Social Psychology

    Hours: 3
    The ways humans interact with other humans. The power of situations in shaping human behavior and thought, and the power of thought in creating our individual social realities. How to persuade others and resist persuasion, how to address stereotyping, racism, and sexism. What the important aspects of romantic relationships are, what the relationship between media influences and violence is, and how to promote altruistic behaviors. Understanding what social psychology is, including the issues that are studied and how they relate to our everyday lives. Appreciating the basic concepts underlying social psychology and becoming familiar with some of the better known theories and research findings. How to read social psychology literature and how to be a critical consumer of psychology research.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2014.
  
  • PSYC 3110 - Physiological Psychology

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the physiological systems that underlie behavior with emphasis on the structure and function of the nervous system, neurotransmitters and the sensory systems. Research methods unique to the field of physiological psychology. Clinically relevant topics include but are not limited to Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and schizophrenia.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and 2500, or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 3120 - Psychology of Perception

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to sensations, sensory processes, and their organization into perceptions. Human perception, particularly vision and hearing is addressed. Psychophysical, physiological, and cognitive perspectives are included. Psychological factors influencing the perception of depth, form, movement, color and illusions. Themes include: perceptual loss, perceptual recovery, and perceptual learning.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and 2500, or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 3130 - Stress and Health Psychology

    Hours: 3
    Topics related to the mind-body connection, with particular emphasis on psychophysiology and the links between stress, health, and wellness. Exploring the physiology of stress, various body systems are reviewed, including the central and peripheral nervous systems as well as the limbic, endocrine, and immune systems, all important to understanding the burgeoning discipline of Psychoneuroimmunology. The role of psychological processes in the development and treatment of medical conditions such as heart problems, obesity, addiction, and cancer are explored. The role of self-regulation in illness prevention and health maintenance is addressed theoretically and practically as basic biofeedback and other behaviorally-based health interventions such as mindfulness meditation are considered.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050, and Sophomore level or above.
  
  • PSYC 3210 - Abnormal Psychology

    Hours: 3
    Adult psychopathology, including a broad overview of various categories of mental disorders outlined in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), as well as other systems for mental disorder classification. Specific categories of disorders reviewed may include: adjustment, mood, anxiety, personality, dissociative, thought, and sexual disorders. Exploring perennial trends, controversies, and issues in the field. Various theoretical paradigms purported to explain psychopathology are reviewed. Introduction to a multicultural paradigm pertaining to issues in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of ethnic populations.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050, and Soph level or above.
  
  • PSYC 3410 - Human Sexuality

    Hours: 3
    Topics in human sexuality, including the biology of sexual behavior, the sexual response cycle, socio-cultural influences on sexuality, sex and reproduction, sexual deviance, and gender roles. An introduction to theoretical and applied issues in the scientific study of human sexuality. Exploring the biological, psychological, and cultural aspects of human sexuality in the context of the empirical research literature as well as students’ personal experiences and value systems. A complex and often controversial subject, human sexuality touches on deep personal feelings, beliefs, and experiences. An opportunity to examine, explore, and reflect on issues of sexuality in a safe, supportive environment. Respecting diversity of opinions and ideas, remaining open to growth and change, and seeking to understand first and making informed judgments later.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1000 or 1050.
  
  • PSYC 3420 - Psychology of Women

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the scientific study of the psychology of women. Examining the lives of girls and women, including such topics as the development of gender roles, gender comparisons, media portrayals of women and work, motherhood, love relationships, women’s physical and mental health, violence against women, and women in later adulthood. Taking a multicultural perspective and considering the interaction of gender, race, and class. Emphasizing the importance of empirical research to the study of gender issues, and completing an empirical research project. Includes applied service-learning working with local agencies that serve girls and women. Acquiring an understanding of psychological theories and research related to women and what it means to be a contemporary woman in the United States and in other countries.
  
  • PSYC 3500 - Research Methods II

    Hours: 3
    Builds upon the foundations established in Research Methods I. Designing a true experimental manipulation of choice. Computer based studies may be designed and implemented, but data collection must take place in controlled environs. Conducting a thorough review of the literature in a field, collecting data, analyzing data using available statistical packages, writing a final report, and preparing an oral presentation. Presentations will be submitted to OUPRC, a statewide undergraduate psychology conference.
    Prerequisites: C- or better in PSYC 2500.
  
  • PSYC 3510 - Assessment

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the basic theory and practice of psychological testing and assessment. The basic principles of test construction and evaluation, and the application of these principles to intelligence and educational testing. Attempting to answer questions such as: What is the purpose of psychological assessment? What makes a test good? How can tests and testing be abused? Who decides what and whom to test? Are psychological constructs such as intelligence really measurable? The theory and practice of personality, clinical, neuropsychological, and workplace assessment. The theory, methods and uses of clinical assessment and acquiring a basic understanding of the methods and purpose of neuropsychological testing. Attempting to answer questions such as: Is there such thing as personality? If so, can it be assessed usefully? What is the purpose of personality assessment? How can personality tests and testing be abused? Gaining an appreciation of both the challenge and the promise of psychological testing to become better consumers of tests, test interpretations, and information about testing.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 1050 and 1060.
  
  • PSYC 3610 - Cognitive Psychology

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the psychological study of mental processes. Exploring critical concepts, theories, paradoxes, and applications involved in the study of the mind. Topics include the interface between perception and cognition, consciousness, learning, memory, self, language, cognitive therapies, the interplay between cognitive and social processes, representation of knowledge, and artificial intelligence.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2500 or permission of instructor.
  
  • PSYC 3710 - Seminar

    Hours: 4
    Topics in research psychology that have produced significant findings in the past decade, especially in the areas of cognitive, perceptual, physiological, social, developmental, health, and environmental psychology. Possible topics may include: gender and close relationships, disaster psychology, and the self.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2500, or permission of instructor.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of 8 hrs.
  
  • PSYC 3720 - Industrial and Organizational Psychology

    Hours: 3
    Industrial/organizational psychologists study human behavior as it occurs in work settings, however, there are many separate areas of specialization. An overview of the many areas of I/O Psychology. Understanding both the science and the practice (application) of industrial/organizational psychology. Considering the role of industrial/organizational psychology in the ever-changing workplace of today and the future. Topics covered include, but are not limited to: personnel assessment, performance appraisal, work motivation, employee attitude assessment, leadership, group processes in the workplace, stress in the workplace, and multicultural and globalization issues.
  
  • PSYC 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 0-4
    An opportunity to engage in independent study in an area not otherwise available.
    Prerequisites: Instructor permission.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • PSYC 4000 - History and Systems in Psychology

    Hours: 3
    The history of psychology along with the major themes and movements that have emerged and influenced the development of the field. Topics include: the physiological and philosophical origins of scientific psychology, the rise of dynamic psychology, early experimental and quantitative psychology, the structuralism/functionalism debate, animal learning and the origins of behaviorism, World War I and mental testing, neobehaviorism, the influence of Gestalt psychology, and World War II and the cognitive revolution. An integrative perspective on the varied coursework of the Psychology major.
  
  • PSYC 4210 - Developmental Psychopathology

    Hours: 3
    A consideration of what happens when development goes awry. Understanding and defining psychological problems in light of typical development during childhood and adolescence. Developmental delays and behavioral, learning, and emotional problems in childhood and adolescence. Through the examination of theoretical models, hypothesized causes, symptom configuration, and common treatments, an introduction to the many ways in which development can be adversely affected and corrected.
  
  • PSYC 4220 - Psychotherapy

    Hours: 3
    The main psychological theories and their attendant therapeutic modalities that aim to understand and reduce human suffering and mental illness. Select traditional and contemporary theories and therapeutic approaches are reviewed. The role of a-theoretical, nonspecific curative factors, associated with psycho-emotional healing are explored. Exploring the concepts of ‘treatment plan’ and ‘case conceptualization’ and their role in turning theory into therapy. Development of basic communication skills and experimentation with select psychotherapy techniques and/or interventions are emphasized. Issues and practices relevant to conducting psychotherapy with members of diverse populations as well as ethical considerations and requirements for therapists.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2330 and Junior standing or above.
  
  • PSYC 4510 - Research Practicum

    Hours: 3
    A focused experience in one research area of psychology. Provides experience in all aspects of research, including expertise in the relevant literature, research design, data analysis, and writing for publication.
    Prerequisites: PSYC 2500 and permission of instructor.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of 6 hrs.
  
  • PSYC 4900 - Internship

    Hours: 1-16
    Supervised experience in a cooperating agency or institution. Particular internships are designed with regard to the skills of the student and depend on the willingness of a faculty member to work with and supervise qualified and highly motivated students toward such placements.
    Prerequisites: Junior level or above and appropriate coursework.
    Notes:  This course is repeatable.
  
  • PUBH 1700 - Public Health and Society

    Hours: 3
    Health issues related to the public’s health. Topics may include, but are not limited to: maternal child health, environmental health, health disparities, physical inactivity, nutrition and tobacco use. Appropriate responses to problems related to these same health issues. Critically assessing issues related to the public’s health.
    SP Sem.
  
  • PUBH 1910 - Experimental Course Topics

    Hours: 1-3
    Experimental course topics.
    Notes: This course is repeatable. 
  
  • PUBH 2400 - Public Health Epidemiology

    Hours: 3
    The study (scientific, systematic, and data-driven) of the distribution (frequency, pattern) and determinants (causes, risk factors) of health-related states and events (not just diseases) in specified populations (neighborhood, school, city, state, country, global) (CDC, 2011). Principles of the epidemiologic method including problem solving. Various study designs are discussed, including prospective and retrospective studies, analytical, and experimental methods.
    SP Sem. 
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PUBH 3200 - Global Health

    Hours: 3
    The historical, economic, political, and social factors that shape the unequal distribution of health and burden of disease between global north and global south countries and between socioeconomic groups within countries. Exploring the worldwide impacts of globalization on health, infectious and chronic disease, availability of healthcare, health outcomes and proposed interventions. An overview of development and global health theories and concepts focusing on major global health topics such as environmental health, food security, indigenous health, refugee and migrant health, addiction, war and violence, HIV/AIDS epidemic and STDs, maternal and child health, and health impacts of climate change, among other topics, with special attention to how these intersect with economic, political, social, and cultural forces. Includes the development of a research project in a global health topic of choice to be presented in a forum open to the public.
    Notes: Cross-listed with SOCL 3200
  
  • PUBH 3500 - Health Education Program Planning and Evaluation - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    Understanding and applying health education skills associated with population needs assessment, program planning, implementation and evaluation of health education/wellness programs in a variety of settings. Includes several community planning models, theories, and strategies within the context of the socio-ecological perspective. Foundations of the health education profession, including interpretation of research and ethical considerations are emphasized. A service learning component provides an opportunity to apply assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation skills in an educational setting within the community.
    FA Sem. 
    Prerequisites: PUBH 1700 or HLED 1400, and Jr standing or above.
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PUBH 3900 - Independent Study in Health Education

    Hours: 1-5
    An opportunity to work independently in learning beyond the required program of study. Registration for such work is in collaboration with the academic advisor.
    Prerequisites: Sophomore standing or above, and permission of the instructor.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • PUBH 4000 - Public Health Education Methods and Special Topics

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to resource materials and methods appropriate for public health education. Includes the skills needed to become effective public health educators, including policy development, advocacy, coalition building, grant writing, cultural competency, fund raising, and community health assessment. Various mediums of instruction in direct application to public health programs.
    FA Sem.
    Prerequisites: PUBH 3500.
    Notes: This course has an additional fee.
  
  • PUBH 4901 - Internship in Health Education - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 6-9
    An opportunity to apply all or most of the seven health education areas of responsibility in a dedicated, 168-378 hour culminating experience with a public health agency or organization. All seven areas of responsibility and related competencies for NCHEC may potentially be applied.
    FA, SP Sems.
  
  • RELG 1000 - Introduction to Religion

    Hours: 3
    An introduction to the academic study of religion. Religion as a significant phenomenon in the historical development of humanity, and as a subject worthy of serious critical investigation. Religion from standpoints derived from a number of disciplines (including history, anthropology, sociology, psychology, and comparative religions), and a wide variety of perspectives on the subject, even those of such radical critics of religion as Freud, Marx, and Richard Dawkins. Examines both the practical and the conceptual aspects of religion, and considers such important issues as the origins and development of religion, similarities and differences among global religions, varieties of religious experience and expression (including symbol, myth, ritual, community, and ethics), and the relationship between religion and contemporary life, science, sexuality, dreams, and belief in life after death.
  
  • RELG 1300 - Philosophy of Religion

    Hours: 3
    The various ways human beings understand the nature of the Ultimate, among them: theism, polytheism, deism, monism, pantheism, and kathenotheism. Questions about religious belief: arguments for and against the existence of God, the nature of religious faith and mystical experience, the problem of evil, the conflict between belief in miracles and the scientific world view, reasons for accepting and rejecting the notion of life after death. While typically confined to Western and theistic concerns, a more global approach to the topic is taken.
  
  • RELG 2000 - History of Early Christianity

    Hours: 3
    The rise and expansion of Christianity from the beginning of the second century to the Reformation, and the institutional and the intellectual history of the Christian Church during those centuries. Institutional history involves questions such as: When and how did the Papacy first appear? What events precipitated the Protestant Reformation? Intellectual history focuses on the important theological ideas one finds in early Christianity such as: How did early Christian thinkers understand the nature of the soul, the imperfection of the physical world, and human sinfulness? The lives and thought of important Christian theologians.
  
  • RELG 2050 - Religion, Spirituality, and Performance

    Hours: 3
    Religious ritual and artistic performance share many features: a script, performers, an audience, and often a broader goal to facilitate some meaningful or even transformative experience for those who are present. Exploring the significant intersections, and differences, between religion/spirituality and performance, and probing the question of what it means to be creative beings, and whether human creativity is in itself a spiritual process. A variety of creative and performative traditions in different religious contexts, including Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Christian, Native American, Taoist, and Jewish religions.
  
  • RELG 2200 - Religions of the Americas

    Hours: 3
    Surveys religion in the Americas by examining both major and minor traditions, movements, persons, and ideas that have made significant impact on American spiritual landscapes from pre-Columbian times to the present. Key themes to be addressed include: Native American religions of North and South America; African-American spiritualties; Caribbean and Hawaiian spiritual traditions; the roots of American Judaism and Catholicism; the origins and dominance of Protestantism; the rise of pluralism and denominationalism; the sources and persistence of Liberalism; the impact of the American frontier on religious structures; the importance of rational religion (e.g., Deism) at the nation’s founding; the religious significance of the “Manifest Destiny” idea; the emergence and spread of revivalism; the rise and proliferation of America’s many and diverse indigenous Christian denominations; the Social Gospel; Fundamentalism; immigrant religions of the late 20th and early 21st centuries; and so-called “New Age spirituality.” In thinking of the many cultures and subcultures of the Americas, considering the notion of community and what constitutes the “public good” both locally and globally, specifically examining how religion plays a role in this understanding and reflecting upon how these ideas intersect with our own lives and experiences as well.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2212.
  
  • RELG 2300 - Introduction to Judaism and the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    Introduction to two major components of the study of Judaism: the stories of the ancient Israelites that come to us in the form of the Hebrew Bible/Christian Old Testament, and the complex world of modern Judaism. The world of ancient Near Eastern literature will form the background of a discussion about the origins and development of early Jewish monotheism. The question of the “historicity” of Israel will also be considered as we study historical-critical methods for understanding ancient texts. Contemporary issues in the land of Israel-Palestine will be discussed and a visit to Temple Israel will be scheduled.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2215.
  
  • RELG 2400 - Introduction to the New Testament/Christian Origins - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    An introductory study of the major theological insights of the twenty-seven writings of the canonical New Testament as well as other manuscripts from early Christian origins. The focus will be on the streams of apostolic tradition that influenced the writers of these works, the communities in which they lived, and the issues that were addressed. The relationship of the canon as an authoritative collection of sacred books will be compared to extra-canonical writings resulting in an awareness of the variety of methods used to interpret religious texts as well as the diversity reflected in early Christian literature.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2216.
  
  • RELG 2500 - The Islamic Faith

    Hours: 3
    Examining Islam, the fastest growing religion in the world, and now the second largest religion in both the United States and the world. Reading and analyzing Islam’s key scripture, the Qur’an, with respect to recurring themes, and the beliefs, practices and history of Islam will be examined in light of its major expressions, Sunni and Shi’a, but with some attention paid the faith’s mystical minority, the Sufis. The many ways that Islam appears throughout the world according to cultural and geographic context. Examining the role that this faith has played in the politics of the United States and the world community, particularly in the wake of immigration policies, the World Trade Center attack on 9/11/01, and the subsequent U.S.-led military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the refugee crisis following the rise of the so-called Islamic State.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2219.
  
  • RELG 2600 - Religions of India

    Hours: 3
    Introduction to the basic ideas, history and practices of the religions of India. Religions covered may include: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Zoroastrian (Parsi) traditions, Adivasi (tribal) traditions, and the unique features of Indian Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. We will explore these religions in the context of Indian history, as well as addressing the beliefs, rituals, ethics, philosophies, and cultures associated with each tradition we study. The many ways these traditions interact with one another in the vibrant Indian social landscape.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2213.
  
  • RELG 2750 - Religions of China: Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism in Dialogue

    Hours: 3
    When Buddhism was introduced to China, sometime around the second century CE, it encountered a culture with strong Confucian and Daoist roots. Over time, Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism have continued to interact with and influence one another in Chinese cultural and spiritual landscapes. Examination of the history, beliefs, philosophies, rituals, and traditions associated with all three traditions. The significance of trade along the Silk Road and way that economic factors have driven change in these spiritual traditions over time. Emphasis will be on understanding the historical forces which shape religious traditions, be those theological influences from alternate traditions, competition for cultural and financial resources, or shifting political forces.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2214.
  
  • RELG 2800 - Religion, Science, and Technology

    Hours: 3
    Both religion and science respond to the human drive to understand the universe and our place in it, though these two approaches differ in significant ways. Exploring a variety of exciting and thought-provoking intersections among religion, science, and technology. Topics may include: the limits of knowledge and perception, religious and scientific approaches to the nature of consciousness, near-death experiences from spiritual and medical perspectives, artificial intelligence, views of human origins, perspectives on extraterrestrial life, how technological advances change and shape religion, topics in bioethics, and debates about the nature of truth and reality. Drawing perspectives from a variety of traditions (Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Native American, and possibly others), and more clearly defining our own views about human place and purpose in the world.
  
  • RELG 2950 - Religion, Race, and Ethnicity

    Hours: 3
    A critical examination of the significant intersections among religion, race, ethnicity both in the United States and around the world. Confronting important and often controversial issues, challenging ourselves to become more aware of the social and cultural experiences of others, and also deepening awareness of the impact that race and ethnicity might have on their own experience. Topics may include: the KKK in the United States, Syrian refugee crisis, conversion to traditionally ethnic religions, religious nationalism, Nation of Islam, the Rwandan genocide, racial ideologies in Mormon traditions, and anti-Semitism in modern context.
  
  • RELG 3000 - History of Modern Christianity

    Hours: 3
    Christian institutional and intellectual history from the Reformation to the present day. The institutional history of Christianity involves issues such as: How did the Christian church change during and after the Reformation? How did the various denominations of modern Christianity begin, and how did they spread? The intellectual history deals with the important ideas connected with these historical developments, for instance the response of Christian theologians to the Enlightenment, the beliefs of Christian Liberalism and Fundamentalism, and the Liberation Theologies that appeared in the last half of the twentieth century. Balancing these historical and theological issues with detailed examinations of the lives and thought of important Christian theologians.
  
  • RELG 3100 - Paul and His Letters

    Hours: 3
    The letters of Paul and the several letters written in his name after his death, as well as one sermon mistakenly ascribed to Paul, constitute nearly half of the writings of the New Testament. Moreover, Paul is the hero of the Acts of the Apostles. Therefore, Paul, as a man and a theologian, dominates the New Testament and was a major force in the development of Christian thought as we know it. How to understand each letter in its original context and situation, and as gathered into a Pauline collection and then into the Bible. Study of the writings’ use of the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and relationship to their times. What the letters and the Acts have to tell us about Paul himself, what they reveal about developing Christian churches in his time and how they present the theological ideas for which Paul is not only our earliest Christian representative, but also a most popular component of modern Christian thought and practice.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2217.
  
  • RELG 3200 - Life and Teachings of Jesus

    Hours: 3
    A study of the ancient communities of faith that describe the earthly life of Jesus. Identifying the distinctive raw materials that the gospel writers used in their stories and to investigate both the social context and the political history that are reflected in each gospel. The Gospel of Thomas and other extra-canonical gospels such as the Gospel of Mary and Gospel of Judas will also be considered. A distinction between the historical Jesus and the Christ of faith will be central to discussion. Topics of study include biblical scholarship, historical concerns and theological interpretations surrounding the figure of Jesus, and modern challenges to traditional religious faith and practice.
    Notes: Cross-listed with INST 2218.
  
  • RELG 3350 - Ecology and Animals in Global Religions

    Hours: 3
    Religious perspectives on animals and ecology, drawing from the traditions of Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, Judaism, Native American traditions, Islam, and ancient religions. Topics may include: ecotheology, perspectives on animal consciousness, spiritual vegetarianism, the ethics of animal sacrifice, the significance of animals and landscapes in sacred texts and religious art, animals in mythology, and religious debates about whether humans are merely animals or are somehow “special.” More clearly defining our own views about humans, ecology, and the animal world.
  
  • RELG 3550 - Feminist Theory

    Hours: 3
    Intersectional feminist and womanist theologies in social, global, and historic context. Through the writings of broad range of theorists, examining critiques of patriarchal power structures operating both overtly and covertly within Christian and Jewish traditions. Attempting to situate feminist theologies among a variety of liberationist theologies, including those relating to race, poverty, gender and sexuality, colonialism/post-colonialism, and ecology.
  
  • RELG 3600 - Weaving Women’s Mythologies: Ancient and Modern

    Hours: 3
    Examining with a consciousness of gender and with an acute awareness of multiple cultures the international myths, goddesses, and heroines that make up the spinning and weaving of our mythological heritage and cultures. Acquainting ourselves with and gaining a broader understanding and appreciation of the power of myth in our world cultures, specifically the role that female-centered mythologies have played in the status and role of women throughout history. Since the goddess can be known only indirectly, attempting to find her by observing the different forms she takes in rituals, statues, paintings, hymns, buildings, and, most importantly, myths and stories. As the theistic male god is being challenged more and more in today’s scientific world, the attractiveness of recovering the goddess figure as maiden/mother/crone is examined. Stretching our minds about definitions, attributes, and the contributions of myth.
  
  • RELG 3700 - Religion, Gender, and Sexuality

    Hours: 3
    The status and roles that women have played and continue to play in the religions of the world and to historically reconstruct their unrecorded roles. Major texts are examined in an attempt to recover the lost female voices of the great religious traditions: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, pagan, ancient, African and other indigenous. A polymethodic, interdisciplinary and multitraditional focus in which the horizons and perspectives of women’s status, role and image in society are expanded. In grappling with the many questions raised, discovering implications for understanding oneself, whether female or male.
  
  • RELG 3800 - Special Topics in Religion

    Hours: 3
    An advanced seminar on a specific topic in the study of religion. While topics will vary, the purpose remains the same: taking on a specific issue within the field of religious studies and examining it in a seminar format. Reflecting on the topic and its importance at length, leading to a detailed, complex understanding.
     
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • RELG 3900 - Independent Study

    Hours: 1-3
    An opportunity for work in topics of special interest, by initiative of student and agreement of instructor. Intended to guide students in discussion and independent research in areas of philosophical thought.
     
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • RELG 3910 - Experimental Course Topics

    Hours: 1-3
    Experimental course topics.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • RELG 4000 - Seminar in Religion - Writing Intensive

    Hours: 3
    An opportunity to study, in a deep and sustained way, a particular topic in religious studies that is of interest. Developing greater knowledge of that topic, greater expertise as writers and researchers, and opportunities to present work in a public setting. Results in a highly polished piece of writing and a greater facility with the craft of academic work.
     
    Prerequisites: Open to Religion majors only, or permission of instructor.
  
  • RELG 4900 - Internship

    Hours: 1-16
    Available to majors upon submission of documents described on the internship website of the Center for Career and Professional Development. Arranged individually, usually with local organizations, agencies or companies.
     
    Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and department chairperson required.
    Notes: Repeatable to a maximum of 16 hrs.
  
  • SLD 1000 - Exploring Majors, Internships, and Careers

    Hours: 2
    An introductory career development course that assists in understanding how interests, values, skills, personality, and self-concept relate to decisions regarding academic, career and life planning. Topics will include analyzing personal career interests, values, and abilities; surveying and researching occupational interests; practicing the decision-making process; discussing the importance of internships and how to make the most out of the experience; and learning basic job search skills such as developing resumes and cover letters and practicing networking and interviewing.
  
  • SLD 2000 - The Helping Relationship

    Hours: 1
    Designed for those who are applying to be a Resident Assistant. Topics include social issues, communication, mediation, diversity, and counseling skills. Active participation and a willingness to examine one’s own values and leadership style are required. Practical based opportunities to learn about community development, helping skills, social issues/justice, and much more, to become a well-developed student leader.
    Prerequisites: Instructor permission required.
  
  • SLD 2100 - History and Leadership in Fraternities and Sororities

    Hours: 2
    Personal leadership practices within student organizations affiliated with the fraternity/sorority community. Through activities, assignments and discussions, enhancing leadership skills and community involvement.
  
  • SLD 2200 - The Peer Mentor Experience

    Hours: 1
    Peer Mentors in the First Year Experience program. First year student transitions, support resources on campus, and how to successfully connect and coach peers to success. Serving as resources and connections to First Year Seminar instructors and assisting in the implementation of co-curricular programming.
    Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor required.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
  
  • SLD 2300 - Serve the City Practicum: The Role of the Citizen Scholar

    Hours: 1-4
    Local community issues (for example: hunger, immigration, poverty, environmental degradation, and human inequalities) through a social justice lens. Explore our own responsibility as both a citizen and a scholar. Topics of exploration include: decreasing social capital, the soul of a citizen, the call for service, and civic engagement. Actively participating in the community through service-learning residencies at local schools, non-profits, and government agencies. Training in advocacy, leadership, community-organizing, and cross-cultural skills, prior to moving into the non-profit sector. Promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of civic competencies, advocacy skills, and a renewed sense social responsibility.
    Notes: This course is repeatable.
 

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