Jun 29, 2024  
ARCHIVED 2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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ARCHIVED 2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

The courses listed herein  have been approved by the faculty as authorized by the Board of Trustees.  Prerequisites (if any) and the General Education Requirement(s) which each course fulfills (if any) are noted following each course description.

If a course qualifies as an Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) General Education course, then an IAI code appears to the right of the course title.

Current course offerings are available in Merlin.
 

Political Science
  

  • PSC 295 - Research Practicum

    0.50-3.00 credit hours
    Students work in collaboration with faculty on ongoing research. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include recruitment of participants, data collection, data coding and entry, bibliography construction, literature review or statistical analysis. This course is graded pass/no pass. May be taken more than once for up to three total credit hours.

    Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  

  • PSC 312 - Women and American Politics

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: GWS 312 .) Study of women as citizens, candidates and office holders within the American political system. Topics include, but are not limited to, social movements, electoral politics and interest group activities.

    Prerequisite(s): One of PSC 101 , GWS 100  or LEV 121 .
    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 313 - Politics of Race, Gender and Class

    3.00 credit hours
    This course analyzes the interrelationship of race, class and gender to explore how each has shaped the experiences of all people in the United States. It investigates these interlocking categories of experiences and conceptualizes them as interactive systems, not just as separate features of experience. The underlying perspective of this course is that race, class and gender are part of the whole fabric of experience for all groups, not just women and people of color. As such, the course focuses on the institutional or structural basis for race, class and gender relations; the influence of race, class and gender in shaping social and political policy; the extent to which politics affects our understanding of race, class and gender, and how these categories illuminate or obscure our understanding of contemporary political issues.

    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 321 - Model United Nations I

    3.00 credit hours
    Preparation for and participation in the American Model United Nations simulation program. Students represent a pre-selected country during three days of debate/diplomacy on current U.N. topics with students from other Midwest colleges. May be taken twice for credit.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 324 - International Political Economy

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: ECN 324 .) Analyses of the problems and prospects challenging the global community at a time of political and economic change through the study of the rules of industrialized countries, former socialist bloc states and the Third World. Attention is given to the interplay of political and economic power as components of planetary well-being.

    Prerequisite(s): ECN 100 ; or ECN 250  and ECN 252 .
    ACR: Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 333 - International Law

    3.00 credit hours
    The development and use of international law in the conduct of international relations; special emphasis is placed on such current topics as space law, laws of war, law of the sea, diplomatic immunity and human rights.

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 102 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 335 - Constitutional Law

    3.00 credit hours
    Analysis of U.S. Supreme Court opinions, methods of constitutional interpretation and the philosophy and politics of decision-making. Focus is on powers of the judiciary, President and Congress; federal-state relations; and foreign affairs, war, commerce, taxing and spending powers.

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 101 , PSC 103 , PSC 200  and one other 200-level political science course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 336 - Civil Rights, Liberties and Justice

    3.00 credit hours
    Focus on historical and contemporary topics in the area of constitutional litigation, such as free speech, press, religion, reproductive rights, privacy, rights of the criminally accused and discrimination (race, gender and sexual orientation). Constitutional litigation is approached from the viewpoint of politics, economics, history, social movements, value conflicts and leadership. Students assess the leadership role of individuals and groups in promoting and hindering social change.

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 101 .
    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 341 - Classics of Political Philosophy

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PHL 341 .) A survey of the history of Western political thought.

    Prerequisite(s): Any 200-level PSC course or two PHL courses.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 343 - Economic and Social Justice

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PHL 343 .) A brief introduction to the concept of justice, followed by an examination of the alternative views of distributive justice. Alternatives include the various forms of liberalism (contractarianism, libertarianism and utilitarianism), Marxism, communitarianism, feminism and postmodernism.

    Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy, economics, history, political science or sociology and anthropology.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSC 344 - Modern and Postmodern Political Thought: Culture and Power

    3.00 credit hours
    This course examines the relationship between culture and power. Culture infuses and constitutes forms of identity, organization and practice in society, the economy and in politics. It informs the lives of humans in relation to one another and the social system in which they participate. Culture is the process of meaning making that gives rise to attitudes, beliefs, values and norms. The course outlines some of the central theoretical traditions in the study of cultural meaning making, and examines the relationship between processes of meaning making, power and domination in social life. Most of the readings make an effort to examine these issues in the context of specific past and present empirical cases in the United States and other societies.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  
  
  

Psychology
  

  • PSY 100 - Psychology: Science of Behavior

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of the basic concepts, processes, theories and empirical findings concerning the behavior of organisms. Consideration is given to the following topics: physiological and developmental basis of behavior, sensory and perceptual processes, states of consciousness, learning and memory and motivation and emotion, as well as personality, intellectual functioning, psychopathology and social influences on behavior.

    Core: Social Science.
    IAI: S6 900


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 120 - Psychology of Personal Adjustment

    2.00 credit hours
    A survey of various theories of personality and development and their practical implications for effective coping with the demands of everyday life. Students are encouraged to differentiate empirically supported theories from the “pop psychology” that pervades modern media. Topics include stress and coping, identity development and self-assessment, interpersonal relationships, social influence, self-esteem, career development and behavior change. This course does not count toward a major in Psychology.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 200 - Evolutionary Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    This course focuses on the evolution of behavioral and cognitive processes that relate to the adaptation of organisms to challenges of survival and successful reproduction. While the primary emphasis is on humans, consideration of such adaptations in non-human species provides a broader context for considering human evolutionary psychology. Topics for consideration include gender differences in sex and mating; parental investment and parent-offspring conflict; altruism and aggression; food preferences and habitat selection; and the potential integrative influence of evolutionary theory across the field of psychology.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100  or BIO 100  (or above).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 205 - Educational Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    The application of various psychological concepts, theories and experimental findings to an understanding of human behavior in an instructional setting. Group discussions of actual case studies on problems in teaching and education are conducted. The course is required by all states for prospective public school teachers.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 210 - Child Development

    3.00 credit hours
    Theory and research from the field of child development are studied in order to better understand the child’s physical, language, cognitive, social and emotional development from birth to adolescence.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .
    Core: Social Science.
    IAI: S6 903


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 220 - Psychology of Adolescence

    3.00 credit hours
    This course focuses on the developmental tasks of adolescence, such as forming an identity and developing mature relations with peers, family and possible mates. Theory and research in the area of adolescent psychology are examined.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .
    Core: Social Science.
    IAI: S6 904


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 230 - Psychology of Adulthood and Aging

    3.00 credit hours
    The focus of this course is on the developmental tasks of adulthood, beginning with the transition from adolescence to young adulthood and ending with the issues faced by the oldest members of our society. Discussion of theories and research related to identity, adult relationships, sexuality, careers and retirement, health and wellness, the biological process underlying aging and the pursuit of “successful aging.”

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .
    Core: Social Science.
    IAI: S6 905


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 240 - Social Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of the theories and research regarding human social behavior. Discussed in this area are social perception, self-perception, attitudes, social influence, attraction, altruism, aggression, group effects and environmental psychology.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .
    Core: Social Science.
    IAI: S8 900


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 250 - Statistics

    3.00 credit hours
    A course stressing the methods, concepts and logic underlying the statistical evaluation of research data. The course stresses descriptive and inferential statistics, estimation and hypothesis testing and “why” as well as “when” to use various statistical methods. A working knowledge of basic algebraic techniques is necessary. Only one of PSY 250  and BUS 241 /ECN 241  may be taken for credit.

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 118  or higher.
    Core: Mathematics.
    IAI: M1 902


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 255 - Research Design and Experimentation

    3.75 credit hours
    The activities involved in obtaining, accumulating and organizing scientific knowledge through experimentation are stressed in this course. The concepts, logic and methods which serve as a basis for designing and conducting scientific research are presented in lecture and laboratory periods, and are practiced in laboratory exercises and in individual projects. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100  and a minimum grade of C- in PSY 250 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 270 - Industrial Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    This course explores the relationship between individuals and their jobs. Topics include psychological theory and research related to job-design, selection, training, assessment and career development.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 282 - Stress and Coping

    3.00 credit hours
    This course surveys theories and research about stress and coping. Specific topics include the physiology of stress, psychoneuroimmunology, effects of stress on mental health and behavior, coping styles and stress management.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 293 - Careers in Psychology

    1.00 credit hours
    This course focuses on exploring various career options in psychology and related fields. The course will cover the different professional options available in psychology and how to successfully prepare for one’s chosen future career. By collaborating with other students, instructors and resource people both inside and outside of the North Central Community, students will learn about a wide range of careers possible with a major in psychology.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 295 - Research Practicum

    0.50-3.00 credit hours
    Students work in collaboration with faculty on ongoing research. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include recruitment of participants, data collection, data coding and entry, literature review, statistical analysis, etc. This course is graded pass/no pass. Repeatable up to three times or three credit hours.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  

  • PSY 310 - Cultural Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: SOA 310 .) The course considers what we mean by culture, and how taking culture into account affects our knowledge of basic psychology in areas such as human development, the self-concept, gender expectations, as well as our understanding of mental illness. The course focuses on both psychological and anthropological approaches to studying culture and the pros and cons of different approaches.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 ; SOA 105  or any 200-level Psychology course, excluding PSY 250 ; Junior standing.
    ACR: Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 320 - Personality

    3.00 credit hours
    The structure, development, expressions and measurements of the normal personality. The course considers major personality theories, methods of psychotherapy and counseling, ideal models of human living and the mature personality.

    Prerequisite(s): One 200-level Psychology course excluding PSY 250 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 324 - Abnormal Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    The focus of this course is on understanding the causes, diagnostic criteria and treatment of psychological disorders in adults (including such diverse problems as adult depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and schizophrenia). Issues such as diagnostic interviewing, stigma and cultural relativity are also discussed.

    Prerequisite(s): One 200-level Psychology course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 325 - Child Psychopathology

    3.00 credit hours
    The focus of this course is on understanding the causes, diagnostic criteria and treatment of psychological disorders in children and adolescents (including such diverse problems as childhood depression, ADHD, eating disorders and autism). Particular emphasis is placed on treatment modalities that are specific to problems in childhood, such as parent training, play therapy and family therapy.

    Prerequisite(s): One 200-level course in Psychology, excluding PSY 250 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 330 - Community Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    Community Psychology presents a complementary perspective to traditional clinical psychology. Community psychologists focus on preventing mental disorders before they occur, and more generally on promoting mental health. They often address these goals by studying, designing and implementing programs and policies that build communities (schools, neighborhoods, the larger society, etc.) which are more conducive to good mental health. Topics discussed include prevention, program evaluation, creation of settings, psychological conceptions of the environment, social support, community organization and development, empowerment and social action, mutual help, participant research, social justice, social policy and ethics of community intervention.

    Prerequisite(s): One 200-level Psychology course, excluding PSY 250 ; Junior standing.
    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 340 - Learning

    3.75 credit hours
    This course surveys theories of learning from an historical perspective. In addition, developments in methodology and applications of learning are discussed (e.g., behavior modification and programmed instruction). A weekly lab is included. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): One 200-level course in Psychology, excluding PSY 250 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 345 - Cognitive Psychology

    3.75 credit hours
    An examination of how humans acquire, store, retrieve and use knowledge. The course emphasizes an information processing approach to cognition and deals with such topics as perception, selective attention, memory, imagery, problem-solving, reasoning, artificial intelligence and decision-making. A weekly laboratory is included. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 255 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 350 - Clinical Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    This course provides an empirical overview of the various assessment techniques, treatment modalities and ethical and controversial issues in the field of clinical psychology. Students also gain exposure to practical skills used by clinicians in various therapeutic settings. Special consideration is given to helping students practice various counseling techniques, develop self-awareness and apply theories of psychotherapy to their own lives via role plays and experiential exercises.

    Prerequisite(s): One 200-level Psychology course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 360 - Psychological Assessment

    3.00 credit hours
    This course examines theory, construction, evaluation and interpretation of psychological tests. Special emphasis is placed on the ethical and appropriate use of tests and the intersection between testing and contemporary society. Special topics include testing in the areas of intelligence, personality, attitudes, interests and abilities.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 250  and one additional 200-level Psychology course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 380 - History of Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of the major factors providing the roots for psychology, as well as the significant persons and theories which shaped its subsequent development as the scientific approach to the study of behavior and mental processes.

    Prerequisite(s): One HST course and one 200-level Psychology course, excluding PSY 250 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 385 - Health Psychology

    3.00 credit hours
    This course studies how biological, psychological, behavioral and social factors influence health and illness. Specific topics include psychological contributors to illness, behavior change, stress management/coping, disease prevention, weight control, coping with chronic illness and the healthcare delivery system.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100 ; one 200-level Psychology course or one 200-level Biology course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PSY 390 - Seminar

    1.00-3.00 credit hours
    Seminar courses are offered on a variable time schedule and focus on a variety of topics of current or recurrent interest in psychology. The topics chosen depend upon faculty and student interest and are publicized in the course schedule for the terms during which the seminar is offered. Repeatable with different topics.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 100  and one 200-level Psychology course, excluding PSY 250 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  

  • PSY 490 - Seminar

    3.00 credit hours
    An in-depth study of a specific topic or issue in psychology. Students are expected to read and discuss original sources and current literature in psychology. Repeatable with different content.

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 255  and one 300-level Psychology course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  

Religious Studies
  

  • REL 100 - Introduction to World Religions

    3.00 credit hours
    An introduction to the major religions of the world. The primary methodology is phenomenological. Special emphasis is given to the beliefs, rituals, sacred texts and ethical dimension of each religion.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H5 900


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 110 - Introduction to Bible

    3.00 credit hours
    An introductory survey course of the Bible that identifies major historical and cultural forces that influenced the development of Biblical religion and analyzes dominant theological themes in the Biblical texts. May not be taken for credit by a student who has already taken either REL 210  or REL 220 .

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 115 - Christian Ethics

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of the Christian basis for morality and arguments by which specific moral actions are justified. Attention is given to such perennial moral issues as capital punishment, sexuality, biomedical ethics and political obligations.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 125 - Religious Ethics

    3.00 credit hours
    A comparison of ethical experience, sources, norms and methods as interpreted by at least one Eastern religion and one Western religion. Attention is given to specific issues such as marriage and family, war and peace and social responsibility

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 210 - Old Testament

    3.00 credit hours
    An introduction to the Old Testament in its historical setting. Attention is given to the interpretation of the exodus, the monarchy, the prophetic movement, the exile and the postexilic experience.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H5 901


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 215 - The Evolution of God

    3.00 credit hours
    This course examines the origin and development of ancient Israel’s portrayals of God. It traces these beliefs from their origins in the religions of the surrounding ancient Near Eastern cultures through the development of monotheism and the apocalyptic worldview, exploring the various ways in which ancient cultures contrasted divine and human standards of ethical behavior. The course concludes with various early Christian descriptions of the relation of the Christian Messiah to the God of Israel in the writings of the New Testament.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 220 - New Testament

    3.00 credit hours
    An introduction to the New Testament in its historical setting. Attention is given to the social and religious milieu of the early Christian community, the interpretation of the Synoptic Gospels, the theological themes in Paul’s letters and the unique motifs in the Johannine literature.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H5 901


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 222 - Violence, War and Peace in the Bible

    3.00 credit hours
    The course examines traditions from both the Old and New Testaments in regard to issues of violence, war and peace in the biblical texts. Different portrayals of the character of God as warlike and vengeful, as well as beneficent and peace-loving, are examined, in places in dialogue with the religious traditions of the surrounding cultures. The different portrayals of violence and peace in the human community are discussed in light of these depictions of God.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 225 - Urban Ethics and Religion

    3.00 credit hours
    This course examines the relationship between urban problems in America and religious communities and their teachings. Attention is given to the ways religious institutions can be both part of the problem and part of the solution within urban contexts, as well as to specific resources within religious traditions for illuminating and improving urban life. Field trip and guest speakers.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 230 - Gender in the Judeo-Christian Traditions

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: GWS 230.) The study of how gender affects religious practices, beliefs and experiences in Christianity and Judaism.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 235 - Sexuality and Christianity

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as GWS 235 .) An examination of contemporary Christian approaches to sexuality in a dialogue with secular philosophies of sexuality.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 240 - Religion in the United States

    3.00 credit hours
    This course addresses religious diversity in the U.S. by examining several religious traditions. These traditions serve as a lens through which to view issues relevant to contemporary American culture. Particular attention is given to the resources present within each tradition for spiritual transformation within the North American context.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H5 905


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 245 - Religion and Ethics in Film

    3.00 credit hours
    A study of religious and ethical values present in popular film. Attention is given to issues such as race, gender, minority religious traditions, sexual norms and the intersection of religion and politics.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 255 - The Religions of India

    3.00 credit hours
    An exploration of the major indigenous religions of South Asia with particular emphasis on shared concepts such as karma, the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and the transcendence of rebirth (nirvana/moksha). The course traces the evolution of Indian religion from its roots in the Vedas and Upanishads through the development of Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism and Sikhism, and concludes with an examination of “inclusivistic” and “exclusivistic” approaches to religious pluralism in contemporary Indian thought.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 260 - The Religions of China

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of the history, theory and practice of the major religious traditions of China: Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism and the folk traditions that blend all three. The course focuses on the evolution of Chinese religion through a process of mutual influence within a general atmosphere of religious tolerance for sectarian differences.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 261 - Sociology of Religion

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: SOA 261 .) A study of the interplay between religion and society. Attention is given to religion as a system of ideas and ritual patterns as well as a social institution.

    Prerequisite(s): SOA 100  or one course in religious studies.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 265 - The Religions of Japan

    3.00 credit hours
    A survey of the major religious traditions of Japan, including Shinto, Buddhism (Tendai, Shingon, Zen, Pure Land and Nichiren) and the various “New Religions” that have come to prominence in the post-war period (such as Soka Gakkai and Tenrikyo). The theory and practices of specific religions are examined in their historical context, beginning with the early roots of Shinto and concluding with the dramatic changes that have transformed the Japanese religious landscape from the nineteenth century to the present.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 270 - Judaism

    3.00 credit hours
    Beliefs, traditions, ethics and history of Judaism, with special attention to Zionism and the Holocaust.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 280 - Islam and the Middle East

    3.00 credit hours
    Islamic society, culture and theology, with special attention to Turkey, the Arab World, Pakistan, India, Indonesia and the Arab-Israeli conflict. Field trip to nearby Islamic community.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  

  • REL 310 - Death and Dying

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of general topics related to death and dying in America, with a special emphasis on the study of selected ethical and theological issues.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 315 - Buddhism

    3.00 credit hours
    A detailed exploration of the historical evolution of Buddhism from its initial formulation in India to its various incarnations in Southeast, Central and East Asia, as well as its more recent manifestation in North America. Particular attention is given to the distinctions between the three major branches of the religion (Theravada, Mahayana and Tantrayana), as well as to the theory and practice of individual sects such as Zen and Pure Land.

    ACR: Religion and Ethics, Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 325 - Jesus and Buddha in Dialogue: Spiritualities of West and East

    3.00 credit hours
    An exploration of spiritual traditions of Christianity and Buddhism with attention to their similarities and differences arising from their unique cultural backgrounds. The course examines Buddhist and Christian teachings on a variety of issues such as their founders, ritual prayers, love, consumerism and gender.

    Prerequisite(s): REL 100 .
    ACR: Religion and Ethics, Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 330 - Social Justice and Theology

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of those contemporary Christian theologies which are making an impact on the direction of current theological discourse. Attention is given to African-American theology, feminist theology, liberation theology and the contemporary debate on Christology.

    Prerequisite(s): One religion course.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 344 - Religion and the Political Order

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PHL 344 .) A historical survey of primary texts engaging the intersection of religion and political theory, as well as the relationship between political leadership and religious/ethical values. Emphasis is placed upon Western political philosophers shaped within the traditions of Judaism, Christianity and/or Islam, as well as upon the themes of theocracy, civil religion and secularization. Thinkers studied may include Plato, early Christian authors, Eusebius, John Chrysostom, Augustine, Al-Farabi, Maimonides, Averroes, Aquinas, Marsillus of Padua, Reformation authors, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau or De Tocqueville.

    Prerequisite(s): Any two courses in philosophy, religious studies or political Science.
    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 345 - Religion, Ritual and Symbol

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: SOA 345 .) A cross-cultural examination of religious beliefs and religious institutions, and the symbolic meanings and social functions of myths and rituals. Special emphasis on the beliefs and practices of selected indigenous peoples.

    Prerequisite(s): Course work in religion or SOA 105 .
    ACR: Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 350 - Gender and World Religions

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: GWS 350 .) An analysis of feminist thought in non-Western religious traditions. The course discusses women’s redefinition of traditional concepts, rituals and practices in a number of religious traditions across the globe.

    Prerequisite(s): REL 100  or a course in non-Judeo-Christian tradition.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics, Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 355 - The Historical Jesus

    3.00 credit hours
    A systematic review of scholarly attempts to construct an accurate portrait of Jesus of Nazareth as he actually lived and worked in Palestine in the first century of the common era. Special attention is given to the “new quest” for the historical Jesus characterizing the scholarly debate on this topic since 1950.

    Prerequisite(s): REL 110  or REL 220 .
    ACR: Religion and Ethics and Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 360 - Philosophy of Religion

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PHL 360 .) An examination of the basic issues in the philosophy of religion, including the relation of faith and reason, the problem of the existence and nature of God and the nature and significance of religious experience.

    Prerequisite(s): Previous course in philosophy or religion.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 361 - Science and Religion: Conflict or Dialogue?

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PHL 361 .) This course examines the contemporary dialogue between science and religion in relation to different Western and Asian religious traditions. The course considers the implications of recent scientific theories for understanding and assessing the belief systems of various theistic and nontheistic religions.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing, one course in science.
    ACR: Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • REL 375 - Topics in Religious Ethics

    3.00 credit hours
    An intensive study of one topic or theme in contemporary religious ethics through the lens of at least two major religious and cultural traditions. Philosophical and scientific sources, films and/or literature that illuminate the topic may also be examined. Content varies. Possible topics include: Pacifism and Just War, Work and Family, The Environment, Accounts of Human Nature and Human Perfection or Asceticism. Repeatable with different topic.

    Prerequisite(s): Any two courses in philosophy or religious studies.
    ACR: Intercultural.


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Science
  

  • SCI 109 - Science Inquiry

    3.50 credit hours
    The teaching of science by the method of inquiry, which is the foundation of scientific learning. Inquiry utilizes active, conceptually oriented methods of investigation. This course is for students who want to reduce their anxiety toward science by increasing their knowledge of and familiarity with the subject of scientific investigation. It is also for prospective elementary teachers who will teach science as part of their curriculum. Laboratory required.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • SCI 110 - The Science of Energy

    3.50 credit hours
    Physics, Earth Science, Biology and Chemistry will all be investigated with respect to what energy is, how it is generated and how it is used along with the impacts of humankind interation with the world’s resources. Laboratory required.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • SCI 141 - Physical Geology

    3.50 credit hours
    Examines basic geologic principles from a physical perspective. Includes such topics as the formation of rocks and minerals and internal and external processes modifying the earth’s surface. Laboratory required.

    Core: Science (Lab).


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  • SCI 210 - Landmark Discoveries in Natural Science

    3.00 credit hours
    An inquiry into the discovery process in science. Investigates the means by which new scientific theories are created and subsequently gain acceptance. The interaction of science with the larger human community is an important part of this course.

    Prerequisite(s): One of MTH 108 , MTH 118 , MTH 121 , MTH 140  or higher-level math course.
    Core: Science.


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  • SCI 350 - Global Perspectives on Women in Science

    3.00 credit hours
    This course will focus on global issues facing 20th century women in science. Current literature will be used to explore how socioeconomic and cultural differences impact retention of women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. Discussion topics will include the driving forces behind women’s perception of their lack of ability in these disciplines, gender biases facing women and current trends in science education of girls and women. Emphasis will be placed on what advances for women in STEM disciplines have occurred over the last century, and what disparities still need to be resolved.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing.
    ACR: Intercultural.


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  • SCI 432 - Science: Fact or Fiction

    Outlines current views on the scientific method and questions whether science, as we know it, was an inevitable outcome of human intellect. The concept of science as a profession is also explored. What are the accepted standards of conduct within the scientific community? What is the relationship between the scientific community and the rest of society? How can scientists become more active in helping society recognize faulty science or psuedoscience? Specific case studies are used to investigate these questions and to discuss the ethical issues facing scientific researchers.

    Prerequisite(s): Six and one half credit hours in science (including one laboratory course).
    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.

Shimer Great Books
  

  • SGB 111 - Fundamental Concepts of Art and Music

    3.00 credit hours
    An investigation of the elements and forms of the musical and visual arts, primarily dedicated to the tasks of active listening and viewing. No previous training in music or facility at drawing or painting is presumed.


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  • SGB 112 - Literature of the Ancient World

    3.00 credit hours
    An introduction to imaginative literature, featuring poetry, epic, drama and fiction from ancient to medieval times and exploring a variety of approaches to narrative and the use of language to create an imagined reality. Selected works of literary criticism are also included.


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  • SGB 113 - Literature in the Modern World

    3.00 credit hours
    A continuation of the introduction to imaginative literature begun in SGB 112 , drawing on, poetry, drama and novels from modern to contemporary times. (Designated Writing Course.)


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  • SGB 121 - Classical Foundations of Logic and Mathematics

    3.00 credit hours
    A study of the foundations of mathematics and logic from ancient Greece to early modern Europe. Students are presented with various methods and systems for reasoning logically, geometrically and arithmetically, and with fundamental questions concerning the bases of human thought and knowledge.


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  • SGB 122 - Modern Foundations of Logic and Mathematics

    3.00 credit hours
    A study of landmark works in mathematics and logic from early modern Europe to the contemporary world. Includes exploration of the power and limitations of logical and mathematical systems.

    Prerequisite(s): SGB 121 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • SGB 131 - Premodern Science and the Chemical Revolution

    3.00 credit hours
    Examination of historical answers to the question, “What is the world made of?” from the ancient Greek philosophers through the birth of modern chemistry. The focus is on several key concepts, such as weight, structure and complexity in an attempt to understand the material basis of the world.


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  • SGB 132 - Evolution, Classification and Animal Behavior

    3.00 credit hours
    Exploration of theories of phylogeny and the development of organic diversity. The concept of evolution provides groundwork for this inquiry into biological organization. The relationships between evolution, the environment and animal behavior are foci for investigation and discussion.


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  • SGB 133 - Classical Physics, Motion and Light

    3.00 credit hours
    Exploration of classical physics: continuous mechanics and the nature of light, featuring the development of the theories of falling bodies, gravitation and optical phenomena. The investigation of physical theories includes exploration of the nature of scientific explanation.

    Prerequisite(s): SGB 122 , SGB 131  and completion of the Mathematics Competency Exam.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
 

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