Apr 27, 2024

ARCHIVED 2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog

ARCHIVED 2020-2021 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.

Current course offerings are available in Merlin.

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Music Ensembles Music ensembles are open to all North Central students regardless of major. An audition may be required.
	MUEN 113 - Concert Winds 0.00-0.50 credit hours Concert Winds performs a wide variety of music, including new music and works from the standard repertoire. Concert performances are scheduled both on and off campus. Auditions are held for placement in the ensemble. Prerequisite(s): Ability to play standard band instrument. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	MUEN 114 - Chamber Orchestra 0.00-0.50 credit hours The study and performance of string orchestra and chamber orchestra literature. Each term culminates in one or more public performances. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	MUEN 120 - Big Band 0.00-0.50 credit hours Large jazz ensemble performing classic and contemporary jazz arrangements. Performs a minimum of three concerts per year on campus. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	MUEN 121 - Jazz Combo 0.00-0.50 credit hours Faculty-led jazz chamber ensemble performing classic and contemporary jazz repertoire set for rhythm section, horns and/or vocalists. Performs a minimum of three concerts per year on campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition required. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	MUEN 122 - Jazz Chamber Ensemble 0.00-0.50 credit hours Students form their own jazz ensemble and select an instructor from the jazz faculty. Prerequisite(s): Audition required. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	MUEN 123 - Vocal Jazz Ensemble 0.00-0.50 credit hours Vocal ensemble of 8-12 voices performing classic and contemporary jazz arrangements. Performs a minimum of three concerts per year on campus. Prerequisite(s): Audition required. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	MUEN 190 - Chamber Ensemble 0.00-0.50 credit hours A variety of instrumental and vocal chamber ensembles, such as brass and woodwind quartets, string quartet or a cappella groups. Changes annually. Click here for the schedule of classes.
Neuroscience
	NEUR 100 - Introduction to Neuroscience 4.00 credit hours An introduction to the structure and function of the nervous system and human brain. Topics include brain anatomy, function of nerve cells, neural communication, neuroscience methods, sensory and motor behavior, systems, and sleep. Gateway course. Laboratory required. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Sciences. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience 4.00 credit hours An examination of the manner in which genetic, environmental, biochemical, and physiological factors contribute to the neurological basis of behavior. Special attention is given to neural contributions of reproduction, psychopharmacology, fear, learning, stress, ingestion, communication, memory, and psychiatric disorders. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 100 . iCon(s): Examining Health. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior 4.00 credit hours An examination of the dynamic relationship between how drugs act on the brain and behavior. Topics include the properties of drug action, differentiating drug use and drug dependence, physical versus psychological dependence, as well as the legal and social implications of drug use. A range of legal and illegal drugs such as stimulants, depressants, alcohol, opiates, hallucinogens, and pharmaceutical drugs are investigated. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 100 or PSYC 100 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Being Human, Examining Health. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 295 - Research Practicum 1.00-6.00 credit hours Students work in collaboration with faculty on ongoing research. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include collection or creation of materials, recruitment of participants, data collection, data coding and entry, literature review, statistical analysis, poster or oral presentation preparation. This course is graded pass/no pass. May be taken more than once for up to six credit hours. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 100 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 297 - Internship 0.00-12.00 credit hours Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply neuroscience concepts to broader social issues and system. Students explore career options within neuroscience and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. Course work includes required hours in the field and written assignments. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 100 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 300 - Advanced Behavioral Neuroscience 4.00 credit hours Students investigate the neuronal underpinnings of behavior in organisms ranging from invertebrates to humans. Material focuses on the relationship between nervous system function and the resulting behavioral output in neurological and developmental disorders. These disorders are analyzed through various lenses incorporating primary literature with classical and cutting edge neuroscience models and techniques. This course requires an intensive, vertebrate-based laboratory. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 200 ; Concurrent enrollment in NEUR 301 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 301 - Neuroethics in Behavioral Neuroscience 1.00 credit hours Advances in neuroscience have brought about several ethical questions surrounding the utilization and implementation of techniques and discoveries in vertebrates and humans. Accompanying the NEUR 300 laboratory, students are educated and trained in the ethical use of vertebrates in research. An examination of the ethical boundaries when utilizing novel and experimental techniques to treat developmental and neurological disorders will supplement NEUR 300 course material. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 200 ; Concurrent enrollment in NEUR 300 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Ethical Dimensions. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 310 - Advanced Molecular Neuroscience 4.00 credit hours Examination of the cellular and molecular underpinnings of neuronal communication in organisms ranging from invertebrates to humans. Topics include the fundamental properties of excitable membranes, synaptic transmission, and neuronal integration. These topics are investigated utilizing classical and cutting edge molecular neuroscience techniques in this vertebrate based laboratory intensive course. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 210 and NEUR 200 ; Concurrent enrollment in NEUR 311 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 311 - Neuroethics in Molecular Neuroscience 1.00 credit hours Neuroethics studies the moral issues arising in connection with advances in neuroscience. Examination of the ethical boundaries when utilizing novel and experimental molecular techniques in both vertebrates and humans. Course material complements NEUR 310 . In the NEUR 310 laboratory, students are educated and trained in the ethics of molecular neuroscience research. Prerequisite(s): NEUR 200 ; Concurrent enrollment in NEUR 310 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Ethical Dimensions. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 490 - Seminar 4.00 credit hours An in-depth study of a specific topic in neuroscience. Students are expected to read and discuss original sources and current literature in neuroscience, culminating in an APA style paper. Repeatable with different content. Capstone. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 255 and NEUR 200 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 495 - Neuroscience in the Community 1.00-4.00 credit hours A community engagement project in neuroscience that serves as the culminating neuroscience curriculum experience. Students are expected to arrange the community engagement experience, design materials for the engagement experience and analyze the effectiveness of this experience. A final paper (traditional APA-style research report or audience-specific research report) incorporating primary literature, appropriate quantitative or qualitative analysis of the effectiveness of the experience, and reflection is required. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation. Capstone. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 255 and NEUR 200 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Community Engaged Learning. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 497 - Internship 0.00-12.00 credit hours Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply neuroscience concepts to broader social issues and systems. Students explore career options within neuroscience, and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. Course work includes required hours in the field, written assignments, and a substantial APA style literature review/hypothesis paper directly related to this experience. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation. Capstone. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 255 and NEUR 200 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 498 - Senior Thesis 1.00-4.00 credit hours Students work in collaboration with faculty to produce a culminating research experience. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include creation of materials or agents, recruitment of participants, animal care, data collection, data coding and entry, literature review, statistical analysis, poster or oral presentation preparation. The senior thesis culminates in a APA style research paper. Students earning credit for a capstone experience must complete a minimum of four credit hours, with the option of spreading credit hours over two semesters. To fulfill the capstone experience, students must complete a minimum of four credit hours from a single capstone designation. Capstone. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 255 , NEUR 200 and NEUR 295 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	NEUR 499 - Independent Study 1.00-12.00 credit hours Students explore a topic of interest in an individualized learning situation under the supervision of a faculty member. Coursework includes significant critical reading, writing, and discussion of primary resources (no collection of data). Prerequisite(s): PSYC 255 and NEUR 200 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
Philosophy
	PHIL 100 - Introduction to Philosophy 4.00 credit hours An examination of basic questions in philosophy, such as how we can know anything, whether God exists, how moral judgments can be justified, whether people have souls and whether people have free will. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Being Human, Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 110 - Ethics 4.00 credit hours An examination of alternative bases for morality and the arguments by which moral claims are justified. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions, Community Engaged Learning. iCon(s): Being Human, Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 210 - Professional Ethics 4.00 credit hours Professional ethics in selected career fields including law, business and biomedicine. Students may apply basic concepts to the career of their choice, relate their personal ethics to professional ethics and become better informed consumers of professional services. This course begins with an examination of the alternative bases for making moral judgments. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Innovating the World. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 213 - Health Care Ethics 4.00 credit hours Considers fundamental ethical questions concerning health care and applies ethics to contemporary debates such as abortion. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Examining Health. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 225 - Environmental Ethics 4.00 credit hours (Same as: ENVI 225 .) After a brief examination of philosophical ethical frameworks, the following will be considered: the history of environmental ethics; the problem of the “moral status” of nonhuman animals and other aspects of nature: the environment and “the good life,” ethical issues related to population growth, sustainability, diminishing/vanishing resources and the use of cost benefit analysis in environmental policy. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Sustaining Our World. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 230 - Logic and Critical Thinking 4.00 credit hours An examination of inductive and deductive reasoning, formal and informal fallacies and rules and procedures for evaluating arguments. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Quantitative Analysis. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 235 - Existentialism 4.00 credit hours An introduction to existentialism as a 19th and 20th century philosophical and literary movement. Authors discussed typically include Dostoevsky, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, and Camus. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 240 - Philosophy of Law 4.00 credit hours An introduction to the concept of law, including such topics as the nature of law, liberty and law, justice, legal responsibility, punishment and theories of legal interpretation. Prerequisite(s): POLS 203 or one Philosophy course. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequity. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 250 - Philosophy of Mind 4.00 credit hours An introduction to the philosophy of mind, including such topics as the mind/body problem, the nature of consciousness, perception, and theories of mental content. Special attention is paid to philosophical questions that arise in psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive science. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities. iCon(s): Being Human, Examining Health, Innovating the World. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 260 - Ancient and Medieval Philosophy 4.00 credit hours Part one of the History of Philosophy sequence: Ancient Greece through the 16th century. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions, Global Understanding. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 265 - Modern Philosophy 4.00 credit hours Part two of the History of Philosophy sequence: The 17th through 19th centuries. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Being Human, Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 270 - Aesthetics 4.00 credit hours An examination of aesthetic experience, the norms which govern aesthetc judgment and the significance of the idea of beauty in our experience of art and nature. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Arts, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Being Human, Challenging Inequity, Examining Health, Experiencing Place. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 280 - Philosophy of Science 4.00 credit hours An inquiry into the nature of scientific evidence, laws, explanations and theories, as well as the nature of the relationship between the natural and social sciences. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities. iCon(s): Being Human, Innovating the World. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 290 - Topics in Philosophy 4.00 credit hours An examination of questions or issues of contemporary philosophic interest. Check course schedule for current topic. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 299 - Independent Study 1.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 310 - Ethical Theory 4.00 credit hours An examination of topics in contemporary and/or classical ethical theory. Course may focus on key figures in ethical theory or issues in normative ethics and metaethics. Topics have included virtue ethics, feminist ethics and relationships between normative ethical theory and social or natural sciences. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 320 - Feminist Philosophy 4.00 credit hours Examines feminist contributions to and criticisms of philosophy. Students are exposed to both historical and contemporary figures in feminist philosophy, including Mary Wollstonecraft, Simone De Beauvoir, bell hooks, Audre Lorde, and Judith Butler. Topics include women’s rights, feminist political and ethical theory, the role of gender in identity formation, and gender at the intersection of race and class. Prerequisite(s): One Philosophy or Gender and Sexuality course. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequity, Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 340 - Social and Political Philosophy 4.00 credit hours An investigation of political philosophy in the Western philosophical tradition. Students question how we ought to live together, organize social life, and structure our political institutions. Topics covered include individual freedom, the distribution of property, ideal forms of government, race, gender, and class. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequality, Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 360 - Philosophy of Religion 4.00 credit hours 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. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 363 - Science and Religion: Conflict or Dialogue? 4.00 credit hours An examination of 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 non-theistic religions. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 370 - 20th Century Philosophy 4.00 credit hours Part three of the History of Philosophy sequence:The Analytical and Continental Traditions from the 20th century through the present day. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 380 - Knowledge and Reality 4.00 credit hours An examination of such topics as theories of knowledge, truth and justification of belief, the problem of skepticism, the mind-body problem, the problem of universals and theories of being. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 390 - Topics in Philosophy 4.00 credit hours An advanced examination of questions or issues of contemporary philosophic interest. Check course schedule for current topic. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 399 - Independent Study 1.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 490 - Philosophy Capstone Seminar 4.00 credit hours Examination of a major philosopher or central problem in one of the areas of philosophy such as philosophy of mind, metaphysics, epistemology or value theory. Prerequisite(s): One 200-level Philosophy course; Junior standing. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Writing Intensive. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 497 - Internship 0.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHIL 499 - Independent Study 1.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.
Physics
	PHYS 105 - Introductory Musical Acoustics 4.00 credit hours Physics of sound, musical instruments and musical recordings. Production and propagation of sound waves, physical principles underlying pitch and timbre of musical instruments and the human voice, digital audio. Laboratory required. Prerequisite(s): High School Algebra II and ability to read music. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Sciences. iCon(s): Being Human. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 110 - Astronomy 4.00 credit hours Celestial phenomena, the sun and solar system and the observable universe with emphasis on astronomy as a scientific activity relevant to the perception and comprehension of our world. Laboratory required, includes observational techniques and physical principles relevant to astronomy and astrophysics. Prerequisite(s): Precalculus (Algebra & Trigonometry) competence. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Sciences. iCon(s): Experiencing Place. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 131 - Physics I (Non-Calculus) 4.00 credit hours Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, conservation laws, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of PHYS 131 and PHYS 161 . Prerequisite(s): Precalculus (Algebra & Trigonometry) competence. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 132 - Physics II (Non-Calculus) 4.00 credit hours Oscillations, waves, sound, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of PHYS 132 and PHYS 162 . Prerequisite(s): PHYS 131 and Precalculus (Algebra & Trigonometry) competence. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 160 - Einstein and Heisenberg: Physics of the Fast and the Small 2.00 credit hours Introduction to the special theory of relativity: Galilean relativity, space-time diagrams, Lorentz transformations, relativistic collisions and conservation of four-momentum. Introduction to the principles of quantum physics, Heisenberg’s matrix mechanics, Pauli’s spin matrices. Prerequisite(s): Precalculus (Algebra & Trigonometry) competence. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 161 - Physics I: Mechanics and Heat 4.00 credit hours Newton’s Laws of motion, energy conservation, rotational motion, thermodynamics. Laboratory required, includes experimental physics and an introduction to computational modeling. Credit may be earned for only one of PHYS 131 and PHYS 161. Prerequisite(s): CSCE 160 ; MATH 151 or concurrent enrollment. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Sciences. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 162 - Physics II: Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics 4.00 credit hours Oscillations, waves, electricity, magnetism, optics. Laboratory required, includes experimental physics and computational modeling. Credit may be earned for only one of PHYS 132 and PHYS 162. Prerequisite(s): CSCE 160 , MATH 151 and PHYS 161 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 200 - Electronic Instrumentation for Scientists 4.00 credit hours Survey of electronics with focus on application to scientific instrumentation. Topics include digital principles, combinational and sequential logic, digital applications, DC and AC circuits, discrete semiconductors, operational amplifiers. Focus is on applied learning in the laboratory. Laboratory required. Prerequisite(s): MATH 151 ; PHYS 132 or PHYS 162 or concurrent enrollment. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 211 - Engineering Statics 4.00 credit hours Classical mechanics with application to engineering problems. Topics include equivalent systems of forces, centroids, analysis of trusses and frames, machines and forces due to friction, virtual work, hydrostatic pressure. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 161 and MATH 152 ; MATH 253 or concurrent enrollment. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 251 - Mechanics of Materials 4.00 credit hours Analysis of stress and deformation of materials. Applications to the design of machine and structural elements subjected to static, dynamic and repeated loads. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 211 and MATH 152 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 263 - Physics III: Quantum Physics 4.00 credit hours An introduction to quantum physics. Quantum phenomena, the Schrodinger equation, analysis of one-dimensional potentials, the hydrogen atom and the electronic structure of multi-electron atoms, spin-orbit coupling. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 162 ; MATH 253 or concurrent enrollment. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 264 - Experimental Quantum Physics 2.00 credit hours An exploration of the experimental foundations of quantum physics. Selected experiments from the photoelectric effect, electron impact spectroscopy, Bragg scattering and x-ray diffraction, single photon two-slit experiment, molecular spectroscopy, muon decay and others. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 263 or concurrent enrollment. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 300 - Computational Mechanics 4.00 credit hours Newton’s Laws, projectile and charged particle kinematics, conservation laws and oscillations. Advanced methods in mechanics. Mathematical methods introduced as needed. Laboratory required, focuses on computation and modeling. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 162 and MATH 253 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 310 - Data Acquisition with LabVIEW 2.00 credit hours Computer-assisted measurement and automation of experiments using the LabVIEW graphical programming platform. Hands-on experience through laboratory exercises and projects. Laboratory required. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 200 , MATH 151 and CSCE 160 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 320 - Physics of Solids 2.00 credit hours Properties of crystalline solids. Crystal structure, reciprocal lattice, x-ray diffraction, electrical conduction, band theory, semiconductors and semiconductor devices. Other topics may include thermal properties, magnetic properties of solids. Prerequisite(s): MATH 151 ; PHYS 263 or CHEM 345 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 340 - Thermal Physics I 2.00 credit hours Interrelationships among temperature, energy, entropy, and other properties of a physical system, examined at the macroscopic level using the tools of thermodynamics. Topics covered include equations of state, the laws of thermodynamics, energy, enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs energy, Maxwell relations, phase equilibrium. Laboratory required. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 132 or PHYS 162 ; MATH 151 ; CHEM 122 or CHEM 125 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 341 - Thermal Physics II 2.00 credit hours Interrelationships among temperature, energy, entropy and other properties of matter, examined at the microscopic level using the tools of statistical mechanics. Topics include macrostates and microstates, entropy, Boltzmann and quantum distribution functions; selected applications from paramagnetism, Einstein solids, blackbody radiation and others. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 263 or CHEM 345 ; PHYS 340 or CHEM 340 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 391 - Seminar I 1.00 credit hours Professional development topics such as ethics, job seeking skills and safety. Students, faculty and guest presenters discuss research results in the format of a scientific meeting. Prerequisite(s): 16 credit hours in Physics. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 392 - Seminar II 1.00 credit hours Students learn to search the scientific literature, read primary literature and orally present a journal article. Students, faculty and guest presenters discuss research results in the format of a scientific meeting. Prerequisite(s): 16 credit hours in Physics. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 395 - Research 1.00-16.00 credit hours Individual laboratory investigation of a current problem in physics or a closely related field. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 410 - Advanced Experimental Physics 2.00 credit hours An exploration of advanced experimental techniques and concepts in physics. Experiments selected from optical spectroscopy, x-ray spectroscopy, magnetic resonance, vacuum techniques, solid-state physics, laser physics, nuclear physics. Laboratory required. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 200 , PHYS 263 and PHYS 264 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 420 - Electromagnetic Theory 4.00 credit hours The theory of electromagnetism, including electrostatics, magnetostatics and electrodynamics. May include applications to electromagnetic waves, guided waves and transmission lines, plasmas, radiation theory and relativistic electrodynamics. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 162 and MATH 253 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 440 - Quantum Mechanics 4.00 credit hours The physical interpretation and mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics. Schrodinger equation, one-dimensional and three-dimensional potentials, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom, operator methods, matrix mechanics, Dirac notation and approximation methods. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 263 or CHEM 345 ; MATH 253 and MATH 300 . Click here for the schedule of classes.
	PHYS 490 - Topics 2.00-4.00 credit hours Advanced topics in physics, such as biophysics, astrophysics and cosmology, particles and nuclei, general relativity, advanced mechanics. Prerequisite(s): Varies by topic. Click here for the schedule of classes.
Political Science
	POLS 100 - Civic Well-Being 2.00 credit hours How do local, state and United States’ governments function, or not? How does citizen participation in the democratic process work? Most importantly, how does civic well-being affect, and is affected by, other measures of well-being (emotional, physical, financial, etc.)? This course introduces students to the ways in which understanding and participating in democratic processes contributes to a deeper connection to oneself and broader communities, while creating a healthier, collective, civil society at the same time. This course does not count toward a major or minor in Political Science. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Well-Being. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 101 - The American Political System 4.00 credit hours An introduction to the fundamental ideas, actors, and institutions that make up the American political system. We examine the legal and structural basis of our government, evaluate the institutions that carry out its day-to-day functions, and analyze the role the individual citizen can play in influencing governmental policy. For each subject, we engage with some of the leading perspectives in political science; we also incorporate current events and our personal experiences. This course also includes a community-engaged learning component, allowing students the opportunity to put into practice the theories they have learned in the classroom. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures, Community Engaged Learning. iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 102 - Introduction to International Relations 4.00 credit hours An introductory look at the variety of concepts, issues, debates, ideologies, and theoretical perspectives that have traditionally defined the discipline of International Relations. In particular, the course examines core issues such as international conflict, cooperation, globalization, international law, human rights, economic development, poverty, and terrorism. A great deal of time is devoted to exploring the dominant theoretical perspective of the field including realism, liberalism, Marxism, constructivism, and feminism. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, Global Understanding. iCon(s): Thinking Globally Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 200 - Scope and Practice of Political Science 4.00 credit hours What does it mean to think, research, and write like a political scientist? Using rigorous methods and theoretical approaches, political science examines curiosities about the institutions, practices, and relations that shape the political world. This course introduces students to the scientific study of politics, covering the basics of research design and practice including the ways in which data and theory intersect, and how political scientists conceptualize, measure, and test relationships of interest in the discipline. For example, why are some social movements more effective than others? What explains the rise in partisan polarization over time? What are the causes of war? By the end of the term, students approach questions like these using the scientific method. Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, Writing Intensive. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 203 - Law, Politics and Society 4.00 credit hours Traditional approaches to studying the law emphasize skills like advocating for a client or drafting a legal document. This class takes a different approach by providing an exploration of law’s relationship to contemporary society. To do this, we will consider how law shapes, and is shaped by, the political, social, and cultural contexts in which it exists. This course examines a variety of topics, including: the development of the legal system of the United States, the varied approaches to studying the “law,” and the relationship between those who make, adjudicate, and directly experience the law in everyday life. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequity. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 204 - Political and Legal Dimensions Disasters 4.00 credit hours Natural and manmade disasters are a perennial feature of political life. When a non-routine event happens (from a hurricane to a terrorist attack to a nuclear accident), political and legal actors and institutions must activate in order to prepare for, respond to, and explain what happened. The costs imposed by disasters have always been high, and these events, while relatively low on the public’s agenda, are constant sources of challenge for politics at all levels. This course will introduce students to the political and legal dimensions of disasters, including: How does politics respond to disasters? What are the main institutions that engage with disaster politics and policies? Who is responsible for harms caused by a disaster, and how has the law evolved in the area of disaster politics? Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Sustaining Our World. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 210 - Music and Politics 2.00 credit hours This course encourages students to explore the interaction between music and the political world. Students examine issues of race, class, sexual orientation, gender, censorship, violence and power, focusing primarily on Western music genres such as hip-hop, rock, punk, folk and country. Students also explore refined music (specifically opera) and electronic dance music in an international context. Students have the opportunity to interact with this material to increase appreciation for the myriad ways that music and politics are mutually interdependent. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 211 - The Politics of the Presidency 4.00 credit hours From George Washington to Donald Trump, we examine of the history and evolution of the Office of the President, as well as the roles and approaches of the officeholder. We take a theoretical, rather than historical, approach to understand presidential selection and powers, the president’s relationships with other actors, and the role of the electorate in presidential politics. This examination lends itself to answer one central questions: Have U.S presidents become the Green Lantern? Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences. iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 212 - Congress: the Least Popular Branch 4.00 credit hours As the branch with the most constitutional authority, and the lowest approval rating, Congress is misunderstood. The Least Popular Branch provides a thorough introduction to the beautifully flawed U.S. Congress. Examination of themes in the literature on Congress include: the development of Congress, member’s motivation for reelection, congressional elections, the role of parties and committees, extreme polarization, the changing legislative process, and the relationship between Congress and the branches of government and other actors. Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences. iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 215 - Public Opinion and Political Behavior 4.00 credit hours This course examines public opinion and political behavior in contemporary American politics. The course will cover topics like: how to conceptualize and measure public opinion, where opinions “come from,” the nature of opinion about several salient issues, and whether public opinion affects policy making or political behavior. Students will reflect on debates about the “competence” of the public and how much public opinion should affect public policy, as well as become savvier consumers of public opinion data. Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 220 - First Ladies: Symbol of American Womanhood 4.00 credit hours A theoretical examination of the evolving role of the first lady from party hostess to policy advocate. While discussions of first ladies have often been relegated to internal dynamics of their relationships with their husbands, redecorating, and clothing, we will dive into the nuanced job of the first lady by reading the scholarship, while scant, on the progressing role of the first lady. Specific attention is paid to particular first ladies who have made significant impacts in the way the first lady is expected to behave. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 221 - Comparative Politics 4.00 credit hours An introductory look at the concepts, ideologies, and methodology that define the field of Comparative Politics. The course will provide a comparative analysis of the various institutions of governance around the world and how those institutions structure state behavior. Comparative Politics seeks to understand different forms of government by comparing them to one another. We will also investigate key topics such as the state, political culture, ethnicity, nationalism, authoritarianism & totalitarianism, democracy, development, globalization and political violence. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, Global Understanding. iCon(s): Thinking Globally. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 222 - American Foreign Policy 4.00 credit hours This course offers a general introduction to the history, traditions and theories of American foreign policy. The course highlights the evolution of American foreign policy since World War II exploring the crucial decisions that shaped the current geopolitical environment. We will examine the ways domestic politics, public opinion, the media, presidential leadership and other factors have impact the conduct of American foreign policy. Specific emphasis is placed on contemporary challenges facing the United States, such as terrorism, nuclear proliferation, the rise of China, North Korea, and Russia. Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, Global Understanding. iCon(s): Thinking Globally. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 224 - Political Psychology 2.00 credit hours This course offers an introduction to the application of psychological theories and methodology to the study of government and politics. Topics include elite decision-making, mass political attitudes, voting behavior, genetics, and psychophysiological approaches to political science research. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 230 - Mock Trial I: Techniques and Procedures 4.00 credit hours Introduction to the rules, procedures, and case materials of the American Mock Trial Association in preparation for invitational, regional, and national competition. Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 231 - Mock Trial II: Competition Practicum 1.00 credit hours Preparation for and participation in Mock Trial tournament competition. Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 290 - Topics in Political Science 2.00-4.00 credit hours An examination of a current topical political issue in politics explored in a seminar style format. Students conduct an analysis of the topic using primary documents and scholarly sources. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 295 - Research Practicum 1.00-4.00 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 four total credit hours. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 297 - Internship 0.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 299 - Independent Study 1.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 300 - Great Decisions in International Politics 4.00 credit hours A comparative case study analysis of the decision making process for three seminal events in international politics. The course explores the causal dynamics behind the origins of World War I, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the 2003 Iraq War decision. Students learn the core components of qualitative research through the collection and review of archive research materials. The objective of the course is to develop the knowledge and skill set for evaluating foreign policy decision making in theory and practice. Prerequisite(s): POLS 102 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, Global Understanding. iCon(s): Thinking Globally. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 310 - The American Electoral Process 4.00 credit hours It’s complicated. However, by emphasizing how American political institutions shape the behavior of voters, candidates, parties, interest groups, and the media, students come to understand the outcomes of elections in the United States. Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequity, Engaging Civic Life. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 312 - Women in American Politics 4.00 credit hours If women have now surpassed men in both number of total Americans as well as percent of the electorate that votes, why do women comprise such a small portion of all of those who hold political power? The position of women in the American political system has evolved over time from being left out of the Constitution, to the suffrage movement, to the equal rights movement, the Lily Ledbetter Act, to Hillary Clinton’s historic run for the presidency. Nonetheless, there are structural components of the American society and political system that have created disequilibrium between men and women. We examine the institutional, psychological, economic, and sociocultural causes and effects of such disequilibrium. Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequity. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 321 - Model United Nations 2.00 credit hours The course explores the procedural and political dynamics of the United Nations as it confronts the political, economic and cultural challenges facing the international community. The class provides an introduction to the history and structure of the United Nations as well as an intense case study of the country assigned to the NCC delegation. Students will learn to be diplomats and advocate for the interests of their country. The course culminates with students participating in the National Model United Nations simulation in New York City. Prerequisite(s): POLS 102 . iCon(s): Thinking Globally. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 333 - International Law 4.00 credit hours An exploration of the basic concepts and problems of public international law and of the international legal system. The course will explore the central question of whether international law is useful for ordering the international system. Topics will include the sources and subjects of international law, the jurisdiction of states, the use of force, the relationship between international law and the internal law of states, the international law of human rights and international criminal law. Prerequisite(s): POLS 102 . iCon(s): Thinking Globally. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 335 - Constitutional Law 4.00 credit hours Introduction to constitutional law, with an emphasis on the U.S. Supreme Court’s interpretation of Articles I, II, and III. This means that the course will cover how the nation’s Court of last resort has helped shape the powers of and constraints on the three branches of our federal government. Students will also discuss and analyze topics like: the development of law surrounding the separation of powers, congressional power over the commerce clause, and the creation and demise of the concept of substantive due process. Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 or POLS 203 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 336 - Rights, Liberties and Justice 4.00 credit hours Introduction to civil liberties and civil rights. We will focus primarily on the decisions of the Supreme Court in areas of religion, speech, privacy, criminal procedure and discrimination. Along the way, we will discuss the historical development of constitutional civil rights and liberties and the politics of Supreme Court decision-making. Students will learn the major legal doctrines governing civil liberties and civil rights, as well as develop a better understanding of the process of Supreme Court decision-making. Prerequisite(s): POLS 101 or POLS 203 . Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences, U.S. Power Structures. iCon(s): Challenging Inequity. Click here for the schedule of classes.
	POLS 397 - Internship 0.00-12.00 credit hours Click here for the schedule of classes.

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Course Descriptions

MUEN 113 - Concert Winds

MUEN 114 - Chamber Orchestra

MUEN 120 - Big Band

MUEN 121 - Jazz Combo

MUEN 122 - Jazz Chamber Ensemble

MUEN 123 - Vocal Jazz Ensemble

MUEN 190 - Chamber Ensemble

NEUR 100 - Introduction to Neuroscience

NEUR 200 - Behavioral Neuroscience

NEUR 280 - Drugs and Behavior

NEUR 295 - Research Practicum

NEUR 297 - Internship

NEUR 300 - Advanced Behavioral Neuroscience

NEUR 301 - Neuroethics in Behavioral Neuroscience

NEUR 310 - Advanced Molecular Neuroscience

NEUR 311 - Neuroethics in Molecular Neuroscience

NEUR 490 - Seminar

NEUR 495 - Neuroscience in the Community

NEUR 497 - Internship

NEUR 498 - Senior Thesis

NEUR 499 - Independent Study

PHIL 100 - Introduction to Philosophy

PHIL 110 - Ethics

PHIL 210 - Professional Ethics

PHIL 213 - Health Care Ethics

PHIL 225 - Environmental Ethics

PHIL 230 - Logic and Critical Thinking

PHIL 235 - Existentialism

PHIL 240 - Philosophy of Law

PHIL 250 - Philosophy of Mind

PHIL 260 - Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

PHIL 265 - Modern Philosophy

PHIL 270 - Aesthetics

PHIL 280 - Philosophy of Science

PHIL 290 - Topics in Philosophy

PHIL 299 - Independent Study

PHIL 310 - Ethical Theory

PHIL 320 - Feminist Philosophy

PHIL 340 - Social and Political Philosophy

PHIL 360 - Philosophy of Religion

PHIL 363 - Science and Religion: Conflict or Dialogue?

PHIL 370 - 20th Century Philosophy

PHIL 380 - Knowledge and Reality

PHIL 390 - Topics in Philosophy

PHIL 399 - Independent Study

PHIL 490 - Philosophy Capstone Seminar

PHIL 497 - Internship

PHIL 499 - Independent Study

PHYS 105 - Introductory Musical Acoustics

PHYS 110 - Astronomy

PHYS 131 - Physics I (Non-Calculus)

PHYS 132 - Physics II (Non-Calculus)

PHYS 160 - Einstein and Heisenberg: Physics of the Fast and the Small

PHYS 161 - Physics I: Mechanics and Heat

PHYS 162 - Physics II: Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics

PHYS 200 - Electronic Instrumentation for Scientists

PHYS 211 - Engineering Statics

PHYS 251 - Mechanics of Materials

PHYS 263 - Physics III: Quantum Physics

PHYS 264 - Experimental Quantum Physics

PHYS 300 - Computational Mechanics

PHYS 310 - Data Acquisition with LabVIEW

PHYS 320 - Physics of Solids

PHYS 340 - Thermal Physics I

PHYS 341 - Thermal Physics II

PHYS 391 - Seminar I

PHYS 392 - Seminar II

PHYS 395 - Research

PHYS 410 - Advanced Experimental Physics

PHYS 420 - Electromagnetic Theory

PHYS 440 - Quantum Mechanics

PHYS 490 - Topics

POLS 100 - Civic Well-Being

POLS 101 - The American Political System

POLS 102 - Introduction to International Relations

POLS 200 - Scope and Practice of Political Science

POLS 203 - Law, Politics and Society

POLS 204 - Political and Legal Dimensions Disasters