Interdisciplinary Study
INTERDISCIPLINARY PROGRAMS
Interdisciplinary programs exist to provide an appropriate structure within which to offer study opportunities that do not fit within the bounds of existing departments, to bring together faculty and students from several disciplines to study areas of interest that cross traditional departmental lines and require an interdisciplinary approach, and to inform the campus community at large of the nature and importance of these areas.
African American Studies
American Studies
Archaeology
Asian Studies
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Earth System Science
Environmental Science
Film Studies
Latin American Studies
Nueroscience
Urban Studies
Women′s Studies
Interdisciplinary Majors
Self-Designed Interdisciplinary Majors
Interdisciplinary Courses
Interdisciplinary Course Offerings
AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES
Program Committee:Anita Davis, Department of Psychology, Chair
Luther Ivory, Department of Religious Studies
Susan Kus, Department of Anthropology/Sociology
Charles McKinney, Department of History
Katheryn Wright, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES:
A total of twenty-four (24)credits as follows:- One required course: History 242: African American History
- Five additional courses chosen from the following three categories. No more than three courses are to be chosen from either category A or B and students must take at least one course at the 300-level. Also, students are strongly encouraged to complete a semester-length internship at an approved site. Courses regularly offered include:
- English, History, Modern Languages and Literatures, Music, Philosophy, Religious Studies:
English 224: Introduction to African American Poetry in the United States
English 364: African American Literature
French 354: African Literatures in French
History 105: Selected Introductory Topics in History (when topic is African American studies)
History 205: Selected Topics in History (when topic is African American studies)
History 247: The American South
History 305: Selected Advanced Topics in History (when topic is African American studies)
History 342: Slavery in the United States
History 343: The Civil Rights Movement
Music 118: African American Music
Philosophy 250: Topics in Philosophy (when topic is African American Studies)
Religion 232: Religion and Racism
Religion 258: African American Religion
Religion 259: Martin Luther King, Jr. and Civil Rights - Anthropology/Sociology, International Studies, Political Science, Psychology
Anthropology/Sociology 341: Peoples of Sub-Sahara African and Madagascar
Anthropology/Sociology 343: Race/Ethnic Identities, Experiences and Relations
International Studies 245: Government and Politics of Africa
International Studies 431-432: Topics in International Studies (when topic is African American studies)
Political Science 230: Black Politics
Psychology 105: Special Topics in Psychology (when topic is African American studies) - Internships (as approved by the departments and chair of the African American Studies program committee)
Anthropology/Sociology 460
History 460
Political Science 460
Psychology 460
Urban Studies 460
- English, History, Modern Languages and Literatures, Music, Philosophy, Religious Studies:
AMERICAN STUDIES
Committee:Marshall Boswell, Department of English
Thomas Bremer, Department of Religious Studies
Dorothy C. Garceau, Department of History
Timothy S. Huebner, Department of History
David P. McCarthy, Department of Art
Charles McKinney, Department of History
Gail Murray, Department of History
Leslie Petty, Department of English
Robert Saxe, Department of History, Chair
Patrick A. Shade, Department of Philosophy
Carla Shirley, Department of Anthropology and Sociology
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN AMERICAN STUDIES
A total of twenty-four (24) credits as follows:- American Studies 200 and American Studies 400
- Four of the following courses with an American Studies approach, chosen from three of the departments below:
- Anthropology/Sociology 105: Introductory Sociology
Anthropology/Sociology 206: Social Problems
Anthropology/Sociology 210: Gender and Society
Anthropology/Sociology 343: Racial and Ethnic Minorities - Art 334: American Art
Art 344: Modern Art III
Art 345: Contemporary Art - English 220: Women and Literature (when subject is American)
English 224: African American Poetry
English 225: Southern Literature
English 241: History and Criticism of American Cinema
English 245: Special Topics in Film (when subject is American)
English 262: Survey of American Literature
English 265: Special Topics (when subject is American)
English 360: American Romanticism
English 361: American Realism and Naturalism
English 362: American Modernism
English 370: American Postmodernism and Beyond
English 364: African American Poetry
English 381: Topics in Film (when subject is American)
English 385: Topics in Advanced Literary Study (when subject is American) - History 105: Selected Introductory Topics (when topic is American)
History 231: North America in the Colonial and Revolutionary Eras.
History 232: The United States in the Nineteenth Century.
History 233: The United States in the Twentieth Century.
History 242: African-American History.
History 244: History of Childhood in the United States.
History 245: Women in United States History.
History 246: Gender and Warfare in America.
History 247: The American South
History 249: Poverty in the United States.
History 341: Native America and American History.
History 342: Slavery in the United States
History 343: The Civil Rights Movement
History 344: African American Intellectual Tradition
History 349: Black and White Women in the History of the American
History 350: 19th Century Women In American
History 351: United States Constitutional History to 1865
History 352: United States Constitutional History since 1865
History 356: Cold War America
History 354: Interpreting the American West.
History 357: U.S. Intellectual History: The Twentieth Century
History 432: Colonial North America
History 434: The Early Republic of the United States
History 435: The Civil War and Reconstruction Era
History 436: The Origins of Modern American, 1877-1918
History 439: Recent History of the United States
History 445: Gender in the American West - Philosophy 250: Topics in Philosophy (when subject is American)
Philosophy 370: American Philosophy - Political Science 151: United States Politics
Political Science 200: Urban Politics
Political Science 212: American Political Thought and Statesmanship
Political Science 230: Black Political Thought
Political Science 280: Topics in American Politics and Institutions
Political Science 301-302: Constitutional Law and Politics
Political Science 340: The American Presidency
Political Science 360: Congress and the Political Process
Political Science 401: Seminar in American Politics and Institutions - Religious Studies 251: Religion in America
Religious Studies 258: Topics in the History of Religions (when subject is American)
Religious Studies 259: Topics in the History of Christianity (when subject is American)
Religious Studies 300: Selected Topics (when subject is American) - International Studies 371: American Foreign Policy
International Studies 372: U. S. National Security Policy - Music 118: African-American Music
- Anthropology/Sociology 105: Introductory Sociology
COURSE OFFERINGS
200. Introduction to American Studies.Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Humanities.
An interdisciplinary, team-taught, topics course designed to introduce students to the methodologies of American Studies. Topics vary with instructors. Readings will include studies of myths and symbols; scholarship that employs the analysis of race, gender, and class; explorations in popular culture.
400. Senior Research Paper in American Studies.
Fall. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Humanities.
An interdisciplinary research paper, modeled on the example of honors projects. Students will identify a topic of study, write a proposal, develop a bibliography, and produce a research paper with the guidance of three members of the American Studies Committee.
Prerequisites: American Studies 200 and at least three courses from those listed in the American Studies minor. Open only to seniors.
ARCHAEOLOGY
Committee:Ryan Byrne, Department of Religious Studies, co-Chair
Dee Garceau, Department of History
Susan Kus, Department of Anthropology and Sociology
Milton Moreland, Department of Religious Studies, co-Chair
Kenny Morrell, Department of Greek and Roman Studies
Jon Russ, Department of Chemistry
Glenda Swan, Department of Art
Ann Viano, Department of Physics
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN ARCHEOLOGY:
A total of twenty-four (24)credits as follows:- Archaeology 210 or Anthropology 250: Learning from Things: Material Culture Studies
- Archaeology 220 or Art 220: Archaeological Methods
- Three courses selected from a list of courses that deal with archaeological issues offered in various departments. At least two departments must be represented to satisfy this requirement.
Anthropology/Sociology 207: Becoming Human: Archaeology and the Origins of Culture
Anthropology/Sociology 208: Pyramids and Palaces: Archaeology of Complex Societies
Anthropology/Sociology 211: Women in Prehistory and Women as Prehistorians
Art 318: Greek Art and Architecture
Art 319: Roman Art and Architecture
Art 320: Art and Architecture of Ancient Egypt and the Near East
Chemistry 105: Topics in chemistry (when offered as Archaeometry)
Greek and Roman Studies 305: Travel-Study in Europe, the
Mediterranean, and the Near East
Religious Studies 260: Archaeology and the Biblical World
Religious Studies 265: Archaeology and the Biblical World: Field Work (with permission) - A choice of one course from the following two options.
Archaeology 450: Archaeological Field School
Archaeology 460: Internship
COURSE OFFERINGS
210. Learning from Things: Material Culture StudiesSpring. Credits: 4.
While we are symbol users and inhabitants of imagined worlds, we are also tool makers whose hands are “dirtied” in manipulating the world. This course will focus attention on of our “materiality” and our engagement with the material world. Examples of material culture studies will be drawn from such disciplines as archaeology, anthropology, geography, history, art history, folklore, popular culture, architecture, and museum studies. Material culture studies, while a rich source of information is also a challenging arena for the study of individuals, societies and cultures because objects neither “speak” unambiguously nor directly to us. Students will come to appreciate how astute observation underpinned by theoretical acumen and the clever framing of questions can allow us to “learn from things.” This course is cross-listed as Anthropology/Sociology 250.
220. Archaeological Methods.
Credits: 4.
This class will expose students to a range of archaeological methods used in the field, laboratory and museum to find, record, date, preserve and contextualize physical materials. Basic methods of investigation and research will be discussed through the examination of site survey, excavation and the analysis of artifacts. Students will be introduced to various systems of archaeological classification and analytical techniques for understanding objects such as lithic artifacts, pottery, human skeletal remains, and other historic and prehistoric artifacts. Artifact illustration, photography, cataloguing and curating will also be discussed. (Course offered every third year; scheduled for 2006-2007.)
450. Archaeological Field School.
Credits: 4.
Degree Requirement: F11
A supervised training course (ordinarily in the summer) in archeological methods at a controlled excavation. Students will live on the site and participate as crewmembers in the excavation, registration, restoration and publication of archaeological remains. Most students will participate in the Rhodes summer field school at the Ames Plantation, but alternative field schools in the USA or abroad are acceptable alternatives pending the approval of the chair of the Archaeology Program.
460. Internship.
Credits: 4.
A supervised learning experience involving archaeological and/or material culture studies out of state, abroad, or in the community outside of the college. This may include museums, laboratories, cultural resource management firms, cultural conservation projects, historical landmarks, surveying firms, etc. The student and the faculty advisor will devise the program of field work and submit it for approval to the chair of the Archaeology Program.
ASIAN STUDIES
Committee:John F. Copper, Department of International Studies
Michael R. Drompp, Department of History,
John C. Kaltner, Department of Religious Studies
David Mason, Department of Theatre
Mark W. Muesse, Department of Religious Studies, Chair
Michelle Voss Roberts, Department of Religious Studies
Lynn B. Zastoupil, Department of History
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN ASIAN STUDIES:
A total of twenty (20) credits as follows:- Asian Studies 150: Themes in Asian Studies
- Four additional courses (200-level or above) chosen from at least two different departments. One of these courses may take the form of a directed inquiry if approved by the Asian Studies Committee. Courses currently being offered which meet this requirement are:
- History
History 281: The Origins of Chinese Civilization
History 282: Late Imperial China
History 288: Japanese Civilization
History 293: Ancient and Medieval India
History 294: Modern India
History 385: Nomads of Inner Asia
History 389: East Asia in the Modern World
History 482: Modern China
History 488: Modern Japan - International Studies
International Studies 261: Government and Politics of China
International Studies 262: China’s Foreign Policy
International Studies 263: Government and Politics of Japan
International Studies 264: Government and Politics of Southeast Asia
International Studies 285: The East Asia Miracle
International Studies 395: United States Foreign Policy in East Asia
International Studies 432: Topics in International Studies (when topic centers on Asia) - Modern Languages and Literatures
Chinese 205: Modern Chinese Literature in English Translation
Chinese 210: Chinese Literary Heritage
Chinese 215: Images of Women in Chinese Literature and Film
Chinese 220: Contemporary Chinese Cinema
Chinese 300: Asian Humanities: India, China, Japan - Religious Studies
Religion 255: Living Religions in Today’s World (when topic centers on Asia)
Religion 258: Topics in the History of Religions (when topic centers on Asia) - Theatre
Theatre 270: Introduction to Asian Theatre
Theatre 360: Introduction to Theatre in India
COURSE OFFERINGS
150. Themes in Asian Studies.
Fall or Spring. Credits: 4.
This introductory course examines the historical and cultural experiences of various peoples of Asia through a thematic approach. The course takes a comparative approach to a particular topic that reflects important forces that have had an impact throughout Asia. By examining a broad theme that has had resonance throughout Asia, the student will develop an appreciation for the complexity and diversity of Asian cultures while at the same time exploring common forces that have shaped those cultures. Such themes could include the development of Buddhism in Asia, comparative approaches to Asian theatre, and the history of Asian societies’ experiences with Western political and economic expansionism.
BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Committee:
Terry Hill, Department of Biology
Darlene Loprete, Department of Chemistry, Chair
Mary Miller, Department of Biology
Loretta Jackson-Hayes, Department of Chemistry
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MAJOR IN BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LEADING TO THE B.S. DEGREE
It is strongly recommended that Chemistry 111-111L and Biology 130-131 be taken in the fall semester of the first year.
A total of forty-one to forty-three (41-43) credits as follows:
- Chemistry 111-111L*, 112-112L, 211, 212-212L.
- Biology 130-131.*
- Biology 325, 325L, (Molecular Biology) and 307 (Cell Biology).
- Chemistry 414 (Biochemistry).
- BCMB 310 (Methods in Biochemistry and Cell Biology).
- BCMB 485 or 486.
- Two of the following courses:
- Biology 304-304L (Genetics).
- Chemistry 311 (Physical Chemistry).
- Chemistry 416 (Pharmacology)
- BCMB 451 or 452 (4 credits, 4 credits; may only satisfy one elective)
- Biology 204-204L (Mechanisms of Development)
- Biology 301-301L (Microbiology)
- Biology 380 (Topics in Biomedical Science)
- Computer Science 141
For students seeking admission to graduate school, the following courses are recommended:
- BCMB 451 or 452
- Mathematics 121, 122
- Physics 109-110 or 111-112, and 114L
- Biology 140, 141 for programs in the biological sciences.
- Chemistry 311-312, 312L for programs in biochemistry.
For students seeking admission to programs in the health professions, the following courses are recommended:
- Mathematics 115 or 121, 122
- Physics 109-110 or 111-112, and 113L-114L
COURSE OFFERINGS
310. Methods in Biochemistry and Cell Biology.
Fall. Credits: 2.
This course will provide instruction in the theory and application of a variety of research techniques dealing with the structure and function of proteins in biological systems. Techniques to be studied include enzyme assays and characterization, peptide sequencing, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, antibody production, immunoblotting, and fluorescence microscopy. This course can count as laboratory credit to accompany Biology 307 or Chemistry 414 or both. One hour of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week plus independent work.
Prerequisites: Chemistry 112-112L or permission of instructor.
451-452. Research in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 1–4.
Qualified students may conduct original laboratory research in biochemistry and molecular biology. A student may use four credit hours of research to satisfy one of the upper level requirements in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Interested students should consult a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology committee member.
Prerequisites: permission of sponsoring faculty member and the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology committee. At least three hours of lab work per week per credit, weekly conferences with faculty sponsor, written report at the end of the semester.
460. Internship.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 1-4.
The Internship Program is designed to introduce students to practical applications of their academic work. Students may work off campus under professional supervision in fields related to the biochemical and molecular biological sciences, such as in bioinformatics and biotechnology. Students will be required to integrate academic and work experiences in an oral and/or written report at the end of the internship. No more than 3 credits per semester for no more than two semesters. Pass/Fail credit only. This course does not satisfy an upper level course requirement for the major.
Prerequisites: Permission of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Committee chair
485-486. Senior Seminar.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4.
All Biochemistry and Molecular Biology majors are required to enroll in Senior Seminar during one semester of their senior year. Senior Seminar is intended to be a broad, integrative experience in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, requiring both oral and written work.
Prerequisites: Completion of the required courses or permission of instructor.
495-496. Honors Tutorial.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4-8.
Open to candidates for honors in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Includes supervised honors research and instruction in an appropriate field of study.
Prerequisites: Permission of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Committee.
EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE
Committee:Carol L. Ekstrom, Department of Physics (Geology)
David H. Kesler, Department of Biology
Ann M. Viano, Department of Physics
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE
A total of twenty-three (23) credits as follows:- Geology 111: Earth System Science
- Geology 116: Global Environmental Change
- Statistics (Math 111 or Economics 290, or Psychology 211) or
Interdisciplinary 222-322: GIS (for a total of three credit hours) - Twelve additional credits, selected from the following courses. The courses must be in at least two different departments: a maximum of one course may be taken from Group B.
Group A
Biology 200. Evolution
Biology 212. Environmental Issues in South Africa
Biology 214. Environmental Field Study in Namibia
Biology 253-254. Coral Reef Ecology
Biology 315. Ecology
Biology 320,320L. Conservation Biology
Chemistry 105, Chemistry, Archeology, and Art
Geology 112. Evolution of the Earth
Geology 214. Environmental Geology*
Geology 301. Special Problems in Geology
Geology 460. Internship in Geology
Physics 101. Astronomy
Group B
Anthropology/Sociology 205. Victims of Progress
Anthropology/Sociology 321. Ecological Anthropology
Interdisciplinary 260. Frontiers of Environment and Culture
Philosophy 302. Environmental Ethics
Religious Studies 200. Topics course (when environmental topic)
Women’s Studies 200, Introduction to Women’s Studies (when appropriate) - One Experiential Learning involvement:
Courses marked with an *, or pre-approved research, internships, or volunteer projects. Pre-approved off-campus courses may be used to fulfill the ESS Requirements.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Committee:
David Kesler, Department of Biology, Chair
Rosanna Cappellato, Department of Biology
Carol Ekstrom, Department of Physics (Geology)
Eric Gottlieb, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
Jon Russ, Department of Chemistry
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
A total of twenty-four (24) credits and one additional experiential environmental experience as follows:
- Two of the following introductory courses in environmental science:
- Geology 116: Global Environmental Change
- Geology 111: Introduction to Earth System Science
- Biology 105: Environmental Science
- Three of the following courses: (At least one must be taken from outside a student’s major department)
Biology 210: Conservation Biology
Biology 212 and 214 (taken together): Environmental Issues in Southern Africa, Environmental Field Studies in Namibia and Botswana
Biology or Geology 254: Coral Reef Ecology
Biology 315: Ecology
Chemistry 211: Organic Chemistry I
Chemistry 406: Instrumental Analysis
Chemistry 422: Advanced Organic Chemistry
Geology 214: Environmental Geology - One additional environmentally-oriented course 200 or higher level approved by the program committee
- One additional environmentally-oriented experience based on experiential learning. These experiences will be approved by the environmental science committee but may include independent research, internships, service projects, summer experiences, and international experiences.
FILM STUDIES
Committee:
Jennifer Brady, Department of English
Michael LaRosa, Department of History
Valerie Nollan, Department of Foreign Languages and Literature
James Vest, Department of Foreign Languages and Literature
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN FILM STUDIES
A total of twenty (20) credits as follows:
- English 202
- English 382
- Three courses to be chosen from a list of offerings in various departments. One of these requirements may be satisfied by a directed inquiry or an internship (on approval of the Film Minor Committee). Courses currently being offered which meet one or more of these requirements are:
Art 345: Contemporary Art
English 202: Introduction to Cinema
English 204: Introduction to Screenwriting
English 241: History and Criticism of American Cinema
English 242: World Film
English 245: Special Topics in Film
English 381: Advanced Topics in Film
French 134: Hitchcock and Truffaut
French 332: French Drama
French 334: French Cinema
German 307: German Cinema
History 205: History of Latin America through Film
Russian 400: Russian and Soviet Cinema
LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES
Committee:
Teresa Delfin, Department of Anthropology and Sociology
Eric Henager, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
Michael LaRosa, Department of History, chair
Elizabeth Pettinaroli, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
Amy Risley, Department of International Studies
Timothy Watkins, Department of Music
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MAJOR IN LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES
A total of forty-eight (48) credits as follows:
Each of the following seven courses:
Anthropology/Sociology 350: Contemporary South American Society and Culture
History 261: Colonial Latin American
History 262: Modern Latin America
International Studies 200: Introduction to Comparative Politics
International Studies 273: Latin American Politics and Society
Spanish 306: Introduction to Latin American Cultures and Literatures*
Latin American Studies 200 Introduction to Latin American Studies
Latin American Studies 485: Senior Seminar
One of the following courses:
International Studies 274: Issues in US-Latin American Relations
International Studies 431 or 432: Topics in International Studies (when the topic focuses on Latin America)
History 363: History of US-Latin American Relations
Spanish 310: US-Latino Literatures and Cultures
One of the following courses:
Economics 102: Introduction to Economics*
International Studies 310: Comparative Political Economy
International Studies 312: International Political Economy
One of the following courses:
Anthropology/Sociology 335: Modernization and Cultural Change
Anthropology/Sociology 346: Peoples of South America
Anthropology/Sociology 300: Cultural Motifs (when the topic focuses on Latin America)
Music 119: Music in Latin America
One of the following courses:
Spanish 309: Spanish in Ecuador
Spanish 320: Spanish American Drama
Spanish 330: Spanish American Poetry
Spanish 340: Latin American Colonial Literature
Spanish 360: Gender in Spanish American Literature
Spanish 370: Contemporary Southern Cone Literature
Spanish 405: Literature of Mexico after 1911
Spanish 406: Contemporary Novel of Spanish America
Spanish 408: Spanish American Short Story
Spanish 365: Special Topics in Spanish (when the topic focuses on Latin America)
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES
A total of twenty-eight credits as follows:
Anthropology/Sociology 350
Anthropology/Sociology 335 or 346
History 261, 262
International Studies 200 and 273 or 274
*Spanish 306
*Prerequisite for Economics 102: Economics 101; prerequisite for Spanish 306: course or courses required to achieve skill competency for literature courses, usually 202 and 301 or 302.
COURSE OFFERINGS
200. Introduction to Latin American Studies.
Fall. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: F9.
An introduction to the diverse cultural, social, and political realities of Latin America and the Caribbean. The region is examined from an interdisciplinary perspective that draws on the fields of literature, anthropology, sociology, history, and international studies. Major topics covered in the course include gender, ethnicity, religion, magical realism, immigration, revolution, dictatorship, and human rights. The course is intended as a broad overview of Latin American studies.
485. Senior Seminar.
Fall. Credits: 4.
Senior Seminar is an interdisciplinary research project from the following departments: Anthropology/Sociology; History; International Studies; Foreign Languages (Spanish). Students must combine two disciplines in their research and work under the supervision of the faculty from the departments who are also members of the Latin American Studies Committee.
NEUROSCIENCE
Committee:Jay A. Blundon, Department of Biology, Chair
Robert Strandburg, Department of Psychology
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MAJOR IN NEUROSCIENCE LEADING TO THE B.S. DEGREE
A total of sixty-two (62) credits as follows:- Seven (7) introductory courses
- Biology 130-131L
- Biology 140-141L
- Chemistry 111-111L
- Chemistry 112-112L
- Philosophy 328
- Psychology 150
- Psychology 200
- Four (4) specific upper level courses
- Biology 370
- Psychology 211
- Psychology 318
- Neuroscience 485/486
- Four (4) of the following electives
- Biology 204, 207, 304, 307, 325
- Chemistry 414, 416
- Neuroscience 451-452
- Psychology 216, 220, 224, 306, 327, 353
- Courses recommended but not required
- Chemistry 211-212 (L)
- Computer Science 141
- Mathematics 115
- Physics 111-112
- Political Science 216
COURSE OFFERINGS
451-452. Research in Neuroscience.Fall, Spring. Credits: 1–4
Qualified students may conduct laboratory research in neuroscience. Four credits of research may be used to satisfy one of the upper level electives for the Neuroscience Major. Involves at least three hours of work per week per credit, regular meetings with the faculty sponsor, and a formal presentation of the research product upon completion. Interested students should consult the Neuroscience Program committee.
Prerequisites: Permission of the sponsoring faculty member and the Neuroscience Committee.
485-486. Senior Seminar.
Fall or Spring. Credits: 4
All Neuroscience majors are required to enroll in Senior Seminar during one semester of their senior year. Senior Seminar is intended to be a capstone academic experience that involves student presentations and discussions of current primary literature in Neuroscience. Students will lead a discussion of primary literature articles and will also prepare a research paper on the same topic.
Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor.
495-496. Honors Tutorial.
Fall or Spring. Credits: 4-8
Open to senior candidates for honors research in Neuroscience with a minimum maintained GPA of 3.5. Each candidate must submit a research proposal to the Neuroscience Program Committee in September followed by a manuscript of their research by March of the next year. The honors degree in Neuroscience is contingent upon committee acceptance of the research manuscript. Includes supervised honors research and instruction in an appropriate field of study.
Prerequisites: Permission of the Neuroscience Committee.
URBAN STUDIES
Committee:
Rosanna Capellato, Department of Biology
Michael P. Kirby, Department of Political Science, Chair
Thomas G. McGowan, Department of Anthropology and Sociology
Charles W. McKinney, Jr., Department of History
Gail Murray, Department of History
Carla Shirley, Department of Anthropology and Sociology
Mark V. Smith, Department of Psychology
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MAJOR IN URBAN STUDIES
A total of forty one (41) credits as follows:
- Urban Studies 201: Introduction to Urban Studies
- Interdisciplinary 222 or 322: Introduction to GIS or Seminar in GIS (One credit)
- Political Science 200: Urban Politics
- Political Science 316: Urban Policy
- Anthropology and Sociology 343: Race/Ethnic Identities, Experiences and Relations
- Anthropology and Sociology 261: Research Methods
- History 242: African American History
- Urban Studies 360: Urban Studies Junior Internship (restricted to urban studies majors or minors)
- Urban Studies 485: Urban Studies Senior Seminar
- Two elective courses in Urban Institutions and Issues selected from the following list:
Economics 361: Management of Organizations
Education 201: Foundations of Education
Anthropology and Sociology 303: Medical Sociology
Anthropology and Sociology 307: Sociology of Education
History 343: The Civil Rights Movement
Biology 105: Environmental Science
Geology 214: Environmental Geology
Urban Studies 460: Urban Studies Senior Internship (restricted to urban studies majors or minors who have completed the urban studies junior internship)
Urban Studies 462: Field Projects in Community Organization
Other elective courses may be used to fulfill the elective requirements provided they 1) contain an urban institutional or urban issues focus and 2) are approved for major credit by the Urban Studies Chair. Urban Studies elective courses may be added during the school year; check with program chair during registration for a complete list of electives in Urban Studies; see appropriate departmental listing for course descriptions. Courses cannot be used as both requirements and electives.
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN URBAN STUDIES
A total of twenty one (21) credits as follows:
- Urban Studies 201: Introduction to Urban Studies
- Interdisciplinary 222 or 322: Introduction to GIS or Seminar in GIS (One credit)
- One of the following: Political Science 200: Urban Politics or Political Science 316: Urban Policy
- Anthropology and Sociology 343: Race/Ethnic Identities, Experiences and Relations
- History 242: African American History
- Urban Studies 360: Urban Studies Junior Internship (restricted to urban studies majors or minors)
STUDY ABROAD
Many Urban Studies students spend a semester abroad and some of the courses may be eligible for Urban Studies credit. However, students must provide the program chair with the course information before beginning the program. There are also some programs that are more appropriate for Urban Studies students (for example, see Cities in the 21st Century at Trinity College in Hartford, CT).
COURSE OFFERINGS
201. Introduction to Urban Studies.
Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Social Science, F8.
An interdisciplinary approach to examining issues and institutions in American cities; neighborhoods, downtowns, suburbs, housing, poverty, environmental justice, nonprofits and city politics; discussion of urban public and social policies; field trips or service learning will be used to do hands on analysis of urban issues.
360. Urban Studies Junior Internship.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: F11.
A directed internship with an urban, social, governmental, or nonprofit agency. The courses integrate traditional academic work in Urban Studies with practical internship experience.
Prerequisites: Two courses in Urban Studies or Urban Studies electives.
460. Urban Studies Senior Internship.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: F11.
A directed internship with an urban, social, governmental, or nonprofit agency. The courses integrate traditional academic work in Urban Studies with practical internship experience.
Prerequisites: Urban Studies 360.
462. Field Projects in Community Organization.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4.
Direct application of class work to an urban problem or issue through field work in an urban institution; development of a research or policy design before field activity; involvement of student, faculty sponsor and community agency sponsor.
Prerequisites: Three courses in Urban Studies or Urban Studies electives.
485. Senior Seminar in Urban Studies.
Spring. Credits: 4.
An investigation of subject areas in the discipline of Urban Studies that involves research collaboration between students and faculty.
WOMEN’S STUDIES
Committee:Jennifer Brady, Department of English
Teresa Delfin, Department of Anthropology/Sociology
Kathleen Doyle, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
Carol Ekstrom, Department of Physics (Geology)
Dee Garceau-Hagen, Department of History
Ivan Fernandez, Department of Modern Languages
Judith Haas, Department of English, Chair
Leigh Johnson, Department of Philosophy
Mona Kreitner, Department of Music
Susan Kus, Department of Anthropology/Sociology
Darlene Loprete, Department of Chemistry
Shira Malkin, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
Michelle Mattson, Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
David McCarthy, Department of Art
Gail Murray, Department of History
Rebecca Newman, Department of English
Leslie Petty, Department of English
Michelle Voss Roberts, Department of Religious Studies
Robert Saxe, Department of History
Carla Shirley, Department of Anthropology/Sociology
Gail Streete, Department of Religious Studies
Glenda Swan, Department of Art
Susan Uselmann, Department of English
Marsha Walton, Department of Psychology
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MINOR IN WOMEN’S STUDIES
A total of twenty-four (24) credits as follows:- Women’s Studies 200. Introduction to Women’s Studies.
- Women’s Studies 400. Seminar in Contemporary Feminist Theory.
- Four courses selected from the Women’s Studies curriculum. Two of these courses must come from fields outside of one’s major. For one of these four courses, students are encouraged to consider an Internship or a Directed Inquiry. An Internship or Directed Inquiry must be approved by the director of Women’s Studies.
Women’s Studies courses regularly offered include, but are not limited to:
Anthropology/Sociology 210: Gender and Society
Anthropology/Sociology 211: Women in Prehistory
Art 265: Women in the Ancient World
English 220: Topics in Women and Literature
English 221: The Novel of Manners
English 320: Women Writers in the Middle Ages
French 441: Women Writers, Women’s Writing
History 205: Selected Topics in Women’s History
History 245: Women in United States History
History 249: Black and White Women in the South
History 345: Gender in the American West
History 405: Topics in American Women’s History
Psychology 232: Psychology of Women
Religious Studies 232: Religion and Sexuality
Religious Studies 258: Women in World Religions
Spanish 350: Short Fiction by Spanish Women Writers
Spanish 365: Medieval and Early Modern Spanish Women Writers
COURSE OFFERINGS
200. Introduction to Women’s Studies.Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Humanities.
An interdisciplinary course designed primarily for first and second year students. This course assists students in formulating questions about gender as it relates to their work in various disciplines across the curriculum.
400. Seminar in Contemporary Feminist Theory.
Fall. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Humanities.
An interdisciplinary seminar in contemporary feminist thought for third and fourth year students. Students will examine the contributions of feminist scholars in fields including political theory, literary criticism, theology, psychology, anthropology, sociology, and philosophy.
460. Internship.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4
Degree Requirements: F11
A directed internship in which students integrate their academic study of gender issues with practical experience in off-campus organizations, agencies, or businesses. To be eligible, students must have a G.P.A. of 2.5 or higher.
INTERDISCIPLINARY MAJORS
Students interested in interdisciplinary study are encouraged to consider interdisciplinary majors. The following interdisciplinary majors have been approved by the Faculty, and the required courses have been defined as listed below. Students who wish to declare any of these established interdisciplinary majors may do so by filing the normal Declaration of Major form with the Office of the Registrar. Any deviation from the program of study outlined in the description must be approved by the chairpersons of the departments involved.
ECONOMICS AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
A total of 15-16 courses (60-64 credits) as follows:
- Economics 101, 102, 210, 290, 307, 312, and Economics 407 or 420
- International Studies 100, 190, 200, 300, plus one two course sequence (other than 210-312)
- Mathematics 115
- An appropriate foreign language through completion of the second year (202)
- Students must also successfully complete the interdisciplinary senior seminar (Economics 475).
HISTORY AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
A total of 13-14 courses (52-56 credits) as follows:
- History 200, and two additional courses from the following: 215, 216, 217, 224, 225, 231, 232, 233, 242, 255, 256, 261, 262, 267, 281, 282, 288, 294.
- International Studies 100, 200, 300
- Economics 101-102
- Area Requirement (Choose one area; 2 courses from each department; at least one history course must be at the 400 level)
a. Europe: History: 426, 428; I.S. 281, 282, 283
b. Asia & Africa: History 389, 482, 488; I.S. 243-244 or 245-246 or 261-262 or 263-264
c. the Americas: History 342, 343, 358, 363, 432, 436, 439; I.S. 273-274 - I.S. 475. Senior paper to be written under the direction of one faculty member from each department.
- An appropriate foreign language through completion of the second year (202).
POLITICAL SCIENCE AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
A total of 56 credits as follows:
- International Studies: Two of the following: 100, 190, 200; both of the following: 300, 475; and one two course sequence.
- Political Science: 151, 340, 360; one of the following: 212, 214, 218, 314; and one additional course
- Economics 101,102
- An appropriate foreign language through the completion of the second year (202).
MATHEMATICS AND ECONOMICS
A total of 60 credits as follows:
- Economics 101, 102, 290, 302, 307, 407, 420.
- Mathematics 121, 122, 201, 223, 251, 261.
- Mathematics 311 or 321.
- Economics 486 or Mathematics 485 and 486. Senior projects must have a faculty reader from both departments. The final presentation of the senior project must be made in the Senior Seminars of both departments.
- For students seeking admission to graduate school in mathematics, Mathematics 362 and either 322 or 363 are recommended.
- Other recommended courses include Business 351, Math 431, and CS 141.
SELF-DESIGNED INTERDISCIPLINARY MAJORS
Some students prefer to study in an area that can best be covered by combining the work in two or even three academic departments. Interdisciplinary majors are important ways in which the faculty can meet the special academic needs of these students.Students who wish to declare an interdisciplinary major that does not have a program of study already defined should follow the steps below in order to secure the necessary approvals within a reasonable time and to ensure an adequate review of the proposed program of study. The proposed program of study must include specific provisions for a senior seminar or integrating senior experience. The “Declaration of Interdisciplinary Major” form is used to record the approvals and to advise the Registrar of the College.
- Consult with faculty members in the departments that will be combined in the major to determine the feasibility of the interdisciplinary major. Consultation with the Registrar is also recommended in order to secure an understanding of the approval procedure.
- Prepare, in consultation with the departments, a petition requesting the Faculty’s approval of the interdisciplinary major. This petition is addressed to the Chairperson of the Faculty Educational Program Committee. The petition should contain these items:
- The Declaration of Interdisciplinary Major, including a complete listing of courses, with numbers and titles and dates when the courses which comprise the interdisciplinary major are to be taken. Though it is customary that the number of courses in each department will be fewer than what is expected of a major in that department, it is essential that courses be included in the interdisciplinary major so that reasonably advanced work is done in each department. Introductory level courses in a large number of areas is not sufficient.
- An essay in which a rationale for the interdisciplinary major is developed. Some clear academic link or tie between the departments is essential; simply taking courses in two departments is not sufficient. The rationale should be such that only by combining work in the departments can the rationale be realized. The importance of this essay cannot be overemphasized as it is not only a statement of the student’s reasons for choosing the proposed interdisciplinary major but a philosophical and practical statement of why it is important to the student’s career and life paths.
- A complete description of the manner in which the senior seminar will be structured. It must be clear how the departments involved in the major will be integrated into the senior seminar, seminars, or capstone experience. An indication should be given as to the department or departments in which the senior seminar will be pursued or if an interdisciplinary senior seminar is proposed. The capstone experience should be explained in as much detail as possible.
- Some indication of how the departments will work cooperatively with the student in realizing the rationale for the interdisciplinary major. This may take the form of a specially designed directed inquiry or tutorial for the student, participated in by representatives of the departments; it may be a major project in one area reviewed and evaluated by members of the other department. Whatever form it takes, some academic program sponsored by the departments in the interdisciplinary major is necessary.
- The Declaration of Interdisciplinary Major must be endorsed in writing by the chairpersons of the departments. This endorsement should give an assessment of the student’s ability to undertake and complete successfully the work projected in the petition. The departmental endorsements should also specify who will serve as the principal faculty advisor for the student.
- The entire Declaration of Interdisciplinary Major with the completed petition is submitted to the Registrar for review before it is sent to the Education Program Committee for a full review and action.
- Interdisciplinary majors must be declared and receive approval no later than midterm of the spring semester of the junior year. It is expected that work on the petition, interviews with faculty, and consultation with the Registrar will take place no later than the fall semester of the junior year. The student who submits an interdisciplinary major petition will have already declared a major by midterm of the spring semester of the sophomore year. If the interdisciplinary major can be worked out in time for the sophomore year deadline for declaring a major, it should be submitted earlier.
- Any proposed deviation from the approved interdisciplinary major must have departmental approvals and the approval of the Education Program Committee before changes are made in the course of study.
INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSES
HUMANITIES
Basic Requirement in HumanitiesThe Life program and the Search program described below offer alternative ways to fulfill the Basic Requirement in Humanities in the College’s general degree requirements.
Life: Then and Now.
Staff:
Mark W. Muesse, Department of Religious Studies
Thomas Bremer, Department of Religious Studies
Ryan Byrne, Department of Religious Studies
Patrick Gray, Department of Religious Studies
Stephen R. Haynes, Department of Religious Studies
Kendra G. Hotz, Department of Religious Studies
Luther D. Ivory, Department of Religious Studies
John C. Kaltner, Department of Religious Studies
Steven L. McKenzie, Department of Religious Studies
Bernadette McNary-Zak, Department of Religious Studies
Milton C. Moreland, Department of Religious Studies
Brendan M. O Sullivan, Department of Philosophy
Michelle Voss Roberts, Department of Religious Studies
Patrick A. Shade, Department of Philosophy
David Sick, Department of Greek and Roman Studies
Gail P. C. Streete, Department of Religious Studies
In the first two courses of the Life: Then and Now program, the student is introduced to the major methodological approaches to the study of religion represented in the “Life” curriculum. The student selects the last course from a range of courses that apply these specific methodological approaches to different aspects of religion. Fuller course descriptions may be found in the departmental listings.
Religious Studies 101. The Bible: Texts and Contexts. (First Semester, First Year) [4]. The first in a two-course sequence that introduces the “Life” curriculum, this course focuses on introducing students to the academic study of the Bible. Students survey representative texts from each genre of biblical writing in the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. Particular attention is paid to understanding the role of historical and cultural context in shaping biblical views on theological issues (God, sin and evil, Jesus’ significance, e.g.).
Religious Studies 102. The Bible: Texts and Contexts. (Second Semester, First Year) [4]. This course continues the introduction to the “Life” sequence begun in Religious Studies 101 by examining the development of central themes in the Christian theological tradition. The course begins with classical figures from the early and medieval periods, and follows the impact of modernity on Christian thought. The course concludes with major theological developments in the 20th and 21st centuries, including the advent of the comparative study of religion.
Final Courses. The concluding courses in the “Life” curriculum allow the student to focus in particular areas of the study of religion or philosophy. See the departmental listings under “Religious Studies,” “Philosophy,” and “Greek and Roman Studies” for specific courses in the Life curriculum.
The Search for Values in the Light of Western History and Religion.
Staff:
Charles H. Arndt, III, Department of Modern Languages
Christopher E. Baldwin, Department of Political Science
Anthony J. Becker, Jr., Department of Biology
Frank M. Buscher, Department of History
Ryan Byrne, Department of Religious Studies
Daniel E. Cullen, Department of Political Science
C. Patrick Gray, Department of Religious Studies
Judith P. Haas, Department of English
Kendra G. Hotz, Department of Religious Studies
Jeffrey H. Jackson, Department of History
Leigh M. Johnson, Department of Philosophy
David Mason, Department of Theatre
Karl-Heinz Maurer, Department of Modern Languages
Bernadette McNary-Zak, Department of Religious Studies
Milton C. Moreland, Department of Religious Studies
Kenneth S. Morrell, Department of Greek and Roman Studies
Gail S. Murray, Department of History
Michael Nelson, Department of Political Science
Valerie Z. Nollan, Department of Modern Languages
Brendan M. O’Sullivan, Department of Philosophy
Michelle Voss Roberts, Department of Religious Studies
David H. Sick, Department of Greek and Roman Studies
Gail P. C. Streete, Department of Religious Studies
Glenda M. Swan, Department of Art
Andrew J. Terjesen, Department of Philosophy
James M. Vest, Department of Modern Languages
Timothy D. Watkins, Department of Music
Brian M. Warren, Department of Greek and Roman Studies
Stephen H. Wirls, Department of Political Science
Humanities 101-102-201. The Search for Values in the Light of Western History and Religion.
Fall-Spring-Fall. Credits: 4-4-4
The Search for Values in the Light of Western History and Religion is an interdisciplinary study of the ideas, beliefs, and cultural developments that have formed Western culture. In the first year (101-102), students examine original documents in translation from the history and literature of the Israelites, the Greeks, the Romans, and the early Christians. Selected texts from the Hebrew Bible are read and discussed in conjunction with the ideas and themes of Mesopotamian and Greek culture. Students study the Gospels and selected letters from the New Testament in conjunction with Hellenistic and Roman history, life, and thought.
In the third semester, students trace the roles of biblical and classical heritages in the shaping of the values, character, and institutions of Western culture and its understanding of self and world. To this end, they read and discuss selections from the works of philosophers, theologians, political theorists, scientists, and literary artists from the Renaissance to the present. Courses in the second year are organized by discipline or other theme. Choices include biology, classical studies, history, literature, music, philosophy, politics, religious studies, and theatre.
Prerequisites: Humanities 101 is a prerequisite for Humanities 102. Humanities 102 is a prerequisite for Humanities 201. These prerequisites may be satisfied alternatively by the permission of the instructor.
INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSE OFFERINGS222. Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Spring. Credits: 1.
Geographic information systems (GIS) technology is a tool used for scientific investigations, resource management and development planning. GIS technology is a collection of digital maps, associated digital data, and software tools that can answer spatially posed questions. This course will introduce students to GIS technology, GIS software and the application of GIS in a variety of natural and social science disciplines, including anthropology, biology, economics and business, geology, political science international studies, and urban studies.
240. Voice and Diction for Public Speakers.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4.
This course provides students with frequent opportunities to practice oral communication skills. Students study the fundamentals of healthy and efficient voice production, as well as the use of the voice and body as instruments of expression and persuasion.
262. Trial Procedure.
Fall. Credits: 4.
Students study and practice trial procedure. Topics include opening statements, direct examination, cross examination, closing statements, objections, and preparing a witness.
Prerequisite: Sophomore status or permission of the instructor.
263. Mock Trial Participation.
Spring. Credits: 1.
Preparation for and participation in intercollegiate Mock Trial competitions. Participants prepare cases around assigned sets of facts. They then practice and compete in roles of both lawyer and witness.
Prerequisites: Political Science 262 and invitation of the instructor. A total of 4 credits may be earned for Mock Trial Participation.
322. Geographic Information Systems Research Seminar.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 1-2.
This course is designed for students who have already been introduced to the analytical tools of GIS. Students will undertake a research project under the supervision of one of the faculty teaching this course. The research project will culminate in a paper and presentation. The seminar will meet in an ongoing basis to exchange ideas, report on progress, and share potential sources of information.
331. Theory and Practice of Scholarship Grant Writing.
Spring. Credits: 1.
This course is a workshop designed to assist students in the theoretical and practical aspects of writing successful grants for post-graduate scholarships and other competitive opportunities. Students learn about the various options available, read scholarly literature on grant writing, develop strategies for writing proposals and give and receive criticism on proposals and projects. By the conclusion of the course, students are prepared to compete for national postgraduate scholarships.
485, 486. Interdisciplinary Senior Seminar.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4.
This course is intended for the student who is pursuing an interdisciplinary, self-designed major. In the event that the student is unable to unify the senior seminar experiences of the departments involved in the major or to take each of the department’s senior seminars, the Interdisciplinary Senior Seminar will be utilized to serve as the culminating experience for the major. It is intended to be an experience that will show both a breadth and a depth of knowledge in the integration of the departments, requiring both written and oral work.



