Sep 20, 2024  
College Catalog 2018-2019 
    
College Catalog 2018-2019 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses


 

Philosophy

  
  • PHIL 631 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 632 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 633 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 634 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 641 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 642 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 643 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHIL 644 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (4 Credits)


Physical Education

  
  • PE 01 - Swimming I


    Learn technique and develop proficiency in freestyle and focus on skill development for backstroke and breaststroke through attendance and active class participation. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 02 - Tennis I


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 03 - Beginning Social Dance


    Learn how to dance the Foxtrot, Waltz, Rumba and East Coast Swing! Learn to identify the music for each particular dance and dance to the music with a partner. Introduction to techniques unique to each dance. No partner is required, and all are welcome. No previous dance experience necessary. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 04 - Karate I


    This course is based on Japanese Shotokan Karate (JKA). Level 1 and level 2 work covers all basic stances, punches, strikes kicks and blocks required for ranking standards of the American Amateur Karate Federation. Students will also learn required partner drills (kumite) designed to build sparring skills as well as forms (kata) required for beginning to intermediate ranks-white through purple belt (8th kyu-5th kyu). Classes are taught in the same manner as at a karate dojo or studio so students are familiar with the etiquette and formality of that type of experience. Classes include stretching warm-ups and are vigorous and aerobic. Students should expect a demanding workout and should inform the teacher (Sensei) of any limitations they may have. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 05 - Fencing I


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 06 - Yoga I


    This class is based on Hatha Yoga. Class work is centered in physical posture (asana) practice and breath work (pranayama). These two limbs of yoga allow the student to become familiar with his/her own body and the way the minds inhabits it. Basic yoga poses (asana) are introduced and added to each week progressing from beginner poses to intermediate poses with advanced variations offered for more experienced students. Yoga class starts with centering breath work and moves into postures (asana) and movement (vinyasa) which warm up the muscles and open the joints as postures are explored. Props are employed to allow proper alignment. Class work ends with a cool down period to allow the student to come into balance and a relaxation (shavasana). Any level of fitness is appropriate! Inform instructor of limitations so practice can be adjusted for you. Come to the practice with an open mind and a desire to explore, embrace and inhabit your best self in a supportive, non-competitive space. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 07 - Personal Health, Wellness,and Mindfulness


    In this class students will explore the various aspects of wellness.  This class will function from a whole person “Bio - psycho-social-spiritual” perspective.  Students will be introduced to concepts that will both expand their knowledge on aspects of wellness and introduce course skills for them to implement in their daily lives. Every semester (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 08 - Step Aerobics


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 09 - Conditioning


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 10 - Racquetball I


    This course will provide the opportunity to learn the basic rules and strategies for playing the game of racquetball. This is a pass/no pass activity course and attendance is vital to the success of this course. Throughout this course students will be introduced to the mechanics of the forehand and backhand and will practice a variety of defensive and offensive shots such as the ceiling shot and kill shot. Students will gain an understanding of all of the rules of serving for both singles and doubles and will practice several different types of serves. Students will have the opportunity to play singles, doubles and cutthroat games throughout the semester and will participate in tournament play towards the end of the term. Throughout the term we will also incorporate some pickleball instruction and games and use the indoor track for warm up for our class activities. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 11 - Swimming II


    Improve technique and develop proficiency in three of the four competitive swimming strokes (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke) through attendance and active class participation.
      Prerequisite(s): Prerequisites: You must be able to swim 100 yards continuously to enroll in this course. You must be able to swim freestyle with adequate proficiency. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 12 - Tennis II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 13 - Intermediate Social Dance


    Continue to develop the dances introduced in Beginning Social Dance: Foxtrot, Waltz, Rumba and East Coast Swing. We will add Tango and Cha Cha into the mix, and explore more advanced techniques to enhance the social dance experience. No partner is required, and all are welcome. Prerequisite(s): PE 03  or instructor approval. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 14 - Karate II


    This course is based on Japanese Shotokan Karate (JKA). Level 1 and level 2 work covers all basic stances, punches, strikes kicks and blocks required for ranking standards of the American Amateur Karate Federation. Students will also learn required partner drills (kumite) designed to build sparring skills as well as forms (kata) required for beginning to intermediate ranks-white through purple belt (8th kyu-5th kyu). Classes are taught in the same manner as at a karate dojo or studio so students are familiar with the etiquette and formality of that type of experience. Classes include stretching warm-ups and are vigorous and aerobic. Students should expect a demanding workout and should inform the teacher (Sensei) of any limitations they may have. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 15 - Fencing II


    (0 Credits)

  
  • PE 16 - Yoga II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 18 - Pilates


    Pilates is a mind-body discipline that uses non-impact exercises designed by Joseph Pilates to develop strength, flexibility, stability, coordination, and physical awareness. Practiced regularly, Pilates improves control and endurance in the entire body. Students learn Pilates breathing, principles, and its progressive repertoire, and how to apply them to correct their own movement patterns. Pilates enhances performance in other athletic activities and also in the activities of daily life. Students are expected to come ready to learn about a new way of moving with awareness. Regular attendance and focused attention are essential; cell phones are not allowed in the class. Dress for movement, but clothing should not be too baggy.  Classes are suitable for students of any level. No prior experience necessary. Pilates exercises can be modified to benefit all body types and backgrounds. All are welcome!  (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 19 - Conditioning II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 20 - Weight Training


    This class is an introduction to weight training. You will gain knowledge on how to properly use all of the equipment in the Deno Fitness Center. You will learn how to design basic strength workouts to meet your fitness goals. We will discuss the benefits of the different types of exercises and all of the different factors that influence your workout. We will also spend time learning technique and form on free weight exercises. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 21 - Swim for Fitness


    Increase swimming fitness and improve technique through active participation in class. Prerequisite(s): You must be able to swim 300 yards continuously to enroll in this course. You must be able to swim three of the four competitive strokes (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke or butterfly) with adequate proficiency. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 22 - Badminton


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 25 - Triathlon Training


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 26 - Tai Chi Chuan


    In this class you will be introduced to the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi Ch’uan. The forms, comprised of many different postures or movements, are performed slowly and in a relaxed manner. But do not be fooled by the slower pace because you will definitely get a workout .
    Expectations of the class: develop an appreciation of the art of Tai Chi; develop increased coordination of mind and body; be able to demonstrate the correct movements of Yang style tai chi ch’uan. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 27 - Cardio Fitness


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 28 - Pilates II


    Pilates is a mind-body discipline that uses non-impact exercises designed by Joseph Pilates to develop strength, flexibility, stability, coordination, and physical awareness. Practiced regularly, Pilates improves control and endurance in the entire body. Students learn Pilates breathing, principles, and its progressive repertoire, and how to apply them to correct their own movement patterns. Pilates enhances performance in other athletic activities and also in the activities of daily life. Students are expected to come ready to learn about a new way of moving with awareness. Regular attendance and focused attention are essential; cell phones are not allowed in the class. Dress for movement, but clothing should not be too baggy.  Classes are suitable for students of any level. No prior experience necessary. Pilates exercises can be modified to benefit all body types and backgrounds. All are welcome! (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 30 - Golf


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 31 - Scuba Diving


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 33 - Salsa Dance


    This course will introduce students to the basic elements of salsa dancing especially as it is done in nightclubs throughout the world. The course will include basic elements in addition to stylistic differences that may other related Latin dances. The class promises to be a good aerobic workout and will also take place in a variety of formats including: solo, line, partner, and group. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 40 - Self Defense


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 41 - Lifeguard Training


    The primary purpose of the American Red Cross Blended Lifeguarding course is to provide entry level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide professional-level care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over. This is a blended-learning course that requires 20 hours of class session (pool and classroom) and 7 hours of e-learining and computer assignements. Prerequisite(s): Swim 300 yards, demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing (front crawl, breaststroke or a combination is acceptable, back/side-swimming is not allowed); tread water fro 2 minutes using only legs; complete a required timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds. Please see instructor for more information. Offered occasionally. (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 43 - Salsa II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 50 - Tae Kwon Do


    (0 Credits)

  
  • PE 51 - Aqua Aerobics


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 60 - Sport Spectating


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 61 - Water Polo


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 90 - Independent Study


    (1 Credits)


Physics

  
  • PHYS 111 - Contemporary Concepts


    This course is specifically designed for the liberal arts student who desires an essentially non-mathematical, yet wholly faithful, acquaintance with the fundamental concepts of contemporary physics. Topics include special relativity, curved space-time and black holes, the Big Bang universe, light, quantum theory, and elementary particles. These are presented so as to demonstrate the power of “pure thought” and scientific creativity at its best. The underlying assumption of the course is that physics approached as a way of thinking can be vitally relevant and challenging to students of all intellectual persuasions. Three lectures per week in fall and spring. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 112 - Cosmos: Perspectives and Reflections


    This course seeks to acquaint students with recent advances in cosmology, particle physics, nuclear fusion, semiconductors, and genomics. Most of these topics will be presented by experts from major universities and national laboratories. S/SD/N grading only. Alternate years. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 113 - Modern Astronomy I


    This course discusses topics of current interest in astronomy and the physical concepts that lead to our understanding of the Universe. There are three main sections: the Solar System, Celestial Light and Stars, and Galaxies and the Universe. Lectures include the formation of the sun and planets, properties of stars and stellar remnants (like black holes and supernovae), characteristics of our Milky Way and other galaxies, and the formation and fate of the Universe. Prerequisite(s): Basic algebra and trigonometry are recommended. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 114 - Modern Astronomy II


    This survey course is a two-semester sequence (PHYS 113 in the fall semester and PHYS 114 in the spring semester). These courses will cover various topics of interest in astronomy, including: Planets (both within the Solar System and the exploding field of extrasolar planets); the birth life, and death of stars; exotic remnant objects (e.g., white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes); galaxies (including our own Milky Way and external systems); cosmology and the fate of the universe; the “unseen 95%”: dark matter and dark energy; astrobiology and the question of life in the universe. The dramatic change between stellar and galactic physical scales will mark the boundary between the material in the courses. These courses are ideal for students who are curious about the nature of the universe and their place within it. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 113  or permission of instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 120 - Astronomical Techniques


    This laboratory course provides active exercises in astronomical measurement techniques, including telescope and other observations of the night sky (as weather permits). The course is ideal for students who desire hands-on observing experience to complement PHYS 113 , or as a background for advanced observing projects. Prerequisite(s): concurrent or previous registration in PHYS 113  or PHYS 226 . Every year. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 130 - Science of Renewable Energy

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 130 
    This is a course on the current status of the most promising alternative and renewable energy options from a primarily scientific and technological perspective. Current methods of electricity generation and transportation energy sources will be briefly reviewed (fossil fuels, nuclear fission, and hydroelectric), including discussion of their limitations and environmental consequences. The focus of the course will be on understanding the scientific basis of alternative and renewable energy sources, and their promise and technological challenges for wide scale implementation. Biofuels, wind, photovoltaics, concentrated solar power, hydrogen, nuclear fusion, and geothermal will be considered in depth. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 194 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 221 - Introductory Physics I


    Mechanics, heat and sound, including laboratory experiments and extensive demonstrations. Daily lectures and help sessions, three two-hour laboratories per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 226 . Summer Physics Institute only. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 222 - Introductory Physics II


    Electricity and magnetism, light and optics, modern physics, including laboratory experiments and extensive demonstrations. Daily lectures and help sessions, three two-hour laboratories per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 227 . Summer Physics Institute only. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 226 - Principles of Physics I


    A study of motion, including Newton’s Law of Motion, conservation of energy and momentum, rotational kinematics and dynamics, oscillations, waves in elastic media and thermal properties of matter. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 221 . Prerequisite(s): Concurrent or previous registration in MATH 135  or  . Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 227 - Principles of Physics II


    A study of electric charge and currents, electric and magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and geometrical and physical optics. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 222 . Prerequisite(s):   and   (  may also be taken concurrently). Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 294 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 331 - Modern Physics


    This course provides an introductory treatment of the exciting foundations of modern microscopic physics, including special relativity, quantum theory, atomic structure, nuclear structure and elementary particles. The primary goal of the course is to build the solid theoretical foundation in microscopic physics necessary for advanced studies in nearly all science disciplines. In addition to the theoretical treatment of the topics there will be laboratory exercises, which recreate the spirit and excitement of the pioneering experiments. Three lectures, one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 334 - Optics


    Principles of optics and wave phenomena, including the fundamental properties of light, geometrical optics, polarization, interference and diffraction. Laboratory includes basic optical experiments and an independent project. Recent independent projects have included: holography, fiber-optics communications, microwave optics and telescope building. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  or consent of instructor. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 340 - Digital Electronics

    Cross-Listed as  
    A survey of fundamental ideas and methods used in the design and construction of digital electronic circuits such as computers. Emphasis will be on applying the theoretical aspects of digital design to the actual construction of circuits in the laboratory. Topics to be covered include basic circuit theory, transistor physics, logic families (TTL, CMOS), Boolean logic principles, combinatorial design techniques, sequential logic techniques, memory circuits and timing, and applications to microprocessor and computer design.  Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): MATH 137  and permission of instructor. Offered alternate spring semesters. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 348 - Laboratory Instrumentation


    This course is an introduction to laboratory methods that are useful in experimental physics and other laboratory-based disciplines, with an emphasis on computer interfacing techniques. Topics will include basic analog electronics, fundamental instrumentation such as analog-digital converters and digital oscilloscopes, and computer interfacing using LabView. Student will design and construct several significant computer interfacing projects throughout the semester. Since this course provides the foundation for advanced experimental work and research, students should take this course in their sophomore or junior year. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  Spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 350 - Renewable Energy Systems

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 350  
    This course provides an in-depth treatment of the science and engineering of power generation by solar and wind and their integration on the electrical grid using energy storage.  In the first part of the course general aspects of grid energy production will be surveyed.  The focus of the course will be an in-depth treatment of the physics of solar cells, wind turbines, and the most promising energy storage options.  We will conclude with a discussion of current technical and economic issues associated with the wide scale implementation of these technologies.  Not open to students who’ve taken PHYS 130 - Science of Renewable Energy . Prerequisite(s): MATH 137   Alternate spring semesters. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 394 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 440 - Observational Astronomy


    This is an advanced course in astronomical instrumentation, focused on optical observational astronomy. We will discuss the various and developing instrumentation used at the large observatories worldwide, and discuss the important contributions and techniques of space-based research. Computational image-processing techniques are used for exercises in CCD imaging and spectroscopy using the Macalester Observatory facilities, as well as for independent research projects. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 113  and PHYS 120 ; or PHYS 113  and a lab-based upper-division natural science course (e.g., PHYS 331 , CHEM 311 ). Alternate years, spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 443 - Electromagnetic Theory


    This course treats the interactions between electrical charges in free space by developing the concepts of potential, electric and magnetic fields, and electromagnetic induction. Maxwell’s equations are developed and used to derive the properties of plane electromagnetic waves in free space. Special emphasis is placed on boundary value problems and other useful mathematical techniques. Three lectures, 1 one-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  and    Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 444 - Electromagnetic Radiation


    This course extends the treatment of PHYS 443 to the electromagnetic properties of matter, especially the solid state, and the properties of electromagnetic waves and radiation. The treatment of electromagnetism within the special theory of relativity is also covered. Three lectures, 1 one-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 443 . Alternate years, spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 460 - Astrophysics


    This course covers advanced topics in astrophysics. It includes spectroscopy of stars, the interaction of light and matter in stellar atmospheres and interstellar medium, nucleosynthesis and the interior of stars, the structure of the Milky Way galaxy and the evidence for dark matter, properties and the formation of different types of galaxies, large-scale structure of the Universe, and observational tests of cosmology. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 113  and PHYS 331 , or consent of the instructor. Alternate years, spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 461 - Mechanics


    The fundamental principles of classical mechanics are discussed and applied to problems of contemporary interest. Topics include: charged particle motion in electromagnetic fields, oscillations and resonance, central force motion including the Kepler problem and Rutherford scattering, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical dynamics, symmetry and conservation laws, non-inertial reference frames, rigid body dynamics and applications, and an introduction to non-linear dynamics. Three lectures, problem discussions, and 1 one-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  and    Spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 468 - Statistical Mechanics


    This course explores the equilibrium and kinetic properties of many-particle systems such as gases, liquids, and solids. The fundamental notions of entropy, temperature, and the Boltzmann relation are rigorously derived from statistical mechanics, and are used to develop other thermodynamic ideas such as chemical potential and free energy. The theory is applied to classical and quantum systems, including photon gases (black-body radiation), Bose-Einstein condensation, fermion systems such as metals and neutron stars, classical ideal gases, vibrations in solids (phonons), chemical reactions, semiconductors, and transport phenomena.  Three lectures per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 331  and MATH 237 . Spring semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 481 - Quantum Mechanics


    The course rigorously covers many fundamental concepts of non-relativistic quantum mechanics, including the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and Pauli exclusion principle, single- and multi-particle stationary states in one, two, and three dimensions, and quantized angular momentum and spin. Schrodinger equation solutions for atomic and nuclear systems are studied, using differential equation, matrix, and perturbation techniques. Three lectures, 1 one-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 331  and    Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 482 - Advanced Quantum Mechanics


    This course continues the rigorous study of non-relativistic quantum mechanics started in PHYS 481 . Time independent perturbation theory, the variational method, and the WKB approximation are applied to physical systems. Time dependent perturbation theory is developed to investigate emission and absorption of radiation. Entangled states, the EPR paradox, and Bell’s theorem are discussed. Three lectures, 1 one-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 481   Alternate spring semesters. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 488 - Senior Research


    Students in the major concentration in physics select a subject for independent investigation and preparation of a senior thesis. Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Prerequisites: senior standing and departmental approval of the project prior to registration. Prerequisite(s): senior standing and departmental approval of the project prior to registration. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 489 - Physics Seminar


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 494 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 611 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Prerequisite(s): The department chair must approve a written proposal prior to registration and permission of instructor. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 612 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 613 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 614 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 621 - Internship


    Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 622 - Internship


    Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 623 - Internship


    Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 624 - Internship


    Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 631 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 632 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 633 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 634 - Preceptorship


    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 641 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 642 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 643 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 644 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department chair. Every semester. (4 Credits)


Political Science

  
  • GERM 277 - Metaphysics in Secular Thought

    Cross-Listed as POLI 277  and RELI 277  
    A widespread tendency in contemporary Western societies is to associate metaphysics with religion, if not with what is often dismissively called the “irrational.” This course will dismantle this myth by reading closely European philosophy and political theory, mostly since the seventeenth century, in their relation to theology and their reception by twentieth-century critical theory. This will allow us to examine the ways in which secular thought emerges not as an alternative to metaphysics-something which thought cannot supersede anyway-but rather as a different way of dealing with the very same metaphysical questions and issues that concern religion, from the meaning of life to the imminence of death, and from (actual or imagined) guilt to the hope for redemption. We shall endeavor to identify the similarities and differences between the ‘secular’ and the ‘religious’ ways, including their respective relations to rationality. Readings will include: Aristotle, Talal Asad, George Bataille, Walter Benjamin, Kenneth Burke, Richard Dienst, Emile Durkheim, Michel Foucault, Sigmund Freud, Peter Harrison, Jacques Lacan, Karl Marx, Marcel Mauss, Carl Schmitt, Baruch Spinoza, Alberto Toscano, Max Weber, Slavoj Zizek. Prerequisite(s): All readings in English. No pre-knowledge required. Occasionally (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 100 - Foundations of US Politics


    This course introduces the constitutional framework, political culture, branches of government, political behavior, and nongovernmental institutions (e.g. political parties, media, or interest groups) that dynamically shape American politics.  Approaches vary by instructor, potentially including some mix of simulations, class debates, offsite observations, and comparative and critical examinations, but share a common set of objectives: 1) cultivating a broad and conversational understanding of key ideas, issues, and problems particular to American politics through classic and contemporary readings; 2) stimulating further inquiry into how American politics works and why it matters and 3) developing students’ own reasoning, critical thinking, writing, and public speaking skills. This course is principally designed for beginning political science majors and non-majors who have not taken an AP course in US Government and Politics. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 101 - Argument and Advocacy


    Course introduces students to classic principles of argument and advocacy-intellectual practices essential to academic success and effective democratic institutions. Students learn to analyze political arguments and engage in rational decision-making by rigorously evaluating types and use of evidence. Course emphasizes argument advocacy in written and oral assignments. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 120 - Foundations of International Politics


    This course has three broad goals. The first is to develop the foundational knowledge and conceptual literacy necessary to engage with International Relations’ multidimensional concerns. These include issues such as world order, power, hierarchy, political violence, international law, development, religion, human rights, gender, humanitarianism and international organizations (such as the United Nations). The second is to introduce students to the different perspectives or intellectual frameworks for making sense of international relations (also known as global or world politics), including realist, liberal, constructivist, historical materialist, postcolonial and feminist approaches. The third is to encourage students to reflect on some of the ethical issues inherent in both the study and practice of international politics. Emphasis will also be placed on developing a range of critical, analytical, research and writing skills required for the further study of international politics. The course is thus intended to prepare students for advanced work in the field, although it is also appropriate for those merely seeking to satisfy an interest in the study of global politics. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 140 - Foundations of Comparative Politics


    In Comparative Politics we use comparison to analyze political outcomes within and across countries, Why do Mexican presidents exercise strong centralized authority while Brazilian presidents must contend with powerful governors? Why do Muslims and Hindus fight in some Indian states but not in others? Why does Rwanda have such a high proportion of female legislators whereas the U.S. has such a low proportion? When confronted with large-scale protests in their cities, do state security forces in China, Russia, and the United States respond with similar methods or do they differ? Through comparative analysis, students will learn to describe diverse political institutions, to propose explanations for divergent outcomes, and to evaluate scholarly and popular arguments about politics. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 141 - Latin America Through Women’s Eyes

    Cross-Listed as   and  
    Latin American women have overcome patriarchal “machismo” to serve as presidents, mayors, guerilla leaders, union organizers, artists, intellectuals, and human rights activists. Through a mix of theoretical, empirical, and testimonial work, we will explore issues such as feminist challenges to military rule in Chile, anti-feminist politics in Nicaragua, the intersection of gender and democratization in Cuba, and women’s organizing and civil war in Colombia. Teaching methods include discussion, debates, simulations, analytic papers, partisan narratives, lecture, film, poetry, and a biographical essay. This class employs an innovative system of qualitative assessment. Students take the course “S/SD/N with Written Evaluation.” This provides a powerful opportunity for students to stretch their limits in a learning community with high expectations, but without a high-pressure atmosphere. This ungraded course has been approved for inclusion on major/minor plans in Political Science, Latin American Studies, and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 160 - Foundations of Political Theory


    An examination of the evolution of influential political concepts and theories from ancient cultures to the present day, by those writing in/from/to the West. Introduction through textual analysis to historical and contemporary understandings of key terms such as authority, legitimacy, liberty, republicanism, democracy, revolution and “the good.” Additionally, the course provides an introduction to political theory methods of analysis and critique, through the development of skills in reading, critical thinking, and writing. Every year (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 170 - Theories of Rhetoric


    A study of classical and modern rhetorical theories throughout Western history. The course analyzes how each theory defines rhetoric and characterizes the relationship between rhetoric and power, art, truth, emotion, and ethics. Discusses the symbiotic relationship between rhetoric and democracy. Every year. Foundations Courses: Courses numbered in the 100s are Foundations courses. These courses are designed principally for beginning political science majors, as well as non-majors seeking an introduction to the discipline’s various sub-fields. The purpose of these courses is threefold: To provide foundational knowledge of the key actors, structures, institutions and/or historical dynamics relevant to the respective sub-fields; to introduce the major theoretical trends, perspectives and debates that have shaped the evolution of the respective sub-fields; and to begin to develop a range of practical competencies (esp. research/writing skills) essential to further scholarly inquiry within the discipline of political science. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 194 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 200 - Women and American Politics


    This course examines the evolutionary role of women in politics as voters, citizens, candidates, and leaders from the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 to the present. Drawing from a variety of theoretical perspectives, we examine women’s historical and contemporary roles in U.S. politics, investigate and debate a variety of public policy issues of particular concern to women, and explore the intersection of race and gender in U.S. politics. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 202 - Political Participation


    Analysis of institutions and procedures such as parties and elections, and also informal activities such as social movements, interest groups, and community action. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

 

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