May 17, 2024  
2017-2018 Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


  

 

Sociology

  
  • SOCI 455 - Classical Sociological Theory

    4 Credit(s)
    This course will introduce students to both the classic and current sociological theories. Particular emphasis will be placed on sociological theory development from the Enlightenment to the present. In addition, students will closely examine the relationship between historical settings and social issues. Critical to course success will be an under-standing of the importance of these theories to the development of sociology as a discipline. Students will demonstrate the ability to critically analyze course content through written critiques, independent investigations, and directed examinations.

    (on demand)
  
  • SOCI 485 - Political Sociology

    4 Credit(s)
    This course will attempt to answer three questions: (1) what is the source of political ideas and political behavior; (2) which groups control the state institutions and which groups have the most influence on state policies; and (3) what role the state plays in society. The state has a central role in stabilizing society and which groups benefit most from this role will be a topic of investigation. Students will also look at political life and culture of all social classes. Students will demonstrate an understanding of course content through written critiques, independent investigations, and directed examinations. Lecture and small group discussions; extensive reading assignments.

    (fall/odd-numbered years)
  
  • SOCI 490 - Undergraduate Research

    V 2-8 Credit(s)
    Selected topics under faculty supervision.

    Prerequisite(s): SOCI 203 , PHL 122 , or HSTR 200  ; and c/i, c/pc, and c/vc.
    (on demand)
  
  • SOCI 492 - Independent Study

    V 1-4 Credit(s)
    Advanced directed research or study, with emphasis on experiential learning. Students are expected to critically evaluate, analyze, and synthesize selected topics through authorship of an extensive course paper requiring independent archival skills.

    Prerequisite(s): PHL 122  SOCI 203 ,or HSTR 200 ; and c/i, c/pc, and c/vc.
    (on demand)
  
  • SOCI 494 - Seminar/Workshop

    V 1-4 Credit(s)
    Selected topics of interest.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing.
    (spring/odd-numbered years)
  
  • SOCI 498 - Internship/Cooperative Education

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    This option is intended to provide students with an opportunity to incorporate an appropriate extended field experience into their academic program. Field placement options to include all facets of the helping professions.

    Prerequisite(s): SOCI 203 , PHL 122 , or HSTR 200 ; and c/i, c/pc, and c/vc.
    (on demand)
  
  • SOCI 499 - Senior Thesis/Capstone

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    This course is intended as a culminating experience for the social science degree. Working with a faculty advisor, the student will generate a product that demonstrates a competent, independent application of basic sociological research.

    Prerequisite(s): SOCI 203 , PHL 122 , or HSTR 200 ; and c/i, c/pc, and c/vc.
    (on demand)

Statistics

All mathematics courses beyond this level satisfy the Mathematic General Education requirement

Math Proficiency Standards: Prerequisites for all 100-level Math courses is one of the following

  • M095 grade C- or higher
  • C- or higher in any MATH 100 level (or higher) course

All mathematics courses beyond this level satisfy the Mathematic General Education requirement

  • Score of 22 or higher on the Math section of the ACT
  • Score of 520 or higher on the Math section of the SAT; Score of 22 or higher on new SAT.
  • Consent of instructor (c/i)
  • Students may be deemed proficient if they complete a Rigorous High School core including four years of mathematics

  
  • STAT 121 - Probability

    4 Credit(s)
    This course is designed as an introductory course to probability. Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be familiar with basic set theory concepts, combinations and permutation problems, probability distributions, and basic probability computations. The student will also be introduced to calculator or computer technology used in simulating and calculating probabilities. As such, students are required to have a calculator that can compute probability distributions. A calculator from the TI-83/84 family is recommended.

    Math.
    Prerequisite(s): M 095  grade C- or higher; or meet one Math Proficiency standard above; or c/i.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • STAT 217 - Intermediate Statistical Concepts

    4 Credit(s)
    Upon completion of this course, the student should be familiar with the basic concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics. The student should exhibit competence in describing data using measures of central tendency, measures of location, measures of dispersion, and various graphical techniques. The student should be able to compute confidence intervals and test hypotheses regarding population parameters. The student should be familiar with using calculators and computer software to conduct various statistical procedures including one- and two-way analysis of variance, correlation, and various non-parametric tests.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 121  grade C- or higher; or c/i.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • STAT 233 - Biostatistics

    4 Credit(s)
    Upon completion of this course, the student should be familiar with the basic concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics as applied in various areas of biology. The student should exhibit competence in describing data using measures of central tendency, measures of location, measures of dispersion, and various graphical techniques. The student should be able to compute confidence intervals and test hypotheses including derivation of sampling distributions (either theoretical, or derived via bootstrapping or randomization techniques) and the comparison of similar tests using statistical power. The student should be familiar with using calculators and computer software to conduct various statistical procedures including both parametric and nonparametric tests: t-test, sign test, Wilcoxon Rank-sum test, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis test, two-way ANOVA, Friedman k-sample Test, regression, correlation, Chi-square and Kolmogorov-Smirnov Tests.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 121  grade C- or higher; or c/i.
    (fall)
  
  • STAT 335 - Advanced Field Statistics

    4 Credit(s)
    The course will focus on sampling design, statistical analysis, data collection, and the presentation of results. This is a field-based course that will prepare students to conduct research in ecology using statistical techniques appropriate for ecology. In addition to the nonparametric techniques of bootstrapping and randomization, students will learn the basic multivariate, time series, and spatial statistics employed in ecological analysis. Students will learn how to design sampling strategies, implement basic sampling techniques, collect data efficiently, analyze and present their data.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 217  or STAT 233  grade C- or higher; or c/i.
  
  • STAT 391A - Data Mining

    4 Credit(s)
    This course serves as an applied workshop in which students will learn modern data mining techniques to analyze large datasets. Standard techniques of data mining will be covered such as probabilistic classification, decision tree classification, neural network classification, pattern mining, sequence mining, association rules, clustering, hierarchical clustering and spectral clustering. In most cases, this course will be themed so that real data sets are taken from a specific application area (such as ecology, genetics, geology, information science, etc.) and are analyzed and/or modeled using appropriate techniques. In light of this, the techniques students use in these fields will vary from class to class.

    Prerequisite(s): M 210  and STAT 437   grade B- or higher; or c/i.
    (fall/odd-numbered year).
  
  • STAT 420 - Advanced Modeling

    4 Credit(s)
    This course serves as an applied senior-level workshop in which students will learn advanced techniques in modeling. In most cases, this course will be themed so that real data sets are taken from a specific application area (such as ecology, genetics, geology, information science, etc.) and are analyzed and/or modeled using appropriate techniques. In light of this, the techniques students use in these fields will vary from class to class.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 433  and M 210  grade B- or higher; or c/i.
    (fall/odd-numbered year).
  
  • STAT 422 - Mathematical Statistics

    4 Credit(s)
    This course serves as an introduction to mathematical statistics using calculus. Topics to be covered will include random variables, distribution and density functions, joint and conditional distributions, moment generating functions, technique for sums, convergence in distribution, convergence in probability, and the central limit theorem.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 121  and M 172  grade B- or higher; or c/i.
  
  • STAT 433 - Stochastic Modeling

    4 Credit(s)
    This is a course in stochastic processes with emphasis on model building and probabilistic reasoning. Topics to be covered may include a review of elementary probability theory, Poisson processes, discrete and continuous time Markov chains, Brownian motion, random walks, and martingales. Applications will be drawn from the physical, biological, and social sciences. Students will learn hands-on design and construction of working models using appropriate technology. Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be proficient in asking research questions, collecting and arranging data, and designing models to answer the questions asked.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 121  and M 210  grade B- or higher; or c/i.
    (spring/even-numbered years)
  
  • STAT 437 - Introduction to Applied Multivariate Analysis

    4 Credit(s)
    This course serves as an applied workshop in which students will learn both exploratory and inferential statistical techniques to analyze multivariate datasets. Standard techniques of multivariate analysis will be covered, such as principal components analysis, discriminant and canonical variates analysis, multidimensional scaling, principal coordinates analysis, cluster analysis, multiple regression, canonical correlation analysis, factor analysis, path analysis and Mantel’s test. Both parametric and non-parametric approaches to statistical inference will be covered. In most cases, this course will be themed so that real data sets are taken from a specific application area (such as ecology, genetics, geology, information science, etc.) and are analyzed and/or modeled using appropriate techniques. In light of this, the techniques students use in these fields will vary from class to class.

    Prerequisite(s): STAT 217  (or STAT 233 ) and M 210  grade B- or higher; or c/i.
    (fall/ odd-numbered year).

Theatre

  
  • THTR 101 - Introduction to Theatre

    4 Credit(s)
    The basics of drama—including formal theatre, improvisational drama, and narrative film and television—are story, place, audience, and actor. Students actively explore the relationships between these elements in a lab setting, by creating scenes based on selections from literature, current and historical events, cuttings from film scripts, and more. They analyze the purposes of drama, and learn about a variety of “Western” as well as non-European traditions. They study the responsibilities of the actor, script writer, director, and design staff in theatre and film productions. $20 Course Fee.

    Exp. Art.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • THTR 120 - Introduction to Acting I

    4 Credit(s)
    Students apply principles of character creation, stage movement, script analysis, and acting theory for a variety of theatre performances including modern, post-modern, period styles, and dramatic verse. Activities include analyzing, rehearsing, and performing publicly. Students successfully completing this course will demonstrate competency in applying skills of performance to special textual needs including stylized comedy, modern realism, and heightened language. $20 Course Fee.

    Exp. Art.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • THTR 202 - Stagecraft I: Lighting & Costumes

    4 Credit(s)
    Students learn and apply stagecraft design and construction methods in several areas including lighting, stage rigging, set, costume, sound, and stage management. Students develop basic skills in a variety of stage arts by applying learned skills to a specific production. Those who successfully complete the course exhibit competencies in identifying stagecraft problems, devising potential solutions, and putting solutions into practice. $50 Course Fee.

    (fall odd- numbered years)
  
  • THTR 203 - Stagecraft II: Scenery, Props, Special Effects

    4 Credit(s)
    Students will learn the technical processes of creating scenery, properties, and special effects for theatrical productions. They interpret instructor-created designs, and learn strategies for building set and prop items, drops and rigging, lighting, and sound effects, and the like, based on current department sponsored productions and visiting artists’ performances. The develop critical thinking skills and theatre vocabulary by analyzing specific play scripts and creative thinking skills by developing designs for scenes for these plays. Infused topics include safety; budgeting and purchasing; developing schedules; technical directing and stage managing; and careers in the arts. Individually-arranged lab hours are required, rather than emphasis on textbook assignments. Candidates skills and learning are assessed during practical activities in the scene shop; through a plan book which includes analyses and designs, critical self-assessments of their own learning, and lab hour reports $50 Course Fee

    (spring/even years)
  
  • THTR 205 - Theatre Workshop II

    V 1-2 Credit(s) R
    Hands-on learning experience for those interested in becoming involved with performance, technical, and box-office duties within the campus production program. Projects must be designed in consultation with the faculty member in charge. $20 Course Fee.

    Exp. Art.
    R-UP TO FOUR CREDITS (fall/spring)
  
  • THTR 276 - Play Production & Introduction to Directing

    4 Credit(s)
    Students produce and direct a work of dramatic literature for the stage, learning processes of theatre performance through hands-on practice and study. Upon successful completion of this course, students demonstrate basic knowledge and skills in several areas of play production including safety, script selection and analysis, casting, rehearsal, performance, and directing. $50 Course Fee.

    Exp. Art.
    (fall)
  
  • THTR 292 - Independent Study

    V 1-4 Credit(s)
    Directed research or study is conducted on an individual basis. Students design projects in such areas as play analysis, stage design, or theatre history with individual faculty members who guide the research and help the student formulate individualized learning outcomes.

    Prerequisite(s): c/i, c/ pc, and c/vc.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • THTR 401 - Creative Drama/Improvisation

    4 Credit(s)
    With theoretical and practical training in selection of plays scripts and story material, acting, pantopantomime, and simple staging technique students will demonstrate abilities in designing and leading drama activities with youth. Creative drama, reader’s theatre, children’s theatre, and puppetry activities are explored with attention to drama’s use in elementary schools; for junior through senior high youth, students will additionally demonstrate knowledge and practical skills in play production (script selection, casting, budget and publicity, working with volunteer adults, directing rehearsals, technical theatre, and the like. Students will also learn to work with junior and senior high youth in theatre and social change, theatre history; and speech making activities. Students will learn to develop community youth programs.

    (fall/odd-numbered years)
  
  • THTR 435 - Story Telling

    4 Credit(s)
    This course focuses on the traditions, forms, and methods of oral storytelling. Students study tales and techniques from a variety of cultures, practice many genre of stories and styles of telling. Upon completion of this course students will have researched tales from many culture and time periods, practiced performing for several audience types and ages, know effective story content, practice skills in communicating clearly and expressively, both in “first and “third” person formats. Students will understand the oral tradition, including the “uses of story-telling throughout history. They will each develop several story scripts, and as culminating project, present a public performance for you audiences and a public performance for adult audiences. They demonstrate their understanding new technologies to film and present their pieces over the internet, and use the internet to research contemporary story-tellers and communicate with them about their techniques. They will demonstrate knowledge of group story-telling such as readers’ theatre. They will demonstrate an understanding of effective costume pieces and lighting effects to enhance their storytelling. They will demonstrate skills in speaking with a variety of accents. Students will critically analyze their own story-telling as well as the work of others. .

    Prerequisite(s): c/i.
    (spring/ even-numbered years)
  
  • THTR 492 - Independent Study

    V 1-4 Credit(s)
    Directed research or study by an individual student that extends beyond the scope of the listed catalog offerings. The study is devised by the student in collaboration with a Drama department advisor. Learner outcomes are determined on a case-by-case basis according to the individual student’s needs and interests, as well as the topic of study.

    Prerequisite(s): c/i and c/vc.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • THTR 494 - Seminar/Workshop

    V 1-4 Credit(s) R
    Selected topics of interest are explored in seminar fashion. Student learning outcomes are dependent upon the topics of exploration and arranged by individual students in consultation with the faculty member in charge.

    Prerequisite(s): c/i and c/pc.
    (on demand)
  
  • THTR 498 - Internship/Cooperative Education

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    This experience incorporates an appropriate work experience into the student’s academic preparation. Students exhibit knowledge and skills in linking their academic training to the “real world”.

    Prerequisite(s): Senior standing and c/i.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • THTR 499 - Senior Thesis/Capstone

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    An individual project or thesis closely associated with the student’s academic program and career goals. Learner outcomes are devised collaboratively by the student with the project or thesis advisor. Project/thesis election is subject to approval of the project/thesis advisor.

    Prerequisite(s): Senior standing and c/i.
    (fall/spring)

Fish and Wildlife Science and Management

  
  • WILD 471 - Wildlife Ecology & Management

    4 Credit(s)
    This course will provide students with a foundation in the science of wildlife biology. The theory portions of the course will cover the fundamentals of wildlife science including the following: wildlife census techniques, wildlife population dynamics, experimental design of field studies, data collection and analysis, decimating factors (predation, hunting, disease, accidents, and starvation), welfare factors (forage, water, cover, and special factors), wildlife administration and law, habitat management and alteration (farm and rangelands, forests, national parks, wildlife refuges, and urban environments), exotic species, endangered species management of game and non-game species, and the economics of wildlife. The field portion of the course will include projects designed by students to engage them in looking at the realities, the difficulties, and sometimes the thrill of field research in wildlife biology. An additional and significant goal of the course will be to expose students to the primary wildlife literature. Students will be assessed based on written exams, data analyses, the ability to function as a team to develop effective project proposals and work in field/laboratory settings collecting and analyzing data, demonstrations of written and oral communications skills in chapter discussions and group project presentations, and the quality of field notebooks. $200 Course Fee.

    Prerequisite(s): BIOB 170 , and either STAT 217  or STAT 233 ; or c/i.
    (fall/even-numbered years)
  
  • WILD 473 - Fisheries Ecology & Management

    4 Credit(s)
    This course will expose students to the diversity, adaptations, and ecology of fishes. Field activities will focus on the collection and analysis of data on fish populations and communities. Professional fisheries biologists will expose students to the theory and practice of fisheries management. Laboratory activities include the microscopic examination of the internal and external anatomy of preserved and collected whole fish specimens, along with the physiology and behavior of live fish. A field-based team project that will result in a written report and oral presentation. Students will be assessed based on written exams, data analyses, the ability to function as a team to develop effective project proposals and work in field/laboratory settings collecting and analyzing data, demonstrations of written and oral communication skills in chapter discussions and group project demonstrations, and the quality of field notebooks. $250 Course Fee.

    Prerequisite(s): BIOB 170 , and either STAT 217  or STAT 233 ; or c/i.
    (fall/odd-numbered years)
  
  • WILD 498 - Internship/Cooperative Education

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    Incorporation of an appropriate work experience into the student’s academic preparation.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior/Senior standing and c/i.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • WILD 499 - Senior Thesis/Capstone

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    An individual project or thesis closely associated with the student’s academic program and career goals. Project/thesis election subject to approval of Biology department advisor.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior/Senior standing, c/i, c/pc, and c/vc.
    (fall/spring)

Welding

  
  • WLDG 109 - Fundamentals of Welding

    3 Credit(s)
    This course will examine the different processes used combining and processing metals in industry today. The class provides an introduction to the most common types of cutting and welding procedures. The cutting processes examined in this course are Oxy Fuel, Plasma Arc and Carbon Arc cutting Students will have hands-on experience using different welding processes such as Shielded Metal Arc Welding, oxygen Acetylene welding, Gas Metal Art Welding, and Gas Tungsten Art Welding. Students will receive training using manufacturers’ safety recommendations for individual equipment. Students will learn to identify and follow safe work practices as well s inspections of power equipment (portable and stationary), hand tools, and also demonstrate the safe and proper use of each tool. Hands-on training will be administered throughout this course to ensure that proper technique and safety measures are met with all above mentioned processes.

    Prerequisite(s): IT 130 or DFT 150.
    (spring)

Writing

Note: credit for WRIT 095  is not applicable to graduation; credit may not count as part of load for financial aid purposes; credit may not count as part of load for eligibility purposes. Grades, honor/grade points, or credits for WRIT 095  are not used in calculation of the GPA.

  
  • WRIT 095 - Developmental Writing

    4 Credit(s)
    WRIT 095/WRIT 101 (co-req) provides students with two consecutive blocks of writing practice. This additional time, and a class size limited to 15, will help students build confi dence in their writing and their ideas. Through the composition of multiple draft essays, students will learn how to defi ne a clear purpose in writing, become fl uent for an academic audience, develop and sustain logical reasoning, construct eff ective essays with a focused thesis, experience the importance of drafting, revising, and peer editing, incorporate source material using MLA documentation, develop critical reading, thinking, and speaking skills, and create an engaging voice that gives personal authority to their writing and speaking. A variety of teaching and learning practices are included in this course: e.g., traditional lecture, oral readings, group discussions, creative and/or analytical writing, listening activities, oral and/or dramatic presentations, visits with authors, interviews, internet and off -campus activities, research practice, etc. 

    Corequisite(s): WRIT 095/WRIT 101 (co-req) provides students with two consecutive blocks of writing practice.

    (fall/spring)
  
  • WRIT 101 - College Writing I

    4 Credit(s)
    This course is designed to be a celebration of the varieties of written and oral communication. Students will immerse themselves in language, to experience its range of expression. They will recognize the power of language to influence the world and to define the individual. Students will be provided opportunities to explore and express the possibilities language offers to influence others and to explore students’ own individuality. This course will examine the symbiotic relationship between spoken and written language. Emphasis will be on personal expression, clear communication for selected purposes, the writing of essays, drafting and revising processes with attention to organization, style, and critical thinking, and critical reading and listening skills. Techniques will include discussion, improvisation, peer and instructor response, and self-evaluation.

    Writ/Oral Comm.
    Prerequisite(s): Writing Proficiency Standard, or WRIT 095  grade C- or higher.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • WRIT 305 - Advanced Essay Writing

    4 Credit(s)
    This course is intended for English students who wish to develop further their abilities as readers and writers of nonfiction.

    Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101 .
    (spring/even-numbered years)
  
  • WRIT 313 - Writing for Publication

    4 Credit(s)
    This course provides an examination of the process of writing for publication and the practice of publishing commercial nonfiction. This is a class in freelance writing and editing—covering topics such as writing query letters, performing market analysis, workshopping article drafts, conducting interviews, etc. As part of their study of commercial writing, students will write for a range of publications, including traditional magazines and webzines.

    Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101 ; or c/i.
    (fall/odd-numbered years)
  
  • WRIT 321 - Advanced Technical Writing

    4 Credit(s)
    This course builds upon reading, writing, and public speaking skills introduced in WRIT 101. It intensively surveys varieties and strategies of written and oral presentations common in contemporary work settings including technical writing, editing, small group communications, and PowerPoint presentations, among others. The course is designed to refine students’ abilities in oral communications and broaden their repertoire of writing styles.

    Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101 ; or c/i.
    (spring/odd-numbered years)
  
  • WRIT 322 - Advanced Business Writing

    4 Credit(s)
    Students will learn and integrate fundamental principles and inter-relationships within the context of real-world business communication issues. The course emphasizes an understanding of the important methods, terms, theories, and findings in the field of Management Communications. The course will cover technological communications and communicating in intercultural and international contexts. The course will provide experiential instruction through active participation in an interactive classroom environment. The teaching methodology will focus on motivating students in gaining impact assessment of their communications, using a variety of instructional, assessment, and foundation techniques. Assessment will be through written exams, evaluation of field-based and classroom assignments, and presentations.

    Prerequisite(s): BUS 217 ; or c/i.
    (fall)
  
  • WRIT 429 - Professional Writing

    4 Credit(s)
    Professional Writing is intended for students who already have considerable skill and experience in expository writing. The course focuses on professional writing that is designed to be read by the general public and/or a specialized audience. Significant study is devoted to the practice of professional freelance writing, from the analysis of job opportunities through the crafting of query letters and other pitches to the work of traditional and non-traditional publication.

    (Spring even-numbered years)
  
  • WRIT 430 - Technological Literacy

    4 Credit(s)
    This course focuses on technologies of literacy, from the rise of the written word in the ancient Mediterranean world to the rise of visual culture online. In addition to taking part in a range of classroom activities, including lectures and group projects, and completing out-of-class reading assignments, students will deliver presentations and craft multiple written products (e.g., research papers, blogs, zine articles, etc.).

    Prerequisite(s): WRIT 101 ; or c/i.
    (fall/even-numbered years)
  
  • WRIT 498 - Internship/Cooperative Education

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    This experience incorporates an appropriate work experience into students’ academic preparation. Students apply their knowledge and skills in professional settings under supervision.

    Prerequisite(s): Senior standing, c/i, c/pc, and c/vc.
    (fall/spring)
  
  • WRIT 499 - Senior Project/Thesis

    V 1-15 Credit(s)
    An individual project or thesis closely associated with the student’s academic program and career goals. Student works with one selected faculty member.

    Prerequisite(s): Senior standing, c/i, c/pc, and c/ vc.
    (fall/spring)
 

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