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2018-2019 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Search
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Philosophy |
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PHI 102 - Symbolic Logic 4 credits (Fall)
A study of the formalization of complex arguments, in particular those involving quantification and relations, using principles of deduction in sentential and predicate logic. Course may also explore the semantics of the formal system.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Fennell
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PHI 106 - Contemporary Ethical Issues 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Designed to develop the ability to think philosophically about moral issues by examining ethical problems. Topics may include gender, abortion, class, race, affirmative action, and the environment. The course also examines some leading ethical and/or social theories in conjunction with these topics.
Prerequisite: None.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: J. Dobe, Neisser, Nyden
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PHI 111 - Introduction to Philosophy 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
Designed to develop the habit of philosophical thinking by pursuing perennial problems as raised and developed throughout the history of philosophy. Readings include selections from Plato, Descartes, Hume, Kant, and other thinkers, including an introductory section on some basic principles of logical thinking.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Staff
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PHI 135 - Philosophy and Literature 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Cross-listed as: GLS 135 . A general introduction to philosophical issues and topics through works of fiction. Readings include novels, short stories, and drama by Aeschylus, Sophocles, Voltaire, Goethe, Dostoevsky, Ibsen, Sartre, Camus, Borges, Kafka, Duras, Piercy, and others.
Prerequisite: None.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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PHI 161 - The Nature of Money 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Money can be anything in human culture that functions as a unit of account, store of value, and medium of exchange. But this makes the following question notoriously difficult to answer: what is money? In this course, we investigate the nature of what has been called money, making use of historical, philosophical, and anthropological materials to approach the metaphysical, epistemological, and political problems caused by the ambiguous nature of money.
Prerequisite: None
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Ramey
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PHI 215 - Existentialism 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A study of the major existentialist thinkers of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Sartre, Merleau-Ponty, Camus, and others. Readings will include philosophical and literary texts that explore issues including the nature of the self and its relations with others, freedom and responsibility, anxiety, transcendence, ambiguity, and the absurd.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Neisser
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PHI 231 - History of Ancient Philosophy 4 credits (Fall)
Cross-listed as: CLS 231 . A study of the philosophy of ancient Greece and Rome. Traces the growth of Western philosophy from its origins in the sixth century BCE through the third century CE. Includes examination of the Presocratics, Sophists, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Epicureans, Stoics, Sceptics, and Plotinus.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 or HUM 101 .
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: J. Cummins
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PHI 233 - History of Early Modern Philosophy 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A study of the intellectual world of the early modern period. Readings may include works by Descartes, Hobbes, Anne Conway, Princess Elizabeth, Leibniz, Spinoza, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant. Particular attention will be given to the complex relations between philosophy, science, religion, and politics during this period.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Foreign language option available in French or German for course and +2.
Instructor: Nyden, J. Dobe
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PHI 234 - 19th-Century Continental Philosophy 4 credits (Fall)
Survey of the major figures in 19th-century philosophy, emphasizing themes that lead to developments in 20th-century phenomenology, existentialism, and poststructuralism. Readings include selections from Hegel’s Phenomenology, Kierkegaard’s writings, Marx’s philosophical and political works, several texts of Nietzsche, and short works from the hermeneutic tradition.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Plus-2 option available.
Foreign language option available in French or Russian for course and +2.
Instructor: Ramey
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PHI 235 - 20th-Century Continental Philosophy 4 credits (Spring)
Examination of the major themes in phenomenology, existentialism, hermeneutics, poststructuralism, and feminism. Readings may include works by Husserl, Heidegger, Habermas, Merleau-Ponty, Sartre, Beauvoir, Derrida, Foucault, Lyotard, and Cixous. Special attention will be focused on connections between philosophy and recent developments in humanities and social sciences.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Plus-2 option available.
Foreign language option available in French, Dutch or Latin for course and +2.
Instructor: Ramey
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PHI 242 - Ethical Theory 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Examination of several problems that arise in ethical theory. Questions included for consideration are the identity of the moral self, the issues of moral relativism and how to ground norms, the question of the nature of the virtues and their relationship to one another, and the question of whether gender might be morally significant.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: J. Dobe
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PHI 245 - Philosophy of Art 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Designed as a survey of theories of art and beauty, this course acquaints students with influential aesthetic theories in the history of Western philosophy and relates them to more recent theoretical developments in the arts.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 ; courses in the arts emphasizing theoretical issues may substitute for PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: J. Dobe
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PHI 253 - Philosophy of Mind 4 credits (Fall)
Examination of several issues in philosophy of mind. Topics include the metaphysics of mind (the mind-body problem, dualism, functionalism, eliminativism, and the computer paradigm), intentionality (internalism and externalism), and consciousness (subjectivity, the nature of qualitative experience). Readings from Descartes, Ryle, Smart, D. Lewis, Putnam, Dennett, Quine, Davidson, Searle, Churchland, Fodor, and Nagel.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Fennell, Neisser
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PHI 254 - Metaphysics 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Examination of several issues in metaphysics, with an emphasis on contemporary discussions in the Anglo-American tradition. Topics may include, among others: freedom and determinism, personal identity, causality, materialism vs. idealism, realism vs. anti-realism, mereology (part vs. whole), modality (necessity and possibility), universals and particulars, substance, time and identity. On occasion, the semester may be devoted to a more extensive examination of a single metaphysical problem. Readings will vary depending on the problems addressed. With approval from the department chair, may be taken more than once if the topic has changed sufficiently.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Fennell, Neisser, Nyden
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PHI 255 - History of Scientific Thought 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
This course focuses on scientific change in 16th and 17th-century Europe — what is often called “the scientific revolution.” Particular attention will be paid to the relationships between science, philosophy, religion, and politics. We will focus on three incompatible alternatives to the Aristotelian science taught in the universities: that of Bacon, Galileo, and Descartes. Next we will turn our attention to Boyle, who attempted to consolidate these alternatives into one coherent program called mechanical or corpuscular philosophy. We will end our historical study with an examination of arguably the most important scientific figure of the period, Isaac Newton. The course will end with the larger philosophical question of what a scientific revolution is and whether the events of early modern Europe qualify.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Nyden
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PHI 256 - Philosophy of Language and Cognition 4 credits (Spring)
A survey of the major issues in contemporary philosophy of language, as well as an examination of the major assumptions of empirical theories of language and cognition. Readings include works by Frege, Russell, Carnap, Ayer, Wittgenstein, Kripke, Putnam, Quine, Davidson, and Chomsky. Topics include theories of meaning, the nature of reference, and the cognitivist approach to mind and language.
Prerequisite: PHI 102 or PHI 111 , or LIN 114 .
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Fennell
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PHI 257 - Philosophy of Science 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
An examination of the foundations of scientific inference (induction and confirmation), the nature of scientific explanation, the structure of theories, and scientific methodology. Discussion includes the possibility of objective knowledge and the nature of scientific revolutions.
Prerequisite: PHI 102 or PHI 111 , or background in a science.
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Fennell, Neisser, Nyden
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PHI 258 - Classical and Contemporary American Pragmatism 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A study of the major figures in classical and contemporary American pragmatism. Topics included for consideration are: what is the pragmatic method; how does it engage traditional philosophical questions; and what is its relation to other key philosophical approaches, such as logical positivism and realism. Readings may include selections from Peirce, James, Dewey, Mead, C.I. Lewis, Carnap, Ayer, Quine, Davidson, Rorty, Putnam, and Nagel.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Fennell
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PHI 261 - Philosophy of Race and Gender 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
This course examines the relationship between modern conceptions of race and gender from philosophical perspectives that may include historical materialism, phenomenology, critical theory, postcolonial theory, and whiteness studies. We will study the social construction of race and gender, as well as the way these concepts inform theories of the subject. Finally, we will consider how race and gender identities have become sites for pleasure, creativity, and productivity.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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PHI 263 - Political Theory I 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Cross-listed as: POL 263 and CLS 263 . A selective introduction to the major concepts and themes of Western political philosophy from classical Greece to the Renaissance. Topics may include: human nature, the basis of society, the purpose and justification of government, types of government and their relative merits, the function of law, political virtues, and the civic role of religion.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 , POL 101 , HIS 255 , CLS 255 , HIS 257 , CLS 257 , HIS 258 , CLS 258 , HUM 101 , HUM 102 , HUM 140 , or SST 140
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: J. Cummins
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PHI 264 - Political Theory II 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
Cross-listed as: POL 264 . A study of the central themes and concepts articulated by political theorists since Machiavelli. Focus will be on theories of human nature, social relationships, conceptions of justice, and the operations of power. May be repeated once for credit when content changes.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 or POL 101 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Plus-2 option available.
Foreign language option available in any language for course and +2.
Instructor: Meehan
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PHI 265 - Psychoanalysis and the Intersubjective Constitution of the Self 4 credits (Fall)
This class will consider the psychic/social processes of the constitution of the self. We will read highly theoretical texts from the psychoanalytic tradition, including works by Freud, Jessica Benjamin, Judith Butler, Hortense Spillers, Steven Mitchell, and Cornelius Castoriadis. We will study the way gender, race, and class become aspects of our individual and collective psychic identities, consider the role of power in the constitution of identity, and search for possibilities of individual and social psychic resistance.
Prerequisite: PHI 111 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Meehan
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PHI 268 - Cultural Critique: Marx, Nietzsche, Freud, and Beyond 4 credits (Fall)
Students begin by examining several key texts of the 19th century by Marx, Nietzsche, and Freud that lay the groundwork for the “Critique of Ideology” that has evolved in the 20th century into the interdisciplinary field of “Cultural Critique.” Focusing on thinkers who have fused the critical perspectives of Marx, Nietzsche, and Freud, students explore the works of the Frankfurt School (Adorno, Marcuse, Benjamin), structuralism (Althusser, Bataille), and poststructuralism (Foucault, Deleuze, Agamben, Butler).
Prerequisite: PHI 111 ; and one 200-level course in Philosophy, Political Science, or History.
Note: Not offered every year.
Plus-2 option available.
Foreign language option available in any language for course and +2.
Instructor: Ramey
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PHI 271 - Neurophilosophy 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
This course examines the current “neuroscientific image” of mind and person, investigating the conceptual and ethical issues it raises. Neurophilosophy involves both the application of neurobiological findings to philosophical questions and the application of philosophical critique to the findings of neuroscience. Questions include: What is the neural basis of mental representation, consciousness, and the self? Is psychology reducible to neurobiology? What legal and ethical issues attend the new techniques of neural monitoring and intervention?
Prerequisite: PHI 111 ; courses in neuroscience may substitute for PHI 111 with consent of the instructor.
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Neisser
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PHI 336 - Contemporary French Philosophy 4 credits (Spring)
A detailed study of French philosophy since 1960. Possible topics include structuralism, deconstruction, poststructuralism, and postmodernism. Focus on issues of interdisciplinary concern, addressing questions of textuality, psychoanalysis, and politics. Readings may include works by Foucault, Derrida, Deleuze, Lyotard, Cixous, and Irigaray, among others. May be repeated for credit if content changes. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: PHI 234 , or PHI 235 , or PHI 268 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Ramey
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PHI 391 - Advanced Studies in Continental Philosophy 4 credits (Spring)
An advanced investigation of a single author, text, issue, or problem in continental philosophy. Content of the course announced each year. With permission of instructor, may be repeated for credit when content changes. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: Prerequisites will vary depending on topic; at least one 200-level course.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Meehan, Ramey
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PHI 392 - Advanced Studies in Anglo-American Philosophy 4 credits (Fall)
An advanced investigation of a topic, text, or author in the analytic or Anglo-American tradition. Content of the course announced each year. With permission of instructor, may be repeated for credit when content changes. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: Prerequisites will vary depending on topic; at least one 200-level course.
Instructor: Fennell, Neisser
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PHI 393 - Advanced Studies in History of Philosophy 4 credits (Fall)
An advanced investigation of a single author, text, issue, or problem in the history of philosophy. Content of the course announced each year. With permission of instructor, may be repeated for credit when content changes. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: Prerequisites will vary depending on topic; at least one 200-level philosophy course.
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: J. Cummins, J. Dobe, Nyden
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PHI 394 - Advanced Studies in Theories of Value 4 credits (Spring)
An advanced investigation of a single author, text, issue, or problem that addresses theories of value (ethics, politics, aesthetics, interdisciplinary studies). Content of the course announced each year. With permission of instructor, may be repeated for credit when content changes. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: Prerequisites will vary depending on topic; at least one 200-level philosophy course.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Meehan
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PHI 491 - Senior Essay 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
The preparation and writing of an original piece of philosophical work, not to exceed 7,500 words in length, based upon primary or secondary sources. Seniors must obtain approval of a department member as adviser for the essay and the department chair before the end of the semester preceding that during which the essay will be written.
Prerequisite: Senior standing.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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Physical Education: Activity Program Courses |
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PHE 100 - Physical Education Activity Instruction (Practica) Variable credits (Fall or Spring)
1/2 or 1 credit (See schedule of courses for credit option)
| Aerobics |
Introductory Kayaking |
| Advanced Baseball |
Lifeguard Training |
| Advanced Racquetball |
Pickleball |
| Advanced Tennis |
Power Walking |
| Advanced Weightlifting |
Rock Climbing |
| Basketball Skills |
Spinning |
| Beginning Racquetball |
Standard First Aid |
| Beginning Swimming |
Swimming Technique |
| Beginning Tennis |
Training for Your First 5K |
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Triathlon Training |
| Bowling |
Volleyball |
| Cardio Core |
Water Aerobics |
| Conditioning |
Wellness |
| Floor Hockey |
Women’s Health |
| Golf |
Yoga |
| Indoor Soccer |
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Note: May be taken without credit. S/D/F only.
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PHE 101 - Sport Performance: Intercollegiate Competitive (Practica) 1/2 per season credits (Fall and Spring)
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For women: |
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| Baseball |
Indoor Track |
Basketball |
Soccer |
| Basketball |
Outdoor Track |
Cross Country |
Softball |
| Cross Country |
Soccer |
Golf |
Swimming |
| Football |
Swimming |
Indoor Track |
Tennis |
| Golf |
Tennis |
Outdoor Track |
Volleyball |
Note: May be taken without credit. S/D/F only.
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Physical Education: Theory Courses |
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PHE 112 - Outdoor Leadership 2 credits (Spring)
This 1/2 semester course focuses on the more theoretical aspects of outdoor leadership. It does not cover activity skills. Topics include trip planning, minimum impact, learning theory, group dynamics, thinking critically in the outdoors, skill matching, risk management, and navigation. There will be labs in navigation and teaching.
Prerequisite: None. Speaking with the professor prior to registration is suggested.
S/D/F only.
Instructor: Zeiss
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PHE 200 - Organization and Administration of Athletics 4 credits (Fall)
Lecture and discussion concerning the function, organization, and administration of an athletic program. Includes philosophy and psychology of coaching.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Arseneault, Pedersen, Madara
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PHE 202 - Coaching Methods 4 credits (Spring)
A comprehensive study of the components of coaching. Areas of emphasis include: philosophy of coaching; sport psychology; exercise science; practice planning; athletic management; and sport-specific training of tactics and techniques. Geared toward coaching youth and high school athletes. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a coaching endorsement from the American Sport Education Program (ASEP).
Prerequisite: None.
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Hollibaugh
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PHE 211 - Foundations of Athletic Training 4 credits (Spring)
Specific to rehabilitation and the care and prevention of athletic injuries. Lectures plus laboratory sections.
Prerequisite: CPR/First Aid.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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PHE 213 - Lifeguard Instructor Training 2 credits (Spring)
This course is an advanced American Red Cross course providing students American Red Cross Instructor Authorization for Lifeguarding. Upon successful completion, student will be trained to teach basic-level Lifeguarding (including First Aid), Lifeguard Management and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer.
Prerequisite: Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification
Note: Not offered every year. S/D/F only
Instructor: Hurley
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PHE 235 - Psychological Foundations of Sport 4 credits (Spring)
An overview of various psychological concepts underlying sports performance. Pertinent social and philosophical issues also addressed. Topics include personality, anxiety and arousal, motivation, self-efficacy and confidence, individual and group dynamics, cohesion, and various cognitive intervention strategies.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: W. Freeman
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PHE 236 - The Role of Sport in Society 4 credits (Spring)
The study of sport can be accomplished in many ways. At Grinnell College we approach the task from a social studies method. The faculty members who teach the sport courses are members of the physical education department, a part of the College’s social sciences division. The goal of the course is to offer students a theoretical base to study sport from a sociological standpoint and then to provide opportunity for students to engage in that study through various topics and exercises. At any given iteration of this course, there may be two or three professors teaching it and taking the students down different paths, depending on the background and interest areas of the faculty members. Topics of current focus are sport sociology theory and research, sport and the media, sports and athletic experience through the lens of gender, sex, and sexuality, the changing face of sport in 1960s America (race and class), the role of international sport and the Olympics, competition vs. cooperation.
Prerequisite: PHE 100 or second-semester standing.
Instructor: Freeman, Hamilton
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Physics |
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PHY 109 - Physics in the Arts 4 credits
An investigation of a variety of physical principles that have interesting applications to musical acoustics and the visual arts. Topics include simple vibrating systems, musical instruments, Fourier analysis, light and color, optics, and photography. Intended primarily for nonscience majors. Laboratory work allows students to investigate phenomena firsthand. Three lectures, one laboratory each week.
Prerequisite: None.
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Cunningham
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PHY 115 - How to Learn Physics 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
See EDU 115 .
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PHY 116 - The Universe and Its Structure 4 credits (Fall)
Descriptive astronomy, covering the tools and methods of astronomy, the solar system, the stars, and the structure of the galaxy and the universe.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Kempton, Christensen
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PHY 131 - General Physics I 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
This course is the first part of a yearlong, calculus-based introductory physics sequence, focusing on the application of physical principles, logical reasoning, and mathematical analysis to understand a broad range of natural phenomena related to force and motion. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, conservation principles, gravity, and oscillation. This course meets for six hours each week and involves both classroom and laboratory work.
Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 124 or MAT 131 .
Instructor: Staff
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PHY 132 - General Physics II 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
This course is the second part of a yearlong, calculus-based introductory physics sequence, focusing on the application of physical principles, logical reasoning, and mathematical analysis to understand a broad range of electromagnetic phenomena. Topics include electricity, magnetism, light, and early atomic theory. This course meets for six hours each week and involves both classroom and laboratory work.
Prerequisite: PHY 131 and MAT 124 or MAT 131 . Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 133 is recommended.
Instructor: Staff
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PHY 180 - Bridges, Towers, and Skyscrapers 4 credits (Spring)
An investigation of large man-made structures (e.g., Brooklyn Bridge, Eiffel Tower, and Hancock Tower/Chicago), considering structural, social, and aesthetic aspects. The relationship between a structure’s form and its function is examined. Concepts from physics necessary for the quantitative analysis are presented. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: MAT 124 or MAT 131 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Cunningham, Kempton
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PHY 220 - Electronics 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A course in modern electronics, emphasizing the use of integrated circuits. Topics include analog electronics, primarily the design of circuits based on operational amplifiers; digital electronics, including logic circuits, counters, and timers; and microcontroller interfacing using software written in low-level languages and C. Two lectures, two laboratories each week.
Prerequisite: PHY 132 , and some computer programming experience, and second-year standing.
Instructor: Tjossem, Cunningham
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PHY 232 - Modern Physics 4 credits (Fall)
For students with an introductory physics background who wish to extend their knowledge of atomic, nuclear, and solid-state physics. Emphasis on the basic phenomena and fundamental physics principles involved in special relativity and quantum mechanics and their subsequent application to atomic, nuclear, and solid state models. Three classes, one laboratory each week.
Prerequisite: PHY 131 and PHY 132 Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 215
Instructor: Cunningham, Willig-Onwuachi
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PHY 234 - Mechanics w/Lab 4 credits (Spring)
A study of analytical mechanics, including Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms of particle dynamics, rigid body motion, and harmonic oscillations. Numerical methods laboratory taught in python.
Prerequisite: PHY 131 and PHY 132 . Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 220 .
Instructor: Christensen
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PHY 310 - Computational Physics 2 credits (Fall)
An active-learning introduction to computing in physics. Class is taught in the laboratory, with each class session dedicated to a particular topic. These topics include investigations of numerical algorithms for integration, matrix manipulations, Fourier transforms, data fitting, and Monte Carlo methods.
Prerequisite: PHY 234 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Tjossem
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PHY 314 - Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A study of thermodynamics from classical and statistical points of view. Applications of Maxwell-Boltzmann, Fermi-Dirac, and Bose-Einstein distributions are used to provide an introduction to solid-state physics and quantum optics.
Prerequisite: PHY 232 and MAT 220 .
Instructor: Kempton
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PHY 335 - Electromagnetic Theory 4 credits (Fall)
An advanced treatment of electric and magnetic fields and potentials, including the laws of Coulomb, Ampere, and Faraday, Maxwell’s equations, and electromagnetic waves.
Prerequisite: PHY 234 .
Instructor: Hasegawa
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PHY 337 - Optics Wave Phenomena 4 credits (Spring)
A wide variety of physical problems — including one- and two-dimensional mechanical oscillating systems, sound, and optical phenomena — are examined using the theory of waves. The primary emphasis is on physical optics (interference and diffraction phenomena). Three lectures, one laboratory each week.
Prerequisite: PHY 335 .
Instructor: Cunningham, Willig-Onwuachi
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PHY 340 - Topics in Astrophysics 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
An examination of topics in astrophysics from theoretical and observational perspectives with an emphasis on student engagement with current research. Topics include, but are not limited to, combinations of the following: planetary astrophysics, stellar astrophysics, compact stellar remnamts, galactic astrophysics, relativity and gravitational waves, and cosmology. May be repeated for credit when content changes. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: PHY 232 .
Instructor: Christensen, L. Rodriquez
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PHY 360 - Solid State Physics 2 credits (Fall)
An introduction to the physics of crystalline solids, such as metals, semiconductors, and insulators. This course presents models of the crystal lattice, lattice vibrations, and electronic band structures, as well as a brief survey of selected topics of current research interest.
Prerequisite: PHY 232 .
Instructor: Cunningham
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PHY 456 - Introduction to Quantum Theory 4 credits (Fall)
Introduction to the physical and mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics with application to simple physical systems.
Prerequisite: PHY 232 , MAT 220 , and PHY 335 .
Instructor: Staff
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PHY 457 - Advanced Quantum Theory 2 credits (Spring)
Application and implications of the quantum theory. Perturbation theory and other approximation techniques are used to examine various quantum systems. Fundamental questions of interpretation of the quantum theory will also be considered.
Prerequisite: PHY 456 .
Instructor: Staff
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PHY 462 - Advanced Laboratory 2 credits (Fall and Spring)
Experiments bear a closer resemblance to research than do the experiments in more elementary courses. There is a wide range of activities to meet individual needs and interests. Two afternoons of laboratory or reading each week.
Prerequisite: senior standing and at least three 200- or 300-level physics courses. Special permission for well-qualified third-year students.
Instructor: Tjossem, Willig-Onwuachi
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Policy Studies |
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PST 220 - Foundations of Policy Analysis 4 credits (Spring)
Cross-listed as: ECN 220 or POL 220 . This course explores principles of policymaking, with applications. It opens by examining theoretical rationales for policy, including those premised on ideology or market failure. It proceeds to investigate institutional context and processes relevant to policymaking, using case studies. With this foundation, the course explores specific policy problems and solutions related to important problem areas, such as economic growth, health care, monetary policy, education, and environment. Students will be encouraged to investigate policy areas of interest for case studies and papers.
Prerequisite: ECN 111 or POL 101 , and second-year standing.
Instructor: Ferguson, Hess
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PST 320 - Applied Policy Analysis 4 credits (Fall)
Topic changes each year. This course will apply fundamental policy ideas from Policy Studies 220 to specific policy problems. Students will analyze policy problems and propose solutions. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: PST 220 , POL 220 , or ECN 220 . Other prerequisites may apply depending on staff teaching.
Instructor: Staff
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PST 420 - Advanced Policy Research 2 credits (Spring)
In this course students will use the techniques of policy analysis they studied in PST 320 to conduct an independent research project. Normally these projects will be related to the student’s major or other curricular interest. During the first several course meetings students will identify and refine their policy area for in-depth study. This course will meet once per week during the spring semester, and will culminate with individual presentations of the policy research.
Prerequisite: PST 320 .
Instructor: Staff
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Political Science |
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POL 101 - Introduction to Political Science 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
Designed to provide a general introduction to the major concepts and themes of the discipline of political science, using examples from contemporary American, comparative, and international politics.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Staff
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POL 216 - Politics of Congress 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A study of the politics of Congress, including such topics as congressional elections, party leadership, floor voting, congressional committees, congressional policymaking, and reform proposals. Emphasis placed on understanding theories of legislative behavior.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Hanson
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POL 219 - Constitutional Law and Politics 4 credits (Fall)
This course examines the critical role that the U.S. Supreme Court has played in shaping the American political landscape over time. We will learn various methods of constitutional interpretation, and use them to read and analyze many of the Court’s landmark decisions. Specifically, we will explore how the court has policed controversial power struggles in American government, and developed into a powerful political institution.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Instructor: Dawkins
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POL 220 - Foundations of Policy Analysis 4 credits (Spring)
Cross-listed as: PST 220 . This course explores principles of policy making, with applications. It opens by examining theoretical rationales for policy, including those premised on ideology or market failure. It proceeds to investigate institutional context and processes relevant to policy making, using case studies. With this foundation, the course explores specific policy problems and solutions related to important problem areas such as economic growth, health care, monetary policy, education, and environment. Students will be encouraged to investigate policy areas of interest for case studies and papers.
Prerequisite: POL 101 and second-year standing.
Instructor: Hess
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POL 237 - Political Parties 4 credits (Fall)
An examination of the political party in U.S. politics. Considers the party at three levels: the individual, the organization, and the system. Topics include the development and evolution of parties, candidates and elections, third parties, and the role of parties in the U.S. political system.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Trish
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POL 239 - The Presidency 4 credits (Spring)
Consideration of the modern presidency as an institution and the president as a critical political actor in politics. Topics include leadership, institutional change, executive-legislative relations, decision-making, and presidential selection.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Instructor: Trish
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POL 250 - Politics of International Relations 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
A study of the evolving relations between nations in the period since 1939, focusing on U.S. foreign policy. The crucial decisions of the Cold War and post-Cold War evaluated against standard of the rational actor, taking into account distortions caused by bureaucratic, bargaining, personality, psychological, societal, momentum, and communications factors.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Moyer
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POL 251 - International Political Economy 4 credits (Fall)
Introduction to the study of political economy through the examination of the pursuit of wealth and power in the international system. Evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of different theoretical approaches as applied to the issues of trade, international finance, and foreign investment.
Prerequisite: POL 101 . ECN 111 is highly recommended.
Instructor: Driscoll
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POL 255 - The Politics of New Europe 4 credits (Spring)
This course provides a survey of contemporary European politics. It examines the European geopolitical dynamics in the 21st century, the variations among European polities in political institutions, parties, electoral politics, and public policy; and the institutionalization and policy processes in the European Union. Some thematic issues are the varieties of democracies and capitalist systems, transitions to democracy, the role of the state in the economy, and enlargement and deepening of the European Union.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Instructor: Sala
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POL 257 - Nationalism 4 credits (Fall)
This course explores the definition of states and nations and the relationship between them. It analyzes the forces that motivated the appearance and spread of nation-states, and that formed national identities. It also studies the relationship between capitalism, communism, decolonization, globalization, and nationalism. It explains the emergence of secessionist claims, ethnic violence, and the ability of institutions in channeling national conflict. Cases include France, United States, Spain, Germany, Ireland, Quebec, the former U.S.S.R., Yugoslavia, India, or Rwanda.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Instructor: Sala
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POL 258 - Democratization and the Politics of Regime Change 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
What is a democracy? Which factors contribute to democratic transitions and the survival of democracy over time? What happens when democratization fails? What is the role of international factors in democratic development? We will explore these questions through an analysis of democratization in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, with a particular emphasis on developments from the past twenty years.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Lussier
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POL 259 - Human Rights: Foundations, Challenges, and Choices 4 credits (Spring)
This course will familiarize students with the international human rights regime and will analyze a series of case studies to illustrate the challenges to the realization of human rights and the choices for human rights advocates and policymakers. Topics for discussion include universality or relativity of human rights, the interplay between civil and political rights and economic and social rights, the impact of sovereignty, monitoring, and compliance. Cases will include humanitarian intervention, the U.S. domestic response to 9/11, religious accommodation and equality of rights, human rights and development, and climate change and human rights.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Moyer
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POL 261 - State and Society in Latin America 4 credits (Fall)
Examination of the diverse and common dilemmas facing Latin America, using social scientific approaches. Topics include economic development and political uncertainty.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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POL 262 - African Politics 4 credits (Spring)
The major events and themes in the study of politics in sub-Saharan Africa. Part 1 is historical. We travel through pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial histories to understand Africa’s present political landscape. Part 2 is thematic. We use this historical knowledge to answer major questions in African politics concerning: political order, the strength of states, political economy of development, political culture, ethnicity, and gender.
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Instructor: Driscoll
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POL 263 - Political Theory I 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
See PHI 263 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
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POL 264 - Political Theory II 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
See PHI 264 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
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POL 273 - Politics of Russia 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
This course analyzes the politics of contemporary Russia, focusing on the country’s post-Soviet political and economic transformation, as well as its changing place on the global stage. Questions we will explore include: what was the Soviet Union and why did it collapse? What kind of political regime has since taken root in Russia? How do Russians view their political system? and What role does Russia play in a multi-polar world?
Prerequisite: POL 101 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Lussier
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POL 310 - Advanced Seminar in American Politics 4 credits (Fall)
A research-oriented course in American politics. Students examine research methods and their application to political questions/phenomena. Students then devise and conduct an intensive research project. Throughout the course, there is an emphasis on empirical political science.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209); and POL 216 , POL 237 , POL 239 , POL 220 , or PST 220 .
Instructor: Trish
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POL 319 - Advanced Seminar in Constitutional Law 4 credits (Spring)
This course is an in-depth exploration of the role of the U.S. Supreme Court in American democracy, focusing on the question of how courts strike a balance between protecting democratic values and protecting the rights of vulnerable minorities. Students will read contemporary legal theory and write a research paper linking a particular topic of interest to them to larger questions about rights in a constitutional democracy.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and POL 219 .
Instructor: Staff
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POL 320 - Applied Policy Analysis 4 credits (Fall)
Cross-listed as: PST 320 . Topics change. For current course content please see the variable topic course listing below or search the online live schedule of courses.
Prerequisite: Prerequisite for POL-320: POL 216 , POL 220 , PST 220 , POL 239 , or POL 250 and third or fourth-year standing. Prerequisite for PST-320: PST 220 .
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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POL 350 - International Politics of Land and Sea Resources 4 credits (Spring)
Analysis of the international politics of the conflict between the developed nations of the North and the developing nations of the South for control of the world’s resources and over trade and environmental issues. The impact of national decision-making processes, international organizations, cartels, and multinational corporations. Case studies.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and POL 250 , POL 251 , or POL 259 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Moyer
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POL 352 - Advanced Seminar on the U.S. Foreign Policymaking Process 4 credits (Fall)
An in-depth study of the U.S. foreign and defense policymaking process, emphasizing international relations theory; case studies of recent important decisions; discussion of the role, structure, function, and power of the National Security Council, State Department, Defense Department, and CIA; conflict between president and Congress; impact of press, public opinion, lobbies, and elections.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and POL 250 , POL 251 , or POL 259 .
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Moyer
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POL 354 - Political Economy of Development 4 credits (Fall)
Why are some countries poorer than others? Did Western countries get rich off the backs of poor countries? Are poor countries poor because they have backward cultures and ideas? Are poor countries just badly run by corrupt governments? We will study the politics of economic behavior in today’s poor countries. In Part 1 & 2, we will review the major concepts, theories and trends in development. In Part 3, we will read about the deep and proximate causes of poverty, such as colonialism, clientelism, weak property rights and natural resources. This equips us for Part 4: Solutions, in which we weight the evidence for various remedies for poverty, such as democracy, developmental states, good governance, and foreign aid.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and POL 250 , POL 251 , POL 257 , POL 258 , POL 261 , POL 262 (offered 2013 Spring), or POL 273 . ECN 111 is highly recommended.
Instructor: Driscoll
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POL 355 - Courts and Politics in Comparative Perspective 4 credits (Fall)
What do constitutions say and how do they become enforceable documents? This seminar focuses on the politics of constitutional choice and interpretation. It looks at the political aims of constitution and the role of courts in enforcing these documents. It analyzes the political factors involved in judicial decisions and the political strategies that derive from them, as well as how constitutional meaning evolves and changes. Cases include Germany, France, Spain, United States, Canada, Russia, Argentina, and Mexico.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and POL 216 , POL 219 , POL 239 , POL 255 , POL 258 , POL 261 , or POL 273 .
Instructor: Sala
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POL 356 - Islam and Politics 4 credits (Fall or Spring)
This course investigates the relationship between Islam and a variety of political outcomes, such as regime type, political violence, inequality, social tolerance, and political organization. Questions we explore include: what is “Islamism” and how did it arise as a political force? Why are so few Muslim-majority countries democratic? Are Islamic parties and organizations a threat or a resource for open politics? We take an empirical approach, examining scholarly analyses from a variety of methodological perspectives.
Prerequisite: Third or fourth-year standing and a 200-level course in comparative politics, and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT 209).
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Lussier
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Psychology |
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PSY 113 - Introduction to Psychology 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
An introduction to principles of psychological science and inquiry. Major topics of psychology are covered with consideration of different approaches psychologists take to describe, predict, and explain behavior. Emphasis is placed on theory, research, and application. Laboratory work is required.
Prerequisite: None.
Instructor: Staff
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PSY 214 - Social Psychology 4 credits (Fall)
Survey of contemporary experimental social psychology. Topics include: attribution theory, social cognition, stereotypes, attitudes, prosocial behavior, aggression, group processes, and applied social psychology. Attention given to interaction between theoretical development and empirical measurement. Laboratory work is required.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 . Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 115 , SST 115 or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Sinnett
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PSY 220 - Decision-Making 4 credits (Spring)
An examination of cognitive biases and heuristics that describe how people think about information when making decisions under uncertainty. We examine social, emotional, and behavioral influences across laboratory and real-world situations such as medical decisions and jury verdicts, and tools for helping people make better decisions (e.g., computers, formulas, and decision trees).
Prerequisite: PSY 113 and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Gibson
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PSY 222 - Industrial Psychology 4 credits (Fall)
An investigation of individual differences, learning, and motivation in the context of the work setting. Topics include testing theory, training techniques, and motivational theories.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Lopatto
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PSY 225 - Research Methods 4 credits (Fall and Spring)
This course describes experimental designs and attendant statistical techniques. Students learn to use quantitative methods to pose meaningful questions to data. Topics include between-group and within-group designs, analysis of variance for main effects and interactions, the adaptation of statistical inquiry to less than optimal situations, and critical thinking about research methods.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Instructor: Staff
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PSY 231 - Sensation and Perception 4 credits (Fall)
This course pursues the psychological questions of how the body detects sensory information and of how the mind integrates this information into a coherent interpretation of experience. This course will showcase psychological questions of perception that enlist approaches and perspectives possibly including, but not limited to, the physiology and behavior of natural systems (e.g., us), appreciation of art and music, the engineering of smart devices (e.g., robots), and remaining challenges. Laboratory work may be required.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 . Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 115 , SST 115 or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: D. Kelty-Stephen
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PSY 232 - Human-Computer Interaction 2 credits (Fall or Spring)
See CSC 232 .
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PSY 233 - Developmental Psychology 4 credits (Spring)
This course explores psychological development from the prenatal period through adolescence. Major theoretical perspectives on the nature of developmental change are considered with a focus on empirical research and application of each perspective. Topics include physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Laboratory work is required.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Ellis
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PSY 243 - Behavior Analysis 4 credits (Spring)
The course studies behavior as it occurs in its environmental context. Topics in learning and motivation are analyzed through the experimental approach of behavior analytic psychology. Topics include classical and operant learning, choice, self-control, and extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. Laboratory work is required.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Lopatto
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PSY 246 - Brain and Behavior 4 credits (Fall)
This course examines the interaction of brain and behavior. Topics include: (a) general introduction to neuroanatomy and neurophysiology; (b) neuroregulatory systems, stress, and emotion; (c) sensory and motor systems; and (d) processes of learning, memory, and cognition.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 . One semester of biology is recommended.
Instructor: Rempel-Clower, Tracy
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PSY 248 - Abnormal Psychology 4 credits (Spring)
The study of psychopathology. Emphasis is given to experimental models and the underlying psychological processes of abnormal behavior. Some attention is given to treatments. The course is structured around the categories of the DSM-5.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 . MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered ast MAT-209)is recommended.
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Ralston
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PSY 250 - Health Psychology 4 credits (Fall)
A survey of the psychological and social processes that contribute to health and illness. Topics include health-compromising and health-promoting behaviors, stress and coping, managing chronic illness, and patient-provider communication. Laboratory work is required.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 . Prerequisite or co-requisite: MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Not offered every year.
Instructor: Staff
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PSY 260 - Cognitive Psychology 4 credits (Spring)
This course explores the experimental research on human thinking, knowing, and remembering. Topics include attention, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, language, and individual and cultural differences in cognition. Laboratory work is required.
Prerequisite: PSY 113 and MAT 115 , SST 115 , or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Gibson
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PSY 311 - History of Psychological Theories 4 credits (Fall)
Historical and philosophical origins of contemporary schools of psychology are considered. The student analyzes the nature of psychological theory and the methods used to disconfirm theories, as well as the reasons for the emergence and decline of schools of psychological thought.
Prerequisite: Two psychology courses numbered 200 or above, and MAT 115 /SST 115 or STA 209 (previously offered as MAT-209).
Note: Plus-2 option available. Not offered every year.
Instructor: Lopatto
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