Online Interdisciplinary Studies Program: Curriculum

This course cultivates the intensive reading and analytical writing skills necessary for college-level work. Texts are drawn from across the disciplines to cultivate wide-ranging vocabularies and varied analytical approaches. Placement in this course is normally restricted to students scoring at or above the 50th percentile on a standardized test. A C- or above is required to pass the course; otherwise, an NC (no credit) is assigned and students must retake the class and receive a letter grade (A-F).

This course expands on skills cultivated in ENG 121 by training students to place their ideas within a larger intellectual context by locating, evaluating, and integrating outside research into their writing with appropriate documentation. Course readings on a theme are drawn from literature in any literary period. A C- or above is required to pass the course; otherwise, an NC (no credit) is assigned and students must retake the class and receive a letter grade (A-F). Successful completion of the research component of the course is necessary to receive credit for the course.

A writing course, at an advanced level, that focuses on the research process in relation to readings from the Classical period through the 18th century. Works might include Homer, Virgil, Sophocles, Aeschylus, Dante, Beowulf, Chaucer, Shakespeare, Donne, Milton and Aphra Behn. Prerequisite: Honors Standing.

A study, at an advanced level, of major works of British, American, and world literature from the 19th century to the present. Representative works might include Jane Austen, the Romantic and Victorian poets, Dickens, Hardy, T. S. Eliot, Hawthorne, Melville, Twain, Achebe, Conrad, Fugard, Dostoevsky, Robert Frost, Jamaica Kincaid, Toni Morrison, August Wilson and others. Prerequisites: Honors Standing and ENG 190.

An introductory course on historical skills, including: critical reading, writing and thinking, thesis statements, geographical awareness, oral communication and distinguishing between primary and secondary sources. Each course will have a subtitle which would indicate the subject content of the course. This course fulfills one-half of a student’s oral communication overlay requirement.

An introductory course on historical skills, including critical reading, writing and thinking, thesis statements, geographical awareness, oral communication and distinguishing between primary and secondary sources. Each course will have a subtitle which would indicate the subject content of the course, which will focus on an American history topic. This course fulfills one-half of a student’s oral communication overlay requirement.

A survey of Western civilization from the Classical Period to the mid-1600s. Emphasis is given to Classical Greece, the Hellenistic Age, Roman History, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Reformation and the rise of the nation states. Political, social and economic relationships are integrated and analyzed.

A survey of Western civilization from the Scientific Revolution to the present. Emphasis is given to the Scientific Revolution; the Enlightenment; the French Revolution; industrialization; political, social, and intellectual changes in the nineteenth century; the Russian Revolution; the World Wars; the Cold War and the collapse of Communism. Political, social and economic relationships are integrated and analyzed.

An inquiry into the development of American society through the Civil War and Reconstruction.

An inquiry into America’s development since 1876 including the Gilded Age, Progressivism, the Great Depression, both world wars, Vietnam and the many diverse social and political developments from the 1950s into the 1990s.

This course provides sound methods for distinguishing good from bad reasoning through the study of the basic methods of formal or symbolic logic. Techniques covered include: symbolization, truth tables and method of deduction for sentential logic. Possible additional topics include: classical syllogistic logic, Venn diagrams for predicate logic, issues of logic embedded in language. A C- or above is required to pass this course; otherwise, an NC (no credit) is assigned and students must retake the class and receive a letter grade (A-F).

This is an accelerated course in investigating sound methods for distinguishing good from bad reasoning through the study of the basic methods of formal or symbolic logic. Techniques covered include: symbolization, truth tables, and natural deduction proof methods for sentential logic. Possible additional topics for this honors course may include: predicate logic, modal logic, issues in the philosophy of logic, mathematics and language, the application of the techniques of logic to the analysis of difficult philosophical problems. A C- or above is required to pass this course; otherwise, an NC (no credit) is assigned and students must retake the class and receive a letter grade (A-F). Prerequisite: Honors Standing.

A comprehensive survey of the basic elements of American political life, national government and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

An introductory-level survey that compares states, political regimes and patterns of violence across several diverse countries in the world. The empirical emphasis is on contemporary issues and problems.

Introduction to principles of international relationships and major contemporary global issues. Topics covered focus on issues that are important for understanding the common good of the global community, including the growth of the state system, human rights, globalization, conflict and war, trade and money, North-South relations and environmental problems.

An introduction to the theological study of the Christian tradition of faith. The course is divided into two components: biblical and doctrinal. Both components will investigate the historical development and contemporary understandings of Bible and Tradition, the two fundamental expressions of Christianity.

An introduction to the theological study of the Christian tradition designed especially for Honors students. The course has two components: the study of Scripture in the light of contemporary biblical scholarship and the study of leading figures and turning points in the history of doctrine.

A multi-genre introduction to creative writing covering poetry, drama, and fiction. Prerequisite: ENG 123.

An advanced study of global history in which students analyze historical writings and primary sources. This course is writing intensive and stresses participation. This course fulfills the college core requirement for HIS 110 Introduction to Global Historical Studies. Prerequisite: Honors Program.

Interdisciplinary special topics. The course will be taught either on a tutorial or seminar basis.

Special topics course.

Students are introduced to the role culture plays in forming the ways people think, identify themselves, interact and make decisions. Various culture groups are compared and contrasted in order to understand their different values, social behaviors, and traditions. The relationship between culture and language is also examined.

Professional experience through a semester of directed part-time employment. Enrollment is restricted to juniors and seniors.

An integrating course intended primarily for interdisciplinary studies majors at the end of their program. The course will be taught either on a tutorial or seminar basis.

An integrating course intended primarily for interdisciplinary studies majors at the end of their program. The course will be taught either on a tutorial or seminar basis.

An introductory-level survey that compares states, political regimes and patterns of violence across several diverse countries in the world. The empirical emphasis is on contemporary issues and problems.

A comprehensive survey of the basic elements of American political life, national government and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

An introduction to economics with primary emphasis on microeconomic aspects of the United States economy, such as: supply and demand, profit maximization, market structure, factor markets, public policies toward business and some current economic problems.

Theory of demand and value, pricing, production, resource allocation and general equilibrium.

A study of theories and issues underlying international trade and finance. Topics include sources of comparative advantage, tariff and nontariff barriers and multilateral institutions. Students will also study the balance of payments, exchange rates and the impact of government policy.

An introduction to the nature and scope of economics. Emphasis is placed upon macroeconomic aspects of the study of economics. Topics include: supply and demand analysis, inflation, unemployment, aggregate output, economic growth and money and banking. Monetary and fiscal policy options are emphasized.

The development of American political ideas, examined in the context of the Western tradition of political theory.

Introduction to principles of international relationships and major contemporary global issues. Topics covered focus on issues that are important for understanding the common good of the global community, including the growth of the state system, human rights, globalization, conflict and war, trade and money, North-South relations and environmental problems.

An analysis of international relations in combination with political economy. The course explores the development of a world economic system and the complex synergy among political and economic forces in the world.

A writing-intensive seminar that probes major themes and issues in the study of public health with attention to international cooperation and human rights. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.

An examination of the nature and consequences of social differentiation and stratification on the basis of sex and gender. An inquiry into the institutional bases of gender roles and gender inequality, cultural perspectives on gender, gender socialization, feminism and gender-role change. Analysis of social position of women and men in society, focusing on their positions in institutional areas such as the family, politics, work and education. Evaluation of theories of biological, psychological and sociological bases for the behavior and characteristics of women and men. Emphasis on contemporary American society.

A scientific study of the relationships and problems of the major cultural, ethnic, racial and religious minorities in American society. This course examines ethnic, racial and other minority groups from both a historical and a contemporary perspective. Includes a review of theories concerning prejudice and discrimination, patterns of minority relations and future race relationship patterns in the United States. Requires 20 hours of service to the community.

An introduction to the use of statistics as a decision-making process. Probability theory, descriptive and inferential statistics will be covered. Prerequisite: MTH 111 or MTH163 (must pass with a C- or higher).

Psychological and group influences on perception; attitude formation and change; the development of social relations, i.e., affiliation, attraction and affective bonds; group processes, especially leadership, group problem-solving, status and role differentiation; group influences on aggression, mob and panic behavior; escalation and resolution of interpersonal, intergroup and international conflict. Prerequisite: PSY 101.

This course will provide students with a broad introduction to the field of psychology and help them develop a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of human behavior. Among the topics covered are the history of psychology, biological causes of behavior, learning, memory, development, personality and psychological disorders. Required of Psychology, Health Sciences and Nursing majors

This course will explore the psychological factors of sport. Topics covered include developing and maintaining confidence and motivation, team interactions and cohesion, and honing mental skills to improve performance. Psychological theories and existing research in sport psychology will be emphasized in this course.

This course offers an introduction to the application of psychological principles and theories to the workplace. Topics include worker attitudes, stress in the workplace, job analysis, training, selection and performance, as well as organizational development, structure and culture. There will be a strong application/experiential learning component to this class.

This course examines the roots, nature and social construction of gender. It will focus on psychological issues related to the roles assumed by males and females in contemporary society.

A study, at an advanced level, of major works of British, American, and world literature from the 19th century to the present. Representative works might include Jane Austen, the Romantic and Victorian poets, Dickens, Hardy, T. S. Eliot, Hawthorne, Melville, Twain, Achebe, Conrad, Fugard, Dostoevsky, Robert Frost, Jamaica Kincaid, Toni Morrison, August Wilson and others. Prerequisites: Honors Standing and ENG 190.

An introduction to the literature in translation of Asian writers. Readings are usually in 20th-century fiction and might include the work of Yukio Mishima (Japan), Pramoedya Ananta Toer (Indonesia), Duong Thu Huong (Vietnam), and Mo Yan (China).

A multi-genre exploration of the rich literary contributions of African American writers, primarily focusing on the 20th century from the Harlem Renaissance through the Black Arts Movement and contemporary fiction. May include some 19th-century texts, such as slave narratives and early poetic works. Readings might include works from such writers as Frederick Douglass, W. E. B. Du Bois, Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, James Baldwin, Malcolm X, Toni Morrison, August Wilson and Gwendolyn Brooks.

An introduction to literature written by Hispanic Americans living in the US and writing in English. Texts can be essays by Gloria Anzaldúa, novels and short stories by authors such as Junot Díaz, Rudolfo Anaya, Piri Thomas, Cristina García, Julia Alvarez and poetry by assorted authors. The course may offer an opportunity to meet Hispanic American immigrants and hear their stories.

An exploration of myths and legends, fiction, poetry, autobiography and other nonfiction by American Indians spanning from pre-colonial times through the late 20th-century Renaissance in native writing. Readings may include such writers as Zitkala-Sa, Leslie Marmon Silko, Sherman Alexie, Peter Blue Cloud and John (Fire) Lame Deer.

A multi-genre introduction to creative writing covering poetry, drama, and fiction. Prerequisite: ENG 123.

A multidisciplinary approach to the following questions: The competing paradigms of environmental science; historical roots of the environmental predicament, animal rights, preservation of species, obligations to future generations, population issues, pollution issues, regulatory issues and the ideal of a sustainable society. Students who have taken PHL 314 may not enroll in PHL 214 and vice-versa. Prerequisite: PHL 101; corequisite: BIO 110 (or designated semester).

A study of values and the nature of morality, natural and positive law, and conscience. The ethical frameworks studied are applied to contemporary moral problems. Prerequisite: PHL 101.

Abasic exploration of bioethical issues: their philosophical and theological concepts and their ethical work-up from a distinctively nursing perspective. Enrollment is restricted to nursing majors. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190 and admission to the professional component of the nursing program.

An examination of the nature of law and morality, liberty, justice, equality and punishment. Contemporary social issues such as the right to privacy, obscenity and pornography, capital punishment, equality between the sexes are also discussed. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190 and a lower-division course.

The consideration and application of moral principles to the problems and conduct of medical professionals. Topics include professional relationships, management of medical information, reproductive technologies, abortion, end-of-life decisions, AIDS, human genetics and justice in the distribution of heath care. Preference is given to pre-medical students. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190 and a lower-division course.

An examination of major ethical theories and their application to the professional problems and conduct of persons engaged in business and management.

A study of classical and contemporary ethical theories. Topics may include ethical relativism, ethical egoism, utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics, feminism, moral realism, natural rights and justice. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190 and a lower-division course.

An examination of the nature of justice from a number of classic and contemporary philosophical perspectives. Readings drawn from Aristotle, Marx, Darwin, Rawls, Nozick and contemporary philosophers. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190 and a lower-division course.

An intensive consideration of some major problems in ethics or an in-depth study of some figure(s) in the history of ethics. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190 and a lower-division course.

An examination of major ethical theories and their application to the professional problems and conduct of persons engaged in business and management. Prerequisites: PHL 101/190.

This course involves an extensive discussion of capitalism and socialism, including the various permutations and sub-types of each theory. Students will explore which economic system best promotes social justice, possible moral limitations of free markets, and potential for synthesizing the productivity and efficiency of capitalism with the Jesuit and Catholic commitment to serve others.