Academics

Admission

Directions

Course Descriptions

Student Development

Student Financial Services

Academic Catalog | Course Descriptions | M -P

Mathematics
MTH 099 Developmental Mathematics 3

Provides the basic mathematical skills including a review of the fundamental operations of arithmetic and a discussion of fractions, percents, and decimals as well as the application of basic concepts to the solution of problems. Placement by assessment only. This course does not count toward graduation.

MTH 121* Algebra Essentials 3

This course introduces the student to algebraic essentials necessary in College Algebra. Topics include variable expressions, linear equations and graphs, polynomials, factoring, polynomial equations, rational expressions, and systems of linear equations. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 099, permission of Department Chair or placement by math assessment.

MTH 125* Mathematics for Liberal Arts 3

A course which explores various topics chosen to develop a sense of the nature, beauty and utility of math. The process of mathematical thinking (inductive, deductive, and algorithmic) is emphasized. Ideas explored will be chosen from the following areas: set theory (with venn diagrams), logic and proof, systems and numbers, groups and fields, probability, statistics (including the normal curve), various base systems, and the history of numeration. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 121, permission of Department Chair, or placement by math assessment. Two years of high school math recommended.

MTH 130* Introductory Statistics 3

Topics include descriptive statistics, measures of central tendency and dispersion, probability rules and probability distributions, the central limit theorem and simple hypothesis testing. Application to real-world problems is stressed throughout the course. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 121, placement by math assessment, or permission of Department Chair.

MTH 151* College Algebra 3

A college-level algebra course which is a gateway to the study of higher mathematics. It is also useful preparation for courses with quantitative content. Topics include: polynomials, rational expressions, radicals and exponents, linear and polynomial functions, function theory and graphing, and systems of linear equations. Prerequisites: A grade of a C- or better in MTH 121, permission of Department Chair, or placement by math assessment exam.

MTH 152* Precalculus 3

Preparation for calculus and the physical sciences. Topics include: trigonometric functions and graphs; inverse function theory, inverse trigonometric functions, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 151, permission of Department Chair, or placement by math assessment exam.

MTH 238 Quantitative Analysis I 3

This course is designed to cover the mathematics concepts needed to understand and solve business problems. After a review of algebra, other topics include linear functions and graphs, systems of linear equations, matrices, inequalities, linear programming, and mathematics or finance. Applications to business and economics problems are stressed through the course. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 151, permission of Department Chair or placement by math assessment. Offered in the fall semester.

MTH 239 Quantitative Analysis II 3

Designed to introduce students to various quantitative techniques used in management, this course emphasizes the practical use of calculus in the solution of relevant business and economics problems. The material is technique-oriented rather than theory- oriented. Topics covered include nonlinear functions, differentiation, integration, optimization techniques and applications. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 238, permission of Department Chair, or placement by math assessment exam. Offered in the spring semester.

MTH 241* Calculus I 4

Introduces students to the concepts and contexts of calculus, with an emphasis on techniques and applications. Topics include: inverse functions theory; transcendental functions; including exponential, logarithmic, and inverse trigonometric functions; limits; continuity theory; derivative functions; techniques of differentiation; applications of the derivative to real world situations; L’Hopital’s Rule, and anti-derivatives. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 152, permission of Department Chair, or placement by math assessment exam.

MTH 242* Calculus II 4

A continuation of Calculus, including: the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, the definite integral with applications from geometry, physics, and biology; techniques of integration; introduction to differential equations; and infinite sequences and series; and Taylor Series. Prerequisite: C- or better in MTH 241, permission of Department Chair, or placement by math assessment exam.

Music
MUS 103* Introduction to Music 3

This course is intended to provide students with an overview of music in the West from its origins to current practice by giving an introduction to basic musical concepts and terminology and developing the student’s ability to listen to music through study and individual interpretation. Field trips: $60.

MUS 115/116 Musical Theatre Ensemble 1

Provides an opportunity for students to participate in public performances. Prerequisite: Audition. May be repeated for credit.

MUS 121 Applied Music 1

Twelve 25-minute instrumental or voice lessons. Open to all students. Instructors are selected by the Applied Music Coordinator. Fee: $225. Prerequisite: Consent of the Applied Music Coordinator. May be repeated for credit.

MUS 122 Applied Music 2

Twelve 50-minute lessons. Open to all students. Instructors are selected by the Applied Music Coordinator. Fee: $450. Prerequisite: Consent of the Applied Music Coordinator. May be repeated for credit.

MUS 143* American Musical Theatre 3

Introduces the student to the elements, form and history of the Broadway musical. Theatre Tickets: $125.

MUS 181 Fundamentals of Music 3

Skills of reading music, meter and rhythm, intervals, scales, and common chords, correlated sightsinging, and ear training. Students with previous music training may test out of the course, without receiving credit.

Peer Tutoring
PTU 102 Introduction to Peer Tutoring 1

Students train to become peer tutors in Dean’s Learning Center. At weekly seminar meetings students will deal with the role and responsibilities of a tutor, how to carry out and evaluate sessions, and the development of skills that make students more effective tutors. An excellent course for students interested in becoming teachers, counselors, or social workers. This course may be repeated for credit.

PTU 105 Peer Tutoring: Computer Center 1

Course instructors select students based on their academic achievement to work as tutors in the Computing Center. Students are trained and supervised by faculty and/or staff to review course material, help other students prepare for tests, provide practical study guidelines and organize material. One Credit: Two hours of tutoring required per week. This course may be repeated for credit.

PTU 106 Peer Tutoring: Dance 1

Course instructors select students based on their academic achievement to work as tutors in the area of dance. Students are trained and supervised by faculty to prepare for tests , provide practical study guidelines and organize material. One Credit: Two hours of tutoring required per week. This course may be repeated for credit.

PTU 122 Peer Tutoring II 2

A continuation of PTU 102. Students will further develop tutoring skills, and increase their knowledge of learning and teaching styles. Students who complete PTU 102 and 122 are eligible to apply for work study jobs as peer tutors in the Learning Center. This course may be repeated for credit.

PTU 125 Peer Tutoring: Computer Center 2

Course instructors select students based on their academic achievement to work as tutors in the Computing Center. Students are trained and supervised by faculty and/or staff to review course material, help other students prepare for tests, provide practical study guidelines and organize material. Two Credits: Four hours of tutoring required per week. This course may be repeated for credit.

PTU 126 Peer Tutoring: Dance 2

Course instructors select students based on their academic achievement to work as tutors in dance. Students are trained and supervised by faculty and/or staff to review course material, help other students prepare for tests, provide practical study guidelines and organize material. Two Credits: Four hours of tutoring required per week. This course may be repeated for credit.

Philosophy
PHL 100 Critical Thinking 3

This course is designed to help students develop their skills in critical thinking, problem solving, perception, believing and knowing, and the use of language as a system and a tool. This course is further designed to help students analyze, synthesize, evaluate arguments, and construct their own arguments in problem-solving. Corequisite: Honors Standing; restricted to 1st semester honors students.

PHL 101* Introduction to Philosophy 3

This course is an introduction to philosophical analysis through consideration of questions regarding: the relation of mind and body, the ways of knowing facts and ideas through scientific value theories, and through the study of social sciences, aesthetics, ethics and natural sciences, and questions regarding the meaning of life. A survey of philosophical thinking of these questions and their present relevance to the natural and social sciences and personal decision making is emphasized through the reading of philosophical essays and literature and group discussion.

PHL 111* Religion in Asia 3

A consideration of cultural and personal needs reflected in the evolution of Brahminism, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and later Hinduism in India. Special emphasis is given to understanding and appreciating the Eastern world view and ways of liberation offered by Vedanta, Yoga, Taoism, and Zen Buddhism.

PHL 115* Ethics 3

This course introduces students to the academic discipline of moral philosophy by examining its central questions, including: What is the nature of good and evil; of right and wrong; of freedom and responsibility? Can morality be objectively quantified? Can any given action be declared either a right or an obligatory act? What systems of moral decision-making bring enlightenment to the investigation of ethics? This course will approach these topics historically and philosophically with the use of classic and contemporary writings, student discussions, and case studies in current moral dilemmas including controversial choices in medical ethics; the impact of technology on freedom and responsibility; actions of civil disobedience or of war; and ethics in the work place.

PHL 215* Comparative Religions 3

This course is intended to introduce the student to the religions of the world with an emphasis on Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. Through a systematic and objective investigation of the key beliefs, practices, and cultural implications of each of these religions, the student will build a base of knowledge about the religions of the world, be able to compare their similarities and differences, and apply these insights to the personal journey of living in a diverse world.

PHL 299 Special Topics in Philosophy 3

This course addresses a special topic in philosophy, using current theories and classical paradigms in philosophy to analyze the topic. Through comprehensive readings, students’ ability to think critically about the topic and the discipline will be developed. A research paper will be required. Prerequisite: Sophomore Standing and completion of an introductory course in the discipline.

Physical Science
PSC 181* Environmental Science 4

This course provides essential background about the physical structures of Earth, including basic geology, ocean basin structure, plate tectonics, properties of water and soils. Current environmental issues affecting Earth’s atmosphere, water, land, and energy resources are examined. This course meets three hours weekly, plus a two-hour lab. Lab Fee: $50. Offered in the spring semester.

Physics
PHY 151* General Physics I 4

An introduction to the mathematical treatment of the foundations of mechanics, wave motion, electricity, and atomic structure. Laboratory work is an integral part of the course. Three lectures and a two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: MTH 151. Lab Fee: $50.

PHY 152* General Physics II 4

An advanced examination of topics introduced in PHY 151. Three lectures and a two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: PHY 151. Lab Fee: $50.

Political Science
POL 211* American Government 3

An analysis of American democratic institutions and the process of government including such topics as the Constitution; the principles and philosophies that underline the American form of government, civil liberties and civil rights; political parties; campaigns, elections, and voting behavior; and the functions and interrelationships of the branches of government.

POL 222* International Relations 3

An introduction to foreign policy and international relations through an analysis of the principles underlying the contemporary international nation-state system, including sovereignty, nationalism, national power and goals, international organizations, balance of power politics, war and diplomacy. Special emphasis will be placed on the roles of America, Russia, China, and the Third World in the modern international system.

Psychology
PSY 111* General Psychology 3

This course introduces students to the scientific discipline of psychology, providing a knowledge base for advanced coursework in the field. Topics include the history of psychology, research methods in psychology, contemporary paradigms in psychology, including the biological, behavioral, cognitive, psychodynamic and humanistic models; learning, brain and behavior; understanding psychological development over the lifespan; sensation and perception; and social psychology.

PSY 201* Abnormal Psychology 3

This course applies the discipline of psychology to the study of abnormal human behavior. Its nature, etiology and treatment options will be examined through the perspective of the biological, psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and systems paradigms. Topics include the history of psychopathology, the role of the DSM-IV-TR in diagnosing disorders; the DSM-IV-TR classifications of disorders found in Axes I and II; and comparing/contrasting the strengths and weaknesses of diagnosis and treatment strategies from the major paradigms in psychopathology. Prerequisite: PSY 111

PSY 211* Child Psychology 3

This course investigates the discipline’s insights into children as they develop biologically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally from the prenatal period through the early years of adolescence. Prerequisite: PSY 111.

PSY 230* Cross-Cultural Psychology 3

This course explores a recent focus in social psychology, the investigation of human cognition and behavior across cultures. Topics include: building a conceptual framework for cross-cultural psychology; understanding methods of cross-cultural research; examining cognition and behavior which is universal and cognition and behavior which is culture specific; understanding human development and education across cultures; and factors in cultural diversity including gender, individualism and collectivism, intelligence, and acculturation. Pre-requisite: PSY 111.

PSY 234* Educational Psychology 3

This is a foundation course in educational psychology which engages the participants in a systematic study of students, teachers and their interaction in classroom settings. Topics include: classic and contemporary theories of learning; the effect of physical, cognitive and socioemotional development upon learning; understanding the impact of diversity in intelligence, learning and teaching styles; and factors of motivation and management in the classroom. Pre-requisite: PSY 111.

PSY 241* Adolescent Psychology 3

This course investigates the discipline’s insights into children as they develop biologically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally during the adolescent years. Prerequisite: PSY 111.

PSY 299 Special Topics in Psychology 3

This course addresses special topics in psychology, using current theories in psychology to analyze the topic. Through comprehensive readings, students’ ability to think critically about the topic and the discipline will be developed. A research paper will be required. Prerequisite: Sophomore Standing and PSY 111.

PSY 301* Abnormal Psychology 3

This course applies the discipline of psychology to the study of abnormal human behavior. Its nature, etiology and treatment options will be examined through the perspective of the biological, psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and systems paradigms. Topics include the history of psychopathology, the role of the DSM-IV-TR in diagnosing disorders; the DSM-IV-TR classifications of disorders found in Axes I and II; and comparing/contrasting the strengths and weaknesses of diagnosis and treatment strategies from the major paradigms in psychopathology. In addition to the mastery of text-based information, students enrolled in PSY 301 will use the DSM-IV-TR to diagnose case studies and reference research on disorders. Students must also demonstrate the ability to review current journal research. Prerequisite: Junior standing, PSY 111 or permission of the department chair. Students may not complete both PSY 201 and PSY 301 for academic credit.

PSY 334* Brain and Behavior 3

This course examines basic neurological concepts including nerve cells and nerve impulses; communication at synapses; anatomy of the nervous system; plasticity of the brain; mechanisms of perception; wakefulness and sleep; emotional behaviors; and psychological disorders, including drug abuse. Pre-requisites: PSY 111; junior standing or permission of the instructor and the Department Chair.

PSY 337 Organizational Behavior 3

The purpose of this course is to examine human behavior in organizations at the individual and group levels including the effect of organization structure on behavior. Specific attention will be placed on the use of OB concepts for developing and improving interpersonal skills. Prerequisite: an introductory course in the discipline (SOC 113, BUS 123, PSY 111) and junior standing; or permission of the instructor and the Department Chair. This course is also cross-listed as BUS 337 and SOC 337.