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2020-2021 Catalogue 
    
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2020-2021 Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOGUE]

Courses of Instruction

 

Topics Courses   
 

Politics
  

  • POL 368 - Environmental Politics and Policy (American Politics & Public Policy) (1)

    Analysis of the policy process concerning energy and environmental issues, emphasizing the interrelated roles of Congress, federal and state agencies, the President, interest groups, etc., and including an evaluation of alternative policies. Prerequisite: POL 172  or POL 182 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • POL 371 - Wilderness Politics and Policy (American Politics & Public Policy) (1)

    An exploration of governmental policies designed to preserve and manage wilderness areas in the United States. Taught at the Wilderness Field Station and in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Registration entails additional costs. Prerequisites: POL 172  or POL 182  and permission of the instructor. Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • POL 372 - Current Cases before the Supreme Court (American Politics & Public Policy) (1)

    Examination of selected cases to be heard by the Supreme Court through lecture, discussion, and oral argument. Case analysis by Judge Hansen and Professor Sutherland in the first half of the course; oral argument by students in the last half. Prerequisite: POL 172 .
    (Social Science)
  

  • POL 380 - Political Affairs Internship (1)

    Field experience in applied politics. See Additional Academic Opportunities , All-College Independent Study Courses 280/380. Prerequisites: acceptance by a sponsoring agency or individual and approval of a formal prospectus by the faculty sponsor.
    (CR)
  

  • POL 381 - Education Policy in America: Dollars, Sticks, or Carrots? (American Politics & Public Policy) (1)

    This course will focus on analyzing contemporary education policy in the United States. We will explore the motivations, goals, and outcomes of major educational policies. Have they achieved what they intended to accomplish? Why or why not? We will also consider issues concerning the role of education in society, the presence and impact of inequality in education, and the role of the federal government in guiding education policy. Throughout the course we will return to an underlying question that permeates many of today’s education policy debates: What is the proper use of incentives, resources, and/or sanctions in maximizing student achievement, teacher quality, and social benefits from education? Prerequisite: POL 172  or POL 182 .
    (Social Science)
  
  
  

  • POL 483 - Research Seminar (1)

    Each student will choose a topic within politics to explore through group discussion and peer review, presentations, and a paper that critically reviews existing research to advance an argument. Prerequisites: Politics major with junior standing and three 300-level Politics classes other than internships. No alternate grade option.
    (Social Science)
  
  
  

  • POL 511 - Readings in Politics and Public Policy (1/4)

    Weekly reading and discussion on a topic of interest in Politics and Public Policy around a general theme. Three meetings per term for four terms, with one or two hours of outside reading in preparation for each discussion. May be repeated for credit to a maximum in both Pol 511 and POL 512  of two course credits.
    (CR)
  

  • POL 512 - Extended Research in Politics and Public Policy (1/4)

    The pursuit of an empirical problem through experimental or other research, including research design, implementation, and write-up and dissemination of results. May be repeated for credit to a maximum in both POL 511 , and POL 512 of two course credits.
    (CR)
  

  • POL 561 - Mock Trial (1/4)

    Participating in simulated trials in competition with teams from other institutions, learning legal practices, procedures and ethics and developing critical thinking and public speaking skills. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
    (CR)
  
  

Psychology
  

  • PSY 161 - Fundamentals of Psychological Science (1)

    Scientific study of behavior. Topics may include learning, development, personality, perception, physiological bases of behavior, the behavior of individuals in groups, and abnormal behavior.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 244 - Human Aggression and Violence (W) (1)

    This course will examine recent efforts to integrate explanations of human aggression and violence across several disciplines. Students will consider the interplay between social learning, neural, endocrine, and evolutionary explanations of aggression by individuals in their social environment. Topics are likely to include interpersonal and online aggression, workplace violence, aggression within competitive situations, video/computer game violence, and war. In addition to analyzing both primary and secondary sources, special attention will be given the depiction of violence across several different forms of mass media. Because this is a writing course, a significant amount of time will be spent on the writing process, with a focus on revision. Not open to students who have previously completed a writing course.
    (Writing Requirement)
  

  • PSY 245 - Lifespan Development (1)

    Investigation of the major subfields of psychology from a developmental perspective: cognition, emotion, motivation, personality/self, biological systems (brain/nervous system, endocrine), social relationships (peers and family). Includes discussions of research methods particular to lifespan research, genetic-environment interactions, prenatal development, and dying/bereavement.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 274 - Social Psychology (1)

    An examination of the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of individuals within their social environment. Topics will include: conformity, propaganda, persuasion, social cognition, self-justification, human aggression, prejudice, attraction, and loving relationships. Emphasis will be placed on critically examining experimentally-derived theories and testing them within naturalistic settings. This will involve data collection off-campus on a weekend.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 276 - Multicultural Psychology (1)

    An examination and critique of psychological knowledge from a multicultural perspective. This course focuses on understanding individual and cultural identity and worldviews, the intersectionality of these aspects of identity, and how understanding culture helps us understand each other and ourselves. Other topics include: cultural variations in concepts of personality, intelligence, human development, social behavior, gender, and abnormal behavior; research methodology issues; culture and communication; and the cultural foundations of Western psychology. This course emphasizes cultural and psychological perspectives on oppression, prejudice, violence, and racism using current examples of American and international incidents. This course is designed to help students better understand themselves and members of diverse communities with whom our students will likely encounter during their education, careers, and life overall. 
    (Social Science) (Writing Encounter) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • PSY 277 - Child Development (1)

    Physiological, cognitive, social, and cultural influences on development from conception through middle childhood. Emphasis on building an integrated picture of child development and an appreciation of how theory and data can be applied to the analysis of practical issues. Fifteen to twenty hours of observation in daycares/preschools. Students must provide their own transportation. Prerequisite: PSY 161 .
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 278 - Adolescence (1)

    Investigation of research on biological, cognitive, and cultural influences on adolescent development. Includes the impact of family, peers, school, media, and work, as well as identity, gender, and sexuality development. Also includes a discussion of problem behaviors (e.g., eating disorders, juvenile delinquency, alcohol use/abuse) often associated with adolescence. Course involves application of research findings to individual cases. Suggested Prerequisite: PSY 161 .
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 279 - Personality Psychology (1)

    Survey of major research, issues, debates, and theoretical approaches to understanding personality, including humanistic, learning, cognitive, dispositional, and psychodynamic theories as well as a thorough consideration of the person/situation debate, psychological traits, and the Big 5 Model of personality. This course emphasizes a critical understanding of the utility of these theories and models based on empirical research findings. The course includes discussion (and completion) of many ways to assess personality to help students better understand how personality is measured and whether these assessments are capable of providing the answers psychologists, individuals, and businesses seek out by employing these tools.
    (Social Science) (Writing Encounter) (Intercultural Literacy Encounter)
  
  

  • PSY 282 - Abnormal Psychology (1)

    How do we view mental illness in our culture?  Has this changed across time?  How do we diagnose mental illness?  What criteria do we use?  What are the major symptoms of each mental disorder?  What are the most effective treatment approaches?   This course will examine the symptoms, causes, and treatments of various forms of mental illness.  We will also explore cultural perceptions of mental health, mental illness, and public policies related to the treatment of the mentally ill. 
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 283 - Abnormal Child/Adolescent Psychology (1)

    A survey of emotional and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents, including the description of various behaviors, symptoms, syndromes, and disorders as well as research on child and adolescent disorders. The course explores multiple developmental pathways of children and adolescents as well as risks and protective factors that may influence the likelihood of developing a disorder. The course also addresses why and under what conditions disorders persist into adulthood. Prerequisites: PSY 161 .
    (Social Science)
  
  

  • PSY 292 - Research Methods I (1)

    Introduction to research design with a focus on research ethics, sampling, measurement, reliability, internal and external validity, experimental design, introduction to quasi-experimental design, correlational design, observational research, and survey research. Introduction to descriptive statistics (measures of central tendency, variability, confidence intervals of a single population mean), and univariate inferential statistics (independent samples t-test, dependent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, one-way repeated measures ANOVA, confidence intervals of a difference score, estimates of effect size, Pearson’s coefficient of correlation, simple linear regression, chi squared). Execution of all aspects of the research process including a literature search, hypothesis development, data collection, data analysis, and manuscript writing in APA style. Prerequisite: PSY 161 . Required for all sophomore Psychology majors. No alternate grade option.
    (Social Science) (Writing Intensive) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  
  

  • PSY 344 - Social Neuroscience (1)

    This course is an examination of recent efforts to integrate psychological and biological explanations of social behavior. Topics are likely to include aggression, loving, prejudice, helping behavior, conformity, emotions, and attraction. The interplay between social learning, neural, and endocrine systems in explanations of the behavior of individuals within their social environment will be given special attentions. Prerequisite: PSY 274  or permission of the instructor.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 361 - Cognitive Neuroscience (1)

    A critical examination of the neuroscience of memory and thought processes. Topics are likely to include: object recognition, attention, concept formation, memory systems, visual imagery, problem solving, judgment and language. Laboratory sessions will include discussions and presentations on the phenomena covered in class.  Prerequisite: PSY 161  and any 200-level Psychology course.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 362 - Learning (1)

    Experimental and theoretical approaches to the understanding of classical and instrumental conditioning. Among the topics to be covered are reflexive and unlearned behaviors, situational factors in classical and operant conditioning, optimum circumstances for use of reinforcement and punishment, effects of aversive stimuli, choice behavior, learned food preferences, behavior modification, and observational learning. Links to neural processes of both learning and memory will also be covered. Prerequisite: PSY 161  
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 363 - Introduction to Behavioral Neuroscience (1)

    Neural and endocrine systems and their relationships with sensation and perception, learning and memory, eating and drinking, sleep, sex, emotion, consciousness, communication, and psychological disorders. Laboratory sessions will include hands on demonstrations, including sheep brain dissection.  Prerequisite: PSY 161  and any 200-level Psychology course. Research Methods is recommended.
  

  • PSY 370 - Memory and Cognition (1)

    Research and theory about remembering and forgetting. Topics will include: models of memory (including neural network approaches), brain processes in memory, the role of images in memory, reconstructive processes in memory, memory and development, and how to improve memory. Prerequisites: PSY 161  
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 374 - Psychology of Women and Gender (1)

    How does society treatment men and women differently based on gender?  Why are men less likely to express sadness than women?  How do men and women differ in our friendships and romantic relationships?  Why are men more likely to abuse substances than women?  Why are women more likely to be victims of violent crimes?  Why are men more likely to be perpetrators of violent crimes?  This course will examine how gender affects our everyday lives and how our gender-related behaviors are shaped by the cultural forces around us.  This course also counts towards the GSS major. . Prerequisites: PSY 161  and any 200-level Psychology course.
    (Social Science) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • PSY 378 - Abnormal Behavioral Neuroscience (1)

    How does brain function change when a person struggles with a mental illness?  How does the bacterial composition of the gut predict mental health?  Why do antidepressant medications work for some patients but not others?  This course will explain the biological processes associated with mental illness.  We will evaluate the latest science on the biological changes demonstrated by patients with mental illnesses and how their brain function changes with effective treatment. Prerequisites: PSY 161 , PSY 292 , & PSY 363  
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 379 - Intimate Relationships (1)

    An examination of the theoretical and experimental psychological literature on loving and romantic relationships. Topics discussed include: interpersonal attraction, relationship development, sexuality, social power, communication, jealousy and envy, conflict and dissolution, loneliness, social networks, and relationship counseling.  Prerequisite: any 200-level Psychology course.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 380 - Internship (Human Services Practicum) (1/4, 1/2, or 1)

    Application of psychological principles in an applied off-campus setting. In addition to the All College requirements for Internships (see Additional Academic Opportunities  ) PSY 380 students must have a declared major in Psychology.  The maximum credit that may be earned in a Psychology practicum is three course credits accrued over PSY 380 and PSY 395.  Students must provide their own transportation and purchase professional liability insurance through the American Psychological Association.  Prerequisites: a declared major in Psychology, two course credits in Psychology relevant to the topic of the practicum, and permission of instructor.
    (CR)
  

  • PSY 382 - Counseling and Psychotherapy (1)

    What factors may lead some people to struggle with mental illness while others don’t? What behaviors can we show as a therapist to make our clients feel heard and understood? This course will explore theories of the causes of mental illness and will examine the most effective ways to treat these illnesses. Students will practice counseling skills via role plays and will develop diagnosis and treatment plans based on client case studies. Prerequisite: any 200-level Psychology course. Recommended Prerequisite: PSY 282   
    (Social Science) (Intercultural Literacy Encounter)
  

  • PSY 383 - Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine (1)

    Why are people more likely to get sick when they are stressed?  Why do people living in poverty have higher rates of diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease?  How does racial discrimination affect longevity and birth outcomes?  How does our nutrition affect our mental and physical health?  Why do people with strong social support systems live longer?  How does your relationship with your healthcare provider influence your health?  This course explores the economic, social, and psychological factors which contribute to health and well-being. Prerequisites: PSY 161  and any 200-level Psychology course. In addition, Research Methods (PSY 292 ) is recommended.
    (Social Science) (Writing Encounter) (Quantitative Reasoning Encounter)
  

  • PSY 384 - Industrial and Organizational Psychology (1)

    Psychology applied to work. Topics will include: personnel decisions, personnel training, performance appraisal, job satisfaction, work motivation, leadership, organizational communication, organizational development, union/management relations, and work conditions. Emphasis will be placed on critically examining the methods and practices of personnel decisions and performance appraisal through role-playing exercises and consideration of the theoretical and empirical literature on these topics. This course can be used for Personnel and Business Management majors. Prerequisite: PSY 274  or permission of instructor.
    (Social Science)
  

  • PSY 386 - Adult Development and Aging (1)

    Cognitive, social, and personality development from early through late adulthood. Themes of continuity and change in examining issues of family, work, gender, biological changes, and death and bereavement. Prerequisite: any 200-level Psychology course. Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  
  

  • PSY 392 - Research Methods II (1)

    This course will examine advanced research design with a focus on factorial designs and mixed factorial designs. We will conduct advanced univariate statistical analyses including two-way ANOVA, two-way repeated measures ANOVA, two-way mixed factorial ANOVA, linear regression, and multiple regression. Students will execute all aspects of the research process including a literature search, hypothesis development, data collection, data analysis, and manuscript writing in APA style. Professional and ethical issues will also be addressed. Prerequisites: PSY 161 , PSY 292 , and a declared major in Psychology. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application. No alternate grade option.
    (Social Science) (Quantitative Reasoning Intensive)
  

  • PSY 395 - Human Services Practicum and Seminar (1)

    Supervised full-time internship in a human service context and a weekly seminar. Group discussions of current issues in the field such as cultural and gender diversity, ethics, professional practice challenges, and the role of research in practice. Students must provide their own transportation and purchase professional liability insurance through the American Psychological Association. Students who wish to pursue an internship outside the Eastern Iowa area will need to discuss this with the instructor prior to the class beginning allowances will be made on a case by case basis.  Prerequisites: three Psychology courses, declared Psychology major, junior standing, and permission of instructor. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action categories Civic Engagement or Professional Exploration. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application. No alternate grade option.
    (CR)
  
  

  • PSY 483 - Senior Seminar (1)

    This is the capstone course for Psychology majors in the Behavioral Neuroscientist and Scientist concentrations.  Students will co-lead group discussions on current issues within the field of Psychology.  Students will complete a comprehensive scientific research review paper on a topic related to their professional interests.  Students will reflect upon their professional aspirations and will prepare career-related materials including resumes, vitaes, cover letters, and personal statements. Prerequisites: PSY 392 . No alternate grade option.
    (Writing Intensive)
  

  • PSY 485 - Research in Psychology (1)

    Reading in depth on a topic in a selected area and the pursuit of an empirical problem related to the topic. May be repeated for credit to a maximum in both PSY 485 and PSY 511  of three course credits.
  
  
  

  • PSY 511 - Extended Research in Psychology (1/4)

    Reading in depth on a topic of current interest and the pursuit of an empirical problem related to the topic. Must be taken over four consecutive terms. Maximum number of credits allowed: same as for PSY 485 . This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
    (CR)
  

  • PSY 512 - Reading and Conversation in Psychology (1/4)

    Weekly discussion of articles and topics of interest in psychology. Three meetings per term for four terms, with one or two hours of outside reading in preparation for each discussion. Prerequisite: one college-level course in Psychology. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
    (CR)
  

  • PSY 513 - Mindfulness, Meditation, & Psychological Health (1/4)

    This class involves the learning and practice of meditation as well as other forms of mindfulness.  There are seven required once a week class sessions. Class sessions are one hour and fifteen minutes in length and occur over two consecutive terms.  On non-class days throughout this seven week course, students maintain a personal mindfulness meditation practice lasting a minimum of 10 minutes a day; in the final weeks of the class, at least 4 of the individual meditation practice sessions will be expanded to 15 to 20 minutes. Students also keep a brief daily log. In the log they record their meditation practice experience, their experience of mindfully doing an everyday activity such as walking to class, and also a gratitude.  Students read one easily accessible book on the application of mindfulness meditation for everyday life. Students will also read one academic journal article on the psychological and/or psycho-physical benefits of meditation and mindfulness. During class reflection time students will share meaningful quotations, concepts, or data drawn from the reading explaining how they find them personally relevant. There are no quizzes, tests, or papers.  

Religion
  

  • REL 101 - Introduction to Religion (1)

    Our course will provide a comprehensive introduction to the study of religion in a college setting. We will examine a variety of topics that inform our understanding of the meaning and place of religion, including sacred place, space, action and time, the relationship of religion to reason, and comparison of practices and beliefs across religious traditions.
    (Humanities) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • REL 126 - Topics: Biblical Hebrew (1)

    Introduction to the language of the Hebrew Bible and associated cultures of the Ancient Near East. Students will learn the essentials of grammar, vocabulary, and culture through reading selections from the Hebrew Bible and associated post-Biblical literatures. No previous foreign language experience required. Offered every third year
    (Language)
  

  • REL 128 - Topics: The Secrets of Angels and Israel (1)


    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 129 - Race, Gender, and Sexuality in Christianity (W) (1)

    Nothing divides us more as a society than issues of gender, sexuality, and race. And in respect to such matters, the Christian tradition has been responsible for informing the views of many, whether directly or indirectly. Some have seen this tradition as providing a welcomed order and hope to a chaotic world; while others have regarded it as responsible for the denigration and disenfranchisement of women and LGBQTA people. This course aims to introduce the Christian tradition in a new light that respects both positions while giving students the tools to develop their own arguments within and outside of it.  This course will survey foundational passages from the Bible that concern gender and sexuality and consider the possibilities and limitations of methods of interpretation (esp. historical criticism). Students will be invited to examine how others’ experiences of their race, gender, and sexual orientation inform their interpretation of Scripture with respect to issues of authority, morality, and survival. As a writing course (W), students will become more proficient in writing arguments that exemplify civility, empathy, and constructive criticism.
    (First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Humanities)
  

  • REL 130 - Magic and the Occult (W) (1)

    An introduction to the place of magic in Western Civilization and beyond, with a focus on its understanding of the natural world, philosophy, theology and the role of human beings in the cosmos. Not open to students who have previously completed a First-Year Writing Course.
    (First Year Writing Seminar (FYW)) (Humanities)
  

  • REL 222 - Religions of the World (1)

    Comparative survey of the major world religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Sikhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Systematic attention to historical interrelations among traditions as well as differences in worldview and the significance of these differences for understanding human nature and culture.
    (Humanities) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • REL 243 - Origins of Israel (1)

    Introduction to the historical development and character of Israelite religion through its representation in Hebrew Scriptures and relationship to neighboring societies of the Ancient Near East. Consideration given to the problem of textual interpretation, as well as to the differences between the traditional and critical approaches to the Bible. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 244 - Issues in Hebrew Bible (1)

    Focus on a particular issue or skill in the study of the Hebrew Bible. In the framework of a critical engagement with the Biblical text, the course will focus on issues such as Biblical Hebrew language, religions of the Ancient Near East or archaeology and Biblical history. Particular issue will be specified in the current Course Schedule. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 251 - Jesus in the Gospels (1)

    Interpretation of Jesus in early Christian literature, focusing on the theological and historical problems in the Gospels. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 252 - The Epistles of Paul (1)

    This course situates the life and writings of the apostle Paul, one of the most formative intellects of Christianity, within his Greco-Roman and Jewish cultural contexts. The ethical vision, apocalyptic proclamations, Christian theology, and political rhetoric of Paul will be put in conversation with ancient Roman philosophy, mystery cults, the imperial cult, and Jewish apocalyptic literature from the Dead Sea Scrolls. Students will be also introduced to the field of archaeology and the interpretation of material remains in our discussion of such ancient Greek and Roman cities that Paul visited including Philippi, Ephesus, Thessaloniki, Corinth, and Rome (and those he didn’t including Pergamon and Aphrodisia). This course fulfills requirements for Classical studies and Religion majors. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 267 - Religion & Politics (1)

    How, why, and to what extent does religion influence American politics? And has politics shaped American expressions of religion? This course will examine the intersection of religion and politics in American society, from the founding of this nation to modern day. Although the number of people who regularly participate in religious communities decreased in past decades, religious beliefs and values have and continue to inform social activism,  political rhetoric, and policy-making in diverse, complex, and sometimes surprising ways. We will read engaging historical surveys, provocative primary sources, and cutting-edge analysis of modern poll data and statistics to gain a greater grasp on how and why religion and politics mutually influence one another. Same course as POL 252.
  

  • REL 268 - Topics: Gods, Emperors & Philosophy FEE1 (1)

    Gods, Emperors, and Philosophers invites students to trek across Greece and Western Turkey as explore and contemplate both the material and textual remains that inform our knowledge of the ancient Mediterranean world from the Trojan War and the to the Ottoman empire. This course will visit archaeological sites and modern cities which hold considerable significance for our understanding of ancient Mediterranean religions, imperial politics, ancient and medieval societies, and philosophy, including Thessaloniki, Istanbul, Pergamon, Hierapolis, Aphrodisias, Ephesus, Athens, Corinth, and Delphi. This course will give special attention to how both material remains, inscriptions, and ancient texts illuminate our understanding of how ancient and early modern Mediterranean peoples imagined, constructed, and communicated both divine and imperial power. Same course as CLA 274.

    Location: Greece and Turkey.

    A non-refundable deposit of $400 will be due on Monday, April 6th and must be paid using the online system. Students must be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the College both at the time of registration and one month prior to the beginning of the course. Details of this policy are available in the Catalogue. The total course fee is $4,000.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 280 - Internship in the Practice of Religion (1)

    Participation in the activities of a religious organization or institution. See Additional Academic Opportunities , All-College Independent Study Courses 280/380.
  
  
  

  • REL 323 - Native American Religions (1)

    Native American Religions will introduce students to the oral traditions, ritual ceremonies, connection to the land, and lifeways that animate the spirituality of Indigenous Peoples across North America. Students will learn about the tragic and complex history of Native American relationships with settlers and missionaries, their strategies for maintaining traditional practices despite pressures to “civilize” and “Christianize,” and what Indigenous Peoples can teach us about our interdependence with the environment. Students will consider how to be good neighbors and allies to Indigenous Peoples as they continue to struggle with the lasting effects of colonization, revitalize their language and lifeways, legal battles over sacred land, and the defense of their sovereignty. 
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 324 - The Hindu Vision (1)

    Hindu worldview as embodied and expressed in this tradition’s major teachings, rituals, and social practices. Primary focus on such classical texts as the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Bhagavad-Gita, and the Ramayana. Some attention to developments within modern Hinduism, with particular emphasis on the writings of Mohandas K. Gandhi. Alternate years.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 325 - The Buddhist Way (1)

    Primary teachings, formative figures, and major movements in the development of Buddhist thought in India, Tibet, China, and Japan. Special attention to the Buddhist understanding of reality, analysis of the human condition, and path to Nirvana or Enlightenment Alternate years.
    (Humanities) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • REL 327 - Religions of China and Japan (1)

    This course focuses on the character and development of Chinese and Japanese religions. Particular emphasis will be placed on the figures, movements and literature of China’s and Japan’s “major” religions (Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Shinto) within their regional, social and cultural contexts. Some attention will also be given to NRM’s (New Religious Movements) and the reception of “western” philosophy and religion. Offered every third year.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 342 - Judaism (1)

    Basic concepts, practices, and worldview of post-Biblical Judaism. Background readings in the history of Jewish people, religion, and thought. Offered every third year.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 343 - Issues in Contemporary Judaism (1)

    Focus on a particular issue or skill in the study of post-Biblical Judaism. In the framework of a critical engagement with the relationship between post-Biblical Judaism and the Hebrew Bible, the course will focus on issues which impact the conception of Jews and Judaism during the rabbinic, medieval and modern eras. Issues which will be addressed will include: Judaism and Islam, modern Jewish philosophy, Kabbalah, or the myth of the “original” Israel. Particular issue will be specified in the current Course Schedule. Offered every third year.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 362 - Holocaust and Response (1)

    Social and theological developments in the articulation of Judaism in Europe as shaped by the watershed events of the Nazi Holocaust. Attention to the problem of evil and the claim that basic changes in Jewish and Christian religious understandings are now inevitable. Offered every third year.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 363 - Suffering and the Sacred (1)

    This course examines diverse biblical response paradigms concerning human suffering as found throughout Jewish and Christian traditions. Paradigms we will explore include: Lament and protest as prayer form; redemptive suffering and self-sacrifice; liberation from social/political and psychological oppression; forgiveness; defiant joy as spiritual resistance; and relinquishment or shedding of Ego-mind including amid the pain of spiritual growth known as Dark Night of the Soul. These meaning making responses and coping strategies, as well as hope amid affliction, are undercurrents throughout the course. Includes Liberation Theology (black, womanist, and feminist), Holocaust Theology, and Contemplative/Mystical Theology. Offered every third year.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 367 - Advanced Topics: Buddhist Philosophies (1)

    The Buddhist tradition of mindfulness is both technique and philosophy, and includes differing understandings of the practice, efficacy and meaning of meditative contemplation. This course will explore the experience of Buddhist meditation alongside its philosophical understandings, including such topics as selfhood, emptiness, Buddha nature and enlightenment.
    (Humanities)
  

  • REL 380 - Internship in the Practice of Religion (1)

    Participation in the activities of a religious organization or institution. See Additional Academic Opportunities , All-College Independent Study Courses 280/380.
  

  • REL 389 - Seminar in Religion II: Practical Applications (1)

    This seminar is the second of two courses that make up the capstone experience for junior and senior majors in the study of religion. Students will both consider and implement the practical applications of their research projects completed in the prior seminar. Students will be encouraged to consult with on-campus faculty, whose specializations align with their topics, and to take full advantage of the college’s resources, including the Writing Center, the Berry Center, and the Civic Engagement Office, toward the ends of a creating a product (i.e., academic paper, presentation, informational resource, promotional video, etc.) beneficial to the academy and/or society.   Prerequisite: REL 388. Alternate years. Offered same year as REL 388. This course is pre-approved for transcript notation in the Ingenuity in Action category, Civic Engagement. To participate and earn notation of completion on your transcript, please complete the Ingenuity in Action application.
  
  
  
  
  

  • REL 511 - Hebrew Reading Group (1/4)

    Maintenance and development of Hebrew language skills through reading of the Hebrew Bible. Texts selected in consultation with the students participating. Course meets once a week for a semester. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
    (CR)

Sociology
  

  • SOC 101 - Sociological Thinking (1)

    Do you wonder why people do the things they do? Why society works as it does? Ever think the world is “unfair”? Sociologists study people in the world, looking at patterns, at differences, at inequalities. Thinking sociologically is like “entering a new and unfamiliar society–one in which things are no longer what they seem.” It creates “culture shock without geographical displacement.” This course requires us to look at society with a new perspective, to question our taken-for-granted assumptions, to investigate people’s actions, and to explore the organization of society. It provides a basis for being engaged citizens, thinking about social alternatives, and imagining possibilities for social justice. Credit may be given for either 101 or SOC 102 , but not for both. Not open to seniors without permission of the instructor.
    (Social Science) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • SOC 246 - Gender Diversity (1)

    This course will focus on diverse gender identities, bodies, and social presentations. Social practices and pressures of gender will be examined in order to gain insight into the larger contemporary social meanings of gender. We will explore how individuals interpret and present their gender identities, the constraints on such interpretations and presentations, and the larger social implications of gender diversity and gender regulation on cultural ideals. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN, or GSS majors. Prerequisite: One of the following: ANT 101 , ANT 102   SOC 101 , SOC 102 , GSS 171 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 248 - American Indians: Culture, Activism, and Social Justice (1)

    American Indians: Culture, Activism, and Social Justice Distinctive aspects of Native American tribes and analysis of the ways in which contemporary tribal cultures are influenced by their unique relationship with the federal government. An analysis of treaty rights, the nature of tribal self-determination, and the goals of current tribal activism. Topics covered include tribal efforts to control reservation development, to protect sacred environments, and to preserve tribal cultures. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN or EST majors. Prerequisite: One of the following: Writing Requirement (W), ANT 101 , ANT 102 , SOC 101 , ANT 102 , SOC 102 , EST 123 , permission of instructor. Alternate years.
    (Social Science) (Intercultural Literacy Intensive)
  

  • SOC 249 - Traditional Culture and Contemporary Issues in Japan (1)

    This off-campus course, taught in Japan, examines the interconnections between Japanese cultural traditions and contemporary issues. Cultural ideologies, social practices, and public policies related to gender, race/ethnicity, and human rights will be emphasized. Specific topics may include: gender roles; work and family life; intimate relationships; interpersonal violence; birthrate and aging concerns; youth culture and the current challenges faced by young adults; national identity; race/ethnicity, immigration and human rights; historical preservation and urban development; and the juxtaposition of traditional and popular culture. Initial sessions will provide an orientation to enduring historical and cultural foundations and values as well as contemporary issues that inform everyday life in Japan. While in Japan, class members will participate in a variety of activities and discussions; will complete field excursions to historical, cultural, educational, and religious settings; and will read materials relevant to these themes. Students will also explore contemporary culture by observing and interacting with Japanese citizens and hearing from guest lecturers. The course typically includes travel to and within the Kyoto-Osaka (Kansai), Kanazawa, Hiroshima, and Tokyo (Kanto) regions of Japan. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN or EST majors. Prerequisites: SOC 101 , SOC 102 , ANT 101 , PSY 161 , EST 123 , GSS 171 , or JPN 102 . Same course as PSY 256 .
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 255 - Media and the Public Mind (1)

    An examination of the underlying organization of the broadcast, print, and electronic media and their role in shaping perceptions, ideologies, and behavior. May emphasize the news, advertising, media representations, and the political economy of the media. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN, or GSS majors. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or SOC 102 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 273 - Families in a Social Context (1)

    This course examines current public debates and social policies related to “The Family” from a sociological perspective, with an emphasis on the complex and diverse family experiences and patterns in the contemporary United States. The course we will explore family meanings, functions, and structures, the ways that the larger social and cultural contexts impact family life, and family-related policy initiatives.  This course may count toward the SOC, SAN, or GSS majors. Prerequisite: One of the following: ANT 101 , ANT 102  , SOC 101 , SOC 102 , ANT 208 , GSS 171 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  
  
  
  

  • SOC 314 - Community Organizing, Public Policy, and Social Change (1)

    Communities play various roles in perpetuating and challenging contemporary social problems such as racial segregation, poverty, health disparities, educational inequity, gender/sexuality discrimination, and environmental injustices. Using Chicago as a case study, this course examines contemporary debates and social policies affecting cities; investigates the interplay between policy implementation and local efforts to make change; and explores the role of governments, non-profits, and individuals in addressing inequality. Typically travels to Chicago to meet with local organizations working on social change and policy reform related to urban inequality. Registration, when the course is taught off campus, entails additional costs. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or SOC 102 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 315 - Wealth, Power, and Inequality (1)

    Emphasizes the importance of socio-economic class by exploring the meaning and measurement of social class, how social classes are formed, and how they change. Explores issues of social mobility, investigates the relationship between various forms of inequality (i.e., social class, race-ethnicity, gender, sexuality) and contemplates the role of culture and social institutions, (e.g., work, the health care system, schools, families, the political systems, etc.) in perpetuating, legitimizing, and sometimes challenging social inequality. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or SOC 102 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 316 - Culture, Meaning-Making, and Distinction in American Society (1)

    Theoretical and sociological investigation of the concept of “culture.” Explores the connections between culture, structure, and society as a whole; specifically addresses the ways that symbols, language, and other forms of knowledge work to create meanings, constitute power, and form the basis for understanding social life including relationships, politics, sexuality, and work. Considers the creation and reception of culture; the relationship between culture and inequality; issues of domination and resistance, and the connections between culture and social/historical change. This course may count towards SOC, SAN, or ENV majors. Prerequisite: SOC 101  or SOC 102  and one additional sociology course. Offered every third year. 
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 317 - Reproductive Practices, Reproductive Policies (1)

    This course emphasizes the social construction of female reproductive processes and how culture and institutions shape our understandings and expectations of such processes. Addresses a variety of reproductive practices, experiences and ideologies. Discusses ideas about womanhood, motherhood, fatherhood, sexuality, eugenics, and reproductive freedom; investigates historical role and effect of the state, medical institutions, and women themselves as they struggle over, and shape such issues. The focus will be on the U.S., but we may also look at cases from other countries in order to examine our assumptions about reproductive practices and strategies. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN, or GSS majors. Prerequisite: One of the following: GSS 171 , SOC 101 , SOC 102 , ANT 312 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 320 - Sociology of the Environment (1)

    The course will explore the interactions of human social systems with ecosystems, considering the ways in which people, other animals, plants, land, water, and air are closely interconnected.  It will investigate how human consumption and production, along with technology, population, health, and inequalities are interwoven with environmental conditions.  It will also study how the cultures, ideas, moral values and social experiences of different human groups, from modern Americans to indigenous populations, influence the way people think about and act toward the environment.  Finally, it will contemplate a number of ways in which people might act, both individually and collectively, to bring about a more ecological society.  Prerequisite: One of the following: SOC 101 , SOC 102 , ANT 101 , ANT 102 , EST 123  or ENV 101 .  Offered alternate years.
    Social Science
  

  • SOC 343 - Women and War (1)

    Consideration of gender inequality as lived reality and locus of struggle. Topics include: cross-cultural analysis of sexual/racial violence, including violence in war; women’s resistances in civil rights, indigenous, development and human rights struggles. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN, GSS, or EST majors. Prerequisite: SOC 101 , SOC 102 , ANT 101 , ANT 102  , ANT 271 , EST 123 , or GSS 171 . Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
  

  • SOC 348 - Race and Ethnic Relations: Identity, Activism, and Social Justice (1)

    Various theoretical perspectives on race and ethnic relations, focusing on the United States. Topics include assimilation, ethnic conflict and U.S. immigration policy, the history of the civil rights, treaty rights and migrant farm worker struggles, the social construction of race, and signs of change in contemporary race and ethnic relations. This course may count toward the SOC, SAN or EST Majors. Prerequisite: One of the following: SOC 101 , SOC 102 , ANT 101 , ANT 102  , EST 123  or Writing Requirement (W). Alternate years.
    (Social Science)
 

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