Home > Academics > Course Descriptions > P

PHIL110 - Introduction to Philosophy (3-0-3)

 In this course, students will be introduced to the important ideas in Western philosophy. The course will emphasize the Greek origins of philosophy, the transformation of philosophy by Enlightenment thought in the 17th and 18th centuries, and the post-modern reaction to Enlightenment thought. The course will relate philosophical ideas to contemporary issues. (Fulfills Humanities requirement.)

PHIL215 - World Religions (3-0-3)

 The course is an introduction to the major religions of the world. The origins, core beliefs, traditions, and practices will be discussed. The purpose of the course is to understand and appreciate the various religious theories and practices by focusing on key texts, figures and ideas. The approach will strive to be descriptive, not prescriptive. Students will gain initial exposure to the structure and world-view of the religions covered. Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Buddhism will be covered. Additional religions may also be included based on instructor and student interest (African, Native American and new wave, Taoism, Confucianism, Baha'i, Zoroastrianism, Sikhism, etc.). (Fulfills Humanities requirement.)

PHIL240 - Ethics (3-0-3)

 This course is designed to introduce students to general ethical theories, philosophies, and decision-making models. The goal of the course is to relate theory to practice. Throughout the course, this general knowledge will be applied to specific problems and cases. Applications may include general ethical issues and more career-specific issues determined by student interest. (Fulfills Humanities requirement.)

PHYS100 - Introductory Physics (2-3-3)

 This course is a conceptual introduction to the basic principles related to the composition of matter, mechanical properties of solids and fluids, forces and static equilibrium, potential and kinetic energy, power, and force transformers. Emphasis is placed on the development of problem solving techniques and on the appropriate application of those concepts to solve problems. Dimensional/unit analysis is stressed. Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in MATH135 or equivalent.

PHYS110 - Physical Science I (3-2-4)

 Physical Science I concentrates a “hands-on” exploration of the basic principles of the physical world. The course is designed to foster a better understanding of the environment that surrounds us and to serve as a foundation for further study in science. Concepts explored include mechanics, heat, temperature, electricity and magnetism, sound, and light. Prerequisite: MATH 080.

PHYS120 - Physical Science II (3-2-4)

 A continuation of the "hands-on" exploration of the basic concepts of physical science initiated during the first term of Physical Science. Concepts explored include the atom, atomic models, and selected topics in chemistry, earth science, and astronomy. Success in the first semester is a prerequisite to the second semester. Success in both will enable the student to pursue advanced science courses of physics, chemistry, earth science, and astronomy. Prerequisite: PHYS110.

PHYS135 - College Physics I (3-3-4)

 This course is an introduction to the basic principles of Newtonian mechanics with emphasis on the application of these principles when solving problems. Topics to be covered include kinematics of motion, vectors, Newton's laws, friction, work-energy, impulse-momentum for both translational and rotational motion, and the mechanical properties of matter. Dimensional (unit) analysis and critical thinking are stressed. Prerequisite: C or better in MATH141 or equivalent.

PHYS136 - College Physics II (3-3-4)

 This course is a continuation of the study of elementary physics that began in College Physics I. Special emphasis is placed on the principles introduced when solving problems. Topics to be investigated include the fundamentals and the applications of Coulomb's Law, electrical fields and potentials, capacitance, electric current and resistance, DC circuits, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, AC circuits, oscillating systems and waves, and geometric optics. Prerequisite/Corequisite: C- or better in MATH171 or equivalent.

POL110 - American Government (3-0-3)

 This course is an introduction to the basic structures of the political process in the United States. It explains political activity at the national, state and local levels. Specific topics include an analysis of the Constitution; the powers of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches; the power of bureaucracy and the media; and the pervasiveness of federalism. Campaigns, elections, political parties and interest groups will also be discussed. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

POL210 - Introduction to Political Science (3-0-3)

 This course is an introduction to the field of political science. Political ideologies, nationalism, cultures, and institutions will be discussed, as well as public opinion, political parties, interest groups, and voting behavior. Throughout the course, the concepts of power and legitimacy, elitism and pluralism will guide discussion. American and comparative examples will be utilized. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC110 - Introduction to Psychology (3-0-3)

 This course is an introduction to various areas of psychology, including scientific investigation and prominent theories. Topics include, but are not limited to, motivation, emotions, personality, physiological foundations of behavior, psychological disorders and therapy, perception, learning, and human development. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC112 - Learning and Behavior (3-0-3)

 This course discusses the history and principles of behaviorism and present a learning theory and teaching techniques based on positive behavioral principles. Presentation and discussion focuses on the ethical and client right issues of positive behavior change, and recent trends and techniques for applying learning principles in a variety of settings. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC118 - Theories of Personality (3-0-3)

 This course introduces students to the various theoretical models explaining human behavior. Currently accepted and historically significant theories will be presented and students will participate in critical analysis of each theory. Application of currently accepted theories in such areas as assessment of personality and connections to adjustment issues will be discussed as well. Prerequisite: PSYC110 (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC120 - Leadership Development (3-0-3)

 A study of leadership and the skills manifest in effective leaders. Topics include articulating a vision, goal setting, decision making, managing time, team building, empowering others, initiating change, managing conflict, applying ethics, and serving as a leader. This course provides the opportunity for students to develop a personal leadership philosophy, as well as essential leadership skills, through study, observation, and application. Prerequisite: ENGL110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC210 - Human Growth and Development (3-0-3)

 This course is a study of human growth and development with a specific emphasis on the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional dimensions relative to the prenatal period through later adulthood. An examination of major theorists is presented during the course. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC215 - Abnormal Psychology (3-0-3)

 This course develops an understanding of human behavior and the similarities and differences between normal and abnormal reactions to environmental stimuli. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC220 - Adult Development (4-0-4)

 This course offers a detailed discussion of adult development, including cognitive, social, and personality development, and other issues. A major focus of the course will be on the application of theories of typical development to the challenge of aging. Students will also be required to participate in 45 hours of community service focusing on the provision of support to individuals experiencing challenges related to their development through adulthood. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC230 - Educational Psychology (3-0-3)

 This course reviews the application of psychological principles to the educational environment. Theories of cognitive processes and development, learning, and social and moral development are discussed as they apply to learning and teaching. Issues involving assessment, classroom management, individual differences, and socioeconomic and developmental influences on learning are also presented. Application of theoretical perspectives to classroom teaching will be emphasized. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

PSYC235 - Health Psychology (3-0-3)

This course is created to help the student understand issues of health and wellness based on the triangle of health psychology: mind, body, and spirit. It is designed to have the student better understand the role that stress, mindset, positive and negative relationships, and life choices play in one’s overall health. The course also addresses stress reduction concepts, positive coping styles, the formation of healthy relationships, and the building of healthy lifestyles, as well as the affect that all of these have on one’s overall quality of life. This course brings to the students’ awareness the factors and behavioral methods that facilitate a resilient quality of life that is very different in nature and practice from the coping style of psychosocial survival. Prerequisite: PSYC110 with a grade of C or better. (Fulfills Social Science Requirement)