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PHIL PHYS POL PSYC

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

Introduces the important ideas in Western philosophy, with emphasis on 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 relates philosophical ideas to contemporary issues. (Fulfills Humanities requirement.) Offered every spring.

PHIL215 - World Religions (3-0-3)

Introduces the major religions of the world, including their origins, core beliefs, traditions, and practices. 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. Additional religions may be included based on instructor and student interest (African, Native American and new wave, Taoism, Confucianism, Baha’i, Zoroastrianism, Sikhism, etc.). (Fulfills Humanities requirement.) Offered every fall.

PHIL240 - Ethics (3-0-3)

Introduces students to general ethical theories, philosophies, and decision-making models. with the goal of relating theory to practice. 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.) Offered every fall.

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PHYS100 - Introductory Physics (2-3-3)

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. Emphasizes the development of problem solving techniques and the appropriate application of those concepts to solve problems. Dimensional/unit analysis is stressed. Prereq: a C or better in MATH135 or equivalent.

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

A "hands-on" exploration of the basic principles of the physical world, this 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)

Continues the "hands-on" exploration of the basic concepts initiated during PHYS110. 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)

Introduces the basic principles of Newtonian mechanics with emphasis on the application of these principles when solving problems. Topics 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)

Continues the study of elementary physics that began in College Physics I. Emphasis is on the principles introduced when solving problems. Topics 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.

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POL110 - American Government (3-0-3)

Introduces the basic structures of the U.S. political process, and explains political activity at national, state and local levels. 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, as well as campaigns, elections, political parties and interest groups. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.) Offered every semester.

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

Introduces the field of political science. Political ideologies, nationalism, cultures, and institutions are discussed, as well as public opinion, political parties, interest groups, and voting behavior. The concepts of power and legitimacy, elitism and pluralism will guide discussion. American and comparative examples are used. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.) Offered every fall.

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

Introduces various areas of psychology, including scientific investigation and prominent theories. Topics include motivation, emotions, personality, physiological foundations of behavior, psychological disorders and therapy, perception, learning, and human development. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.) Offered every semester.

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

Discusses the history and principles of behaviorism and presents a learning theory and teaching techniques based on positive behavioral principles. Presentation and discussion focus 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.) Offered every spring.

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

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

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. 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.) Offered every other spring.

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

A study of human growth and development with a specific emphasis on the physical, cognitive, social and emotional dimensions from the prenatal period to later adulthood. An examination of major theorists is presented. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.) Offered every semester.

PSYC215 - Abnormal Psychology (3-0-3)

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.) Offered every semester.

PSYC217 - Chemical Dependency (3-0-3)

Introduces the concepts of chemical dependency as related to the individual and the family. This course discusses the disease concept of chemical dependency, the concept of denial, models for change, and available treatment options for people with chemical dependency and related issues. Prerequisite: ENGL110 or equivalent with a grade of C or better, or permission of the instructor. Offered every fall.

PSYC220 - Adult Development (3-3-4)

Presents a detailed discussion of adult development, including cognitive, social, and personality development, and other issues, with a focus on the application of theories of typical development to the challenge of aging. Students will 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.) Offered every fall.

PSYC230 - Educational Psychology (3-0-3)

Reviews the application of psychological principles to the educational environment. Covers theories of cognitive processes and development, learning, and social and moral development as they apply to learning and teaching. Issues involving assessment, classroom management, individual differences, and socioeconomic and developmental influences on learning are also presented. Emphasizes the application of theoretical perspective to classroom teaching. Prerequisite: PSYC110. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.) Offered every spring.

PSYC235 - Health Psychology (3-0-3)

Covers issues of health and wellness based on the triangle of health psychology -- mind, body, and spirit -- to help students understand the role that stress, mindset, positive and negative relationships, and life choices play in one’s overall health. Also addresses stress reduction concepts, positive coping styles, the formation of healthy relationships, and the building of healthy lifestyles, as well as the effect 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. Prereq: PSYC110 with a grade of C or better. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.) Offered every spring.

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