First-Year Student Course Options
Before coming to summer orientation, First-Year students should review the fall course options and identify five choices to take in the fall. From those five course choices, most students will enroll in two of them in addition to the required first-year English composition course and First-Year Seminar.
Course Descriptions
Art History (AH)
AH111: Renaissance to Modern Art
Chronological survey of art from the Renaissance to the Modern World, spanning a period from 1400 to the 20th century. Selected works in architecture, sculpture and painting are studied as examples of the way in which the natural and social environment, together with ethical and religious beliefs, determine the forms and images of a culture’s art.
Anthropology (AN)
AN120: Cultural Anthropology
Systematic study of the customs, social organization, environmental adaptations and belief systems of primitive and contemporary societies. Considers cultural variations in technology, economy, language, families, government and religion, with a special emphasis on social and cultural change and global relations.
Biology (BI)
BI101: General Biology I
Introduction to the science of living organisms. Emphasis on molecular and cellular aspects of energy processing, cell reproduction and genetics. Three class hours and three laboratory hours weekly.
Business (BA)
BA101: International Business
This course is a basic survey of the fundamentals of business administration, looking at both external and internal factors that influence organizational decisions. The external factors include items such as political, economic and legal systems as well as different cultures. Internal factors include marketing, management, accounting, human resources, and finance. Considering the above, students examine the role of the organizational decision-maker operating in the global marketplace. Prerequisites: Mathematics proficiency at least at the level of MA100.
BA230: Legal Environment of Business
A first-level course. Surveys the business legal environment and legal subjects of practical utility to business. Emphasizes basic contractual concepts including formation, operation and discharge. Provides an introduction to governmental control of business.
Chemistry (CH)
CH100: The Language of Science
This course covers basic quantitative methods for introductory science courses. Includes dimensional and unit analysis in the SI and US customary system, elementary propagation of error analysis, problem solving with simultaneous equations, scientific notation, graphical analysis, and transcendental analysis. Prerequisites: Placement in MA110, a passing grade in MA100 or permission of the instructor to take it concurrently with MA100.
CH101: Modern Chemical Concepts I
Introduction to the principles of atomic structure, chemical bonding, states of matter, stereochemistry and their relation to the properties of selected inorganic and organic substances. Presents the historical development, methodology and philosophy of our current understanding of transformations of matter and energy from an experimental viewpoint. Three class hours and three laboratory hours weekly.
Communications (CM)
CM101: Introduction to Media Studies
This course is a comprehensive and critical introduction to processes, industries and institutions of mass media in this country and on a global scale. Beginning with brief historical backgrounds of media such as print, radio, film, television, internet and the new media, the course spans through major issues in the study of media in contemporary culture. A focused course for career preparation as well as for thinking about critical issues in the media. Strong interaction and encounters with major media forms is required. Emphasis on writing, conceptualization and analysis and basic techniques of research and presentation. Collaborative group projects are also included. Emphasis on global dimensions of media through our global focus program.
CM110: Speech Communications
A foundational course in fundamentals of speech, persuasion, articulation and techniques of delivering an effective speech presentation. Students will develop skills and understanding of what makes a good public speaker, along with practical exercises for various speech situations. The development of speaker’s strategies, research, writing skills and oral skills in speaking and presentation are emphasized. Practical exercises focus on four modes of speech communication (interpersonal, interview, informative, and persuasive speaking). Students acquire greater ease and confidence in public speaking and presentation. The Includes theory as well as practice of successful speech communication.
Criminal Justice (CJ)
CJ160: Crime and Punishment
Introduction to various aspects of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, the judicial process, and corrections and punishment. Also surveys sociological understanding of deviant and criminal behavior and of the historical changes in why and how we punish those who violate the law.
Computer Science (CS)
CS104: Computer as a Tool
Introduction to the computer as an information-processing tool. Surveys general-purpose programs: word processing, spreadsheets, database management and presentation graphics. Presents fundamental computer concepts: hardware, software and introduction to programming. Analyzes specialized uses of the computer in the arts, education, humanities and sciences. Considers the role of the computer in society. Prerequisite: Completion of MA095; or placement into MA100 or higher.
CS107: Web Site Development
This course examines the principles of Web page development from a technical standpoint. It is not a course in design, although it does touch on that area. After considering the relationship between design and function, students begin to actually write and demonstrate Web pages. Web pages will be implemented using both raw HTML and a code generator such as Front Page. If time permits, Java Script will be introduced. Prerequisites: CS104 or the equivalent.
CS201: Problem-Solving with Algorithms & Programming I
Introduction to the understanding of computer systems, the use of structured programming concepts, algorithm development, debugging and data analysis. Will be taught with a high-level programming language. Currently the language is “Java.” Prerequisites: MA100 or placement inventory.
English (EN)
EN100: Basic College Writing
Basic course in the process of writing and reading. Addresses special needs and problems on an individual basis. Required of all freshmen whose writing inventories indicate the need for special attention. For these students, this course is a prerequisite for EN101.
EN101: Thought and Expression I
Practice in writing for various academic aims and audiences. Includes a supervised process of invention strategies, first draft, revised drafts, final editing, and at least one assignment in library research and proper forms of documentation. Encourages peer reviews, small-group problem-solving activities and in-class discussions of interdisciplinary readings. Incorporates special events each semester: e.g., poetry or fiction readings, public lectures, theatre performances. Required of all freshmen. Prerequisite: for some freshmen, EN100.
EN107: Human Dilemmas: A Literary Perspective
Exploration of genres of poetry, short story, drama and film as ways of representing and working through human problems. Focuses on a core issue, problem, or theme chosen by the instructor. Class discussion includes students’ analyses of personal experiences as a further means of understanding the thematic focus of the course.
EN199: Interpreting Literature
Introductory course to develop the ability to read and write critically about literature. Analyzes the relationship of literary form to thematic and rhetorical function through examination of poetry, drama and prose fiction. Includes some use of research material in the field.
EN219.1: Contemporary Short Fiction
This course, unofficially but perhaps more appropriately titled “Dazed, Crazed, and Amazed,” will introduce students to a variety of contemporary short stories. Emphasis on the word short. Additionally, as our unofficial title suggests, there will be a heavy, though not exclusive, emphasis on comedy and what we might call the bizarre and outrageous (these are not technical terms). We will read a totally quirky, eclectic selection of works by a variety of authors from around the world, including: Margaret Atwood, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Sherman Alexie, Louise Erdrich, John Barth, Tim O’Brien, Susan Sontag, Amy Tan, Martin Amis, Nadine Gordimer, Hanif Kureishi, Haruki Murakami, and others. And we will read some stories that students will choose from our three anthologies!
From a serious point of view, this course will be conducted in a modified seminar format and by reading exclusively short works we will be able to examine and understand—in depth—what these authors are saying about contemporary (popular) culture(s). From a not-so-serious perspective, we will make every effort to have a lot of fun with some really funny, often strange, and deeply moving pieces of writing. Please note that this course assumes no prior experience with short fiction in particular or literature in general.
EN219.2: Chants, Rants and Funky Stories: African American Literature
How does one scream in thunder? This course is a survey of African American Literature throughout the 20th century that asks the question “How do we read these works in a post-Obama America?” We will focus on works that deal with problems immediate in our own time—economics, war, crime, environmental concerns, etc.—along with long-standing identity issues surrounding gender, class, sexuality, and, oh yeah, race. Readings will include poetry, fiction, and drama with supplementary readings of art, documentaries, and music. Possible authors include Langston Hughes, Zora Neal Hurston, Fran Ross, Robert Hayden, Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, the Last Poets, Tupac Shakur, and several local writers.
EN226: Detective Fiction
This course is a survey of different forms and sub-genres of suspenseful fiction. We read texts that range from shot, classic mysteries to hardboiled novels to police procedurals. In doing so, we use the opportunities offered by the characters’ responses to crime to explore, among other concepts, justice and law and the difference between the two. As we read texts from different nations and different historical periods we examine how these texts reflect and/or create shifts in cultural, social, and literary values. Students are required to read closely and critically, and to share and exchange ideas in both verbal and written formats. In addition to posting to a class discussion board, the students extend their critical analysis in a series of short analytical papers and a longer final project that incorporates background research.
EN229: Voices of America
The aim of this course is to study the diverse American literary heritage. It explores the relationship of the texts to the intellectual, historical and social conditions that produced them. Will likely include readings from 20th and 21st century authors such as Ralph Ellison, Toni Morrison, Sherman Alexie, Edwidge Danticat and Sandra Cisneros.
Fine Arts (FA)
FA103: Studio Art: Foundations
Introduction to the basic elements of two-dimensional design and the principles that govern visual organization. Students explore the language of line, shape, pattern and color. This course also examines the principles of the figure-ground relationships, unity, rhythm, movement, tension and balance, and the role they play in visual composition. Six studio hours weekly and independent work. Required for art majors but also may be taken by any student who wishes to understand the formal qualities at work in art.
FA104: Drawing I
This course includes a wide range of experiences that focus on developing the student’s ability to perceive space, light and form, and to express them two-dimensionally. Drawing I places particular emphasis on line. The course is designed to give students a thorough grounding in the conceptual, formal and expressive nature of drawing, along with attention to process. Six studio hours weekly and independent work.
Geography (GO)
GEO185: Foundations of Geography
This course covers the distributions, traits, and processes of the earth's landscapes and people. Through the perspective of regional geography, which is the study of the spatial relationships of natural environments and human societies, we can begin to understand the synergies and conflicts that exist in our world. Topics such as climate change, urban sprawl, sustainability, and environmental protection will be covered in detail.
Health Administration (HA)
HA150: Introduction to Health Services
This foundation course provides an overview of the current health delivery system, including: health care institutions, long-term care, health manpower, financing and managed care. Students also are introduced to diverse topics such as quality care, health care planning/policy and ethics.
History (HS)
HS103: European Civilization: 1347 to 1789
Survey of European history from the Black Death to the French Revolution. Focuses on a variety of topics, from the impact of the plague; the age of explorations; Renaissance; Reformation; through to the origins of the scientific; industrial; and French revolutions.
HS110: The West in the World, From the Great Voyages of Discovery to 9/11
This course examines the rise to global power of West (primarily Europe and North America and their offshoots) after about 1500, its impact on the world, and the response of non-Western societies, until and including 9/11.
HS117: American History to 1865
Summary of the colonial period, followed by more intensive study of the revolutionary, early national and middle periods. Includes lectures, readings and discussions on such topics as constitutional development; territorial expansion; foreign relations; political parties; social, economic and intellectual movements and the origins and course of the Civil War.
HS211: Modern Middle East
Survey of the history, culture, religion and politics of the region in the modern era. Includes study of the growth of nationalism and creation of sovereign states, the Arab-Israeli conflict and the Palestinian problem, war, terrorism and the impact of foreign powers.
International Studies (IS)
IS130: Coexistence and Conflict in the Modern Mediterranean World
This course enables students to become knowledgeable about the geopolitically strategic as well as socio-cultural importance of the Mediterranean region, both historically and in the modern era. Students will learn about the strategic waterways, land and air routes, the Suez Canal, and the nature of war and peace and how the conflicts in the region have affected global peace, stability, and security. The course examines the Arab-Israeli conflict, the impact of immigration and migration into the EU, trade patterns, and cultural, ethnic, religious, and linguistic identities and how they affect regional relations.
IS160: Globalization, Development, and Human Rights
This course focuses on the general definitions and perceptions of the concepts of globalization, development and human rights, as well as their more specific dimensions (e.g., economic globalization, cultural globalization, economic development, human development, political development, and women’s human rights.)
Mathematics (MA)
MA095: Pre-Algebra (Math Skills)
Helps students prepare for MA100 through formal instruction and self-paced computer tutorial. Basic mathematical skills will be covered. Topics include operations on whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percents, ratios, proportions, signed numbers, areas of geometric figures, and an introduction to the solutions of linear equations. Graded on a pass/fail basis and 0 credits.
MA100: Elementary/Intermediate Algebra
Introduction to the fundamental concepts and processes of elementary and intermediate algebra, with an emphasis on problem solving. This course is geared both to the individual needing a review of algebra and those attempting to overcome math anxiety. Topics include operations with signed numbers, solving and graphing equations and inequalities, operations with polynomials, factoring, radicals, exponents, and quadratic equations.
MA110: Pre-Calculus Mathematics
Introduction to basic mathematical ideas and techniques centered on the function concepts. Includes relations and functions in general, algebraic functions, trigonometric functions, exponential and logarithmic functions. Prerequisite: MA100 or placement inventory.
MA117: Mathematical Concepts I
An introduction to mathematical reasoning and problem-solving. The course will emphasize writing, individual and group investigations, and the use of relevant technology. Content will focus on number theory, college geometry, and the concept of infinity. Prerequisite: MA100 or placement inventory.
MA141: Elementary Statistics
Introduction to basic statistical techniques and their applications to the sciences, social sciences and business administration. Includes the collection and presentation of data, measures of central tendency and variability, probability, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, and introduction to analysis of variance. Students learn to use common computer packages in statistics. Prerequisite: MA100 or placement inventory.
MA145: Quantitative Models for Decision Making (Finite Math)
Study of applications of mathematical functions, linear equations, linear inequalities and matrix algebra to solve business decision-making problems utilizing computer-based spreadsheets. Prerequisite: MA100 or placement inventory.
MA201: Calculus I
Introduction to basic calculus. Presents limits, continuity, the derivation, the definite and indefinite integral, applications. Prerequisite: MA110 or placement inventory.
MA230: Discrete Structures
Introduction to discrete mathematical structures with applications in computer science. Includes basic set algebra, functions, Boolean algebra, propositional logic, graph theory and trees. Prerequisite: MA100 or placement inventory.
Modern Language Courses
Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish
SP103: Intensive Spanish I
An accelerated and intensive 4 days-per-week course of Spanish at the beginner level. It is preferred that the student has one or two years of high school background in Spanish. A student must place into Spanish 101 at Arcadia in order to take this accelerated course.
Music (MU)
MU101: Introduction to Reading and Writing Music
An elementary course in the elements and fundamentals of music, stressing practical application of clefs, scales, keys, rhythms and meters, chords, and a functional knowledge of the general field of music. Includes the nature and organization of various kinds of performing groups, the business of music and copyright and publishing aspects. No prior knowledge of music is necessary.
MU141: Survey of Jazz
Chronological survey of jazz as an art form from its origins to the present, with special emphasis on stylistic tendencies, performers, composers, arrangers and social implications. Intended to enhance the appreciation of jazz and to consider the perspective of specific social and economic conditions, which influenced the development of styles and trends.
MU151: The Enjoyment of Music
A study of masterworks in music and composers from the earliest times to the present day. Doctrines of taste and listening techniques are emphasized along with the background of social and political events of each historical period.
MU215: Broadway Musicals
Survey course tracing the development of musicals from the early 20th century to the present. Studies include the evolution of various styles, important composers, librettists and lyricists, and common performance practices. Considering significant social trends as they impact on this art form enhances perspective. This course is designed to acquaint students with the elements of this kind of drama with music and to enhance aesthetic pleasures through enlightened observation and timely indulgence. No prior knowledge of music is necessary.
Political Science (PS)
PS101: American Politics
Overview of the American political process as an experiment in self-government. Considers the nature and character of Americans and their democracy. Examines parties, elections, voting, the presidency, Congress and the courts through readings, films, lectures and discussions.
PS110: Law and the Legal Process
Introduction to criminal law, civil law, constitutional law and legal reasoning. Examines legal education, due process, courtroom participants and alternatives to trials in the framework of the pursuit of justice.
PS150: Comparative Politics
Comparison of the political culture and governmental structure of various nations with one another and with the United States. Examines the established and emerging democracies of Europe and the developing nations. Focuses on England, Germany, Russia and a developing nation.
PS215: Gender Roles and Family Policy
Examination of civic obligations and gender differences in political participation, political candidacy and public service at the local, state and national levels. Introduces domestic family issues such as education, pregnancy, childcare, poverty and violence. Includes an experiential learning or community service component.
PS241: International Relations
Survey of the development and major characteristics of the state system; the elements of national power; the instruments of international relations; and their general application within the international community. Focuses on specific international problems.
Public Health (PBH)
PBH110: Introduction to Public Health
This course is designed to provide an overview of public health globally, with an emphasis on the United States. The course will focus on the population health perspective, including the impact on the healthcare system and the environment and the specific needs of underserved populations. A history and background of public health will be included to provide a framework for understanding how health and healthcare evolved globally and within the U.S. The course will provide an introduction to disease incidence and prevalence, and how the frequency, distribution, and determinants of disease affect how resources are allocated to target health conditions and health disparities.
Psychology (PY)
PY111: Introduction to Psychology
An introduction to the science of psychology. Presents major psychological concepts, theories, and research methods, findings and applications. Covers basic statistics, behavioral neuroscience, sensation and perception, learning, memory, cognition, human development, motivation, emotion, social psychology, personality, psychological disorders, therapy, and stress and coping. Includes all topics normally covered in a course in educational psychology.
PY153: Social Psychology
Study of the effect of the social situation on the individual: social interaction, conformity, group processes, attitude, attitude change, stereotyping, prejudice, aggression and environmental psychology. Includes class discussions, readings and research projects. Not open to psychology majors.
Religion (RE)
RE115: Understanding the Old Testament
A study of the Hebrew Scriptures through assigned readings in the English translation of the Old Testament. Class lectures and discussions will emphasize understanding of the text in the context of the historical background as well as the genre of literature in which each individual book was written. A summary review of the content and basic intent of each book will be considered as well as its placement in the whole collection of books traditionally accepted as the Old Testament.
RE117: Essentials of Judaism: Major Beliefs and Practices
Study of the development of Rabbinic Judaism as an outgrowth of Biblical civilization. Considers major value concepts of Rabbinic Judaism: God, Israel, Torah; faith and reason; nationality and universality; Messianism.
Sociology (SO)
SO101: Introductory Sociology
Overview of the discipline of sociology is presented. Focus on social groups and their effects on individuals. Content areas cover culture, social structure and social change as well as an introduction to social research. Additionally, special emphasis is placed on stratification in society in terms of social class, race, gender and age. Includes class discussion and group assignments.
SO150: Contemporary Social Problems
Study of contemporary social problems from a global perspective. Examines population, environmental depletion and destruction, violence and war, racial and ethnic conflict, migration, gender inequality and other problems that occur internationally and that are interrelated. Analyzes assumptions underlying popular and theoretical explanations of social problems, as well as programs and policies aimed at alleviating them.
SO220: Introduction to Africana Studies
This course is designed to provide students with a broad interpretive and multidisciplinary approach to the historical, theoretical and philosophical perspectives of peoples of African, African descent and the Diaspora. Students will be introduced to the discipline of Africana Studies in the following areas: politics, the arts, folklore, religion, economics, sociology, psychology and community development. In addition, students will examine and analyze local history, contemporary issues, and recent events in various communities of people of African descent with a special focus on analyzing and proposing solutions to contemporary issues and problems that adversely affect these communities locally and nationally.
SO229: Women in Society
Surveys the effect of cultural values, social institutions and sex roles on women’s lives. Analyzes sources of gender inequality, especially in terms of the social construction of gender and sexuality. Examines the intersections of race, class, and sexuality for women. Draws heavily on student participation to integrate personal gender experiences with a base of knowledge about women.
SO230: Racism: Myths and Realities
This course will provide a critical examination of how racism is operationalized in American society and its impact on the historical, social, psychological and spiritual relationship between Black and White Americans. Students will have an opportunity to investigate both past and present racist practices and events, analyze how the practice of racism and culture interface and effects of racism on Black and White Americans.
Theatre (TH)
TH140: Fundamentals of Acting
Students work on basic acting skills such as developing the ability to produce free, imaginative, and purposeful behavior in relation to environments, objects, and other persons; individual silent exercises; group exercises. This work leads to in-class performances of selected scenes from a variety of American contemporary plays with special focus given to the sensory requirements in the text. No previous experience required.
TH141: Role Play and Improvisation
In exploring dimensions of theatrical self-expression, this course will employ lecture, discussion and classroom activities to raise issues that stretch self-awareness through dramatic interaction involving imagination and creativity. Through theatre games and dramatic situations the student will learn a variety of performance skills and will find them selves exploring their own creative and artistic possibilities. No previous experience required.
TH150: Improvisation
Work on improvisation is central to the formation of an actor; it is a kind of research-a way of working through which the actor’s experiences pass to nourish their imagination. Without the help of a playwright or director, the actor creates and presents a full dramatic life. Improvisation develops the faculties of invention, imagination and concentration and at the same time gives the actor a sense of freedom.
Th301: Script Analysis
There’s no other way to say it: reading plays is difficult. To read a play in print is to encounter a work of art in unfinished and incomplete form. Visual artistry, physical presence and live audience dynamics are reduced to flat, static words on a page. In this course, we will explore and practice with various techniques for reading and analyzing scripts: techniques designed to help theater artists discover more fully the dynamic potential of theatrical texts as blueprints for live performance. We will work with several techniques for analyzing play texts, explore conventional play genre labels (tragedy, comedy and tragicomedy), and examine the ideas of key theorists in Western theater history (Aristotle, Brecht, Artaud), to discover different perspectives from which plays may be read and evaluated critically. Class discussions, online discussions and writing assignments will provide opportunities to develop and refine the critical/analytical skills addressed in course readings.
Th320E: Special Topics in Stage Craft: Dance
This is a modern dance technique class focusing on the connection and coordination of the upper and lower body. To this end, emphasis is placed on increasing abdominal strength thereby gaining freedom and fluidity in the limbs. Warm ups and exercises will increase strength, stretch and stamina. Traveling sequences are geared toward gaining rhythmic accuracy and coordination. Class combinations and exercises increase in length and difficulty throughout the semester. No previous experience necessary.
Th321: Dance & Choreography
Movement is inherently dramatic. Explore the wide range of movement that exists within our bodies and the world around us. This is a studio course that explores the elements of dance making and the craft of choreography through the manipulation of time, space and energy. The movement material explored will be pedestrian movement and stylized dance. Each student works within his/her own technical skill level to uncover the endless possibilities of movement within the human body and the vast opportunities for communication of the human experience. No previous experience necessary.
Th322: Stage Combat
Starting with the basics of hand-to-hand combat, or weaponless fighting, the students are introduced to the idea of personal safety, how to be safe and remain safe on stage. All the fundamental moves every actor needs to get by in this business. Students then study and practice the art of the sword. Learn the techniques that keep the actor safe long after training is over. Course work includes training in unarmed and single sword. No previous experience necessary.
