May 16, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


In special cases, students may seek a waiver of stated course prerequisites by obtaining written approval of their academic advisor, the course instructor, and the appropriate school dean.

 

Music

  
  • MBU 499 - Music Business Internship

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An off-campus experiential learning activity designed to provide students with opportunities to make connections between the theory and practice of academic study and the practical application of that study in a professional work environment within the music business industry. 

      3 Credit(s). Approximately 10-15 hours a week on site. Contact Hour(s).


    Prerequisite(s): MBU 201  and MBU 301  

  
  • MUS 100 - Music Appreciation

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to the various aspects of the art of music. Included is a brief survey of the major periods of music, together with listening to and discussion of representative works of selected composers from each period. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Fine Arts Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • MUS 102 - Music Fundamentals

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A basic course for the student interested in becoming competent with the elements of music reading and its applications to singing and the playing of simple songs. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Fine Arts Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • MUS 105 - Music Theory I

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Music Theory I introduces the foundations of common-practice melody, harmony, and voice leading. It focuses on written analysis of these foundations found in Western classical music of the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.

      2 Credit(s). 160 Contact minutes Contact Hour(s).


    Prerequisite(s): Passing a simple music theory placement exam administered by Ferrum College music faculty. 

     
    Course Session Cycle: Fall
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every

  
  • MUS 106 - Aural Skills Lab I

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Students will practice melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictation as well as sight-singing. Music majors must also register for the co-requisite course, Music Theory 1, the same semester.

      1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).


    Course Session Cycle: Fall

  
  • MUS 107 - Music Theory II

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Music Theory II expands on the study of foundations of common-practice melody, harmony, and voice leading studied in Music Theory I. It also focuses on written analysis in Western classical music of the nineteenth century (Romantic Period) and early twentieth century (Modern Period), with a strong emphasis in chromatic harmonies and sonata form. 

      2 Credit(s).


    Course Session Cycle: Spring

  
  • MUS 108 - Aural Skills Lab II

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Continuing after Aural Skills Lab I, students will practice more advanced melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic dictation as well as sight-singing individually and in a group setting. A passing grade in Aural Skills I is a prerequisite for this course; however, music majors must also register for the co-requisite course, Music Theory 1I, the same semester.  1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 106  
    Course Session Cycle: Spring
  
  • MUS 111, 112 to 411, 412 - Concert Choir

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This large group studies choral literature from all periods of music history and performs in campus and off-campus concerts and programs. Open to all college students each semester without auditions, the Ferrum College Concert Choir requires public performance. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 117, 118 to 417, 418 - Collegiates

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This auditioned group performs choral literature from the Renaissance to the contemporary, suited to the number of singers. The focus is to achieve excellence in ensemble balance, rapport, technique, and style. Public performance required. Attire Fee required. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 119, 120 to 419, 420 - Band

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    The Band performs regularly at Ferrum College athletic events and is open to students that have prior instrumental experience. Students receive one hour credit for each semester that they participate in Band. Public performance required. Attire Fee required. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 121, 122 to 421, 422 - Handbell Ensemble

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    The Handbell Ensemble, open to students who read rhythm, performs original music for handbells as well as transcriptions of hymns, classical favorites, and folk and show tunes. Students receive one hour credit for each semester that they participate in the group. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 123, 124 to 423, 424 - Jazz Combo

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    The Jazz Combo performs regularly and is open to students that have prior experience. Students in the Jazz Combo study music that traces the history of the idiom. Students receive one hour credit for each semester that they participate in the group. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

  
  • MUS 127, 128 to 427, 428 - Classical Ensemble

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    The Classical Ensemble performs regularly and is open to students that have prior experience. The Classical Ensemble explores chamber music and works composed for concert band. Students receive one hour credit for each semester that they participate. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

  
  • MUS 143, 144 - Piano Class

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    A group setting for beginning piano instruction and music reading. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 145 - The World of Piano

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to piano playing, coupled with a survey of historic keyboard masterpieces from Bach to Rachmaninov. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Fine Arts Requirement.
  
  • MUS 151, 152 to 451, 452 - Private Music Lessons

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Applied one-half hour music lessons are available in voice, piano, and other musical instruments as approved by the instructor. This course has an additional fee. 1 Credit(s). 0.5 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 153 - Voice Class

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Class instruction in the basic and intermediate techniques of singing through lecture and demonstration, group instruction, and individual participation. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 154 - Voice Class

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Class instruction in the basic and intermediate techniques of singing through lecture and demonstration, group instruction, and individual participation. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • MUS 155 - Guitar Class

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Basic techniques for playing solos and accompaniments. Students need to provide an acoustical guitar, preferably with nylon strings, and study material. Beginners only. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

  
  • MUS 161, 162 to 461, 462 - Applied Music Lessons

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Applied one-hour music lessons are available in voice, piano, and other musical instruments as approved by the instructor. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 1 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 310 - Introduction to Conducting

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This course introduces the foundations and common-practice techniques of the art of conducting. Students will learn baton technique as well as score study and rehearsal techniques. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 105 MUS 106 MUS 107 , and  MUS 108  
    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • MUS 358 - Music: Baroque and Classic Periods

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Familiarizes students with the history of Western musical culture, helps them understand how music reflects the society from which it originates, and acquaints them with masterpieces and developments from 1620 to 1800. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Fine Arts Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): MUS 100 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • MUS 359 - Music: Romantic and Modern Periods

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Familiarizes students with the history of Western musical culture, helps them understand how music reflects the society from which it originates, and acquaints them with masterpieces and developments from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Fine Arts Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): MUS 100 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • MUS 426 - Music for Children

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Principles of music development in children. Includes emphasis on selection of materials for children, classroom techniques for musical development. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Fine Arts Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • MUS 428 - Foundations in Music Education

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    This course focuses on the foundations of music education and the transition from music student to music teacher and professional. Students will learn to describe different music learning theories and visit local area schools for observations. 

      2 Credit(s).


    Course Session Cycle: Spring

  
  • MUS 465 - Senior Recital

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    The Senior Recital is the final project for music performance majors at Ferrum College. It consists of a 45-to-50-minute public performance of repertoire studied in applied music lessons. Successful completion of the pre-recital jury in the fall and enrollment in applied lessons the semester of the recital are requirements for this course. 

      1 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s): Passing a pre-recital jury and seven semesters of applied lessons.
    Course Session Cycle: Spring

  
  • MUS 480 - Music Seminar: Advanced Topics in Performance

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Provides intensive study in a particular topic in music that is not available through other courses or internship. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor.

Natural Science and Mathematics

  
  • NSM 190, 290, 390 or 490 - Special Topics

    Credit Hour(s): 1-4
    A course that allows the faculty, in response to student interest, to offer a class not normally in the schedule. 1-4 Credit(s).

  
  • NSM 398 - Junior Seminar

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Students will study current issues and research in a seminar format. Outside speakers, students, and faculty will make presentations in junior and senior seminars. Papers from the scientific literature will be analyzed and criticized. Students will synthesize theoretical and practical experience in preparation for a successful career. 3 Credit(s). 3.5 Contact Hour(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course. This course is designated Speaking Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the three-credit hour Speaking Intensive courses required for graduation from Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the speaking assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • NSM 399 - Professional Preparation

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    All students preparing to do internships in the Natural Sciences must complete this course. Students will demonstrate the ability to seek, secure, and prepare for a professional job. Using individual and group conferences, instructors assist students in finding potential internships, completing resumes, cover letters, and interviews, and in developing skills in career planning. 1 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • NSM 498 - Senior Seminar

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    As a review of the College career and as a preparation for the life ahead, this course uses reading, writing, listening, speaking, and synthesis as means to develop student self-awareness and confidence. Exercises in this class allow students to investigate their own practical and theoretical experience and to forge new relationships with their past lives and their future expectations. 3 Credit(s). 3.5 Contact Hour(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course. This course is designated Speaking Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the three-credit hour Speaking Intensive courses required for graduation from Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the speaking assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher and NSM 398 .
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • NSM 499 - Internship

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Internships are normally spent in a 400-hour off-campus work situation or voluntary service activity. They are carefully supervised and designed to provide practical experience in areas related to academic coursework. This course has an additional fee. 3 Credit(s). 400 Service Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): NSM 399  and 2.0 grade point average.

Philosophy

  
  • PHI 101 - Logic

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to the various ways of distinguishing correct from incorrect reasoning. The course deals with Aristotelian as well as propositional logic and includes discussions focusing on the nature of an argument, informal fallacies, validity, and the differences between deductive and inductive argumentation. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PHI 131 - The Human Condition

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to the fundamental philosophical questions which arise within the context of human experience and to various methods of addressing these questions. The issues are introduced through an illumination of the human condition in Biblical texts. Students ponder, among other things, the meaning of life, the nature of reality and human existence, the possibility of freedom, the existence of God, and the meanings of truth, goodness, and beauty. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Bible-based Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PHI 207 - Selected Topics in Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of a selected philosophical issue. The topic under consideration varies from semester to semester according to periodic assessments of the needs and interests of students. Students may take only one 207 course as one of the two courses required to meet the general education requirement in philosophy. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PHI 211 - Ethics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An examination of the theoretical foundations of moral decision-making and their application to contemporary moral problems. Participants deal with consequentialist and non-consequentialist ethical systems, natural law, the question of moral responsibility, ethical egoism, and ethical relativism. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PHI 221 - Survey of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A historical introduction to the major thinkers and dominant issues in the Western philosophical tradition from the pre-Socratic period to the Renaissance. The course includes discussions of Plato, Aristotle, St. Augustine, and St. Thomas Aquinas. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PHI 222 - Survey of Modern Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A historical introduction to the major thinkers and dominant issues in the Western philosophical tradition from the 17th century to the beginning of the 19th century. Beginning with Descartes, the course includes discussions of the rationalist and empiricist traditions and culminates in the philosophy of Kant. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PHI 321 - 19th Century Continental Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An examination of the dominant thinkers and themes of the 19th century continental philosophy. Beginning with a discussion of the retrieval and criticism of Kant by the German Idealists, the course proceeds to focus on the philosophy of Hegel and subsequent responses to it. The thinkers covered include Hegel, Marx, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PHI 331 - Metaphysics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An examination of some of the fundamental problems in metaphysics such as the nature of reality, space and time, causality, and God. Special attention is given to determinism and the question of human freedom, as well as the mind/body relation. The course may also include development in contemporary metaphysics of experience. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): One course of philosophy.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PHI 332 - Phenomenology and Existentialism

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Examines the thoughts of 20th century existential philosophers and the phenomenological method which many of these thinkers find indispensable to philosophical inquiry. The course also involves discussions of the significance of existential thinking and phenomenological methods for other disciplines, e.g., psychology and theology. Thinkers to be studied may include Husserl, Heidegger, Sartre, and Merleau-Ponty. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PHI 411 - The Nature and Justification of the State

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course will examine the meaning of a sovereign state, and whether it is possible to justify its existence on moral grounds. It will first consider the theoretical issues of how states might come into existence without violating any basic moral principles, and if that is possible, whether the resulting state would be morally superior to anarchy. In addition, if the state is justifiable at all, how extensive a state can be justified? Students will consider state of nature, utilitarian, contractual, and libertarian theories. The second element of the course involves the consideration of specific actions of states in order to determine the extent to which those actions might be unjustifiable even if the state ultimately is justifiable. The issues here will include the use of force, punishment, paternalism, taxation, prohibition, redistribution, conscription, and war. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PHI 431 - Philosophy of Religion

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is an in-depth examination of some of the basic problems in philosophy of religion. Participants might consider such topics as the existence of God, the problem of divine foreknowledge and human freedom, the perfection of God, the nature of faith, and the problem of evil. The course will consider traditional theistic perspectives as well as contemporary responses. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PHI 481 - Topics in Philosophical Studies

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An intensive study of a particular philosopher, a philosophical problem, or a philosophical perspective. The content of the course varies from semester to semester. The selection of the topic is made by the professor and the prospective enrollees during the semester prior to that in which the seminar is offered. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PHI 495 - Directed Study

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course offers students an option to conduct independent research in an area of interest not available in the regular curriculum. Under the guidance of faculty supervision, students will do research on a particular philosopher, a school of thought, or specific philosophical problems, and will write a paper articulating the results of that research. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing with 12 hours of philosophy.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PHI 498 - Senior Seminar in Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    These courses are the final examination for philosophy majors. Their purpose is to draw the philosophy program together, showing each portion to be a part of a coherent whole, and to have the students demonstrate an essential understanding of the program, the discipline, and the students’ place within the discipline. The fulfillment of this twofold purpose will require that students pass a comprehensive examination, and write a publishable senior essay which they will defend in a professional type of setting. 2 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher. Philosophy major and Senior Status.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PHI 499 - Senior Seminar in Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    These courses are the final examination for philosophy majors. Their purpose is to draw the philosophy program together, showing each portion to be a part of a coherent whole, and to have the students demonstrate an essential understanding of the program, the discipline, and the students’ place within the discipline. The fulfillment of this twofold purpose will require that students pass a comprehensive examination, and write a publishable senior essay which they will defend in a professional type of setting. 2 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a graded of “C” or higher. PHI 498 .
    Course Session Cycle: FASP

Physics

  
  • PHY 190, 290, 390 or 490 - Special Topics

    Credit Hour(s): 1-4
    A course that allows the physics faculty, in response to student interest, to offer a class not normally in the schedule. 1-4 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 203 .
  
  • PHY 201 - General Physics I

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    A non-calculus-based course emphasizing general principles in physics. This course considers objects from our daily environment and focuses on their principles of operation, histories, and relationships to one another. The emphasis for PHY 201 is on mechanical and thermal objects. PHY 202  emphasizes objects involving electromagnetism, light, special materials, and nuclear energy. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 4 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): MTH 111 , MTH 112 , MTH 203  or MTH 211 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PHY 202 - General Physics II

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    A non-calculus-based course emphasizing general principles in physics. This course considers objects from our daily environment and focuses on their principles of operation, histories, and relationships to one another. The emphasis for PHY 201  is on mechanical and thermal objects. PHY 202 emphasizes objects involving electromagnetism, light, special materials, and nuclear energy. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 4 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): MTH 111  , MTH 112  , MTH 203  , or MTH 211  . PHY 201  .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PHY 203 - Fundamentals of Physics

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    Designed for science, engineering, and computer science majors. The four fundamental forces are investigated using the ideas and terminology of both differential and integral calculus. Topics covered include Newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, quantum effects, and special relativity. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 4 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): MTH 203  or MTH 221 
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PHY 204 - Fundamentals of Physics

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    Designed for science, engineering, and computer science majors. The four fundamental forces are investigated using the ideas and terminology of both differential and integral calculus. Topics covered include Newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, quantum effects, and special relativity. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 4 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): MTH 203  or MTH 221 PHY 203 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN

Political Science

  
  • PSC 101 - American National Government and Politics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to the institutions and processes of the national government, with special emphasis on the principles that influence the constitutional order of the United States. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Social Science Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSC 202 - State and Local Government

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of the institutional structures of state, city, and county governments and of the policy areas with which they deal: law enforcement, education, welfare policy, and other areas. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Social Science Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PSC 203 - International Politics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An analysis of the dynamic characteristics of international relations and an examination of the major concerns, theories, and models relevant to war and peace, economic development, environmental management, human rights, and other ethical principles of international relations. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Social Science Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSC 205 - Comparative Government

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Primarily a survey of the different countries in the world today and of their various forms of government. The course will introduce the student to basic political science concepts such as the state, the nation, social class, and the modernization process. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Social Science Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSC 207 - Special Issues in Political Science

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This elective course for underclassmen is designed to supplement regular offerings by allowing the study of political activity or specialized topics of contemporary political science research. Topics will vary from one offering of the course to the next. Students may only take the course twice, and only if it covers a different topic each time they take it. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 300 - Research Methods

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An examination of the strategies and tactics of design, observation, and measurement in political science and criminal justice research. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): SSC 251 .
  
  • PSC 302 - Political Geography

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Concentrates on the geographical nature of the state. It examines how state systems and the political behavior of nations find spatial expression or are organized on the earth. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PSC 303 - Political Theory from Socrates to Locke

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Surveys European political theory from classical times through the seventeenth century. Students will read Plato, Aristotle, Locke, and Hobbes. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 304 - Modern Ideologies

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A survey of the ideologies of liberal democracy, totalitarian democracy, and Marxism. Students will read the works of John Stuart Mill, Rousseau, Marx, and Engels. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSC 306 - Politics and Human Rights

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the relationship between politics and human rights. This course will cover violent conflicts, human rights abuses, and movements for freedom and reform in which politics is a factor. Students will study the impact of human rights issues on policymaking, explore universality versus relativism in human rights, and also deal with the human rights issues that will confront them in the future. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 308 - Media and Politics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course examines the history and function of the American news and entertainment media. Students will examine how the media influences political behavior and vice-versa. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 310 - Political Parties and Groups in the United States

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An examination of the character, functions, and roles of political parties and political interest groups. 3 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher.
  
  • PSC 324 - U.S. Constitutional Law

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to the analysis of judicial decisions: using case-based study, students will examine the Supreme Court and its decisions on selected constitutional and federal issues. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 332 - The Socio-Politics of Gender, Class, Ethnicity and Sexuality

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course examines the construction of group identity in regards to ethnicity, class, gender and sexuality and how these markers of difference lead to hierarchical power relations within modern societies. Students will read and discuss different types of political theories that focus on difference, such as: feminist theory, queer theory, multicultural theory and neo-Marxist theory. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 366 - Political Evil

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course examines the definition, theoretical underpinnings, and role of political evil in global politics. The course seeks to deconstruct the concept of political evil through an exploration of the ways in which use and procurement of power can result in mass atrocities and violence. In particular, the course takes an in-depth look at manifestations that political evil can take, such as genocide, wartime rape, poverty ethnic cleansing, and terrorism. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 384 - The President and Congress

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course will study how the President and the Congress share in the decision-making process and how each affects the operations of the other. It will also review proposals for improving this relationship. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 101 .
    Course Session Cycle: ET
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSC 399 - Citizenship and Service Learning

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is an introduction to the interplay of theory and practice relevant to students in political science. Students will be expected to acquire practical experiences resulting from a community-based civic education or service-learning project. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSC 402 - Policy Analysis

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of the concepts, procedural, and substantive approaches in the design and evaluation of public policy. Case studies provide in-depth treatment of actual policymaking. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 101 .
  
  • PSC 420 - War and Peacekeeping: U.S. National Security Policy

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Surveys the current and recent defense policies of the United States, the means by which defense policy is made, and the role of the military in American life. 3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 435 - Political Economy of Development

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    The political and economic aspects of the modernization process: what modernization is, alternative paths to modernization, the effects of ideology, political violence, and the military on the modernization process, and the impact of international trade on developing countries. 3 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher.
  
  • PSC 440 - International Law and Organization

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A comprehensive treatment of the relationship between law and international politics: particular attention is paid to international organizations, methods for the adjudication of international disputes, the enforcement of judicial decisions and treaties, and the customs and principles of law in international relations. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 203 .
  
  • PSC 491 - Topics in Political Science

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Covers in depth a topic of current interest or of special importance not covered in the regular course offerings. Topics will vary from one offering of the course to the next. Students may take the course more than once, but only if it covers a different topic each time they take it. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing.
  
  • PSC 496 - Individual or Collaborative Study

    Credit Hour(s): 1-3
    This course offers students in political science the opportunity for individual study or collaborative research on a topic selected by the student with faculty guidance. 1-3 Credit(s).

  
  • PSC 498 - Capstone in Political Science

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This will be a culminating experience in the Political Science program. Students will read, discuss, and research issues in all subfields of the discipline, including: American Politics, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and International Relations. Students will synthesize knowledge from previous Political Science classes and conduct research in a way that branches between the sub-disciplines in the field. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 101 , SSC 251 . At least one course from each of the three main elective categories in the major (Government, Comparative/IR, Theory/Methods), and at least one of the following: PSC 202 , PSC 203  or PSC 205 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSC 499 - Internship

    Credit Hour(s): 3, 6 or 9
    Both study and work internships are available. They may be used to fulfill the requirements of either an International Studies or a Political Science major. This course has an additional fee. 3, 6 or 9 Credit(s). Credits depend on number of hours worked. Service Hour(s).


Pre-Professional Health Science

  
  • PPH 110 - Introduction to One Health

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    This is an interdisciplinary course designed to introduce students to the concept of One Health which recognizes that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and the environment.

      This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).


    This course meets a lab science requirement.

  
  • PPH 190, 290, 390 or 490 - Special Topics

    Credit Hour(s): 1-4
    A course that allows the faculty, in response to student interest, to offer a class not normally in the schedule. 1-4 Credit(s).

  
  • PPH 299 - Professional Preparation

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    An experiential introduction to the variety of Health Science Professions (such as Nursing/Nurse Practitioner, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, Clinical Laboratory Science, Osteopathic Medicine, Pharmacy, Veterinary Technology, Health Science Research, Medical Technology, Nuclear Medicine, Podiatric Medicine, Chiropractic Medicine, and Medical Imaging), reviewing the interplay among the various professions in the health care system. Accomplished through presentations by health care professionals and the instructor as well as student interviews and shadowing experiences. Includes a focus on understanding medical terminology, preparing a resume and a career development plan.

    One and a half hours, one credit.

      1 Credit(s). 1.5 Contact Hour(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

     
    Course Session Cycle: FASP


Psychology

  
  • PSY 201 - General Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to the basic concepts, methods, theories, and applications of psychology. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Social Science Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSY 210 - Human Growth and Development - Lifespan

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Principles and practical applications of developmental psychology are emphasized in this study of development from conception through late adulthood and death. The following major developmental areas will be examined: physical, cognitive, and social-emotional. How environment and biology influence each of the above areas will also be explored. 

      3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  

  
  • PSY 211 - Human Growth and Development – Child and Adolescent

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Principles and practical applications of developmental psychology are emphasized in this study of children and adolescents as they grow in the following major areas: physical, cognitive, language, perceptual-motor, and social-emotional. How environment and biology influence each of the above areas will also be explored. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSY 212 - Human Growth and Development – Adulthood

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Principles and practical applications of developmental psychology are emphasized in this study of development from early adulthood through late adulthood and death. The following major developmental areas will be examined: physical, cognitive, and social-emotional. How environment and biology influence each of the above areas will also be explored. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 230 - Social Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A scientific investigation of the interaction between social stimuli and cognition and behavior of the individual. Topics will include attitude formation and change, conformity, leadership, interpersonal perceptions, persuasive communications, attribution processes, and group dynamics. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 291 - Practicum and Child Development Lab

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This course includes a 20 hours service learning component where students will work with preschool age children at local placements and apply theories and concepts in child psychology. In addition to the 20 hour practicum, students will meet with the instructor one hour per week in a laboratory session to focus their practicum experiences on important theories and concepts. 1 Credit(s). 20 Service Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Pre-/Corequisite(s): PSY 211 .
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSY 297 - Professional Seminar: Introduction to Field of Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This one-hour course (required of freshmen or sophomores) introduces the students to the expectations of a major in psychology at Ferrum College. Students will begin to map their careers through starting a portfolio, learning about and taking part in the faculty’s research interests, and participating in community service. 1 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 298 - Pre-Professional Placement

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Designed to give students an opportunity to observe principles of psychology applied in practice in real-life settings. Students will be involved in a community setting observing psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, personnel managers, behaviors analysts, parole officers, and counselors in their work. In weekly half-day sessions facilitated by faculty, students will report on their experiences and listen to other students’ experiences. 3 Credit(s). 36 hours in field, 28 hours in classroom Service Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  and permission of instructor.
    Course Session Cycle: ET
  
  • PSY 299 - Field Experience

    Credit Hour(s): 1-2
    Designed to give students an opportunity to learn and practice observation and data collecting skills and to begin to apply the theories and principles they are learning in the classroom early in their psychology careers. Students will be involved in a variety of experiences in community settings or in research projects supervised by a psychology faculty member. 1-2 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  and permission of instructor.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSY 306 - Intro to Research Methods and Statistics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to research design in the field of psychology. This course will focus on basic research design and how to select, conduct, and interpret appropriate statistical analyses. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  and MTH 107  or higher.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSY 307 - Advanced Research Methods and Statistics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is a continuation of PSY 306  in the study of research design and theory. Students use information learned in PSY 306  and other courses to design, conduct, interpret, and present original research in the field of psychology. 3 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher. PSY 306 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 314 - Learning

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Principles, theories, and issues in classical and instrumental conditioning; analysis of relationships between stimulus, response, reinforcement, punishment, and other motivational factors; some laboratory experience. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSY 320 - Abnormal Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A survey of psychological disorders; classification, diagnosis, symptomatology, etiology, treatment, and theories of psychopathology. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSY 325 - Psychopathology of Childhood

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Examines the characteristics, causes, and treatments of abnormal behavior manifested by children from birth through adolescence. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 328 - Health Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is designed to examine the interaction between psychological factors and physical health. The student will examine the role of behaviors that impact physical health (e.g., smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and exercise); the role of psychological factors on physiology (e.g., changes in immune function) and physical illness (e.g., heart disease, stroke, and ulcers); and the role of psychology in the treatment of a variety of diseases (e.g., heart disease, cancer, and arthritis). 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PSY 331 - Cognitive Development

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Focuses on how we think and how we learn to think. It examines the patterns which define human cognition and describes how those patterns change during the life span. Several theories of cognitive development are considered and compared. Practical consideration is given to how information is processed through memory, attention and intelligence, how logical thinking matures; how we learn about space, time, and causality; and how our cognitions develop in social interaction. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSY 332 - Cognitive Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course will cover all topics related to the process of thinking (such as memory, attention, language, problem solving, etc.). 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PSY 333 - Biological Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is a study of the biological basis of normal and abnormal behavior, including sensory systems, brain and behavior relationships, and underlying neurochemical processes. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSY 335 - Psychological and Educational Assessment

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Covers test construction, observation, interviewing, rating scales, personality inventories, intelligence tests, interest tests, and ability tests. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSY 340 - Personality

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Introduces the psychology of personality and examines how personality theories are developed and used, how personality tests and measurements are established and evaluated, and how research about personality is carried out. Theory, research, testing, and especially practical applications are investigated. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
 

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