2021-2022 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Courses
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Description of courses offered by the various departments
The symbols FA (fall), SP (spring), and SU (summer) indicate when each course is offered. The credit (semester hours) for each course is indicated in parentheses after the course name. Interim course descriptions are made available during the fall semester and are published online.
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Religion: Intermediate Biblical Studies Courses |
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REL 213 - Psalms and Wisdom Literature (3) FA, SP, SU. Students examine the books of Psalms, Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes. The three focuses of the course are how to read poetry, the different categories of the Psalms and their interpretation, and the role of wisdom books in the Bible. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 214 - Prophets (3) SP. The books of Old Testament prophetic literature are studied, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and selected minor prophets. Each book is considered in light of its literary characteristics and sociohistorical context with a view to explicating the text’s theological message and its contemporary relevance. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 221 - Synoptic Gospels and Acts (3) FA. This is a study of Matthew, Mark, and Luke-Acts. After dealing with introductory issues, this course examines the text and context of the books to discern their major themes. The relationship between the Synoptic Gospels and the historical Jesus is also considered. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 222 - Gospel and Letters of John (3) FA, SP. This course studies the Fourth Gospel and 1-3 John. Students consider matters of introduction, historical context, interpretation of major themes, and distinctive theological contributions. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 223 - Paul’s Letters (3) SP. A study of Paul’s letters focusing on their meaning within the context of early Christian communities. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 224 - Revelation and General Letters (3) FA. This course studies Revelation and the general letters, including Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 Peter, and Jude, in terms of their literary features, historical setting, and theological emphasis. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
Religion: Advanced Biblical Studies Courses |
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REL 309 - Studies in Biblical Theology (3) SP. An advanced-level study of selected topics in biblical theology, such as constructive theology, unity and diversity in Scripture, methods of biblical interpretation, the relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament, and more. Topics are treated in dialogue with recent discussion of these issues. Prerequisite: REL 121 or a 200-level biblical studies course. |
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REL 311 - History and Archaeology of Ancient Israel (3) A study of the history of ancient Israel from the patriarchs through Ezra in the context of recent research on this topic. This course will consider the sources for reconstructing the history of Israel, including the Old Testament, Ancient Near Eastern literary remains, and archaeological evidence, as well as appropriate methods for interpreting these sources. Prerequisite: REL 121 or an intermediate biblical studies course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 313 - Current Issues in Old Testament Studies (3) A study of selected issues and debates that are at the forefront of current Old Testament investigation (e.g., literary forms in the OT, feminist interpretation of OT literature, and the nature and scope of covenant within the OT). Prerequisite: REL 121 or an intermediate biblical studies course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 321 - Judaism in the Time of Jesus (3) SP. A study of Jewish history, literature, and thought from 400 B.C. to A.D. 100, as a background for understanding the New Testament. Literature studied includes the Apocrypha and Dead Sea Scrolls. Prerequisite: REL 121 or an intermediate biblical studies course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 323 - Studies in Christian Origins (3) FA. A historically-oriented study of selected topics on the origins of Christianity during the first century. The topic for Fall 2018: The Lord’s Supper and Other Early Christian Meals. Prerequisite: REL 121 or an intermediate biblical studies course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
Religion: Intermediate Theological Studies Courses |
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REL 230 - Revelation and Knowledge of God (3) FA, SU. This course is designed to help students explore Christian and Reformed concepts of revelation. Traditional models of general and special revelation and models of biblical inspiration and authority are explored and developed in the context of modern and post-modern concerns in philosophy and non-Christian religions. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 231 - The Triune God (3) FA. This course is designed to examine Christian concepts of God in considerable depth within the context of historic debates and modern discussions. Issues considered include the possibility and extent of human knowledge of God, evidence for God’s existence, the attributes of God, and the nature of the Trinity. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 232 - Creation and Humanity (3) FA. This course investigates Christian teaching about the creation of the world. Topics considered include the interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2, creation out of nothing, creation and evolution, the goodness of creation and the problem of evil, the image of God, the cultural mandate and the idea of stewardship, and the eclipse of creation in modern thought. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 233 - Christ and Reconciliation (3) SP. The main goal of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to examine and reflect upon historic and Reformed doctrines of the person and works of Christ in the context of contemporary analytic thought and current biblical theology. Topics include Christ as God and man in current discussion, New Testament Christology and the current debates, and Reformed Christology in the making. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 234 - Holy Spirit and Church (3) FA. This course examines the person and the work of the Holy Spirit, especially as manifested in the formation of the universal and local church, in light of biblical teachings, confessional formulations, historical theological reflections, and personal experience. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 235 - Eschatology (3) SP. Christian teachings concerning the end times and last things are studied in this course, including their biblical basis, historical formulations, and contemporary relevance. Topics covered include the return of Christ, the final judgment, the resurrection of the body, and eternal life. Millennialist and dispensationalist issues are also critically analyzed both historically and theologically. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 237 - Christian Worship (3) SP. A study of the history, theology, and practice of Christian worship. This course examines the relationship between theology and worship by considering the biblical basis for worship, the history of Christian liturgy, and contemporary worship. Examples of sermons, baptismal, and Lord’s Supper practices, hymnody, prayers, dance, art, and architecture from both traditional and contemporary worship are studied. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 243 - History of Christian Theology I (3) FA. This is a historically oriented study of Christian theology in the Patristic and Medieval periods (100-1500). Particular attention is paid to the development of key Christian doctrines such as the Trinity and the Incarnation and to questions such as the relationship between faith and reason. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 244 - History of Christian Theology II (3) FA. This is a historically oriented study of Christian theology in the Reformation and Modern periods (1500 to the present). Particular attention is paid to the development of key Christian doctrines such as justification, sanctification, and the church and to questions such as the relationship between faith and reason. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
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REL 251 - Christianity and Religious Plurality (3) SP. This course examines the relationship of Christianity to the religions of the world. An attempt is made to understand the phenomenon of religion from a theological perspective by investigating how various biblical and Christian writers have viewed Christianity’s place in the religious history of the world. Special emphasis is placed on twentieth-century attempts to confront the reality of religious pluralism. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131. |
Religion: Advanced Theological Studies |
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REL 331 - Theology: Theory and Method (3) An investigation of the nature, task, and method of the discipline of systematic theology. A review of the pre-modern history of the concept of theology serves as a prelude to the focus of the course: the status of systematic theology in the post-Enlightenment period. Issues discussed include the relationships of theology to church, academy, and society. Thinkers and approaches dealt with include Schleiermacher, Barth, Tillich, Lonergan, Pannenberg, revisionism, and post-liberalism. Prerequisite: REL 131 or an intermediate theological studies course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 332 - Theological Ethics (3) A study of Christian moral theory and its application to selected cases. This course examines how diverse understandings of God’s relationship to the creation inform how Christians think about the moral life. Ethical issues such as war, human sexuality and reproduction, death and dying, and the environment are analyzed in light of theological commitments. Prerequisite: biblical and theological foundations core or permission of the instructor. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 341 - Studies in Early and Medieval Theology: Medieval Scholastic Theology (3) SP. This course studies Medieval scholastic theology first by reading portions of Peter Lombard’s Sentences, a 12th century work that systematized Christian theology in a new way and served as the primary textbook for theological study in subsequent centuries, and then by examining how this systematic approach was developed in the work of Abelard, the Victorines, Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and Bonaventure. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 343 - Studies in Reformation Theology: Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion (3) This course reads and discusses Calvin’s Institutes in order to understand Calvin’s theology as a whole both within its historical context and with regard to its continuing significance. Prerequisite: REL 131 or an intermediate theological studies course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 345 - Studies in Contemporary Theology (3) FA. A study of selected figures, movements, and doctrinal topics in twentieth century theology. Prerequisite: biblical and theological foundations core, or permission of the instructor. |
Religion: Religion and Contemporary Culture |
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REL 261 - Christianity and Culture (3) This course is a critical survey of models by which God’s people have defined their relationship to the world, from Biblical times to the present, with a particular emphasis on the Reformed tradition. Special attention is given to the contemporary relevance of this discussion, both in terms of ways in which different models are visible in today’s world and in terms of ways that the Reformed model can be applied to present concerns. Prerequisite: REL 121 or REL 131 . Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 262 - Social Justice: From the Prophets to Jesus (3) FA. A study of biblical teachings on social justice and their relevance for the contemporary world. This course examines teachings from the Old Testament prophets and Jesus, along with other biblical texts, on the topic of God’s will for social justice, and considers how these teachings can be applied to contemporary issues such as poverty, human rights, use of the environment, war and peace, racism, and gender equity. Prerequisite: one course in biblical studies or theology. |
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REL 263 - Theology, Beauty, and the Arts (3) This course examines theological topics related to the arts. In dialogue with contemporary artists such as poets, musicians, painters, and architects, as well as with theologians past and present, the course considers the source and meaning of aesthetic experiences in relation to issues related to the arts such as the role of creativity and imagination, the nature of beauty in creation and in God, and the role of suffering and struggle in human life. Prerequisite: one course in biblical studies or theology. Not offered 2021-2022. |
Religion: Religious Studies |
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REL 255 - World Religions (3) SP. A historical investigation of the nature of religion by examining the chief theories and practices of some of the world’s major, non-Christian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Islam. Emphasis is placed on each tradition’s analysis of the basic human problem and the solution that it offers to the problem. Some attention is also paid to new, emergent religious movements and their relationship to older established traditions. Prerequisite: one religion course. |
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REL 352 - Judaism (3) A study of the major developments in Jewish history, thought, and practice from the second temple era to the present. Subjects studied will include rabbinic Judaism and its literature - the Mishnah and the Talmuds, medieval Jewish philosophy and mysticism, emancipation, Zionism, the Holocaust, and North American Judaism. Prerequisite: one religion course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 353 - Islam (3) FA. A historical and comparative study of Islam in its diverse regional and cultural settings, including the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the West. Topics will include the life and times of Prophet Muhammad, the Quran, the division between Sunni and Shia, and the formation of the traditions of Hadit and Shariah. Prerequisite: one religion course and sophomore or higher status. |
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REL 355 - Buddhism (3) FA. A historical and doctrinal study of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism, focusing on Buddhist views of the human predicament and its solution, and different teachings and Buddhists practices in various regions of Asia and the West. Other topics include the historical Buddha’s sermons, Buddhist psychology, cosmology, meditation, bodhisattvas, Pure Land and Zen. Prerequisite: one religion course and sophomore or higher status. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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REL 356 - Confucianism (3) An exploration of the teachings, history and range of Confucian thought and practice in East (China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan) and Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia). The course examines early Confucian teachings, “Han Confucianism”, “Neo-Confucianism”, and “New Confucianism” for their influence on family, society, government, politics, economics, education, and art. Prerequisite: one religion course and sophomore or higher status. Not offered 2021-2022. |
Religion: Seminars |
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REL 357 - Religion and Education Seminar (3) A seminar in perspectives, principles, and practices in the teaching of religion on the secondary level. This course addresses a wide range of pedagogical issues that confront the teacher of biblical, theological, and religious materials in secondary teaching and requires a major curriculum project. Prerequisite: EDUC 302/EDUC 303 or permission of the instructor. |
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REL 396 - Religion Seminar (3) SP. An advanced seminar for senior majors in religion and other qualified students. This course considers significant issues in biblical, theological, and religious studies and requires a major research paper. Prerequisites: senior status, and for non-majors, three electives in religion and permission of the instructor. |
Science Education Studies |
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SCES 120 - Scientific Models and Reasoning (4) FA. This course examines fundamental life, physical, and earth science models alongside the development of scientific reasoning. Major themes and topics include scientific modeling, the particulate nature of matter, scientific problem solving, the nature of science, and the relationship between science and the Christian faith. Students will also study scientific models for learning to inform and refine their study skills as they transition to college. Corequisite: IDIS 149 . Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SCES 121 - The Content and Nature of Science for Elementary Teachers (4) FA, SP. This course uses an inquiry-based approach to integrate relevant life, physical, and earth & space science content and an examination of the nature of science for elementary teachers. The course goal is to provide prospective teachers with a portion of the content knowledge, inquiry skills, and understandings of the nature of science needed to effectively teach inquiry-based science in elementary school. Major themes and topics covered include scientific models, the particulate nature of matter, the cellular nature of living things, scientific problem solving, the nature of science, and the relationship between science and the Christian faith. |
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SCES 122 - Science Content and Skills for Elementary Teachers (4) FA, SP. This course is the continuation of an inquiry-based investigation of relevant life, physical, and earth & space science content and scientific inquiry skills for elementary teachers. The course goal is to provide prospective teachers with a portion of the content knowledge and inquiry skills needed to effectively teach inquiry-based science from a Christian perspective. Major themes and topics covered include energy and systems, energy and interactions, changing earth and life forms, genetics, scientific testing and investigations, and the relationship between science and the Christian faith. Throughout the course a perspective of respect for God’s creation, Christian stewardship, and the structure of God’s creation is presented as the purpose and motivation for investigating nature and learning science. Prerequisites: SCES 120 or SCES 121 or permission of the instructor. |
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SCES 214 - Communication and Learning in the Natural Sciences (3) This course provides a systematic examination of communication and teaching strategies for natural science at the middle and high school level, including oral exposition, visual imagery, demonstrations, technology, and laboratory activities. Theoretical components include the underlying educational theories, scientific literacy, and the unifying themes and practices in science. Practical components include methodologies for assessment, lesson and unit development, laboratory safety, and student presentations and response. Prerequisite: At least three courses in natural science. |
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SCES 312 - Teaching Science in Elementary and Middle School (3) A consideration of the methods, pedagogies, and strategies associated with teaching science in elementary and middle school. Curricular resources for teaching science, including the use of technology and written materials, are also examined with consideration of the criteria for their evaluation. Additional topics include assessment, benchmarks and standards, and lesson and unit development. The relationship of Christian faith to the teaching of science in the classroom is also examined. Field experiences during normal course hours are included. This course fulfills all the same requirements as SCES 313 but is intended for integrated science minors and majors. Prerequisites: EDUC 302 and at least four science courses or permission of the instructor. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SCES 313 - Science Teaching in Elementary and Middle School (2) FA, SP. A consideration of the methods, pedagogies, and strategies associated with teaching science in elementary and middle school. Curricular resources for teaching science, including the use of technology and written materials, are also examined with consideration of the criteria for their evaluation. Additional topics include assessment, benchmarks and standards, and lesson and unit development. The relationship of Christian faith to the teaching of science in the classroom is also examined. Field experiences during normal course hours are included. Prerequisites: EDUC 302 and at least one science course. |
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SCES 314 - Integration Methods and Pedagogies for Secondary Science Teachers (2) SP, alternate years. This course explores the integration of the natural science disciplines, issues related to the nature of science, and the methods and pedagogies used in secondary science teaching. Theoretical components include a study of the cross-disciplinary nature of science and relevant educational theories impacting the role of the teacher and students in diverse science classroom settings. Practical components include methodologies for lesson and teacher development and assessment, curriculum planning, laboratory development, and classroom management. Prerequisite: SCES 214. Prior completion of EDUC 302 -EDUC 303 is recommended. |
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SCES 359 - Seminar in Secondary Teaching of Integrated Science (3) FA. A course in perspectives on, principles of, and practice in the teaching of the natural sciences at the middle school and secondary level. Included are classroom management strategies, the role of the teacher, curriculum studies, readings in science education, and self-assessment strategies. This class is taken concurrently with EDUC 346, allowing students the opportunity to reflect on science education while engaging in classroom practice. |
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SCES 390 - Independent Study (1-4) FA, SP, SU. This course provides the opportunity for a student to conduct research or independent work under the direction of a science education studies advisor. Permission to enroll must be obtained from the faculty member directing the project. The requirements for credit are determined by the supervising faculty member in collaboration with the student. |
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SCES 525 - Alternative Frameworks and Conceptual Change in the Science Classroom (3) SU. This course examines the nature of alternative frameworks and their correct or incorrect categorization as misconceptions, the process of conceptual change, and teaching strategies conducive towards promoting conceptual change in the science classroom. Course readings and discussions expose students to the intricacies and influence of students’ prior conceptions on science learning and the process of conceptual change. Application of course content occurs as students develop lesson plans that address common science misconceptions. Prerequisites: At least one science methods course at the undergraduate or graduate level. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SCES 526 - Teaching the Nature of Science (3) SU. This course presents historical, philosophical, sociological and psychological interpretations of the nature of science, its implications for scientific literacy, and methodologies related to implementation in the science classroom. Through discussions, readings, and scientific activities/investigations, students will experience and consider how teachers, textbooks, and science curricula both accurately and inaccurately portray science. Students will also modify and develop lesson plans in order to more accurately represent and teach the nature of science to students. Prerequisites: At least one science methods course at the undergraduate or graduate level. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SCES 527 - Scientific Reasoning and Teaching Inquiry (3) SU. This course investigates the role of scientific reasoning and inquiry in science, the natural development of those skills and strategies in children, and effective teaching methodologies and considerations for developing scientific reasoning and inquiry skills in students. Students explore the connections between scientific reasoning and scientific content and the transference of reasoning and critical thinking skills across the content domains of science and everyday life. Students practice their own reasoning and inquiry skills in the context of K-12 science activities and also develop lessons to foster scientific reasoning and inquiry in their own students. Prerequisites: At least one science methods course at the undergraduate or graduate level. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SCES 590 - Independent Study (1-4) FA, SP, SU. This course provides the opportunity for a student to conduct research or independent work under the direction of a science education studies advisor. Permission to enroll must be obtained from the faculty member directing the project. The requirements for credit are determined by the supervising faculty member in collaboration with the student. |
Social Work |
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SOWK 240 - Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare (3) FA, SP. Students will discover what it means to be a professional social worker in this course. With attention to the importance of diversity, history, and the experiences of at-risk populations, students will explore the range of social services and advocacy opportunities for work with individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. This will include an exploration of several areas of practice, such as poverty and inequality, housing and homelessness, family and child welfare, health and health care, disability, mental health, substance use, and criminal justice. Students will approach social issues from a strengths-based and systems-based view of persons in their environment. |
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SOWK 250 - Diversity and Inequality in the United States (3) FA, SP. This course analyzes the social meanings of our various identities (i.e., race-ethnicity, class, and gender), how these identities affect our self-concepts, and the impact of these identities upon our social and societal relationships. The primary objectives of this course are to study the social definitions of gender, race, and class, to examine the impact of these social constructs on human behavior, identity, and interactions with other persons, to develop a sociological understanding of the nature of structured inequality, and patterns of discrimination, to become familiar with social-scientific methods appropriate for the studying of diversity and inequality, and to understand the promise and challenge of biblical reconciliation for seeing ourselves as image bearers of God and for easing the social tensions associated with diversity and inequality in the United States. |
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SOWK 255 - Social Science Statistics (4) FA, SP. Students will be introduced to social statistics and statistical analysis software as a tool for social research. Throughout the course, students will learn theoretical statistical concepts as well as skills to perform data analysis. Students will analyze data and present findings to develop skills as a critical consumer of statistics, with an emphasis on developing virtuous practice in the ethical use of statistics. Corequisite: SOWK 255L. |
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SOWK 260 - Global Issues and Perspectives (3) FA, SP. Students will understand the history and practice of global social work, with a particular focus on human rights and development. Using a framework of social exclusion, students will look critically at specific social justice issues facing the global community and the field of international social work such as international migration, human trafficking, international adoption, world poverty, and public health. Students will advance their understanding of global issues and their impact on practice and policy at all levels. |
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SOWK 350 - Human Behavior and the Social Environment (3) FA, SP. This course involves a study of persons in their environment with a particular focus on human behavior and development. Persons are described as biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual beings who grow and develop throughout their lives. Theoretical frameworks enable students to assess, predict, and explain micro, meso, exo, and macro influences on human behavior and development. Prerequisites for social work majors only: BIOL 115 ; PSYC 151 or SOC 151 ; and SOWK 240 . |
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SOWK 355 - Social Research (3) FA, SP. Students develop an understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods in the social sciences. In collaboration with community partners, students conduct a research project by describing a social issue and developing research questions, conducting a literature review, selecting appropriate methods, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating results to a vested community audience. Students consider implications of social research findings for practice and policy. Through the course, students develop an awareness of the importance of social science research as a means to understand ourselves and the world around us. Prerequisite: PSYC 255 , SOC 255 , SOWK 255 , or STAT 143 . |
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SOWK 360 - Social Welfare Policy Analysis (3) FA, SP. A value-critical analysis and evaluation of social welfare policies and programs as responses to defined social problems in their historical, political, and economic contexts. Students examine the role of the direct provider of social services as a policy practitioner. Prerequisites for social work majors and minors only: PSYC 151 or SOC 151 ; SOWK 240 . |
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SOWK 370 - The Helping Interview (3) FA, SP. Through experiential work in a laboratory setting, students will learn the skills to conduct a solutions-focused helping interview. Students will conduct several types of recorded interviews, participate as role-players, and provide constructive feedback to peers. Students will also engage contextual material about ethical issues, a Christian view of relationship, and the importance of diversity and difference. Prerequisites for social work majors and minors only: PSYC 151 or SOC 151 ; and SOWK 240 . |
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SOWK 371 - Generalist Practice with Individuals (3) FA. Students will develop competencies in advanced generalist social work practice with individuals. Students develop skills in engagement, assessment, intervention, evaluation and termination within a problem-solving context. Special attention is given to integrating issues of diversity and inclusion into practice, and to competent and ethical documentation. Prerequisite: SOWK 370 . |
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SOWK 372 - Generalist Practice with Organizations and Communities (3) FA, SP. Students will develop competencies in advanced generalist practice with organizations and communities, with an emphasis on how social workers engage, assess, plan, implement, and evaluate change at the macro level. Students will examine the historical roots of social work in macro practice and the social gospel. Students will deepen their understanding of the profession’s ethical commitments to economic, social, and environmental justice, and to anti-oppressive models of trauma-informed community practice that build off individual strengths and community assets. Prerequisites for social work majors and minors only: PSYC 151 or SOC 151 ; and SOWK 240 . |
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SOWK 373 - Generalist Practice with Groups and Families (3) SP. Students will develop competencies in advanced generalist practice with groups and families. Students will learn skills to effectively lead a group, paying attention to group dynamics and necessary leadership skills. Students will practice engagement, assessment, intervention, evaluation and termination with groups and families. The course highlights the need to understand and respect groups with diverse backgrounds including (but not limited to) race, ethnicity, culture, class, gender, sexual orientation, religion, physical or mental ability, age, and national origin. Prerequisite: SOWK 370 . |
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SOWK 380 - Social Work Field Education (5, 10) FA, SP. Students will integrate academic learning into social work practice through the completion of a 400-hour social work field education experience paired with a weekly professional seminar. The professional seminar will allow students to process their field experiences. Students will apply areas of social work content to experiences in the field, including professionalism, the planned change process, social policy, human diversity, and professional ethics. Within the field setting, students will interact with client systems at the individual, family, group, community, and organizational levels, and will process these interactions with their peers in the professional seminar. Prerequisite: admission to the BSW program and field education. |
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SOWK 381 - Social Work Capstone (3) Students will integrate the content of their courses in the social work major and a Christian worldview. Students draw on core values and principles from the profession and from the Christian faith as they discuss issues associated with professional role and identity. Prerequisite for social work majors and minors only: SOWK 240 . |
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SOWK 383 - External Practicum (1) FA, SP, SU. Students work at least 60 hours in a position that must be related to their major. May be repeated multiple times for credit. No more than 12 credit hours of internship and/or practicum can be counted toward graduation requirements. International students enrolled in this course may apply for CPT authorization. Online.
Prerequisites: Not open to first-year students. Must be a major in Social Work department and have received approval from the department. Applications are initiated through the Career Center. Students find their own position, which must be approved by the Career Center and the Social Work department. |
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SOWK 390 - Independent Study (1-4) |
Sociology |
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SOC 130 - Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (3) FA. This course involves the study of cultural diversity around the globe, both historically and geographically. The course introduces the foundational elements of cultural anthropology including topics of field work, cultural relativism, ethnocentrism, participant observation, ethnography, ethnology as well as major anthropological theories. The course addresses the diversity, as well as commonality of cultural systems, both in time and space, through studying major components of cultural systems, such as kinship, religion, politics, and economics. Students are exposed to an awareness of their place within a particular cultural context, as well as their culture’s place within a global and historical context. |
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SOC 151 - Sociological Principles and Perspectives (3) FA, SP. This course is an introductory study of human social activity. The primary objectives of the course are: 1) to introduce students to origins, basic concepts, theories, and research methods of sociology, 2) to provide students with an overview of the structure, effects, promise, and limitations of our most basic social institutions, 3) to provide students with an overview of the nature of social organization, 4) to encourage students to think analytically and critically about the society in which they live, and 5) to introduce students to the traditions of Christian reflection on social life. |
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SOC 201 - Families (3) FA, alternate years. An intensive culturally comparative and historical analysis of the family as an institution. The contemporary courtship, marriage, and divorce patterns of the American family are also discussed. |
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SOC 202 - Urban Sociology (3) SP. This course is an introduction to the purposes, problems, and prospects of cities in the United States and in other parts of the world. The theoretical portion of the course will introduce basic concepts of urban ecology and urban political economy. In the applied portion, functionalism and conflict theory will be addressed to help students to understand the interaction of social factors that produce change in cities and suburbs. The transformational theology of Abraham Kuyper will be used to focus a Christian perspective. |
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SOC 203 - Sociology of Deviance (3) FA, alternate years. An analysis of deviant behavior: its causes, manifestations, prevention, and programs of control. Special attention is given to the role of social norms in generating as well as controlling deviance. Emphasis is put on ways in which social structures generate and label deviance. Implications are drawn for various institutions, particularly the school and the church. |
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SOC 231 - Intercultural Communication (3) FA. An examination of the anthropological principles relating to cross-cultural communication. This examination requires an extensive comparison of the components of cultural systems and the nature of cultural dynamics. The areas of application include government, business, Peace Corps, development, and mission work, with special emphasis on the last two. Special topics include developing an appropriate attitude regarding indigenous cultures and the management of culture shock. Also cross-listed as COMM 231 . |
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SOC 250 - Diversity and Inequality in the United States (3) FA, SP. This course analyzes the social meanings of our various identities (i.e., race-ethnicity, class, and gender), how these identities affect our self-concepts, and the impact of these identities upon our social and societal relationships. The primary objectives of this course are to study the social definitions of gender, race, and class, to examine the impact of these social constructs on human behavior, identity, and interactions with other persons, to develop a sociological understanding of the nature of structured inequality, and patterns of discrimination, to become familiar with social-scientific methods appropriate for the studying of diversity and inequality, and to understand the promise and challenge of biblical reconciliation for seeing ourselves as image bearers of God and for easing the social tensions associated with diversity and inequality in the United States. |
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SOC 255 - Social Science Statistics (4) FA, SP. Students will be introduced to social statistics and statistical analysis software as a tool for social research. Throughout the course, students will learn theoretical statistical concepts as well as skills to perform data analysis. Students will analyze data and present findings to develop skills as a critical consumer of statistics, with an emphasis on developing virtuous practice in the ethical use of statistics. Corequisite: SOC 255L. |
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SOC 265 - Ethnography and Qualitative Methods (3) FA. This course introduces students to a sociological perspective on everyday social settings by applying methods of systematic, qualitative observation. Training includes ethnographic research methodologies designed to equip students to collect and analyze data. Topics include issues of access, rapport, participant observation, field notes, ethics, interviewing, coding, and analysis. |
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SOC 301 - Gender and Sexuality in the United States (3) SP, alternate years. This course provides a sociological understanding of the concepts of gender and sexuality by focusing on how their socially constructed nature provides insight into gender and sexuality identities, roles, expression, and experiences. Students will critically and analytically consider how structural forces, cultures, and major social institutions (e.g., media, work) produce, govern, mediate, shape, and perpetuate inequalities among people based on gender and sexuality in the U.S. |
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SOC 302 - Sociology of Sport (3) SP, alternate years. A study of the social and social-psychological dynamics of sports in modern society. Areas receiving special attention are youth sports, interscholastic sports, and professional sports. Emphasis is put on describing and understanding sports participants and observers and the relationship of sport as an institution to the rest of social structure. Also offered as KIN 302. |
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SOC 303 - Criminology (3) FA, alternate years. This course uses sociological theories, frameworks, and methods to understand criminal behavior. It explores how crime is defined, enforced, and measured, as well as motivational and demographic trends in criminal behavior. Students will use this information to critically and analytically consider ethics, policy, and research implications and issues. |
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SOC 304 - Religion and Society (3) FA, alternate years. The course will focus on recognizing the social aspects of religion and thinking critically about what influences the ways in which people practice their faith and what role faith plays in shaping human behavior. Particular attention is paid to the North American experience of Christianity. This course will examine beliefs, practices, organizations, and cultures from a sociological perspective, looking as well at the historical and philosophical underpinnings of the perspective and what that means for our study of religion. |
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SOC 305 - Special Topics (3) FA, SP. Advanced study of selected topics of current interest in sociology or anthropology. Topics vary and may be substantive, theoretical, or methodological. Consult instructor for course information. This course may be repeated for credit; the topic may not be repeated for credit. |
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SOC 330 - Anthropology of Religion (3) SP, alternate years. This course takes a comparative approach to the study of religion - focusing on the universal characteristics of religious beliefs such as myth, ritual, and the sacred. Students will develop a critical understanding of the approach anthropology takes to the study of religion and will be encouraged to develop a critical understanding of that approach particularly from a faith perspective. Emphasis will also be given to grappling with the reality of personal faith in a global context of religious diversity, including the diversity in expression of Christianity. |
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SOC 333 - Corrections and Incarceration (3) SP, alternate years. This course considers corrections and incarceration systems within contemporary society. Particular foci include issues of punishment, rehabilitation, prison communities, and reintegration. The course examines both historical and contemporary theories and practices of punishment, deterrence, abolition, limiting harm, and rehabilitation (mass incarceration, death penalty, treatment of vulnerable populations, solitary confinement, effected communities) and contemporary reforms. Critical issues and problems assessed will include cultures of prisons (including social roles of prisoners and correctional officers), sentencing guidelines, philosophies of punishment, deterrence, and rehabilitation, and reintegration. |
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SOC 351 - Sociological Theory (3) FA. An assessment of sociological theory in terms of its historical development and current role in understanding human behavior. Particular attention is given to the function of theory in the research process. Direction is given to the student in the formulation of sociological hypotheses from data. Prerequisite: SOC 151 . |
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SOC 355 - Social Research (3) FA, SP. Students develop an understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods in the social sciences. In collaboration with community partners, students conduct a research project by describing a social issue and developing research questions, conducting a literature review, selecting appropriate methods, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating results to a vested community audience. Students consider implications of social research findings for practice and policy. Through the course, students develop an awareness of the importance of social science research as a means to understand ourselves and the world around us. Prerequisite: SOC 255 , SOWK 255 , PSYC 255 , or STAT 143 . |
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SOC 380 - Internship in Sociology (3) SP. Students are placed in an internship setting related to an area of sociological practice or research. Students work eight hours per week under the direction of an on-site supervisor and participate in regular seminar meetings conducted by the university instructor. Internship experiences will assist students in integrating previously acquired sociological knowledge and research skills in a particular setting. Each student will author a project that communicates learning throughout the internship. Prerequisites: Senior sociology major, completion of SOC 151 , SOC 255 , and completion of or concurrent registration in SOC 351 and SOC 355 . |
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SOC 390 - Independent Study (1-4) |
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SOC 395 - Sociology Integrative Seminar (3) SP. This course provides students with an opportunity to re-visit, at a more advanced level, the basic assumptions and concepts of the discipline of sociology, to explore the bearing of Christian faith, in particular a Reformed perspective, on the shaping of scholarly research, to consider what it means to practice sociology, and, in addition, students are challenged to synthesize, integrate, and assess what they have learned in sociology and to reflect on the role and contributions of the discipline in understanding current social issues in American culture. Prerequisites: biblical foundations I or theological foundations I, developing a Christian mind, philosophical foundations, SOC 151 , SOC 255 , and SOC 351 . |
Spanish: Core Language Courses |
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SPAN 101 - Elementary Spanish I (4) FA. An introductory course in oral and written Spanish. |
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SPAN 102 - Elementary Spanish II (4) SP. A continuation of SPAN 101 . This course fulfills the World Languages I core category. |
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SPAN 121 - Intermediate Spanish (4) FA. This course is designed for students who have had two years of Spanish in high school, but who are not sufficiently prepared for SPAN 201. Completion of this course satisfies the World Languages I core requirement. Students may continue their language learning by taking SPAN 122 and then SPAN 202. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SPAN 122 - Intermediate Spanish (3) SP. A continuation of SPAN 121, this course is designed for students who have had two years of Spanish in high school but are not sufficiently prepared for SPAN 201 . Students may continue to SPAN 201 upon completion of this course. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SPAN 150 - Accelerated Elementary Spanish (4) SU. An accelerated course in oral and written introductory Spanish. Prerequisite: 2 years of high school Spanish; or strong organization, discipline, and high motivation. Not offered 2021-2022. |
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SPAN 201 - Intermediate Spanish I (4) FA. Review of essential grammatical structures and further training in spoken and written Spanish. Cultural and literary readings. This course satisfies the World Languages II core category. Prerequisite: SPAN 102 or equivalent. |
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SPAN 202 - Intermediate Spanish II (4) SP, SU. This course is a continuation of SPAN 201 or SPAN 121 -SPAN 122 and satisfies both the World Languages II and the Global Regions and Cultures core categories. |
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SPAN 203 - Accelerated Intermediate Spanish (4) FA. This is a World Languages II course in Spanish and is preparation for courses in the Spanish major or minor. It is intended specifically for students who have successfully completed at least three years of high school Spanish. The course includes an accelerated review of essential structures and vocabulary, and also features aspects of culture, and classroom and community opportunities to use spoken Spanish. Students explore relevant biblical themes and see examples of faith practice in the Hispanic World. |
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SPAN 215 - Spanish in Yucatan (3) SU, as needed. During this course, students spend three weeks immersed in Mexican culture and the Spanish language while living with Mexican host families in Merida, Yucatan. Students attend lectures and participate in class discussions focusing on various aspects of Mexican culture such as Mexican and Mayan history, the history of Catholicism and Protestantism in Mexico, the national health and education systems, and the current political and economic context. Students also participate in excursions to Mayan ruins and attend religious and cultural events. Prerequisites: SPAN 201 and permission of the program director. |
Spanish: Language and Linguistics Courses |
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SPAN 301 - Advanced Grammar, Composition and Conversation I (3) FA, SP. This introduction and gateway to the major or minor concentration focuses on the improvement of speaking and writing skills through vocabulary acquisition and the honing of grammatical accuracy. Extensive practice in oral and written communication. A minimum grade of C (2.0) in Spanish 301 is required as a prerequisite for any concentration in Spanish. This course satisfies the World Languages II core category. Prerequisite: SPAN 202, SPAN 203 or equivalent. |
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SPAN 302 - Advanced Grammar, Composition and Conversation II (3) FA, SP. A continuation of SPAN 301 . This course satisfies both the World Languages II and the Global Regions and Cultures core categories. |
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SPAN 340 - Spanish Phonology and Dialectology (3) FA. An introduction to Spanish linguistics, concentrating on the sounds of Spanish (phonetics and phonology), with appropriate pronunciation practice and contrasts with English pronunciation. Included are units on the history of the Spanish language and the major dialects spoken today. Prerequisite: SPAN 301. |
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SPAN 341 - Spanish Syntax and Sociolinguistics (3) SP. An examination of the differences and similarities between English and Spanish morphology, syntax, and semantics, in order to improve students’ communication skills and to generate a deeper understanding of the complex nature of the human language system. Specific connections will be made to first and second language acquisition, bilingualism, Spanish/English dialects, sociolinguistics, and psycholinguistics. Prerequisite: SPAN 302. |
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