B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

In this course, students examine how self-perception is created by personal, societal, and educational influences. Topics studied will include family, community, work, education, and other related topics. By looking at how the “self” evolves, students will be able to see themselves within a larger social context. Students will also focus on how the study of self applies to the interdisciplinary process. (Prerequisites: ENGL 1001.)

The aim of this course is to sensitize students to the role of a global society in the development of identity. Students collaborate to explore multiple perspectives derived from the social and natural sciences and the humanities. Subject matter is treated as unresolved issues to be explored rather than defined knowledge to be learned. Upon completion, students will be able to articulate how sense of self cannot rely on authority or status alone. (Prerequisites: ENGL 1001.)

In light of global urbanization, students in this course discuss the components that contribute to a meaningful life in the city and the ways in which urban communities strive to achieve it. Students collaborate to explore multiple perspectives derived from the social and natural sciences and the humanities. Upon completion, students will understand the factors that contribute to improving quality of life in an urban environment. (Prerequisites: ENGL 1001.)

How can we address contemporary challenges resulting from unforeseen market shifts, unemployment, home foreclosures, and other issues confronting community? In this course, students identify and apply the skills that are needed by individuals and groups to produce positive social change. They explore how positive social change takes place on a community level, and they examine the major obstacles to positive social change efforts. Additionally, students examine the key features of effective strategies, such as organization of people as well as economic and political resources. Using basic principles presented in the course, students develop a social change action plan through which they gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to effect positive social change in their own community.

Students in this course are introduced to the interdisciplinary studies process and its comprehensive way of understanding complex issues. Topics include definition of interdisciplinary integration, the steps in the interdisciplinary process, and the utility of interdisciplinary understanding. Upon completion, students will gain an understanding of interdisciplinary research methods and of the role that interdisciplinary thinking plays in complex problem solving and decision making. (Prerequisites: IDST 1001 or IDST 1035, IDST 1050, and IDST 2050).

Explore the changes—both real and perceived—experienced by immigrants and the members of an existing community. Students collaborate to explore multiple perspectives derived from the social and natural sciences and the humanities. Subject matter is treated as unresolved issues to be explored rather than defined knowledge to be learned. Upon completion, students will be able to identify how population movements affect individuals and communities. (Prerequisites: IDST 1001 or IDST 3035 or PSYC 1002 and PSYC 1003.)

Students deepen interdisciplinary investigation by participating in a unique experience within a community of learners. Students identify an issue to investigate, utilize interdisciplinary research skills, and interact with peers to reflect on the process. Upon completion, students will improve their skills in interdisciplinary integration and develop a broader perspective of the issue through a collaborative online experience. (Prerequisites: IDST 3050.)

Students are required to demonstrate breadth and depth of their disciplines’ content and methods to address a complex problem. Students will engage in collaboration, critiquing, individual research, and integration. Upon completion, students will use creative thinking and decision-making to draw on interdisciplinary insights. (Prerequisites: Completion of all other coursework with the exception of IDST 4081.)

"Students are required to demonstrate the breadth and depth of their disciplines’ content and methods to address a complex problem. Students will engage in collaboration, critiquing, individual research, and integration. Upon completion students will use creative thinking and decision-making to integrate insights and produce an interdisciplinary understanding." (Prerequisites: Completion of all other required coursework.)

As a supplement to students’ approved service learning placement, this seminar course provides them with interdisciplinary research skills with applications to the service of others. Activities include creating action plans for service, interviews with an audience, examination of multiple viewpoints, and reflection. Upon completion, students will integrate their experience gained from the service learning opportunity with theory to articulate multiple perspectives. (Prerequisites: ENGL 1001.)

As part of students’ approved internship placement, this seminar course is an opportunity for students to apply their disciplinary focus and interdisciplinary process in real-life settings. Activities include creating an action plan for internship, interviews with an audience, examination of multiple viewpoints, and reflection. Upon completion, students will integrate their experience gained from the internship opportunity with theory to articulate multiple perspectives. (Prerequisites: ENGL 1001.)

In conjunction with students’ study abroad experience, this course offers them the opportunity to engage with other cultures and integrate their experiences abroad with their disciplinary focus utilizing Interdisciplinary process. Activities include creating an action plan for study abroad, examination of multiple viewpoints, and reflection. Upon completion, students will integrate their experience gained from the study abroad opportunity with theory to articulate multiple perspectives. (Prerequisites: ENGL 1001.)

This course is designed to promote the ability to communicate effectively in a diverse, global environment. Topics include the relationship of culture and personal identity to communication strategies. Upon completion, students should be able to distinguish the modes and styles of communication unique to their personal culture from the cultures of others, explain the theories of cultural differences, anticipate and overcome challenges in cross-cultural situations, and apply effective cross-cultural communication skills to academic, personal, and professional settings. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The study of popular culture is way to understand the current values, beliefs, and cultural norms of modern society. In this course, students analyze the artistic and philosophical impact of contemporary media and popular culture. They explore graphic novels, film, advertising, television, cyber culture, and popular music. Demonstrating their understanding of course concepts in a final written project, students compare and contrast how different genres within a media type address specific issues. Students learn to analyze the ways in which social, political, and economic issues are evident in artistic and creative forms of expression in popular culture. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

In this course, students work toward developing a modern and inclusive understanding of indigenous peoples of the world. They explore indigenous identity; historical continuity with pre-colonial and/or pre-settler societies; indigenous identity in relation to natural resources; and indigenous languages, cultures, and beliefs. Students complete a series of weekly field note assignments in which they address topics or themes related to the exploration of their own indigenous identity. Through this course, students gain the knowledge needed to explain processes of indigenization, adaptation, and communication as phenomena of globalization. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The role and functions of managers, specifically principles and procedures for planning, organizing, leading, and controlling organizations, are addressed in this introductory course. Emphasized is the practical application of theory to reality. This course is structured so that students have the opportunity to see the interrelationships among the functions, components, and disciplines that comprise the field of management and thereby gain a comprehensive perspective as a foundation for the further study of management. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

An introduction to accounting, students in this course take a top-down approach to understanding introductory accounting documents and procedures by exploring a business’s financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. Students explore the practical uses for information that can be gleaned from these statements, individually and as a whole, through a detailed examination of the properties and characteristics of each statement. Students engage in application assignments and discussions on a variety of topics, such as regulations that should be followed when preparing financial statements as promulgated by generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Students examine the U.S. use of GAAP in comparison to the use of International Financial Reporting Standards. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1001 or 1002, and MATH 1001, 1002, 1030, or 1040.)

A continuation of Accounting I, this course builds upon students’ knowledge of accounting principles, providing a basic foundation of key managerial accounting concepts and activities. Students learn how managers use accounting information for decision making in an organization. They explore how to develop business plans for small businesses and larger manufacturing corporations as well as how to distinguish between the two types of organizations. Through a variety of assignments focusing on the coverage of cost-volume-profit analysis, performance planning, and budgeting, students have the opportunity to gain managerial decision-making skills, helping them to prepare for issues they may encounter in the field.(Prerequisites: ACCT 1003.)

Managerial accounting provides important data to the individuals responsible for directing and controlling an operation. Through this course, students learn about the essential elements of managerial accounting, including strategic, organizational, and operational decision making using financial information. They examine cost-volume-profit analysis, capital budgeting, operational budgeting, forecasting tools, and performance measurement. Students work through case studies and functional exercises for a contextual understanding of managerial accounting, including the application of quantitative methods to determine performance, planning, and control in operations.(Prerequisites: ACCT 2003.)

All organizations must collect and analyze financial information to make important decisions regarding operations, such as payments, budgeting, and investing in new business. Students in this course learn to use financial and managerial finance theory, concepts, and tools to make better financial management decisions as well as to conduct sound financial analysis. They examine the principles of finance from an applied perspective through the examination of difficult strategic and operational decisions that exist in the business environment. Students gain hands-on financial management experience as they compile financial statements, analyze and report financial results, and calculate elements of time value of money for single or multiple cash flows. (Prerequisites: ACCT 1003.)

Although businesses often use the same authoritative standards in the production and presentation of financial statements, statements may still differ in a variety of ways. Recognizing these differences requires careful analysis and a variety of techniques. This course provides students with an overview of prevailing accounting issues as well as the ethical considerations encountered in the process; it is the first in a four-course sequence and builds upon content covered in introductory accounting courses. Students explore the principles of accrual accounting and interpret the steps in the accounting cycle. They learn about financial statement presentation and disclosure requirements, and they examine the conceptual framework and measurement principles underlying financial accounting. They also assess the relationship between the reporting and auditing functions in corporations. Additionally, students evaluate differences between Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification and International Financial Reporting Standards and apply these standards to their coursework.(Prerequisites: ACCT 2003.)

The role and functions of managers, specifically principles and procedures for planning, organizing, leading, and controlling organizations, are addressed in this introductory course. Emphasized is the practical application of theory to reality. This course is structured so that students have the opportunity to see the interrelationships among the functions, components, and disciplines that comprise the field of management and thereby gain a comprehensive perspective as a foundation for the further study of management. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

An introduction to accounting, students in this course take a top-down approach to understanding introductory accounting documents and procedures by exploring a business’s financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. Students explore the practical uses for information that can be gleaned from these statements, individually and as a whole, through a detailed examination of the properties and characteristics of each statement. Students engage in application assignments and discussions on a variety of topics, such as regulations that should be followed when preparing financial statements as promulgated by generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Students examine the U.S. use of GAAP in comparison to the use of International Financial Reporting Standards. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1001 or 1002, and MATH 1001, 1002, 1030, or 1040.)

All organizations must collect and analyze financial information to make important decisions regarding operations, such as payments, budgeting, and investing in new business. Students in this course learn to use financial and managerial finance theory, concepts, and tools to make better financial management decisions as well as to conduct sound financial analysis. They examine the principles of finance from an applied perspective through the examination of difficult strategic and operational decisions that exist in the business environment. Students gain hands-on financial management experience as they compile financial statements, analyze and report financial results, and calculate elements of time value of money for single or multiple cash flows. (Prerequisites: ACCT 1003.)

Students examine basic marketing functions and the execution of successful marketing processes. They gain a fundamental understanding of marketing concepts, practices, terminology, associated technologies, and practical applications including customer relationship management. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1002.)

This course provides students with a comprehensive overview of human resource management. Students discuss the role of human resources managers as strategic partners who focus on the mission and goals of an organization. Students examine traditional topics, such as job analysis and design, recruitment, selection, performance appraisal, training, staffing, career management, compensation, benefits, health and safety, and employee relations. They also evaluate technology-based resources that aid contemporary HR processes and responsibilities. Through case studies and practical exercises, students work toward gaining the skills that enable them to develop important employment policies and procedures, such as those addressing ethical and equal opportunity issues in regard to legal and environmental regulations. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1002.)

All businesses rely on systems to process, collect, share, and store important information. The most effective way to help an organization achieve their goals is to understand how to leverage information systems and emerging technology. This course provides students the opportunity to gain skills needed to employ such leverage in the professional arena. Students examine the characteristics of information systems and their role in organizations. They also assess and discuss the impact that information systems have on the enterprise as a whole, in addition to their current architectures, enabling tools, and project cycles. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1002.)

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Students in this course are introduced to basic concepts of communication to mass audiences. Students’ primary focus is the application of communication principles and theories needed to achieve intended outcomes in crisis scenarios, public relations, public and community affairs, and when influencing thinking or opinions. Students explore mass communication theory, historical context, concepts, and applications. Through this course, students work toward gaining applied skills and sensitivity to the social impact of mass communication. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Effective interpersonal communication is a necessary tool for productivity and quality of life. Students in this course examine practical concepts and skills for enhancing communication with others. They analyze and discuss theories and models of interpersonal communication, listening, verbal communication, nonverbal communication, communication styles, affective and cognitive communication, giving and receiving feedback, and communicating interpersonally in a variety of modalities. Using insights gained from their weekly analyses, students engage in a final project through which they improve the status and satisfaction of their real-world work relationships. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)  

Now more than ever, organizations are looking for individuals who can work effectively in a group. Working on virtual teams and with diverse people is an increasing reality. Students in this course examine classic and cutting-edge research on groups and teams. They also explore and discuss stages of team development; task and maintenance functions; crisis communication; groupthink; and applications of power. Through assignments designed to provide practical application of course content, students also learn ways to develop a team’s mission, vision, and goals that translate into objectives; create team charters; build trust; handle conflict effectively; create norms for working together; identify priorities; meet facilitation skills; work in virtual teams; value diversity; and encourage creativity. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Technology provides a competitive advantage to those who utilize it most successfully. In this course, students learn that technology can be a valuable tool in optimizing communications for appeal and impact when combined with the use of media. Students explore all aspects of existing and newly-emerging social media and its relationship to business communication. They apply their knowledge of the dynamics of effective communications to sequenced components of a portfolio project using both media and technology for enhanced outcomes. Through this course, students work toward gaining the skills necessary to develop an effective social media plan.

Students in this course are introduced to communication theory and research on persuasion and negotiation. Through the application of theory, this course seeks to help students become more informed, critical senders and receivers of persuasive messages in their professional and everyday lives. Students explore the skills needed to plan, design, and deliver persuasive oral and written messages, while learning to identify and resist undesirable propaganda efforts.

It has been said that “good writing is good writing no matter the medium,” but is that really true? In this course, students examine the fundamentals of writing such as purpose, context, voice, and structure, as well as how the implementation of those fundamentals varies for print, Internet, advertising, and broadcast mediums. Students explore the best ways to use productivity software such as documents, presentations, spreadsheets, charts, and graphs to create a compelling argument. In addition, students will study and then apply the knowledge of digital communication to interpret tone and purpose. No matter the industry or career focus, writing for the digital age is an increasingly important topic of study. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Modern software design and programming requires techniques that simplify the development and maintenance process. Object-oriented programming (OPP) does just this by allowing programmers to develop objects that represent complex concepts in applications. This course introduces students to fundamental aspects of computer programming in an object-oriented language. Students learn about key concepts, including real-world objects, actions, and information in terms of data and algorithms; the translation and execution of computer programs; and the notion of an organized process of software development. They engage in hands-on practice in designing, creating, running, and testing programs and discuss related topics to share ideas and obtain different perspectives. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001 and MATH 1040.)

Businesses whose systems are lacking or experience failure are at risk of significant loss of time, money, and customer faith. Therefore, information technology (IT) is essential to the function and success of nearly all businesses. Through this course, students prepare for a role in the field of IT as they learn fundamental concepts of the IT infrastructure that underlie information systems. Students examine both hardware (computers, networks, interface devices) and software (operating systems, middleware, applications, system software) elements. They also explore key issues of capacity, performance, reliability, scale, and obsolescence for a thorough understanding of all aspects of IT infrastructure. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The Internet stitches together many disparate devices and software components into a flexible fabric that supports an enormous variety of uses. Students in this course learn about the functions of these components through a comprehensive evaluation of internet computing. They examine the design of the Internet protocol stack, the structure and function of some of the most important Internet services and applications, and Internet governance. Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through the application of concepts, such as performance, scale, and reliability, in the design of information systems. (Prerequisites: CMIS 1002.)

There are invariable challenges in the aggressive world of information technology (IT) requiring those in the field to understand and adhere to a professional code of ethics. This course introduces students to the interaction of information systems with core social concerns, including privacy, democracy, equity, security, economic progress, and intellectual property rights. Students learn to consider the social, ethical, and legal considerations inherent in the design and use of information systems. They also examine real-world and hypothetical case studies for a practical approach to applying the professional code of ethics to the field. (Prerequisites: CMIS 2001.)

All types of businesses rely on systems to manage their data and to keep that data secure, accurate, and reliable. A database is a system designed to do just this as well as to simplify the processes of data entry, search, and retrieval. Students in this course focus on the representation and manipulation of information in relational database management systems. Students learn how to map real-world concepts onto relational representations and how to manipulate them through relational queries to implement data-intensive applications. Students also learn to use a core subset of the structured query language (SQL) and how relational databases fit into a wide variety of practical information systems. (Prerequisites: CMIS 1003.)

A critical step in the development of information systems, and one in which the seeds of disaster often are sown, is the analysis and definition of system requirements, both functional and non-functional. This course provides students with an introduction to systems analysis and the responsibilities of a systems analyst. Students learn about the identification of stakeholders and techniques for requirement elicitation, representation (e.g., use cases), and life cycles (e.g., iterative methods, and maintenance). Students complete a comprehensive analysis project through which they work toward gaining hands-on experience meeting the responsibilities of a systems analyst. (Prerequisites: CMIS 3002.)

What is criminal justice and how is it delivered and sustained? This course provides students with a survey of the contemporary criminal justice system in the United States, with emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of police (law enforcement), courts (adjudication), and corrections. Students analyze the components of and major players in the criminal justice process and system and apply this content to current events and dilemmas. They overview crime and criminal law and explore how these concepts connect to criminal justice. Students also consider diversity and ethical challenges and issues as they relate to all aspects of criminal justice. Finally, students explore and discuss the juvenile justice system; consider its strengths and limitations; and examine issues, challenges, and trends related to the system.

Books, movies, and television programs about crime, particularly those that feature criminals and trials, have been popular for decades. But there’s more to criminal law than the theatrics that media often features. In this course, students examine the concepts and principles related to criminal law. They engage in discussions and assignments designed to provide practical application of content on a variety of topics, including domestic and international crimes, criminal defense, punishment, and sentencing. (Prerequisites: CRJS 1001 or PSPA 1001.)

What happens in a courtroom is both complex and fascinating, as is evidenced by the popularity of courtroom drama—real and fictional. In this course, students analyze and apply information about the components of the judicial system, including their structure, function, and processes. Students examine the professional roles within the system and learn how the system selects these figures. They learn about judicial conduct and professional standards and apply these concepts to examples of judicial behavior. Students also analyze issues related to the courts and judicial process in an increasingly diverse society and consider these in regard to future trends, such as in cases and legal claims. (Prerequisites: CRJS 1001 or PSPA 1001.)

There is a diverse assortment of issues and challenges involved in enforcing laws and protecting the public, for which a wide array of agencies share responsibility in addressing. Such agencies encompass federal, state, and local police as well as private figures, such as security officers and city inspectors. In this course, students examine the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement professionals and explore the development and evolution of law enforcement in the United States. They examine community policing models and the use of power, discretion, and deception by police. Students also engage in practical discussions and exercises to explore long-standing, contemporary, and future law enforcement issues and challenges. (Prerequisites: CRJS 1001.)

What makes a criminal unique? Criminal justice professionals confront criminal behavior in many forms. In this course, students explore theories and research that provide cognitive, behavioral, and psychological explanations of criminal behavior. Through the examination of such theories, students have the opportunity to gain the professional knowledge and sensibilities to be able to interact effectively with offenders. Students also investigate potential trends and current biological research that may change or advance the study and treatment of criminal behavior. (Prerequisites: CRJS 1001.)

People commit crimes for a variety of reasons, and these crimes vary in their impact on individual victims and society. Students in this course examine a range of views, definitions, and perspectives on crime and criminology; the nature, causes, and typologies of crime and offenders; theories that attempt to explain why individuals commit crimes; and approaches to the prevention and control of crime. Students apply theories and perspectives to crime in real life as well as to crime presented in vignettes and case studies. Students devote special attention to the debate between social-responsibilities and social-problems approaches to criminology. (Prerequisites: CRJS 1001 or PSYC 1002 or PSYC 1003.)

Learning in the 21st century can take place anytime and anywhere. This course provides an overview of the various settings in which teaching and learning occur. Education professionals explore the dynamics of traditional face-to-face, hybrid, and online instructional environments found in such areas as corporate training, higher education, K–12 education, government, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations. Applying course concepts and theories, education professionals construct a concept map of important categories and characteristics of learners. They also compare components of various learning environments and structure them for effective learning and engagement.

Education is a core value in our society. The types of educational opportunities available, the manner in which they are made available, and the ways in which people participate have changed drastically over time. In this course, education professionals explore the structure and history of educational systems in the United States, the wide variety of settings in which learning occurs, and how the role of education in society has changed over time. They also explore the multiple career paths available to them in the field of education.

Innovating and risk taking, critical thinking and problem solving, and communicating and collaborating—all of these are essential skills for the 21st century, and all are intrinsically linked to creativity. Education professionals in this course explore the abundant meanings, value, and applications of creativity as they pertain to learning and life. They consider how encouraging and celebrating creativity in themselves, their colleagues, and today’s learners can benefit society. They achieve understanding through an integrative, collaborative wiki project through which they develop a definition of creativity based on theories and philosophical viewpoints, determine how creativity develops throughout the lifespan, describe how to foster creativity in others, and develop creative techniques to solve problems and promote critical thinking.

People have different backgrounds, perspectives, and values; similarly, they have different approaches to learning. Individuals who work in educational environments and serve as agents of social change must recognize and honor these differences. Education professionals in this course examine how the need to serve people of differing social groups, cultures, and abilities offers challenges and opportunities in today’s learning environments. They reflect on their attitudes, beliefs, and biases regarding diversity and learn approaches to help ensure equitable access and meaningful learning in a variety of educational settings.

Technology is becoming a central aspect of our everyday lives and has a profound impact on the way we work, play, and learn. In this course, education professionals explore and discuss how our technology-rich world influences different generations of learners and their learning preferences. Through conceptual and application-based assignments, they also learn how to integrate technology into teaching and learning processes to meet the needs of diverse learners as well as how to harness Internet technologies to enhance the work of students by facilitating collaboration, communication, and problem solving.

Professionals in all areas of education, such as teaching, workforce training, and policy making, must be cognizant of the knowledge and skills required to adapt to 21st-century-specific change. In this course, education professionals explore the proficiencies essential to navigating the 21st-century learning landscape to position themselves for professional flexibility and success. They examine how the nature of knowledge, literacy, and learning is changing as a result of new technology. Education professionals gain a practical understanding of ways to learn and function effectively in this new, evolving environment through investigations and discussions on emerging research on learning.

Students in this course are introduced to basic concepts, problems, and research methods in the science of psychology. Students identify and examine perception, cognitive processes, learning, motivation, measurement, development, personality, abnormal behavior, and biological and social bases of behavior, including cross-cultural issues. Through this course, students have the opportunity to develop a general aptitude for the field of psychology and explain basic psychological phenomena. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Contemporary life requires the ability to relate to people who are different. Students in this course examine key concepts related to understanding life in a multicultural world. Topics include theories of culture, the role of psychology in understanding oppression, acculturation, cultural aspects of cognition, mental health, physical health, aggression, and emothion. Students are able to explain how behavior is affected by an increasingly diverse and multicultural world. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003).

It has been said that no person is an island; meaning, in part, that people are influenced by others and by the social situations in which they find themselves. This course focuses on the basic concepts and applications of social psychology, and includes such topics as attitudes, beliefs, and behavior; stereotyping; prejudice and discrimination; interpersonal relationships; group behavior; and the effect of environmental stress on behavior. Students apply principles learned in case studies and to situations in daily life. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003).

This course explores a wide range of adult, juvenile, family, and community topics of interest to students, practitioners, and administrators. Topics include the uses of psychological assessments in court, issues of criminal responsibility, criminal profiling, predicting dangerousness, jury processes and decision making, eyewitness testimony, the use of psychological knowledge in prisons, and the psychology of criminal behavior.

The basic procedures for interviewing both witnesses and suspects are provided in this course. Students have the opportunity to learn the difference between accusatory and non-accusatory interview strategies. In addition, effective behavioral observation strategies are identified. Methods for effectively recording information from interviews and observations are covered, and best practices for preparing forensic reports are presented.

This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the basic knowledge and skills required to select appropriate assessment instruments used in the field of forensic psychology with children and adults. Types of assessments include child custody evaluations, juvenile assessment, expert witness assessment, fitness to stand trial, civil commitment assessment, and substance abuse assessment.

Effective advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations is one method of improving healthcare delivery in the United States; however, effective advocacy depends on individuals who fully understand current issues, systems, existing policies, and related contexts. In this course, students engage in a systems-level analysis of the implications of healthcare policy on issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice in healthcare delivery. They examine legislative, regulatory, and financial processes relevant to the organization and provision of healthcare services. Students also assess the impact of these processes on quality and safety in the practice environment and disparities in the healthcare system. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Many factors influence the health behavior and wellness of individuals and populations. Understanding these factors helps healthcare professionals reduce health disparities and address healthcare access issues for vulnerable populations. Students in this course examine the cultural and behavioral factors and issues that influence the management and delivery of healthcare services. Students develop a framework for assessing the effect of culture and behavior in a variety of settings and situations. They identify health disparities attributable to diverse cultural and behavioral factors and discuss their implications for healthcare policy. Students also engage in application-based writing assignments to further examine the goals and objectives of addressing health disparities as well as obstacles for confronting vulnerable populations. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

This course provides students with an overview of the effects of aging on health and development across the entire human lifespan. Students examine the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive milestones in childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age, with a particular emphasis on the significant changes that occur toward the end of life. Students engage in weekly discussions on various scenarios related to socioemotional development as well as on topics such as attitudes on aging, environmental risk factors, and cognitive development. Demonstrating knowledge and synthesizing course concepts, students critically analyze a specific socioemotional issue and explain how it manifests in the various developmental stages. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The course is designed to provide an overview of public and global health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. The role of the healthcare provider in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations is discussed. Students will consider global health and their role in health promotion, protection, and maintenance, and in illness prevention of targeted populations. Principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being are explored. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The nature of health services, such as personal evaluations, clinical research, invasive surgeries, and end of life care, facilitates a host of ethical and legal considerations of which professionals must be aware. In this course, students examine the legal and ethical issues that are fundamental to the practice of healthcare and the conduct of health-related research. They explore a historical overview of events and milestones that have shaped the contemporary regulatory landscape. They also investigate and assess issues of privacy and confidentiality, informed consent, licensing, and malpractice, among others. Additionally, students consider ethical, decision-making models for assuring the quality, safety, and appropriateness of healthcare and services. They also apply ethical principles and legal considerations to real-world scenarios. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

This course is an introduction for students to the essential factors that promote or challenge the development of personal health and healthy lifestyles, including nutrition, physical fitness, stress management, mental and emotional health, sexuality and relationships, violence and injury, and substance abuse. Students examine how cultural and socioeconomic factors influence people’s perception of their health as well as their health behavior. Students review tools for assessing health and risk and have the opportunity to assess their own health and behavior using a health risk appraisal.

Students in this course are introduced to basic concepts, problems, and research methods in the science of psychology. Students identify and examine perception, cognitive processes, learning, motivation, measurement, development, personality, abnormal behavior, and biological and social bases of behavior, including cross-cultural issues. Through this course, students have the opportunity to develop a general aptitude for the field of psychology and explain basic psychological phenomena. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Human services is a field that provides rewarding as well as challenging situations as professionals support a diverse range of clients in solving problems and working through difficult situations. Students in this course explore the historical development of the human services field, human services theories, the systems approach to human services, and the role of the human service professional. They examine a range of roles and areas of specialization available to those in the profession as well as related challenges, such as ethical and diversity issues when working with people in different populations. Applying foundational concepts, students also investigate trends in the field of human services, such as medical and mental health breakthroughs and changes in client populations. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)  

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

In a world encumbered with conflict, tension, and injustice, strategies for building peace are essential. In this course, students assess theories and principles of conflict management and resolution. They examine and employ theories and applications of intergroup dynamics; principles and underlying philosophies of non-violence; and social science principles to understand conflict and promote peace. Students gain practical experience applying principles of peace building to proposing solutions for contemporary, individual, and social issues. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

This course is designed to provide students with practical skills for organizing and brokering community resources for human service clients. This will include emphasis on needs assessment for different client communities, developing plans for comprehensive care services, and utilizing formal and informal networks to maximize client access to services. Emphasis will be placed on interagency coordination as well as human service community resource building to achieve success in service delivery.

This course is designed to provide students with basic skills for directly interfacing with a diverse community of clients. This will include emphasis on active listening, paraphrasing and summarizing, and respecting clients’ cultural backgrounds in all aspects of information gathering. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the roles of different types of interviews, and the differing functions of open or closed questions for addressing distinct problems in living and areas of need that clients present.

Information technology (IT) is essential to the function and success of nearly all businesses. Businesses whose systems are lacking or experience failure are at risk of significant loss; therefore, there will always be a need for IT support and innovation. This course introduces fundamental concepts of the IT infrastructure to prepare students for a role in the field of IT. Students learn about the structure and purpose of hardware components (computers, networks, and interface devices) and software components (operating systems, middleware, applications, and system software). They examine key issues of capacity, performance, reliability, scale, and obsolescence through the evaluation of IT’s role in supporting business and individuals. Students take a practical approach to understanding how IT infrastructure can relate to personal goals as they examine the various career options within the field. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

More than ever, individuals, and businesses rely on Web surfing for variety of functions, including buying products, searching for jobs, sharing data, and entertainment. However, there are many threats involved if a network is not secure, which is why we value network administrators. This course provides students with the opportunity to gain the insight and skill of a network administrator. They examine concepts, components, and design of information and communication infrastructures. Students learn about the design of the Internet protocol stack, the structure and function of important Internet services and applications, and Internet governance. They engage in hands-on lab exercises involving configuration of settings, management of local user accounts, and the design of different types of networks. (Prerequisites: ITEC 1010.)

Did you ever wonder how many different valid passwords a computer system allows? Or perhaps you need to know how to encrypt a message so that only the intended recipient can decipher it. To answer such questions, programmers use discrete mathematics, which allows them to study sets and numbers, linear algebra, combinatorics, graphs, and probability. This course introduces students to discrete mathematics concepts and techniques used in information technology (IT). Students examine each concept in action and geared toward a specific application in IT. They engage in various application assignments focusing on elements of graph theory, coding, and probability. (Prerequisites: ITEC 1010 and MATH 1040.)

There are many important benefits from studying the different types operating systems, such as administering computers efficiently and structuring code more effectively, which lend to best practices in writing code. This course provides students with an overview of the concepts of computer operating systems, including the main functions, similarities, and differences. They explore a variety of topics, including configuration, file systems, security, administration, interfacing, multitasking, and performance analysis. Students contextualize their learning experience through hands-on activities, such as performing basic administrative tasks on Windows and Linux servers, including configuring networking parameters, administering user accounts and groups, setting access and application permissions, and locating and analyzing log files. (Prerequisites: ITEC 1010.)

Insecure security systems can cause major risks and vulnerabilities for companies. Breaches in personal employee information, financial information, or company secrets can elicit the downfall of an organization. In this course, students learn the importance of such concerns as well as key concepts of computer and information security, including technical, privacy, organizational, social, and policy issues. They examine fundamental notions of authentication, authorization, and encryption. Students learn about economic and human impact issues through the analysis of case studies of security and privacy breaches. Through discussions, applications, and group projects, students also examine risk management, informal system security methods, and corporate governance. (Prerequisites: ITEC 2030.)

Technological innovation has led us to store all types of information on the Web, such as medical records, financial data, and personal communications. We rely on this information to be safe from external attacks. Preventing such threats is a vital role in the field of information technology. This course provides an overview of network security defense techniques and countermeasures. Students sharpen their communication and analytical skills through the discussion and debate of a variety of topics, such as cryptanalysis and attacks, safety of wireless connections, intrusion detection methods, and access control. They engage in assignments designed to provide them with practical applications of content, such as the design and configuration of firewalls, traffic analysis and filtering, intrusion detection, statistical anomaly detection, and wireless security. (Prerequisites: ITEC 2020 and ITEC 3020.)

Learning in the 21st century can take place anytime and anywhere. This course provides an overview of the various settings in which teaching and learning occur. Education professionals explore the dynamics of traditional face-to-face, hybrid, and online instructional environments found in such areas as corporate training, higher education, K–12 education, government, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations. Applying course concepts and theories, education professionals construct a concept map of important categories and characteristics of learners. They also compare components of various learning environments and structure them for effective learning and engagement.

Humans are complex and the ways in which they learn are influenced by many factors. In this course, education professionals examine the major theories of how humans learn, including behaviorism, constructivism, and emerging theories based on brain research. They also explore the concepts of multiple intelligences and learning styles, as well as the influences of emotion, culture, and motivation on the learning process. Employing course concepts and principles, education professionals apply learning theories to learning experiences and analyze themselves as adult learners. They also discuss a variety of topics, such as the learning process, social learning theories and online learning, factors that affect online learning and adult learners and online learning.

Technology today facilitates and supports learning in ways never before possible. In this course, students learn how education professionals use computers, multimedia tools, and other educational technologies to differentiate the learning experience, provide access, and meet the needs of diverse learners. Students examine current trends and gain an understanding of the appropriate integration of technology and instruction. (Prerequisites: EDUC 1014.)

The instructional designer plays a key role in developing education and training programs in the public and private sectors. This course introduces students to the field of instructional design. They gain an understanding of the role of instructional designers in constructing the learning experience. Students also explore the essential job functions and career paths available in this field.

This course is a continuance of the principles learned in Instructional Design I. Students explore the basic elements of commonly used instructional design theories and models and compare the processes and procedures of these models. They gain a working knowledge of the instructional design process, including how to identify learning and performance gaps and how to design and implement instructional solutions. (Prerequisites: EIDT 2004 and EDUC 3004.)

Multimedia tools allow instructional designers to be creative and develop innovative learning environments. This course provides an introduction to the design, production, and evaluation of multimedia for instructional purposes. Students experiment with tools commonly used for the creation of multimedia elements and learn how to create basic multimedia components incorporating audio, video, and visual graphics.

The air we breathe, the water we drink, and the protection of our lives and property all are affected by the actions of local, regional, and national levels of government. This course introduces students to the workings of the American government and the roles, rights, and responsibilities of citizens. Students explore the constitutional foundations and major institutions of American government demonstrated through the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. They engage in a range of assignments, such as an analysis on Supreme Court decisions, to gain an understanding of how the American government functions, including the roles of political parties, elections, voting, and interest groups, as well as how the United States formulates and implements public policy. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The Declaration of Independence asserts that all men are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; though, society continues to argue over how to guarantee these inalienable rights. In this course, students apply the principles of the U.S. Constitution and examine several modern political controversies, such as same-sex marriage, the role of the media in society, the debate over gun control, and others in light of their relationship to larger enduring political debates. Students employ course concepts to practical applications on a variety of topics, such as critiquing argument, protecting personal privacy, ensuring equal opportunity, predicting debate outcomes, and evaluating profiling, among others.

Public administrators make daily decisions and implement programs that impact our lives in countless ways. In this course, students explore how public administrators and managers conduct the business of government, such as implementing public policy. They asses and discuss the issues and challenges these figures encounter while performing their jobs as well as future trends and potential issues they may face in the future. Students engage in short writing assignments through which they apply learning and reflect on how course concepts apply to the real world and their lives. Through this course, students come to understand the variety of jobs that public administrators perform and their crucial role in the successful operation of government.

What is public policy? Who develops it and how is it made? In this course, students explore how the government makes decisions and the impact these decisions have on people and communities. Students learn how issues become important, how groups exercise power, and how government policies are evaluated and modified. Students also examine whether the public policy process is generally fair to the majority of citizens or whether it provides unfair advantage to certain groups. This course offers students an opportunity to engage in the exploration of many of the questions and issues surrounding the development of public policy.

The Constitution is the foundation for all law in the United States. In this course, students examine how the Constitution protects individual rights, legal processes, and historical conceptions. Students use landmark Supreme Court cases to examine enduring constitutional themes, including civil rights/civil liberties, federalism, property rights, the death penalty, the rights of the accused, freedom of religion, and others. Students also explore how people attempt to use the law to promote as well as to inhibit positive social change. Through this course, students gain a fundamental understanding of constitutional law, which provides the framework for informed decision making in the professional arena.

Ethics is a key element of successful government and nonprofit leadership. Ethically, on individual and institutional levels, many things can go wrong in government and nonprofit organizations. Students in this course gain insight into causes, obstacles, and barriers to ethical leadership. They explore how successful public sector leaders build organizations that reflect strong ethical values. Students examine qualities of ethical leaders, ethical organizations, and ethical decision making. They use practical tools for achieving ethical public leadership in case studies and real-life scenarios.

Students in this course are introduced to basic concepts, problems, and research methods in the science of psychology. Students identify and examine perception, cognitive processes, learning, motivation, measurement, development, personality, abnormal behavior, and biological and social bases of behavior, including cross-cultural issues. Through this course, students have the opportunity to develop a general aptitude for the field of psychology and explain basic psychological phenomena. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

A hallmark of science and advertising is the use of numbers to convince people that a particular point of view is correct. In this course, students examine basic statistical principles. They learn how to create and present descriptive statistics; test hypothesis; and use two-group inferential tests, correlation, and the chi-squared test. Students engage in a variety of assignments designed to provide practical application of content through common data analysis tasks, such as distinguishing between the different types of frequency distributions, calculating z-scores and interpreting their meaning for research, and interpreting studies with multiple levels of a factor. The goal of the course is for students to be comfortable using statistics and to better understand the importance of statistics in research. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

Individuals are often influenced by others and by the social situations in which they find themselves. Students in this course examine the basic concepts and applications of social psychology, including attitudes, beliefs, and behavior; stereotyping; prejudice and discrimination; interpersonal relationships; group behavior; and the effect of environmental stress on behavior. They also learn how bias can sway objective conclusions as well as how ethical factors influence research in social psychology. Students apply principles and theories presented in the course to case studies and situations in daily life, including instances of stereotyping and discrimination. They also use these theories to understand strategies for helping others and reducing aggressive behavior. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

Humans experience many developmental changes throughout the lifespan, but those of greatest significance occur from conception to young adulthood. In this course, students examine key theories related to various aspects of development in infants, children, and adolescents. Students apply social, biological, and cognitive maturation processes and perspectives to better understand their own development and personal experiences. They also discuss related topics, such as cross-cultural issues, attachment and temperament, language and personality development, and puberty and sexual development. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

Psychological disorders form the basis of diagnosis in psychology. In this course, students examine a wide variety of common psychological disorders, including mood, thought, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual, personality, and dissociative disorders. Students also explore underlying causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. They examine concepts of normal and abnormal as related to psychology, methods used in the process of diagnosis, and the measurement of psychological functioning. Students also differentiate among disorders and learn limits to effective diagnosis. Applying concepts and theories learned in the course, students demonstrate their understanding through practical application and case study assignments. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

The study of the brain and how it functions has contributed significantly to the understanding of how people react and adapt to their environments. In this course, students examine basic brain physiology and learn how the brain functions to control behavior. Students explore specific applications of brain structure to memory and attention, sensation and perception, development, socialization, motivation and emotion, and socialization. They apply concepts and theories about the brain to psychological health and well-being. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

This course offers an introduction to the principles and practice of safeguarding and improving the health of populations. Students examine the philosophies, goals, history, and organization of the field of public health. They discuss the role of the government in improving the health and well-being of its citizens. The course explores key concepts of public health, including morbidity and mortality, infectious and chronic disease, social determinants of health, and health disparities within populations. (Prerequisites: COMM 1000).

Many factors influence the health behavior and wellness of individuals and populations. Understanding these factors helps healthcare professionals reduce health disparities and address healthcare access issues for vulnerable populations. Students in this course examine the cultural and behavioral factors and issues that influence the management and delivery of healthcare services. Students develop a framework for assessing the effect of culture and behavior in a variety of settings and situations. They identify health disparities attributable to diverse cultural and behavioral factors and discuss their implications for healthcare policy. Students also engage in application-based writing assignments to further examine the goals and objectives of addressing health disparities as well as obstacles for confronting vulnerable populations. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

Human interaction has a major influence on the natural world, resulting in outcomes that can impact human and environmental health. In this course, students learn the principles of environmental health and examine the short- and long-term effects of environmental hazards on human health. Students consider their own interactions with natural and human-made environments to assess the impact of chemical, physical, biological, and social elements on their health. They also explore the potential impact of climate change on population health, emerging global health threats related to the environment, and environmental factors involved in the etiology and transmission of both communicable and non-infectious disease. Using concepts and methods presented in the course, students conduct an environmental risk assessment to determine the health of home environments. They also conduct a written analysis to report their findings, identifying actions to improve inspection results. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001).

This course focuses on the principles governing the study and practice of epidemiology. Consideration is given to the various methods available to health professionals for selecting and measuring factors of interest, describing their distribution, detecting associations, and identifying populations at risk. The features, advantages, and limitations of common epidemiologic research designs are addressed. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001 and MATH 1002/1030 or STAT 3001.)

Through this course, students explore the historical milestones concerning human disease and prevention, morbidity and mortality rates associated with various diseases, and the biological effects of infectious and chronic disease on the human body. Students discuss the general characteristics of disease transmission, symptoms, treatment, prevention, and control among various populations. They also examine psychosocial and behavioral factors that influence human disease. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001).

Effective delivery of health education and communication often leads to improved health literacy and positive changes in behavior among populations. This course provides students with an overview of health education and its role in improving the health of individuals as well as populations. Students review the philosophical, historical, ethical, and theoretical foundations of health education as well as effective principles for the delivery of healthcare. They also examine the primary responsibilities and competencies of health educators, trends in the field, professional organizations, national certification, and the code of ethics. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001).