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2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
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Philosophy |
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PHL 2600 - Philosophy of Education Credits: 4
‘Educate’ comes from a Latin word meaning to lead. But when we educate, what do we lead students toward? Does education develop our nature, or reform it? How has education been viewed over history? Students will engage in critical examination of both classic and contemporary texts. Special attention will be paid to three themes: democracy and education, the role of education in a pluralistic society, and the special challenges of Catholic higher education.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
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PHL 2700 - Philosophy of the Social Sciences Credits: 4
How do the various social sciences (economics, history, political science, psychology, and sociology) conceptualize and value human activity? What methods and explanatory categories are shared and at which points do the various disciplines diverge? The ethical, epistemological, and ontological assumptions in the historical development of the social sciences will be examined as a way to answer these questions.
Prerequisite(s): PHL1000
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PHL 2730 - Philosophy of Psychology Credits: 4
A critical examination of the philosophical issues related to psychology. With an emphasis on cognitive and developmental psychology, this course will include such topics as: concept formation, language acquisition, metaphors, reductionistic vs. holistic explanations, emergence, and creativity. This course will isolate and evaluate the metaphysical and epistemological assumptions made by psychologists today.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
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PHL 2850 - Philosophical Hermeneutics Credits: 4
Philosophical hermeneutics investigates the human experience of understanding in an inclusive way. The course thematizes how understanding operates in the humanities, the natural sciences, the social sciences, the technical and vocational disciplines, as well as in ordinary life. Thus the focus is on understanding as such and not as restricted to any specific content. Yet comparisons and contrasts also emerge, since diverse examples of understanding and misunderstanding from all areas dominate class discussions. Gadamer’s Truth and Method: Basic Outlines of a Philosophical Hermeneutics serves as a first guide to questions about evidence, knowledge, and truth in art, history, and literature. Other participants in the issues-driven dialogue include Schleiermacher, Dilthey, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Derrida, and Spivak.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
Fulfills: W in LS Core
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PHL 3010 - Human Rights: Theory and Practice Credits: 4
In this course, we will critically examine different theories of human rights, including non-Western approaches to human rights, and we will consider the development of international human rights law. We will examine the concept of human rights and the moral and political foundations of this idea. We will analyze the distinction between civil and political rights, socio-economic rights, and group rights, and we will consider challenges to socio-economic rights and group rights. We will also examine challenges to international human rights discourse, particularly the challenge of cultural relativism. Finally, we will focus on particular cases and issues, such as women’s rights, LGBT rights, racial non-discrimination, the rights of refugees, indigenous rights and the right to self-determination, subsistence rights (food, housing, health care), the prohibition of torture, humanitarian intervention, and environmental human rights. In addition to reading philosophical texts, we will read international human rights treaties and cases, and we will consider how the system of international human rights law operates in practice.
Fulfills: E in LS Core
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PHL 3020 - Philosophy of Law Credits: 4
This course will investigate philosophical issues that are central to the law. Topics may include the nature of law, the relationship between law and morality, the role of judges and adjudication, the nature of rights, the ideal of the rule of law, the justification of punishment, and the feminist critique of the law. Students will critically read some of the most influential philosophers in legal theory as well as important cases, judgments and statutes. Some questions that we will explore include: Why must I obey the law? Can an unjust law still be a law? Can civil disobedience be justified? To what extent, and on what grounds, should the law not infringe on an individual’s right to liberty, free speech and freedom of religion? Under what conditions should a person be held legally responsible for his or her acts?
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
Fulfills: E in LS Core
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PHL 3030 - Global Justice Credits: 4
This course examines questions of justice that arise beyond the state and between states. We will begin be considering the question of how justice between states or at the global level differs from justice within states. While cosmopolitan theorists emphasize that we have duties of justice towards all human beings, nationalists argue that we have stronger duties towards our fellow citizens. Is it morally permissible for states to act in their own national interests when this harms the people of other states? While we will primarily be considering questions of justice from a moral perspective, we will also consider current international law. Topics will include issues of justice concerning international human rights law, world poverty, refugees, climate change, military intervention, humanitarian intervention, international trade, and global labor practices.
Fulfills: E in LS Core
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PHL 3040 - Philosophy of Religion Credits: 4
Grappling with questions of ultimate religious import: Does God exist? Is there a life for us after we die? If God made the world, how come there is so much evil? Do you have to be religious to be moral (or vice versa)? Do faith and reason contradict each other? Do mystics have a special knowledge of these matters? Is there only one true religion? Students will write a term paper researching a major question and then present their own reasoned position.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
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PHL 3050 - Philosophy of Science Credits: 4
A critical examination of the methods and goals of science, as well as analysis of how political, social, religious, ethical, environmental, cultural, and technological factors have affected the development of the sciences and how they continue to have an impact on the way that science is practiced today.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
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PHL 3160 - History of Modern Philosophy Credits: 4
The course traces the empiricist and rationalist foundations of modern philosophy, as well as its relations to developments in those fields which have come to be known as natural sciences and social sciences, by close readings of the texts of Bacon, Descartes, Hobbes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 and another course in Philosophy or the permission of the professor.
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PHL 3180 - Existentialism Credits: 4
Existentialism focuses on the question about the meaning of human life, especially in connection with the reported death of God. Examining the origin and evolution of human values, existentialists such as Kierkegaard, Dostoyevsky, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Camus exercise powerful influences on contemporary ethical questions and moral problems, for example, social justice and injustice, punishment and responsibility, gender relations, imperialism and racism, the origin and evolution of values, and the roles of reason and religion in ethics. The course examines existentialist concepts, arguments, and positions, and clarifies how they arise in value disputes with essentialists, deontologists, positivists, and utilitarians. Classes encourage students to engage in rigorous but respectful discussions and to learn how to apply ethical reasoning to make moral decisions in their own lives.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
Fulfills: E in LS Core
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PHL 3210 - Philosophy of Mind Credits: 4
The central question addressed in the philosophy of mind is: how are mental states related to physical states? This course will begin by considering the historical and contemporary theories that attempt to address this problem, including dualism, behaviorism, the identity theory, eliminative materialism, functionalism and embodied cognition. The second half of the course will be devoted to a discussion of a number of contemporary issues in the philosophy of mind, including intentionality, personal identity, consciousness, qualia, language, and social cognition.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
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PHL 3650 - Aesthetics Credits: 4
We are so immersed in the various forms of artistic expression and production in our daily lives-whether visual, musical, literary, or architectural-that we seldom stop to consider what art is and why it has such power to affect us. What makes something art? Are there objective artistic standards, or are all standards merely subjective preferences? How can different art works sometimes excite us, sometimes calm us, make us laugh, and make us cry? These are some of the questions we shall ask as we study art’s power, meaning, and social and political dimensions. Depending on the interests of the instructor, the course may emphasize a particular art form, such as painting or music.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 .
Fulfills: X in LS Core
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PHL 4020 - Epistemology Credits: 4
A course on the theories of knowledge and the problems associated with knowledge currently debated in the philosophical literature. Included will be the correspondence, coherence, and pragmatic theories of truth. Other topics will include relativism, skepticism, foundationalism, reliablism, naturalized epistemology, the problem of induction, and the myth of the given.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 and another course in Philosophy or the permission of the professor.
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PHL 4030 - Metaphysics Credits: 4
“All things excellent are as difficult as they are rare” -Spinoza. Metaphysics is devoted to some of the rarest, most excellent, and certainly most difficult philosophical texts ever written. In studying writings by Aristotle, Kant, Hegel, and Heidegger (or philosophers of equivalent importance), we shall encounter radically different answers to the question “What is being?”: being is substance (and pre-eminently the highest substance, God); it is the necessary ground for human thought; it is the ultimate resolution of all contradictions inherent in thought; it is that which we approach through our questions but never reach. But even apart from their answers, the philosophers chosen reveal their greatness as thinkers by the variety of ways in which they understand and approach the question of being.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 and another course in Philosophy or the permission of the professor.
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PHL 4200 - Special Topics in Philosophy Credits: 4
This course will offer an in-depth study of a philosopher or philosophical issue.
Prerequisite(s): PHL 1000 and another course in Philosophy or the permission of the professor.
Three hours a week.
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PHL 4800 - Directed Study Credits: 4
This course allows upper class students who have acquired sufficient knowledge through a variety of courses in philosophy to pursue an intensive program of readings in a specialized area under the direction of a member of the department.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Chair and consent of the member of the department whose supervision the Directed Study will be conducted.
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Physics |
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PHY 1632 - Galileo Galilei Credits: 4
This course investigates the central role Galileo Galilei played in the development of modern science, both in terms of content and procedure. Galileo’s contributions will be put into cultural and scientific context through a comparison with the contributions of his predecessors and contemporaries; including those of Aristotle, Ptolemy, Tycho, Copernicus, and Kepler. The social, scientific and philosophical forces that Galileo faced in promoting a heliocentric model of the solar system will be considered. This examination will highlight the revolutionary ideas at the core of Galileo’s experimentally based natural philosophy, ideas which are central to the scientific revolution that continues to this day. Experiments similar to those performed by Galileo will be performed in lab (e.g. Galileo’s inclined plane experiments) and examined in order to illustrate the scientific reasoning employed by Galileo in his works. Assigned reading and subsequent discussion will be based on both primary and secondary sources.
Fulfills: Mathematics/Science distribution requirement. Fulfils a STEM requirements in LS Core.
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PHY 2201 - General Physics I Credits: 4
First semester of a one-year introduction to physics, without calculus. Topics normally include vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, work and energy, momentum, torque, statics, and circular and rotational motion.
Prerequisite(s): MTH 1000 or equivalent.
Corequisite(s): PHY2001L (concurrent enrollment)
Fulfills: Mathematics/Science distribution requirement. Q and a STEM requirement in LS Core.
Four and a half to five hours of integrated lecture, discussion, and group problem-solving a week.
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PHY 2202 - General Physics II Credits: 4
Second semester of a one-year introduction to physics, without calculus. Topics normally include oscillations, electric charge, electric fields and forces, electric potential and potential energy, electric current, DC circuits, magnetism, Faraday’s Law, and geometric optics.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2201 or PHY 2211 .
Corequisite(s): PHY2002L (concurrent enrollment)
Fulfills: Mathematics/Science distribution requirement. Q and a STEM requirement in LS Core.
Four and a half to five hours of integrated lecture, discussion, and group problem-solving a week.
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PHY 2211 - Physics I Credits: 4
First semester of a one-year calculus-based introduction to physics, for students in engineering, chemistry, biology, physics, and others. Topics normally include vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, work and energy, momentum, rotational and orbital motion, torque, angular momentum, and oscillations.
Prerequisite(s): MTH 1217 or MTH 1016 with a final grade of B or higher and Corequisite: MTH 1217
Corequisite(s): PHY2001L (concurrent enrollment)
Fulfills: Mathematics/Science distribution requirement. Q and a STEM requirement in LS Core.
Four and a half to five hours of integrated lecture, discussion, and group problem-solving a week.
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PHY 2212 - Physics II Credits: 4
Second semester of a one-year calculus-based introduction to physics, for students in engineering, chemistry, biology, physics, and others. Topics normally include electric charge, electric fields and forces, electric potential and potential energy, fields and potentials produced by continuous charge distributions, DC circuit analysis, magnetic fields and forces, Faraday’s law, motors and generators, waves, geometric optics, and (instructor option) special relativity.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2211
Corequisite(s): PHY2002L (concurrent enrollment)
Fulfills: Mathematics/Science distribution requirement. Q and a STEM requirement in LS Core.
Four and a half to five hours of integrated lecture, discussion, and group problem-solving a week.
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PHY 2213 - Introduction to Thermodynamics Credits: 2
A two-credit (one semester) introduction to thermodynamics. Topics include the ideal gas law, the molecular interpretation of temperature, the first law of thermodynamics, the second law of thermodynamics (including a quantitative treatment of entropy), heat transfer, and applications of the laws and relations of thermodynamics to thermal expansion, phase changes, calorimetry, heat engines, and refrigerators.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2211 and MTH 1218 .
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PHY 2241 - Introduction to Quantum Physics Credits: 4
A one-semester introduction to quantum physics. Topics include special relativity (at option of the instructor), the failure of classical physics in the quantum domain (as illustrated by the photoelectric effect and the double slit experiment), the dual wave-particle nature of light and matter, the wave function and its interpretation, the Schrodinger equation and its solutions for selected bound and unbound problems, and the physics of atoms, nuclei, and elementary particles.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2212 and MTH 1218 or instructor permission.
Fulfills: Q and a STEM requirement in LS Core.
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PHY 3008 - Introduction to General Relativity Credits: 4
In Einstein’s theory of general relativity, gravitation is understood as an interaction between mass and spacetime. In the elegant words of Taylor and Wheeler: “spacetime tells mass how to move; mass tells spacetime how to curve.” In this course we bypass Einstein’s field equations (the subject of advanced graduate physics courses) and go straight to the Schwarzschild metric, which makes general relativity - the best theory of gravity that has been developed to date - accessible to anyone willing to use algebra, differential calculus, and a handful of integrals. Topics include special relativity, gravitational time dilation, the role of general relativity in the Global Positioning System, the advance of the perihelion of Mercury, gravitational deflection of light, and orbital mechanics in the vicinity of a black hole.
Prerequisite(s): MTH 1218 and PHY 2212 , or permission of the instructor.
Fulfills: Mathematics/Science distribution requirement. Q and STEM requirement in LS Core.
When Offered: On sufficient demand.
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PHY 3200 - Mathematical Physics Credits: 4
Mathematical methods employed throughout science are investigated with a particular emphasis on those used in physics. Topics normally include infinite series, complex algebra, differential equations (including method of power series substitution), Fourier series, operators and matrices (including eigenvalue problems), coordinate systems, and vector calculus. Further topics may be included at the discretion of the instructor.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2241 , MTH 2219 .
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PHY 3304 - Thermal Physics Credits: 4
The laws of thermodynamics, their application to single and multi-component systems, and their underlying foundation in statistical mechanics.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2241 and MTH 2219 .
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PHY 3311 - Analytical Mechanics I Credits: 4
Newton’s laws, motion of a particle, oscillations, Newtonian gravitation, rotating and other non-inertial reference frames, motion of rigid bodies.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2241 or permission of the department, MTH 2219 .
Corequisite(s): MTH 2220 .
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PHY 3325 - Physical Optics Credits: 4
An introduction to the scalar theory of diffraction. Topics include the scalar wave equation and its applications, coherence and comparison of thermal and laser sources, interferometry and its applications to instrumentation, and linear optical systems analyses for imaging.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2241 and MTH 2219 .
When Offered: On sufficient demand.
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PHY 3345 - Electromagnetic Theory I Credits: 4
This course focuses on the development and application of the integral and differential forms of Maxwell’s equations. Specific topics typically include vector calculus, electrostatics and magnetostatics in vacuum, Laplace’s equation and related boundary value problems, electromagnetic induction, the wave equation and electromagnetic waves.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2241 , MTH 2219 and MTH 2220 .
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PHY 4412 - Quantum Mechanics I Credits: 4
Schrodinger equation, Dirac notation, infinite square well, quantum simple harmonic oscillator, angular momentum, spin, the hydrogen atom, and (time permitting) further topics chosen by the instructor.
Prerequisite(s): PHY 2241 , MTH 2219 , MTH 2220 .
Corequisite(s): MTH 3335 .
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PHY 4451 - Advanced Laboratory Credits: 4
An advanced laboratory course in which students conduct experiments similar to those that led to the development of modern physics. Several hours of largely independent laboratory work per week.
Fulfills: X in LS Core
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PHY 4803 - Special Topics in Physics Credits: variable credit
Reading, lectures, study and research on topics of importance in physics, tailored to the interests of the participating faculty and students. Offered only on demand, subject to instructor availability.
Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent.
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PHY 4806 - Directed Research Credits: variable credit
Supervised investigation of an experimental or theoretical problem of interest to the student.
Prerequisite(s): Evidence of sufficient background to undertake the problem of interest, subject to availability of a faculty advisor.
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Political Science |
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POL 1000 - Current Issues in Politics and Government Credits: 4
An introduction to the field of political science designed for non-majors and undecided majors. This course examines several current policy controversies in the political arena and explores how they can be understood using common concepts and theories in the discipline. The course will focus on current policy debates such as: What to do about low voter turnout? How should the US relate to other countries in the world? Does the legal system produce justice?
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 1100 - Politics of the United States Credits: 4
An introduction to the American political system, this course examines (1) the Constitutional basis of American politics, (2) the national institutions that are involved in decision-making and public debate (for example, the Presidency and the bureaucracy, the Federal Courts, the Congress, political parties, the media), (3) issues that Americans argue about (rights and liberties, economic benefits, foreign policy), and the processes by which those arguments are conducted and resolved (campaigns and elections, administrative action, legislation, lobbying, publicity). Required course for all Political Science Majors and Minors.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and X in LS Core.
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POL 1400 - Politics of Public Policy Credits: 4
The course content is a detailed examination of the theory and practice of public policy making in the United States. The goal of the class is to introduce students to a systematic approach for understanding the origins, formulation, implementation and impacts of government “output”. Following a review of key analytic concepts and theoretical perspectives, the political dimensions of public policy making - as well as the technical aspects of program design and evaluation- will be considered within the general framework of the “natural history” of the policing making process.
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POL 1500 - Comparative Politics Credits: 4
This course examines a variety of important issues, such as why are some countries democratic while others are not, what is a state and how did states come about, what is colonialism and how did it shape the present and future of billions of people? The course addresses these questions through an introduction to the study of comparative politics - the art and science of comparing political systems in order to raise and evaluate claims about politics. The substantive material draws on developed and developing parts of the world and covers contemporary as well as recent historical events. Required course for all Political Science Majors and Minors.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC & D requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2000 - Political Science Methods Credits: 4
This course considers a variety of approaches to political science research, but emphasizes the behavioral and quantitative approaches that are widely utilized in the study of politics. Students will develop both research skills and learn to understand and appreciate the methodology of the discipline. This course is required for the major or minor and must be taken by majors by the end of sophomore year. Students are strongly encouraged to take Basic Statistics, prior to taking this course. Prerequisites: Political Science major or minor, and POL 1100 or POL 1500. Satisfies a Social Science distribution requirement. Fulfills Q in LS Core. Four hours a week.
Prerequisite(s): Political Science major or minor and POL1100 or POL1500.
Fulfills: Q
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POL 2010 - Political Ethics Credits: 4
The course will provide a foundation in ethics, ethical theory, and their application to political institutions and the political process. The course will cover the ethical issues and implications faced by politicians, elected officials and government employees in the operation of the government and in making public policy decisions, along with those faced by individuals and entities interacting or doing business with the government. The course will examine how these ethical issues can be resolved in politics and public policy making. Through the use of select case studies, the course will explore current and past ethical issues in politics and public policy making, including torturing of terrorists, NSA spying, whistleblowing, police shootings, illegal immigration and fraud in military and other government contracts.
Fulfills: Ethics (E) requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2111 - State and Local Politics Credits: 4
The face-to-face interactions between citizens and governments in states and communities are the central focus of this course. This course will examine what various governments and officials do, how and when they do it. This course will discuss the institutions and policies of state and local governments and also consider the effect of outside factors such as federalism, grass roots participation, interest groups and political parties of governing.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2120 - Government, Business and Society Credits: 4
This course examines the relationship between the public and private sector in the Unites States from a constitutional, historical and contemporary perspective. Public policy issues such as economic and social regulation, antitrust and economic stabilization policy will be examined in detail. Students will research and orally present a case study of a contemporary government-business relationship.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2121 - Intro to Public Administration Credits: 4
This course is an examination of the structures and functions of the federal, state and local governments of the United States. Special attention will be given to the public policy process at the federal level. Students will complete in writing and present orally in class a detailed research project on a contemporary public policy issue.
Prerequisite(s): POL 1100
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2122 - Law and Society Credits: 4
An introductory course in the law that examines the theoretical and practical aspects of the law and its impact on individuals and society. The course will cover the history and sources of U.S. law, the difference between substantive, procedural, criminal, and civil law, legal reasoning, the structure and role of the federal and state court systems, the role of the litigation process, and the law of torts, contracts, landlord and tenant, personal property, consumer protection, real estate, agency, employment, and probate. Through the use of selected readings and courts cases, the course will focus on the legal, political, and social implications of these and select legal issues such as discrimination laws, drug testing, privacy laws, copyright laws and video and music downloading.
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POL 2181 - American Political Thought Credits: 4
This course will consider the American vision of government from its roots in the thought of Locke, Calvin and Montesquieu and its institutionalization by Madison, Hamilton, Jefferson and other founders, through its development by Lincoln in the Civil War period and by Roosevelt and Johnson in the New Deal and Great Society eras. The course will concentrate on analyzing the writing of these various thinkers while focusing on themes such as freedom, property, rights, constitutionalism, equality and the role of government.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2200 - Globalization Credits: 4
Formerly: POL1200
By almost any measure, we are living in the most economically internationalized era of world history. Our lives today are deeply intertwined with global social, economic, and political forces. The world as a whole is struggling with global challenges such as climate change, clash of civilizations/cultures/religions, and migration. This course explores globalization from a variety of perspectives. In this course, we will examine how competing perspectives on globalization help explain why this issue has generated much conflict and controversy. We will explore the impacts of globalization on jobs, poverty, income inequality, environment, state sovereignty, global security, and world culture, before asking what possible alternatives to globalization exist.
Fulfills: SOSC and D requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2300 - The Politics of Food Credits: 4
Formerly: POL1300
This course explores some of the many ways that what we eat is shaped and controlled by politics. In particular, the course topics center around helping students understand the ways that power dynamics and policy decisions in our political system shape what we eat and why. As a class, students will also seek to understand and evaluate the broader community and even global consequences of the politics of food. Class work and activities will involve approaching questions of food access and choice through other areas of study, such as anthropology, economics, and nutrition. The course also has a service learning requirement.
Fulfills: SOSC & X requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2510 - International Politics Credits: 4
Formerly: POL 1900
This course will assist students in developing a coherent framework for international political analysis. First, we will examine the role of states, international organizations, individuals, and corporations in world politics. Next, we will examine the main theoretic approaches and debates of international relations. Lastly, we will focus on major international issues such as nuclear weapons, terrorism, humanitarian interventions, and cyberspace, as understood through the lens of analytical frameworks and theories.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 2581 - Intro to Political Theory Credits: 4
The political ideas and theories of representative thinkers from the classical period through the Renaissance. The course includes readings from Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine, Aquinas and Machiavelli.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. H or a SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3111 - Massachusetts State and Local Government Credits: 4
An exploration of state and local government with a focus on Massachusetts state and local politics. The course will explore a variety of areas, including influences outside state and local government at the national and state level, the nature of both state and local governing institutions, and the formulation and creation of public policy at the state level, with particular focus on specific public policy areas.
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POL 3112 - Congress and The Legislative Process Credits: 4
A study of the lawmaking body in the United States Government, this course will consider the powers of the legislature, representation, membership and elections, the committee system, and the effect of inter and intra government forces on the policymaking process. The course will also focus on the legislative process with students participating in a legislative simulation.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3113 - The American Presidency Credits: 4
This course will examine the constraints which limit presidents, the opportunities that presidents can seize, and the virtues which maximize their prospects for success. The objective of this course is to broaden your understanding of how this uniquely personalized institution developed, its constitutional authority, its relationship with other branches of government and how one gets selected for this office. Finally we will assess its current strengths and weaknesses and discuss the perception and reality of presidential power and leadership.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3114 - Political Parties and Interest Groups Credits: 4
This course examines the roles played by political parties and interest groups in the American political system. This course will explore two themes: (1) how parties and interest groups manage social conflict and make it meaningful and (2) how much do political parties and interest groups give or fail to give citizens the opportunity to control those in government.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3122 - Issues in Public Policy Credits: 4
This course examines selected contemporary issues in public policy at the national level of politics in the United States. Examples of policy areas include, but are not limited to, national security, economic stabilization, immigration, and global warming. Students will complete a 20-25 page research paper on a selected topic.
Prerequisite(s): POL 1100 and POL 2121
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and X in LS Core.
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POL 3130 - Campaigns and Elections Credits: 4
The course will focus on the process by which American choose elected officials. Topics such as voting behavior, fundraising, the role of the media in campaigning and campaign ethics will be discussed.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and X in LS Core.
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POL 3131 - Polling and Public Opinion Credits: 4
This course examines what ordinary citizens think about politics, the origins of these attitudes, and what role public opinion plays in the American political system. Significant attention will be paid to the techniques of survey research by which we measure public opinion.
Prerequisite(s): POL 1100 and POL2000
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3140 - Mass Media and American Politics Credits: 4
This course examines the role of the media in shaping political opinions and behavior. The role of the media in setting political agendas and reporting and interpreting political events will be examined. The nature and influence of public opinion in a democratic society will be studied.
Cross-Listed: COM4132
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3141 - Political Communication Credits: 4
This course examines the role of political communication in the United States. The course will cover such topics as political advertising, campaign consulting and management and policymaking, polling, speech writing, negotiation, mediation and alternative dispute resolution. Students will write and present a political lobbying project on a contemporary political issue.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3150 - Criminal Law Credits: 4
This course is a survey of criminal law, including sources, classification, definitions, elements, defenses, and culpability. Specific topics include: homicide, assault and battery, domestic violence and protective orders, rape and sex offenses, theft crimes, criminal conspiracies, narcotics and alcohol offenses, white collar crimes, illegal firearms, Internet related crimes, the juvenile justice system, the role and impact of plea bargaining in the criminal justice system, victim’s rights, and punishment and sentencing. The course will also underscore the procedures associated with the judicial process, including criminal procedure and court jurisdiction on federal and state levels.
Fulfills: SOSC and X requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3151 - American Constitutional Law Credits: 4
A study of the United States Supreme Court in the American political system viewed historically and through analysis of leading cases from the court’s inception to the present.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3152 - Civil Liberties and Civil Rights Credits: 4
A study of the way in which the American political system defines and defends the civil liberties and civil rights of individuals and groups.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and D in LS Core.
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POL 3153 - Politics & Religion Credits: 4
This course evaluates the influence of religion on politics through a blend of empirical, historical, normative, and legal approaches. The course will consider topics such as: the proper role of religion in public life; the role of religion in the American founding; the relationship between free exercise and establishment in American and international law; the balance between secularism, religion, and free speech; the relationship between religious belief and political behavior; the role of religious doctrine in public justification; the effect of religion on foreign policy; the political institutions of religious and non-religious nations; the correlation between religion and conflict; just war theory; the historical development of church/state relations. The course will both engage with the theoretical work from ancient and contemporary thinkers and be informed by empirical research. We will pay special attention to the intersection of normative theory and empirical inquiry.
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POL 3160 - United States Foreign Policy Credits: 4
This course examines the ways in which American foreign policy is formulated and executed, with special attention to historical experience, established traditions, and recurrent policy debates over the proper role of the United States in the world, particularly in the face of global challenges.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3161 - Politics of Immigration and Human Movement Credits: 4
This course studies the movement of human populations through the lens of Political Science. Political Science is focused on the allocation and use of power and distribution of resources. Human population movements are clearly affected by the use of this power and access to resources. This course is structured to study those population flows, the “pushes” and “pulls” of migration, the effects of human migration on both the home and the host countries, and the academic theories that seek to explain policies on human migration and its effects (economic, cultural, political, religious, etc.), particularly in the United States.
Fulfills: SOSC and D requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3171 - Music and Politics Credits: 4
This course explores how music has been used as a means of expressing political will and as a political tool over history and throughout the world. We will study the use of protest music by those challenging political institutions as well as how political actors have treated music as a political tool. We will look at the political dynamics that gave rise to and found expression in particular genres of music and also consider questions of censorship and government control of music.
Cross-Listed: FAA3171
Fulfills: D in LS Core area requirements, AL or SOSC in LS Core course requirements.
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POL 3520 - Modern China Credits: 4
An examination of the development of modern China since 1840. Internal and foreign policies will be covered with an emphasis on the period since the 1949 revolution.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and D in LS Core.
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POL 3521 - Latin American Politics Credits: 4
An examination of the major political trends and issues in contemporary Latin American countries, including poverty, inequality, underdevelopment, human rights, elections, military intervention and social changes. Investigation and discussion of the theories which seek to explain the determinants and consequences of these developments.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and D in LS Core.
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POL 3522 - British Politics Credits: 4
An examination of the structure, dynamics and processes of government in the United Kingdom. Topics include Parliament, the executive, interest groups, policy making, constitutional change, Britain in Europe, and British foreign policy. Several cases will be used to illustrate the political process.
Fulfills: SOSC in LS Core
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POL 3523 - Japanese Politics Credits: 4
An examination of the modern political system; topics include the “consensual style” of politics, formal and informal institutions including parties and interest groups; domestic and foreign politics.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and D in LS Core.
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POL 3524 - Politics of Russia and Post-Soviet States Credits: 4
This course is an examination of politics in post-communist countries, with a focus on Russia and the other former Soviet States. We will develop an understanding of political, economic and social “transformations,” and discuss political and economic policies and reforms, the rule of law, corruption, and impediments to change. Through comparative analysis, we will consider the extent to which “democratization” and “marketization” have occurred in these states (and the broader question of the relationship between democracy and a market economy) and whether post-Soviet states are heading toward democracy, reverting back to Communism, stalled, or are moving towards something else, such as a new version of authoritarianism.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3525 - Politics of the Middle East Credits: 4
This course examines the historical events and driving forces of politics in the Middle East, including colonialism, Arab nationalism, Islamism, sectarianism, and economic development, to understand their origins and importance in the region. The course will also look in-depth at the political, economic, and social structures of individual countries in order to understand how they are grappling with the challenges of terrorism, instability, economic growth, and democratization today.
Prerequisite(s): POL1500 or faculty consent.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement and D in LS Core.
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POL 3526 - Politics of the European Union Credits: 4
This course will examine the history and theory of European integration as well as the inner workings of the contemporary EU political system. Moreover, some of the more important issues facing the EU will also be explored, such as: its planned eastern expansion, immigration policy, justice policy, and crime and terrorism policy.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3530 - Democracy, Development and Violence Credits: 4
This course examines existing theories organized in three major themes within the study of comparative politics. Topics include the functioning of political systems in established democracies, the causes and consequences of democratization, economic development, political violence and ethnic or civil war. Qualitative and quantitative approaches will be used to assess and critique the current state of knowledge in each area.
Prerequisite(s): POL 1500 .
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3531 - Politics of Developing Nations Credits: 4
This course is a general survey of political structures, processes and problems in the developing nations, with specific examples from the experiences of representative countries.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3540 - International Political Economy Credits: 4
This course examines how politics and economics come together in international relations and global problems. It explores why nations trade with each other and why they sometimes practice trade protectionism. It also probes the growing importance of regional economic blocks, such as the European Union and the North American Free Trade Agreement. Other topics include the rise and decline of American economic hegemony, the rise of Japan’s economic power, and global trade conflicts. The course also surveys economic reforms in the former Soviet Union and China as well as causes of underdevelopment in the developing world.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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POL 3541 - Cyber Security: The Intersection of Technology and Policy Credits: 4
This course examines the cyber security challenges at the intersection of technology and policy. It tackles key issues for cyberspace and international relations, such as the sovereignty of states in the cyber domain, borders and boundaries in cyberspace, cyber as a public good versus private entity, and the domestic and international agreements for governing cyberspace. The course also explores the fundamental tension between freedom and security that is driving both innovation and legislation in cyberspace, drawing upon current examples in the US and beyond.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS core.
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POL 4199 - Women and Politics Credits: 4
The course traces the changing role of women in the political system. It examine historically important social movements, differences between men and women in political attitudes and participation, the roles that women play in government, and current public policy debates related to issues of gender.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement and D in LS Core.
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POL 4599 - Issues and Cases in United States Foreign Policy Credits: 4
Using the case method of interactive learning, the course examines and compares decisions made in three different policy environments - the end of World War II, the height of the Cold War, and the post Cold War period - to stimulate discussion and analysis of the interplay of conservative and adaptive forces in United States foreign policy.
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POL 4700 - Directed Study Credits: Variable
In lieu of a formal course, qualified upper class students may substitute an intensive program of reading and writing under the direction of a member of the department.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum 3.00 GPA and permission of instructor.
Fulfills: X in LS Core
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POL 4800 - Senior Seminar: Politics and the Policy Process Credits: 4
This seminar course will integrate material and skills developed in the prior coursework of senior majors in the study of the policy process. Students will master the disciplinary tools for policy analysis and apply these tools to a series of cases studies of policy areas throughout the course. This course will culminate in a senior project in which students will analyze a policy area of their choosing in a major research paper and present that material to broader community.
Prerequisite(s): POL 1100 , POL 1500 , POL 2000(W) , and senior standing or permission of instructor.
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POL 4850 - Public Service Internship Credits: 8
Public Service placements include government agencies/offices in the legislative, executive and judicial branches at either the national, state or local levels of government. Other acceptable placements include non-profits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and in certain cases, placements could include private business organizations with appropriate governmental or public affairs activities. Students must work at least an average of 20 hours per week in the field. In addition, students will work individually and in groups with the internship Director to produce an approximate 20 page research paper on a topic related to the internship experience.
Prerequisite(s): Seniors and juniors with permission from the instructor.
Fulfills: X in LS Core
When Offered: Fall or Spring Session.
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POL 4851 - Public Service Summer Internship Credits: 4
Public Service placements include government agencies/offices in the legislative, executive and judicial branches at either the national, state or local levels of government. Other acceptable placements include non-profits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and in certain cases, placements could include private business organizations with appropriate governmental or public affairs activities. Students must work in the field at least an average of 15 hours per week for eight weeks, totaling 120 hours. In addition, students will work individually through email with the internship Director to produce a 10-12 page reflective research paper on a topic related to the internship experience.
Prerequisite(s): Permission from the instructor.
Fulfills: X in LS Core
When Offered: Summer
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POL 4852 - Public Service Fall or Spring Internship Credits: 4
Public Service placements include government agencies/offices in the legislative, executive and judicial branches at either the national, state or local levels of government. Other acceptable placements include non-profits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and in certain cases, placements could include private business organizations with appropriate governmental or public affairs activities. Students must work in the field at least an average of 10-12 hours per week for 12 weeks, for a minimum of 120 hours in the field. In addition, students will work individually with the Internship Director to produce a 10-12 page reflective research paper on a topic related to the internship experience.
Prerequisite(s): Permission from the instructor.
Fulfills: Fulfills X in LS Core.
When Offered: Fall or Spring
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PSY 1000 - Introduction to Psychology Credits: 4
Provides a general overview of the wide-ranging field of psychology. Students will explore major concepts and issues in the study of human thinking, feeling, and acting. These include biological foundations of behavior and experience, how people learn and develop, how individuals perceive the world, individual differences in behavior, social influence and social relations, the difference between normative and non-normative behavior, and approaches to therapy.
Prerequisite(s): This course is a prerequisite for all other courses in psychology.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS core.
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PSY 1100 - Psychological Inquiry and Methodology Credits: 4
Analysis of the varied ways psychologists ask and answer questions about the nature of psychological processes. Focuses on research philosophy, qualitative and quantitative methodology, as well as the development of critical reading and writing skills. This course should be taken as the first course after PSY 1000 by all majors, as it is designed to serve as a foundation for advanced courses in psychology.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
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PSY 1111 - Professional Development in Psychology Credits: 1
This course is designed to help students understand the various professions and career opportunities within psychology and related fields. Students will also gain a better understanding of the resources within the psychology department and across Merrimack College. Students will learn to communicate and interact in a professional manner in order to achieve and be successful in their career choice. This class will also focus on selecting the right courses, using on-campus resources to explore career options, build a resume, and develop an identity within psychology.
Prerequisite(s): freshman or sophomore standing.
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PSY 1112 - Professional Development in Psychology Credits: 1
This course is designed to help students understand the various professions and career opportunities within psychology and related fields. Students will also gain a better understanding of the resources within the psychology department and across Merrimack College. Students will learn to communicate and interact in a professional manner in order to achieve and be successful in their career choice. This class also focuses on off-campus opportunities to explore career options, resume building, determining their next steps after completing their degree, and developing a personal identity and professional goals using their psychology degree.
Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing.
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PSY 1320 - Psychology of Identity and Purpose Credits: 4
Application of psychological principles to the development of identity and purpose in young adulthood. Emphasizes the processes associated with healthy development in emerging adulthood and the implications of cultivating purpose in life. Topics include explorations in work, service, and purpose and their impact on well-being. Explores theory and empirical research.
Fulfills: SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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PSY 2110 - Statistical Methods in Psychology Credits: 4
Introduction to analysis of data in psychology. Emphasis on the logic, use, and interpretation of inferential statistics, including the following: correlation and regression, single-sample and two-sample t-tests, analysis of variance and chi square.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1100 , MTH 1000 or placing out of MTH 1000 on the math placement test.
Fulfills: Q in LS Core.
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PSY 2200 - Social Psychology Credits: 4
Emphasizes the centrality of social context in our psychological processes. Explores how people think about, influence and relate to each other.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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PSY 2240 - Sport Psychology Credits: 4
Examines empirical research and theory on the physical and psychological behaviors as well as the mental training components necessary to achieve peak sport performance. Explores the physical, affective, and cognitive consequences of competitive sport participation, including the psychological factors that influence sport performance, methods for enhancing sport performance, and the negative consequences of becoming an elite athlete.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
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PSY 2270 - Group Dynamics Credits: 4
Examines the psychological dynamics of groups, mainly in work settings, including understanding the cohesion and development of groups (e.g., learning, satisfaction, commitment), interpersonal processes and relationships that occur between group members as they work together (e.g., information sharing, competition and conflict, conformity) and motivational factors that influence group performance (e.g., groupthink, social facilitation). Explores past and present empirical research and theory.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
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PSY 2280 - Organizational Psychology Credits: 4
Application of psychological principles to the world of work. Emphasizes the organization as a complex social system. Applied topics include the selection, training, and evaluation of personnel. Theoretical issues include motivation, leadership, group dynamics, and organizational structure.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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PSY 2300 - Developmental Psychology Credits: 4
Introduction to theory and research related to the development of psychological processes from infancy to adulthood. Analyzes the concept of development, the nature-nurture issue and the epigenetic nature of human development. Also examines cognitive, social, and personality development in their social and cultural contexts.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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PSY 2310 - Lifespan Developmental Psychology Credits: 4
Explores the development of a typical human being from conception to death. Investigates patterns of change in biology, cognition, personality, social interaction, and relationships that take place throughout the lifespan. Considers several conceptual issues including progression and regression, health and illness, normality and abnormality. This course is designed primarily for students in the health sciences. It does not meet the requirements for a major in either Psychology or Human Development. Note that students who have already received credit for PSY 2300 cannot receive credit for PSY 2310.
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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PSY 2400 - Personality Credits: 4
Introduces classical and contemporary thinking on the concept of ‘personality’. Explores the contributions of several important theoretical frameworks in personality theory including psychoanalysis, phenomenology, trait theory, and learning.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
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PSY 2470 - The Psychology of Trauma Credits: 4
Explores the psychology of trauma and human resilience. This course explores the range of posttraumatic reactions to a variety of situations as they affect cognitive, emotional, somatic and interpersonal aspects of functioning. Students will be exposed to an overview of the etiology of and prevailing theories about PTSD. Factors contributing to the resilience to trauma as well as societal, cultural, and historical influences on views of trauma will also be discussed.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
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PSY 2520 - Mindfulness and Mindfulness Based Interventions Credits: 4
This course will give students the tools necessary to evaluate the practice of mindfulness and the research evidence regarding mindfulness based interventions. Through direct practice and a series of informal and formal written assignments, classroom discussion, presentations, and other activities, students will learn about mindfulness, contemplative practices, and the research evidence regarding the utility of interventions based on these practices. Please note: This class requires several hours of independent mindfulness and mindfulness meditation practice. Students must be willing to engage in such practice to enroll in this course.
Prerequisite(s): PSY1000
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PSY 2600 - Psychology of Happiness Credits: 4
Examination of the major issues, theories, and findings in the psychological study of positive emotions and experience (Positive Psychology). Emphasis is on the scientific investigation of such topics as the nature of happiness and well-being, psychological flow, savoring, love, optimism, resilience, character strengths and virtues, and the meaningful life.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1000 .
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PSY 3120 - Cognitive Psychology Credits: 4
Examines major empirical and theoretical work on human information processing. Focuses on basic processes including sensory storage, pattern recognition, attention and memory. Also addresses complex cognitive processes including language, problem solving and decision making. Laboratory work will demonstrate principles discussed in class.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 1100 . Prerequisite that may be taken simultaneously: PSY 2110 .
Fulfills: Social Science distribution requirement. SOSC requirement in LS Core.
This course has separate lecture and laboratory components.
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