May 23, 2024  
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


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

Online Credit and Contact Hour Equivalency Guide  

 

Political Science

  
  • PSC 308 - Media and Politics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  
  • PSC 366 - Political Evil

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

  
  • PSC 384 - The President and Congress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  
  • PSC 435 - Political Economy of Development

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  
  • PSC 498 - Capstone in Political Science

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

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

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


Pre-Professional Health Science

  
  • PPH 110 - Introduction to One Health

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

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


    This course meets a lab science requirement.

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

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

  
  • PPH 299 - Professional Preparation

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

    One and a half hours, one credit.

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


    Prerequisite(s):  

     
    Course Session Cycle: FASP


Psychology

  
  • PSY 201 - General Psychology

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

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

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

      3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 297 - Professional Seminar: Introduction to Field of Psychology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • PSY 345 - Sport Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introduction to sport psychology, designed to examine psychological dimensions which influence skill acquisition and performance of an athlete in a competitive environment. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  or PSY 211 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • PSY 348 - Techniques of Counseling

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Develops critical skills in selecting and applying fundamental techniques of counseling. Discussions, demonstrations, and supervised experiences will provide opportunities for students to relate theoretical knowledge to the practical delivery of psychological services. Participants will learn to analyze client needs, to establish effective therapeutic alliances, and to formulate strategies for effective applications of psychological techniques in overcoming client problems. 3 Credit(s).

    Pre-/Corequisite(s): PSY 320 .
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • PSY 355 - Science of Sleep

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course will provide an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system as it is related to sleep, explore the psychological and neurological impact of sleep deprivation on individuals, and engage students in research as they conduct a sleep experiment on themselves. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  or BIO 111 .
    Course Session Cycle: ET
  
  • PSY 398 - Professional Seminar: Legal and Ethical Issues in Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    This two-hour course (required of second semester juniors) focuses on professional legal and ethical issues in psychology and will also introduce students to career planning within the field. 2 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 297 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSy 420 - Multicultural Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course will familiarize students with the theories associated with multiculturalism and diversity, providing the historical and sociopolitical contexts surrounding multicultural issues and mainstream psychology, analyze current events as they relate to diversity issues, encourage self and other awareness as it pertains to multicultural issues to help facilitate student cultural competence. 3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    PSY 201 - General Psychology  
    Course Session Cycle: Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Odd Years

  
  • PSY 438 - Topics in Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Designed to acquaint students with important theories, events, and people in the development of contemporary psychology not covered in detail in regular course offerings. Specific topics will vary from term to term. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201 . (Can be repeated up to 9 credits.)
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSY 450 - History and Systems of Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A systematic critical overview of the development of psychology from its origins in philosophy and natural science through contemporary systems. The course emphasizes enduring issues, leading figures, major theoretical perspectives, and critical research methods and findings which have shaped the discipline, and acquaints participants with the history of psychology as an active research specialty. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 201  and a total of 12 hours of psychology prior to enrollment.
  
  • PSY 496 - Directed Study in Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 1-2
    Students are given the opportunity to research in depth a topic of their own interest under supervision of one of the psychology faculty. All projects must be approved by formal proposal and the contract prior to the beginning of the semester in which the course is taught. 1-2 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 307  or another research course with permission of the instructor.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • PSY 498 - Professional Seminar: Capstone Experience in Psychology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This senior psychology capstone course focuses on the science of psychology and integrating material from earlier psychology courses 498 with a project that is presented in front of the psychology program faculty and majors. In addition, students will complete a psychology portfolio that provides evidence of successful completion of each of the major learning outcomes. 3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): PSY 398 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • PSY 499 - Internship

    Credit Hour(s): 3, 6 or 9
    The psychology internship is a professional field experience for selected senior psychology majors. The student must qualify by gaining approval and recommendation of a psychology faculty member. This course has an additional fee. 3, 6 or 9 Credit(s). Credits depend on number of hours worked. Service Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FASP

Recreation Leadership

  
  • REC 103 - Backpacking and Hiking

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This experiential course emphasizes basic knowledge and skill development in backpacking and hiking while emphasizing low impact techniques. In addition to regular classroom meetings, students will participate in day and weekend outings. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets Activity Liberal Arts Requirements.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • REC 104 - Rock Climbing and Rappelling

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This experiential course emphasizes basic knowledge and skill development in rock climbing and rappelling. In addition to regular classroom meetings, students will participate in day and weekend outings. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets Activity Liberal Arts Requirements.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • REC 106 - Outdoor Water Sports

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This experiential course emphasizes basic knowledge and skill development for the safe participation in outdoor water sports such as canoeing and kayaking. In addition to regular classroom meetings, students will participate in day and weekend outings. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets Activity Liberal Arts Requirements
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • REC 109 - Outdoor Recreation Sampler

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This activity course explores multiple outdoor recreation pursuits including rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, orienteering, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and fly fishing.  This introductory course emphasizes basic skills, proper use of equipment, and safety.  

      1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).


    This course meets an activity requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: Fall and Spring

  
  • REC 139 - Orienteering

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    This experiential course emphasizes basic knowledge and skill development for the safe participation in orienteering. Orienteering is the art of navigating through an area with map and compass. The course introduces orienteering with emphasis on the activity as both a sport as well as an educational tool. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets Activity Liberal Arts Requirements
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • REC 260 - Foundations of Recreation and Leisure

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of recreation and leisure philosophies, concepts, and theories. Familiarizes the student with the various leisure service agencies and looks at the history and development of recreation and leisure as a profession. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Social Science Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FASP
  
  • REC 270, 271 to 470, 471 - Recreation Practicum

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Designed to allow students to obtain practical hands-on experience working in the recreation and leisure field. Students will be required to spend a minimum of 50 hours with an approved agency for the 1 credit hour. This course is required before Recreation Internship (REC 499 ) can be taken. 1 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): REC 260 .
  
  • REC 275 - Arts, Culture & Recreation

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Strong, vibrant and creative communities celebrate the arts and diverse cultures. This course explores how recreation professionals build and improve the quality of life for citizens through cultural and arts programs, events and exhibits. 3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

  
  • REC 285 - Recreational Sports

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Recreational Sports is defined as participation in a sport activity for the sake of fun, fitness, and social benefits. This course will explore the dynamics of competitive games and sports, the motivations for participation, and the logistics required to plan, promote and host competitive events.  3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

  
  • REC 295 - Outdoor Adventure Skills e-term

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Prepare yourself for a lifetime of fun outdoor adventures. This course explores multiple outdoor recreation pursuits including rock climbing, caving, canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, swimming, orienteering, mountain biking, hiking, camping, aerial adventures, and fly fishing. The course emphasizes trip planning, basic skills, proper equipment use, and safety.  3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets experiential (e-Term) requirement
    Course Session Cycle: Spring
  
  • REC 350 - Risk Management, Safety, and Legal Issues in Recreation Administration

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A systematic investigation regarding current trends and court rulings in the area of athletics and recreation, with emphasis on common law. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • REC 360 - Recreation Leadership Theory and Philosophy

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course is a study of recreation leadership and leisure philosophies, concepts, and theories including play, liminality, freedom, wilderness, attention restoration theory, biophilia, risk, adventure, and others. 3 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • REC 362 - Adventure Education

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course utilizes an experiential approach to developing concepts and skills needed for successful delivery of adventure recreation programs. Through participation in adventure based activities, students will apply principles of group dynamics, facilitation and leadership. 3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Spring
  
  • REC 410 - Recreation Administration

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Reviews the nature and meaning of recreation administration particularly as it relates to public recreation agencies. Areas of concentration include management, organization, board and executive relations, personnel practices, fee structures, and office management. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • REC 413 - Recreation Facility Planning, Development, and Maintenance

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A systematic study of the strategies involved in planning and maintaining recreational and sports facilities. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • REC 440 - Recreation Seminar

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Designed to synthesize the recreation and leisure student’s classroom and practical experience. An emphasis will be placed on discussing current literature in recreation philosophy, new concepts and ideas, and future directions in recreation. Additional activities will include professional preparation techniques, invited speakers, and the planning of an on-campus professional activity. 3 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • REC 450 - Special Events Planning and Management

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Recreation and tourism professionals are increasingly becoming involved in major special events, conventions, fairs and exhibitions, and theatre arts productions. This course will deal with the intricacies of planning, conducting, and evaluating such events with special focus on: sponsorships; promotions; food, beverage, and lodging needs; transportation logistics; and the measuring of economic impact. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • REC 475 - Special Studies in Recreation and Leisure

    Credit Hour(s): 1-3
    An opportunity for students to become involved in research, studies of special interest, or practical experiences not available through other courses or internships. 1-3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): REC 260 .
  
  • REC 492 - Special Studies in Recreation and Leisure

    Credit Hour(s): 1-3
    An opportunity for students to become involved in research, studies of special interest, or practical experiences not available through other courses or internships. 1-3 Credit(s).

    Prerequisite(s): REC 260 .
  
  • REC 499 - Internship

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    The internship in Recreation and Leisure is a required off-campus work or volunteer experience in an approved leisure services agency. Agencies may be in the public, private, commercial, industrial, educational, church-related, therapeutic, or armed forces sectors. The internship experience must be a minimum of 400 hours and ten weeks. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 400 Service Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): REC 260 .
    Course Session Cycle: ANY

Religion

  
  • REL 111 - Literature of the Bible

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introductory survey of the entire Bible using the tools of modern scholarship to focus on the literature, history, and religious ideas of its people. The course will cover both the Old and New Testaments as continuous and interrelated scriptures within the Judeo-Christian tradition. (Students taking REL 111 will not receive credit for REL 112 - Literature of the Old Testament   or REL 113 - Literature of the New Testament  .) 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Bible-based Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: Fall & Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every
  
  • REL 112 - Literature of the Old Testament

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introductory examination of the Old Testament using tools of modern Biblical scholarship for interpreting, understanding, and appreciating the origins, development, and structure of the literature of Israel. (Students taking REL 111 - Literature of the Bible   will not receive credit for REL 112 or REL 113 - Literature of the New Testament  .) 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Bible-based Requirement.
  
  • REL 113 - Literature of the New Testament

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A critical examination of the New Testament from the viewpoint of modern Biblical scholarship. (Students taking REL 111  will not receive credit for REL 112  or 113.) 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Bible-based Requirement.
  
  • REL 151 - World Religions

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    An introductory study of the origins, beliefs, and practices of the major religions of the world. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • REL 207 - Selected Topics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of a selected religion or of issues and major themes within a single religious tradition or in a variety of religions. The topic under consideration varies from semester to semester according to periodic assessments of the needs and interests of students. Students may take only one 207 course as one of the two courses required to meet the general education requirement in religion. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
  
  • REL 210 - American Gods

    Credit Hour(s): 3
     A survey of religious movements and phenomena in the United States, from the Revolutionary War until the present. 3 Credit(s).

    This course meets religion/philosophy liberal arts core requirement.
  
  • REL 216 - Religion in Film

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Examines the ways that religion is portrayed in film and the ways that various films present a view of human existence with a view toward understanding the ways that religion impinges upon our culture. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • REL 222 - History of Christian Thought

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A survey course tracing the development of Christian thought from the New Testament era to the present day by focusing on controversies and decisive moments in the history of Christianity. Special emphasis is given to emerging themes still present in the life of the church today. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • REL 245 - Religion and Public Life

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    In this course students will explore how religion impacts public life. Attention will be given to the role of religion in politics and public policy in the United States within the constitutional framework in a pluralistic society as well as in its engagement with the world. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • REL 251 - Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of religious literacy and different religious traditions with a view to developing dispositions and skills to participate in dialogue with adherents of different faith traditions. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • REL 311 - Prophetic Literature of the Old Testament

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Beginning with the prophetic movement in Israel and the place of the prophetic literature in the canon, this course will focus on the individual books of prophecy with regard to their cultural and historical contexts, their unique literary styles, the special circumstances that motivated their authors, and the primary themes of their messages. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s): REL 111  or REL 112 .
  
  • REL 315 - Studies in the Gospel

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A detailed critical study of the four canonical gospels. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher. REL 111  or REL 113 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • REL 316 - Life and Letters of Paul

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A study of Acts and the letters of Paul. Acts is examined as a source for the life of Paul and the situation of the earliest Church, and the letters are used to trace the development of Pauline theology. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher. REL 111  or REL 113 .
    Course Session Cycle: SP
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • REL 320 - Jesus and His Afterlives

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A historical exploration of Jesus’s evolution from a Jewish teacher in Galilee to a cultural icon and object of worship around the world. 3 Credit(s).

    This course is designated Writing Intensive; a grade of “C” or higher in this course is required for this course to count toward the six-credit-hour Writing Intensive graduation requirement for Ferrum College. A student cannot earn a grade of “C” or higher in this course unless he or she earns a “C” or better on the writing assignments required by the course.
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 102  with a grade of “C” or higher. 
    Course Session Cycle: Fall
    Course Yearly Cycle: Two Year Rotation
  
  • REL 331 - Christian Theology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    A systematic study of the basic concepts of Christian theology from the historical, philosophical, and Biblical perspectives. Both the traditional formulations of Christian doctrine and the contributions of modern theologians are covered. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: ODD
  
  • REL 397, 398 or 399 - Ministry Practicum

    Credit Hour(s): 2-3
    This course is for students interested in pursuing a career in Christian ministry and is designed for them to have practical supervised experience working in a church or other public setting. It operates on the educational model of action/reflection. Prerequisites: 9 hours of REL coursework and program coordinator approval. (May earn a maximum of three credits.) 2-3 Credit(s). (One credit for every 100 hours worked.) Service Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): 9 hours of REL coursework and program coordinator approval. May earn a maximum number of three credits.
  
  • REL 401 - Biblical Archaeology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Begins with the fundamentals of archaeological methods of locating, excavating, and dating. It introduces the student to some of the significant discoveries that have enhanced Biblical interpretation, and it examines important inscriptions found in neighboring Mid-Eastern cultures and compares them with the literature of the Bible. 3 Credit(s).

    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Course Session Cycle: FA
    Course Yearly Cycle: EVEN
  
  • REL 481 or 482 - Religious Studies Capstone

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    The Religious Studies Capstone is a 1-credit designation that is added to a 300- or 400- level REL course for the purpose of identifying that course as a “Capstone” for Religious Studies majors and minors.  The Capstone designation carries with it the expectation of a thesis-level project that will be supervised by the instructor of the course and then assessed by a committee of external readers. 1 Credit(s).


    Meets Non-Bible-based Religion/Philosophy Requirement.
    Prerequisite(s):  

    ENG 102 - Composition and Research   with a grade of “C” or higher.

  
  • REL 496 - Directed Study

    Credit Hour(s): 1-3
    This course offers students an option to conduct independent research in an area of interest to them under the guidance of faculty supervision. Students will develop and refine skills needed to conduct and convey research in the discipline, be exposed to literature in the field, write a paper following a style guide and conventions used in the discipline, and orally defend their research. 1-3 Credit(s).


Topics in Science

A series of courses designed to fulfill the Liberal Arts laboratory science requirement. Each 100-level class focuses on one main theme or issue which is of immediate relevancy to students in today’s society. In order to understand these topics so that informed decisions can be made, students will learn necessary scientific principles, facts, and processes. By studying how knowledge about the subject has been developed students will learn to appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of the scientific approach. Social implications of scientific findings will be considered for the issues addressed. Class size limited to thirty students. Each 100-level class runs for half of a semester and carries two academic credits (three hours classroom, two hours laboratory).

  
  • SCI 101 - Introductory Interdisciplinary Science I

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    In this special topics course, the instructor takes an interdisciplinary approach to studying science within an applied context. Students will be introduced to basic concepts of science, scientific reasoning, and the scientific method as applied to a particular field of relevance. These courses have an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 102 - Introductory Interdisciplinary Science II

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    In this special topics course, the instructor takes an interdisciplinary approach to studying science within an applied context. Students will be introduced to basic concepts of science, scientific reasoning, and the scientific method as applied to a particular field of relevance. These courses have an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 121 - Population, Food, and Environment

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Topics include human population, food production, and the environmental aspects of feeding and sheltering the human population. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 122 - The Disintegrating Web: The Causes and Consequences of Extinction

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Introduces students to evolutionary and ecological concepts necessary to understand the causes and consequences of species extinctions and the global loss of biodiversity. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 123 - Global Ecology and Climate Change

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Introduction to several areas of science necessary to understand the changes in the earth’s climate. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 124 - Plant Structure and Function: Edible Wild Plants

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Students will study plant diversity from the perspective of edible wild plants. Emphasis will be on identification and collection. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 125 - Introduction to Natural History

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Introduction to the study of nature emphasizing the observation and identification of organisms from selected taxonomic groups. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 126 - Natural Resource Conservation

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Surveys the natural resources which are useful and necessary to humankind. Utilization and conservation of natural resources including fossil fuels, soil, air, water, forests, and wildlife will be considered. Alternate energy sources, resource management, and environmental conservation will be discussed. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 127 - Human Sexual Reproduction, Pregnancy, Development, and Birth

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    An examination of the human reproduction process including the biology/physiology, diseases, infertility, contraception, abortion, and related issues. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 128 - The Healthy Human Body

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Covers topics of human health and diet, the relationship between what you consume and your general well-being, and the control of some illnesses by prescribed diets. Specific areas of study are the four food groups, vitamins and minerals, the anatomical and physiological process of digestion, and illnesses which result from inadequate nutritional foods in the diet, or ingestion of harmful substances. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 129 - The Diseased Human Body

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Covers topics related to human disease. The causative agents of disease and their effects on organs and organ systems in the human body will be studied. Specific areas of study will be the symptoms, causative agent, epidemiological information, and treatment of a variety of diseases. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 130 - Plant Nutrition and Disease: Healthy Houseplants

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    Students will learn the basic principles of plant nutrition and control of disease problems through the growth and maintenance of healthy houseplants. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 132 - Fossils and Geologic Time

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    This course presents the different types of shelled and vertebrate fossils, their ecology, and evolutionary changes through geologic time. Students will use relative and absolute geologic history of rocks in southwest Virginia. Dinosaur classification, physiology, and extinction theories will be discussed. A four-hour Saturday field trip is required for the class. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
  
  • SCI 134 - Quarks and Atoms, Dark Matter and Black Holes

    Credit Hour(s): 2
    A non-technical inquiry into the nature of matter and the means by which we have developed our present view of matter. The course begins with a discussion of scientific inquiry and a brief history of chemistry from Democritus to Bohr. The remainder of the course introduces the quantum-mechanical view of matter. Students will consider the behavior of matter at various scales – from the familiar “human” scale where phenomena can be directly perceived by our senses to the quantum and cosmic scales where behavior can only be imagined based on indirect evidence. This course has an additional fee. 2 Credit(s). 5 Contact Hour(s).

    Meets 2 credits toward Natural Science Requirement.
 

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