May 19, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 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  

 

Music

  
  • MUS 107 - Music Theory II

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

      2 Credit(s).


    Course Session Cycle: Spring

  
  • MUS 108 - Aural Skills Lab II

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

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 106  
    Course Session Cycle: Spring
  
  • MUS 111 - Concert Choir

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

    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • MUS 113 - Orchestra Appalachia

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Orchestra Appalachia is a performance ensemble, providing opportunities for singers and instrumentalists to explore Appalachian music styles, especially Old-Time, Bluegrass, and Gospel, and including related genres, such as folk, country, and blues. Related dance styles will also be performed. Instrumentation of the ensemble includes fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass, mandolin, and other instruments at the discretion of the instructor. This course may be repeated up to eight times for credit. 1 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Fall and Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • MUS 117 - Chorale

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

    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • MUS 119 - Band

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

    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • MUS 121 - Handbell Ensemble

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

    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • MUS 123 - Jazz Combo

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

  
  • MUS 127 - Classical Ensemble

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

  
  • MUS 135 - Mountain Dulcimer

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    A workshop-style course for the study and performance of the mountain dulcimer. Students will develop an appreciation of the instrument via the study of representative performances and develop a personal musical practice. Through the practical application of music theory, aural skills, and notation, musicians of all levels will enhance their studies. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Odd Years
  
  • MUS 136 - Intro to Appalachian Strings

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    A workshop-style course for the study and performance of acoustic stringed instruments in a class setting. This course is appropriate for musicians of all levels, from beginner/intermediate players to experienced musicians who are interested in learning to play a new instrument. Instruction in fiddle, banjo, mandolin, guitar, and upright bass will be offered. Each student will select one instrument of study for the duration of the course. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Fall
    Course Yearly Cycle: Odd Years
  
  • MUS 137 - Appalachian Vocal Styles

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    A workshop-style course for vocalists of all levels wherein participants will study representative vocal performances and develop a personal vocal practice to explore and perform Appalachian vocal styles. Topics may include ballad singing, bluegrass and gospel harmonies, blues, sacred harp, and others according to the interests of the student. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years
  
  • MUS 138 - Appalachian Social Dance

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    A workshop-style course for the study and practice of all styles of Appalachian social dance, including reels, square dance, contra dance, play-parties, two-step, and waltz. Students will participate as dancers and callers, and will learn and develop a personal style. Basic percussive dance steps will also be taught. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years
  
  • MUS 143, 144 - Piano Class

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

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 151, 152 to 451, 452 - Private Music Lessons

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

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 153 - Voice Class

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

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 154 - Voice Class

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

    Course Session Cycle: SP
  
  • MUS 155 - Guitar Class

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    [EA2, RE] Basic techniques for playing solos and accompaniments. Students need to provide an acoustical guitar, preferably with nylon strings, and study material. Beginners only. 1 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 2:
    How do we Interact with Different Cultures & Times [EA2], with Reading Emphasis [RE].
    Course Session Cycle: Fall & Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • MUS 161, 162 to 461, 462 - Applied Music Lessons

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

    Course Session Cycle: FA
  
  • MUS 205 - Introduction to Music in Appalachia

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    [EA2, SE] This survey course will examine geographical, cultural, and artistic influences on Appalachian music styles, especially Old-Time, Bluegrass, Blues, and Gospel, and related genres, such as folk and country music styles. Representative musical performances, as well as written and oral histories of the region, will be examined and discussed. 3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 2:
    How do we Interact with Different Cultures & Times [EA2], with Speaking Emphasis [SE].
    Course Session Cycle: Fall and Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • MUS 310 - Introduction to Conducting

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

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 105 MUS 106 MUS 107 , and  MUS 108  
    Course Session Cycle: Fall
  
  • MUS 315 - Teaching Methods in Vocal/Choral Music Education

    Credit Hour(s): 2
     This course focuses on the organization and development of elementary and secondary choral organizations with an emphasis on rehearsal techniques, vocal production and blend, vocal pedagogy, diction, and appropriate choral repertoire for elementary and secondary choral ensembles. Additionally, students will visit local schools for observation and learning. 2 Credit(s). 2 Contact Hour(s).


    Prerequisite(s): MUS 105 - Music Theory I   MUS 106 - Aural Skills Lab I  

    MUS 107 - Music Theory II   MUS 108 - Aural Skills Lab II   

    MUS 310 - Introduction to Conducting    
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  • MUS 358 - Music: Baroque and Classic Periods

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      2 Credit(s).


    Course Session Cycle: Spring

  
  • MUS 465 - Senior Recital

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

      1 Credit(s).


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

  
  • MUS 480 - Music Seminar: Advanced Topics in Performance

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

    Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor.
  
  • MUS 499 - Internship

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    The internship is designed to give the student practical work experience related to music performance, business, administration, teaching, or community building. The work experience is carefully chosen to fit the specific needs of the individual student. The internship is carefully supervised to insure a job experience that will help make the transition to a fruitful career. Before students enroll in this course they must complete several requirements that are listed in the Internship Handbook.  Off-campus internships will require students to provide their own transportation or housing. Internship Fee 3 Credit(s). 3 Contact Hour(s).

    Course Yearly Cycle: As needed

Nursing

  
  • NUR 100 - Introduction to Professional Nursing

    Credit Hour(s): 1
    Introduces essential competencies for success in the nursing program and for professional nursing practice. 1 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Fall and Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • NUR 300 - Foundations of Professional Nursing Practice

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    Introduces historical perspectives and contemporary progression of nursing as a profession. Essential concepts and competencies of safe and effective nursing practice are explored. Nursing is presented from the perspective of advocacy, patient safety, and public trust. Students will develop an academic success plan for nursing as a major. 4 Credit(s). 4 Contact Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the major
    Course Session Cycle: Fall
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • NUR 302 - Foundations of Professional Nursing Practice

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    This course reinforces and expounds upon foundational theoretical nursing knowledge, ethical and legal considerations, regulatory frameworks, and practical skills that are essential to safe and competent practice. Students will integrate knowledge and skills, and advance the concepts related to critical thinking and decision making.  This course is for post-licensure students. 4 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  
  
  
  
  • NUR 330 - Pathophysiology

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    In this course students will explore mechanisms of disease, manifestation of symptoms, and treatments across the lifespan. Physical or biochemical changes that are the cause or result of pathology or disease processes will be examined. 3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    BIO 254 - Human Anatomy and Physiology I   

    BIO 255 - Human Anatomy and Physiology II   

     
    Course Session Cycle: Fall
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  
  
  
  • NUR 351 - US Health Police & Ethics

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    This course begins with an exploration of ethics. Students will become familiar with theories, and how these theories can be applied in practice and in policy making. Current healthcare issues will serve as the platform for concept analyses.  This course is for post-licensure students. 3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    NUR 301 - Academic Onboarding for Nursing  
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  
  
  
  
  • NUR 371 - Research & Evidence Based Practice

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    This course focuses on the role of research in nursing and health care delivery for the purpose of developing evidence-based practice. Emphasis is placed upon an understanding of the basics of nursing research methods, critical appraisal of research, and the concepts of evidence-based practice. Analysis and comprehension of nursing research to adequately critique and incorporate into evidence-based practice will be explored.  This course is for post-licensure students. 4 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    NUR 301 - Academic Onboarding for Nursing  
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  • NUR 391 - Interprofessional Collaboration

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    Students will explore the concepts and constructs related to effective interprofessional practice. Course work will illustrate opportunities for collaboration and allow for practice of exchanging of ideas, debate, conflict resolution, and gaining consensus when patient outcomes are at stake. The theme of provision of care based on common goal is threaded throughout the course.  This course is for post-licensure students. 3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    NUR 301 - Academic Onboarding for Nursing  
    Course Session Cycle: Spring, Summer
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  
  • NUR 417 - Current, Future, and Transcultural Issues in Nursing

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    In this course students examine the past, current and future impact of selected themes/trends related to health care and nursing practice. Emphasis is on cultural assessment and providing culturally competent nursing care from an inclusive/intercultural caring perspective. Highlights the longitudinal nature of many contemporary issues and trends that have a direct impact on the development of nursing science, practice, health policy, and education. 3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    NUR 301 - Academic Onboarding for Nursing  
    Course Session Cycle: Fall and Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  • NUR 461 - Gerontological Nursing

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    This course focuses on caring for the elderly by employing a holistic, inter-disciplinary approach and an emphasis on healthy aging. The concept of polypharmacy will be emphasized as problematic in this population. Dementia, delirium, and depression will be a focal point of study as these conditions present with similar presentation in the geriatric population and an understanding of such will improve the care and outcomes. Course content follows the framework of the Core Competencies of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the John A. Hartford Foundation Institute for Geriatric Nursing. This course is for post-licensure students. 4 Credit(s).

    This course is part of the Online RN to BSN Program.
    Course Session Cycle: Fall and Spring
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  
  • NUR 471 - Current, Future, and Transcultural Issues in Nursing

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    In this course students examine the past, current and future impact of selected themes/trends related to health care and nursing practice. Emphasis is on cultural assessment and providing culturally competent nursing care from an inclusive/intercultural caring perspective. Highlights the longitudinal nature of many contemporary issues and trends that have a direct impact on the development of nursing science, practice, health policy, and education.  This course is for post-licensure students. 3 Credit(s).


    Prerequisite(s):  

    NUR 301 - Academic Onboarding for Nursing  
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year

  
  
  • NUR 481 - Leadership & Management

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    This course focuses on management and leadership theory, principles, and practice application. An emphasis is placed on skill and strategy development, which are essential for effective healthcare management and leadership. The delegation process is also a focal point as it relates to safe, practical oversight of care delivery. Students will explore how healthcare policies, including financial and regulatory policies, directly and indirectly influence nursing practice. This course is for post-licensure students. 4 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  
  • NUR 491 - Nursing Informatics & Data Management

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    In this course studnets explore the history of healthcare informatics, current issues, basic informatics concepts, and health inromation management applications.  Effective cyclical planning is a critical skill in nursing and is dependent on the accuracy of data. This course is for post-licensure students. 3 Credit(s).

    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  

Philosophy

  
  • PHI 101 - Logic

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

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

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

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as meeting the Core Competency in Global and Social Responsibility [GSR].
    Course Session Cycle: Fall & Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • PHI 207 - Selected Topics in Philosophy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Physics

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

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

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

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    First half of a laboratory science sequence emphasizing general principles in physics.  Topics covered include the elements of the Newtonian mechanics. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 111  or MTH 203   
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every
  
  • PHY 202 - General Physics II

    Credit Hour(s): 4
    Second half of a laboratory science sequence emphasizing general principles in physics.  Topics covered include the elements of continuum mechanics, thermal physics, and electromagnetism. This course has an additional fee. 4 Credit(s). 6 Contact Hour(s).


    Prerequisite(s): MTH 111  or MTH 203  

    PHY 201  
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year


Political Science

  
  • PSC 101 - American National Government and Politics

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

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as meeting the Core Competency in Global and Social Responsibility [GSR].
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • PSC 202 - State and Local Government

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

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as meeting the Core Competency in Global and Social Responsibility [GSR].
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Every Year
  
  • PSC 203 - International Politics

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

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as meeting the Core Competency in Global and Social Responsibility [GSR].
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years
  
  • PSC 205 - Comparative Government

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

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as meeting the Core Competency in Global and Social Responsibility [GSR].
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Odd Years
  
  • PSC 207 - Special Issues in Political Science

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

  
  • PSC 300 - Research Methods

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

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

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

    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years
  
  • PSC 303 - Political Theory from Socrates to Locke

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

  
  • PSC 304 - Modern Ideologies

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    [EA3, RE] A survey of the ideologies of liberal democracy, totalitarian democracy, and Marxism. Students will read the works of John Stuart Mill, Rousseau, Marx, and Engels. 3 Credit(s).

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 3: How do we Evaluate and Solve Problems [EA3], with Reading Emphasis [RE].
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years
  
  • PSC 306 - Politics and Human Rights

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

  
  • PSC 308 - Media and Politics

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

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

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    [EA4, WE] An examination of the character, functions, and roles of political parties and political interest groups. 3 Credit(s).


    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 4: How do we prepare for and engage in a meaningful life [EA4], with Writing Emphasis [WE].
    Prerequisite(s): ENG 112 - Composition & Research  with a grade of “C” or higher.

    Satisfactory completion of any Written Communication Core Competency course.
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years

  
  • PSC 324 - U.S. Constitutional Law

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    [EA3, SE] 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).

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 3: How do we Evaluate and Solve Problems [EA3], with Speaking Emphasis [SE].
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Odd Years
  
  • 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: Eterm Course
    Course Yearly Cycle: Occasionally
  
  • PSC 399 - Citizenship and Service Learning

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    [EA4, RE] 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).

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 4: How do we prepare for and engage in a meaningful life [EA4], with Reading Emphasis [RE].
    Course Session Cycle: Spring Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Even Years
  
  • PSC 402 - Policy Analysis

    Credit Hour(s): 3
    [EA3, QE] 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).

    This course has been identified in the General Education Curriculum as addressing Exploration Area 3: How do we Evaluate and Solve Problems [EA3], with Quantitative Emphasis [QE].
    Prerequisite(s): PSC 101 - American National Government and Politics   
    Course Session Cycle: Fall Semester
    Course Yearly Cycle: Odd Years
 

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