2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Jun 17, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Psychology

  
  • PSY 322 - Educational Psychology


    A study of psychological models, research, and principles applied to the process of education. This course emphasizes developmental models, theories of learning, and human diversity. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 323 - Adolescent Development


    An examination of the individual, interpersonal, and contextual changes and behaviors that are typical of adolescent development. Emphasis is given to the physical, cognitive, psychosocial, emotional, and spiritual changes associated with adolescence. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 324 - Cognitive Psychology


    A course designed to introduce students to basic theoretical models and current issues in the field of cognitive psychology. This course explores the research methodologies and theoretical frameworks used to study cognitive abilities. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 339 - Topics in Psychology


    A course in which the student studies a topic not fully addressed in the available psychology course offerings. Repeatable. Offered on demand.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 341 - Theories of Personality, Social, and Emotional Development


    A review of major theories and models of personality development, social development, and emotional development, including their applications, research methods, and assessment instruments. This course examines the impact of empirical research on these theories within a historical framework. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 342 - History and Systems of Psychology


    An overview of the history of ideas about the mind and the development of psychology as a science and an academic discipline. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 351 - Biological Foundations of Behavior


    An introduction to research and perspectives on the interrelations of the brain, the mind, and behavior. A study of the brain and its anatomical and functional organization provides context for studying the origins of behavioral neuroscience. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 361 - Sport Psychology


    A course designed to examine and apply the theories, research, and applications of psychology that pertain to exercise and sport. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 421 - Abnormal Psychology


    An examination of historical perspectives, principles of clinical diagnosis, possible causes of behavior, and classical schools of therapy. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    PSY 101

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 422 - Theological Integration in Psychology and Psychotherapy


    A course evaluating basic approaches to the relationship between Christianity and psychology, with special emphasis on models of psychotherapy. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • PSY 491 - Senior Seminar


    A culminating course for Psychology majors that leads to a general synthesis of and specific research in the field of study. Seniors only. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3

Recreation and Tourism

  
  • RCT 141 - Foundations of Recreation and Tourism


    An introduction to the history, philosophy, and theoretical concepts of leisure, recreation, and tourism. The focus of this course is the exploration of trends, issues, theories, models, key organizations, principal journals, and professional literature in the recreation and tourism industry. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 142 - Programming and Leadership in Recreation


    A study of the development and leadership of recreation and tourism programs and services. This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the overall recreation programming process. Students are introduced to the fundamental principles and techniques necessary to plan, implement, and evaluate leisure and recreation programs and events. Topics include biblical and theological perspectives on leadership, assessing needs, developing goals and objectives, designing program services, marketing programs, implementing and delivering program services, facilitating leisure experiences, program evaluation, group dynamics, and leadership styles and methods. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 151 - Backcountry Skills and Techniques


    A field intensive course designed to introduce students to the basics of first aid treatment, effective navigation, and low impact travel in the backcountry. Emphasis is placed on Wilderness First Aid, Leave No Trace ethics, and orienteering techniques. WFA and CPR available upon successful completion of the course along with Leave No Trace Trainer qualification. Field trips required. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    This course contains significant backcountry components and requires appropriate equipment. Course material is taught indoors and outdoors regardless of weather and conditions. Students should be appropriately prepared for long spans of time spent outdoors in varying conditions.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 241 - Leisure Behavior and Diverse Populations in Recreation and Tourism


    An examination of the leisure patterns and needs of diverse populations as they specifically relate to the delivery of recreation and tourism services. Students are introduced to professional, legal, and ethical issues as they explore the impact of stereotypes, societal attitudes, personal biases, and organizational perspectives on diversity. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 242 - Travel and Tourism


    A course designed to provide students with an overview of the travel and tourism industry as an important global phenomenon. The course examines cultural, ethical, historical, behavioral, political, and economic aspects of tourism, as well as the impacts of travel and tourism on a local and global scale. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 251 - Outdoor Skills and Group Strategies


    A field intensive course that provides students the opportunity to learn and practice the outdoor skills and group management techniques necessary to become a competent outdoor instructor. Emphasis is on developing the knowledge, skills, and judgment essential to leading safe personal and group participation in a variety of outdoor activities. Students learn about, use, and maintain specialized equipment and explore methods for effective management of groups. Specific outdoor activities vary, but may include rock climbing, mountain biking, whitewater kayaking, backpacking, and skiing. Field trips required. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    This course contains significant backcountry components and requires appropriate equipment. Course material is taught indoors and outdoors regardless of weather and conditions. Students should be appropriately prepared for long spans of time spent outdoors in varying conditions.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 253 - Leave No Trace Master Educator


    A study of ethical behavior in the outdoors. This course provides comprehensive training in Leave No Trace skills and ethics. Students learn how to train others in the Leave No Trace principles and explore biblical principles of stewardship. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 254 - Wilderness First Responder


    A course designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills essential to both treating ill and injured persons and making critical medical decisions in a wilderness setting. Topics include basic anatomy and physiology, patient assessment and treatment, patient care, evacuation considerations, and legal responsibilities. The course meets requirements for WFR certification. Field trips required. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Course material is taught indoors and outdoors regardless of weather conditions. Students should be appropriately prepared for long spans of time spent outdoors in varying conditions.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 255 - Expedition Planning and Management


    An overview of the methods used in the effective planning, preparation, and management of expeditions of all types. The course explores how the topics of goal setting, leadership, team selection and training, research, budgeting and finance, transportation, logistics, risk management, and more pertain to planning and managing domestic and international expeditions. Course requirements include planning and managing an expedition. Field trips required. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 261 - Adventure and Experiential Education


    An introduction to the philosophies and foundations of adventure programming. This course explores the process of developing interpersonal, intrapersonal, and group development outcomes through adventure education. Students study adventure education in the US and develop methods for teaching and leading adventurous activities. Topics include terminology, influential individuals, key organizations, history, models, theories, benefits, transference, trends, issues, and public and private resources. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 262 - Outdoor Leadership


    A study of the theories and principles of outdoor leadership. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead effectively. It explores the topics of expedition behavior, group dynamics, effective teaching, leadership styles, risk management, responsibility, decision-making, judgment, effective communication, and biblical examples of leadership. Focus is on the development of both the competencies required of an outdoor leader and a personal leadership style founded on biblical practices and perspectives. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 291 - Practicum


    A 45-hour field experience designed to provide insight into the recreation and tourism industry through practical application of classroom principles to the workplace. The practicum is supervised by both the cooperating organization and a University faculty member and must be completed prior to the required internship. The practicum should be arranged with the cooperating organization and approved by the student’s faculty advisor prior to enrollment in the course. Both semesters.

    Credits: 1
  
  • RCT 369 - Special Topics in Recreation and Tourism


    A study in leadership on a topic selected by the student and/or professor that develops the student in an area or set of related areas not fully addressed in the available recreation and tourism course offerings. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 441 - Assessment and Evaluation in Recreation and Tourism


    A study of the principal processes and methods of evaluation and research in recreation and tourism. Topics include problem identification, research design, use of surveys, and data analysis. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 442 - Safety and Risk Management


    A course that examines issues of law, safety, liability, and risks as they relate to the provision of recreation and tourism services. The course emphasizes a safety-focused and proactive approach to risk management and explores the concepts of public policy, tort liability, contract law, constitutional law, negligence, legal precedents, standard of care, perceptions of risk, human rights, and risk management resources and methods. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RCT 491 - Strategic Decision Making


    A course designed to provide students with an understanding of strategic management processes as they apply to recreation and tourism organizations. Students examine the strategies, processes, tools, data, and organizational climate necessary for effective decision-making as they apply their knowledge of recreation and tourism to analyze actual industry issues. The focus of this course is to develop the analytical abilities and strategic decision-making essential to solving practical industry problems and optimizing both system effectiveness and organizational success. Second semester.

    Credits: 3

Russian

  
  • RUS 231 - Elementary Russian I


    A study of foundational vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of Russian. Attention is given to the relationship between the Russian language and Russian-speaking cultures. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • RUS 232 - Elementary Russian II


    A continuing study of the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of Russian. Attention is given to the relationship between the Russian language and Russian-speaking cultures. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    RUS 231

    Credits: 3

Social Science

  
  • SOC 131 - Introduction to Judaism


    A study of the beliefs, ideas, and practices of Judaism and major individuals and movements in Judaism’s development since the biblical era. Emphasis is placed on Jewish identity and the social institutions of family and religion. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 141 - Systems of the City


    A study of the complex systems of a city, including local government, health care, education, welfare, policing, housing, prisons, immigration, and recreation. The systems are viewed both from the position of those enacting the power and the recipients of the systems in order to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the urban environment and the potential and challenges associated with urban ministry. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 142 - Urban Community Analysis


    The theory and practice of critically interpreting and explaining an urban community. Emphasis is placed on defining a community, determining community boundaries, and understanding how people function within those boundaries. Specific skill development includes conducting applied and demographic research, developing surveys, data mining, statistics analysis, and the use of Geographic Information Systems. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 202 - Sociocultural Studies


    A study of human culture, social structure, anthropology, and human interaction in society and the world. Special attention is given to anthropological thought and theory, as well as the social institutions of society: the family, school, church, business, and government. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 331 - Cultural Anthropology


    An exploration of human culture, including the study of anthropological thought and theory. Emphasis is placed on cultural dynamics, change processes, social structures, globalization, and urbanization. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 332 - Economics


    A study of economic systems. Emphasis is placed on historical and contemporary relationships between consumers and producers, price determination and market interaction, and income and employment determination. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 333 - Political Science


    An examination of the theories, concepts, approaches, and enduring questions of political theory. Contemporary systems are analyzed in relation to the philosophical foundations of Western political development. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 339 - Topics in Sociology


    A course in which the student studies issues and ideas not fully addressed in the available sociology course offerings. Repeatable. Offered on demand.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 431 - Group Dynamics


    An experiential analysis of group processes and the behavior of individuals within group structures. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 432 - The Family


    A study of the life cycle of the family, the basic unit of society. Variations in the family and family functioning are examined through biblical, social, and cultural perspectives. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SOC 433 - Geography


    A study of the relationships between physical and human geography incorporating the Five Themes: location, place, human-environment interaction, movement, and region. Either semester.

    Credits: 3

Social Work

  
  • SWK 101 - Social Work Basics


    A study of the profession of social work and professional basics of assisting people in crisis. Focus is on the biblical doctrine of social responsibility and relationship. The course includes a detailed overview of social welfare history and philosophy unfolding from Bible times to the present day. Emphasis is placed on the foundational development of knowledge, the understanding and application of social work values, and the beginning development of generalist social work practice and policy skills. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 102 - Human and Cultural Diversity


    A course that explores attitudes toward differences and the effect of human diversity on social interaction and service delivery. Attention is given to differences based on race, ethnicity, and nationality; gender and sexual orientation; culture and lifestyle; and socioeconomic status. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 201 - Social Work Experience


    A pre-professional course for students in the social work profession. This course includes field practicum orientation and training, as well as social work field experience in order to develop a better understanding of the vocation of social work, the populations needing social services, and the environments where the social work profession exists. First semester.

    Credits: 2
  
  • SWK 202 - Social Work Organizations


    A course that focuses on the understanding of managerial and leadership functions in human service organizations from the perspective of beginning generalist social work practice. It provides an overview of how supervisors and managers think, including their concerns, priorities, and worldviews. It also explores the daily activities of direct service workers in various social service organizations. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 261 - Prison and Prisoners


    An examination of the history and philosophy of incarceration in the US, with particular emphasis on the characteristics of prisoners. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 321 - Social Policy: Formation and Analysis


    A course that focuses on five facets of social policy: (1) The significance of societal values and the historical context in the creation of policy; (2) The process of policy formulation; (3) Two established frameworks of analyzing policy on national and local levels; (4) Policy activism in creating/shaping new and modifying existing policy; and (5) Three criterion for social and economic justice - equity, equality, and fairness. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 322 - Human Behavior in the Social Environment


    A course that has a person-in-environment focus, examining the relationship among human biological, psychological, spiritual, and sociocultural systems and their effect on human behavior and development. Knowledge and theory about the range of social systems in which individuals live, such as families, groups, organizations, institutions, and communities are also examined. The course also examines ways in which systems promote or deter the maintenance of optimal health and well-being. Focus is given to the flow between the micro, mezzo, and macro dimensions of intervention. Attention is given to determinants of behavior such as age, ethnicity, race, social class, sexual orientation, and physical disabilities. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 361 - Child Welfare Policy and Services


    An introductory course to child welfare policy and practice that focuses on the history of child welfare in the United States, the three major laws governing child welfare in Pennsylvania (ASFA, the Juvenile Act, and the CPS law), an overview of the major components of the child welfare system, and current child welfare reform efforts. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 362 - Working with Children and their Families


    A course that prepares students for generalist practice with children, strongly emphasizing work in the context of family and community. Skill development is a significant focus, with intervention modalities appropriate for a bachelor’s level worker. A developmental and systemic perspective serves as a framework for assessment and intervention. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 363 - Addictions and Interventions


    A course that prepares students for generalist practice with those struggling with addictions, focusing on alcohol and drugs, but also addressing behavioral addictions such as gambling, food addictions, sexual addictions, and pornography. Skill development is emphasized, including screening, assessment, and treatment modalities appropriate for bachelor’s level practice. Systems perspective informs intervention with children and families impacted by addictions, as well as issues related to culture, diversity, and community. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 364 - Social Work and Criminal Justice


    An introduction, overview, and survey of the American criminal justice system and the integral role the social work profession plays in its subsystems - police, courts, juvenile justice, corrections, and victim witness assistance. The class examines the role, development, policies, and management of the different public agencies and organizations that constitute the criminal justice system. Special emphasis is placed on integrating a biblical worldview with criminal justice and studying biblical and restorative justice models. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 365 - Forgiveness and Restorative Justice


    A course that explores the theological, psychological, and restorative justice dynamics of forgiveness. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 366 - Criminal Law


    An exploration of the fundamental principles of substantive criminal law covering the types of crimes, the concept of defense, and the process of adjudication. Either semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 371 - Strategic Grant Writing


    A course that examines how to write proposals for special projects and general support, define program objectives, select approaches and plan a program evaluation, prepare a proposal budget, and package the proposal. Other topics include identifying appropriate funders; researching and establishing relationships with government, foundations, and corporations; reading foundation tax returns; and using resources available on the internet and at local libraries. Either semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SWK 202

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 431 - Social Work Practice I


    Course content prepares students for beginning generalist practice with systems at the micro level of intervention, particularly with individuals. Some attention is given to working with families. Focus is on the professional use of self and developing knowledge and skills at a beginning professional level. Approaches and skills for practice with clients from differing backgrounds is also studied. Coordinated with Seminar and Field I. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 432 - Seminar and Field I


    One seminar session each week in which field instruction (minimum of one day each week in a professional social work setting) is coordinated with the classroom instruction of Social Work Practice I. The class provides a structured learning experience that provides students with opportunities to compare their field placement experiences, integrating faith, theory, and practice. The course also examines the use of professional supervision to enhance learning and the development of professional use of self. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates. Application procedure is required for field practicum. Must be taken concurrently with SWK 431.

    Credits: 2
  
  • SWK 441 - Social Work Practice II


    A study of knowledge, values, and skills for social work practice from a beginning generalist perspective. Course content includes approaches and skills in client intervention at the micro (individual) and mezzo (family) level of social work practice. The course examines the integration of theory and practice. Coordinated with Seminar and Field II. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 442 - Seminar and Field II


    One seminar session each week in which field instruction (minimum of one day each week in a professional social work setting) is coordinated with the classroom instruction of Social Work Practice II. The class provides a structured learning experience that provides students with opportunities to compare their field placement experiences, integrating faith, theory, and practice. The course also examines the use of professional supervision to enhance learning and the development of professional use of self. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates. Must be taken concurrently with SWK 441.

    Credits: 2
  
  • SWK 451 - Social Science Statistics


    Introduction to social science statistics in the context of its use in empirical research. The course teaches an understanding of descriptive statistics, including graphs, central tendencies, variability, and correlation/regression. The course also teaches inferential statistics, including the concepts of sampling distributions, hypothesis testing, cross tabulation, and commonly used statistical tests (t, F, Chi Square tests), as well as a brief discussion of multivariate analysis. Students use SPSS Statistics software. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 452 - Social Research


    Orientation to the basic principles of social research. Emphasis is on developing research mindedness and critical thinking, leading to use of research methods for problem-solving in beginning generalist social work practice, in addition to the evaluation of existing research. This course focuses on the completion of a research project that models the research process, stressing the importance of ethics in research. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates; other students may elect this course with approval of the dean.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 461 - Aging Issues and Services


    An overview course designed to familiarize students to issues connected to aging, while exploring their own attitudes about aging in order to prepare them to engage older people with their professional disciplines. Topics include aging demographics; physiological, social, and psychological changes; services and interventions; social policies; legal issues; models of successful aging; and biblical perspectives. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 472 - Social Entrepreneurship


    A course designed to introduce the concept of social entrepreneurship - the identifying and solving of social problems on a large scale by using innovative solutions. The student combines the disciplines of both business and social work and learns to identify problems, analyze the environment, develop strategies, and implement solutions to create and sustain high-performing nonprofit organizations. Second semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 491 - Internship


    A once-a-week field experience in a Christian setting under the supervision of faculty that focuses on service to persons with many human needs. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to students in the Social Service Interdisciplinary program.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SWK 591 - Social Work Practice III


    A capstone course with a focus on beginning generalist social work practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities. This course includes social planning, social policy, and social action with a social change focus. Projects and presentations demonstrating competence in social work practice are required. Coordinated with Seminar and Field III. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates.

    Credits: 5
  
  • SWK 592 - Seminar and Field III


    One seminar session each week in which the block placement field instruction (four days each week in a professional/social work setting) is coordinated with the classroom instruction of Social Work Practice III. The seminar provides students with opportunities to share and discuss their practice experiences of actual client services. The class provides a structured learning experience that provides students with opportunities to compare their field placement experiences, integrating faith, theory, and practice. The course also examines the use of professional supervision to enhance learning and the development of professional use of self. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates. Must be taken concurrently with SWK 591.

    Credits: 1
  
  • SWK 593 - Field Practicum


    A four-day-a week block placement in a professional social work setting. Students are supervised for the 14-week duration of the placement by an experienced social work field instructor. This practicum is coordinated with the classroom instruction of Social Work Practice III. First Semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Open only to B.S.W. candidates. Application procedure is required for field practicum.

    Credits: 8

Spanish

  
  • SPA 231 - Elementary Spanish I


    A study of foundational vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of Spanish. Attention is given to the relationship between the Spanish language and Spanish-speaking cultures. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPA 232 - Elementary Spanish II


    A continuing study of the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of Spanish. Attention is given to the relationship between the Spanish language and Spanish-speaking cultures. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPA 231

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPA 331 - Intermediate Spanish I


    A course to build oral proficiency in Spanish, expand knowledge of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and improve reading and writing skills. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPA 232

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPA 332 - Intermediate Spanish II


    A course to build oral proficiency in Spanish, expand knowledge of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and improve reading and writing skills. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPA 331

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPA 431 - Spanish Literature and Culture


    A study of the historical, geographical, artistic, psychological, and social aspects of contemporary Spanish-speaking cultures. Special emphasis is given to the contribution of major Spanish authors. Either semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPA 331

    Credits: 3

Special Education

  
  • SPE 211 - Foundations of Special Education


    A course designed to introduce the regular classroom teacher to the philosophical, historical, legal, and ethical foundations of special education. Students engage in a study of the categories of disabilities, educational adaptations, and family and life span issues. Includes a field experience practicum in a more restrictive setting to observe and develop competency in working with exceptionalities. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 311 - Inclusionary Practices


    A course designed to study the methodology for teaching exceptional children in inclusive education settings. Multidisciplinary teaming, collaboration, management, instructional strategies, and home/school partnerships are examined.  Cultural and learning diversity are addressed in the context of an inclusive education setting. Includes a field experience practicum in an inclusive setting to observe and develop competencies in working with exceptionalities in the regular classroom. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 211 (May be taken concurrently). Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 461 - Diagnosis and Evaluation of the Exceptional Learner


    A course designed to acquaint students with the procedures used in a comprehensive appraisal and assessment system based upon federal and state guidelines for students with disabilities. Application of diagnostic results to classroom instruction is a focus.  Issues in the evaluation of special-needs students are addressed. Second semester. Offered alternate years. Alternate summers.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 211. Must be fully accepted into a PA certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 462 - Developmental and Diagnostic Reading Interventions


    A course designed to examine and practice using research-validated literacy programs that incorporate evaluating and monitoring systems and instructional strategies to target deficiencies and increase language and literacy proficiency. Second semester. Offered alternate years. Alternate summers.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 211. Must be fully accepted into the Special Education certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 463 - Teaching Children with Higher Incidence Disabilities


    A course designed to develop instructional strategies, modifications, and accommodations required to meet the needs of students with high incidence disabilities in a regular classroom setting.  Included in this classification are learning disabilities, emotional/behavioral disturbances, speech and language impairments, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. Transdisciplinary teaming, social service agencies, professional organizations, and family and lifespan issues are examined. Includes a field experience to observe and develop competency in working with exceptionalities. First semester. Offered alternate years. Alternate summers.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 211. Must be fully accepted into a PA certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 464 - Teaching Children with Lower Incidence Disabilities


    A course designed to develop instructional strategies, modifications, and accommodations required to meet the needs of students with low incidence disabilities in regular education and alternative settings. Included in this classification are hearing impairment, visual impairment, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, deafness, deaf-blindness, traumatic brain injury, and other health impairment. Transdisciplinary teaming, social service and professional agencies, and family and lifespan issues are examined. Includes a field experience to observe and develop competency in working with exceptionalities. Second semester. Offered alternate years. Alternate summers.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 211. Must be fully accepted into a PA certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 465 - Assessing and Managing Students with Behavioral Disabilities


    A course designed to study factors related to challenging social and emotional behaviors and to determine behavior supports and instructional methodologies that will lead to self-determined learning. Includes a field experience to observe and develop competency in working with exceptionalities. First semester. Offered alternate years. Alternate summers.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 211 & SPE 311. Must be fully accepted into a PA certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 481 - Behavior Analysis and Autism Assessment


    A course designed to provide an overview of applied behavior analysis and the characteristics, causes, and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Behavior and learning assessment methods for individuals with autism, including behavior observation and measurement, are examined. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Current clearances required. Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 482 - Behavioral Intervention in Autism


    A course designed to introduce the use of functional behavior assessment and the development of behavior intervention plans using the principles of applied behavior analysis among students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and related disorders. Summer session.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Current clearances required. Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 483 - Behavioral and Instructional Models for Autism Intervention


    A course designed to explore a variety of evidence-based behavioral and instructional intervention models and approaches for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and related disabilities. Topics include discrete trials, incidental teaching, prompting strategies, token economy, and others. The procedures of treatment plans, progress, and evaluation are introduced. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 484 - Behavioral and Instructional Systems for Autism Support


    A course designed to enhance the communication and social competence in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Areas of focus include deficits, strategies, pragmatics, and augmentative and alternative communication systems. Emphasis is also given to ethical practices and providing appropriate training and consultation, as well as implementing, managing, and supervising services that are provided in collaboration with school staff, related service providers, and community systems that support individuals with autism in the home, community, and work settings. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • SPE 491 - Delivery Systems in Least Restrictive Environments


    A two-week field experience designed to practice effective instructional delivery systems for reading, writing, and math for students with high incidence disabilities in the regular classroom, including the use of assistive technology, support services intervention, and collaborative professional and family partnerships. Summer session.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Any SPE course except SPE 211. Must be fully accepted into a PA certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 1
  
  • SPE 492 - Delivery Systems in More Restrictive Environments


    A three-week field experience designed to practice effective instructional delivery systems for small-group reading, writing, and math for students with low incidence disabilities in the special education setting, including the use of assistive technology, support services intervention, and collaborative professional and family partnerships. Summer session.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 464, SPE 481, SPE 482, SPE 483, or SPE 484. Must be fully accepted into a PA certification program. Current clearances required. 

    Credits: 2
  
  • SPE 495 - ABA Intensive Practicum - Group I


    A group-supervised intensive practicum designed to improve and maintain the behavior-analytic, professional, and ethical repertoires of the supervisee and facilitate the delivery of high-quality services to clients. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 481, SPE 482, SPE 483, or SPE 484. Fewer than 250 intensive practicum hours earned or its equivalent. Current clearances required. Must concurrently enroll in SPE 498 or arrange for pre-approved individual supervision. 

    Credits: 2
  
  • SPE 496 - ABA Intensive Practicum - Group II


    A group-supervised intensive practicum designed to improve and maintain the behavior-analytic, professional, and ethical repertoires of the supervisee and facilitate the delivery of high-quality services to clients. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 481, SPE 482, SPE 483, or SPE 484. 250-499 intensive practicum hours earned or its equivalent. Current clearances required. Must concurrently enroll in SPE 498 or arrange for pre-approved individual supervision. 

    Credits: 2
  
  • SPE 497 - ABA Intensive Practicum - Group III


    A group-supervised intensive practicum designed to improve and maintain the behavior-analytic, professional, and ethical repertoires of the supervisee and facilitate the delivery of high-quality services to clients. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    SPE 481, SPE 482, SPE 483, or SPE 484. 500 intensive practicum hours earned or its equivalent. Current clearances required. Must concurrently enroll in SPE 498 or arrange for pre-approved individual supervision. 

    Credits: 2
  
  • SPE 498 - ABA Intensive Practicum - Individual


    A one-on-one supervised intensive practicum designed to improve and maintain the behavior-analytic, professional, and ethical repertoires of the supervisee and facilitate the delivery of high-quality services to clients. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Corequisite: SPE 495, SPE 496, or SPE 497. Current clearances required.

    Credits: 2

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

  
  • TSL 411 - Foundations of Teaching English Learners


    A foundational course designed to prepare mainstream classroom teachers to work with English Learners. Students gain an understanding of the linguistic, social, cultural, and academic needs of ELs, as well as research-based strategies to adapt instruction and assessment to meet those needs. Two hours of field-based observation in a K-12 pull-out classroom are required. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • TSL 441 - Linguistics and Language Learning


    A course which provides a foundation in the analysis of language and the language learning process. The first part of the course addresses topics of phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics, focusing in particular on the features of English in relation to other languages and subsequent implications for classroom instruction. The second part examines the linguistic, cognitive, social, and affective factors involved in second language acquisition and development. Ten hours of fieldwork are required. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    TSL 411 (may be taken concurrently). Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program. Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • TSL 442 - English Grammar and Pronunciation


    A course that provides an in-depth examination of the form, meaning, and function of English grammatical structures, as well as an overview of the English sound system. Emphasis is on analyzing features of English in comparison with other languages and on developing the language awareness and teaching techniques necessary for effective contextualized teaching of English grammar and pronunciation within a communicative framework. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    TSL 411 (may be taken concurrently). Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program. Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • TSL 443 - Advanced TESOL Methods and Assessment


    A course that examines the critical link between instruction and assessment in improving support for English Learners. Emphasis is given to methods and techniques used to teach reading, writing, listening, and speaking across proficiency levels to promote growth in both literacy and oral language development. Both large-scale and classroom-based assessments are addressed as students gain understanding of issues surrounding language testing and practice developing authentic assessments. Ten hours of fieldwork are required. Current clearances requried. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    TSL 411 & TSL 441. Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program. Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • TSL 444 - Language, Culture, and Community


    A course that examines issues pertaining to multilingual/multicultural schools and communities. Students gain an understanding of topics in sociolinguistics and multiculturism pertinent to English Learners, as well as past and present ways that US schools have addressed linguistic diversity. Emphasis is on using this knowledge to strengthen students’ professionalism in their future role as English Program Specialists in meeting the needs of ELs and their families, strengthening home/school connections, serving as a resource to colleagues and the larger school community, and advocating on behalf of ELs and their families. Ten hours of fieldwork are required. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    TSL 411 & TSL 441. Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program. Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3
  
  • TSL 492 - TESOL Practicum


    A capstone course for the TESOL program which surveys current research and methodology related to classroom instruction and materials development. Students synthesize and apply program content as they teach in a supervised field placement and develop materials appropriate to their teaching context. Emphasis is on professional growth and development as students engage in self-analysis, practice reflective teaching, and receive constructive feedback. Thirty hours of observation and teaching practice in a K-12 pull-out ESL classroom are required. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    TSL 411, TSL 441, TSL 442, TSL 443, & TSL 444 (TSL 443 & TSL 444 may be taken concurrently). Education majors must be fully accepted into a certification program. Current clearances required.

    Credits: 3

Theology

  
  • THE 100 - Introduction to Christian Theology


    An introduction to major doctrines of Christianity and to theological method: biblical, systematic, and historical theology. The relevance of the truths of these doctrines to life is explored. Both semesters.

    Credits: 3
  
  • THE 131 - Theology of Urban Ministry


    An introduction to a theology of urban ministry and missions. Emphasis is placed on understanding the city from a Christ-centered framework. Includes historical study of urban ministry and missions, as well as current trends in the United States. First semester.

    Credits: 3
  
  • THE 221 - History and Theology of Missions


    An introduction to the theology of mission from both Old and New Testaments. Emphasis is given to the theology and mission activity in Acts and the Epistles. An overview of the history of missions provides the student with a perspective for understanding contemporary world missions. Second semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    THE 100

    Credits: 3
  
  • THE 311 - The Triune God


    A study of the nature and work of the God of the Bible in His triunity, including an exploration of the implications for the Christian life. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    THE 100

    Credits: 3
  
  • THE 312 - The Narrative of Redemption


    A study of God’s work in bringing salvation to the world from the original creation to the new creation through Jesus Christ, tracing the development of the doctrine through church history. Both semesters.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    THE 100

    Credits: 3
  
  • THE 321 - The Gospel and Society


    A study of the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts with emphasis on the relationship of God’s people to each other and the world. First semester.

    Prerequisites & Notes
    THE 100

    Credits: 3
 

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