Speaking Emphasis Requirement

Speaking Emphasis courses are designed to develop students’ oral/language-based communication skills in ways that are deemed important and desirable within a specific academic discipline or more generally across disciplines. The skills developed can range from performance-based speaker-audience interactions to one-on-one or group interactions based on the focus of the discipline. The emphasis of each SE course is to develop personal and professional advantages through the ability to put thoughts together and communicate effectively in a meaningful way.

Students must complete 9 credits of Speaking Emphasis coursework, 3 credits of which must be at the 300-400 level.

Courses in American sign language may meet the Speaking Emphasis requirement if they are designated as such.

NOTE: A Speaking Emphasis designation may only transfer into WCU if the course from a student's prior institution has been submitted to and approved by the Speaking Emphasis Committee of the Curriculum and Academic Policies Council (CAPC). To receive credit for this type of course, students must submit a Course Substitution Request to the Office of the Special Assistant for Academic Policy. For a course substitution to be granted, the substituting course must demonstrate not just that speaking was assigned or completed by students in the course, but that speaking was a significant part of course content and that direct instruction in speaking skills took place in the course. Ideally, a substituting course meets all of WCU’s speaking-emphasis designation criteria.

All transfer students who enter with fewer than 40 college-level credits must complete 9 credits of Speaking Emphasis coursework. Transfer students who enter with 40-70 college-level credits, must take at least 6 credits of Speaking Emphasis coursework. Students who transfer more than 70 college-level credits must take at least 3 credits of Speaking Emphasis coursework at the 300-400 level.

ARH

ARH 401. Contemporary Art. 3 Credits.

This course surveys forms of visual expression in our time and examines individual art works, artists, and their connections to social trends, theoretical ideas, and contemporary events. Analyzing traditional painting and sculpture, multimedia installations, interactive digital media, film projections, participatory and community engaged projects, and environmental interventions, this course looks at how the definition of art has been challenged and expanded. As the art of today around the globe addresses urgent social, cultural, and political themes while providing critical grounds for art historical discourses, this course explores intersections between contemporary politics and current events and art now.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

ART

ART 492. Senior Seminar. 3 Credits.

This course provides for the resolution of the technical and conceptual skills essential to success as a professional, or as a basis for continued post baccalaureate study. Each student is required to demonstrate appropriate competence within an individually described program of study / statement of intent while participating in discussions, individual and group critiques, and verbal presentations. This program will evidence artistic, cultural, and scholastic competence (the achievement of program and student learning outcomes) culminating in the required Capstone Project, BFA exhibition, and Gallery Talks.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

BIO

BIO 490. Capstone: Seminar in Biology. 3 Credits.

This course equips students with the skills needed to effectively communicate complex biology content and concepts to both non-scientists and scientists through written assignments and oral presentations. Skills developed include scientific literacy and the preparation and delivery of oral presentations. This course will prepare students for futures in professional biology by highlighting potential career paths, resume and cover letter development, and effective interviewing skills.
Pre / Co requisites: BIO 490 requires a prerequisite of 18 credits of BIO out of 90 credits of coursework.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

BIO 491. Capstone: Independent Research in Biology. 3 Credits.

Independent study and research for advanced undergraduate biology majors, on a topic approved by a supervising biology faculty member.
Pre / Co requisites: BIO 491 requires a prerequisite of 18 credits of BIO and 90 credits of coursework and an overall GPA of 2.50 and a BIO GPA of 2.50.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

BIO 492. Capstone: Professional Development in Biology. 3 Credits.

A work-study appointment with an external agency or university. Students will be supervised jointly by a professional scientist and a Department of Biology faculty member.
Pre / Co requisites: BIO 492 requires a prerequisite of 18 credits of BIO and 90 credits of coursework and an overall GPA of 2.50 and a BIO GPA of 2.50.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

BME

BME 410. Senior Design I. 3 Credits.

This is a capstone design course. This course provides students the opportunity to work with real-world, open-ended, and/or interdisciplinary challenges proposed by faculty or industrial project sponsors. Students work as a small team supervised by a faculty member and/or industry advisor. Students team learn and apply principles of engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics to solve biomedical engineering problems through the consideration of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts. The design process involves: defining functional requirements, conceptualization, design, development, construction, physical prototyping, measurement, analysis, and conclusion. An initial proposal and progress report are required at the beginning of the course as well as in the middle of these two semesters, respectively. A final report and post/oral presentations are required at the end of the second semester.
Pre / Co requisites: BME 410 requires prerequisites of BME 325, BME 345, BME 355, BME 365 or permission of the instructor.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

BUA

BUA 400. Senior Seminar in Business Analytics. 3 Credits.

This business analytics capstone course offers senior majors an extensive overview of the most current trends, contemporary issues, and best practices in the data science field. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of these topics and apply their analytical abilities to work on a capstone project. Upon completion, students will have a comprehensive understanding of business analytics and be prepared to tackle the challenges of the data science industry.
Pre / Co requisites: BUA 400 requires prerequisites of either FIN 385 or ECO 362, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

COM

COM 206. Argumentation. 3 Credits.

This course develops abilities to engage in effective oral argument. Topics covered include the structure of arguments, reasoning, fallacies, refutation, argumentation ethics, and answering questions.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

COM 209. Principles & Practice of Public Speaking I. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to build public speaking skills within the framework of an intensive "flipped" course format. Within this "flipped" format, students will be introduced to the theory of public speaking through a series of online lectures. In-class time will be reserved for public speaking practice and skill development. Topics covered include speech structure, speech introductions and conclusions, forms of support, speech delivery, persuasive speaking, and informative speaking.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

COM 309. Principles & Practice of Public Speaking II. 3 Credits.

This course refines students' public speaking skills and introduces students to new forms of public speaking. Topics covered include speech structure, speech delivery, impromptu speaking, ceremonial speaking, motivational speaking, style, narratives, and visual aids.
Pre / Co requisites: COM 309 requires a prerequisite of a C or higher in COM 209 (or SPK 208 for internal and external transfer students).
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CRJ

CRJ 240. Criminal Investigation. 3 Credits.

This course will introduce the student to the basic principles of criminal investigation during which relevant ethical issues will be raised. It will include a review of crime scene response, evidence collection and testing during the investigation of violent, property, and other crimes. Pertinent court decisions regarding arrest, interrogation, and search and seizure will be examined.
Pre / Co requisites: CRJ 240 requires a prerequisite of a grade of C or higher in CRJ 110.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CRJ 315. Gangs in America. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the nature and extent of the gang problem in the United States. It provides a comprehensive understanding of gang violence, gang membership, and gang culture. This course also analyzes the complexities of gang life, examines the history of gangs, and provides an in-depth look at the various types of gangs that are prevalent today. In addition, theories as to why youth join gangs, law enforcement's response to the gang problem, how correctional agencies are coping with the gang problem in prison/jails, and the mass media's interpretation of gang life are critically examined. Finally, this course reviews gang prevention/intervention programs and addresses the legal implications of gang policies on gangs, communities, and law enforcement.
Pre / Co requisites: CRJ 315 requires a prerequisite of a grade of C or higher in CRJ 110.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CRJ 325. Animal Cruelty. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to provide an intensive examination of the relationship between animal cruelty and the criminal justice system. It will cover the commission of animal cruelty within circumstances such as child abuse, interpersonal violence, and juvenile delinquency. This course will also cover the ethical analysis of animal cruelty and it is designed to develop oral communication skills. The final goal of the course is to offer students an understanding of the impact that animal cruelty has on society and the criminal justice system.
Pre / Co requisites: CRJ 325 requires a prerequisite of a grade of C or higher in CRJ 110.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CRJ 370. Gender, Crime, and Justice. 3 Credits.

This course provides a forum in which students are encouraged to examine the impact gender has on various aspects of the criminal justice system. The course will offer an exploration of the victimization of women and the culture that supports it. It will also address the unique issues of women as criminals, women as prisoners, and women as workers in the criminal justice system. Intersectionality is a fluid theme throughout the course, as matters of gender in the justice response oftentimes rest on marginalization based on several intersecting static traits, such as race, ethnicity, social status, and sexuality. It is important to understand the substantive nature of these groups as one attempts to identify issues and offer meaningful solutions. The ultimate aim is to help students foster an informed and reasoned openness to and an understanding of difference--a significant furtherance of the university's goal of graduating students who are committed to creating a just and equitable society.
Pre / Co requisites: CRJ 370 requires a prerequisite of a grade of C or higher in CRJ 110.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CRL

CRL 342. Physical Chemistry II Lab. 2 Credits.

Advanced laboratory course in physical chemistry including quantum chemistry, computer applications, advanced spectroscopy, and x-ray diffraction with an independent project. It is designed to develop discipline-specific oral communication skills.
Pre / Co requisites: CRL 342 requires a prerequisite of CRL 341 and a corequisite of CHE 342.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

CRL 371. Forensic Chemistry Lab. 2 Credits.

This course is the laboratory component of the forensic chemistry lecture course (CHE 371). The theoretical principles learned in the lecture will be practiced using a combination of different analytical techniques and examples of evidentiary materials. Students will practice fingerprint development, sample preparation techniques, presumptive tests, and instrumental analysis techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry. The course is also designed to help students become proficient in the science of writing laboratory reports and orally communicating scientific concepts and results of analyses.
Pre / Co requisites: CRL 371 requires a prerequisite of CHE 361 and a corequisite of CHE 371.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

CSD

CSD 270. Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication. 3 Credits.

The course is designed to introduce undergraduate students to a variety of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies (e.g., high-technology devices such as speech-generating computers and software programs and low-technology systems such as picture exchange communication) for people with communication disorders. Students will explore the Total Communication approach - an approach to Deaf education that includes a number of modes of communication such as signed, oral, auditory, written and visual aids - for interacting with individuals who have complex communication needs.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

CSD 401. Introduction to Clinical Research Methods. 3 Credits.

The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to clinical research topics in communication sciences and disorders and other related disciplines. Students will define basic concepts of clinical research, investigate clinical research literature, and identify a clinical research topic of interest. Ethical considerations for conducting research will be explored with a focus on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's Code of Ethics. Students' oral communication skills will be developed throughout the semester.
Pre / Co requisites: CSD 401 requires a prerequisite of 60 completed credits in the student's respective major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Summer.

EDA

EDA 416. Student Teaching for Exceptional Learners. 6 Credits.

Participation in teaching and all other activities in the student teaching role related to the teacher's work.
Pre / Co requisites: EDA 416 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy, EDA 103, EDA 203, EDA 314, EDA 321, EDA 324, EDA 325, EDA 327, EDA 361 or EDA 362 and EDA 363, EDA 413 and EDA 414 or EDA 380, and EDA 421.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EDA 417. Student Teaching for Exceptional Learners. 6 Credits.

Participation in teaching and all other activities in the student teaching role related to the teacher's work.
Pre / Co requisites: EDA 417 requires Teacher Candidacy, EDA 103, EDA 203, EDA 314, EDA 321, EDA 324, EDA 325, EDA 327, EDA 361 or EDA 362 and EDA 363, EDA 413 and EDA 414 or EDA 380, and EDA 421.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EDA 421. Curriculum and Instruction for Individual Learning Differences II and Field. 6 Credits.

This course and field is designed to prepare students to assist children with disabilities achieve skills in academics and functional life domains. Emphasis is placed on understanding and analysis of learning problems, and the design, plan and implementation of instructional interventions. Field clearances required.
Pre / Co requisites: EDA 421 requires prerequisites of EDA 103, EDA 203, EDA 314, EDA 321, EDA 361 or EDA 362 and EDA 363, and Teacher Candidacy.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

EDR

EDR 304. Teaching Language Arts Pre-K-4. 3 Credits.

This course examines theories, issues, methods, materials and assessments for a developmental PK-4 language arts program. Integrating reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, and visually representing as tools for communication, discovery, and learning across the curriculum will be emphasized. This course is intended to enable participants to help elementary students learn to communicate using various language competencies including writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and visually representing. As pre-service teachers and as writers, it is especially important to understand the writing process and how children learn to write. Students will explore the rituals and routines that foster a supportive language arts environment and the interconnections of language, literacy, and culture. They will examine various topics, such as the writing process, writing workshop, genres of writing, listening to learn, sustaining productive talk, spelling, grammar, assessment, and integration of technology. The writing activities in this course are designed to help students see themselves as writers and to reflect on their future role as exemplary teachers of writing.
Pre / Co requisites: EDR 304 requires a prerequisite of EGP 210.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

EDR 305. Teaching Language Arts for Students with Special Needs PreK-8. 3 Credits.

This course examines theories, issues, methods, materials and assessments for a PK-8 language arts program in a special education setting. Integrating reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing and visually representing as tools for communication, discovery, and learning across the curriculum will be emphasized. This course is designed to provide opportunities for students to develop their writing and speaking abilities over the course of the semester.
Pre / Co requisites: EDR 305 requires a prerequisite of EDP 250.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

EDR 306. Teaching Language Arts 4-8. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to study current trends for integrating language arts across curriculum in the middle school setting. Emphasis is placed on the connections between listening, speaking, writing, and reading. Instructional strategies that link reading, writing, literature, and language across the curriculum will be explored. Appropriate language arts curriculum, including pedagogy for early adolescents, will be addressed.
Pre / Co requisites: EDR 306 requires a prerequisite of EDP 201 or EDP 250.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

EGP

EGP 220. Theory/Field Experiences in the Early Grades. 3 Credits.

Orientation to the curricula, processes and structures of the PreK-4 classroom. Field experiences, minimum 30 hours, related to course topics. Field clearances required.
Pre / Co requisites: EGP 220 requires a prerequisite of either EGP 209 or EGP 210.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

EGP 410. Student Teaching. 6 Credits.

A semester-long, full-time field experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars are required.
Pre / Co requisites: EGP 410 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy, field clearances, and meets all coursework required for the major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EGP 411. Student Teaching. 6 Credits.

A semester-long, full-time field experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars are required.
Pre / Co requisites: EGP 411 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy, field clearances, and meets all coursework required for the major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EIT

EIT 360. Italian Cinema. 3 Credits.

A study of Italian cinema history and culture as seen through a selection of feature films. The primary aim of this course is to develop students' knowledge of the historical, cultural, and technical contexts in which Italian films and cultures have transformed within Italy and the rest of the world. Students will be introduced to themes and styles of Italian cinema from the rise of Fascism through the present.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arts Distributive Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

ENG

ENG 339. Dialects of American English. 3 Credits.

Development of the English language in America since colonial settlement. Pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar of the regional and social dialects of American English.
Pre / Co requisites: ENG 339 requires a prerequisite of LIN 230 or ENG 230.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

ENV

ENV 324. Environmental Sustainability. 3-4 Credits.

This course examines environmental sustainability through the interconnected lenses of social equity, economic vitality, and environmental protection. Students will identify solutions for unsustainable patterns and develop innovative thinking skills related to resource consumption, biodiversity conservation, human health and education, environmental justice, and the sustainable balance of all involved. Attention to these factors paves the way for humans and the environment and economy to thrive together rather than compete or merely survive.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

ESS

ESS 365. The Science and Media Connection: Producing and Communicating Science. 3 Credits.

This course is intended to prepare students to make multimedia products about fundamental scientific phenomena which can be used to educate and teach others. Through both theoretical and practical approaches, students learn skills and concepts that will enable them to complete a series of science-based creative projects and apply these skills toward future use.
Pre / Co requisites: ESS 365 requires a prerequisite of 60 credits.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses ESS/MDC 365, COM/ESS 565.

ESS 499. The Professional Geoscientist. 3 Credits.

This is the Geoscience Capstone course, which will serve as a culminating experience in which students will synthesize geoscience knowledge and interests that have been acquired, and along with the development of research skills, apply these skills in preparation of a geoscience research prospectus as an artifact for entry into a graduate program or career. Students will orally present and defend a research prospectus as well as related geoscience content and research topics of interest. Students will also develop competency in leading and partaking in whole and small group discussions and performing scenario-based and topic-based activities.
Pre / Co requisites: ESS 499 requires a prerequisite of 90 credits earned overall, of which 18 must come from ESS.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

EXS

EXS 103. Fundamentals of Group Exercise and Resistance Training. 3 Credits.

This course is intended to provide the student with the content knowledge and practical experience concerned with teaching group exercise classes as they develop oral communication skills. Furthermore, this class will provide the student with the skills necessary to properly perform essential exercises and the knowledge to teach others about the proper training techniques and form for the major muscle groups using a variety of exercises, free-weights, and machines.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EXS 490. Internship. 3-6 Credits.

The Exercise Science internship course is a capstone experience that permits students to apply their academic training and develop oral communication skills under the direction of certified fitness/wellness professionals and/or licensed clinical professionals. While classroom input is inherent in educational programs at West Chester University, the application of academic theory gives the student experiences that will add to their personal and professional maturity. The internship is a requirement for all students in the Exercise Science Division of the Kinesiology Department. The internship provides the student with the opportunity to ask pertinent questions, make observations, and participate in agency activities that normally would not be possible for a paid, full-time employee. All internship experiences must be undertaken in an agency that guarantees to provide the student with supervision by an exercise specialist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, chiropractor, or physician assistant possessing appropriate academic and certification credentials as well as licensure, appropriate to the student's concentration of study.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

FIN

FIN 400. Senior Seminar in Finance. 3 Credits.

This capstone course is a seminar for senior finance majors. Its main objective is to deepen students' understanding of relevant finance topics and current developments attributed to them, and to sharpen writing, speaking and critical thinking skills in the context of important finance topics. Students will explore various finance topics through quality finance sources, in-class activities and assignments.
Pre / Co requisites: FIN 400 requires prerequisites of FIN 326, FIN 344, and a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

GEO

GEO 333. Sustainable Cities. 3 Credits.

This course will explore the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development and how they have been applied to urban development in the quest to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal of making cities "inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.".
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

GEO 400. Senior Seminar In Geography. 3 Credits.

The study of historical and contemporary trends in geography; the design, preparation, and defense of a research proposal.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

HEA

HEA 346. Perspectives on Maternal Child Health. 3 Credits.

This course will provide an interdisciplinary perspective on maternal and child health (MCH). This class will ask students to synthesize perspectives from multiple disciplines to promote the health of families. Students will apply critical thinking skills to identify their positions on MCH issues as health consumers and/or health professionals and convey those positions using oral communication strategies. Multiple speaking assignments will enable students to practice and improve their oral communication skills.
Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

HEA 360. Pre-Clinical Lab for Respiratory Care. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to prepare Respiratory Care students for pre-clinical competencies and clinical rotations. Students will have the opportunity outside previous lecture classes for additional "hands-on" with equipment, technology, and simulations in preparation for successful completion of clinical competencies prior to clinical rotations. In addition, students will discover how to use effective communication skills to obtain a thorough patient assessment, as well as how to effectively communicate within the healthcare team.
Pre / Co requisites: HEA 360 requires a prerequisite of Respiratory Care majors only.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

HIS

HIS 224. Reform and Revolution in Imperial Russia. 3 Credits.

Focusing on the Russian Empire from the reforms of Peter the Great in the early eighteenth century to the overthrow of the Romanov dynasty in 1917, the course examines the experiences and perspectives of the empire's diverse peoples. It immerses students in the world of imperial Russia via role-playing simulations and the analysis of primary sources. Students develop the critical skills of reading, writing, and speaking from the perspective of a historian and from the perspective of multiple historical figures in conventional and creative genres.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Humanities Distributive Requirement, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

HIS 300. Varieties of History. 3 Credits.

Historical research techniques. Methodology, historiography, and varieties of history.
Pre / Co requisites: HIS 300 requires prerequisites of at least two 100-level history courses. Majors only.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HIS 313. Eugenics and the University: The History of Higher Education's "War on the Weak". 3 Credits.

This course examines the origins and impact of eugenics -- the pursuit of "improving" humanity through the elimination of "undesirable" populations -- on people with disabilities. In particular it looks at the history of higher education and many of its academic disciplines in order to understand the origins of eugenic thinking, research, and advocacy, the prominence that these notorious and ugly beliefs had within the highest rungs of the highly educated elite, and the efforts of people with disability to resist eugenics. In this course students use the tools of history to grapple with a difficult question: how did so many seemingly "good" people that we associate with enlightenment, learning, and good works, fail to recognize the evil of their eugenicist assumptions, research, and public health recommendations? How can our historical study of persons with disability and their efforts to challenge ableism in the past guide our thinking and practice in the present?.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HIS 381. The Forgotten Queens of Islam. 3 Credits.

Students will learn about prominent women in Islamic history, with a focus on the medieval period. Students will learn to read historical texts "against the grain" through the lens of feminist history.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses HIS 381, WOS 381.

HIS 400. Research Seminar in History. 3 Credits.

The Capstone course for History majors gives students an opportunity to conduct extensive original research, shared with peers through written and spoken-word presentation formats commonly valued by scholars. Topics will vary with instructor. Senior-standing strongly recommended.
Pre / Co requisites: HIS 400 requires a prerequisite of HIS 300.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HIS 451. Women and Gender in American History. 3 Credits.

The course examines the way ideas about women and gender have shaped the lives of Americans, their daily routines, social roles, and search for rights and identities from the pre-colonial period to the present.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HON

HON 211. Decision Making and Public Discourse. 3 Credits.

Examination of the role of ethical dialogue and debate in public policy making of rotating topics such as the environment or health care. Emphasis on logic and critical thinking as key roles in identifying problems, devising solutions, and evaluating proposed policies. Consistent with the emphasis on the public forum, students will develop public speaking and critical listening skills.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

HON 311. Stewardship and Civic Engagement. 3 Credits.

Foundations of market and nonmarket economies as they relate to good stewardship and civic responsibility. Fusing literature and economics, the values and limitations of market capitalism and command socialism will be addressed.
Gen Ed Attribute: Humanities Distributive Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

HON 359. Honors Seminar on Advanced Speaking Skills for Leaders. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to develop students' leadership skills by refining their individual public speaking abilities beyond the basics. Topics covered include speech structure, speech delivery, impromptu speaking, ceremonial speaking, motivational speaking, style, narratives, and visual aids.
Pre / Co requisites: HON 359 requires a prerequisite of HON 211 or COM 209.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.

HON 490. Honors Capstone Senior Project. 3-6 Credits.

Students will identify and investigate a problem in a community business, nonprofit agency, or research laboratory, and then work to solve the problem. Students will be expected to play an active role in the problem-solving effort and contribute a minimum of ten hours each week to help solve the problem. Students will seek interaction with the CEO, senior officer(s), and/or senior investigators of the business, agency, or laboratory, who will serve as leader models for student study. While projects are generally completed in the senior year, students may register for this course upon completion of the 27-hour core or by special permission of the Honors College Director.
Pre / Co requisites: HON 490 requires prerequisites of HON 100, HON 211, HON 212, HON 310, HON 311, HON 312 or HON 322, HON 314, and HON 315.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Repeatable for Credit.

HPE

HPE 489. Student Teaching - Elementary. 6 Credits.

Within this course the goal is to immerse teacher candidates into the world of public school education and challenge them to apply both content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge within the elementary school setting. It focuses on developing teacher candidates' oral communication skills. Teacher candidates will specifically be challenged to design and effectively deliver both skills-based health education and physical education instruction. Student teaching will emphasize their ability to: differentiate instruction, design developmentally appropriate learning progressions, integrate technology, assess student learning, demonstrate proficient oral communication skills, advocate for health and physical education, design and implement a Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program (CSPAP), and design a professional growth plan.
Pre / Co requisites: HPE 489 requires prerequisites of HPE 205, HPE 206, HPE 300, HPE 304, HPE 305, and HPE 403 with a grade of C or better and Teacher Candidacy. All field clearances required and successful completion of Praxis II test.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HPE 490. Student Teaching - Secondary. 6 Credits.

Within this course the goal is to immerse teacher candidates into the world of public school education and challenge them to apply both content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge within the elementary and secondary school setting. It focuses on developing teacher candidates' oral communication skills. Teacher candidates will specifically be challenged to design and effectively deliver both skills-based health education and physical education instruction. Student teaching will emphasize their ability to: differentiate instruction, design developmentally appropriate learning progressions, integrate technology, assess student learning, demonstrate proficient oral communication skills, advocate for health and physical education, design and implement a wellness intervention based on the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) initiative, construct a professionalism project, and design a professional growth plan.
Pre / Co requisites: HPE 490 requires prerequisites of HPE 205, HPE 206, HPE 300, HPE 304, HPE 305, and HPE 403 and Teacher Candidacy. All field clearances needed and successful completion of Praxis II test.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

INM

INM 243. Creativity & Improvisation. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on developing students' oral communication skills. Improvisation is at the genesis of all creative work. Throughout the history of music, the definitions of improvisation and how it operates within a musical realm have gone through a variety of changes and upheavals. This course explores creativity and improvisation in the foundational setting of music.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

INM 443. Building Your Career in Music. 3 Credits.

This course empowers students to build their career in music by bridging the gap between their academic study and the professional world though performance, communication and ethical decision-making. It is focused on developing communication skills as well as ethical problem-seeing and problem-solving in the music performance and elective studies degrees.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

ITA

ITA 302. Italian Conversation and Culture. 3 Credits.

This is a conversation course with intensive interaction to develop proficiency in listening comprehension and speaking ability. Furthermore, the aim of this course is to review and study some of the more complex grammatical and syntactical structures of the language, to review and expand Italian vocabulary, and to practice them in context and in conversation.
Pre / Co requisites: ITA 302 requires a prerequisite of ITA 202.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

JRN

JRN 305. Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on developing students' oral communication skills. In this course, students will conduct a group presentation on a movement in documentary film, deliver a persuasive oral "pitch" for their documentary film idea, and present a short audiovisual tutorial on a specific Adobe film editing technique for their peers. They will also demonstrate the importance of voice technique by employing voice-over narrative and storytelling in their final documentary film projects. In class, students will practice conducting interviews on and off camera and discuss how documentary films are developed from the idea stages to their final production.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

LAN

LAN 150. Lovely Accents: The World's Vocal Tapestry. 3 Credits.

Accents are a big part of what makes us human. Nothing showcases more vividly the vocal tapestry stitched and reflected in our voices like accents do. This course introduces students to the study of the way people around the world sound when they speak. Why do people have accents? Is it true that each person has an accent? Have accents always existed? What causes us to perceive some accents as "cool", and other accents less so? Can someone get rid of their accent? Should they? The course presents a general survey of human accents around the world. The course also discusses people's attitudes to accents different than those of their own.
Gen Ed Attribute: Humanities Distributive Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

LIN

LIN 332. Phonetics and Phonology. 3 Credits.

Introduction to the basic concepts of phonetic and phonological analysis in the world's languages. The aim of this course is to provide students with theoretical and practical skills in the scientific description and explanation of language sound systems. Areas covered include: the production and perception of sounds; the gestural organization of speech and theories of speech perception; the physiological and acoustic description of sounds; the IPA transcription system; and basic principles of phonological contrast, alternation and contrastive feature representation. It also covers applications of phonetics and phonology to other areas of linguistics: typology; sociophonetics; and historical linguistics; and the basics of phonetics and phonology in sign languages.
Pre / Co requisites: LIN 332 requires a prerequisite of LIN 230/ENG 230 or LAN 327 or introductory linguistics coursework at another university.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

LIT

LIT 338. Restoration and 18th Century Drama. 3 Credits.

British drama from the reopening of the theaters in 1660 to 1800.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

LNC

LNC 106. Global Fantasy Fiction. 3 Credits.

In this introductory class, students engage with a broad range of global fantasy fiction and film. In a technology-saturated world, humans often crave a sense of wonder and seek out hope in the unexplainable. They imagine fantasy worlds to satisfy this need, stretch their imagination, and expand their range of expression. Topics may include epic struggles between right and wrong, schools for magic, and a wide range of fantastic creatures. At the same time, students will connect these stories back to reality to explore the role of fantasy in describing complex emotions, troublesome events, and the lived effects of oppression and injustice. All materials available in English.
Gen Ed Attribute: Humanities Distributive Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

MAT

MAT 401. History of Mathematics. 3 Credits.

This course will cover selected topics from the history of mathematics. Many great mathematicians will be studied including Hippocrates, Euclid, Archimedes, Heron, Cardano, Newton, the Bernoulli Brothers, Euler, Gauss, and others. Mathematics problems will be approached using the methods and knowledge of the era studied. A solid background in undergraduate mathematics is required.
Pre / Co requisites: MAT 401 requires a prerequisite of a C or better in MAT 261.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

MAT 455. Industrial Mathematics Practicum. 3 Credits.

This is a case study, team problem-solving based course focused on solving real-world problems that can be modeled using discrete or continuous mathematics techniques and which emanate from industry. Ideally, the problems would be obtained from partnerships with local industry. Until these relationships develop, extant problems or problems arising in WCU faculty research (in math, physics, biology, geology, finance, etc.) will be used.
Pre / Co requisites: MAT 455 requires prerequisites of STA 319, MAT 425, and MAT 413 and any one of MAT 433 or MAT 427.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses MAT 455, MAT 555.

MAT 480. Capstone in Mathematics. 3 Credits.

This capstone experience surveys important concepts from the pure mathematics curriculum and prepares students to investigate problems that reach beyond the standard course material. The course emphasizes techniques of mathematical writing and speaking on topics selected from calculus, linear algebra, real and complex analysis, abstract algebra, and topology.
Pre / Co requisites: MAT 480 requires a prerequisite of C or higher in MAT 200, MAT 261, MAT 311, and at least one 400-level mathematics course.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

MDC

MDC 308. Multimedia Performance. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to introduce the student to both the theory and practice of professional performance across multiple platforms, including social media, mediated public presentation sites, and interviewing.
Pre / Co requisites: MDC 308 requires prerequisites of MDC 250 and MDC 251, or instructor/department chair permission.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

MDC 365. The Science and Media Connection: Producing and Communicating Science. 3 Credits.

This course is intended to prepare students to make multimedia products about fundamental scientific phenomena which can be used to educate and teach others. Through both theoretical and practical approaches, students learn skills and concepts that will enable them to complete a series of science-based creative projects and apply these skills toward future use.
Pre / Co requisites: MDC 365 requires a prerequisite of 60 credits.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses ESS/MDC 365, COM/ESS 565.

MDC 370. Event Production Using Media. 3 Credits.

Producing a large event requires strategic leadership to coordinate multiple stakeholders to achieve concrete goals. The media play a variety of roles in this complex production process. This course considers application of theory and research to the practical problems of envisioning and executing events on a larger scale using a variety of mediated forms in different supporting roles. Students learn how to make a persuasive pitch about media use to different audiences.
Pre / Co requisites: MDC 370 requires prerequisites of MDC 250 and MDC 251.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

MDC 375. Communicating Through Risk and Crisis. 3 Credits.

Explores the challenges of risk and crisis communication before, during and after high profile events. The course emphasizes the practical and theoretical applications of media strategies used by companies, organizations, and governmental bodies before, during, and after crisis situations. The course focuses on the issues relevant to communicating risk through both new and traditional media strategies as well as planning and executing crisis communications and recovery plans. The course also introduces students to ethical accountability and informed decision making during crisis situations. Cases discussed will examine risk and crisis situations in business, political, educational and non-profit settings.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

MGP

MGP 220. Field Experience: Middle Level Environment. 3 Credits.

The goal of this course is to connect educational theories and current ideas in education, to what is happening in the classroom, and to begin thinking about how to create a positive learning community for all learners. This course bridges theory, philosophy and real classroom experiences (field). Field clearances required.
Pre / Co requisites: MGP 220 requires a prerequisite of EDP 201.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

MGP 410. Student Teaching. 6 Credits.

A semester-long, full-time field experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars are required.
Pre / Co requisites: MGP 410 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy, field clearances, and all coursework required in the major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

MGP 411. Student Teaching. 6 Credits.

A semester-long, full-time field experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars are required.
Pre / Co requisites: MGP 411 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy, field clearances, and all coursework required in the major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

MGT

MGT 499. Business Policy and Strategy. 3 Credits.

This School of Business capstone course requires all business majors to integrate and apply multidisciplinary knowledge and skills in actively formulating improved business strategies and plans. Case method predominates, presentations, and written reports are required.
Pre / Co requisites: MGT 499 requires prerequisites of BLA 201, FIN 325, MGT 200, and MKT 250 and a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

MHL

MHL 211. Music History II. 3 Credits.

A historical survey of music from 1600 to 1825. Analysis of appropriate genres, styles, forms, social contexts, aesthetics, and performance practices will be considered.
Pre / Co requisites: MHL 211 requires a prerequisite of C- or better in MHL 210.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

MHL 280. Western Art Music I. 3 Credits.

A historical survey from 1600 to 1825. Analysis of appropriate genres, styles, forms, social contexts, aesthetics, and performance practices are considered.
Pre / Co requisites: MHL 280 requires a prerequisite of C- or better in MHL 180.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

MKT

MKT 340. Personal Selling. 3 Credits.

The course is designed to introduce students to both the theory and practice of personal selling. In this course, students are required to conduct product demonstration, role plays, and sales-related writing assignments. This course emphasizes the need for salespeople to adapt their selling strategies to customer needs, buyer social styles, and relationship perspectives. Class sessions are featured by a complete discussion of how sale is made through effective oral communications.
Pre / Co requisites: MKT 340 requires a prerequisite of a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

MPT

MPT 431. Music Therapy Pre-Internship I. 3 Credits.

Course participants are expected to complete a music therapy fieldwork experience at an approved clinical site, accompanied by an ongoing clinical training seminar at West Chester University. This course is intended to develop a student's ability to think critically and analytically about the form and function inherent in the therapeutic process.
Pre / Co requisites: MPT 431 requires prerequisites of MPT 101, MPT 240, MPT 331, MPT 332, and MPT 333.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Spring.

MPT 432. Music Therapy Pre-Internship II. 3 Credits.

Course participants are expected to complete a music therapy fieldwork experience at an approved clinical site, accompanied by an ongoing clinical training seminar at West Chester University. This course is intended to develop a student's ability to think critically and analytically about the form and function inherent in the therapeutic process.
Pre / Co requisites: MPT 432 requires prerequisites of MPT 101, MPT 240, MPT 331, MPT 332, MPT 333, and MPT 431.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall.

MUE

MUE 431. Student Teaching I. 6 Credits.

A 7-week-long, full-time first capstone teaching experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars required.
Pre / Co requisites: MUE 431 requires prerequisites of (MUE 310, MUE 322, and MUE 324) or MUE 332, and Teacher Candidacy.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

MUE 432. Student Teaching II. 6 Credits.

A 7-week-long, full-time second capstone teaching experience. In a contrasting placement from MUE 431, the student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars required.
Pre / Co requisites: MUE 432 requires a prerequisite of MUE 431.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

NSG

NSG 239. Preparing Students for Incivility, Bullying & Lateral Violence in the Workplace. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to prepare nursing students and new graduate nurses' education for encounters with incivility, bullying, and lateral violence in the workplace. Course content will include reviewing the personal and professional impact of incivility, bullying, and lateral violence. It will also include how incivility, bullying, and lateral violence influences patient care, professional self-esteem, self-worth, and physical and emotional health. Current nursing position statements, policies, and protections will be explored. Resiliency and self-care skills will be taught along with training in conflict resolution and professional communication to help empower students to address incivility, bullying, and lateral violence in the workplace. Orem's Self-Care Theory will serve as the theoretical framework for the course.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

NSG 367. Nursing Implications of Drug Interaction. 3 Credits.

The student will be introduced to essential pharmacological principles and concepts. The nursing process will provide the framework by which students will apply these principles and concepts to situations in a variety of health care settings.
Pre / Co requisites: NSG 367 requires prerequisites of BIO 269, NSG 212, and NSL 212.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

NSG 432. Health Information, Technology, and Quality Improvement. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to introduce the nursing student to informatics tools that are currently being utilized in healthcare to ensure safe and quality care. Electronic Health Records (EHR), telehealth, personal reference management software, Evidence-Based Practice (EBP), and HIPAA will be emphasized.
Pre / Co requisites: NSG 432 requires a prerequisite of admission to the RN-to-BSN program.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

NSG 434. Nursing Leadership & Management in Today's Healthcare Environment. 3 Credits.

This course prepares the BSN nurse for the challenges of nursing leadership and management with a concentration on issues that currently impact the healthcare environment. BSN students are prepared to apply management theories, organizational behavior theories, and leadership styles that are relevant to the practice of nursing management. BSN students complete the course with leadership skills in maintaining best practices and standards of care as well as the ability to appropriately interact with the healthcare team in future work settings.
Pre / Co requisites: NSG 434 requires a prerequisite of admission to the RN-to-BSN program and a corequisite of NSG 435.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

NSG 456. Interprofessional Simulation. 3 Credits.

The primary objective of this course is to examine the interrelationship of various healthcare professions through simulation activities. In this course, students will examine the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to establish effective teamwork across healthcare disciplines. Teamwork has been found to be one of the key initiatives within patient safety that can transform the culture of healthcare delivery. Patient safety requires effective communication and other teamwork skills to deliver quality healthcare and to prevent medical errors, patient injury, and harm. To address this, health sciences students will explore a team-based, interdisciplinary, integrative approach to healthcare delivery through online self-study, simulation, debriefing, and self-reflection. Speaking emphasis skills will be assessed during performance of case presentations in simulations and analytical oral interpretations of the performance in debriefing. Students will examine strategies that enhance collaboration, communication, and patient safety, leading to integration of various perspectives into a unified framework of healthcare delivery.
Pre / Co requisites: NSG 456 requires completion of 60 credits in the Communication Sciences and Disorders, Nursing, or Nutrition major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Summer.
Cross listed courses NSG 456, NTD 456, SLP 456.

NSL

NSL 212. Health Assessment and the Fundamentals of Nursing. 3 Credits.

This course provides the nursing student with skills in physical and psychosocial assessment of adult clients. The course also assists in the development and demonstration of the fundamental skills in nursing to include a checking of competence for all skills necessary to begin clinical practicums.
Pre / Co requisites: NSL 212 requires prerequisites of BIO 100, BIO 259, BIO 269, CHE 107 and CRL 107, and corequisite of NSG 212. Must have composite GPA of 2.75 in these prerequisite courses.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring & Summer.

NTD

NTD 320. Strategies in Dietetics Education. 3 Credits.

Students will experience the practical study of the theories of teaching and learning, health behavior change, lesson planning, and educational strategies as they relate to the field of dietetics. As nutrition educators, it is crucial to develop superb written and oral presentation skills, and to understand how to find and then delineate evidence-based nutrition information to the general public. As such, this course is designed to develop oral communication skills to be a most effective nutrition educator. Presentation preparation and delivery will be covered extensively in this course.
Pre / Co requisites: NTD 320 requires a prerequisite of NTD 309.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

NTD 409. Professional Skills in Dietetics. 3 Credits.

This course will focus on the development of nutrition counseling, oral and written communication, and media and skills. A familiarization with dietetics-related professional organizations, graduate school opportunities, and dietetic internships will be provided. Assistance with the dietetic internship and graduate school application process will be given. This course aims to provide students with the oral, written and technical skills necessary for effective client and public education. Specifically, practical experience in the classroom and in the field will help the student focus on improving skills in client interviewing and counseling, writing, and in designing and delivering a presentation.
Pre / Co requisites: NTD 409 requires a prerequisite NTD 309.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

NTD 425. Entrepreneurial Nutrition Management. 3 Credits.

The course applies entrepreneurial thinking to different foodservice and nutrition business models and how they innovate and take risks to introduce new products and services. With the triple bottom-line in mind, the course examines perspectives through social, environmental, and financial frameworks. Students will analyze the main characteristics of entrepreneurs, notably their ability to imagine changes that will impact the foodservice industry. This course will engage students through lectures, experiential learning opportunities, guest speakers, case studies, readings, individual, and group collaboration. Topics explored will include current trends in the marketplace, analyzing the industry employing the Gaps Model, creating business models, and products and service development. Students will also learn about and utilize social media as future entrepreneurs and managing sustainability.
Pre / Co requisites: NTD 425 requires a prerequisite of NTD 416.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall.

NTD 444. Lifestyle Nutrition Practicum. 3 Credits.

This course is a required course in the "Lifestyle Nutrition" concentration. It is a capstone course and should be taken senior year. This course aims to provide students with the oral, written and technical skills necessary for effective client and public education. Specifically, practical experience in the classroom and in the field will help the student focus on improving skills in client interviewing and counseling, writing for the lay public, and in designing and delivering a presentation to an audience.
Pre / Co requisites: NTD 444 requires prerequisites of NTD 309 and NTD 404.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Spring.

NTD 456. Interprofessional Simulation. 3 Credits.

The primary objective of this course is to examine the interrelationship of various healthcare professions through simulation activities. In this course, students will examine the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to establish effective teamwork across healthcare disciplines. Teamwork has been found to be one of the key initiatives within patient safety that can transform the culture of healthcare delivery. Patient safety requires effective communication and other teamwork skills to deliver quality healthcare and to prevent medical errors, patient injury, and harm. To address this, health sciences students will explore a team-based, interdisciplinary, integrative approach to healthcare delivery through online self-study, simulation, debriefing, and self-reflection. Speaking emphasis skills will be assessed during performance of case presentations in simulations and analytical oral interpretations of the performance in debriefing. Students will examine strategies that enhance collaboration, communication, and patient safety, leading to integration of various perspectives into a unified framework of healthcare delivery.
Pre / Co requisites: NTD 456 requires completion of 60 credits in the Communication Sciences and Disorders, Nursing, or Nutrition major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Summer.
Cross listed courses NSG 456, NTD 456, SLP 456.

PHY

PHY 205. Cellular and Molecular Biophysics. 3 Credits.

This course draws on concepts and tools from physics, biology, and chemistry to understand how energy is transformed into order in living systems. This will require students to consider the roles evolution, polymer physics, and chemistry have played in shaping the machinery of life. This course is aimed at students from physics, biology, and chemistry who are interested in stretching themselves beyond disciplinary boundaries.
Pre / Co requisites: PHY 205 requires prerequisites of PHY 130 or PHY 170, CHE 103, and one of MAT 143, MAT 145, or MAT 161; and a corequisite of PHY 140 or PHY 180.
Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

PHY 310. Intermediate Physics Lab: Experimental Methods & Scientific Communication. 3 Credits.

A lecture and laboratory course designed to familiarize students with experimental physics and scientific communication. Students conduct experiments, analyze data, and come to evidence-based conclusions. In addition, explicit instruction occurs on writing and presenting in the discipline of physics. Students write a scientific report on an experiment and present their findings to the department.
Pre / Co requisites: PHY 310 requires prerequisites of PHY 240 and PHY 275.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

PHY 455. Advanced Physics Lab: Experimental Methods & Scientific Communication. 3 Credits.

This course is a continuation of PHY 310, a lecture and laboratory course designed to familiarize students with modern physics laboratory equipment and practices through a series of experiments. Students write three research papers and give one research talk describing the experiments and their results in a style consistent with scientific conventions.
Pre / Co requisites: PHY 455 requires a prerequisite of PHY 310.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

PLN

PLN 322. Land Development Controls. 3 Credits.

An insight into the "why" and "how" of land development, emphasizing the role of local government in zoning, subdivision regulation, and other land regulations.
Pre / Co requisites: PLN 322 requires a prerequisite of PLN 214.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

PSC

PSC 317. Contemporary International Relations. 3 Credits.

Recent issues and problems with special emphasis on superpower behavior around the world. Also, third world revolutions, international terrorism, human rights, international law and the United Nations, and the changing international economic order.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

PSC 322. Public Opinion, Media and Politics. 3 Credits.

This course examines the dynamics of public opinion and public policy. It also closely examines the nature of public opinion measurement and the vital role the national and international media are playing in forming and changing public opinion. Various theories about media effects are analyzed.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

PSC 356. US Social Policy. 3 Credits.

This course will focus on domestic public policies, particularly policies and policy problems related to issues of inequality within the United States.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

PSY

PSY 215. Liberation Psychology: Sustaining Community Change. 3 Credits.

This class will take a Liberation Psychology approach to examining the cross section of societal forces and our individual lives as "community change workers" such that we can sustain ourselves and those we might work with professionally and in the community. Students will be introduced to a toolkit of practices for sustaining their own resilience, well-being, and engagement in community change framed critically to combat oppression and internalized oppression (ranging from Cognitive Behavioral self-help tools to mindfulness, peer support to movement building, and more). Students will gain in-depth practice in using active listening, reflection, and interpersonal communication as one way to process the effects of oppression. Students will also have opportunities to learn presentation skills, including final projects that will allow them to explore in more depth one or more of the strategies studied by formulating a model of sustaining self for the future, a model that aims to be aware of the critical perspectives on psychology and structural injustices studied in this course.
Pre / Co requisites: PSY 215 requires a prerequisite of RUX 110 or YES 250 or PSY 100 or PSY 120.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses PSY 215, RUX 215.

PSY 400. Senior Seminar in Psychology. 3 Credits.

In-depth study of advanced topics in psychology. Students will prepare and present written and oral presentations describing and analyzing current issues in psychology.
Pre / Co requisites: PSY 400 requires prerequisites of PSY 245 and PSY 246.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

RUX

RUX 215. Liberation Psychology: Sustaining Community Change. 3 Credits.

This class will take a Liberation Psychology approach to examining the cross section of societal forces and our individual lives as "community change workers" such that we can sustain ourselves and those we might work with professionally and in the community. Students will be introduced to a toolkit of practices for sustaining their own resilience, well-being, and engagement in community change framed critically to combat oppression and internalized oppression (ranging from Cognitive Behavioral self-help tools to mindfulness, peer support to movement building, and more). Students will gain in-depth practice in using active listening, reflection, and interpersonal communication as one way to process the effects of oppression. Students will also have opportunities to learn presentation skills, including final projects that will allow them to explore in more depth one or more of the strategies studied by formulating a model of sustaining self for the future, a model that aims to be aware of the critical perspectives on psychology and structural injustices studied in this course.
Pre / Co requisites: RUX 215 requires a prerequisite of RUX 110 or YES 250 or PSY 100 or PSY 120.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses PSY 215, RUX 215.

SED

SED 200. Learning Environments and Field Experience in Secondary Schools. 3 Credits.

This course builds off of SED 100, as well as introduces the field experience to secondary students. The field experience will be 25 hours in local classrooms. Students will begin examining the connections between adolescent development, 7-12 classrooms, and the teacher's role in facilitating learning in this environment. This course includes a 25-hour field experience. Working with Teacher Candidate Services, students will be placed, in interdisciplinary pairs, in local middle and junior high schools. This field will allow students to begin putting some of the knowledge they have gained from EDP 280 into practice in an actual classroom setting.
Pre / Co requisites: SED 200 requires prerequisites of SED 100 and field clearances, and a prerequisite or corequisite of EDP 280.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

SED 411. Student Teaching Sec - 1st Half. 6 Credits.

A semester long, full-time field experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars are required.
Pre / Co requisites: SED 411 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy and all coursework required in the major. Field clearances required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

SED 412. Student Teaching Sec - 2nd Half. 6 Credits.

A semester long, full-time field experience. The student teacher assumes increasing responsibility in the classroom, as demonstrated by effective methods for the planning, delivering, and reflecting on instruction. Weekly seminars are required.
Pre / Co requisites: SED 412 requires prerequisites of Teacher Candidacy and all coursework required in the major. Field clearances required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

SLP

SLP 456. Interprofessional Simulation. 3 Credits.

The primary objective of this course is to examine the interrelationship of various healthcare professions through simulation activities. In this course, students will examine the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to establish effective teamwork across healthcare disciplines. Teamwork has been found to be one of the key initiatives within patient safety that can transform the culture of healthcare delivery. Patient safety requires effective communication and other teamwork skills to deliver quality healthcare and to prevent medical errors, patient injury, and harm. To address this, health sciences students will explore a team-based, interdisciplinary, integrative approach to healthcare delivery through online self-study, simulation, debriefing, and self-reflection. Speaking emphasis skills will be assessed during performance of case presentations in simulations and analytical oral interpretations of the performance in debriefing. Students will examine strategies that enhance collaboration, communication, and patient safety, leading to integration of various perspectives into a unified framework of healthcare delivery.
Pre / Co requisites: SLP 456 requires completion of 60 credits in the Communication Sciences and Disorders, Nursing, or Nutrition major.
Gen Ed Attribute: Interdisciplinary Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Summer.
Cross listed courses NSG 456, NTD 456, SLP 456.

SMD

SMD 450. Capstone in Sports Medicine. 3 Credits.

This course is one of the final courses for students in the program. It is designed to develop students' oral communication skills. The purpose of this course is to demonstrate achievement of the program level learning outcomes and engage in self-reflection and self-evaluation. Learners will review, assess, and then apply many of the concepts taught during the undergraduate program through the creation of a portfolio and senior capstone project. The portfolio will also serve as a tangible artifact that houses acquired knowledge.
Pre / Co requisites: SMD 450 requires a prerequisite of majors only.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

SOC

SOC 309. Sustainable WCU & Beyond. 3 Credits.

Project-based and research-driven sustainable action. Grounded in the sociological perspective, students will work together to advance sustainable initiatives at WCU and/or in the broader community.
Pre / Co requisites: SOC 309 requires a prerequisite of SUS 100, SOC 100, or SOC 245.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

SOC 366. Gender, Labor and Globalization. 3 Credits.

This course uses sociological and women's and gender studies theories to understand, analyze, and present on domestic work, care work, sex work, and reproductive work as invisible and gendered labor that contributes to global economies. Through critical reading, writing, discussion, and speaking assignments, students will learn how to analyze and speak about how the experiences of international women workers change mainstream definitions of gender, labor, family, immigration, and globalization.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses SOC 366, WOS 366.

SPA

SPA 302. Advanced Spanish Grammar and Conversation. 3 Credits.

Additional review and mastery of Spanish grammar, with special emphasis on sentence structures and stylistics, along with intensive interaction to develop proficiency in listening comprehension and speaking ability. This course is intended for non-native speakers of Spanish. Heritage language learners should consider SPA 303. SPA 301 and SPA 302 can be taken simultaneously. Students may only receive credit for SPA 302 or SPA 303 but not both.
Pre / Co requisites: SPA 302 requires a prerequisite of SPA 202 or SPA 250.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

SPA 303. Spanish for Heritage Speakers. 3 Credits.

This course is tailored to meet the specific needs of heritage speakers of the language. In many cases, this means students who grew up speaking Spanish at home but did not attend school in the language. In this course, students build on their already existing knowledge and expand their command of the four linguistic skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) while studying authentic cultural materials. Interested students are encouraged to consult the Department before enrolling for accurate placement. Non-native speakers should consider SPA 302. SPA 301 and SPA 303 may be taken simultaneously. Students may only receive credit for SPA 302 or SPA 303 but not both.
Pre / Co requisites: SPA 303 requires a prerequisite of SPA 202 or SPA 250 or permission of the department.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

SPK

SPK 208. Public Speaking. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to introduce the student to both the theory and the practice of public speaking in a variety of communication contexts. Students will develop the skills necessary to use communication as a problem-solving tool in the community. Special emphasis is placed on the student's performance as a sender and receiver of messages directed at social action.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

SPK 230. Business and Professional Speech Communication. 3 Credits.

Practice in effective speaking and listening. Interpersonal communication in the business and professional setting, including reports, sales, and pitch presentations, policy speeches, group dynamics, and speaking.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

SWO

SWO 495. Social Work Senior Seminar I. 3 Credits.

Integration of field and classroom experiences in discussing the application of the generalist model to the helping process. Emphasis is on all levels of practice (individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social Work majors only.
Pre / Co requisites: SWO 495 requires a prerequisite of SWO 395 and a corequisite of SWO 450.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

THA

THA 103. Acting I. 3 Credits.

A course designed to introduce the basic skills and techniques needed by the developing actor to create successfully a character for performance on stage.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arts Distributive Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

THA 203. Acting II. 3 Credits.

This is a course designed to give the student a deeper appreciation regarding the creation of character in a theatrical context. The student will learn to employ several techniques to create a character that is physically grounded and emotional truthful. By exploring the use of personal resources, application of circumstances and real life observation, and detailed physical examination, the student will be able to apply the artistic imagination in the development of characters for performance with particular emphasis on plays from the modern and contemporary cannon.
Pre / Co requisites: THA 203 requires a prerequisite of THA 103.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

THA 216. Fundamentals of Design. 3 Credits.

The exploration of multiple elements of production design to create a foundation of communication for future designers, technicians, actors, directors, and stage managers. Students will learn how to manipulate design principles to support and enhance theatrical productions. In a collaborative, interactive learning environment, students will gain comfort with the creative process and learn to present creative ideas in a manner consistent with expectations of the theatre industry.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

WOS

WOS 227. Let's Talk About Race. 3 Credits.

This course is an introduction to the study and critical discussion of race within the field of Women's and Gender Studies. In particular, students will reflect on and learn skills about effective communicating on and around matters of race, race relations, and racial justice. With resources ranging from scholars in the field to public intellectuals leading public discussions regarding race, students will be exposed to resources from a range of voices in order to hone their own skills in the discussion/understanding of systems of power and domination as they relate to race. The class primarily serves as a means to sharpen communication skills, applicable in multiple social environments. Students will learn through a Women's and Gender Studies framework that asserts that the understanding of multifaceted identities is critical in understanding the dynamics of race and gender as they relate to systems of power, governance, violence, and subjugation.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

WOS 240. How to Do Things with Feminism. 3 Credits.

This course is an introduction to the study of Women's Gender Studies as an interdisciplinary field. In particular, students will reflect on the academic, professional, and community activist dimensions of the field. The course offers an overview of the development of Women's and Gender Studies within the academy and ongoing collaboration with and tensions between academic feminism and feminist activism. Students will become familiar with the methodological and theoretical tools used by feminist researchers and activists. Beyond feminist methods and theories, students will also become familiar with the professional and academic side of WGS: they will discuss the wide range of women's and gender-focused journals, professional organizations, and conferences in their subfields/disciplines. They will use an intersectional feminist framework to think through feminism(s), feminist praxis, and in particular how each of them exists in relation to power via gender and race. The ultimate goal is that they will gain the foundation for fostering feminist skills in order to create a more just and equitable society.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

WOS 366. Gender, Labor and Globalization. 3 Credits.

This course uses sociological and women's and gender studies theories to understand, analyze, and present on domestic work, care work, sex work, and reproductive work as invisible and gendered labor that contributes to global economies. Through critical reading, writing, discussion, and speaking assignments, students will learn how to analyze and speak about how the experiences of international women workers change mainstream definitions of gender, labor, family, immigration, and globalization.
Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses SOC 366, WOS 366.

WOS 381. The Forgotten Queens of Islam. 3 Credits.

Students will learn about prominent women in Islamic history, with a focus on the medieval period. Students will learn to read historical texts "against the grain" through the lens of feminist history.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses HIS 381, WOS 381.