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2016-2017 Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
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Course Numbering
The College of Wooster uses a five-digit course numbering system. The first three digits indicate the primary course number. The next two digits are the secondary course number and indicate whether there is a special focus for the course. For example:
The first letters are the department or program abbreviation. The next three digits are the primary course number (101 is the primary course number for all Introduction to Historial Study courses). The last two digits are the secondary course number. These two digits indicate that the special focus for this HIST 101 course is The History of Islam. A course with a given three-digit primary course number can only be taken once for credit unless specifically indicated otherwise by the department.
The following policy has been used in assigning primary course numbers:
- 100-level courses are usually introductory courses; some 100-level courses do have prerequisites, and students are advised to consult the description for each course.
- 200-level courses are usually beyond the introductory level, although many 200-level courses are open to first-year students and to majors and non-majors.
- 300-level courses are seminars and courses primarily for majors but open to other students with the consent of the instructor.
- The following numbers are for Independent Study: I.S. 40100 (Junior Independent Study), I.S. 45100 and I.S. 45200 (Senior Independent Study).
In addition to the regular course offerings, many departments offer individual tutorials under the number 40000 and internships under 41000. On occasion, departments will offer a course on a special topic as approved by the Educational Policy Committee, designated 19900, 29900, or 39900.
Abbreviation
In keeping with the general education requirements of the College’s curriculum
(see Degree Requirements ), course listings employ the following abbreviations:
W Writing Intensive (W† indicates that not all sections are Writing Intensive)
C Studies in Cultural Difference
R Religious Perspectives
Q Quantitative Reasoning
AH Learning Across the Disciplines: Arts and Humanities
HSS Learning Across the Disciplines: History and Social Sciences
MNS Learning Across the Disciplines: Mathematical and Natural Sciences
Except where otherwise noted, all courses carry one course credit.
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Physics |
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PHYS 23000 - Computational Physics Course Credit: 1.25
(CHPY)
A project-based introduction to computer simulation that develops increasingly sophisticated numerical models of physical systems in parallel with proficiency in either a modern computer language like C++ or in computational software like Mathematica. Three hours per week plus laboratory. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 ; or permission of instructor
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PHYS 30100 - Mechanics Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
Viscous forces, harmonic motion, rigid bodies, gravitation and small oscillations in Newtonian mechanics, Lagrange and Hamilton formulations, computer simulation and numerical methods. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS-11000, MATH 21200 , and PHYS 20200 ; or permission of instructor Annually.
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PHYS 30200 - Thermal Physics Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
Classical and quantum treatment of problems in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 (Previously PHYS-20500).
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PHYS 30400 - Electricity and Magnetism Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
Introduction to classical field theory and Maxwell’s equations of electromagnetism. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 11200 , PHYS 20200 , and MATH 21200 Annually.
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PHYS 30500 - Particle Physics Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
An introduction to the concepts and techniques of nuclear and elementary particle physics. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 (Previously PHYS-20500)
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PHYS 31000 - General Relativity Course Credit: 1
A detailed introduction to relativistic gravity, gravity as spacetime curvature, the Einstein field equations, and geodesic motion. Applications include the perihelion precession of Mercury, the deflection of starlight by the sun, black holes, gravity waves, and the Big Bang expansion of the universe. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 (Previously PHYS-20500).
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PHYS 31500 - Nonlinear Dynamics
An introduction to the study of systems described by nonlinear difference or differential equations using both qualitative and numerical techniques. Topics include stability and bifurcations, extreme sensitivity to initial conditions or chaos, strange attractors and fractals. Three hours per week.
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PHYS 32000 - Astrophysics Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
A quantitative introduction to astronomy and astrophysics. Topics include classical astronomy; stellar structure, stellar atmospheres, and stellar evolution; galactic structure, cosmology, and cosmogony. Emphasis will be on quantitative application of physical theory to astronomical phenomena. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 (Previously PHYS-20500).
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PHYS 32500 - Condensed Matter Physics Course Credit: 1
An introduction to the physics of solid and liquid matter and the relationship between fundamental atomic interactions and observable macroscopic properties. Topics include crystal structure, lattice vibrations, electronic properties, semiconductors, and mechanical properties. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 (Previously PHYS-20500).
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PHYS 33000 - Modern Optics Course Credit: 1
An introductory course in the basic concepts, principles, and theories of modern optics, including lasers. Topics include wave optics, light and matter interactions, basic laser principles, holography, and specific optical systems. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 (Previously PHYS-20500)
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PHYS 35000 - Quantum Mechanics Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
A rigorous introduction to the formalism and interpretation of microworld physics. Probability amplitudes, interference and superposition, identical particles and spin, 2-state systems, Schrodinger evolution, applications. Three hours per week. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20100 , PHYS 20200 , and MATH 21200
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PHYS 39900 - Selected Topics Course Credit: 1
Advanced Quantum Mechanics, Quantum Field Theory, and others offered when sufficient student interest is shown.
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PHYS 40000 - Tutorial Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
May be repeated. Annually.
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PHYS 40100 - Independent Study Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
Laboratory investigations in Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Optics, Quantum, Electricity and Magnetism. Techniques of statistics and data analysis, library and literature research, computer interfacing and simulation are explored. One hour per week plus two laboratories. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 20200 (Previously PHYS-20800), and PHYS 30100 PHYS 30200 or PHYS 30400 Annually.
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PHYS 41000 - Internship Course Credit: 0.25
Maximum Credit: 1
A structured, usually off-campus experience, in which a student extends classroom knowledge to a work position within a community, business, or governmental organization. Student interns work and learn under the joint guidance of a host organization supervisor and a College of Wooster mentor. The student must arrange the internship in advance through the appropriate department or program. No more than six internships, and a maximum of four Wooster course credits, will count toward graduation. The form for registering for an internship and the Internship Learning Plan are available in the office of the Registrar. May be repeated.
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PHYS 45100 - Independent Study Thesis - Semester One Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
The first semester of the Senior Independent Study project, in which each student engages in creative and independent research guided by a faculty mentor and which culminates in a thesis and an oral examination in the second semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 40100 Annually.
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PHYS 45200 - Independent Study Thesis - Semester Two Course Credit: 1
(CHPY)
The second semester of the Senior Independent Study project, which culminates in the thesis and an oral examination. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 45100 Annually.
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Political Science |
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PSCI 11000 - Introduction to United States National Politics Course Credit: 1
An introduction to the major governmental institutions and processes in the United States, and the political forces that continue to shape them. Annually. [HSS]
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PSCI 12000 - Introduction to International Relations Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
An introductory level course that focuses on key actors, issues, theories, and political dynamics that shape world politics. The course explores opposing trends toward integration (globalization) and disintegration (conflict) in international politics. Theories are tested in case studies of particular regions, problems, and historical moments. Annually. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 13000 - Introduction to Contemporary Political Ideologies Course Credit: 1
An introductory level course that focuses on the comparative analysis of competing ideologies that have dominated Western politics in the twentieth century: liberalism, libertarianism, conservatism, democratic socialism, communism, anarchism, and fascism. The second part of the course analyzes several of the newer ideologies that are transforming politics in the twenty-first century: minority liberation, liberation theology, gay liberation, feminism, environmentalism, animal liberation, and religious fundamentalism. Annually. [HSS]
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PSCI 14000 - Introduction to Comparative Politics Course Credit: 1
This course introduces students to the basic concepts, tools, and theories of comparative politics. The main focus is on the emergence and development of major types of political systems and political institutions. Different political systems and institutions are systematically compared and analyzed in terms of how they respond to developmental tasks at different stages in the historical process. Annually. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 20200 - Environmental Policy Course Credit: 1
(ENVS)
Examines the theories and politics of the U.S. environmental movement and analyzes the process through which environmental policy is made. The first part of the course focuses on the contemporary environmental movement, the environmental critique of present policies, and their proposals for changing the way we think about and interact with the environment. The second part of the course focuses on the political process through which environmental policy is made and on the policy alternatives regarding such topics as air pollution and hazardous waste. [HSS]
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PSCI 20300 - Policy, Politics, and Social Change Course Credit: 1
Analyzes the nature of the policy-making process with an emphasis on the political interactions among the various individual and institutional actors involved at all levels in the U.S. federal system. It examines both the processes through which public policies evolve over time and the various social, economic, and political factors that influence the content of public policy. Both case studies of policy making and general models of the determinants of public policies are discussed. [HSS]
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PSCI 20500 - Urban Politics Course Credit: 1
(URBN)
An exploration of urban politics in the context of a federalist governmental structure and a private economic system. Special emphasis is given to the distribution of community power, racial and ethnic conflict, urban public policies, community development, and the economic development of cities. Annually. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 20600 - Political Parties and Elections Course Credit: 1
A systematic examination of elections and political parties focused on how well elections perform their representative function in the United States. [HSS]
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PSCI 20700 - Issues in United States Politics Course Credit: 1
A course focusing on a selected topic concerning U.S. politics. May be repeated. [HSS]
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PSCI 20711 - Public Opinion Course Credit: 1
A seminar focusing on a selected topic concerning U.S. politics. This course may be taken more than once.
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PSCI 20713 - Presidential Election 2016 Course Credit: 1
This course is part of a Wooster In program and will systematically examine Presidential elections in the United States and design collaborative research projects to study the national political party nominating conventions. During the summer 2016 field experience, students will travel to the Republican and Democratic national conventions to collect data to test their theories.
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PSCI 20714 - National Party Conventions Course Credit: 0.5
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PSCI 20715 - Immigration Politics and Policy Course Credit: 1
(LAST)
This course examines both the historical development of U.S. immigration law (immigration as policy) and how the rhetoric surrounding the issue influences public opinion (immigration as politics). The course also addresses key topics in the contemporary study of immigration including practices of transnationalism and immigrant political activism in an era of securitization and border militarization. A comparative approach will be used to provide a counterpoint to the U.S. case so that students understand the broader underpinnings of international migration flows. [HSS]
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PSCI 20716 - Civic Engagement & Political Particion Course Credit: 1
Examines what it means to be a citizen and the ways that individuals can be political engaged in the United States. The last line of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg address states “this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” Individuals are fundamentally entwined with the U.S. political system. This class examines what it means to be a citizen of the United States and the ways that individuals can be political engaged. We will start by questioning what we expect of citizens in the United States and the implications of these expectations for our government. We then will examine the levels of participation before focusing on factors that influence levels of political participation, from one’s socio-economic status to the homes where we grew up. We will also examine how levels of political participation are unequally distributed across the population in the United States. We extend our discussion of the foundations of political participation by studying two key components of civic society: trust and tolerance. Finally, we will examine how policies and what government does shape our engagement in politics. [HSS]
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PSCI 20717 - Politics of Inequality Course Credit: 1
A systematic examination of equality and inequality in the United States, examining the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to growing inequality. Thomas Jefferson inscribed equality into the ethos of the United States when he penned the words “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.” in the preamble of the Declaration of the Independence. Many of the most notable obstacles U.S. democracy as faced have dealt with the struggle to achieve greater equality. Inequality economically, socially, and political is a complex and interconnected phenomenon. How to we measure inequality? What has caused recent growth in inequality? What are the consequences of inequality? What are ways to reduce inequality? In this class, we will seek answers to these questions through reading scholarly and mainstream literature on inequality, in-depth discussion, and writing. [HSS]
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PSCI 20718 - Race and Ethnicity in U.S. Politics Course Credit: 1
[HSS]
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PSCI 20800 - Race and Power Course Credit: 1
(AFST)
The course will explore the role of race in the development of the American political system. The course will evaluate a number of competing theoretical explanations for racial dynamics of contemporary American politics and public policy. While primarily focusing on the United States, there will also be a comparative dimension to the course. Alternate years. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 21000 - Women, Power, and Politics Course Credit: 1
(WGSS)
A comprehensive examination of women as political actors, as candidates for political office, and as elected or appointed governmental officials in the United States. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 21100 - Congress Course Credit: 1
Examines the U.S. Congress as a representative and policy-making institution. Among topics included are the recruitment and selection process, the organization of Congress, Congressional procedures, the interaction of Congress with other American political institutions, and the impact of these aspects of Congress on public policies. [HSS]
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PSCI 21200 - Presidential Leadership in American Politics Course Credit: 1
(COMM)
The course considers the question of whether the contemporary presidency can provide the necessary leadership appropriate for effective national decision-making while preserving constitutional democratic accountability. Examines the various political factors that influence the quality of the decision-making process within the modern presidency. [HSS]
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PSCI 21400 - Constitutional Interpretation and Civil Liberties Course Credit: 1
Examines important political and theoretical questions regarding the rule of law, the nature of constitutional law, and the role of the Supreme Court in the U.S. system of government. The course focuses on these issues in the context of the interpretation and development of civil liberties, such as freedom of expression, freedom of religion, and the right to privacy. [HSS]
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PSCI 21501 - Topics in Constitutional Law and, Appellate Advocacy Course Credit: 1
(COMM)
Each year this course will focus on detailed analysis of two related constitutional questions that are presented in a hypothetical case problem. The selected constitutional questions will reflect important public policy issues that are currently being litigated in the lower courts, but have not yet reached the Supreme Court. Students will research the relevant authorities cited in the case problem, argue the case before a moot court, and learn to write analytical briefs, legal memoranda, and persuasive briefs. Annually. [W]
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PSCI 21600 - the Imperial Presidency and the Constitution Course Credit: 1
Examines the historical growth of presidential authority in the U.S. through an investigation of presidential prerogative powers and emergency presidential powers delegated by Congress. The course seeks to answer the question of whether the contemporary U.S. constitutional system (including the courts, Congress, and the public) is capable of limiting the powers of the presidency. Among the issues to be considered are: the use of executive orders, presidential war making authority, executive detention of enemies of the state, warrantless wiretapping, and the use of state secrecy. [HSS]
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PSCI 21700 - Media and Politics Course Credit: 1
A comprehensive analysis of the ways in which the mass media influence politics in the United States. Special attention is paid to the interaction between the media, citizens, and political campaigns. [HSS, W]
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PSCI 21800 - Political Psychology of Mass Behavior Course Credit: 1
An introduction to the field of political psychology, an interdisciplinary field that employs cognitive and social psychological theories to examine mass political behavior. The course focuses on United States politics and, specifically, on how ordinary citizens makes sense of their political world. [HSS]
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PSCI 21900 - the Voice of the People? Public Opinion and Voting Behavior Course Credit: 1
(COMM)
This course focuses on two ways in which ordinary citizens can have their voices heard in the political process: through public opinion and by casting their vote. We assess different explanations for (changes in) public opinion and electoral behavior and consider the extent to which these expressions of the public voice affect politics and policy. [HSS]
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PSCI 22100 - International Security Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
An examination of the changing realities of security in the 21st century. Topics include the defense policies of various states and their implications for international stability; the proliferation of nuclear weapons; international terrorism; theories of war; and the prospects for security through negotiation, cooperation, and international organization. [HSS]
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PSCI 22200 - Problems of the Global Community Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
A critical analysis of problems confronting the global community - such as population expansion, economic development, environmental degradation, and anarchy - and individual and collective efforts to cope with them. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22300 - United States Foreign Policy Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
A critical assessment of the development of United States foreign policy from World War II to the present; examines the key actors and institutions involved in the foreign policy-making process (the President, Congress, interest groups, bureaucracy, public opinion, etc.); and surveys contemporary foreign policy challenges. Annually. [HSS]
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PSCI 22400 - Comparative Foreign Policy Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This course analyzes foreign policy development in comparative perspective. It examines prominent theoretical perspectives and explores the behavior of different countries in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East; and in different issue areas, including national security policy, foreign economic policy, and environmental policy. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22500 - the United Nations System Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
An in-depth examination of the United Nations System, including historical background, organizational structure, procedures, and global problems handled. An extended Model United Nations simulation provides a detailed feel for the decision-making process involved in addressing issues through the United Nations. Alternate Years. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22600 - International Political Economy Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This course explores mutual relationships between politics and economics in the relations of states; political effects of economic disparities; foreign economic policies of states in trade, aid, investment, and debt management; the roles of international institutions in the global economy; policy implications. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22700 - Theories of International Relations Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This course examines the assumptions and implications of the major theories of international relations. Students will explore, compare, and debate the merits of contending theoretical explanations of international interactions, and explore how they might be applied to research and policymaking. Recommended for juniors. Annually. [HSS]
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PSCI 22800 - Nationalism and Interdependence Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This course explores the contrasting trends of fragmentation and integration in international relations by examining challenges to the predominance of sovereign states; including nations, regional and universal governmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and cultural interdependence. [HSS]
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PSCI 22900 - Issues in Int’l Relations Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
A course focusing on a selected topic concerning International Relations. May be repeated. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22909 - War and Peace on Film Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
The course addresses fundamental issues of international conflict, national security, and cooperation through the media of film, literature, and scholarly works. We will examine classic and contemporary themes in international security including: the origins of war, international terrorism, civil-military relations, peace studies, the soldier¹s journey, wartime experiences, national identity and conceptions of the ‘enemy other,’ and security in the post-9/11 era. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22910 - Political Leadership in Int’l Relations Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
Approaching the study of international relations from an individual level of analysis, this course investigates political leadership across different forms of political organization. Students will explore key debates on political leadership in international relations and engage in leadership analysis. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22911 - Global Environmental Politics Course Credit: 1
(ENVS, GLIS)
This course explores the theories and practice of global environmental politics and policy-making. Despite the pressing nature of our contemporary global environmental challenges, effective international cooperation on these issues has often proven difficult to achieve. In this course, we will study the practice of global environmental politics and policy-making. We will begin by exploring the central theories, concepts, and events related to governing the global environment. In the second part of the course, we will apply these foundations to the examination of contemporary challenges such as climate change, pollution, and environmental security. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 22913 - Foreign Policy Analysis Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This is a comprehensive course covering a variety of theories and techniques used in the study of foreign policy decision-making. Each week the course will cover a specific theory of decision-making and its application. Topics covered include rational choice, bounded rationality, operational code, leadership, public opinion, media, political institutions, and the development of a research project. Appropriate application of the theories will be discussed, analyzed, and critiqued. Students can expect to develop useful knowledge of foreign policy decision-making and techniques that can be used in their independent studies. Students will be expected to read various texts and journal articles, participate in online and class discussion, complete online exams, and write a research design paper. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 23100 - Modern Western Political Theory Course Credit: 1
A critical examination of the works of selected major theorists in the “modern” period which begins with Machiavelli and includes Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Hegel, John Stuart Mill, Harriet Taylor Mill, and Marx, among others. [HSS]
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PSCI 23200 - Knowledge and Power Course Credit: 1
A critical analysis of the philosophical underpinnings of the study of politics and of the complex connections between knowledge and power in contemporary political life. [HSS]
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PSCI 23400 - Contemporary Western Political Theory Course Credit: 1
A survey of major political and social theorists who have shaped twentieth century Western thought, such as Nietzsche, Weber, Freud, Woolf, Gadamer, Habermas, and Foucault, among others. [HSS]
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PSCI 23500 - Contemporary Feminist Political Theory
A critical analysis of selected contemporary feminist political theorists, including Davis, Eisenstein, Elshtain, Flax, Haraway, Hartstock, MacKinnon, O’Brien, and Watkins, among others.
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PSCI 23900 - Issues in Political Theory Course Credit: 1
A course focusing on a selected topic concerning Political Theory. May be repeated. [HSS]
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PSCI 23906 - American Political Thought Course Credit: 1
[HSS]
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PSCI 23908 - Pol. Theory in the International Arena Course Credit: 1
Studying political theory in the international arena means investigating the ways in which the development of international politics may be explained, understood and judged. It approaches these topics through theoretical and philosophical texts (rather than empirical, quantitative, or historical material). In the first unit, we will read classical political philosophy texts that address questions of inter-community, city-state and nation-state relations, which form the basis for many contemporary debates in international relations. In the second unit, we will examine major theories of the international system – such as realism, liberalism and various critical theories – and link them up to their classical influences. In the third unit, our task will be to examine several contemporary phenomena such as terrorism and human rights violations in light of the classical texts and major theories discussed. Contributions to theorizing international politics in the tradition of Western political theory will include examining the ideas of Thucydides, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Rousseau, Kant, and Marx. [HSS]
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PSCI 23909 - Language, Politics and Rhetoric Course Credit: 1
[HSS]
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PSCI 24400 - Politics in Developing Countries Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, LAST)
This course examines the main problems confronting developing countries, the political tools and strategies used for addressing them, and their relative success and failure given the constraints of the international economic and political order. The problems of developing countries are examined in the light of modernization, dependency, world system, political-cultural, and institutional theories and approaches, and cases from all the main parts of the developing world. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24600 - Peace Studies Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
An exploration of the numerous dimensions of violence present in the world and the variety of peace tools available to address this violence. Understanding of ways to build both negative and positive peace are bolstered through review of cases of violence. Annually. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24700 - Issues in Comparative Politics Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
A course focusing on a selected topic concerning Comparative Politics. May be repeated. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24710 - Large Scale Political Violence Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This course will introduce you to the study of large-scale political violence. Understanding why political violence occurs, how it is used, what its effects are, and how it can be countered, is crucial to a clear understanding of the problems facing states and non-state actors, as well as the dynamics of a conflict-ridden global environment. This material is often classified as a sub-field of both comparative politics and political sociology. We will cover numerous subjects, including: why non-state actors and states use violent means to pursue political ends, state use of repression, torture, death squads, state terrorism, riots, coups, revolutions, civil wars, communal conflict, violence by insurgents and terrorists and by counterinsurgencies, the use of violence to spoil peace settlements, and why states and non-state actors engage in atrocities against civilians. Be warned! - This course will be taught as a fully participatory upper level social science seminar. As a result, the following will be extremely helpful to your ability to succeed in this class: a background in political science, sociology, or history; a willingness to contribute as a full participant in our collective knowledge construction; and a willingness to slog through and try to wrap your mind around some pretty hefty and often upsetting readings! Students taking this course will be required to have read the book We Wish To Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed With Our Families; Stories From Rwanda prior to the start of class in the spring. TRIGGER WARNING: As the course description suggests, we will be covering some very difficult and often disturbing material this semester. I understand that this may cause some people mental anguish. However, this material is the crux of what we will be doing this semester, and thus participants in this course will not be able to avoid it. Please carefully review the syllabus, and come talk with me if you believe that the course material will be too difficult for you to work through. [C, HSS, W]
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PSCI 24728 - Democracy, Autocracy & Regime Change Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
[C, HSS]
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PSCI 24730 - Sex and War Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, WGSS)
This comparative politics seminar examines the gendered dimensions and sexual politics of militarism, armed conflict, and political violence. The course starts from the basic premise that men and women’s experiences, understandings, and perceptions of war and “peace” may be different, and that examining these differences and their effects can help researchers and policymakers better understand the causes of war, and design more effective strategies for building peace. In it, we will examine questions like: . How are men and women affected differently by war? . What roles are played mostly by women and what roles are played mostly by men in times of war and “peace”? . How are gender and sexual identities (re)produced and/or (de)stabilized during war? . How do humanitarian interventions and peace processes challenge or reinforce gender and sexual relations? . How are militarized masculinities organized armed groups? . What are the costs of not seeing the impacts of wars on women and the presence of women combatants in wars? This course is primarily a political science course, but also integrates scholarly works from feminist international relations, women’s studies, public health, and area studies. The primary goal of the course is to encourage students to disrupt their own and other’s assumptions and the causes, dynamics, and effects of war. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24731 - Middle East & N Africa Politic Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, MENA)
This is a comprehensive course covering modern Middle East politics. The course will cover the general history and political dynamics of states in Western Asia and North Africa, which are commonly referred to as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Topics covered include the regional history, institutions, political economy, identity, gender, conflict, and religion. About half of the semester will compare states’ political dynamics, while a third of the semester will cover a deeper examination of political dynamics within specific states. Students will be expected to read various texts and journal articles, participate in online and class discussion, complete essay exams, give a substantial presentation, and write a literature review paper. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24800 - Contemporary Latin American Politics Course Credit: 1
(GLIS, LAST)
This course will study the political, economic and social changes that have taken place in the region since the 1980s. Particular attention will be paid to theories and processes of democratization and economic growth, poverty and social welfare in the region, and citizen demands for inclusion and political representation. Students will leave the class with a greater appreciation of the region and the ability to make informed and reasoned arguments about a wide variety of political and social issues facing contemporary Latin America. Alternate Years. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 24900 - the Government and Politics of Africa Course Credit: 1
(AFST, GLIS)
A general overview of Africa’s encounter with Europe and its after-effects. The course will also be concerned with the various ways in which African countries have attempted to build viable political and economic systems. [C, HSS]
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PSCI 33000 - Research in Political Theory Course Credit: 1
This tutorial surveys the major contemporary approaches to political theory, including textual analysis, hermeneutics, critical theory and conceptual analysis, and focuses on research design and writing in political theory. Course requirements include the design and completion of a substantial research paper in political theory. This course is a prerequisite to enrolling in PSCI 45100 in Field III, Political Theory. By arrangement with the instructor and the chair of the department.
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PSCI 35000 - Research Methods and Design Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
This course is a survey of various methodologies employed in the study of political science as a foundation for Senior Independent Study. It emphasizes research design, hypothesis construction, data collection, and a variety of forms of empirical political analysis. PSCI 35000 is a prerequisite for enrolling in PSCI 45100 . Political science majors normally take PSCI 350 in their junior year. In the rare case of a student spending their entire junior year off-campus, they must notify the Chair of the Department of Political Science no later than fall semester of their sophomore year so arrangements can be made for the student to take the course in spring semester of their sophomore year. The department recommends that students have at least one introductory course and one 200-level course in their concentration field prior to enrolling in PSCI 35000. Students with a field specialization in Political Theory are exempt from this requirement but are required to take PSCI 33000 instead. Annually.
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PSCI 40000 - Tutorial Course Credit: 1
A tutorial course on a special topic may be offered to an individual student under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite: The approval of both the supervising faculty member and the chairperson are required prior to registration. May be repeated.
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PSCI 41000 - Internships Course Credit: 0.25
Maximum Credit: 1
For a detailed discussion of the various internships available through the Washington Semester Program, see the description under Off-Campus Study and Internships. For internships with a focus in Political Science, the Washington Semester’s part-time internship is accredited as PSCI 41000. Since the prerequisites differ for the different internships, the student should consult the Washington Seminar adviser within the Political Science Department. May be repeated.
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PSCI 45100 - Senior Independent Study - Semester One Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
The first semester of the Senior Independent Study project, in which each student engages in creative and independent research guided by a faculty mentor and which culminates in a thesis and an oral examination in the second semester. Prerequisite(s): PSCI 33000 or PSCI 35000 depending on concentration field Annually.
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PSCI 45200 - Senior Independent Study - Semester Two Course Credit: 1
(GLIS)
The second semester of the Senior Independent Study project, which culminates in the thesis and an oral examination. Prerequisite(s): PSCI 45100 Annually.
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PSYC 10000 - Introduction to Psychology Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
An introduction to psychological theory, research, and methods. Coverage includes basic neurological processes, principles of learning and cognition, individual differences in personality, developmental processes, sensation and perception, mental health, and social influences on behavior. Students may take the course only once for course credit. Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 11000 - Child and Adolescent Development Course Credit: 1
(COMD, COMM, EDUC)
A study of the processes that contribute to the development of the individual as a person. The emphasis is typically on the child from conception to early adolescence. This course is intended primarily for students seeking licensure in Education. Psychology majors and minors are strongly encouraged to enroll in PSYC 10000 . A 2-hour per week field placement at the College of Wooster Nursery School is required of all students. The field placement satisfies licensure requirements for Education minor students. Precludes enrollment in PSYC 32700 . Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 21100 - Maturity and Old Age Course Credit: 1
(COMD, COMM)
A course exploring the individual’s needs and developmental tasks to be accomplished by people as they progress from young adulthood to retirement and beyond. The impact of biological, sociological, and psychological factors on the aging process will be examined in an attempt to separate myth from reality about aging. The emphasis will be on middle aged people to senior citizens. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 21200 - Abnormal Psychology Course Credit: 1
(COMD, MUSC)
Examines the origin, development, and classification of abnormal behavior and human psychopathology. Topics will include mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, substance-related disorders, and disorders usually diagnosed in childhood. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 21500 - Psychology of Women and Gender Course Credit: 1
(COMM, WGSS)
This course focuses on the societal construction and significance of gender, as well as the psychological implications of events unique to women. We will engage in a critical examination of theories and evidence concerning differences between women and men. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 21800 - Animal Cognition Course Credit: 1
Animal cognition is designed to attract students from a variety of disciplines (especially psychology, biology, anthropology and neuroscience), to explore the comparative science of cognitive processes in a wide range of animals, including humans. We examine research from a number of different fields and perspectives, including experimental psychology, ethology, neuroscience, physical anthropology, biology, evolutionary psychology, and developmental psychology. The course covers a wide range of animal abilities (in a remarkable range of species), including associate learning, navigational abilities, perceptual and memory processes, concept and rule acquisition, quantitative abilities, cognitive models of timing abilities, observational learning and imitation, self-recognition and self-awareness, cooperation, language and the capacity to teach others. [HSS]
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PSYC 22000 - Stereotypes and Prejudice Course Credit: 1
(COMM)
This is a course on stereotyping and prejudice from a social psychological perspective. The course will familiarize students with both basic and advanced concepts in areas such as the origins and development of stereotypes and prejudice, social identity theory, affective and motivational processes, automatic and controlled processes, and prejudice reduction. Emphasis is placed upon empirical research. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [C, HSS]
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PSYC 22500 - Environmental Psychology Course Credit: 1
(ENVS)
The field of environmental psychology explores the interrelationships between people and their physical environments, including both built and natural environments. This course covers the major areas of research in environmental psychology, including effects of the environment on humans, human perception of the environment, the relationship between humans and the natural world, and psychological factors affecting human care for the natural environment. We will also consider how this information can be applied to promote a healthier relationship between humans and their environment. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 ; or permission of the instructor Alternate Years. [HSS]
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PSYC 23000 - Human Neuropsychology Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
This course will explore the functioning of the fascinating human brain by discussing how we make decisions, how we rationalize choices, how we consider emotions and how we learn, to name a few. The course emphasizes the various methodologies used to assess the functions of brain regions and behavior through case studies as well as empirical research. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 Annually. [HSS]
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PSYC 23500 - Evolutionary Psychology Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
This course provides an integrated approach to studying human behavior based on an evolutionary model. Using Darwin’s theory of natural and sexual selection we will investigate adaptive problems such as predator avoidance, inter-group aggression, mate selection, child rearing, and negotiating social relationships. Other topics include: “human nature,” the origins and functions of various behavioral sex differences, the evolutionary basis of nepotism, gene-behavior relations, reproductive behavior, and how culture and social learning interface with Darwinian evolution. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 24500 - Human Sexuality Course Credit: 1
A survey course examining the evolutionary, comparative, biological, developmental, social, and historical-cultural aspects of human reproductive behavior. Additional topics include: sexually transmitted disease, sex in the context of human relationships, and issues of sexual orientation. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 25000 - Introduction to Statistics and Experimental Design Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
Introduction to the basic principles of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and experimental design. Includes SPSS instruction and a one-hour laboratory. Minimum grade of C is required to advance in the major or minor. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 Annually. [Q]
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PSYC 29900 - Topics in Applied Psychology Course Credit: 1
A course in which traditional concepts, methods and theories in psychology are applied to a practical issue. Topics selected yearly and announced in advance by the faculty member responsible for the course. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 29901 - Psychology and Literature Course Credit: 1
In this course we will examine the relationship between psychology and literature. Students will study the different facets of that uniquely human behavior: reading. What is the psychological experience of reading a novel or short story? How does this ability develop? What role does language play in shaping consciousness and the mind, and how does fiction serve a related function? How does the unconscious (both personal and collective) shape our experience of reading fiction? A further course objective will be to analyze literary works in terms of psychological theories. In particular we will focus on the works of Freud and Jung, and how they have influenced both psychology and literatureover the last century. Through textual analysis we will explore the role of literature has in the socialization ofchildren and adults, and the ability of such works to transmit information about interpersonal relationships, morality, and social isolation. Students will gain an appreciation for and understanding of character development and motivation as symbol and archetype. In addition to focusing on the psychological approach to literature, students will develop the necessary skills to write an effective analytical essay with a clear focus, logical organization, and meaningful detail. [HSS]
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PSYC 29907 - Psychology and Law Course Credit: 1
This class is a survey of the major topics represented in the field of Psychology and Law. The class will focus on how psychological research can contribute to a better understanding of issues related to law and legal processes. Topics include adult and child eyewitness testimony, jury decision making; interrogation and confessions, and the determination of insanity and competence. Goals: Students will become familiar with the major topics represented in the field of psychology and law. We will focus on how psychological research can contribute to a better understanding of legal issues and how the legal system can be informed by the results of psychological research. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 29908 - Special Topic: Black Psychology Course Credit: 1
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PSYC 29909 - Multicultural Psychology Course Credit: 1
As people, we function in environments we share with others. In those contexts, we learn about what it means to be and how to behave as members of a group or groups. Cultural psychology, a newer area of psychology, focuses on human thought and behavior within these cultural contexts. In Multicultural Psychology, we will review how researchers have conceptualized culture and its impact on individuals. From there, we will spend time reading, discussing, and writing about research that emphasizes the influence of culture on different groups (immigrants, racial/ethnic minorities) and towards various outcomes (e.g., mental health, identity, and language). We will pay special attention to what happens when people from different cultures interact with each other, both in the U.S. and in global contexts. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 10000 [HSS]
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PSYC 29910 - Applied Psychology Course Credit: 1
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PSYC 31500 - Music and Speech Perception Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
Music and speech have long been proposed to have common evolutionary roots. Both have a hierarchical structure and complex rhythm. Both convey emotion and share many other communicative properties. In this class we will examine theory, methodology and phenomena surrounding the perception and production of music and speech with a particular focus on the overlap between these two domains. One goal of this course is to provide a strong foundation for conducting a research project in this area, either as an I.S. project or in another capacity. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 25000
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PSYC 31800 - Hemispheric Specialization
We begin with research by the leading researcher in the world on split-brain studies, Michael Gazzaniga, who has examined not only hemispheric specialization but also a number of questions about the intricacies of the anatomy and functions of the human brain, and how it is both evolutionarily similar to, but also intriguingly different from, the brains of other animals. We will also examine some of the primary literature on hemispheric specialization and the behaviors related to a lateralized brain. We then examine topics related to hemispheric specialization and brain “modules.” The course culminates in a term paper on a topic in hemispheric specialization.
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PSYC 32100 - Learning and Behavior Course Credit: 1
(NEUR)
Detailed critical examination of theory, research and applications of learning processes, from simple associative processes (classical and operant conditioning) to complex processes (conceptual abstraction and reasoning). Scientific writing is emphasized. Three-hour weekly laboratory with additional outside hours for animal testing. Class and laboratory components are closely integrated and must be taken concurrently. Prerequisite(s): PSYC 25000 ; PSYC-32100L Annually. [W]
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