COURSE DESCRIPTIONS IN UNIVERSITY STUDIES


UNST 103*. Basic Writing, Credit 3(3-0)

This course is designed to prepare students for writing college-level compositions. The course begins with a focus on paragraph writing, requiring that students demonstrate their ability to develop and organize paragraphs adequately and clearly. In addition, the course concentrates on the short composition, requiring that students demonstrate competency in writing short essays. Computer-based tools such as Criterion may be used to address fundamental skills in student writing. The course will be offered for a Pass/Fail grade.

*This is a developmental course. It does not count toward graduation.


FOUNDATION COURSES


University Studies foundation courses focus on the four major goals of the University Studies program: broad-based critical-thinking skills; effective written and oral communication of ideas; appreciation for diverse cultures; and commitment to ongoing civic engagement and social responsibility. Foundation-level courses emphasize active learning/teaching strategies, ongoing formative assessment, and interdisciplinary thinking.


UNST 100. University Experience, Credit 1(1-0)

This seminar emphasizes the role of the University Studies program and presents a broad overview of the curriculum structure and rationale, including an introduction to a variety of interdisciplinary themes within the University Studies program. Introductory discussions on ethics, wellness and healthy lifestyles, diversity and civic engagement will be included.


UNST 110. Critical Writing, Credit 3(3-0)

This course introduces students to reading comprehension and the writing process. Students will read and evaluate selected texts and apply critical thinking through writing and speaking. Students will engage in formal and informal writing, revise drafts and respond to constructive feedback related to critical thinking skills, use grammar and conventions of standard written English. All students will develop a writing portfolio for course assessment.


UNST 120. The Contemporary World, Credit 3(3-0)

This course examines the social, economic, political, and cultural roots of the contemporary world. It focuses on the major developments, events, and ideas that have shaped world societies since the beginning of the twentieth century. Close attention will be given to the concepts and categories that allow students to grasp the nature and development of the contemporary world, thus providing them with a framework for understanding the contemporary global experience. The course helps students to develop critical thinking skills in their oral and written work and to use information technology effectively.


UNST 130. Analytical Reasoning, Credit 3(3-0)

This course engages students in scientific, quantitative, and logical reasoning processes to prepare them to interpret and solve problems encountered in everyday life. Students will consider concepts from logic and the scientific disciplines including life, social, and physical sciences. The scientific method and a variety of analytical approaches are explored, including numerical, graphical, verbal/logical, and algebraic reasoning.


UNST 140. The African American Experience: An Interdisciplinary Perspective, Credit 3(3-0)

This interdisciplinary course introduces students to the important contributions made and challenges faced by people of African descent in America and the global community. This course will focus on oral, written, and visual means of expression as a basis for discussion, analysis, and debate.





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