Core Curriculum

Written Communication, Oral Communication, Foreign Language, Quantitative Reasoning, and Computer Use; (0-24 credits)

Details and Exemption Criteria

COURSE OPTIONS:

Written Communications

English 101: Written Communication I
You bring to college all that you’ve learned to do, to understand, and to recognize thus far in your education. Your experience in the core curriculum should be a finishing process, in which your intellect, your world view, and the skills and habits of mind you will use as an educated person are developed fully. In English 101, your ability to participate in the continual written conversation of educated people is brought to fruition. You’ll learn to employ your curiosity, senses, and powers of reason to understand and explain. You’ll fully develop your ability to manage language and express your thinking in your own distinctive voice.

English 102: Written Communication II
The continuing conversation among educated people is represented in the academic literature of various disciplines. English 102 is your entry point into this conversation. English 102 will show you the ways of searching, reading, and writing that you will use in your undergraduate education. Educated people observe more carefully, wonder more, and make more connections; in English 102, you’ll observe and practice the literacy skills necessary to carry you through your college experience. Once again building on what you brought with you when you came to college and what you developed as a writer in English 101, English 102 takes your game to a higher level.

Oral Communications

CMM 101: Interpersonal Communication
High quality communication is essential to both healthy relationships and to effective performance in the workplace. Every communication behavior, whether verbal or nonverbal, affects how others perceive us and our success or failure in dealing with others. Good career preparation involves acquiring both the relevant technical skills and developing one’s communication abilities. This course examines how the style and content of one’s communication influences one’s identity, relationships, and goal achievement. The ultimate objective is to enable the student to optimize his/her strategic communication competencies in order to be better prepared to identify and solve personal, relational and organizational problems.

CMM 103: Public Speaking
It is widely reported that the number one fear among Americans is speaking in public. However, it is also widely reported that most employers consider that the ability to speak effectively is one of the top two skills that they need to see in successful job applicants. This course teaches students to develop and present effective messages, focusing on both content and delivery. Students will learn to prepare various types of messages and present them to audiences of all types and sizes.

THE 136: Elements of Acting
Stage business and movements, theatrical projection, correlation of body and voice, relation of the body to moods and emotions, and the application of these elements to individual and ensemble scene work.

Foreign Languages

Beginning Foreign Language I / II (101-102 level)
Studying a language that is not your own will open the doors to a new world. You will experience a different way of seeing the world and thinking about life, as you learn about another culture. Learning a new language is the ultimate sensory and intellectual challenge. You will hear and pronounce new sounds. You will be transported back to your earliest days of school as you learn how to read and write with new symbols and letters. Although these classes are at the beginning level and do not promise to make you fluent, you will acquire a deeper understanding of your own language and an appreciation for other peoples and cultures.

Quantitative Reasoning

ECN 241: Statistics
Application of statistical methods in management and economics. Descriptive statistics, probability, normal curve sampling, confidence, and regressions. Prerequisites: Completion of mathematics and computer requirements in component one of core.

MAT 107: Introduction to Mathematics
Basic principles and techniques of mathematics. May include theory of sets, logic, number theory, geometry, probability and statistics, consumer mathematics. Emphasis on unity of thought and consistency of approach to problem solving. History and relevance of mathematics for growth of civilizations.

MAT 112: Basic Statistics
In MAT 112, students will learn how to produce, interpret, and model data using various probabilistic and statistical methods. Students will also develop an understanding of the use of statistics in many aspects of our daily life including natural sciences, social sciences, medical research and others.

MAT 124: Intermediate Algebra
Operation with polynomials, solution of equations and verbal problems, exponents and radicals, quadratic equations, systems of linear equations, graphing techniques.

MAT 131: Plane Trigonometry
In Plane Trigonometry we study the relationships between the angles and the lengths of the sides in a triangle, and the properties of these relations. Applications of the trigonometric functions include astronomy, navigation, oceanography, land surveying, engineering, and computer graphics.

MAT 143: Mathematical Analysis for Business and Economics I
For business and economics majors. Topics include algebra, analytic geometry, applications, elements of linear programming, and mathematics of finance.

MAT 151: Pre-Calculus
In Pre-Calculus we study many of the functions and properties of these that are important in the study of Calculus. We also begin to introduce the concept of the limit, which is central to the study of in Calculus.

MAT 201: Calculus I
Calculus is the study of change. For instance, if we know the position of an object at any given time, we can deduce its velocity, and vice versa. If two quantities are related, like the side lengths of a rectangle and the area, we can see how the rate of change of one of these quantities affects the other. Applications of Calculus include astronomy, engineering, and actuarial sciences.

PSY/SOC 211: Statistics in the Behavioral Sciences
More information is readily available to us than at any other point in human history. The question is: How do we make sense of all of this information? For example, when you are told that you performed in the 84th percentile, what does that really mean? In order to become better consumers and producers of information, a solid foundation in description and inferential decision-making is essential. In this course, we learn how to accurately describe large data sets using statistics such as the mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, and z-scores. We also learn how to make inferences from sample data to whole populations in order to do things such as assess the effectiveness of a therapeutic intervention.

Computer Use

CSC 117: Microcomputers and Application Software
CSC117 is a course that is designed to extend your knowledge of the use of an operating system (Windows 7), the use of word processing software (Microsoft Word), the use of presentation software (PowerPoint), and the use of spreadsheeting software (Excel). This is a hands-on course whose goal is to reduce your dependancy on default settings and to put you, the user, in total control of your computing environment.

CSC 118: The Internet: Information Retrieval and Organization
Basic concepts and usage of databases. Understanding and using the Internet with special emphasis on the use of search engines and directories to locate information. Using databases to organize information.

Note: For Biology and Construction Management students, this requirement is met through courses in the major.

Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences; (25 credits)

Details and Exemption Criteria

COURSE OPTIONS:

Humanities

Literature

ENG 135: Introduction to Literature
Study of literary genres: fiction, poetry, drama, and basic strategies for better understanding and enjoyment.

ENG 145: Literature in Focus
Students will explore a particular topic, interest, or activity through its representation in literature. Possible topics: Sports Literature, Religion and Literature, Crime in Literature, etc.

ENG 245: Major Figures in English Literature: Through the 18th Century
British literature from the Anglo Saxon period through the Restoration. May include Beowulf, Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, poetry, prose, and drama from 16th and 17th centuries. Milton's Paradise Lost, and selected writings from other authors.

ENG 246: Major Figures in English Literature: Since the 18th Century
How does British literature get from Jane Austen's drawing rooms to Martin Amis's strip clubs, from Wordsworth's “child of joy" to Larkin's advice to "get out as early as you can and don't have any kids yourself"? This course traces British literature as it moves away from its pastoral and genteel roots toward the "brutal urbanism" of the late 20th and early 21st-centuries.

ENG 295: Major Figures in American Literature: Colonial Times – 1865
ENG 295 examines texts both for their literary merit and for their political significance as it observes how early American writers struggled with issues such as the aftermath of the U.S.’s independence from Britain, the oppressive treatment of Native Americans, and the horrors of slavery. Two topics that are of special interest are how American literature developed as a post-colonial literature struggling to find its own voice and how women were able to claim space in the literary world despite being denied access to political power.

ENG 296: Major Figures in American Literature: Since the Civil War
American writers from 1865 to the present.

LIT 205: Masterpieces of Western Literature: Through the Renaissance
May include Greek and Roman epic, lyric, drama, comedy, and pastoral as well as works by Chretien de Troyes, Dante, Cervantes, and others in translation.

LIT 206: Masterpieces of Western Literature: Since the Renaissance
Literature after 1650 in translation. Typically includes Moliere, Voltaire, Goethe, Flaubert, Dostoevsky, Ibsen, Mann, and Kafka.

Fine, Visual, and Performing Arts

FIA 115: Introduction to Art
Experiencing and understanding art through the study of elements, techniques, styles and ideas.

FIA 245: History of Art I
Art from pre-history to medieval times. Placement and continuous development of style, purpose and iconography of major art objects and monuments.

FIA 246: History of Art II
Proto-Renaissance to the present. Placement and continuous development of style, purpose and iconography of major art objects and monuments.

MUS 115: Introduction to Music
Introductory study covering a variety of types of music, including works by major composers from various historic periods. Emphasis on development of structured listening based on the elements of music.

MUS 245: History of Music I
Survey of Western music from its Greek origins through the Baroque period, emphasizing the development of styles and forms and the relationships between music and the other arts and their times.

MUS 246: History of Music II
Survey of Western music from the latter part of the Baroque period to the present, emphasizing the development of styles and forms and the relationships between music and the other arts and their times.

THE 115: Introduction to Theatre
Examination of the various arts of theatre: playwriting, directing, acting, scene and costume design, as individual arts and as part of the composite art of theatre leading to a more perceptive critical view of theatre. Practical work in at least one stage production required.

Philosophy/Semiotic Systems

English 103: Introduction to the English Language
English 103 is a course in which you will learn how the language you speak causes you to view people positively or negatively based on their gender, race, ethnicity, religion, handicap, and other factors and how language is used to mislead you into making uninformed decisions. English 103 will also make you aware of how changes in the culture are reflected in the addition to and the changes and meanings of words in English as well as changes that occur in ways that we communicate in addition to and parallel with language.

PHI 101: Introduction to Philosophy
Philosophy 101 introduces students to the basics of critical thinking and argumentation. It is designed to teach students what logical arguments are, and how to spot illogical arguments in sources ranging from the media, to academic texts.

PHI 103: Problems in Philosophy
Philosophy 103 is an introductory course that focuses on some of the most basic questions we as human have. Topics typically range from things such as the existence of God and what exists more generally, to what constitutes knowledge, or if we have free will.

PHI 104: Philosophy of Religion
Philosophy 104 is an introductory course that critically engages with religion. Topics explored, amongst other things, include whether God exists, if we can have morality without a God, or why evil exists.

PHI 107: Ethics
Philosophy 107 is an introductory ethics course that explores the moral foundations of our beliefs. It critically engages with classic ethical texts to test our commonly held beliefs and institutions about what is right or what we owe to each other.

PHI 108: Professional Ethics
Philosophy 108 explores first, the ethical foundations of commonly held belief systems. Second, it critically engages with problems typically encountered in the professions such as lying, secrecy, confidentiality, and whistle-blowing, and provides future professionals with a basis from which critical engagement with ethical dilemmas encountered in their professions can occur.

PHI 205: History of Ancient Philosophy
An examination of theories of the good life from the period of Ancient Greece to that of the Late Roman Empire. Theories to be considered include the Socratic, the Platonic, the Aristotelian, the Epicurean, the Stoic, the Ciceronian, and the Pyrrhonian; this class will provide the student with valuable insight into the manner by which one can live the most flourishing and fulfilling of human lives. This course carries Utica College Writing-Intensive status.

PHI 206: History of Modern Philosophy
A study of Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century European Philosophy. Philosophers to be considered include Descartes, Hobbes, Spinoza, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant; this class will provide the student with precious insight into the nature of the human condition and the basis for her/his knowledge of the world. This course carries Utica College Writing-Intensive status.

Natural Sciences

Biology

BIO 101 and 102: Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
Do you ever wonder how your brain tells your big toe to move? Do you wonder how your heart can move the total volume of blood (6 liters) in your body each minute? This course sequence is designed to satisfy this natural curiosity while providing you with the knowledge to pursue career training in health care professions. BIO 101 is dedicated to basic knowledge about cells and tissues then progresses through structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of bones, muscles and the nervous system. In other words, how did you move your big toe? BIO 102 takes us on a journey through the rest of the body including the heart that is pumping the blood and the vessels that carry the blood throughout the body within a minute.

BIO 111: Human Ecology
This course introduces you to how the natural world functions as a unit – how do organisms get food and energy, who eats whom, what happens when organisms die, and how are organisms interrelated with each other, the earth, water, and air. The impact of humans on the balance of natural systems and how these natural systems are important to us are also investigated in this course.

BIO111 L: Human Ecology Lab
This lab will introduce non-science students to basic ways in which ecologists study the natural world in order gain a better understanding of the natural world and our place in it.

BIO 112/PSY207: Human Sexuality
In this course you will be challenged to think about what we consider sexual norms in Western society and how these norms shape our approach to sexuality. We begin by studying human bodies, and how our bodies and minds relate to each other sexually. Once we become acquainted with this basic aspect of sexuality, we will consider sexual diversity, sexual disorders, sexual development, sex through the lifespan, and reproduction. Goals of this course are for you to realize that each person has their own unique sexuality, and to develop a greater awareness your own sexuality and the sexuality of others.

BIO 113: Human Genetics
Did you ever wonder how you got your mother’s eyes and your grandfather’s nose? This course introduces the basic principles of human genetics and describes some conditions, diseases and syndromes related to changes or malfunction of the genetic material. We will also discuss the use of genetics in medical applications that raise ethical, social and moral questions.

BIO 211: General Biology I
Study of life as characterized by cell organization and structure, release and utilization of energy, photosynthesis growth and reproduction, interaction with the environment, Mendelian inheritance, genetic technology, and change over time. Laboratory experiences reflect lectures and expose students to scientific methodology, hypothesis building and testing, various qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.

Chemistry

CHE 103: Chemistry and Society
Just like molecules are the fabric of matter, chemistry forms the basis for society. From ancient experiments with fire to materials science, nanotechnology, and medicine, chemistry has been and continues to be a critical component of society. This course will take you on a tour of the chemistry that makes our society work, from oil and energy to food and drugs, come see the science that's going on around the major social issues of our generation. Better yet, you'll find that you can educate yourself to become part of the conversation!

CHE 105: Chemistry of Everyday Things
"Macroscopic observations have molecular causes." This is the theme for this laboratory-driven course that explores the amazing world of atoms and molecules that underlies everything in our lives. From food to medicine, paints and dyes, cleaning supplies, and everything in between, molecules make the world around us happen. Spend a semester learning to "see" beneath the surface of our world and you will develop a richer enjoyment and appreciation of nature, medicine, technology, and all of the benefits science has to offer. You will position yourself to be able to read and think critically about the way science is presented in the media and make good choices about what to buy, eat, drink, and wear. Better living through chemistry!

CHE 211: General Chemistry I
Atoms and molecules have interesting, complex, and sometimes volatile relationships with one another. Whether they're fighting over electrons or trying to find ways to share, the structure of atoms and molecules depends dramatically on the outcome. Join us on a journey to examine these intricate relationships and see for yourself some of the amazing structures and functions that result. Follow the electrons through the redox reactions that make batteries possible, see the molecular shapes that influence how things look, taste, and smell, and explore in lab the reaction pathways that can be used to recycle minerals. Learn how we can use instruments to probe the chemical environment of molecules and solutions and see how we can use that information to design new and better products. One thing's for sure: you'll discover a whole new world of molecules and reactions everywhere you look!

Environmental Science

ENV 201: Introduction to Environmental Issues
We live in a highly technological society, and to maintain that way of life requires large quantities of natural resources from the environment and emits to the environment many byproducts. In ENV 201 you will learn about the effects of these actions on the environment and, because we are a part of the environment, ultimately on us. We will also discuss means by which we can minimize negative impacts and the fact that oftentimes we already have the science and technology to do so but that it may instead be the political, economic, and/or social aspects surrounding these issues and the many different stakeholders’ perspectives that are the reason many environmental problems are not yet solved.

Geology

GOL 105L: Society, Earth, and the Environment
Hands-on exercises to understand natural hazards and their impacts, past and present occurrences as a means of predicting future disasters, and the technology, sociology, and politics of pollution, energy and resources.

GOL 115: Elementary Oceanography
Fundamental topics and contemporary problems pertaining to the oceans. Physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the science of the sea, including exploration, ocean basin configuration and origin, properties of sea water, currents and circulation, sedimentation, economic resources and exploitation, and life within the sea. Weather and climate relationship to the oceans. Political and environmental concerns.

GOL 225: Physical Geology
Understanding and appreciation of the earth upon which we live; its composition, structure, and landforms and the physical, chemical, and biological agencies active in their production. Lectures, laboratories, field trips.

GOL 226: Historical Geology
The history and development of the earth and the origin and evolution of the life upon the earth with emphasis on North America. Lectures, laboratory, field trips.

History and Philosophy of Science and Technology

HPS 126: The Rise of Modern Science: Aristotle to Newton
What makes science scientific? When did science become separate from philosophy? What happened when the Man with the Golden Nose met the Mangy Dog and they tried to answer the most important question in history? Who was this Darwin fellow and is it true that we’re related to pond scum? In History and Philosophy of Science and Technology we’ll ask all these questions and more, and in this way we’ll explore the essence of science.

Physics

PHY 116: Astronomy: A Study of the Universe
In most science courses you remain on Earth as you progress through the semester. Not in this course! Physics 116 is the course that will provide you with an understanding of the Universe and the physical laws that govern it. In this course you will find yourself surrounded by Supernovae, Black Holes, Dark Matter, Dark Energy and other interesting and exotic topics. Physics 116 will provide you the opportunity to explore the night sky through an observing laboratory, allowing you to see planets, stars, and galaxies up close and personal. If you have ever looked up to the sky and wondered how, what, or why, Physics 116 is the course for you.

PHY 123: Physics for Liberal Arts
Physics is the study of what the world is like, how it all fits together, and what it all means anyway. “Physics for Liberal Arts” continues your exploration of the physical Universe so that you better understand how it works. You can make up your own mind about what it all means. Science doesn’t happen by itself; it’s part of human culture. What we call “physics” happens, and has always happened, within the context of everything else that is going on in society. That’s what “Physics for Liberal Arts” is all about.

PHY 151: General Physics I: Mechanics, Heat, and Waves
From your drive to campus in the snow, to your ride on the roller-coaster at the fair, to your opening of the door to your dorm room, to your work-outs in the gym, your everyday life is a demonstration of physics. Physics 151 is the course where you will develop an understanding of the world around you and the physical laws that govern the motion and interaction of objects. Physics 151 allows you to “get your hands dirty” in a weekly laboratory, which is designed to help you to further develop an intuition about, and a deeper understanding of, the physical world. If you are interested in what is happening around you and if you would like to understand the how and the why, Physics 151 is a course you should take.

PHY 163: How Things Work
Have you ever wondered how tight-rope walkers keep their balance, or why ice-skaters spin faster when they bring their arms close to their bodies? Why ramps make it easier to move heavy objects? Whether woodstoves or fireplaces are better at heating your home? How rocket ships steer in outer space? In “How Things Work” you will discover that you can understand a lot about how the world around you works without heavy-duty math, and you will see how a few simple principles serve to explain a multitude of things you observe in everyday life.

PHY 261: Physics I
You’ve paid your dues and passed your calculus class. In Physics 261 you will get your reward, by discovering just how powerful the ideas from calculus are to describe and explain how the macroscopic world works. You will see that, remarkably, the everyday world operates according to a few basic principles, and your understanding of the world around you will be transformed!

Social Sciences

History and Heritage

ANT 251(D): Native American Culture and History
This course explores indigenous North America through close examination of diverse native histories and contemporary native cultures. As you develop this base knowledge, you will also hone the analytical skills to understand the complexity of native experiences today, including the challenges facing indigenous North Americans; their responses to these challenges; and the significance of native communities to larger North American societies.

HIS 126: America 1500 to 1877
History 126 tells America’s founding story. Students will study America's origins through the history of native peoples, European colonization, the creation of the United States, and the unfolding struggles of the young republic, concluding with the Civil War and Reconstruction. You will gain an understanding of how race, class, gender, culture, economics, politics, and international affairs all contributed to America's formation.

HIS 127: America 1877 to Present
In History 127, you will gain an appreciation for how each generation of Americans from the Civil War to the present has struggled to realize the nation's founding values. We will cover a lot of ground, from culture, race, class, and gender, to economics and politics, to major wars and international affairs.

HIS 135(D): Africa and the World
History 135 examines the multifaceted role that race has played in shaping the African American experience from Colonial America to the present. You will come away from the course with a broad understanding of the black community's intergenerational struggle to challenge racial oppression and bring about political, social, and economic equality in the United States.

HIS 145(D): Asia and the World
History 145 is world history from the Asian perspective. Focusing primarily on East and South Asia, we examine social, intellectual, and political systems and see how Asia was the center of the world for most of our history. Moving into the modern era, we’ll look at the rise of the West from an Asian perspective and see how the Western powers came to dominate Asia, culminating in two world wars and a series of revolutions. You will come away from this class with a knowledge of Asian religions, culture, political systems, and its economy.

HIS 165(D): Europe and the World
In History 165, students explore World History from the European perspective over the previous 1000 years. History 165 focuses on the major events, individuals, movements, and ideologies that allowed Europe to become the dominant influence shaping global politics, society, economics, and culture into the world we live in today.

Social Institutions and Processes

ECN 141: Principles of Macroeconomics
Principles of economics with major emphasis on the system as a whole (macroeconomics) and the role of government through fiscal, monetary, and other policies to maintain full employment without inflation.

GOV 101: Introduction to Politics and American Government
A basic knowledge of politics and government is a necessary part of being a citizen and an intellectual. It’s also vital to pursuing your self-interest. Politics exists anywhere a group of people is trying to make a collective decision. The more you learn about this process, the better you can get what you want. GOV 101 will introduce politics by examining how the U.S. political system was created, how the different parts work, how things have changed over time, and how all of this relates to you. The class will enable you to transform yourself from a politically uninformed and disinterested person to an active and knowledgeable citizen who is more productive in society and more marketable on the job front.

GOV 161: Introduction to International Politics
Unlike domestic politics, international relations takes place in an arena that has no central governing body. The world is a primitive political society that is marked by little organization, frequent violence, and a limited sense of global responsibility. It is a world where nuclear weapons are plentiful, where some countries are trying to acquire them while others are trying to prevent that from happening, where terrorists daily strike without warning, and thousands die every day from poverty caused by the way the international economic system operates. It is a world of conflict. But there is also a world of cooperation based on a desire among states and their people to work together globally to solve many of the world’s pressing problems from nuclear proliferation to pandemics and poverty.

Because world events affect us in many ways, whether we are aware of it or not, international relations is important. This course helps students understand what we need to know about international relations by exploring those themes of conflict and cooperation between and among the actors on the international stage ranging from statesmen and leaders of countries, corporations, and international organizations to suicide bombers and cyber warriors.

IST101(D): World Regional Geography
Where you are is vitally important to who you are. That is why geography is about far more than lines on a map. In World Regional Geography, you will learn about not only the world's physical landscapes, but also the culture, social lives, economic opportunities and political systems that have evolved in them. Using a systems approach, we will explore how connections between the world's regions and populations are expressed, both in the past and in the present day.

CMM 181: Introduction to Mass Communication
The mass media play a significant role in your life. Books, newspapers, magazines, movies, music, radio, television, and the Internet are sources of information and entertainment that provide a shared cultural experience. The mass media have also historically shaped our economy and continue to be powerful channels for commerce. Introduction to Mass Communication inspires you to look at the mass media from a historical and critical perspective, and encourages you to become an informed consumer of media.

The Individual, Culture, and Society

ANT 101(D): Introduction to Anthropology
Anthropology 101 is a course in which you will examine what it means to be a human being, both as a member of a biological species and as a member of social groups. You will look globally at the human condition, past and present, and will come away from the experience with a sense of the vast scope of human life and culture. You will also learn about the variety of current professions an anthropologist may perform to serve and benefit communities inside and outside the United States.

PSY101: Introduction to Psychology
There are few statements more self-evident than “Human behavior is interesting”. As long as we humans have had the capacity for cognition, we have been intrigued by our own behaviors. This course is designed as a broad overview of the general principles that guide human behavior. Knowledge of these principles has valuable applications in such important areas as science, medicine, education, politics, and business.

SOC 151(D): Human Society
Human society is a course that is designed to help you understand how you operate within larger society. In this class, we discuss how identities that you may think are biological or fixed, such as race, class and gender, are in fact constructed by the society and culture in which you live. We will go over how these identities influence the way you function and are treated within social institutions like the family, education, and the criminal justice system. By the end of this course, you will develop an understanding of the diversity of experiences that exist within our society, and gain a deeper understanding of people from a variety of different backgrounds and experiences.

Writing intensive coursework; (6 credits)

Details and Exemption Criteria

Writing Requirement:

Complete two courses designated as writing-intensive after the student has completed 27 credit hours. Students who transfer with their core requirements complete are required to take only one writing intensive course (3 credits).