DEGREE PROGRAMS IN ARTS AND SCIENCES
BACHELOR’S DEGREE
ASSOCIATES DEGREE
The Department of Arts and Sciences is designed for students who have a passion for writing, language, and literature. Students become critical and creative thinkers through the study of various literature genres and writing styles. The strong curriculum is delivered by dedicated faculty who understand the value and power of words.
WRS 599 – Capstone Applied Research Project: 3 credits
With the capstone project, students will demonstrate skills acquired in the masters program which include theological reflection, methodological implementation, assessment of findings, and recommendations for ministry. The research problem should be rooted in the local church and the findings made available to The University of Valley Forge Library. The paper will be presented according to the standards of UVF requirements. A handbook will be provided with the criteria for the project.
WRS 595 – Worship Practicum: 3 credits
Students will choose a ministry project directly related to his/her ministry. A supervisor will be approved by the college to work individually with the student in the preparation and presentation of the ministry project. Appropriate records of the project should be submitted to the college upon completion. For the Minister of Music this project might be a musical presentation at his/her church. For the Senior Pastor this project might be a teaching series on worship.
WRS 545 – The Senior Pastor—Lead Worshiper (Preaching track): 3 credits
This class will examine the challenges of the senior pastor as the Lead Worshiper of the congregation. The pastor establishes the context for the worship service and must also manage the calendar of worship. He/she must also take the lead in structuring and encouraging the private worship of the
congregation. Leadership of paid staff and volunteers will also be emphasized.
WRS 540 – Developing and Leading the Worship Team: Vocalists, Instrumentalists: 3 credits
This course will explore the ministry of those making the music and operating the technical equipment of the contemporary worship service. The recruitment, preparation, and spirituality of these highly skilled individuals will be the focus of this class.
WRS 525 – Worship Leadership: 3 credits
The planning and leading of public and private worship throughout the year will be the focus of this course. The distinct yet complimentary roles of the senior pastor, the worship leader and the worship team (including technicians) will be explored. The course will conclude with a series of worship services, planned and lead by the student.
WRS 520 – Pastoring a Worshiping Community: 3 credits
Issues of church planting, renewal and growth will be the emphasis of this course. Key questions of the building of community, the flow of authority and responsibility in the local church, and the use of the arts in worship will be explored. The course will conclude with a research project on a contemporary ministry challenge.
WRS 515 – Historical Foundations of Worship: 3 credits
The history of the church, prior to the 20th Century Pentecostal Revival, will be examined with an eye to changing worship expressions and methods through
the centuries. Each era of the church will be analyzed in the light of scripture and patterns of conflict and resolution will be explored. The course will conclude with a research project on an historical subject.
WRS 510 – Biblical Foundations of Worship: 3 credits
The Biblical Theology of worship is presented in this course. The unity and contrasts of the Old and New Covenants, the seven biblical models of worship, and definitions of key New Testament terms will be explored.
WRS 505 – Pentecostal Spirituality: 3 credits
This course will be an exploration of Pentecostal life and ministry. Emphasis will be placed on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in private and public worship. The history and the practice of the 20th/21st Century Pentecostalism, including the charismatic and Praise and Worship renewals of the last 50 years will be examined. Current trends will also be analyzed. The course will conclude with a research project on a contemporary theme.
CHM 441 – Worship Leadership I: 1 credit
This lab-based course provides individual mentorship to Church Music and Worship Leading majors as they lead worship in a variety of settings. This class is designed to cover the practical aspects of leading worship. Course should be taken during the sophomore year.
Prerequisite: CHM 101
MUS 891 – Applied Music Instruction – String Instruments: Credits 1-2
Lessons on an instrument from the string family designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 881 – Applied Music Instruction – Brass Instruments: Credits 1-2
Lessons on an instrument from the brass family designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 871 – Applied Music Instruction – Woodwind Instruments: Credits 1-2
Lessons on an instrument from the woodwind family designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 861 – Applied Music Instruction – Percussion: Credits 1-2
Lessons on an instrument from the percussion family designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 851 – Applied Music Instruction – Guitar: Credits 1-2
Lessons on guitar designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 841 – Applied Music Instruction – Voice: Credits 1-2
Lessons on voice designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 831 – Applied Music Instruction – Organ: Credits 1-2
Lessons on organ designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 821 – Applied Music Instruction – Piano: Credits 1-2
Lessons on piano designed to develop knowledge of literature and skills in performance and reading.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
MUS 800 – Applied Conducting: Credits 1-2
Lessons in conducting are designed to refine conducting technique and further explore choral or instrumental literature.
MUS 690 – Applied Composition: 1 credit
Lessons are structured to encourage creativity and to lead to the development of a unique individual style of composition. Initial lessons provide experiences in the style of major composers from the Baroque, Classic, Romantic, Impressionist, and Contemporary periods. Students will give attention to musical expression when writing for vocal and instrumental ensembles, and for various performers, occasions and media. Students enroll for 1 credit per semester and may repeat this course.
MUS 580-89 – Special Topics in Music Technology: 1-3 credits
The objective of these graduate-level courses is to provide students with the latest information on current topics in music technology. The relationship of the topic to the student’s profession will be emphasized. The courses will include reading assignments, and discussion of relevant research and historical contexts. Students will be evaluated based upon participation in class, performance on assignments, and a midterm and final exam.
MUS 570-79 – Special Topics in Music Education: 1-3 credits
The objective of these graduate-level courses is to provide students with the latest information on current topics in music education. The relationship of the topic to the student’s profession will be emphasized . The courses will include reading assignments, and discussion of relevant research and historical contexts. Students will be evaluated based upon participation in class, performance on assignments, and a midterm and final exam.
MUS 560-69 – Special Topics in Music History & Music Theory: 1-3 credits
The objective of these graduate-level courses is to provide students with the latest information on current topics in music history or music theory. The relationship of the topic to the student’s profession will be emphasized. The courses will include reading assignments, and discussion of relevant research and historical contexts. Students will be evaluated based upon participation in class, performance on assignments, and a midterm and final exam.
MUS 550-59 – Special Topics in Music: 1-3 credits
The objective of these graduate-level courses is to provide students with the latest information on current topics in music. The relationship of the topic to the student’s profession will be emphasized. The courses will include reading assignments, and discussion of relevant research and historical contexts . Students will be evaluated based upon participation in class, performance on assignments, and a midterm and final exam.
MUS 560 – Analysis of Beethoven Piano Sonatas: 3 credits
This course is an in-depth analysis of several of the 32 Beethoven Piano Sonatas. Special attention is given to detailed analysis of harmony, tonal design, thematic interrelationships, recurring musical ideas, use of dissonances, formal structure, and metric ambiguity. The course includes score study, a listening exam and an analysis paper.
MUS 535 – Composition & Arranging for School Bands: 3 credits
Students will create original compositions, arrangements, and transcriptions for band. Topics will include getting works published, the process for submitting unsolicited scores to publishers; the criteria for various levels of school band music, and creating the best demo recording. Participants will compose and/or arrange pieces for students in their ensembles.
MUS 530 – Seminar in Music History: 3 credits
This course will provide an overview of music history from earliest recorded history through the present.
Prerequisite: Sufficient score on entrance exam.
MUS 525 – The History of Jazz: 3 credits
To introduce the student to jazz music with an overview of historical events, music, and social impact connected to the genre. An appreciation of this music will be encouraged through the emphasis of style, genre, and form representing the performers and composers along with their respective biographical data.
MUS 520 – Advanced Chromatic Harmony: 3 credits
This course will provide an overview of music theory of the common practice period through the present.
Prerequisite: Sufficient score on entrance exam.
MUS 515 – Research Project: 3 credits
This course will consist of a major written project that reflects graduate-level research, creativity, and artistry in an area of study agreed upon and under the direct supervision of a professor who has specialization in the chosen topic of study in keeping with the degree. The final project must receive committee approval. If the project is not completed in one semester a project extension fee of $815 will be applied each semester until project is completed.
Prerequisites: MUS 510
Fee: $815
MUS 510 – Research Methodology: 3 credits
This course will train the student in the advanced skills of scholarly research, design, writing and documentation as a direct preparation for the final research project of the degree. An emphasis will be given to research techniques in music and music technology.
MTN 595 – Foundations of Music Technology: 3 credits
A study of the philosophical and historical fundamentals of music technology. Covers purposes of media and music technology, principles of effective communication and musical performance, criteria for defining quality, principles of organizational leadership, applicable laws, and research and concerns within the discipline.
MTN 580 – Applied Mixing: Credits 1-2
Offered at all levels of instruction. Projects would include mixing small and large ensembles of classical and contemporary instruments according to the student’s ability.
MTN 555 – Advanced Digital Video: 3 credits
Advanced Digital Video covers advanced techniques for recording, editing and storing video. Professional recording equipment will be used. All video projects will be stored on high-quality media but videos will also be converted to compressed formats. In-service teachers who complete this course will create several recordings appropriate for music instruction in the K-12 classroom. The format of the course will alternate presentations with class activities in which student progress is assessed and in which the material presented is reinforced. Evaluation will be through written homework, completion of class projects, and the submission of a final project demonstrating techniques learned in class.
Prerequisite: MTN 550
MTN 551 – Pro Tools Professional (Graduate): 3 credits
The coursework covers the core concepts and skills required to operate Pro Tools in a professional studio environment. The main topics in this course are followed by exercises that bring the student step-by-step through the Pro Tools functions that are critical for successful work in the digital audio field. Students will have access to Pro Tools Flex software. The course uses official AVID courseware including Pro Tools 201: Pro Tools Production II and Pro Tools 210 M: Music Production Techniques. Students may achieve Pro Tools Professional Certification upon successful completion of the 201 & 210 Certification Exams. Prerequisites: MTN 253 & 423 or MTN 545 and successful completion of ProTools Specialist Certification.
MTN 550 – Digital Video: 3 credits
Digital Video covers techniques for recording, editing and storing video. Entry-level and professional recording equipment will be used. All video projects will be stored on high-quality media but videos will also be converted to compressed formats. In-service teachers who complete this course will create several videos appropriate for music instruction in the K-12 classroom. The format of the course will alternate presentations with class activities in which student progress is assessed and in which the material presented is reinforced. Evaluation will be through written homework, completion of class projects, and the submission of a final project demonstrating techniques learned in class.
MTN 545 – Pro Tools Specialist (Graduate): 3 credits
This course provides fundamental overview of the digital audio recording system Pro Tools . An exploration of Pro Tools principles including necessary skills to complete a Pro Tools project from initial set up to final mix . Projects including recording live instruments, MIDI sequencing of software synthesizers, or audio editing or region looping an all the key concepts and skills needed to operate a Pro Tools system at the User level will be examined. The course will cover official AVID courseware for ProTools 101 and PT 110. Successful completion of the official exams will lead to Pro Tools Specialist certification.
MTN 540 – Digital Audio: 3 credits
This course explores modern techniques for recording, editing, mixing, storing, and sharing sound in digital form. Consumer grade and professional recording equipment will be used . Students will work with Apple Garage Band and Avid Pro Tools. This course is designed for the experienced computer user.
Qualified students may request permission to substitute advanced MTN courses.
MTN 535 – Sound Reinforcement: 3 credits
This course will cover selecting, setting up and operating a sound system to achieve the best musical results. Topics include microphones, mixers, amplifiers, monitoring systems, effects, cables, wiring, acoustics, training, communications during performance, soundboard principles, and techniques for effective mixing.
MTN 530 – Digital Music Production and MIDI: 3 credits
This hands-on course is designed to build advanced skills in music production using Digital Audio Workstations and MIDI. The material will include explanations and demonstrations of specific programming, recording, editing, and arranging techniques for creating dynamic, musical productions in any musical style.
Pre-requisite: MTN 540 or permission
MTN 511 – Sibelius Certification: 3 credits
A course designed to train instrumental, choral, and classroom music specialists to use Sibelius for notating and printing music. Participants will learn how to input music using an external keyboard and print out scores and parts. Topics include: transposing band and orchestra parts; printing a choral score; music notation problem solving; incorporation of notation examples into Word documents; composing and arranging music; and using notation software with students. Participants will bring several examples of music notation to be entered during the course. Successful completion of exams will lead to Sibelius certification.
MTN 510 – Advanced Notation (Finale): 3 credits
This course is designed to train instrumental, choral, and classroom music specialists to use Finale for notating and printing music. Participants will learn how to input music using an external keyboard and print out scores and parts. Topics include: transposing band and orchestra parts; printing a choral score; music notation problem solving; incorporation of notation examples into word processors; composing and arranging music; and using notation software with students. Participants will bring several examples of music notation to be entered during the course.
MED 530 – Integrating Technology into the Music Curriculum: 3 credits
This course will provide a venue for creating lesson plans and study units to integrate technology into the K-12 music curriculum. Participants should be familiar with most of the common applications of music technology including music notation software, music production, the internet, and electronic instruments. Participants will incorporate music and other materials and activities from their curriculum into technology projects. The course will be taught in a hands-on environment. This course is designed for the teacher who has experience using technology as the goal is to apply the use of technology in the instructional setting. This course will not teach how to use software.
Prerequisites: MED 510 and MED 520, or completed a minimum of 2 courses in music technology, or comparable experience using music production software.
MED 520 – Multimedia & Instructional Applications: 3 credits
The course will cover using computer instructional software, configuring and using computers on networks and the internet, and the basics of using digital media in K-12 education. Participants will explore ways to incorporate these tools into the curriculum. The course will be taught in a hands-on environment.
MED 510 – Notation & Music Production for K-12 Education: 3 credits
The course will cover basic skills in music notation, music production, and electronic instruments in K-12 education. Participants will explore many ways to incorporate these tools into the curriculum. The course will be taught in a hands- on environment. Satisfactory participation in class activities and successful completion of several projects will be required.
SPE 617 – Strategies and Early Intervention for Students with Low Incidence Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the teaching of students with low incidence disabilities. Students will learn to implement general teaching strategies that are effective in working with students with disabilities as well as specific strategies for teaching daily living skills, encouraging motor development and encouraging social development. The course will also examine the successful implementation of early and middle level education intervention services and effective transition techniques for students with low incidence disabilities. There will be an emphasis on the characteristics, development and teaching of students with specific low- incidence disabilities.
This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
SPE 616 – Strategies and Early Intervention for Students with High Incidence Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the teaching of students with high incidence disabilities. Students will learn to implement general teaching strategies that are effective in working with students with disabilities as well as specific strategies for teaching literacy, math, science, and social studies. The course will also examine the successful implementation of early and middle level education intervention services, the creation of standards based IEP goals, and effective transition techniques for students with disabilities. There will be an emphasis on the characteristics and development of students with specific high-incidence disabilities.
This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
SPE 615 – Language and Literacy for Students with Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the literacy and language instruction of students with disabilities. Students will learn about the development and prevalence of reading disabilities. Students will also learn about implementing best practice strategies to ensure high quality literacy instruction as well as how to implement a Response to Intervention model in order to provide evidence based interventions for struggling students. There will be a strong emphasis on understanding, assessing, and managing literacy instruction using data informed decision-making. The course will also review the procedure for developing IEP goal in the area of literacy.
This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
SPE 614 – Behavioral Interventions for Students with Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the implementation of classroom management theories as it pertains to working with students with disabilities. Students will learn about implementing the Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) model as well as practical strategies for working with students in the classroom with behavior challenges. The course will examine the current mandates and legislation related to behavior management of students with disabilities in school. There will be a strong emphasis on understanding, assessing, and managing behavior using data informed decision-making. The course will introduce students to the use and development of functional behavior assessments to develop behavior intervention plans.
This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
EDU 671/672 – Student Teaching: 6 credits
Candidates will apply theory to practice in this culminating 14-week (two semester) student teaching experience. Through placement with an experienced mentor teacher and under the supervision of a university supervisor, candidates will plan and implement instruction with appropriate accommodations and adaptations, assess and analyze learning, and maintain a positive and productive learning environment for students. Candidates will demonstrate ethical and professional behaviors toward students, cooperating teachers and other school personnel, and families. A student teaching fee will be applied to each student teaching semester. Students in SPE dual certification program must be placed in an inclusive classroom and mentored by both the classroom teacher and a special education specialist.
SPE 613 – Teaching Students with Exceptionalities in Inclusive Settings: 3 credits
This course provides an overview of the basic characteristics and unique educational needs of individuals who have been determined to be exceptional in the areas of, but not limited to, learning disabilities, mental impairment, emotional and/or behavioral disorders, mental health disorders and multiple and severe disabilities. Students will explore the theoretical basis and practice of inclusion of students who are eligible to receive special education services under IDEA guidelines in the general education classroom. Students will identify the role and legal rights of families of individuals with exceptionalities, and will examine best practices for inclusion, assessment, and collaboration within the educational setting.
This course includes a 10 hour field experience.
EDU 543 – Professional Practice in and out of the Classroom: 3 credits
This course focuses on teaching essential skills and strategies for designing and maintaining productive learning environments that are supportive, respectful, and challenging for all students in the public school setting. Teacher candidates will apply Danielson’s Framework, Pennsylvania’s Code of Conduct, and NAEYC’s Code of Ethical Conduct to management strategies with emphasis on the classroom environment and professionalism outside the classroom. Candidates will explore strategies to foster communication and collaboration with families.
This course includes a 10 hour field experience.
EDU 643 – The ESL Program Specialist: Instruction and Assessment: 3 credits
This class is the final course in the ESL program specialist certification series. The student will discover the role of an ESL program specialist in the Pennsylvania public school. Current trends and best practices that contribute to English learners’ success will be studied. This course includes a structured and extensive field experience where the student will work closely with an ESL program specialist to meet the needs academic, social and emotional needs of the English learner.
Prerequisites: EDU 640, 641 and 642
EDU 642 – Methods of Language Acquisition: 3 credits
This course is a theoretical and practical exploration of the ways humans acquire language. Students will explore strategies that assist English learners in the K-12 classroom. They will develop activities that can be used to promote communicative competence and techniques that aid English learners in mastering vocabulary. Myths surrounding language acquisition will also be discussed.
Ten hours of field experience are required.
Prerequisites: EDU 640 and 641
EDU 641 – Linguistics: 3 credits
This course will provide teachers with the knowledge of linguistic concepts for effective teaching of English language learners, including phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics. Social versus academic language and the use of the first language as a resource will be stressed. This course requires a ten-hour field experience working with a mentor teacher in an English learner setting.
Prerequisites: EDU 640
EDU 640 – Methods of Teaching English Learners: 3 credits
This course will provide a foundation for students to teach English learners in ELL classes and mainstream content-area classes in public and private schools in the United States and internationally. Included are the stages and theories of second language acquisition, competencies in observing, planning, and implementing differentiated instruction, WIDA Can-Do descriptors and assessments, Pennsylvania English Language Proficiency Standards, and cross-cultural communication with stakeholders. Ten hours of supervised field experience in an English Learner setting are required.
EDU 663 – Inquiry Methods for Science and Social Studies: 3 credits
This course is designed to provide teacher candidates with the tools and strategies to plan, implement, and assess instruction in the content areas of social studies and science. Candidates will utilize constructivist learning theory and the inquiry-based approach in designing and delivering effective classroom experiences for students, and will design integrated curriculum based on Pennsylvania’s Standards Aligned System that will be differentiated for English learners and other special populations. This course includes a 10 hour field experience.
EDU 633 – Methods of Teaching Math: 3 credits
Through this course, teacher candidates will study the “teaching for, about, and through” problem-solving model of mathematics instruction. Candidates will gain experience in designing and delivering equitable learning for all students (including special needs and linguistically diverse students) and in helping students build both conceptual and procedural knowledge of mathematics. The course will also address arts, technology, and children’s literature integration in the math classroom. This course includes a 10 hour field experience.
EDU 604 – Action Research Project or Thesis: 3 credits
This course offers students guided development of a Master’s Thesis or Action Research Project. With faculty guidance and feedback, students will develop a hypothesis, outline, and detailed research proposal and will develop their proposal into a paper or project that shows mastery of the concepts explored in the program. This course must be taken during the final semester of the program.
Pre-requisite: EDU 504 Analyzing and Designing Educational Research
EDU 603 – Literacy Methods & Differentiated Reading: 3 credits Interventions
This course includes an in-depth examination of literacy assessment and instruction in reading and writing. Focused on balanced and comprehensive literacy, students will study topics related to how children learn to read and write such as reading processes, miscue analysis, reading fluency, comprehension, literary response and writing. Both directed and guided reading instruction, as well as the role of phonics in reading and spelling, will be addressed to design effective instruction for the diverse needs in today’s classroom. This course includes a 10 hour field experience.
EDU 602 – Language Development & Literacy Foundations: 3 credits
This course explores the theories of language development with particular emphasis on the cognitive, linguistic, and socio-cultural factors that influence language and literacy learning. Students will demonstrate knowledge of key concepts with assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs. Students will develop pedagogical skills in assessing, modifying, and implementing curriculum in the areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with emphasis on language and reading comprehension, expressive skills, phonological development, word level instruction, and reading-writing connections. This course includes a 10-hour field experience.
EDU 601 – Critical Studies in Juvenile Literature: 3 credits
Based on the premise that “All truth is God’s truth” ( John Calvin) and that “Fiction is the lie through which we tell the truth” (Albert Camus), this course explores the importance of juvenile literature in discovering the truth of human experience across social strata. Through this course, students will engage with children’s and young adult literature and literary criticism that focuses on the lived experiences of children and youth in contemporary K-12 classrooms.
EDU 600 – Literacy Leadership: 3 credits
This course explores best leadership practices for developing effective literacy programs in a school-based setting. Topics include cultivating leadership skills, practicing Christian leadership in public settings, developing a collaborative literacy community, and the organization, management, and evaluation of effective school literacy programs.
EDU 513 – Foundational Theories of Education and Human Development: 3 credits
This course examines the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children and adolescents through consideration of the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to children and youth. Teacher candidates will explore multiple influences on development such as family, culture, gender, media, and the importance of play. In addition, candidates will investigate historical foundations of education and the resulting educational approaches as they exist today.
EDU 504 – Analyzing and Designing Educational Research: 3 credits
This course offers an introduction to qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods for the education professional. Students will explore research methods and designs and ethical considerations in research, and will begin planning their own culminating Action Research Project or Thesis.
EDU 503 – Curriculum Theory and Design: 3 credits
Through this course, in-service teachers and teacher candidates will examine theoretical perspectives in curriculum theory and design and will plan instruction that utilizes best practices, with emphasis on the Understanding by Design model of unit and lesson planning as well as methods of differentiation. Candidates will consider how technology in the classroom both aids and hinders instruction, and will apply the Danielson Framework domains of planning, preparation, and instruction to curriculum construction.
EDU 502 – Assessment: Issues, Trends, & Best Practice: 3 credits
This course explores major concepts, principles, and methodologies related to assessment. Students will analyze the political and social atmosphere that produced legal actions such as No Child Left Behind, Race to the Top, Common Core Standards and Every Child Succeeds Act and their effect on students, educators, and administrators. Then, students will investigate formal and informal assessments and learn how to use the data generated from them to improve learning for students of all backgrounds and ability levels.
EDU 501 – Multicultural Education and Culturally Responsive Pedagogy: 3 credits
This course consists of an in-depth study of the educational implications of race, gender, language, and social class in American schools. Based on the biblical mandate to minister to people from all backgrounds, this course will encourage in-service teachers to consider the experience of diverse groups of students with understanding and compassion, and to develop skills in practicing culturally responsive pedagogy in diverse educational settings.
EDU 500 – Foundations and Issues of Education from a Christian Perspective: 3 credits
Through this course, students will study the social and philosophical foundations of Western education from a Christian perspective. Students will explore the contributions of significant Christian thinkers to modern educational systems and will analyze current issues in education through the lens of these philosophical roots.
MOL 656 – Operations Management: 3 credits
This course reviews the management of operations in manufacturing, service, non-profit and government organizations. Topics include a review of the activities and responsibilities of operations management, the tools and techniques available to assist in running the operation, and the factors considered in the design of the system.
MOL 655 – Business Law: 3 credits
This course prepares students for leadership in business by focusing upon improving legal literacy by examining the legal environment and considering potential legal issues in the business world and how law affect all aspects of business.
THE 570 – Cross-Cultural Theology: 3 credits
This course explores the ways in which culture intersects with and informs the task of theology. Students will explore biblical, historical, and contemporary examples of cultural influences, on theology both positively and negatively. In doing so, students will be better equipped to appreciate the theological contributions of diverse peoples and nations participating in the Missio Dei, “the mission of God”.
PHL 520 – Apologetics Classical to Contemporary: 3 credits
This course will consist of an exploration and analysis of the principles of apologetics and their application to contemporary culture. Theological, philosophical, historical, scientific, anthropological, psychological, and other dimensions will be considered.
PHL 505 – Spirituality and Philosophical Thought: 3 credits
This course will examine spirituality and its development in philosophical thought through the centuries, how it has shaped Eastern and Western thought and approaches to spirituality and where it has left us in our understanding of spirituality today on a philosophical level. Spiritual formation approaches will be examined in this course.
THE 525 – The Interface of Theology and Psychology: 3 credits
This course will examine the different approaches in relating the long traditions of theological inquiry with the more recent influential theories of psychology. Issues that will be discussed include: human nature, the notion of sin, the concept of salvation/sanctification, and the goal of spiritual and psychological wellness. The role of the Holy Spirit and human agents, as divine and people facilitators respectfully, will be explored.
Prerequisites: THE 505 and 515 or 520
THE 520 – Theology: Classic and Contemporary: 3 credits
This course is a discovery of theological systems used throughout Church history and into the present with a particular focus on contemporary developments. Special attention is given to biblical foundations, philosophical presuppositions, psychosocial forces, and the practical consequences of these developments in the life of the Church and the quest for truth.
THE 515 – Theological Methods: 3 credits
This course explores various approaches to doing theology so that the student may more effectively evaluate various theological systems and approaches. Students will think critically about the resources, assumptions, goals, and outcomes of various ways of doing theology in global contexts.
THE 510 – Distinctives of Pentecostal Theology: 3 credits
This course examines the unique contributions to theology being made by Pentecostal scholars. Attention will be given to the diverse origins of the Pentecostal movement and how various theology streams have shaped and been transformed by Pentecostal theology and practice.
MOL 691 – Church Revitalization Capstone Project: 3 credits
This capstone course offers students an opportunity to think critically and reflectively about what they have learned in the program in the context of church revitalization. Utilizing online discussions, independent research materials, and peer and faculty feedback, students will be guided through a process to develop a final project demonstrating a mastery of program content.
MOL 690 – Capstone Project: 3 credits
This capstone course offers students the opportunity to think critically and practically about what they have learned in the program. Students will be guided through a process to develop a final project demonstrating a mastery of program content.
MOL 651 – Discipleship and Equipping Ministry: 3 credits
A biblical foundation for understanding Christian discipleship through both academic study and a community lab experience. Attention is given to both personal development and the discipleship of others.
MOL 650 – Leading Change in Church Revitalization: 3 credits
This course focuses upon the important role of people in the church during the revitalization process. Topics addressed include people-focused leadership, team development and team dynamics, servant leadership, and the important role of leaders in mentoring individuals to become effective followers and leaders.
MOL 640 – People and Talent Management: 3 credits
This course is based on the idea that people are at the center of God’s heart and are the most valuable resource in any organization. Students will hone their ability to balance efficient organizations with intentional, people- focused management. Critical issues covered will include servant leadership, ethical management, employee development, teams, succession planning, board dynamics, and organizational culture.
MOL 632 – Team Building & Mentoring: 3 credits
This course examines the relationship between organizational leaders and followers in the context of teams and mentoring. Students will learn how to effectively lead and develop teams by using team development skills and team dynamics theories. Students will also learn the important role of leaders in mentoring individuals to become effective followers and leaders.
MOL 631 – Strategic Planning and Organizational Change – Church Revitalization Track: 3 Credits
This course explores the role of leadership in leading organizational change through strategic thinking and strategic planning in the context of church revitalization. Vision, mission, values, organizational culture, are emphasized . Students will also learn the reasons for resistance to change and to successfully overcome them and navigate the organization through the process of change. Various kinds of strategies and controls used to develop the organization’s direction to achieve success are also addressed.
MOL 630 – Strategic Planning & Organizational Change – Organizational Leadership Track: 3 credits
This course explores the role of leadership in leading organizational change through strategic thinking and strategic planning. Vision, mission, values, organizational culture, are emphasized. Students will also learn the reasons for resistance to change and to successfully overcome them and navigate the organization through the process of change. Various kinds of strategies and controls used to develop the organization’s direction to achieve success are also addressed.
MOL 625 – Finance for the Executive Leader: 3 credits
This course examines the requirements of an effective financial accounting and reporting system and the interpretation of financial reports for proprietary, non-profit, and governmental organizations. Explores decision processes and models for evaluating finance-related options, investing and managing cash, managing and preventing risk, and allocating financial, human, and capital resources. Explores the use of focus groups decision matrices, control charts, and other tools to investigate problems, analyze data and information, and identify potential solutions.
MOL 620 – Communications, Marketing and Community Relations: 3 credits
This course discusses the role of public relations in customer relations, stakeholder communications, and business development. Two key areas receive special focus: 1) Emphasis on an integrated approach with other marketing tools and the importance of ethics and integrity in public communication about the organization and its products and services, and 2) Exploration of concepts that are essential and adaptable to organizations of any size or type, including nonprofits, government, small businesses, and corporations.
MOL 610 – Special Topics: 3 credits
A course that covers topics of current interest in the field of business administration. Specific topics are identified in the course schedule.
MOL 515 – Data Analytics: 3 credits
This course examines the development and use of systems for information and knowledge management for individuals, teams, and enterprises. The transformative process of gathering and analyzing data to provide information which contributes to the knowledge necessary for decision support (non-financial) will be emphasized) Business analytics and tools will be reviewed including assessment methods, measurements, statistical analysis, data mining techniques, visual presentation, and critical thinking techniques for decision making. The process as well as tools will be applied to the support of daily operations within organizations and the measurement and analysis of organizational performance. Additionally, the governance of data, information, and knowledge including security will be discussed.
MOL 506 – Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: 3 credits
This course examines the leader’s role in resolving conflict as well as the negotiation skills required for organizational leaders as they relate to professional workplace settings. Students will learn negotiation skills for resolving conflict by examining research, theory and best practices.
MOL 505 – Human Resource Management: 3 credit
This course examines the organizational human resource function and contemporary techniques for managing human resources, giving particular attention to the manager/leader as strategic partner, employee champion, administrative expert, and change agent. Case Studies will be utilized to discuss such topics as discrimination, diversity, gender issues, generational differences, and maximizing the potential of employees.
MOL 502 – Research Methods: 3 credits
This course examines the various research methods including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods . Students will be introduced to tools and resources such as the academic research journal database used to conduct research . Graduate writing techniques including the use of the APA writing style will also be addressed.
MOL 501 – Foundations in Leadership: 3 credits
This course will provide an overview of leadership theories and examine leadership from three perspectives: the personal side of leadership, leading others, and leading organizations. Particular attention will be given to personal leadership development strategies, servant leadership, and leading with a biblical worldview.
MOL 500 – Organizational Design and Effectiveness: 3 credits
This course focuses on understanding organizational dynamics Christian leaders use to mobilize their people and other resources to achieve desired ministry/business results. Students will examine organizational effectiveness focusing upon the important roles of organizational design, organizational change, and leadership communication.
DIG 699 – Directed Project in Digital Media II: 3 Credits
Students will continue work on the Directed Project that was initiated in DIG 698. Students will focus on production and/or research and writing to bring the project to successful completion. The project will reflect graduate-level digital media skills within the student’s area of expertise. Directed Project will be presented to faculty for approval in order to successfully complete the course.
Digital Media Capstone Project Fee: $800
DIG 698 – Directed Project in Digital Media I: 3 Credits
The Directed Project is the capstone project of the program where the student will explore and develop a technologically immersive and practical project that reflects graduate-level aesthetic, technical, and research skills. The project will be agreed upon and under the direct supervision of a digital media professor. The student will:
1) Select an appropriate project within the student’s area of interest.
2) Complete initial research and writing of the research paper exploring the overall purpose and process of the project.
3) Strategize and begin execution of project work. The Directed Project will be completed in DIG 699.
Digital Media Capstone Project Fee: $800
DIG 640 – Multi-Platform Media Production: 3 credits
This course helps students produce and prepare media for deliverables across a variety of possible platforms. New technology is explored in relation to audience experience with story . Students will explore of the three phases of production— funding, production, and distribution—as approached in both old (terrestrial and broadcast) and new (interactive and user-generated media) models.
DIG 630 – Law, Policy and Ethics in Online Communication: 3 credits
This course addresses topics relating to historical and current law and policy of the internet, and ethical considerations from a Christian perspective. Topics include internet censorship, intellectual property, copyright, and appropriate conduct in developing online content. Through the use of case studies and independent research, students explore the internet’s impact on, and the role of media and communication in the development of our culture’s—and their own—worldview.
DIG 620 – New Marketing in Digital Media: 3 credits
This course addresses current and developing digital media marketing strategies, theories, and principles in both traditional and new media environments. Identification and engagement of target audiences in social media, online video, mobile and location-based media, and emerging technologies are discussed. Other topics include establishing marketing goals and assessment of new trends of internet advertisement.
DIG 610 – Leadership Development in Digital Media: 3 credits
This course will prepare students to lead teams and to develop and equip other leaders. Students will demonstrate leadership skills, as well as create processes for team building in digital media environments. The course will include examples of creative approaches to leadership and how leaders can generate and maintain creativity to effectively develop and lead a group of people to accomplish outstanding goals and products.
DIG 573 – Advanced Analytics for Social Media: 3 credits
This course explores the measurement of social media efforts through the collection of data from across the web, applying advanced text-mining techniques and exploring the latest analytics technologies. Students will learn how to acquire, analyze and summarize data from social platforms including but not limited to: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, GitHub, email, websites, and blogs.
DIG 563 – Corporate Brand Communications: 3 credits
Study how employees are brand icons and evangelists. Explore how professional communicators understand the dynamics cultivating and maximizing potential employees in the brand development process. Precedents include: Starbuck’s Coffee baristas, Apple Store geniuses, Southwest Airlines flight attendants, Ritz Carlton doormen, and other organizational employees as an integral dimension of the brands of those organizations. Examine how these employee’s sincere belief and support of brand attributes and claims is a strong motivator of quality production.
DIG 541 – Graphic Design and Photography Workshop: 3 credits
This workshop provides the opportunity for students to build skills in photography and graphic design in a variety of mediums . Students will expand on their previous experience using professional grade hardware and software technologies available in the university labs . Students will have the benefit of interaction with peers with a variety of skills and experiences.
DIG 540 – Design & Aesthetic Development Workshop: 3 credits
This course will explore various ways to develop and measure the success of design and aesthetics. Students are encouraged to examine outside research and apply persuasive and creative techniques to compelling presentations. Objective principles of design are applied to a variety of finished projects, with students demonstrating effective use of words and visuals in conjunction with critical thinking and reasoning.
DIG 535 – Digital Media Special Topics – Graduate: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
DIG 530 – Advanced Video: 3 credits
This workshop gives students the opportunity to build skills while producing projects in a variety of mediums, using multiple platforms. Students gain advanced experience and understanding of the latest emerging hardware and software technologies.
DIG 520 – Media Literacy, Culture, & the Christian: 3 credits
In this course, students critically examine media projects from the real world, analyzing them through the perspective of modern culture and Christianity . Students will assess bias, stereotypes, and sources, as well as how categories of race, class, gender, and religion are represented in mainstream and independent media.
DIG 510 – Qualitative Research Methodology: 3 credits
This course will train the student in the advanced skills of research methodologies within media studies, reviewing literature and various resources . Students will develop a media research proposal, create a literature review, form research questions, and study various research methods. An emphasis will be given to research techniques in traditional and new media.
COM 540 – Strategic Communication Theory: 3 credits
This course will ground students in communication theory orienting them to theoretical and ethical issues involved in strategic discourse. Students will trace historical and contemporary issues in the development of communication study. The course examines meaning-making and its consequences in various contexts.
SOC/THE 599 – Research Project: 6 credits
This course will consist of a major written project that reflects graduate- level research and writing on an area of study agreed upon and under the direct supervision of a professor who has specialization in the chosen topic of study in keeping with the degree. The final project must receive committee approval.
Prerequisite: SOC/THE 595
SOC/THE 595 – Research Dynamics: 3 credits
This course will train the student in the advanced skills of scholarly research, design, writing and documentation as a direct preparation for the final research project of the degree. The student must receive an “A” or a “B” is this course to proceed to the final Research Project. A “C” will require the student to retake SOC/THE 595.
SOC 570 – Cross-Cultural Leadership: 3 credits
This course will consist of a stateside or international experience in which the student will be under the supervision of a leader in a field experience of cross- cultural ministry as defined by factors of belief, economics, education, gender, language, race, etc. Settings may include: local ministries, media centers, mega- churches, missions, universities, etc. Reading, interviews, reflections, etc . will be used to help the student better understand their cultural presuppositions and to develop principles and theological concepts that may be applied in a number of cross-cultural settings.
LED 525 – Organizational Leadership & Communication: 3 credits
This course will analyze organizational structures, styles, conflict management, personalities and the impact that they have upon an organization and its development, along with the essentials of effective communication channels to nurture an organization so that it can identify well-articulated processes for decision making and team involvement. Areas of study will also include budgeting, scheduling, staff management, committee structures, leadership and communication . Ethical issues will be addressed to focus upon organizational integrity.
LED 520 – Creative Leadership: 3 credits
This course will examine extensive examples of creative approaches to leadership and how leaders can generate and maintain creativity to effectively develop and lead a group of people to accomplish outstanding goals. Characteristics of visionary leaders will be examined, exploration of their leadership habits and spiritual disciplines for effective visionary leadership and strategies for conceiving vision and implementing tools for visionary leadership.
LED 515 – Developing Leaders: 3 credits
This course will work from the foundation that quality leaders develop and equip other leaders. The focus will be to present a workable process on how to develop leaders and equip a team of leaders to work effectively together with understanding and mutual regard to accomplish God-given purposes and goals and then multiply leaders. Surveys of present leadership development materials, as well as transferable concepts from leadership programs will be analyzed.
Prerequisite: LED 505 or 510
LED 510 – The Leader & Leadership Development: 3 credits
This course will address the spiritual formation, psychological development, health and well-being, discipline and ethical decision making of the leader as well as ongoing care and development needed in order to be a truly effective leader.
LED 505 – Biblical Leadership Models: 3 credits
This course will examine and analyze the variety of leadership models found within both the Old and New Testaments, examine why particular models of leadership were required at particular times and how New Testament leadership is presented and developed in light of the Christological model and its implications for Christians in leadership today. Special emphasis will be placed upon knowledge, skills, attitudes and values involved in “servant leadership.”
PHL 530 – Ethics Classical to Contemporary: 3 credits
This course will consist of an exploration and analysis of the principles of ethics and their application to contemporary culture. Theological, philosophical, historical, scientific, anthropological, psychological, and other dimensions will be considered.
THE 505 – Art and Science of Biblical Interpretation: 3 credits
This course will examine the science of hermeneutical analysis, processes, and methods in which one can derive the most accurate and valid interpretation of passages of the Bible. Due consideration will be given to the art involved in integrating various lines of thought in the Bible to accomplish an adequate understanding and application of any passage in the Bible.
YTH 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Youth Ministry: 1-3 credits
Special Topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
YTH 413 – Youth Ministry Leadership: 3 credits
This course focuses on growing healthy relationships with the senior pastor, youth ministry staff, congregation, and community. Students will learn how to recruit and develop volunteer staff and plan and implement youth services, outreaches, and special events that reflect the vision of the local church and the needs represented within the community.
YTH 173 – Introduction to Youth Ministry: 3 credits
This course is designed to give an introductory understanding of the foundational elements of successful youth ministry. It includes developing a philosophy of youth ministry, personal spiritual and character formation, and strategies for continued professional growth.
THE 353 – Theology III: 3 credits
A study of the doctrines of the Holy Spirit, the Church, and death and the end times. Special attention is given to Assemblies of God issues. (Technically: Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology: Personal and General).
Prerequisites: OLT 123 and NWT 113
THE 313 – A Biblical Theology of Worship: 3 credits
Introduction to the biblical basis of worship, a practical application of worship leading skills and the discussion and practice of hymn, choral, and chorus selections. The role of corporate worship in relation to preaching and the larger ministry of the church, with congregational response, will be explored.
THE 303 – Theology II: 3 credits
A study in systematic theology including Christ, salvation, the Holy Spirit, the church, and the end times (technically: Christology, Soteriolgoy, Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology). Special attention is given to Assemblies of God doctrine.
Prerequisites: OLT 123 and NWT 113
THE 243 – Theology I: 3 credits
A study in systematic theology including the defense of faith, the introduction of theology, the Bible, God, creation, angels, humanity, and sin (technically: apologetics, the prolegomena, bibliology, theology proper, cosmology, angelology, anthropology, and hamartiology). Special attention is given to Assemblies of God doctrine.
Prerequisites: OLT 123 and NWT 113
THE 233 – An Introduction to the History & Theology of the AG: 3 credits
An introduction to the historical and theological bases for the emergence of Pentecostalism, with a particular emphasis on the centrality of missions to Christian thought and practice.
THE 214 – Biblical Theology of Missions from a Pentecostal Perspective: 3 credits
An introduction to the biblical mandate for missions as recorded throughout the Old and New Testaments. This course also emphasizes principles of the indigenous church, roles of the sending church, the layperson and the missionary, in fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission. The personal call to missio8ns is also studied.
Prerequisites: OLT 123 and NWT 113
THE 115 – Thinking Theologically: 3 credits
An investigation of the crucial doctrines, themes, and concepts that shape Christian theology. The nature of God, human nature, the person and work of Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Church will be explored.
THE 100 – An Introduction to Christian Belief: 3 credits
An investigation of the crucial doctrines, themes, and concepts that shape Christian theology.
SWK 493 – Special Topics in Social Work: 3 credits
This course is designed for students to pursue special topics in Social Work, for which they have interest but have not had opportunity to research in other courses. It allows each student to conduct literature review culminating in a formal paper which then forms the basis of their class presentation. Each student benefits from the academic pursuit of classmates.
SWK 453-463 – Senior Field Practicum: (Fall and Spring, 3 credits each semester)
Supervised Social Work practice in selected social service agencies and host settings. 200 hours in the field each semester is required. Classroom knowledge is connected to practical experience, allowing for advanced integration of knowledge and practice. Professional identity and the foundational skills for social work practice are developed.
Co-requisites: SWK 433 and SWK 443 respectively
Prerequisites: SWK 123, 143, 243, 263, 373, 383 and 391
SWK 433-443 – Senior Seminar I & II in Social Work Practice: (Fall and Spring, 3 credits each semester)
These are the culminating, integrative practice courses of the social work major. Concurrent with field practicum, this seminar course allows for the integration of theory, methods, skills, and values of generalist practice with knowledge and experience gained in the student’s field placement. The seminar instructor serves as the field liaison for the student in field placement. This provides the student with support, supervision, and an integrative educational experience.
Corequisites: SWK 453 and SWK 463 respectively
Prerequisites: SWK 123, 143, 243, 263, 373, 383 and 391
SWK 423 – Human Behavior in the Social Environment II: 3 credits
Provides a conceptual and theoretical framework for understanding human behavior and the social environment from an ecological perspective. Students explore how biological, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual variables influence the development of groups, communities, and institutions. Using this knowledge base, students learn to approach their work with groups, communities, institutions from an informed perspective that considers diversity. The impact of diversity, discrimination, and oppression on community and institutional development is also explored.
Prerequisites: PSY 223 and SWK 123
SWK 411 – Social Work Research: 3 credits
Course includes instruction in the scientific method of applied and basic research and requires formulation of a research problem and hypothesis, research design, field research, and writing of a major research report. Students will learn the purpose and goals of social work research as well as the scientific approach to social work research. Student will be familiar with social work journal articles and outcomes of social work research studies. They will learn how to formulate hypotheses, design a research study, and will be required to write a scientific research paper.
Prerequisite: MTH 203
SWK 403 – Ethics and Practice: 3 credits
This course builds upon generalist practice knowledge and provides a concentrated study and understanding of social work values and ethics on the micro and macro levels, and their application to direct practice, social policy formulation/application and organizational policies and procedures. Emphasis will be placed on the NASW Code of Ethics. This course provides students with a strong understanding of the role of ethics in social work practice and the tools to make appropriate ethical decisions as a beginning generalist social worker.
Prerequisites: SWK 123, 373 and 383
SWK 391 – Social Work Practice III: 3 credits
This course introduces the student to social work practice through site visits to various community social service providers and supervised field placement experience. Junior Fieldwork compliments the student’s academic work through practical experience in social work practice. Under the supervision of an agency field instructor, the student learns beginning social work tasks and functions while applying theory to social work practice situations. Concurrent with fieldwork, students participate in an on-campus seminar with other junior social work majors.
Prerequisites: SWK 123, 243, 373 and 383
SWK 383 – Social Work Practice II: 3 credits
Building upon the skills acquired to work with individuals in Social Work Practice I, Practice II focuses upon the practice skills necessary to work effectively with families, groups, and organizations.
Prerequisite: SWK 123, 243 and 373
SWK 373 – Social Work Practice I: 3 credits
This course offers an introduction to generalist social work practice with individuals. An opportunity to acquire the foundational-level knowledge and skills required for micro social work practice is provided. Basic communication and helping skills are emphasized.
Prerequisite: SWK 123 and 243
SWK 343 – Human Behavior in the Social Environment I: 3 credits
Provides a conceptual and theoretical framework for understanding human behavior and the social environment from an ecological perspective. Students explore how biological, psychological, sociological, cultural, and spiritual variables influence the development of individuals and families, as well as groups, communities, and institutions. Using this knowledge base, students learn to approach their work with clients from an informed perspective that considers diversity. The impact of diversity, discrimination, and oppression on development is also explored.
Prerequisites: SWK 123, PSY 223 and PSY 283
SWK 333 – Community Mental Health: 3 credits
Focuses on practice models and theoretical perspectives in mental health care, with emphasis upon cultural competency, prevention, and interdisciplinary approaches to psychosocial treatment and rehabilitation services. This course will instruct students how to develop and implement functional assessments, resource assessments, and formation of plans to meet service needs. The conceptualization and structuring of mental health resources and services to the family, church, community and the role of social work in the provision of these services will be explored.
Prerequisite: SWK 123
SWK 323 – Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations: 3 credits
This course approaches the study of diverse populations in the U.S. from social, literary, historical, religious and political perspectives. Stories (both fiction and nonfiction), articles, essays and commentaries are utilized to enable students to learn about the importance of understanding diversity, the experiences of diverse populations in our society, and the means by which the barriers that prevent cross-cultural understanding may be challenged and ultimately removed. The leadership roles of Christian organizations are reviewed. This course serves as an Ethnic Studies option.
Prerequisite: SWK 123
SWK 313 – Public Social Service: 3 credits
The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook states that the majority of Social Workers are employed by the state in public social services. This course is designed to expose and educate students about the functions and services available through public social services. The course is also designed to prepare students to take the state social service exam. The course will also provide students with a link to field placements and possible employment with a state social service agency.
Prerequisite: SWK 123
SWK 303 – Spirituality & Social Work: 3 credits
Explores the role of spirituality in the field of social work. Examines public, private, and faith-based initiatives that meet the needs of individuals and families in various settings. Introduces models of practice that address spiritual issues and the dynamics of social work.
Prerequisite: SWK 123
SWK 263 – Social Welfare Policy & Services: 3 credits
Social policy and service delivery in social service agencies is explored, as is the creation of social welfare policy and legislation in the United States. The political, ideological, and economic values underlying policy creation are examined. Within this context major fields of social work practice are reviewed. Models of change at the policy level in communities and organizations are discussed. The integration of Christian and social work values in policy practice is explored.
Prerequisites: SWK 123 and 143
SWK 233 – Substance Abuse: 3 credits
This course offers an overview of substance abuse and dependency. Theories of addiction and treatment are explored. Assessment and intervention techniques are developed for work with individuals of various age, gender, race and cultural groups.
Prerequisite: SWK 123
SWK 143 – Social Welfare History: 3 credits
Examines social welfare development in the United States and internationally, specifically the social, political, and institutional responses to the poor and disenfranchised. This course includes a review of social work as a function of religion and philanthropy and its transformation into a profession.
Prerequisite: SWK 123
SWK 123 – Introduction to Social Work: 3 credits
Introduction to the basic concepts of social welfare as an institution and social work as a profession. The integration of professional social work practice, values, and ethics with a faith-based worldview is explored. The course provides an opportunity for students to test their interest in the social work profession by introducing them to the arenas in which social workers practice and the knowledge, values, and ethics that underlie the profession.
SPT 483 – Sport Management Internship: 6 credits
The internship requirement is considered to be one of the most critical components of the Sport Management major. Students will undertake a 450 hour supervised internship during the summer following the junior year. This opportunity is expected to enhance the student’s academic experiences via a required internship reflection paper, weekly reports, supervisor evaluations, student evaluation, as well as provide additional work experience and networking opportunities. Internship experiences may take place in a variety of sport industry settings. Students may obtain internships in any region of the country and in some cases may receive financial compensation. Prerequisites: Senior standing or Business/Sport Management faculty approval.
SPT 430 – Sport Coaching Methodology: 3 credits
This course examines the principles and methods of coaching for the levels of professional, collegiate, interscholastic, and recreational sports. Topics covered include, leadership development, coaching philosophy and ethics, safety and injury prevention during practice and games, developing physical conditioning of athletes, youth players’ growth and development, teaching and communication techniques, methods to improve sports skills and tactics, organization and administration of sport teams, and ways to evaluate the performance of athletes and coaching effectiveness.
SPT 420 – Intercollegiate Athletics: 3 credits
This course is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the various aspects of intercollegiate athletics management. Topic discussions will include the history of college athletics; organizational structure and governance; the NCAA, member institution divisions and conferences; athletic department administration; and responsibilities and management of athletic directors, coaches, and student-athletes.
SPT 410 – Sport Management Finance: 3 credits
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the major financial issues facing sport managers and the sports industry. An analysis of the following areas will be undertaken: sources of revenue for sports organizations and leagues, a comparison of public and private sector funding in sports, and investment of public resources into private sporting facilities. Budgeting, investment comparisons, and fundraising will also be discussed.
Prerequisites: BUS 213 and MTH 123
SPT 340 – Sport Law and Risk Management: 3 credits
This course studies the application of legal principles as considered in relation to professional and amateur sports. Emphasis is placed on tort liabilities and risk management. Specific topics include negligence, duty of care, intentional torts, crowd management, contracts and constitutional law. Case law relating to these principles is examined.
Prerequisites: BUS 253, BUS 313 and SPT 230
SPT 323 – Sport Communications: 3 credits
This course provides a framework for the various methods individuals, media outlets, and sport organizations use to communicate to constituents. Special attention is given to innovative technology and public relations as effective means of communication. The course will examine communication theory, sport literature, and professional practices of industry leaders
Prerequisites: COM 123 and ENG 123
SPT 320 – Sport Psychology: 3 credits
This course studies the physical, affective, and cognitive behaviors associated with sport participation along with the psychological theories and research related to sport and exercise behavior. The course provides a broad overview of the major topics in the field including the history of sport and exercise psychology, leadership, self-confidence, personality, psychology of the fan, youth sports, aggression, moral development, team dynamics, anxiety and arousal, goal-setting, imagery, and motivation. These topics are examined to increase the student’s understanding of the psychological makeup of athletes, and how psychological factors influence involvement and performance in sport.
Prerequisites: SPT 100, SPT 123 and PSY 223
SPT 310 – Marketing & Promotions in the Sport Industry: 3 credits
This course provides an overview of the principles and practices of promotions and marketing in the sport industry. Topics include sport marketing planning, market segmentation and identification of target markets, and sport marketing mix. The course will examine the issues of sponsorship, endorsements, and community and public relations. The course is an examination of sports as a social institution and of the interactive impact of sports and society.
Prerequisites: SPT 100 and BUS 200
SPT 230 – Sport Ethics: 3 credits
This course offers an introduction to ethics within the sporting context. The values promoted within sports will be examined along with common ethical dilemmas faced by those involved in this complex field. The course will cover issues such as fair play, sportsmanship, Title IX, and performance enhancement. The value of sports and their moral significance will be examined within the context of ethical decision-making. This course is intended to develop and foster critical thinking skills, as well as the learning and understanding of the philosophical and ethical background of sport. The utilization of case studies will assist students to improve written and verbal communication skills as well as presentation and deliberation.
Prerequisites: SPT 123 and PHL 113
SPT 223 – Sport Management Practicum: 3 credits
The practicum integrates coursework with 100 hours of supervised.
SPT 200 – Sport Facility & Event Management: 3 credits
This course examines the principles of facility operations and event management in the sport and entertainment management industry, focusing on the applications of facility operations and event management principles and concepts, for organizations in professional, collegiate, and Olympic sports. This class provides students with an in-depth investigation of the unique challenges and opportunities that are routinely faced by a business manager in the context of events at sport and entertainment venues.
Prerequisites: SPT 100
SPT 123 – Sport & Society: 3 credits
This course provides students with a basis for understanding the sport industry and the broader economic, political, religious, cultural, ethnic, and social systems that apply to the world of sports. Students will gain an understanding of cultural, gender and socioeconomic diversity issues as they relate to teams, sports institutions, and the role of sports in modern society.
SPT 100 – Introduction to Sport Management: 3 credits
This introductory level course provides students with the foundations of sport management and the structure of the sport industry. In addition, this course will highlight the scope and variety of potential career opportunities in the sport industry. Attention will be given to the issues facing sports organizations and the use of management techniques to solve business-related problems.
SPE 433X/615 – Language & Literacy Development for Students with Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the literacy and language instruction of students with disabilities. Students will learn about the development and prevalence of reading disabilities. Students will also learn about implementing best practice strategies to ensure high quality literacy instruction as well as how to implement a Response to Intervention model in order to provide evidenced based interventions for struggling students. There will be a strong emphasis on understanding, assessing and managing literacy instruction using data informed decision-making. The course will also review the procedure for developing IEP goals in the area of literacy. This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
Prerequisites: CMS 233, EDU 373 and SPE 223
SPE 423X/617 – Strategies & Early Intervention for Students with Low Incidence Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the teaching of students with low incidence disabilities. Students will learn to implement general teaching strategies that are effective in working with students with disabilities as well as specific strategies for teaching daily living skills, encouraging motor development and encouraging social development. The course will also examine the successful implementation of early and middle level education intervention services and effective transition techniques for students with low incidence disabilities. There will be an emphasis on the characteristics, development and teaching of students with specific low-incidence disabilities. This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
Prerequisites: CMS 233 and SPE 223
SPE 403 – Inclusion & Collaboration: 3 credits
This course explores the theoretical basis and practice of inclusion of students who are eligible to receive special education services under IDEA guidelines into the general education classroom. Students will examine best practices for inclusion and collaboration within the educational setting, and will apply this knowledge during a classroom field experience. Students will identify interventions, accommodations, and modifications needed for students eligible for special education services to be successful within the general education classroom.
Corequisite: EDU 383
Prerequisites: EDU 133 and SPE 223
SPE 323X/616 – Strategies & Early Intervention for Students with High Incidence Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the teaching of students with high incidence disabilities. Students will learn to implement general teaching strategies that are effective in working with students with disabilities as well as specific strategies for teaching literacy, math, science, and social studies. The course will also examine the successful implementation of early and middle level education intervention services, the creation of standards based IEP goals, and effective transition techniques for students with disabilities. There will be an emphasis on the characteristics and development of students with specific high-incidence disabilities. This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
Corequisite: EDU 383
Prerequisites: CMS 233 and SPE 223
SPE 303X/614 – Behavioral Interventions for Students with Disabilities: 3 credits
This online course will provide information and training in the implementation of classroom management theories as it pertains to working with students with disabilities. Students will learn about implementing the Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) model as well as practical strategies for working with students in the classroom with behavior challenges. The course will examine the current mandates and legislation related to behavior management of students with disabilities in school. There will be a strong emphasis on understanding, assessing and managing behavior using data informed decision- making. The course will also introduce students to the use and development of functional behavior assessments to develop behavior intervention plans. This course includes a 10-hour field experience working with students with special needs.
Prerequisites: EDU 133 and SPE 223
SPE 223 – Introduction to Exceptionalities: 3 credits
This course provides an overview of the basic characteristics and unique educational needs of individuals who have been determined to be exceptional in the areas of, but not limited to: learning disabilities, mental impairment, emotional and/or behavioral disorders, mental health disorders and multiple and severe disabilities. Students will explore the validity of previously held beliefs, formulate new concepts, and acquire the tools necessary to challenge personal or professional misconceptions. Readings and activities that promote self- awareness and reflection will foster application of new information relating to the understanding of individuals with exceptionalities and/or disabilities.
SOC 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Social Science: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
SOC 419 – Sociological Aspects of Deaf Education: 3 credits
This course analyzes the historical background and current trends of Deaf education and its impact on the sociological development, worldview and culture of a Deaf/hard of hearing individual.
For Deaf Students and DCS majors who have successfully completed LNG 313 ASL IV or equivalent.
SOC 418 – Ethnic Study: Hispanics & People of Latin Descent: 3 credits
This course attempts to give students an understanding of distinguishing differences of Hispanic culture both in Latin America and in North America, including the immigration which affects both. Contextual issues designed to understand this culturally distinct segment of society will be discussed from a number of integrative and sociological perspectives in order to better serve and reach them with the Gospel.
SOC 417 – Indian & Pakistani Culture: 3 credits
Understanding the foundations of Indian and Pakistani culture within the context of the vast immigration to the North American cities is the key focus of the course. Contextual issues designed to understand this culturally distinct segment of American society are discussed from a number of integrative perspectives.
SOC 416 – The Hispanic Challenge in North America: 3 credits
The course will study the growth and prevailing immigrations trends of the fastest growing sector of North American culture. Particular attention is given to Hispanic migration, multi-ethnicity, and the unique challenges of first- and second-generation immigrants.
SOC 415 – Asians in the North American City: 3 credits
An overview of historical, cultural, communal, and religious aspects of Asian populations in North American cities. A contextual focus designed to understand this culturally distinct segment of American society is discussed from a number of integrative perspectives.
SOC 414 – Ethnic Study: French Culture: 3 credits
A survey of the French-speaking world with its cultural, historical, socio- economic, political and religious beliefs. The course will foster in students an ability to identify distinctive patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to the formation of French cultures. This class will also foster a critical and informed familiarity with the various cultures in the francophone world – in Europe, Africa, the Americas, and the South Pacific.
SOC 403 – African-American Experience: 3 credits
A historical and sociological study of African-American culture and its contribution to American society. Urban conditions of the African-American community caused by economic impoverishment, political disenfranchisement, and social marginalization are studied in depth.
SOC 363 – Holistic Relief & Development: 3 credits
Examination of a holistic approach to missions and ministry. Examination of the synthesis between evangelism, discipleship, compassion ministries, and church planting.
SOC 353 – New Frontiers of Aging: 3 credits
This course is an exploration of the future of aging in America and the trends which may result from advances in technology, medicine, transportation, living and working environments, and leisure opportunities. The implications of these changes and societal response is the focus of this study.
SOC 333 – The City in Context: 3 credits
A sociological look at the unique culture and dynamics of urban cities. Explores issues relevant to migration, ethnicity, pluralism, immigration, and marginalization in the urban context. The course is designed to help students engage in cross-cultural learning experiences that will enable them to demonstrate a genuine understanding of what it means to work and live in the city. Course taught at the Urban Center.
SOC 323 – Biblical/Social Justice: 3 credits
Biblical justice is examined through a series of Scripture passages as a foundation to the Christian’s perspective on social justice. Students explore biblical teaching on evil, sin, conflict and injustice for current social problems and theological formulation. Topics such as poverty, world hunger, homelessness, revolution, political unrest, human trafficking and child labor will be contemplated in relation to restorative justice, global reconciliation, reform and development.
SOC 313 – Marriage and the Family: 3 credits
A study of interpersonal relationships in the family emphasizing marital adjustment and communication.
SOC 243 – Contemporary Social Issues: 3 credits
A sociological analysis of major social concerns such as poverty, violence, crime, addiction, deviance, social disorganization, urbanization, and effects of mass media. The role of the Christian worker in dealing with these issues is emphasized.
SOC 223 – Youth Culture: 3 credits
A study of social, cultural, and generational distinctiveness among teenage groups and sub-cultures. This includes understanding, connecting with, and confronting youth culture. How to approach the critical issues faced by the emerging generations in the counseling role of the youth pastor will be researched and presented by students.
SOC 213 – Women’s Leadership Issues: 3 credits
The student will examine the ethical, social and professional conduct of the Christian woman in leadership. Biblical standards for professional conduct will be considered.
SOC 203 – Introduction to Social Sciences: 3 credits
A study of general principles of sociology, anthropology, and political science. Reviews the basic institutions of society with particular emphasis on family, kinship, and group relationships; religious structures; ethnography, multiculturalism and diversities of human cultures; and principles of government and economics.
SOC 103 – Life Formation: 3 credits
A practical study of the classic spiritual disciplines that are essential to lifelong spiritual formation from a Pentecostal perspective. The course will emphasize intentional and holistic applications in daily living.
SEC 471 – Student Teaching Seminar: 1 credit
This seminar course will consist of small group interactions to review experiences during student teaching placements. The course will also support students in applying for PDE teaching certification, constructing a cover letter and resume, completing a professional portfolio, navigating websites for job search, writing and implementing a Teacher Work Sample, and reviewing standards of ethical behavior according to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
SEC 466 – Student Teaching: 12 credits
Student teaching is a 15-week capstone semester in which the pre-service teacher integrates the pedagogical content knowledge acquired in the teacher education program in either a middle/junior high or a senior high school. This is a hands-on experience in which the student teacher candidate progresses from assisting the classroom teacher to gradually assuming control of the classroom for the entire day. The student teacher candidate participates fully in the life of the classroom by planning and implementing instruction, managing the classroom environment, assessing student progress, and working with school personnel. Student Teaching must be taken concurrently with SEC 471 Student Teaching Seminar. All academic work must be completed. This course will explore current practices in the teaching of language arts in secondary schools. Prospective teachers enrolled in this course will learn to plan appropriate learning activities, to assess their students’ progress, and to reflect on their own teaching and learning experiences.
Prerequisite: CMS 233
SEC 373 – Secondary English Curriculum and Methodologies: 3 credits
This course will explore current practices in the teaching of language arts in secondary schools. Prospective teachers enrolled in this course will learn to plan appropriate learning activities, to assess their students’ progress, and to reflect on their own teaching and learning experiences.
Prerequisite: CMS 233
SEC 223 – Field Experience (Stage 2): 0 credits
The aim of the field experience program at the University of Valley Forge is to provide education students with a progression of opportunities to apply theory to practice in an authentic educational setting. The purpose of the Stage 2 (sophomore) field experience is to foster observation and reflection; however, students will participate in class activities and, under the supervision of the cooperating teacher, may assist in the everyday events of the classroom. A university supervisor will periodically visit the student at the field experience site to ensure that a productive experience is taking place. Students will maintain a log that documents the hours spent at the field experience.
Prerequisite: EDU 133
SCI 495 – Chemistry for Healthcare: 4 credits
Chemistry for nursing and health-related professions. Topics in this course include measurements, matter and energy, measurement, unit conversions, periodic trends, isotopes, ions, bonding, reactions, energy, solutions, and acids/ bases. Organic chemistry relevant to the health sciences is also covered including functional groups, carbon-based compounds, hydrocarbons, isomers and protein and lipid structure. The laboratory experiments highlight topics covered in the lecture. The course consists of three hours lecture and two and one-half hours laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MTH 123 (or equivalent college-level math course).
Lab fee: $140
SCI 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Natural Science: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
SCI 341 – Ecology and Environmental Laboratory: 1 credit
This course deals with experiences that relate to classroom discussion in SCI 143. Required of Early Childhood and Middle Level Education majors who take SCI 143.
Lab fee: $140
SCI 321 – General Biology Laboratory: 1 credit
This course deals with experiences that relate to classroom discussion in SCI 123. Required of Early Childhood Education Majors who take SCI 123.
Lab fee: $140
SCI 311 – Physical Science Laboratory: 1 credit
This course deals with experiences that relate to classroom discussion in SCI 113. Required of Early Childhood and Middle Level Education Majors who take SCI 113.
Lab fee: $140
SCI 283 – Basic Nutrition: 3 credits
This course focuses on the role of nutrition in health promotion and disease prevention in humans throughout their life cycle. Topics include diet, weight control, and nutrition for fitness and sports. Course limited to Associate of Arts in General Studies in preparation for 2+2 programs in Nursing, Health Science, and Exercise Science.
Prerequisite: SCI 495
SCI 263 – Introduction to Microbiology: 4 credits
An introduction to microorganisms including their classification, basic biology, and impact on human health. The laboratory experiments highlight topics covered in the lecture. The course includes three hours lecture and two and one-half hours laboratory.
Prerequisite: SCI 495
Lab fee: $140
SCI 233 – Human Anatomy and Physiology II: 4 credits
This course focuses on various systems of the human body including the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems with attention to human development. Laboratory experiments highlight topics covered in the lecture. The course includes three hours lecture and two and one- half hours laboratory. This course is a continuation of SCI 133.
Prerequisite: SCI 495 Chemistry for Healthcare
Minimum grade of C in SCI 133 Human Anatomy and Physiology I.
Lab fee: $140
SCI 153 – Earth and Space Science: 3 credits
This course introduces students to the disciplines represented by the earth sciences. An earth system science approach is used, emphasizing the interac- tion between the various components of the earth system. Basic principles of geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy are explored with a focus on the importance of stewardship of the earth.
For Deaf students only.
SCI 143 – Ecology and Environmental Science: 3 credits
A study of the relationships and interactions between living organisms and their environment. Attention is given to ecosystems, use of natural resources, pollution, and endangered species. Early Childhood and Middle Level Education majors must take corresponding laboratory.
SCI 133 – Human Anatomy and Physiology I: 4 credits
This course focuses on various systems of the human body including the integumentary, musculoskeletal, nervous, and sensory systems. The laboratory highlights topics covered in the lecture including anatomical terminology, cell and tissue structure, and nervous and muscular system form and function. The course consists of three hours lecture and two and one-half hours laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: SCI 495 Chemistry for Healthcare.
SCI 133 is the prerequisite for SCI 233 Human Anatomy and Physiology II.
A grade of at least a C in SCI 133 is necessary to continue on to SCI 233.
Lab fee: $140
SCI 123 – General Biology: 3 credits
An introduction to biology. Topics covered included basic chemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, and biotechnology. An overview of the major groups of organisms is included with an emphasis on the species that affect human health.
SCI 113 – Introduction to Physical Science: 3 credits
An understanding of the world in the light of scientific discovery. A survey is made of physics, chemistry, astronomy, geology, and environmental studies. Early Childhood and Middle Level Education majors must take corresponding laboratory.
REL/PHL 363 – Philosophy of Religions: 3 credits
A critical exploration of philosophy in relation to and within historic and contemporary religious systems. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction of secular philosophies and various religious systems and the use of philosophy by systems in relation to the role of intellect, apologetics, other religions, God, salvation, history, eternity, etc.
REL/PHL 353 – Traditions of Spirituality: 3 credits
An introduction to the methodology of comparative religions and a critical exploration of various religious traditions including, but not limited to: Animism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Mormonism, Islam, mysticism, and occultism. An understanding of the Judeo-Christian tradition is assumed.
REL 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Religion: 3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
REL 223 – Introduction to World Religions: 3 credits
The world’s great religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism are studied with a comparison to Christianity. Each religion is then considered in light of its anthropological and cultural influences.
PSY 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Psychology and Counseling: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
PSY 490 – Human Sexuality: 3 credits
A study of the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of human sexuality. Focus on biblical principles, formation of gender roles, sexual identity, sexual deviancy, human sexuality through the life cycle, and contemporary sexual issues.
PSY 485 – Therapeutic Horsemanship: 3 credits
Focuses on learning the basic counseling facilitation skills necessary in order to assist a client in processing the experience. The class will be divided into three parts: classroom instruction will provide the basis for understanding the theoretical model of equine interactive counseling; experiential learning will provide the basis for understanding the facilitation process (students will assume the role of ‘client’ while riding and will have instructors facilitate as they process their experience); and field observation, where students will observe and report on trained facilitators at a therapeutic riding center.
Lab Fee: $180
PSY 483 – Grief, Death and Dying: 3 credits
A detailed examination of the nature and stages of death, customs, and rituals surrounding the death experience are presented, emphasizing the role of care giving professionals in the processes of death and bereavement.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 481 – Internship: 1 – 3 credits
This phase of the student’s education is to provide a supervised experience in direct ministry/marketplace. All required clearances must be submitted and approved prior to the start of the Internship. Liability Insurance must also be obtained prior to the start of the Internships. All internships must be approved by the professor. Students are required to complete 75 hours within their Internship. Internship must be taken for 1 credit and can range from 4 to 15 weeks in duration. The Internship will be offered during every semester: Fall, Spring, and Summer. A comprehensive journal is required that addresses the student’s activities during the internship and issues of development in their area of ministry. Written evaluations are required by the intern and the on-site supervisor. Internships are tailored in conjunction with the student’s focus of development and future ministry plans.
Prerequisites:
Psychology: PSY 343, 363, 463, 471 and 473
Pastoral Counseling: PSY 363, 463, 471 and 473
Criminal Justice: Successful completion of all 100, 200, 300 level criminal justice courses and JUS 413
PSY 473 – Crisis Intervention Skills: 3 credits
An introduction to the basic theories and techniques of crisis counseling as it relates to pastoral ministry. Specific attention is given to crisis intervention in areas such as teen pregnancy; suicide; substance, emotional and physical abuse; bereavement and grief; eating disorders; divorce; and family relations. Includes legal and ethical considerations and referrals.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 471 – Internship Seminar: 1 credit
This course allows for the integration of theory, methods, skills, and values of generalist practice with knowledge and experience gained in the student’s internship. Emphasis will be placed upon self- understanding, conflict resolution, and the practical concerns faced by interns. This provides the student with support, supervision, and an integrative educational experience.
Prerequisites:
Psychology Majors: PSY 343, 363, 463 and PSY 473
Pastoral Counseling Majors: PSY 363, 463 and 473
Criminal Justice Majors: JUS 413
PSY 463 – Theories & Techniques of Counseling: 3 credits
A review of major counseling orientations with specialized techniques suitable for use in various counseling settings. Diagnostic instruments for effective assessment will be introduced as part of the curriculum.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 423 – Leadership Development: 3 credits
This course will provide the student with an in-depth look at the nature of leadership. Leadership models will be reviewed as well as self-evaluations and practical exercises to develop the student’s ability to lead. The student will learn the importance of increasing employee performance through creating a vision, developing and empowering employees and decision making. Ethics and responsibility will also be explored. Current case studies will be used to enhance the student’s understanding of today’s work place.
Prerequisites: PSY 223, 300 and 373
PSY 414 – Marriage and Family Therapy: 3 credits
Students will receive specialized training in marriage and family counseling from a systems perspective. Hypothetical cases will be conceptualized, assessed and diagnosed from this orientation. Interventions unique to this approach will be examined.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 413 – Human Relations in the Work Place: 3 credits
This course focuses on developing interpersonal skills for the workplace. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding diversity, dealing with difficult people and improving employee communication skills. Personal inventories will be used to provide students with insight into their personality predisposition as it relates to effective communication in the workplace. Time and stress management in an organization will also be examined. Prerequisites:
PSY 223, 300 and 373
PSY 403 – Experimental Psychology: 3 credits
Advanced study in human behavior. This course requires formulation of a research problem and hypothesis, research design, field research, and writing of a major research report.
Prerequisites: PSY 223 and PSY 263
PSY 383 – Educational Psychology: 3 credits
A study of learning processes with practical applications for classroom teaching. Topics include human development, the impact of culture and community on learning, learning theory, motivation, testing, and assessment. This course includes a practicum involving observations and interviews with persons working in educational settings.
PSY 375 – Riding Skills and Techniques: 3 credits
An introductory riding class geared toward students with little experience. Students with experience will be allowed to advance according to their levels of mastery. Basic riding skills are covered. Students will learn to control the horse at the walk, the rising trot, and the two-point position. Ground skills must be mastered before being allowed to ride. The focus will be on basic schooling figures and transitions. The two-point positions is taught and cavalletti and single cross rails may be introduced.
Lab fee: $180
PSY 373 – Industrial Psychology: 3 credits
This course will provide the student with an overview of the field of Industrial Psychology. The student will be introduced to research and assessment of the work environment, assessing individuals, job analysis and performance measurement, staffing decisions and training development. An emphasis will be placed on emerging trends in the workplace, historical theories and models.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 363 – Abnormal Psychology: 3 credits
Behavioral deviations from the norm are assessed and classified according to DSM-5 criteria. Special attention is given to the developmental and genetic factors that contribute to abnormal behavior. Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment strategies are examined in light of current research.
Prerequisites: PSY 223 and 283
PSY 353 – Community Psychology: 3 credits
An introduction to the basic concepts in community mental health, from theories, to research, to actual settings in which students may work or volunteer. Strategies for changing the lives of others in the community for the better will be a focus of this course.
Prerequisites: PSY 223
PSY 343 – Legal and Ethical Issues in Counseling: 3 credits
Sensitive issues in counseling, from both the pastoral and professional perspective, will be examined for the purpose of preventing legal and ethical misconduct. Special attention will be given to the development of ethical thinking when involved with cross-cultural clients, issues of competency, and dual relationships.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 333 – Pastoral Counseling: 3 credits
An introduction to the pastoral perspective in counseling. A study of the biblical basis for counseling will be conducted. Emphasis will be given to a survey of techniques for premarital, marriage, family, career guidance, grief, and pre-referral counseling.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 325 – Introduction to Equine Studies: 3 credits
Provides an overview of basic equine knowledge and care. Basic health care issues will be addressed as well as anatomy and physiology. Emphasis will be placed on understanding and interpreting horse behavior. Class format will include classroom lecture and discussion as well as a field experience component.
PSY 323 – History and Systems in Psychology: 3 credits
A study of the evolving thought in psychology from its inception as an experimental science to development of significant systems and experiments. Provides an overview of historical and contemporary systems and theories.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 321 – Perspectives on Parenting: 3 credits
A biblical foundation for a Christian approach to parenting will be studied. Historical thought concerning childhood and parenting philosophies as well as contemporary literature, policy, and parenting practices will be examined. Attention will be given to application of information and theory when working with multiple family types in church and community settings.
PSY 313 – Theories of Personality: 3 credits
A study of theories relating to the development and structure of personality. Biographies are included enabling students to contextualize the social and family dynamics of major theorists.
Prerequisites: PSY 223 and PSY 283
PSY 303 – Biological Psychology: 3 credits
A study of interrelationship between the psychological and physiological bases of human behavior including analysis of emotions, motivation, and perception.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 300 – Organizational Psychology: 3 credits
This course will provide the student with an overview of the field of Organizational Psychology. An emphasis will be placed on motivation, job satisfaction, leadership, decision making, teams in the workplace, organizational change and human factors. Students will also examine emerging trends and historical theory. Case Studies will be extensively used.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 283 – Lifespan Human Development: 3 credits
A survey of human development from conception to death. Focus is on the biological, intellectual, and psycho-social development of the individual person.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 263 – Psychometrics: 3 credits
A variety of test instruments is surveyed as potential assessment tools in variety of settings; vocational, intellectual, personality, and learning styles. A significant part of the course involves training in test construction and using measures of reliability and validity as a basis for test selection.
Prerequisite: PSY 223
PSY 223 – Introduction to Psychology: 3 credits
An introduction to the basic concepts of human behavior, motivation, emotion and personality, and a survey of the contemporary psychological field.
PST 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Pastoral Ministry: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
PST 483 – Senior Capstone Experience: 1 credit
The culminating preparation for ministerial vocation for seniors in practical ministry majors. In community, students reflect on their experiences, refine skills, prepare portfolios, and work on job placement. (Theological and Biblical Studies Majors take THE 483, Theological Studies Capstone, instead.)
PST 482 – Church Planting Internship: 2 credits
This course will provide the student with extended field experience. The student will gain experience, develop a comfort level with the rigors of church planting, and be mentored by a church planter. Field evaluation and written work will be required for this course.
PST 481 – Internship: 1 credit
This phase of the student’s education is to provide a supervised experience in direct ministry. All internships must be approved and processed through the Internship office. Internships can range from 6 to 15 weeks. Students are required to complete practical field work in addition to written work, and field supervisors will assess student performance during the internship. Internships must be major-specific.
Prerequisite: PST 471
PST 472 – Field Internship: 2 credits
This phase of the student’s education is to provide a supervised experience in direct ministry. All internships must be approved and processed through the Internship office. Internships can range from 6 to 15 weeks. Students are required to complete practical field work in addition to written work, and field supervisors will assess student performance during the internship. Internships must be major-specific.
PST 471 – Internship Seminar: 1 credit
This course is to prepare the student for his/her internship. Emphasis will be placed upon self understanding, conflict resolution, and the practical concerns faced by interns. Time will also be given to formalize the specifics for each internship.
This course is a prerequisite for PST 481.
PST 443 – Disciple Making and Equipping Ministry: 3 credits
A biblical foundation for understanding Christian discipleship through both academic study and a community lab experience. Attention is given to both personal development and the discipleship of others.
PST 433 – Church Finance and Resource Management: 3 credits
Students will learn about the business aspects of leading a church and the role of church leadership in managing church resources including financial resources, human resources, and physical resources. Topics include the role of management in the church, nonprofit organization incorporation, bylaws, volunteer and staff management, risk management, facilities management, fundraising strategies, tithing, basic accounting terminology and skills, personal and church budgeting process, minister tax law, fiscal accountability, and record keeping.
PST 423 – Pastoral Ministry and Practice: 3 credits
An overview of the character, qualifications and call of the pastor. Instruction is given in conducting common church ceremonies: water baptism, communion, infant dedication, installation of officers, weddings, and funerals. Includes principles for conducting church business meetings, parliamentary procedure, visitation and pastoral care.
PST 403 – Introducing Spiritual Gifts in the Church: 3 credits
Analysis of the New Testament focus on spiritual gifts as found in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12-14, Ephesians 4, and 1 Peter 4. One third of the course examines biblical interpretation in light of Pentecostal theology. The remainder of the course deals with application of these principles in the development and operation of spiritual gifts in the church.
PST 392 – Church Growth: 3 credits
A survey of biblical and sociological principles affecting church growth and decline. The dynamics of both qualitative and quantitative growth will be examined, including methods of assessment and planning for change.
PST 383 – Senior Adult Ministry: 3 credits
A specialized study of senior adult ministry in the light of societal changes resulting from longer life expectancy, early and extended retirement, and productivity in post-retirement years. This course examines the church’s response to this emerging social reality and offers a forum for projecting models for future ministry.
PST 363 – Pastoring Children and Families: 3 credits
This course equips the student to minister to children and families in the church and community. Budgeting, visitation, organization of children and family ministry, and practical ministry are discussed. Attention is given to children and family worship, relating theological concepts and biblical truths to children, identifying social influences which affect children, and understanding the unique spiritual needs of children and parents. Interaction with, equipping, and supporting, parents, grandparents, and volunteers is covered in this course.
PST 353 – Age-Specific Student Ministries: 3 credits
Youth Ministry can vary greatly from middle school to high school to college. This course takes an in-depth look at how we can address the needs of these age groups, what challenges are faced in reaching and discipling these age groups, and strategies for developing viable ministries to address the unique needs and challenges of these three age-focused groups. Students will be exposed to several outside ministries to observe how the church is currently focusing on each specific age group.
PST 313 – Principles of Leadership: 3 credits
A study of the basic principles of leadership philosophy, goals and strategies. Includes an overview of leadership styles, time management, conflict resolution, communication, legal issues, development of mission statements, and professional etiquette and ethics.
PST 310 – The Staff Pastor: 3 credits
The Staff Pastor is a course developed to prepare the student to serve successfully on a church leadership team. The student will explore the ministry of the associate pastor. Staff challenges and ministry engagement in small and large church settings will be studied. Some topics covered in the course include ministerial health, conflict management, collaboration, coaching, bi-vocational ministry, and a biblical approach to relationships in ministry.
PST 303 – Emotionally Healthy Caregivers: 3 credits
This course is a study of the basic principles essential to maintaining health in church-related ministries and caregiving contexts. An emphasis is given to developing a Christ-centered lifestyle. Students will explore personal issues that hinder psychological well-being and impede transformational change. Through participation in small group exercises and service learning projects students are encouraged to develop relationships that facilitate support and accountability.
PST 261 – Church Planting Field Assessment: 1 credit
A field assessment course in which the student will interface with effective church plant(s)/planter(s) in a mature stage of development. The student will investigate the process of church planting from inception to the current state of the church and complete a critical analysis of the process.
PRE 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Preaching: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
PRE 483 – Preaching from the Gospels: 3 credits
This is an advanced preaching class that will focus upon preaching from three specific genres of the Gospels. The genres to be covered included Gospel narratives, parables and prophetic passages. Emphasis is given to systematic exposition of Scripture within its context. Focus is placed on techniques for preaching Gospel passages. A laboratory approach will be taken which stresses actual classroom practice and sermon evaluation.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 473 – Preaching in Children’s Ministry: 3 credits
How to plan and construct sermons for children. Methods of visualizing the Gospel will be presented. Special emphasis is given to altar calls, altar ministry, and age-level appropriate preaching for response.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 463 – Preaching on Doctrinal Issues: 3 credits
This course will examine the importance of sound doctrine in preaching. It introduces both theory and practice of preaching doctrine from various biblical genres. The student will construct and deliver sermons based on the Statement of Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God.
Prerequisites: THE 233 and PRE 213
PRE 443 – Preaching from Jesus’ Parables: 3 credits
Examines the formation and intent of Jesus’ parables and their effect on the hearers. The student will construct and deliver sermons from Gospel parables.
Prerequisites: NWT 223 and PRE 213
PRE 433 – Preaching Cross-Culturally: 3 credits
Emphasizes preparation to preach in a cross-cultural setting. Narrative and dialogue style preaching, contextualization, adapting messages to local culture and speaking through an interpreter will be explored.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 423 – Preaching in Youth Ministry: 3 credits
Examines style, form, content, and variety of sermons designed to bring the dynamic truth of the Word of God to the emerging generations. Techniques of communication to a post-Christian, postmodern, media-oriented, multitask centered culture are of primary concern. The student will prepare, deliver, and evaluate sermons for use in a variety of settings to impact youth.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 413 – Evangelistic Preaching: 3 credits
Examines style, form and content of sermons designed to lead the hearers to become Christians. The student will construct and deliver at least five evangelistic sermons.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 353 – Preaching in Pastoral Ministry: 3 credits
This course builds upon Foundations of Biblical Preaching (PRE 213) and equips the student to preach from a variety of biblical genres with contemporary relevance.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 343 – Advanced Biblical Preaching: 3 credits
An advanced course in sermon preparation and delivery. Emphasis is given to systematic exposition of Scripture within its context. Focus is placed on techniques for preaching from epistolary, narrative, poetic, and prophetic passages. A laboratory approach stresses actual classroom practice and sermon evaluation.
Prerequisite: PRE 213
PRE 213 – Foundations of Biblical Preaching and Teaching: 3 credits
An introduction to the processes involved in developing biblical, Christ- centered sermons and classes aimed at fostering discipleship in the local church. Students will learn how to study a passage, draw out the main idea, and develop that into contextually relevant sermons and teachings for use in various settings.
Prerequisites: COM 123, BIB 103 when applicable, BIB 213, OLT 123 and NWT 113
POL 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Political Science: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
POL 203 – The American Republic: An Introduction to American Government and Politics: 3 credits
This course explores the roots of the American form of government, its structures, its institutions, and the political process.
PHL/REL 363 – Philosophy of Religions: 3 credits
A critical exploration of philosophy in relation to and within historic and contemporary religious systems. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction of secular philosophies and various religious systems and the use of philosophy by systems in relation to the role of intellect, apologetics, other religions, God, salvation, history, eternity, etc.
PHL/REL 353 – Traditions of Spirituality: 3 credits
An introduction to the methodology of comparative religions and a critical exploration of various religious traditions including, but not limited to: Animism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Mormonism, Islam, mysticism, and occultism. An understanding of the Judeo-Christian tradition is assumed.
PHL 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Philosophy: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
PHL 343 – Ethics: 3 credits
An examination of historic and modern methods for ethical decision-making. Primary emphasis is given to using those methods to suggest Christian solutions for the personal, economic and religious problems of our day.
PHL 323 – Apologetics: 3 credits
An examination of the intellectual responses of Christianity to the challenges that have been posed by some in history, philosophy, science, and related areas. An overview of meta-issues (the nature of Christianity, nature of knowledge or epistemology, etc.), discussions of specific issues (the existence of God, the reliability of Scripture, the problem of evil, etc.), and consideration of practical issues (how best to present arguments, etc.) are included. A brief synopsis of philosophy is presented for perspective as a course introduction.
PHL 306 – Urban Issues and Ethics: 3 credits
The city is used as a context for examining criminal justice, economic development, housing, public health, welfare reform, and other urban conditions. Examines ethical interpretations and response to issues such as economic impoverishment, political disenfranchisement, and social marginalization. Special attention is given to personal and group obligations to the urban community and the role of churches in Christian social justice.
PHL 303 – Worldview Perspectives of City Life: 3 credits
Examines the development of worldview perspectives of groups and individuals within the urban context. Particular attention is given to philosophical and ethical dimensions of deism, existentialism, naturalism, nihilism, pantheism, pluralism, and postmodern thought.
PHL 213 – Introduction to Philosophy: 3 credits
A survey of the fundamentals of philosophy, including: the history of philosophy, reasoning (logic), knowledge (epistemology), reality (metaphysics), ethics (axiology), and a unit on philosophy of religion and apologetics (the defense of the faith).
PHL 113 – Worldviews: 3 credits
This course will examine and apply principles involved in the development of a worldview. The course will emphasize the development and application of a Christian worldview. Special emphasis will be given to critical, creative, and Christian thinking skills.
PHE 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Physical Education: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
PHE 293 – Personal Health & Wellness: 3 credits
This course introduces students to concepts related to personal health, fitness, and wellness. Topics include nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, and disease prevention. Students monitor their diet, sleep, and physical activity during the course and take steps to improve their health in these areas including meeting weekly physical activity goals. Online Degree Programs only. An approved personal fitness tracker is required. The course meets the general education requirements for both Health and Nutrition PHE 281 and a PHE activity course.
PHE 291 – Physical Education Class – Coed: 1 credit
Physical education activity classes, group games, individual and team sports dealing with the rules, skills, and strategies of the various sports taught and emphasizing carry-over value. This course varies from semester to semester but covers a variety of activities, games, and sports.
PHE 281 – Health and Nutrition: 1 credit
This course is an overview of personal health and stress management strategies for identifying and preventing health problems. Successful exercise, wellness, and nutrition programs are introduced. May be taken one time only. This course is required of all students.
PHE 271 – Weight Training: 1 credit
A course designed to introduce the student to basic weight training principles and techniques with a concentration on physical conditioning.
PHE 262 – Principles of Coaching and Sports First Aid: 2 credits
A course designed to introduce basic principles and methods of coaching sports in the school program. This course focuses on meeting the ASEP requirements for coaching certification (currently recognized in 39 states). Attention is also given to the development of a coaching philosophy, the components of an effective practice plan and to help understand the coach’s responsibilities, legalities, and obligations as it relates to first aid for athletes.
PHE 251 – Volleyball – Coed: 1 credit
A course designed to develop volleyball skills with concentration on rules, regulations and physical conditioning.
PHE 233 – Walking and Workouts: 1 credit
A course designed to introduce the student to aerobic exercise and conditioning with an emphasis on walking. The student will be learn how to systematically use the workout and weight room equipment available in the gym.
PHE 221 – Basketball: 1 credit
A course designed to develop basketball skills with a concentration on rules, regulations, and physical conditioning.
PHE 211 – Bowling and Walking: 1 credit
A course designed to introduce the student to aerobic exercise and conditioning with an emphasis on walking. Bowling: This portion of the course emphasizes the fundamental skills, rules and tactics of bowling, accomplished through personal instruction and participation at a local bowling establishment. For Deaf students only.
Fee: $33
PHE 201 – Physical Conditioning: 1 credit
An introduction to aerobic and anaerobic exercising with an emphasis on principles and techniques of physical conditioning.
PHE 200 – Intercollegiate Varsity Sports: 1 credit
A course for anyone desiring to participate in an officially recognized varsity sports program. One credit hour fulfills a PHE activity course and the remaining credits count toward fulfilling open elective requirements in a degree program. A maximum of four credit hours is permitted. A student must be academically eligible to participate.
OLT 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Old Testament: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
OLT 353 – Minor Prophets: 3 credits
A study of the books from Hosea through Malachi. The historical, prophetical and practical values of each book are emphasized.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 343 – Ezekiel: 3 credits
A study of the genre, organization and content of the prophecies of the book with respect to Ezekiel’s exilic setting and ministry. The theology, practical truths and prophetic teachings of the book are emphasized.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 333 – Jeremiah: 3 credits
A study of the life and prophecies of Jeremiah emphasizing its historical setting and fulfilled and unfulfilled prophecies. The book of Lamentations will be studied in its relationship to the book of Jeremiah.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 323 – Isaiah: 3 credits
An exegetical study of this prophetic book with an emphasis on its historical setting, literary qualities and theological teachings. The Christological prophecies in Isaiah and their fulfillment in the New Testament are highlighted.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 313 – Psalms and Wisdom Literature: 3 credits
A study of the books of Job through Song of Solomon with special emphasis on Psalms. Methods of studying Hebrew poetry are learned along with the values of each book for theology, worship and everyday life.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 303 – Historical Books: 3 credits
A study of the books of Joshua through Esther tracing the development of Israel into a kingdom and its subsequent dissolution. Attention is given to the theme of each book and the lessons derived from the relations of the ruler with God.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 213 – Pentateuch: 3 credits
A study of the first five books of the Old Testament. Special attention is given to sacred history, the Mosaic laws, ethical and moral values, and the creation of a people of God.
Prerequisite: OLT 123
OLT 123 – Old Testament Survey: 3 credits
A study of the historical settings, literary features, authorship, theological teachings, and general content of the books of the Hebrew Bible. This survey provides a factual and practical groundwork for further studies in the Old Testament.
NWT 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in New Testament: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
NWT 383 – Epistle to the Hebrews: 3 credits
A study of the Epistle to the Hebrews showing the exaltation of Christ as the final and complete revelation of God and His truth to mankind.
Prerequisite: NWT 113
NWT 363 – Prison Epistles: 3 credits
A study of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon, with special attention to their Christological content. Historical, geographical and biographical matters are also considered.
Prerequisite: NWT 113
NWT 333 – Romans: 3 credits
An exegetical study of the Epistle to the Romans emphasizing its contribution to Christian theology and life.
Prerequisite: NWT 113
NWT 313 – I and II Corinthians: 3 credits
A study of Paul’s treatment of church problems, with application to the present day Church. Paul’s defense of his apostolic call and ministry are the focus of II Corinthians.
Prerequisite: NWT 113
NWT 243 – Book of Acts: 3 credits
A study of the theological and practical teachings of the historical origins of the early Church. Special attention is given to the theology and work of the Holy Spirit in the evangelistic expansion of the Church.
Prerequisite: NWT 113
NWT 223 – Gospels: The Life of Jesus: 3 credits
A comprehensive study of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) including the background and authorship of each book and its particular content and orientation. The life and ministry of Christ is studied. Key parables are studied and interpreted.
Prerequisite: NWT 113
NWT 113 – New Testament Survey: 3 credits
A panoramic view of the chief events, prominent characters, main themes and salient teachings of each New Testament book in relation to its historical, geographical and cultural contexts.
MUS 791 – Gospel Choir: 0.5 credits
This ensemble is a journey through the genre of gospel music in America. From its birth in the early 1930s, the journey will include traditional spirituals and hymns through the modern gospel music of the 21st century. The gospel choir is open to all students, including non-music majors and will travel approximately twice per month. Instrumentalists will be selected based on audition.
Fee: $30
MUS 781 – Handbell Ensemble: 0.5 credit
Handbell Ensemble includes an introduction to handbell ringing, performances, and procedures for creating a handbell choir. The class is open to both music majors and non-music majors with an interest in handbells and includes weekly rehearsals and several on- and off-campus performances. Course may be taken for credit or non-credit and admission is by approval of instructor.
MUS 771 – Wind Ensemble: 0.5 credit
An instrumental organization open to all students. The band presents concerts in the college chapel, area churches and provides music for college events, e.g., college sports events. For credit or non-credit. Admission by approval of the instructor.
Fee: $35
MUS 761 – String Ensemble: 0.5 credit
An ensemble open to violinists, violists, cellists and string bass players. This organization will fulfill the required ensemble credits for string students enrolled in all three music major programs. This ensemble will perform on campus throughout the academic year. Course may be taken for credit or non-credit and admission is by approval of instructor.
MUS 751 – University Choir: 0.5 credit
A non-touring choir formed for participation in chapel services, special on-campus events, and occasional off-campus events. Students are required to purchase their own attire. Open to students and non-students for credit or non-credit.
Fee: $80
MUS 742 – Women’s Vocal Ensemble: 0.5 credit
An ensemble devoted to performing a variety of classical, sacred, contemporary and gospel music. This group performs on or off-campus and may be taken for credit only.
Prerequisite: Permission from instructor or Department Chair and concurrent enrollment in MUS 711
MUS 741 – Men’s Vocal Ensemble: 0.5 credit
A small vocal ensemble performing a variety of sacred, contemporary and gospel music. This ensemble performs on and off-campus and may be taken for credit or non-credit.
Prerequisite: Permission from instructor and concurrent enrollment in MUS 711.
MUS 740 – Opera Workshop: 0.5 credit
A small ensemble allowing students to participate in a variety of scenes, focusing on diction, acting, movement, and staging.
Fee $60.
MUS 731 – Percussion Ensemble: 0.5 credit
Percussion Ensemble is open to both music majors and non-music majors with a background and interest in percussion. This organization fulfills the required ensemble credits for percussion students enrolled in all three music major programs. The ensemble will perform on campus throughout the academic year. Course may be taken for credit or non-credit and admission is by approval of instructor.
MUS 730 – Madrigals: 0.5 credit
A small mixed choral ensemble open to all students by audition. Music of the Renaissance and Baroque eras will be featured.
Fee $60
MUS 721 – Accompanying Ensemble: 0.5 credit
An ensemble open to music majors whose primary instrument is the piano. Participants will be required to accompany vocal and instrumental students in the context of private lessons and on-campus recitals. Music majors receive ensemble credit for their participation and may enroll up to four semesters.
MUS 720 – Woodwind Ensemble: 0.5 credit
An ensemble with flexible instrumentation. Group performs standard Woodwind Quintet, Quartet or Trio literature as well as sacred pieces.
MUS 711 – Concert Choir: 0.5-1 credit
The touring choir of the college. Vocalists, accompanists and instrumentalists are selected by audition and must be academically eligible to participate. Enrollment in fall semester requires a 1-year commitment since tours are scheduled throughout the year. Students are required to purchase their own attire. Non-music majors may take Concert Choir for up to one credit; music majors for 0.5 credit only.
Prerequisite: audition and concurrent enrollment in MUS 751.
Fee: $80
MUS 710 – Brass Ensemble: 0.5 credit
An ensemble open to all brass students. The organization will perform standard brass literature and some sacred pieces.
MUS 705 – Piano Ensemble: 0.5 credit
Offered to advanced piano majors by permission of instructor. Participants will explore and perform classical repertoire written for two pianists (four hands). The repertoire will be varied to include music for one piano, as well as music for two pianos. Music majors receive secondary ensemble credit.
MUS 703 – Orchestra: 0.5 credit
An instrumental ensemble organized primarily to accompany the choral ensembles for concerts on and off campus. This group is open to students, faculty, and staff by invitation, audition, or permission from the director. Ensemble may be taken for credit or audit.
MUS 701 – Guitar Ensemble: 0.5 credit
Guitar Ensemble is open to both music majors and non-music majors with a background and interest in electric or acoustic guitar. This organization fulfills the required ensemble credits for guitar students enrolled in all three music major programs. The ensemble will perform on campus throughout the academic year. Course may be taken for credit or non-credit and admission is by approval of instructor.
MUS 700 – Instrumental Ensembles: 0.5 credit
Special instrumental groups may be formed if there is sufficient interest. For credit or non-credit.
Admission by approval of the instructor.
MUS 671-2 – Piano Improvisation: 1-2 credits
Skills of piano improvisation are introduced in this class. Techniques of playing chords, octaves, arpeggios, transposition, modulation, and various playing styles are explored. Essential qualities of skillful piano improvisation will be defined and developed.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
MUS 665 – Applied Strings: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for stringed instruments according to the student’s ability.
MUS 664 – Applied Brass: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for brass instruments according to the student’s ability.
MUS 663 – Applied Woodwind: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for woodwind instruments according to the student’s ability.
MUS 481 – Internship: 1-3 credits
This phase of the student’s education is to provide a supervised experience in direct ministry. All internships must be approved and processed through the Internship office. Internships can range from 4 to 15 weeks. An internship must be for at least 1 credit hour but can be expanded for up to 3 credit hours. A comprehensive journal is required that addresses the student’s activities during the internship and issues of development in their area of ministry. Written evaluations are required by the intern and the on-site supervisor. Internships are tailored in conjunction with the student’s focus of development and future ministry plans.
MUS 662 – Applied Percussion: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for percussion according to the student’s ability.
MUS 661-5 – Applied Instrumental Instruction: 1-2 credits
Instruction in non-keyboard instruments as appropriate instructors are available.
MUS 661 – Applied Guitar: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for guitar according to the student’s ability.
MUS 651-2 – Applied Voice: 1-2 credits
Instruction in understanding the singing voice and establishing a sound vocal technique. Literature studied will include a standard vocal repertoire in English and foreign languages as well as hymns and gospel songs.
Prerequisite: MUS 611 or voice proficiency audition and MUS 631 or music reading audition
MUS 641-2 – Applied Organ: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for organ according to the student’s ability.
MUS 631-2 – Applied Piano: 1-2 credits
Offered at all levels of instruction. Literature is chosen from standard works for piano according to the student’s ability.
Prerequisite: MUS 622 or piano proficiency audition.
MUS 622 – Class Piano II: 1 credit
A continuation of MUS 621. Meets twice per week. This course does not count toward general education credits needed for graduation if the student is a music major or minor.
Prerequisite: MUS 621
Class fee: $30
MUS 621 – Class Piano I: 1 credit
An introduction to the fundamentals of keyboard technique. Beginning piano students must enroll in this course. Meets twice per week. This course does not count toward general education credits needed for graduation if the student is a music major or minor.
Class fee: $30
MUS 472 – Instrumental Pedagogy: 2 credits
A course designed to provide the student with concepts and techniques of teaching brass, woodwind, percussion or guitar.
MUS 462 – Vocal Pedagogy: 2 credits
A course designed to provide the student with concepts and techniques of teaching voice.
MUS 452 – Piano Pedagogy: 2 credit
A course designed to provide the student with the concepts and techniques of teaching piano. The class will study historical aspects of piano pedagogy in the United States, survey current methods and materials related to teaching piano, and examine methods and procedures of professional studio organization and management.
MUS 450 – Applied Composition: 2 credits
Applied composition lessons are structured to encourage creativity and to lead to the development of a unique individual style of composition. Initial lessons provide experiences in the style of major composers from the Baroque, Classic, Romantic, Impressionist, and Contemporary periods. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
An additional fee of $395 is required.
MUS 442 – Instrumental Literature: 2 credits
A survey of instrumental and orchestral literature from all periods of music history.
MUS 432 – Vocal Literature: 2 credits
A survey of the vocal literature from all periods of music history.
MUS 422 – Piano Literature: 2 credits
A survey of the keyboard literature from all periods of music history.
MUS 412 – Choral & Instrumental Arranging: 3 credits
A course designed to introduce students to musical techniques of arranging for both choral and instrumental ensembles. Students will apply their musical knowledge in a variety of creative writing assignments. Required for Church Music, Worship Leading, and Music Performance majors.
Prerequisite: MUS 233
MUS 411 – Seminar in Contemporary Music: 2 credit
A seminar course that explores topics including: concert promotion, booking, developing the concert program, and stage presence, as well as Web commerce and ministry organization finances.
Prerequisite: MUS 231 and 233
MUS 410 – Senior Recital: 0 credits
A senior project consisting of a performance of at least 50 minutes of music. Students in Church Music will perform a 30-minute recital on their primary instrument and a 20-minute conducting recital. Students in Music Performance will present a 50-minute recital entirely on their primary applied instrument, emphasizing classical music literature from all periods of music history.
Course fee of $165.
MUS 403 – Songwriting: 3 credits
A course designed to introduce the techniques of writing worship choruses. The class will emphasize the development of melodic ideas, crafting song sections that combine into a unified whole, formal structure, harmonic progressions, and writing lyrics based on sound biblical theology.
Prerequisites: MUS 151 and 153
MUS 382 – Instrumental Conducting: 2 credits
Explores techniques of instrumental conducting, including problems of the instrumental medium. The course also includes an analysis and interpretation of literature appropriate for use in schools and the community. Students conduct the Wind Ensemble.
Prerequisite: MUS 342
MUS 362 – Choral Conducting: 2 credits
Explores techniques of choral conducting, including group vocal technique and repertoire. Attention is given to various style periods and their characteristic sound quality.
Prerequisite: MUS 342
MUS 342 – Basic Conducting: 2 credits
A course designed to introduce the student to the fundamental concepts of conducting. Beat patterns, entrances and releases, cueing, score preparation and rehearsing will be covered.
Prerequisite: MUS 153
MUS 333 – Music History III: 3 credits
A study of composers, musical styles and developments from 1901 to the present. This course will examine music in form, performance and practice including world music, folk, and jazz.
MUS 323 – Music History II: 3 credits
A continuation of Music History I The Classic, Romantic and Modern periods will be studied. The major composers, forms, and styles of music from 1750 to the present will be emphasized. Specific attention will be given to church music masters.
MUS 320 – Junior Recital: 0 credits
A junior-level project required of students enrolled in the contemporary track of the Music Performance degree. The recital will consist of at least 45 minutes of contemporary Christian music and will feature the student as soloist.
MUS 313 – Music History I: 3 credits
Studies of the periods and styles of music in theory, form, performance and practice. Important people, places and events that affect the development of church music will be discussed. Historical influences and important events of church music history will be surveyed. Covers the period from antiquity through the Baroque. Attention will be given to church masters.
MUS 310 – Piano Proficiency: 0 credits
Required of all Music majors as well as music minors. All sections of the piano proficiency exam must be passed by the end of the junior year. See Music Department Handbook for details.
MUS 302 – Rhythm Section Methods: 2 credits
A course designed for worship leaders to explore the unique roles and features of the various instruments in the rhythm section of a worship band. An emphasis will be placed on how to communicate with the instrumentalists by using appropriate musical terminology.
MUS 233 – Music Theory IV: 3 credits
A continuation of Music Theory III with emphasis on advanced chromatic harmony, late nineteenth-and twentieth-century practices, musical form, and counterpoint.
Prerequisite: MUS 223
MUS 231 – Aural Skills IV: 1 credit
A continuation of Aural Skills III. Concurrent enrollment in MUS 233.
Prerequisite: Aural Skills III or pass a placement exam.
MUS 223 – Music Theory III: 3 credits
A continuation of Music Theory II with emphasis on secondary dominant chords, modulation, binary and ternary forms, borrowed chords, and augmented sixth chords.
Prerequisite: MUS 153
MUS 221 – Aural Skills III: 1 credit
A continuation of Aural Skills II. Concurrent enrollment in MUS 223.
Prerequisite: Aural Skills II or pass a placement exam.
MUS 212 – Guitar Class II: 1 credit
This class is designed to refine the techniques introduced in Guitar Class I, with an emphasis on applying those techniques in the context of worship choruses. Students will continue to develop their skills by playing the most common chords and chord progressions with rhythmic stability.
MUS 201 – Guitar Class I: 1 credit
An introduction to the fundamentals of playing acoustic guitar for worship. Basic techniques of playing chords, chord voicing, strumming, and fingerpicking will be explored.
MUS 153 – Music Theory II: 3 credits
A continuation of Music Theory I with emphasis on harmonic progression, triads in inversion, musical form, non-chord tones, and seventh chords.
Prerequisite: MUS 143
MUS 143 – Music Theory I: 3 credits
A course designed to give the student a theoretical and practical knowledge of the fundamentals of music. Scales, key signatures, intervals, rhythm, triads, and diatonic harmony are studied. Emphasis is placed on four-part choral style writing. A study of the harmonic, melodic, and formal elements of music.
Prerequisite: MUS 142 and/or pass music placement exam.
MUS 142 – Fundamentals of Music: 3 credits
A remedial course designed to introduce music majors and music minors to the fundamental elements of music. Enrollment, determined by examination, will emphasize basic musical concepts. Since the class is considered remedial in nature, it does not fulfill graduation requirements for music majors and music minors. Music majors and music minors must earn a grade of C or higher to continue into Music Theory I. This course can count towards a general elective for non-music majors.
MUS 141 – Aural Skills I: 1 credit
A course designed to develop sight-singing as well as melodic, rhythmic and harmonic dictation. Concurrent enrollment in MUS 143.
Prerequisite: Passing score on music placement exam.
MUS 010 – Recital Hour: 0 credits
A course designed to accommodate studio classes, master-classes, general department recitals, Junior Recitals, and Senior Recitals. Students will perform in one or more of these sessions each semester.
Course Fee: $25
MTN 551 – Pro Tools Operator: 3 credits
The coursework covers the core concepts and skills required to operate Pro Tools in a professional studio environment. The main tiopics in this course are followed by exercises that bring the student step-by-step through the Pro Tools functions that are critical for successful work in the digital audio field. Students will use Pro Tools Flex software. The course covers Offical AVID courseware for Pro Tools 201: Pro Tools Production II and Pro Tools 210 M: Music Production Techniques. Students may achieve Pro Tools Professional Certification upon successful completion of the 201 & 210 Certification Exams.
Pre-requisites: MTN 253 and/or successful completion of ProTools Specialist Certification
Equipment Access Fee: $118 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 481 – Music Internship: 3 credits
This course is designed to enhance academic learning with practical, hands-on experience. Music Production students may complete their internships in one or more of the following areas: recording studio, live production, broadcast, video production, church audio technician. Each credit hour equates to 75 hours of actual work experience. Work must be approved by the Department Chair.
Pre-requisite: Junior or Senior standing and faculty approval
MTN 463 – Mixing/Post-Production: 3 credits
A course designed to introduce the student to the final stages of the recording process. Emphasis will be placed on manual mixing, automation, mastering, and the distribution processes.
Prerequisite: MTN 253
Equipment Access Fee: $118 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 451 – Advanced Pro Tools (Undergraduate): 3 credits
The course covers advanced concepts and skills required to operate Pro Tools in a professional studio environment. The main topics in this course follow AVID Professional courseware are followed by exercises that bring the student step-by- step through Pro Tools functions critical for successful work in the digital audio field. Students will have access to Pro Tools Flex software. The course uses official AVID courseware Pro Tools 201: Pro Tools Production II.
Prerequisites: MTN 253 and 423; successful completion of ProTools Specialist Certification.
MTN 441 – Senior Audio Project/Recital: 3 credits
This is a capstone course for senior Music Production/Digital Media- Recording Arts Majors. Students have the option of a recital on their primary instrument/compositions, a lecture recital, or a production project with a public presentation.
Permission of instructor
Applied Instruction Fee: $175 (all students)
MTN 423 – Multi-Track Recording: 3 credits
A course that develops upon the skills and techniques acquired in Digital Audio. Students will be introduced to the professional studio environment and will spend considerable time in live and studio sessions. Students will complete Avid Pro Tools 101 Official Courseware.
Prerequisite: MTN 263.
Equipment Access Fee: $118 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 415 – Audio for Film: 3 credits
Course explores concepts and applications of sound design and audio production for video including web, television, and film. Techniques used in post-production industry will be introduced including role of the sound designer and supervising sound editor in charge of dialog, sound effects, and music editing.
Prior experience with Pro Tools is required.
Prerequisite: MTN 263
MTN 410 – Production Workshop: 3 credits
A course for students with advanced recording skills ( Junior/Senior standing). The is a large project based course with each student completing projects such as: music album, broadcast audio program, technical project, audio for film, etc.
Permission of instructor
Applied Instruction fee
Equipment Access Fee: $118 (only for non-majors)
MTN 407 – Senior Audio Seminar: 1 credits
A project based course designed to specialize and create specific individualized projects for a student’s Senior Audio Project portfolio. Students will dive deep into pre-production for their capstone project work to provide adequate recorded content.
Prerequisite: Senior class standing and permission of instructor.
MTN 355 – Critical Listening: 1 credit
A course designed to help students develop critical listening skills related to music production. These include melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic issues as well as frequency and time alignment.
MTN 350 – Recording Workshop: 2 credits
A course for students with advanced recording skills ( Junior/ Senior standing). A project based course with students participating a variety challenging projects as determined by the instructor and student. Course may be taken only with permission. Course will require a combination of seminar/lab work. Course may be repeated for up to 4 credits with a max of 2 per semester.
Equipment Access Fee: $118 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 313 – Sound Reinforcement Systems: 3 credits
A survey of the array of professional audio reinforcement systems and their application in live sound reinforcement. Students will research and design audio reinforcement systems for multiple venues. Emphasis will also be placed on commonly encountered acoustical problems and techniques to neutralize them. Students will mix in simulated or live concert settings.
Prerequisite: MTN 233 or permission of Instructor
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 263 – Digital Audio: 3 credits
Introduction to digital audio production. This course includes practical experience in planning, coordinating, directing and producing various audio productions. Review of sound design principles and recording techniques for multi-track production in media production settings. Students learn the function and operation of digital audio workstations, microphones and signal processors as well as recording environments.
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 253 – Modern Music Production Techniques: 3 credit
A study of music production using historical, traditional, and current practices. Students will spend extensive time with current software including Reason, Logic and Pro Tools. Students will complete Pro Tools 110 Official Courseware and have opportunity to secure Pro Tools Certified Speaclist.
Prerequisite: MTN 423
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 233 – Principles of Audio Technology: 3 credits
A course that explores the fundamental physical laws of sound and acoustics as it applies to audio technology. Topics include psychoacoustics, wave propagation, frequency and time, as well as basic room acoustics.
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
MTN 125 – Introduction to Live Music Technology: 1 credit
A course designed to introduce students to the current music technologies utilized in live worship and performance settings. An emphasis will be placed on multi-track use in performance, Planning Center Online, and notation software.
MTN 123 – Introduction to Music Technology: 1 credit
An introduction to the basic concepts of computer-based sequencing, notation, recording and editing along with its application in the music industry. In addition, rudimentary sound reinforcement concepts will be explored.
MTN 111 – Basic Audio Reinforcement: 1 credit
A basic overview of professional audio equipment and its relative application in the field. Students will assemble, operate, troubleshoot and breakdown various audio systems. Open to all students.
MTH 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Mathematics: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
MTH 233 – Survey of Mathematics II: 3 credits
Specifically designed for education majors, this course is the second part of a six-credit mathematics requirement. Content includes algebraic reasonings, geometry, measurement, and probability and statistics. Critical thinking and problem solving strategies are emphasized. The course will include a unit on interpreting statistics in an educational setting.
Prerequisite: Completion of MTH 133 with a passing grade.
MTH 133 – Survey of Mathematics I: 3 credits
This course is the first part of a six-credit mathematics requirement designed specifically to give education majors a deep conceptual understanding of the mathematics taught in elementary and middle school. Topics covered include numeration, operations with rational numbers, and number theory. A problem-solving approach will be employed. Prerequisite: Minimum Score of 440 on Mathematics SAT, 18 on ACT math OR successful completion of MTH 107 with a grade of C- or higher.
MTH 123 – Quantitative Reasoning: 3 credits
This course applies mathematics to life skill areas for personal and professional use with an emphasis in problem-solving. Prerequisite: Minimum Score of 440 on Mathematics SAT, 18 on ACT math, OR successful completion of MTH 107 with a grade of C- or higher.
MTH 013-017 – Fundamentals of Mathematics I and II: 3 credits each
These courses review the basic math skills of mathematical patterns, systems of numeration, and modular arithmetic. Problem solving is emphasized. Placement is based on SAT and/or ACT scores. A passing grade of C- or higher is required. Students will receive a final grade of A, B, C, or F. Neither course counts toward general education credits needed for graduation.
MLE 223 – Field Experience (Stage 2): 0 credits
The aim of the field experience program at the University of Valley Forge is to provide education students with a progression of opportunities to apply theory to practice in an authentic educational setting. The purpose of the Stage 2 (sophomore) field experience is to foster observation and reflection; however, students will participate in class activities and, under the supervision of the cooperating teacher, may assist in the everyday events of the classroom. A university supervisor will visit the student at the field site periodically to ensure that a productive experience is taking place. Students will maintain a log that documents the hours spent at the field experience.
Prerequisite: EDU 133
MED 631 – Percussion Class: 0.5 credit
A practical study of the instruments of the percussion family: assembling, holding, maintenance; problems in teaching young players; examination of methods and materials; makes of instruments, quality, price. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 627 – String Class II: 0.5 credit
A practical study of the cello or bass: problems in teaching, examination of methods and materials for each instrument, fingering and bowing styles, shifting; tone production; manufacturing, quality, prices. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 617 – String Class I: 0.5 credit
A practical study of the instruments of the string family: problems in teaching, examination of methods and materials for each instrument, fingering and bowing styles, shifting; tone production; manufacturers, quality, prices. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 614 – Brass Class II: 0.5 credit
A practical study of the trombone and other low brass instruments: holding and maintenance of instrument; embouchure and tone production; transposition; positions and fingerings; range; problems in teaching young players; examination of methods and materials; manufacturers, quality, prices. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 613 – Brass Class I: 5 credit
A practical study of the trumpet and horn: holding and maintenance of instrument; embouchure and tone production; transposition; fingering; range; problems in teaching young players; examination of methods and materials; manufacturers, quality, prices. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 612 – Woodwind Class II: 0.5 credit
A practical study of flute and double reed instruments: assembling, holding and maintenance of instruments; embouchure and tone production; transposition; fingering; range; problems in teaching young players; examination of methods and materials; manufacturers, quality, prices. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 611 – Woodwind Class I: 0.5 credit
A practical study of the clarinet and saxophone: assembling, holding and maintenance of instrument; embouchure and tone production; transposition; fingering; range; problems in teaching young players; examination of methods and materials; manufacturers, quality, prices. Requires observation in a school program.
A course fee of $160 is required for the leasing of instruments.
MED 466 – Student Teaching: 12 credits
Observation and supervised teaching in vocal and instrumental music in an approved public school music department. Student teaching takes place in the senior year and is composed of two segments: seven weeks in an elementary classroom setting and seven weeks in a secondary setting. Course credit represents preparation and planning, classroom performance and classroom management. Students may not register for ensembles or lessons during the semester in which they student teach.
Prerequisite: MED 391 music education coordinator’s permission and acceptance into the music education program.
Corequisite: EDU 471
Student Teaching Fee: $600
MED 393 – Instrumental Methods & Materials: 3 credits Instructional methods and materials for teaching instrumental music at both the elementary and secondary schools levels.
Prerequisites: MED 313, MED 333
Includes field experiences
MED 392 – Choral Methods & Materials: 3 credits
Instructional methods and materials for teaching vocal music at the elementary and secondary school levels. Includes field experiences.
Prerequisites: MED 313 and MED 333
MED 373 – Technology in Music Education: 2 credits
A course designed to explore technology in the music classroom. Emphasis will be placed on instructional software, notation and production software, multimedia, music performance and internet resources. Students will create an electronic portfolio.
Prerequisite: MED 313
MED 333 – Secondary Music Methods & Materials: 3 credits
A class designed to equip the student with techniques necessary for teaching music in the high school setting. Emphasis will be placed on teaching craft and curriculum development. Includes field experiences.
Prerequisite: MED 313
MED 313 – Elementary Music Methods & Materials: 3 credits
A class designed to equip the student with techniques necessary for teaching music in the elementary school setting. Emphasis will be placed on teaching craft and curriculum development. Includes field experiences.
Prerequisites: MUS 223, MUS 221, PSY 223, EDU 263, PSY 383 and PHE 311
Formal admission into the music education program
LNG 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Advanced Language Study: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest in biblical or modern languages are offered as needed and as resources permit. Prerequisite: Basic language study, placement or approval of instructor.
LNG 395 – Linguistics of American Sign Language: 3 credits
The primary emphasis of this course is to examine the basic linguistics concepts identified in American Sign Language (ASL). The fundamentals of ASL linguistics will be addressed-phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax, and the pragmatics of language. Class content will consider various language related constructs, and shall include, but not be limited to, sentence types, temporal aspects and classifier use and production.
LNG 383-93 – Intermediate Spanish I – II: 3 credits each
Intensive training in conversation with additional practice in grammar, reading, and composition.
Prerequisite: LNG 293 or advanced placement
LNG 363-73 – Intermediate Hebrew I – II: 3 credits each
Advanced study of Hebrew grammar with investigation into less common usages of Hebrew grammar as found in the Old Testament. Emphasis will be on improvement of the student’s vocabulary and translation skills. This course may be used as a BIB/NWT/OLT/THE elective.
Prerequisite: LNG 273
LNG 343-53 – Intermediate Greek I – II: 3 credits each
A study of advanced grammar with translation of selected New Testament passages. Greek II is an introduction to biblical exegesis with emphasis upon proper historical, contextual, and theological considerations. Exegetical Studies will be made in selected portions of the New Testament. This course may be used as a BIB/NWT/OLT/THE elective.
Prerequisite: LNG 253
LNG 323-33 – Intermediate French I – II: 3 credits each
Intensive training in conversation with additional practice in grammar, reading, and composition.
Prerequisite: LNG 233 or advanced placement
LNG 313 – American Sign Language IV (ASL 4): 3 credits
This course takes a significant step beyond the learning of ASL vocabulary and basic grammar and syntax. This course serves as an introductory applied linguistics course in ASL. The intricacies of ASL are examined and practiced. ASL 3 serves as a pre-requisite for this course.
Prerequisite: LNG 303 or advanced placement
LNG 303 – American Sign Language III (ASL 3): 3 credits
As a continuation of ASL 2, ASL 3 will focus on the practical linguistics of American Sign Language with increasing student’s vocabulary as a secondary focus. A deeper understanding of the culture of the American Deaf Community is explored through participation in community events as well as required research emphasis.
Prerequisite: LNG 223 or advanced placement
LNG 283-93 – Beginning Spanish I – II: 3 credits each
Essential elements of Spanish grammar, pronunciation, simple conversation, reading, and composition. Spanish II is a continuation of Spanish I.
LNG 263-73 – Beginning Hebrew I – II: 3 credits each
An introduction to the basic elements of Old Testament Hebrew, with emphasis upon basic vocabulary, syntax, and grammar. Hebrew II is a continuation of Hebrew I.
LNG 243-53 – Beginning Greek I – II: 3 credits each
An introduction to the basic elements of New Testament Greek, with emphasis upon grammatical forms, syntax, and vocabulary. Greek II is a continuation of Greek I and includes readings in the Greek New Testament.
LNG 240 – Introduction to Biblical Languages: 3 credits
An introduction to biblical languages including an overview of pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary of biblical Hebrew and Koine Greek. Emphasis is given to the function and use of the languages for biblical studies.
LNG 223 – American Sign Language II (ASL 2): 3 credits
ASL 2 is a continuation of ASL 1, making ASL 1 a pre-requisite to this course. Chapters 7 – 13 of Signing Naturally are thoroughly covered in this course increasing the student’s vocabulary and practical understanding and use of this distinct language.
Prerequisite: LNG 213 or advanced placement
LNG 213 – American Sign Language I (ASL 1): 3 credits
ASL I is designed as an introductory course to the American Deaf Community. Basic Language of Signs, grammatical elements, and syntax are taught. Students are introduced to cultural characteristics that are distinct to the American Deaf Community. Chapters 1 – 6 of Signing Naturally are thoroughly covered at this level. Advanced placement possible.
LNG 203-33 – Beginning French I – II: 3 credits each
An introduction to the essential elements of spoken and written French with particular emphasis on oral proficiency, aural comprehension, and reading. French II is a continuation of French I.
LIT 495 – Senior Seminar: 3 credits
An intensive study of a literary topic, this course provides English majors the opportunity to demonstrate advanced research and writing skills. The seminar project includes an oral presentation to other majors and to the faculty of the English department. Students should choose a topic and faculty advisor a semester before enrolling in LIT 495.
LIT 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Literature: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
LIT 433 – Shakespeare & His Contemporaries: 3 credits
A study of Shakespeare’s tragedies, history plays, comedies, and romances, their distinctive features and cultural and historical context, with an emphasis on a critical analysis of the text and an appreciation of Shakespeare’s great artistry as a dramatist.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 393 – The Literature of Women: 3 credits
A reading of women writers placed in their historical and literary contexts to explore issues such as the phases of a female literary tradition; the impact of sex and/or gender on literary themes and writing styles; and canon formation.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 391 – The Victorian Novel: 3 credits
This is a study of the Victorian novel as a reflection of the period in which it is situated. The politics, mores, and worldview of the Victorians serve as the backdrop to the consideration of such major Victorian voices as Dickens, Hardy, Bronte, and Eliot.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 383 – Detective Literature: 3 credits
A scholarly evaluation of multicultural detective fiction written by classic and contemporary writers with the goal of illustrating how theology, feminism, multicultural and ethnic issues, and other serious topics can be woven into this genre which is sometimes dismissed as mere entertainment.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 381 – Major Author Studies: 3 credits
Covers the life and selected works of one or more major writers such as Dickens, Hardy, Milton, Twain or Faulkner. Since the author(s) studied varies, this course may be taken more than once.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 371 – Modern/Postmodern Novel: 3 credits
A study of modern and postmodern novels on both sides of the Atlantic, emphasizing the distinctive way in which writers use style, structure, and technical experiment to express their views of the world. The significance of innovative literature techniques such as point of view, impressionism, stream of consciousness, and authorial impersonality will also be explored.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 364 – World Literature II: 3 credits
A critical and historical study of masterpieces of world literature from the Enlightenment through the Postmodern period. The course includes Western and non-Western literature and deals with a variety of literary forms including poetry, drama, short stories, novellas, and non-fiction.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 363 – World Literature I: 3 credits
A critical and historical study of masterpieces of world literature from the Ancient World, Middle Ages, and Renaissance.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 353 – Biblical Literature & its Contemporary Counterparts: 3 credits
This course will offer students the opportunity to read widely among the various literatures of the Bible and its literary counterparts found in poetry, prose, and fiction. The course will attempt to explore and analyze the relationship between the sacred and the secular by using works from John Milton, C.S. Lewis, T.S. Eliot, George Herbert, William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and several others. Several traditional as well as modern models of literary criticism will be considered.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 347 – A Novel Conversion: 3 credits
The course grapples with the fundamental questions of human experiences from a religious or spiritual perspective. Some Biblical works will be included; however, the focus will be on how religious ideas and concerns have informed an enormous diversity of literary productions drawn on a variety of traditions (including non-Western and non-monotheistic ones.)
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 325 – Literature for Adolescents & Young Adults: 3 credits
The course explores quality adolescent and young adult literature, censorship of adolescent and young adult literature, various approaches to reading adolescent and young adult literature, including reader response criticism, close reading strategies, and contemporary critical theories; the imagined reader(s) of young adult texts, and, by extension, the recent history of the cultural construction of the “teenager”; the application of cultural theories to analyses of adolescent and young adult literature as not only literary texts but also parallel cultural artifacts and mass-produced products; issues of multiculturalism, globalism, and diverse audiences and subject matter; and the relation of adolescent literature to “classic” adult literature.
Prerequisites: ENG 123
LIT 325 – Literature for Adolescents & Young Adults: 3 credits
The course explores quality adolescent and young adult literature, censorship of adolescent and young adult literature, various approaches to reading adolescent and young adult literature, including reader response criticism, close reading strategies, and contemporary critical theories; the imagined reader(s) of young adult texts, and, by extension, the recent history of the cultural construction of the “teenager”; the application of cultural theories to analyses of adolescent and young adult literature as not only literary texts but also parallel cultural artifacts and mass-produced products; issues of multiculturalism, globalism, and diverse audiences and subject matter; and the relation of adolescent literature to “classic” adult literature.
Prerequisites: ENG 123
LIT 303 – The Theology of C. S. Lewis: 3 credits
This course explores the writing of C. S. Lewis, who insisted his works be judged by their literary merit and not only their theology. Themes of pain and suffering, the cultural relevance of Christianity, and biblical reflection in Lewis’s fiction and apologetics will be analyzed.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 291 – Introduction to Literary Criticism: 3 credits
A study of literary theory and contemporary interpretive practices, including formalist, biographical, psychoanalytic, historical, structuralist, poststructuralist, sociological, Marxist, feminist, reader response, and deconstructionist.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 273 – Children’s Literature: 3 credits
A survey of children’s literary classics. Students will learn to analyze and evaluate a wide range of children’s literature. In addition, the role of literature in children’s growth and development will be explored.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 265 – Genres of Deaf Literature: 3 credits
Three forms of Deaf literature are read and studied: fiction, drama, and poetry. Readings from each are highlighted, offering a wide range of stories of Deaf culture by classic modern writers/signers. For Deaf Students only and DCS majors who have successfully completed LNG 313 ASL IV or equivalent.
LIT 255 – Multicultural Literature in America: 3 credits
A study of multicultural literature that explores the cultural diversity of America. Readings will be selected, at the discretion of the instructor, from a variety of ethnic literatures. Literary texts are situated in their historical contexts and the values and varieties of life in America are examined through analysis. Representative authors are studied from the colonial period to the present.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 254 – American Literature II: 3 credits
A study of the major writers, works, and movements from the Civil War to the Postmodern period, with an emphasis on literature that reflects diverse cultures such as Native, African-, Asian-, and Hispanic-American.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 253 – American Literature I: 3 credits
A study of the major writers, works, and movements from the discovery of the New World to the Civil War, with an emphasis on literature that reflects diverse cultures such as Native, African-, Asian-, and Hispanic-American.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 244 – Chaucer and Medieval Literature: 3 credits
An examination of the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer, specifically The Canterbury Tales, in the context of history, language, and culture of Chaucer’s 14th century England. This course will reference other authors of the period.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 243 – English Literature: 3 credits
A critical and historical study of selected English literature from the fifth century to the present. Representative authors from each period are selected so that students may gain an appreciation for outstanding authors and an understanding of the society in which each lived.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 223 – Creative Writing: 3 credits
This course combines technical lectures and writing workshops to enable students to develop a personal writing style and voice through experimentation with writing in a variety of forms (nonfiction, fiction, poetry, etc.). The course focuses on elements (theme, style, diction, point of view, etc.) relevant to all forms of literary practice and introduces students to representative texts from a range of time periods. Students approach literature as critics and as practitioners. Skills in revising and marketing are taught.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 213 – Science Fiction Literature: 3 credits
A scholarly evaluation of science fiction and fantasy fiction written by classic and contemporary writers with the goal of illustrating how theology, feminism, multicultural and ethnic issues, and other serious topics can be woven into this genre which is sometimes dismissed as mere entertainment.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 203 – Understanding and Appreciating Poetry: 3 credits
This course will focus on the study of poetry as an art form, literary genre, and medium for personal expression. Students will develop skills necessary for reading, analyzing, and understanding poetry while examining the works of renowned poets.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
LIT 103 – Introduction to Literature: 3 credits
This course studies selected works of poetry, fiction, and drama, providing an overview of literature with emphasis on analyzing and using literary tools to examine literary structures and explore the meaning of individual works, as well as their influence on cultural awareness.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
JUS 491, 492 or 493 – Topics in Criminal Justice: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
JUS 450 – Homeland Security: 3 credits
The course examines the USA PATRIOT Act and will examine why the government and the public began to question and scrutinize the country’s intelligence mechanisms, and national security structure and procedures. During this course there will be an opportunity to examine the creation, development, and organizational structure of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). As part of the examination of DHS, there will be opportunities to also examine entities such as the Transportation Safety Administration, which was established after 9/11. This course will also examine other developments due to the attacks on 9/11 such as the detention and torture of “enemy combatants” in Iraq and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and consider whether the nation’s security needs justify the consequent restrictions on our freedoms.
Prerequisite: JUS 125 and JUS 245
JUS 446 – Police Leadership: 3 credits
Presents an in depth review of the police organization’s function, types of leadership, policies in police organizations, facing challenges, and organizational problems confronting police agencies. Students study the decision making process within law enforcement and how the decision process impacts crime.
Prerequisites: JUS 311
JUS 442 – Victimology & Restorative Justice: 3 credits
Focuses on the process of victimization and how violent crime devastates its victims, victim-offender relationships and victim-police interactions. Studies cooperative measures whereby victims, offenders and communities are restored through victim/offender mediation, conferencing, victim assistance, ex-offender assistance, community service and restitution. Examines how relationships between victims, offenders, communities and the government’s response to crime affects the crime rate.
Prerequisite: JUS 432
JUS 435 – Constitutional Rights & Limits: 3 credits
Examines body of constitutional law associated with the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Eighth Amendments and evaluates the protection of criminal defendants’ rights in the United States today. Discusses case law surrounding the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause.
JUS 432 – Corrections & Penology: 3 credits
This course begins with a historical overview of the penal system development, leading to the implementation of modern institutions, incarceration practices, and correctional ideologies. The student will also become familiar with sentencing, constitutional issues of incarceration, parole, probation, and alternatives to imprisonment.
Prerequisites: JUS 311 and JUS 313
JUS 425 – Cybersecurity: 3 credits
A technological survey of computer-based crimes and how common criminals and terrorists use today’s technology to cause widespread victimization via information systems. An overview of investigative and legal issues are considered as it pertains to legalities under the First and Fourth Amendment, US Patriot Act, and other legislative authorities.
Prerequisite: JUS 245
JUS 413 – Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice: 3 credits
A survey of current issues plaguing the criminal justice system and the intervention methods the criminal justice community uses to counter these concerns. Students analyze issues such as drug abuse, the development of gangs, sex crimes, cybersecurity, community policing, juvenile delinquency, privatization of corrections, and community/police relations.
Prerequisite: JUS 432
JUS 345 – Mock Trial: 3 credits
Course in being a trial lawyer. Students will master the Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE) and apply them in a trial advocacy setting, either through the introduction of testimonial, documentary, or demonstrative evidence and/or by objecting to said admission of evidence. The student will perform all phases of a mock trial, from opening statements, direct, and cross-examinations (with objections), introducing evidence, jury instructions, and closing arguments. Last two weeks will be devoted to a full mock trial exercise.
Prerequisite: JUS 313
JUS 325 – Criminalistics & Forensic Science: 3 credits
Through a systematic approach the student builds upon basic investigative knowledge and focuses on forensic sciences, scientific methodology, and practical applications used to enhance criminal investigations. Emphasis is given to crime scene processing, DNA analysis, trace analysis, and other forensic disciplines used to solve crimes.
Prerequisite: JUS 244
JUS 313 – Constitutional Criminal Procedure: 3 Credits
An examination of how the Constitution and the appellate courts drive the rights of the accused and the limits of government power in criminal court processes from investigation, arrest and trial through conviction, sentencing, corrections and appeal. The study will include the interplay between Constitutionally protected civil rights and the role of government. Court cases and current events will be examined.
Prerequisites: JUS 101 and 125
JUS 311 – Law Enforcement Administration & Management: 3 credits
Defines and analyses the criminal justice system from an organizational point of view. Topics include organizational theories, models, and typologies of various law enforcement organizations. Administrative and managerial approaches and concepts of leadership are also explored.
Prerequisite: JUS 313
JUS 245 – Terrorism: 3 credits
Study encompasses a survey of the origins of terrorism and how diverse terrorist groups, both domestic and foreign, were established in different regions of the world. Concentration then shifts to analyzing terrorist trends and strategies, and explores methods of enforcement used to respond to and prevent terrorist attacks.
Prerequisite: JUS 101
JUS 244 – Criminology: 3 credits
An introductory course that investigates the major criminological theories surrounding social causes of criminal behavior. This course introduces classical and neo-classical theories concerning crime and punishment, how offenders learn to commit crime and develop their criminal behavior. Students will also research policies inspired by each theory and examine their societal impact.
Prerequisite: JUS 101
JUS 235 – Juvenile Delinquency & Justice: 3 credits
Presents and identifies the causes and influences of delinquent behavior, and suggests strategies for prevention. Focus is given on how delinquency develops, persists, and effects an individual’s life. The student will also become familiar with techniques used to divert delinquent behavior and modern treatment interventions.
Prerequisites: JUS 101 and 125
JUS 125 – American Courts: 3 credits
The student will explore the varying jurisdictions of federal, state, and local municipality courts, their areas of legal responsibility, including pretrial, trial, sentencing procedures, and appellate processes. Court alternatives, juvenile courts, specialty courts, and other judiciary topics are also explored.
JUS 101 – Introduction to Criminal Justice: 3 credits
An introduction to the criminal justice system that focuses on fundamental concepts and ideas surrounding today’s law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional institutions. Students will survey the function of each component independently and collectively.
ICS 498 – Independent Study: 3 credits
Directed reading and research during the student’s study experience. Topics are individually designed according to student interest and in consultation with instructor.
ICS 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Intercultural Ministry: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
ICS 485 – Capstone: 3 credits
Students complete a capstone paper that evaluates and integrates the totality of the student’s studies and experience. Practical experiences will also focus on implementing and modeling previous course concepts through direct interactions. An emphasis would be placed on preparing students for post-graduation ministry.
Prerequisite ICS 123, PST 443 and course instructor approval
ICS 481 – Internship: 1-3 credits
This internship provides a supervised experience in learning and ministering interculturally. Internships are tailored according to the student’s major. One academic credit will be given for each month of successful completion of 75 hours of field work.
Prerequisite: ICS 471
ICS 471 – Internship Seminar: 2 credits
This course is to prepare the student for his/her internship. Emphasis will be placed upon self-understanding, conflict resolution, and the practical concerns faced by interns. Time will also be given to formalize the specifics for each internship.
ICS 456 – Urban Evangelism & Church Planting: 3 credits
Strategies for evangelism and church development are examined and applied through case studies, field trips, contacts with resource persons, and student led projects. The course will incorporate practical application of evangelism and church planting in the urban context.
ICS 453 – Church Planting and Revitalization Boot Camp: 3 credits
The student will participate in an Assemblies of God or other approved church planting “Bootcamp” (typically a one week intensive) in a District of the student’s choice. The experience includes: assessment of giftings, temperaments, practical living, healthy ministry habits, and essential components and steps for planting a new church, etc. Pre and post-class work will be required.
ICS 322 – Area Studies: 2-3 credits
A survey of a particular geographic area of the world with its cultural, historical, socio-economic, political and religious distinctions. The focus is on strategies for intercultural ministry. Geographic areas of study vary: Asia, Eastern and Western Europe, Northern Africa and the Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Oceania. May be repeated depending on content.
ICS 223 – Outreach & Discipleship Programs: 3 credits
A study of the total church program of evangelism and follow-up ministry. Provides a theoretical and practical basis for the establishment of outreach and discipleship programs in the church. Evaluates the philosophy and design of several established programs.
ICS 209 – Spiritual Encounters: 3 credits
This course examines the principles and dynamics of spiritual conflict. Issues include theological reflection, cultural analysis, and pragmatic considerations such as spiritual discipline and the implications for mission strategies. The course includes a biblical examination of the principles of spiritual warfare, intercession, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
ICS 142 – Cultural Anthropology: 3 credits
This course is an introduction to the field of Cultural Anthropology and ethnographic analysis, and aims to provide the essential tools for intercultural ministers towards understanding and negotiating cultural and social differences in our interconnected globalized world. Topics within this course include: The concept of culture, epistemology, theories of cultural anthropology, globalization, contextualization, the dynamics of identities (ethnicity, religion, etc.), and principles of ethnography.
Prerequisite: ICS 123
ICS 123 – Introduction to Missions: 3 credits
Introduction to basic missions theory and practice. Special attention will be given to practical issues such as missions funding and missionary relations with the national church, sending church, and supporters.
HIS 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in History: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
HIS 383 – Modern and Contemporary Christian History: 3 credits
A survey of Christianity from 1500 AD to the present. Emphasis is placed on major events, individuals, and developments in historical theology. Special topics include the Protestant and Catholic Reformations, evangelization of the Western Hemisphere, Puritanism, the development of denominations, revivalism, fundamentalism, the rise of theological liberalism, Vatican II, and the 20th Century Pentecostal and Charismatic movements.
HIS 373 – Ancient and Medieval Christian History: 3 credits
A survey of Christianity from the post-apostolic Church through 1500 A.D. Emphasis is placed on major events, individuals, and developments in historical theology. Special topics include persecution, heresies, monasticism, and the development of the institutions of the Church.
HIS 245 – History of the American Deaf Community: 3 credits
This course provides an understanding of the culture of the Deaf in American society. The traits, values, institutions and worldview of the Deaf will be discussed. For Deaf students and DCS majors who have successfully completed LNG 313 ASL IV or equivalent.
HIS 243 – U.S. History – Reconstruction to the Present: 3 credits
A survey of the major events and individuals in United States history from just after Reconstruction to the present. Critically examines various topics of interpretive interest in American history such as immigration, industrialization, urbanization, the rise of Big Business, imperialism, the New Deal, the Cold War, Vietnam, the civil rights movement, etc.
HIS 233 – U.S. History – Colonization to Reconstruction: 3 credits
A survey of the major events and individuals in United States history from Colonization to Reconstruction. Critically examines various topics of interpretive interest in American history such as the coming of the Europeans, Puritanism, religious freedom, the Revolution, slavery, immigration, industrialization, urbanization, the Civil War, and Reconstruction.
HIS 223 – Modern & Contemporary World History: 3 credits
A survey of world civilizations with special emphasis on the rise of the modernity in the West from the Enlightenment to the present, including the scientific revolution, European expansion and colonization, the rise of nation states, the Enlightenment, the American and French Revolutions, the Industrial Revolution, socialism, communism, nationalism, and liberalism, and the two world wars of the twentieth century.
HIS 213 – Ancient & Medieval World History: 3 credits
A survey of world civilizations with special emphasis on the rise of the West from antiquity to the Renaissance, including the birth of civilization in the ancient Near East, the rise and fall of Greek and Roman empires, the rise of Christendom, the Middle Ages, and Byzantium.
FYE 020 – First Year Experience: 1 credit
The First Year Experience is a one-credit course taught by members of faculty and staff, along with peer mentors. It introduces new students to the culture at UVF by providing them with information and skills in three main aspects of the campus culture: personal excellence, leadership, and community. Students gain knowledge and skills for academic success, discover their potential for leadership, and embrace and contribute to our unique identities as integral members of the UVF community. The First Year Experience course is required for full time entering freshmen who transfer in fewer than 12 credits. Dual Enrollment credits do not count toward exemption from FYE. The credit for this course is not applied toward credits needed for graduation.
FSP 473 – Family Studies Practicum Internship: 3 credits
This phase of the practicum sequence provides a supervised experience in direct service with families in the community or church. All internships must be approved and processed through the department. Students are required to complete practical fieldwork in addition to written work. A field supervisor will assess student performance during the internship. Internship hours will be served throughout the course of a semester. A comprehensive journal is required that addresses the student’s activities during the internship and issues of development in their area of ministry. Internships are designed to address the student’s focus of development and future plans.
Prerequisites: FSP 273 and FSP 373
FSP 373 – Family Studies Practicum Immersion: 3 credits
This phase of the practicum sequence moves students beyond the observation stage to a more hands on approach. Students will be required to learn from and volunteer with a family service professional. Required readings, classroom knowledge, and interaction with a supervisory professor are required. Professional identity and the foundational skills for family service will be developed.
Prerequisite: FSP 273
FSP 273 – Family Studies Practicum Observation: 2 credits
This phase of the Family Studies practicum sequence provides a supervised experience in an approved family services setting. Observation is the first of three practicums that provide the learner with a deeper understanding of the real- world application of Family Studies in the market place or non-profit arenas. Students will achieve this understanding through required readings, meetings with the supervisory professor and observations of the field supervisor in professional settings.
FNA 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Fine Arts: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
FNA 213 – Introduction to Drama: 3 credits
This course is designed to give the student an understanding and appreciation for drama through examining the nature of drama, drama history (including religious drama history) as it relates to world cultures and values, and an overview of dramatic literature-including a look at the contemporary world theater. Opportunities for practical application are made available for individual growth and encouragement of creativity.
FNA 113 – Fine Arts Appreciation: 3 credits
This course is designed to develop and expand an appreciation for music, art, and aesthetics. Introduces major movements and ideas in art, music, and architecture. Examines historical time periods and major figures including their philosophy, style, and view of aesthetics. Requires participation in cultural excursions.
FNA 112 – Music Appreciation: 3 credits
An introductory course in music featuring significant musical compositions of various styles and musical periods. Composers of note in Western music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and the 20th century will be studied as a basis for intelligent listening habits for life long appreciation. Additional study in global music will be presented for a more multicultural view of the art of music and its place in human culture. Assigned listening and concert attendance.
ENG 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in English: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
ENG 412 – Scriptwriting Seminar: 3 credits
The study of scriptwriting principles as practically applied through writing sketches, one-act and full length plays, with a brief look at alternative dramatic forms (e.g. reader’s theatre, musicals). Developing scripts through improvisations and staged readings will also help students understand the development process necessary to bring a script to life.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
ENG 333 – Writing for the Media: 3 credits
This course introduces students to fundamental principles and practices of writing for various types of mass media, including print, broadcast, public relations, advertising, and online media. Students will develop skills in information gathering, interviewing, organizing, writing, and revising media content, as well as in evaluating the quality of current media writing. Students will also learn how to critically evaluate news stories and determine the best medium for representing them. This course will help students to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective communicators in the modern media landscape.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
ENG 173 – Introduction to Linguistics: 3 credits
This course examines the six branches of linguistics and traces the historical development of language families from a Proto-Indo-European parent language. Within the Historical exploration, there is a focused examination of the development of the English language from the Anglo-Saxon period to the modern. In addition to changes in language over time, the course also studies such variations in language as registers and dialects. Particular areas of concern for the Language Arts teacher candidate, such as primary and secondary language acquisition, cognitive disability and language, physical disability and language, and neurological disability and language also come into examination.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
ENG 153 – Foundations of Rhetoric: 3 credits
Students explore such rhetorical principles as rhetorical appeals and rhetorical canons in reading, writing, and speaking as they engage in critical readings of prose from various historical periods, genres, and rhetorical contexts; in writing in a variety of modes, such as narrative, expository, and argumentative; and in oratory. Activities in reading, writing, and speaking are intended to heighten the students’ awareness of content, purpose, and audience in their own discourse.
ENG 123 – College Writing & Research: 3 credits
This course stresses the writing process and introduces the skills necessary to conduct college-level research. Emphasis is placed on argumentative and analytical writing supported by research. A passing grade of C- or higher is required. Students will receive a final grade of A, B, C, or F. Placement determined by SAT/ACT score.
ENG 013 – English as a Second Language: 3 credits
This course, designed for the non-native speaker who needs to strengthen oral skills in English, individualizes instruction to improve grammar, pronunciation, speaking, reading, writing, and listening comprehension skills. Students may be asked to repeat this course at the discretion of the instructor for one credit per semester. Placement determined by TOEFL score, English Entrance Examination, and oral skills assessment. Does not count toward general education credits needed for graduation.
ENG 011 – Introduction to College Composition: 3 credits
This course prepares the student to meet the demands of ENG 123. The course emphasizes writing effective expository prose with stress upon the writing process. Focus, content, organization, style, and conventions are practiced within the context of student writings. Placement is based on SAT and/or ACT scores. A passing grade of C- or higher is required. Students will receive a final grade of A, B, C, or F. Does not count toward General Education credits needed for graduation.
EDU 471 – Student Teaching Seminar: 1 credit
This seminar course will consist of small group interactions to review experiences during student teaching placements. The course will also support students in applying for PDE teaching certification, constructing a cover letter and resume, completing a professional portfolio, navigating websites for job search, writing and implementing a Teacher Work Sample, and reviewing standards of ethical behavior according to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
EDU 466 – Student Teaching: 12 credits
Practical teaching experience in area schools giving the student opportunities to practice many facets of education by working with small groups and in regular classroom assignments. Placements will be made for the student’s final semester. EDU 466 Student Teaching must be taken concurrently with EDU 471 Student Teaching Seminar. ALL academic work must be completed. A student teaching fee will be applied. Students in SPE dual certification program must be placed in an inclusive classroom and monitored by both the classroom teacher and a special education specialist.
Student Teaching Fee: $625
EDU 453 – Assessment & Measurement: 3 credits
This is an introductory overview of the policies and procedures used in the measurement and assessment of educational performance. This course provides the foundation of basic measurement concepts as well as hands-on experience with assessment tools. The primary focus of the course is on measurement and assessment strategies for all learners including the use of standardized, informal, and curriculum-based procedures. Attention is also given to the diagnosis and program planning of students with exceptional learning needs. The field experience portion of this course is designed to provide students with school- based experiences relevant to academic assessment methods and procedures of all learners.
Prerequisite: PSY 383
Co-requisite: EDU 383
Student Teaching Fee: $625
EDU 443 – Classroom Management: 3 credits
This course examines evidenced-based classroom management models and the way classroom environments influence learning. Course content will emphasize the “Big Five” strategies—rules, routines, praise, misbehavior, and engagement—through various assignments, including the construction of a classroom management plan and participation in a co-requisite field experience. Topics include establishing effective classroom rules and procedures, professionalism, relationships and communication with stakeholders, and helping students contribute to a positive and inclusive learning environment. Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their impact on learning will also be examined through coursework and training. Students are required to join the professional teacher organization of their choice. Fees for those organizations vary.
Note: This is a senior level practicum course designed to be taken just prior to the student teaching experience. All lower level education courses should be completed before taking this course.
Co-requisite: EDU 383
EDU 433 – Teaching Mathematics: 3 credits
This course is designed to prepare students to use a problem-solving approach to effectively teach elementary mathematics. Students will learn to plan and assess lessons that are developmentally appropriate and that address state and national content and process standards. Topics include: lesson and unit planning, appropriate use of technology, state and national standards, assessment, mathematics/literature connections, and meeting needs of diverse learners.
Prerequisites: CMS 233 and successful completion of MTH 133 and MTH 233.
Co-requisite: EDU 383
EDU 423 – Differentiated Reading Instruction: 3 credits
This course is designed to help develop an understanding of and plan instruction for those students with varying levels of ability and developmental need. A variety of assessment procedures, strategies and techniques for teaching reading, as well as remediate programs will be examined as a means to differentiate and teach reading to these different levels. Students will learn to tailor instruction and remedial minor reading problems identified through assessment. An emphasis will be placed on reading in the content areas where many of these difficulties present themselves. This course includes a related Field Experience.
Prerequisites: CMS 233 and EDU 373
Co-requisite: EDU 383
EDU 413 – Multicultural Education: 3 credits
This course explores what it means to be an effective teacher in a society that is increasingly diverse. We will focus on the skills and dispositions teachers need to provide high quality instruction for all students, regardless of their class, race, ethnicity, gender, or religion.
EDU 383 – Field Experience: 0.5 credit
The aim of the field experience program at the University of Valley Forge is to provide education students with a progression of opportunities to apply theory to practice in an authentic educational setting. During the two semesters prior to student teaching, students participate in a Stage 3 field experience in a local PK-12 classroom at a grade level appropriate to their certification. Students are concurrently registered for specific methods courses to support learning derived from field experiences. Students in SPE dual certification program must be placed in an inclusive classroom and monitored by both the classroom teacher and a special education specialist.
EDU 373 – Language and Literacy Development: 3 credits
The purpose of this course is to provide the preservice teacher with a scientifically-based foundation in the cognitive, socio-cultural, linguistic, and motivational influences on language and literacy development. This course focuses on the fundamental principles and concepts of how to explicitly teach phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. The preservice teachers will study the Science of Reading to gain an understanding of how reading develops and how effective methods and strategies are used to teach literacy skills to children.
Prerequisites: CMS 233
EDU 363 – Teaching Science: 3 credits
This course teaches students to build science instruction that is based on strategies that involve first-hand exploration and exploration and investigation, and inquiry skills. Students will learn questioning strategies for inquiry instruction and how to plan multi-disciplinary units that meet the needs of diverse learners and that address state and national standards. Practical applications of concepts will be demonstrated through STEM, biological, earth, and physical science labs.
Co-requisite field experience and a $45 lab fee are required.
Prerequisites: CMS 233, SCI 113, 143, 311 and 341.
Co-requisite: EDU 383
EDU 354 – Reading & Writing Across the Curriculum: 3 credits
This course examines research and practice in the areas of literacy, cognition and learning, the writing-thinking connection, and the use of technology in literacy learning for students in the middle through secondary level. Through this course students will apply PA Common Core standards to instruction and authentic assessment techniques in reading and writing in the English/ Language Arts and content areas for middle level through secondary grades. Students will explore methods for integrating reading, writing, speaking, and listening processes into the teaching of subject matter across the curriculum. Students will practice instruction of discrete skills in usage and mechanics as part of the Six Traits of effective writing.
Prerequisite: ENG 123
EDU 353 – Teaching Social Studies: 3 credits
This course teaches students to build science instruction that is based on strategies that involve first-hand exploration and investigation, and inquiry skills. Students will learn questioning strategies for inquiry instruction and how to plan multidisciplinary units that meet the needs of diverse learners and that address state and national standards. Practical application of concepts will be demonstrated through STEM, biological, earth, and physical science labs.
Co-requisite field experience and a $45 lab fee are required.
Prerequisite: HIS 233 or 243, POL 203 (MLE students only).
Co-requisite: EDU 383
EDU 340 – Methods of Teaching ELD: 3 credits
This course will prepare students to teach English learners in ELD classes and in mainstream content area classes in public and private schools in the United States and to teach ELD classes in a foreign country. Included are theories of second language acquisition, program models for ELs, curriculum development, and lesson planning using variety of methods to integrate the teaching of English listening, speaking, reading and writing with content area objectives. Special attention will be given to the social/emotional trauma that ELD students and families may experience as recent immigrants.
Prerequisite: CMS 233
EDU 223 – Field Experience (Stage 2): 0 credits
The aim of the field experience program at the University of Valley Forge is to provide education students with a progression of opportunities to apply theory to practice in an authentic educational setting. The purpose of the Stage 2 (sophomore) field experience is to foster observation and reflection; however, students will participate in class activities and, under the supervision of the cooperating teacher, may assist in the everyday events of the classroom. A university supervisor will periodically visit the student at the field experience site to ensure that a productive experience is taking place. Students will maintain a log that documents the hours spent at the field experience.
Prerequisite: EDU 113
EDU 163 – Principles of Adolescent Education: 3 credits
A study of the social, philosophical, and historical foundations of education with special emphasis on the application to contemporary educational settings and issues. The course requires a practicum and a practicum journal.
EDU 133 – Child & Adolescent Development: 3 credits
This course examines the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children and adolescents through consideration of the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to children and youth. Special attention will be given to leading theories of development and their implications in the K-12 classroom.
ECE 333 – Integrating the Related Arts: 3 credits
This course offers an exploration of the integration of the creative arts in an elementary school setting. Special emphasis will be given to the areas of art, music, and creative dramatics and on how to integrate skills and activities in these areas into the elementary curriculum. A hands-on, thematic approach will be explored and adaptations for teaching the exceptional child, including the gifted, will be included.
ECE 204 – Methods & Materials: 3 credits
This course focuses on developing an integrated curriculum based on the socio-emotional, sensorimotor, and cognitive skills of the 0-8 year-old child. Emphasis will be on providing an integrated, hands-on learning environment that parallels the maturation of the young child. Students will gain experience in lesson planning and practical use of curriculum materials. The courses will include classroom observations and field work.
Prerequisites: EDU 133 and ECE 123
ECE 123 – Foundations, Principles, & Practices of Early Childhood Education: 3 credits
This course examines current philosophies in the field of Early Childhood Education, the tension created by opposing philosophies, and how adherence to these philosophies is translated into educational principles and practices. The relationship between play and learning will be explored. Integration of curriculum into the learning experience in a developmentally appropriate environment will be stressed.
DIG 491 – Topics in Digital Media: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
DIG 483 – Media Production Team: 3 credits
The Media Production Team is a group of students assembled via an established selection process that work in live production in real-world environments both on and off-campus. Requires significant time for off-campus live production events. By permission of instructor.
DIG 463 – Advanced Motion Graphics: 3 credits
The Advanced Motion Graphics Course teaches students advanced techniques of motion graphics creation by building on concepts learned in the Motion Graphics and Media Deployment. This course emphasizes design from a problem-solving point of view, and continues the production timeline and graphical requirements of a multimedia project by demonstrating the manipulation of digital images in a studio environment. Students receive a thorough understanding of advanced techniques in continuing exploration of special effects, image compositing, and motion graphics.
Prerequisite: DIG 363
DIG 444 – Senior Design/Photography Portfolio: 3 credits
Students will bring together a cohesive body of work for professional presentation. Students will learn to evaluate their work with a discerning eye and create public display in a Senior Show. Students will also research and create two portfolio formats targeted to their intended job market. They will create an artist statement as well as learn to articulate and defend their work.
Prerequisite: Senior class standing and permission of instructor
Equipment Access Fee: $175 (all students)
DIG 441 – Senior Design/Photography Seminar: 3 credits
This is a project based course designed to specialize and create specific individualized projects for a student’s Senior Show and portfolio. Students will dive deep into research for their particular discipline, write a senior paper and create a senior design or photography project to reflect the nature of their research. Students will learn about series work and creating a personal style. They will also revisit the technical skills within their discipline to raise the bar on their skill level.
Prerequisite: Senior class standing and permission of instructor.
DIG 432 – Senior Video Capstone: 3 credits
An independent and in-depth exploration of advanced video production techniques, this course is designed for the student to demonstrate professional competence and creativity in video production. Students will develop a cohesive body of work while refining their technical skills. Students in the DM – Video Production major must take this course after successfully completing all required video-related coursework.
Prerequisite: DIG 407
Equipment Access Fee: $175 (all students)
DIG 431 – Directing & Producing for Live Broadcast: 3 credits
This course helps students develop skills using technical storytelling tools and personnel management techniques. Emphasis will be placed on coaching and directing teams, as well as basic systems and organizational structures. Course topics will also include time budgeting, resource management, and working under pressure.
Prerequisites: DIG 313
DIG 426 – Experimental Media: 3 credits
An advanced workshop to develop projects in experimental media, including video, audio, design , and photography. The course will explore the structures of sound, color, visual emotion, and creative editing while exploring study, design, production, and implementation. Students will seek to create works of art through the medium they choose.
Prerequisite: DIG 243, DIG 303 and MTN 263
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 413 – Non-Linear Editing Certification: 3 credits
Students will work through professional editing courseware in preparation to become a certified user. Courseware includes content from UVF’s designated learning partner. Students will have the opportunity to pass the associated certification exam. Students will demonstrate a familiarity with both basic and advanced editing terminology and program specific techniques. Students will obtain a firm grasp of the core skills, workflows, and concepts of non-linear editing.
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 412 – Corporate Branding: 3 credits
The corporate branding course teaches students how to assess the goals, initiatives, missions and values of a client and communicate the essence of their business visually through symbology, typography, color and design. In addition to creating a corporate identity, students will learn to apply this identifier to create a brand. Students will also learn about the impact of branding in which the company’s visual identity is placed in various environments in ways that communicate the characteristics of the organization.
Prerequisite: DIG 263, DIG 265 Design I and II
DIG 407 – Senior Video Seminar: 1 credits
A project based course designed to specialize and create specific individualized projects for a student’s Senior Video portfolio. Students will dive deep into pre- production for their capstone project, write a short film script and formulate a plan for filming. Students will also revisit the technical skills within video to raise the bar on their skill level.
Prerequisite: Senior class standing and permission of instructor.
DIG 385 – Video Systems and Engineering: 3 credits
An in-depth study of technical systems, formats, and troubleshooting video equipment. Students will learn how to budget, design, and implement video systems for various applications and scenarios. Students will also develop a working knowledge of vector scopes, waveform monitors, cameras, lights, file formats, format conversion devices, and editing workflows.
Prerequisites DIG 313
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 370 – Mobile Application Development: 3 credits
A course designed to explore the design, function, and deployment of mobile applications. Students will explore current apps and develop their own.
DIG 366 – Vector Art & Industry: 3 credits
The Vector Art & Industry course builds upon the concepts learned the Digital Design and Typography and Layout courses. Students will be exposed to the work of notable graphic designers and will learn the advanced techniques used in creating these pieces of visual poetry. Students will also explore what makes a logo or symbol effective and instantly recognizable. The design concepts reinforced in this course can be used across all types of media. Students will learn how to create vector-based design as opposed to raster-based, discover the advantages of vector-based design implementation, and will apply these skills and techniques in the creation of logo design for the industry.
Prerequisite: DIG 265
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 365 – Digital Publishing: 3 credits
Students will learn about the publishing industry and how to produce quality publications. Course begins with the basic elements of digital publication: color, typography, the grid, & spacing. Also, specific publication types: small publications, newspaper, magazines, books and finally ePublications. Students will learn to affectively use Adobe InDesign. Projects will mirror professional graphic design industry workflow models where students work in teams taking on an editorial position and using Adobe Acrobat in the document review cycle format.
Prerequisite: DIG 265
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 363 – Motion Graphics: 3 credits
A study of motion graphics and animation with topics that include timeline development, basic scripting, graphic communication, aesthetics, and other subjects related to motion graphic productions. The course also includes a survey of various software.
Prerequisite: DIG 265
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 362 – Creative Photography: 3 credits
This course will give students an in-depth look at the language and theories of fine art photography. As it delves deeper into visual literacy students will develop a critical eye and increase their artistic expression. Students will gain greater knowledge of in-camera techniques as well as post-production processes.
Prerequisite: DIG 243
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 352 – Drone Cinematography: 3 credits
A course that introduces the student to the new world of UAV cinematography. Topics include: piloting, regulation, licensure options, camera operations, and vehicle options.
Prerequisite DIG 303 and DIG 243
Specialized Technology Fee: $145
DIG 345 – Studio Photography: 3 credits
This course explores the creative and technical aspects of studio photography, including basic principles and application of light in the creation of photographs. Topics covered include techniques in the areas of professional portraiture, product photography, and exploration of themes bound by concept, subject, and technique.
Prerequisite: DIG 243
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 344 – Photojournalism: 3 credits
An in-depth look at the world of story-telling photography from news and conflict photography to humanitarian documentary work for non-profits. Students will learn to craft a true and balanced story for their audience no matter if it is breaking news or documenting an event. Emphasis will be in photography, however students will delve into caption writing, social media applications and adding multi-media elements for true story-telling convergence.
Prerequisite: DIG 243
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 321 – Podcasting: 1 credit
Introduction to fundamentals of podcasting audio programs, and online webcasting and streaming on-demand audio and video. Students will produce a podcast and will be responsible for all production processes.
DIG 313 – Advanced Video Production and Editing Techniques: 3 credits
This course will expand on the skills and concepts introduced in DIG 303. The students will be joined in teams to complete a variety of projects relative to course objectives. Students will demonstrate familiarity with core concepts in the areas of camera and lighting techniques, as well as proficiency in non-linear editing. Using new production techniques, students will concentrate on the creative and technical aspects of planning, shooting, and editing a video based on a personal vision. Students will produce projects in a variety of genres.
Prerequisite: DIG 303
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 310 – Media Leadership: 3 credits
This course will prepare students for leadership focusing on the unique challenges of the digital media field. Students will study key leadership theories, engage in leadership activities, as well as create processes for team building in digital media. Students will further explore how to generate and maintain creativity to accomplish specific goals and will learn to lead in the creation of media and its distribution.
DIG 307 – Film Production: 3 credit
Participants in this course will produce a short film over the entirety of the semester. Students will experience pre-production, production and post production as they would on an Independent/Hollywood style set. The skills learned in previous video courses will be applied and students will gain on-set experience. Pre-production will begin at the beginning of the semester, the production will be filmed over fall or spring break and the remainder of the semester will be post production. Students will be assigned roles based on their credit hours and experience. Students may register for this course for 1 credit for experience, or, for 3 credits as part of the main creative team. The story, creative team, and overall production will be at the discretion of the instructor.
Prerequisites: DIG 303, DIG 313 and permission of instructor.
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 306 – Film Production – Assistant: 1 credit
Participants in this course will produce a short film over the entirety of the semester. Students will experience pre-production, production and post production as they would on an Independent/Hollywood style set. The skills learned in previous video courses will be applied and students will gain on-set experience. Pre-production will begin at the beginning of the semester, the production will be filmed over fall or spring break and the remainder of the semester will be post production. Students will be assigned roles based on their credit hours and experience. Students may register for this course for 1 credit for experience, or, for 3 credits as part of the main creative team. The story, creative team and overall production will be at the discretion of the instructor.
Prerequisite: DIG 303
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 303 – Fundamentals of Video Production: 3 credits
This course will cover basic video production from concept to completion. Emphasis will be placed on fundamental technical skills as well as working knowledge of professional video editing software suites. Students will learn basic camera, capturing, edit and media creation techniques in both live and on set environments.
Prerequisite: COM 163
Equipment Access Fee: $84 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 273 – Web Design and Implementation: 3 credits
An in-depth look at current coding practices for web pages and websites using HTML5 and CSS3. Students will learn back-end structures and front-end design techniques. Topics include site structure, form elements and industry practices. Course prepares students for HTML 5 & CSS3 certification exams (third party fee required).
Prerequisites: DIG 263, DIG 272
Equipment Access Fee: $57 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 272 – Introduction to Web Design: 3 credits
An introduction to basic Web page design that focuses on freely available tools and techniques. Students learn fundamental techniques, customizing and maintaining their own Web presence. Topics include: HTML formatting, hyperlink integration, and an introduction to Web graphic design.
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 265 – Digital Design II: 3 credits
This course builds upon fundamental principles of design introduced in DIG 263 Digital Design I. Students will learn how to apply design principles to real-world problems and develop their visual literacy skills. The course will dive deeper into color theory, typography, layout, and composition, and will provide students with a fuller understanding of the principles of visual design. The course will also cover graphic design industry standards and best practices. Students will continue to learn how to use industry-standard design software and will complete a series of projects that demonstrate mastery of course material.
Prerequisite: DIG 263
Equipment Access Fee: $57 (non-majors/minors only)
Course may require purchase of Adobe Creative Cloud software.
DIG 264 – Typography & Layout: 3 credits
This course introduces students to the world of professional fonts. Students learn how to use typography as a critical part of page layout, as they continue to build upon the concept of design introduced in previous courses. This course also trains students to define how the printed or viewed page looks as an integrated graphic element.
Prerequisite: DIG 263 or digital media chair approval
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only).
The course may require purchase of Adobe Creative Cloud software.
DIG 263 – Digital Design I: 3 credits
This course is an introduction to the fundamental principles of design. The course will cover topics such as color theory, typography, layout, and composition, and will provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of visual design. Students will also learn how to use industry-standard design software and will complete a series of projects that demonstrate mastery of course material.
Prerequisite: COM 163 or Digital Media Chair Approval.
Equipment Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only).
The course may require purchase of Adobe Creative Cloud software.
DIG 252 – Sports Broadcasting II: 2 credits
This course will cover various aspects of live video production of sporting events. Topics and experiences include directing a live broadcast, studio setup, and camera operation. Emphasis will be placed on fundamental technical skills as well as a foundational understanding of audience needs during a live production. This course is open to all Digital Media Majors.
DIG 243 – Introduction to Photography: 3 credits
An introduction to the techniques, technology and applications of digital photography. Students will demonstrate proficiency in camera use and manual exposure. Students will be introduced to fine arts photography, story-telling photography, studio photography as well as post-production processing using Adobe programs.
Prerequisite: COM 163 or Digital Media Chair approval Equipment
Access Fee: $60 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 231 – Sports Broadcasting I: 1 credit
This course will cover various aspects of live video production of sporting events. Topics and experiences include directing a live broadcast, studio setup, and camera operation. Emphasis will be placed on fundamental technical skills as well as a foundational understanding of audience needs during a live production. This course is open to all Digital Media Majors.
DIG 213 – Principles of Photoshop: 3 credits
Rasterized images and graphics are prevalent throughout the media industry, learning to master content creation with these elements is essential in today’s workplace. Students will learn high-end photo editing skills. They will work with layers and blending modes to create designs for marketing material, learning how to adjust their work for multiple platform use. They will create illustrations using composite techniques adding lighting and realistic shadows and color grading. Each exercise and reading will help the student prepare for Adobe Certification.
Equipment Access Fee: $55 (non-majors/minors only)
DIG 203 – Generative AI Applications: 3 credits
Students will learn about the different types of generative AI models and how to use their outputs to create new and innovative content. Topics include prompt engineering, text generation, and multi-modal generation including image, video, music, etc. They will also explore the ethical implications of generative AI and develop frameworks ethical use.
DIG 201 – Introduction to Video Production: 1 credit
This course will cover basic video production from concept to completion. Emphasis will be placed on fundamental technical skills as well as a working knowledge of video acquisition and editing. Students will learn basic camera, capturing, editing, and media creation techniques.
DIG 102 – Digital Media Information Literacy: 0 credits
We exist in an age of exponential increase in information sources and information output. Information literacy is the ability to effectively access information for problem solving and decision-making. The university seeks to prepare students to recognize the need for adequate information and be able to locate, evaluate, and effectively use the required information. The knowledge and skills developed in the course are essential to the lifelong learner. The course takes approximately six to eight hours to complete.
Corequisite: COM 136
DIG 101 – Introduction to Ethical Generative AI: 1 credit Introduction to generative AI platforms, ethics, interactions, and functions. Students will learn the fundamentals of generative AI, its potential benefits and drawbacks, and the ethical implications it poses. Students will also explore ethical case studies and consider ethical frameworks for using generative AI responsibly.
DIG 010 – Digital Media Skills Comprehensive: 0 credits
All Students must pass the Digital Media Skills Comprehensive exam by the end of the Junior year in order to successfully complete the program. Additional information is found in the Digital Media Department Handbook.
CRL 493 – Principles of Residence Leadership: 3 credits
The course is designed to provide future Resident Assistants with a foundation and understanding of UVF’s Residence Life program and to train and equip the RAs for their leadership role the following year.
CRL 413 – Leading with Integrity and Skill: 3 credits
A seminar course that explores contemporary concepts of leadership and enduring biblical values.
CRL 233 – Evangelizing Children: 3 credits
This course is an in-depth focus on evangelism and children. Topics include: the history of child evangelism in America, traditional as well as cutting edge evangelism thrusts, age-appropriate evangelism techniques, how to lead a child to Christ, the art of the altar call, making the most of holidays, preparation of child evangelism materials, and how to organize and present evangelistic events for children. This class will require students to prepare and execute a plan for child evangelism, write, and illustrate an age-appropriate Gospel tract, and participate in several evangelistic programs in local churches. Some time outside of the class will be required as we present the Gospel to children in a variety of venues.
CRE 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Christian Education: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
CRE 422 – Leading Missions Trips, Camps and Retreats: 3 credits
Two of the most powerful tools for shaping lives are missions trips and camps/retreats. This course is an interactive study on the philosophy, objectives, and administration of these tools. Three key phases – preparation, outreach, and debriefing – will all be addressed to maximize discipleship opportunities. Training of leadership, budgeting, promotion, and organizational principles will be covered. Additional fees may be charged for using off-campus facilities.
CRE 393 – Children’s Presentations: 3 credits
An overview of drama, music, puppetry, storytelling, and media concepts in children’s ministry. Practical emphasis is placed on choosing, preparing, and presenting content and concepts to children of various ages. Includes strategies for designing, producing and overseeing children’s productions.
CRE 383 – Adult Education Ministry: 3 credits
An overview of needs, opportunities, and resources for education of adults in the church. Theories of andragogy, adult faith development, continuing education, and specialized ministry to young, middle, and older adults, as well as special-needs groups will be explored.
CRE 342 – Small Group Ministries: 3 credits
Presents methods for establishing small group ministries within the local church. This course covers the dynamics of small group interaction; developing fellowship, support and outreach groups; and skills in organization and leadership.
CRE 333 – Methods & Principles of Teaching: 3 credits
An in-depth study of the teaching-learning process with primary emphasis on creative, effective methods to develop quality teaching.
CRE 153 – Introduction to Children’s Ministries: 3 credits
A specialized study of developing and evaluating children’s ministries and resources as it pertains to specific programs such as Bible clubs, Kid’s Crusades, children’s church, music, drama, and other children’s activities.
CRE 113 – Introduction to Christian Education: 3 credits
This course offers an explanation of historical and philosophical foundations for church education. It provides an overview of the Christian education ministry to all ages in the local church, and explores such topics as materials and teaching methods, curriculum instruction and evaluation, leadership and training, the recruitment and supervision of volunteers, etc.
COM 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Communications: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
COM 483 – Digital Media Internship: 3 credits
An internship is designed to allow upper-level students to experience the professional world while they are still involved in their academic training. This provides them with both an understanding of the relationship of their academic preparation to their career aspirations and the demands that will be placed upon them in the professional world. One 3-credit internship is required between their junior and senior year. An additional 3-credit internship may be allowed with the approval of the Digital Media faculty. Qualifications: Junior or Senior standing and with department approval.
COM 454 – Crisis Communication and Media Relations: 3 credits
Analysis of corporate, institutional and governmental conflict and crises. Consideration given to nature of social conflict, negotiation, problem-solving, crisis planning, news conferences and press releases.
COM 436 – Small Group Communication: 3 credits
This course will examine the theories and practice of small group communication, with an emphasis on Biblical perspective and practical application to give students the understanding, experience, and resources necessary to effectively function in a variety of small group settings in way that faithfully represents the love of Christ through their actions and group relationships.
COM 413 – Digital Marketing & Analytics: 3 credits
Students will work on implementing digital techniques and skills including setting goals, crisis management, and customer service. Emphasis will be placed on Social Media Marketing, Search Engine Marketing, Search Engine optimization, and Analytics. Attention will be given not just to strategic planning but control content creation and the analysis of analytics for Social, SEM, SEO. Students will apply branding strategies and corporate narrative to a variety of projects.
COM 403 – Social Media Management: 3 credits
This course will introduce principles of social media management, including social media planning, content development, insights and analysis. Students will explore current platforms and tools, as well as how to craft effective social media strategies. Communication and public relations theories and techniques will be explored through case Studies and real-world application.
COM 373 – Design & Visual Language: 3 credits
This course helps students develop the intellectual skills necessary for analysis, understanding and creation of media messages in the many formats of today’s high-density visual environment. Students will be introduced to the syntax, grammar and rhetoric of visual communications. The course also surveys current trends in interactive media, marketing and advertising on the internet and various forms of e-commerce. Assignments explore information architecture and how visual design, writing style and navigation logic affect interactive marketing success.
COM 332 – Christ, Communication & The Digital Mission: 3 credits
This course will explore the creation of digital content through the lens of communication and a Christian worldview. Students will explore methods of communication like homiletics as well as art theory to better explore methods of expression. This course will ask the questions “Why should we, as Christians, create digital content?”, “What is the digital preacher?” and “How can we move forward the Great Commission of Matthew 28 through the modern paradigm of digital media?” Analyzing art, communication theory, digital media, specific texts, and the Bible, this course will seek to answer those questions.
COM 323 – Business Communication: 3 credits
This course will help students understand the skills needed for effective written and oral communication in the business environment. The course examines interpersonal and public communication skills.
Prerequisites: ENG 123, COM 123 and BUS 313
COM 303 – Interpersonal Communications: 3 credits
The study of the nature of interpersonal communication theory, processes and relationships. Examines face to face interactions using cognitive learning, skills training, and experiential techniques to better understand and interact with others. Includes practice in personal application of communications principles.
COM 301 – Freelancing & Self-Branding: 3 credits
This course covers topics in freelancing, starting a business, branding, and social media marketing. Featuring a skill-building approach to course topics, this course equips students to start and publicize their own business using available tools and techniques. Students will learn to establish their personal businesses ethically and legally. Prerequisites: 1) Jr. Standing & 2) Course must be part of major requirements.
COM 293 – Intercultural Communication: 3 credits
An introductory course in communications between those of various cultures dealing with core culture and value orientation. The silent language and problems of Americans in other cultures are brought into focus.
COM 163 – Introduction to Digital Media: 3 credits
Survey of the history, present, and future of media including television, radio, communication policy, online video, social media, and the Web. This course covers technological, social, and economic implications for users, producers, and distributors of traditional and new media.
COM 143 – Communication Theory: 3 credits
A study of the theories of human and mass-mediated communication with an emphasis on research and writing. Topics include communication system theory, signs and languages, discourse, message reception and receiving, social and cultural realities, and critical theories.
Prerequisites: ENG 123 and COM 123
COM 137 – Introduction To Music Industry: 3 credits
A survey course of the music, recording, and entertainment industries. Students study the development of these industries in the United States from an aesthetic, technical, and historical perspective. Topics include: artists, engineers, studios, live performance, songwriting and publishing, career paths, and contracts and copyrights.
COM 136 – Mass Media & Society: 3 credits
Overview of the history, organization, economics, content, control, and effects of mass communications on society. Examination of mass media industries, including print, broadcast, cable, film, telephony, and the internet. All Digital Media Majors must enroll in DIG 102 concurrently.
COM 123 – Fundamentals of Public Speaking: 3 credits
A basic course in public speaking designed to provide both theory and practice in principles of effective speech composition and communication.
CMS 493 – Topics in Computer Science: 3 credits
Special advanced topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
CMS 283 – Computer Applications for Business: 3 credits
Applications and lab exercises in the use of Microsoft Office Suites with particular emphasis on word processing, electronic spreadsheets, presentations, communication, and time management.
Prerequisite: Computer proficiency
CMS 233 – Educational Technology: 3 credits
This course provides an in-depth examination of technology used in the educational setting. Included are digital media applications, along with projected, non-projected and audio media. The integration of media into the lesson planning process is a crucial component of the course. A student portfolio is developed in association with concurrent or previous field experience.
CMS 131 – Introduction to Spreadsheets: 1 credit
A course which presents the basics of spreadsheets using the Microsoft® Excel program. Students will apply and analyze real world data as they develop various projects and assignments. Topics include functions and variables, tables, and logicals.
CHM 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Church Music: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
CHM 443 – Worship Leadership III: 1 credits
This lab-based course provides individual mentorship to Church Music and Worship Leading majors as they lead worship in a variety of settings. A continuation of CHM 442, this class is designed to cover the practical aspects of leading worship. Course should be taken during the senior year.
Prerequisite: CHM 442
CHM 442 – Worship Leadership II: 1 credits
This lab-based course provides individual mentorship to Church Music and Worship Leading majors as they lead worship in a variety of settings. A continuation of CHM 441, this class is designed to cover the practical aspects of leading worship. Course should be taken during the junior year.
Prerequisite: CHM 441
CHM 413 – Worship Arts Administration: 3 credits
A course designed to prepare the student for a music leadership role in the church. Class will cover principles of building, developing, and administering a music program.
CHM 441 Worship Leadership I 1 credits This lab-based course provides individual mentorship to Church Music and Worship Leading majors as they lead worship in a variety of settings. This class is designed to cover the practical aspects of leading worship. Course should be taken during the sophomore year.
Prerequisite: CHM 101
CHM 322 – Hymnology: 2 credits
A study of the hymnody of the Christian Church. The history of text and tune from the New Testament times to the present day will be studied. Criteria for the evaluation of hymns, ideas for their use, and theological aspects of hymnody will also be included.
CHM 101 – Introduction to Worship Leading: 3 credits
This course examines the major topics related to leading worship. Through lectures, course readings, class discussion, and class projects, students will apply the concepts to a variety of worship leading environments. Topics include: song databases, creating set lists, selection of keys, leading worship, creating flow in worship, speaking in between songs, sharing exhortations, running effective rehearsals, vocal harmony, and using technology.
BUS 491 – Special Topics: 3 credits
A course that covers topics of current interest in the field of business administration. Specific topics are identified in the course schedule.
BUS 483 – Business Administration Internship: 3 credits
This course is designed to enhance academic learning with practical, hands- on experience. Students will work side-by-side with a business organization in one or more of the following areas: Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Operations Management, Human Resource Management, or Entrepreneurship. Each credit hour equates to 75 hours of actual work experience. Work must be approved by the Department Chair.
Prerequisite: Senior standing or Business Faculty approval; BUS 481
BUS 481 – Business Administration Internship Seminar: 1 credit
This course is to prepare the student for his/her internship. Emphasis will be placed upon self understanding, conflict resolution, and the practical concerns faced by interns. Time will also be given to formalize the specifics for each internship.
BUS 463 – Production/Operations Management: 3 credits
Covers quantitative techniques used to assist managers with production and operations decisions including supply chain management, quality management, waiting line management, inventory management, and scheduling.
Prerequisites: BUS 200, BUS 313 and BUS 353
BUS 453 – Human Resource Management: 3 credits
Principles and practices in supervising employees and administering personnel programs with insight into the evolving role of strategic Human Resource Management in today’s organizations, the strategic role of human resource functions, and the impact of technology and global competition.
Prerequisites: BUS 200 and BUS 313
BUS 433 – Federal Income Tax Accounting: 3 credits
Covers current federal tax laws and accounting principles related to partnerships and corporations. Also includes study of individual federal income taxes.
Prerequisite: BUS 323
BUS 430 – Auditing: 3 credits
Examines the basic auditing standards, theories, and concepts used by independent accountants and internal auditors. Includes coverage of internal controls, statistical and non-statistical auditing tools, professional responsibilities, and ethics.
Prerequisite: BUS 323
BUS 423 – Advanced Business Research & Communication: 3 credits.
This course will help students develop an understanding of how primary and secondary research is carried out in management settings and the various methods of research. Students will gain an understanding of some of the specific problems and issues faced in businesses along with communicating research results to the business world. A focused semester research project will allow students to conduct research by exploring a specific problem or opportunity, and then communicate the results of their research.
Prerequisites: BUS 313
BUS 413 – Business Policy: 3 credits
An integration of knowledge from accounting, economics, marketing, and business management. Examines case studies in real world business situations. Analysis of decision-making strategies, business objectives, policy development, measurement of performance, and response to change.
Prerequisite: Senior Business Administration majors, completion of all required Junior-level Business courses.
BUS 403 – Business Law: 3 credits
Review of the history and philosophy of legal issues governing business law . Covers federal, state, and local laws, regulatory systems, constitutional issues, and the impact of legal structures on profit and nonprofit business practices.
Prerequisites: BUS 200 and BUS 313
BUS 383 – International Aspects of Business: 3 credits
Study of the multidisciplinary development of strategies addressing economic, legal, governmental, political, financial and cultural issues associated with the international business environment. Focus is placed on opportunities for, threats to, and options facing international, multinational, global, and transnational business enterprises. Emphasis is placed on employing the most effective business strategies based on the examination of host government, work force, consumer needs and preferences, technology, and the demands and tactics for responding to them.
Prerequisites: BUS 200 and BUS 313
BUS 373 – Nonprofit Start-Up and Fundraising: 3 credits
Introduction to the nature, role and unique challenges of nonprofit organizations . Includes techniques and projects for nonprofit start-up and fundraising . Examines the trend of faith-based nonprofits, their structures and relationships to the community and the church . Case study applications cover health care, education, charitable, community, cultural and faith-based organizations.
Prerequisites: BUS 200 and BUS 313
BUS 363 – Business as Missions: 3 credits
An emerging tool for evangelism at home and abroad is the use of individuals from the business world. Kingdom business is for-profit business ventures designed to facilitate God’s transformation of people and nations. Business as Mission examines God’s call on individuals and the roles they play within the business sector to fulfill the Great Commission.
Prerequisites: BUS 200 and BUS 313
BUS 353 – Microeconomics: 3 credits
A study of microeconomic theory and issues. Examines behaviors of individual consumers, wage and price theories, marketing of particular products, competition, market structure, and current microeconomic problems.
Prerequisite: BUS 200 and BUS 313
BUS 343 – Marketing and Public Relations: 3 credits
Marketing and public relations in profit and nonprofit organizations. Introduces basic theory, terminology, and major components of marketing and public relations. Reviews practices of current organizations.
Prerequisite: BUS 200
BUS 333 – Cost Accounting: 3 credits
Covers cost estimation and analysis of materials, labor, and manufacturing expenses. Highlights job order processing, activity-based costing, and the use of cost information in management.
Prerequisite: BUS 223
BUS 324 – Intermediate Accounting II: 3 credits
A continuation of Intermediate Accounting I. Extensively covers the preparation of financial statements using the most recent developments in the field. Includes coverage of cash and receivables, inventories, operational assets, and financial investments.
Prerequisite: BUS 323
BUS 323 – Intermediate Accounting I: 3 credits
A continuation of Accounting II . Extensively covers the preparation of financial statements using the most recent developments in the field . Includes coverage of cash and receivables, inventories, operational assets, and financial investments.
Prerequisite: BUS 223
BUS 313 – Business Management: 3 credits
A study of modern management theory . Overall focus on managerial functions such as planning, organizing, leading, controlling and decision making in both the nonprofit and profit sectors . The fundamentals of the management of organizational structure, culture, goals, motivation, teams, human resources, operations, change and the integration of technology.
Prerequisite: BUS 200
BUS 303 – Introduction to Finance: 3 credits
Introduction to the theories and practice of corporate finance. Topics include financial statements, corporate securities, net present value, investment management, capital budgeting, market efficiency, and the concept of risk and return.
Prerequisites: BUS 213, BUS 253 and MTH 123
BUS 253 – Macroeconomics: 3 credits
An overview of the organization of American economic systems. Introduces basic terminology, concepts, and issues. Examines economic variables such as consumption, government expenditures, taxes, investments, issues of unemployment, inflation, deficits, economic law, and monetary policies.
Prerequisites: MTH 123 and BUS 353
BUS 233 – Business Ethics: 3 credits
Humans are moral beings facing a variety of moral decisions on a daily basis. This course examines the subject of ethical dilemmas and decisions in the business environment from both a secular perspective and a Judeo-Christian ethics paradigm. This course will sensitize students to ethical business dilemmas and provide a technique for analyzing them. Students will try to answer the questions: can businesses compete if required to function ethically; and does this require moral prerequisites to be able to do so? Students will read essays on questions in business ethics and will also read cases that are examples of ethical dilemmas. Students will be able to compare and contrast various types of ethical standards, with an emphasis on a Christian worldview.
Prerequisite: BUS 200
BUS 223 – Accounting II: 3 credits
A continuation of Accounting I. Emphasis on managerial accounting, including financial statement presentation, theoretical and practical aspects of accounting, and development of accounting records.
Prerequisite: BUS 213
BUS 213 – Accounting I: 3 credits
The fundamentals of financial, cost, and managerial accounting. An overview of practical aspects of accounting systems, understanding financial statements, cash flow, assets, liabilities, statement analysis, variable and fixed costs, short- and long-term financing alternatives, and their impact on decision making.
Prerequisites: CMS 283 and MTH 123
BUS 200 – Explorations in Business: 3 credits
An introduction to functions of business, including business organization and accounting, management of financial resources, management of human resources, marketing of goods and services, and principles of economic decision making. Open to all students.
BIB 491, 492 and 493 – Topics in Bible: 1-3 credits
Special topics of varied interest are offered as needed and as resources permit.
BIB 463 – Biblical Archaeology: 3 credits
The study of excavations and discoveries that have a bearing on the Bible. The course is designed to acquaint the student with the nature of archaeology and its contribution to biblical Studies.
May be offered with BIB 493.
BIB 413 – Daniel-Revelation: 3 credits
An integrative and exegetical study of these two prophetic books from a pre-millennial perspective in light of other interpretive approaches. Historical background, literary genre, and theological teachings of each book will be examined.
BIB 312 – The Bible: From Inspiration to Translation: 3 credits
A study of the canon, text, ancient manuscripts, transmission and translation of the Bible. Special attention is given to the history of the English Bible and modern translation theories.
BIB 303 – Teaching the Bible Creatively: 3 credits
A course for all who desire to teach the Bible more effectively and creatively . Designed to develop basic principles and practices in the teaching of the Bible as well as studying methods, materials, learning theory, and meeting individual differences in all age groups.
BIB 213 – Hermeneutics: 3 credits
An advanced study of the history, theory, and practice of biblical interpretation. This course emphasizes knowledge, understanding, and skills for pastoral and scholarly study of the Scripture including a review of current approaches and developments.
Prerequisites: OLT 123 and NWT 113
BIB 200 – Biblical Theology: 3 credits
A study of the major biblical and theological themes of both testaments. Emphasis on discovering the flow of ideas that bind the different books of the Bible into a unified whole.
Prerequisites: OLT 123, NWT 113
BIB 103 – Introduction to Biblical Interpretation: 3 credits
A practical introduction to the study of the Bible. The course provides an overview of fundamental issues of interpretation, inspiration, manuscripts, and translation. Emphasis is on basic approaches to Bible study and appropriate use of biblical reference tools.
Only required for non-ministry majors.
BIB 101 – An Introduction to the Bible: 3 credits
A study of the historical settings, literary features, theological teachings, and general content of the Bible with special emphasis on the person and work of Jesus Christ.
MTH 203 – Introduction to Statistics: 3 credits
Statistics has become known as the mathematical tool or approach for analyzing data in order to draw reliable conclusions. This course will consider the most useful statistical methods; identify the statistical methods most widely used in education, psychology, and the social sciences; and study the mathematical formulas that are used in statistical applications.
Prerequisite: MTH 123
SOC 100 – An Introduction to Christian Spirituality: 3 credits
A practical study of Christian Spirituality with an emphasis on spiritual formation and a Christian worldview.
MUS 151 – Aural Skills II: 1 credit
A continuation of Aural Skills I. Concurrent enrollment in MUS 153
Prerequisite: MUS 141 or pass a placement exam