2021-2022 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
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Courses at Furman are typically identified by codes separated into three distinct parts. The first segment designates the academic subject of the course, the second component relates to the level of instruction, and the final element (when displayed) assists with the identification of the meeting times and location for individual course sections.
Credit bearing undergraduate courses typically are numbered between 100 and 599, graduate instruction is typically numbered between 600 and 999, while zero credit experiences frequently have numbers between 001 and 099. Undergraduates can further expect courses numbers to reflect:
| 100-299 |
introductory courses, geared to freshmen and sophomores |
| 300-499 |
advanced courses, designed for majors and other students with appropriate background and/or prerequisites |
| 500-599 |
individualized instruction, including internships, research, independent study, and music performance studies |
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Latin |
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LTN-504 Directed Independent Study
Variable credit.
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Latin American Studies |
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LAS-101 Introduction to Latin America
GER: TA (Textual Analysis) and WC (World Cultures)
Introduction to the cultures and societies of Latin America with particular emphasis on political and economic systems, literature, film, and history. Interdisciplinary study of the salient issues facing the region today, including its relationship with the United States. 4 credits.
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LAS-220 Performing Memory in Latin America
Exploration of how different genres of contemporary Latin American urban art express issues of cultural, historical, and political memory. By engaging with urban music, street art, and different types of performance, we will address notions of cultural celebration, remembrance, and conservation of collective memory within local and global Hispanic communities. Topics include state political violence, gender discrimination, imperialism, immigration, and cultural resistance. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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LAS-300 Travel Study in Latin America
In-depth examination of a particular theme or issue facing contemporary Latin America. Travel, lectures, and site visits emphasize an interdisciplinary perspective. May be repeated with change of instructor/topic/region. Part of the LAS travel study program. 4 credits.
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LAS-470 Issues in Latin America
Capstone course for the Latin American Studies concentration. Thematic focus varies depending on interest and expertise of the instructor. Past topics have included sustainable development, current politics, and the intersection of literature and history. Course is taught in English and is recommended for juniors and seniors 4 credits.
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Linguistics |
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LNG-210 General Linguistics
GER: HB (Empirical Study of Human Behavior)
Introduction to the nature, structure, and functions of human language. Topics include: design features of language; phonology, morphology, and syntax; semantics; and language variability. 4 credits.
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LNG-220 Linguistic Analysis
GER: WR (Writing-Research Intensive) and HB (Empirical Study of Human Behavior)
Prerequisite: any first year writing (FYW) seminar
Builds upon the principles presented in General Linguistics and applies them in the analysis of further topics such as writing systems, language comparison and change, language acquisition and learning, and artificial and non-human communication systems. 4 credits.
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LNG-230 Language as Cultural Phenomenon
An introduction to sociocultural or anthropological linguistics, the study of the relationship between language, culture, and society. Readings, lectures, and discussions will focus on variation at all levels of language and how this variation helps to create diversity and is itself created by a multitude of factors with possible educational, political, cultural, and social repercussions. 4 credits.
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LNG-240 The Origin of Language
Prerequisite: ENG-362 or LNG-210
Spoken language has been called the most important achievement of humanity. The origin of language may be found in the gestures of hominids millions of years ago. An investigation of how these simple gestures may have developed into the modern spoken, written, and signed languages of today. 4 credits.
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LNG-250 Second Language Learning and Acquisition
In-depth investigation of the linguistic processes and considerations involved in second and subsequent language learning and acquisition in both the classroom environment and in a natural setting. 4 credits.
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LNG-405 Introduction to Romance Linguistics
GER: HB (Empirical Study of Human Behavior)
Prerequisite: at least two courses numbered 210 or greater in French or Spanish
An introduction to descriptive, historical, and applied linguistics with reference to the romance languages, specifically French and Spanish. 4 credits.
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LNG-504 Directed Independent Study
Variable credit.
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Mathematics |
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MTH-110 Finite Mathematics
GER: MR (Mathematics & Formal Reasoning)
Topics include: set theory, combinatorics, probability, statistics, matrix algebra, linear programming, Markov chains, graph theory, and mathematics of finance. A student cannot receive credit for this course after credit has been received for MTH-260 or any mathematics course numbered greater than MTH-302. A student cannot receive credit for this course after credit has been received for MTH-260 or any mathematics course numbered 301 or greater. 4 credits.
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MTH-115 Ideas in Mathematics
GER: MR (Mathematics and Formal Reasoning)
Exploration of some of the great ideas of mathematics, with an emphasis on creative problem solving, effective thinking, and clear writing. Topics will be drawn from areas that include properties of and patterns in numbers, infinity, probability, geometry, topology, fractals, network theory, and statistics. 4 credits.
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MTH-120 Introduction to Statistics
GER: MR (Mathematics & Formal Reasoning)
A standard introduction to statistics with an emphasis on application. Topics include basic experimental design, sampling, numerical and graphical summaries, regression, probability, sampling and randomization distributions, and confidence intervals and hypothesis tests for both categorical and quantitative data. Software is incorporated. A student cannot receive credit for this course after completing MTH 341, MTH 245, or after receiving credit for ECN 120. 4 credits. 4 credits.
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MTH-145 Calculus for Management, Life and Social Sciences
GER: MR (Mathematics and Formal Reasoning)
Introduction to the methods of differential and integral calculus with an emphasis on applications in the management, life, and social sciences. Topics include limits and continuity, differentiation and integration of functions of one variable, exponential and logarithmic functions, and applications. May not be registered for credit after successful completion of MTH 150 . 4 credits.
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MTH-150 Analytic Geometry and Calculus I
GER: MR (Mathematics & Formal Reasoning)
Prerequisite: appropriate placement
First course in the standard calculus sequence. Introduction to the theory, methods, and applications of differential calculus and an introduction to the definite integral. Topics include: algebraic and trigonometric functions, limits and continuity, rules for differentiation, applications of the derivative, antiderivatives, and the definition and basic properties of the definite integral. 4 credits.
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MTH-151 Analytic Geometry and Calculus II
Prerequisite: MTH-150
The second course in the standard calculus sequence. An introduction to the logarithmic and exponential functions, the applications of the definite integral, techniques of integration, indeterminate forms, improper integrals, numerical methods, and infinite series. 4 credits.
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MTH-160 Vectors and Matrices
Prerequisite: MTH-150
Introduction to the theory of vectors and matrices. Among the topics included are: vectors, vector operations, the geometry of Euclidean space, systems of equations, matrices, matrix operations, special transformations, eigenvalues, and applications of matrix theory. 4 credits.
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MTH-242 Who’s #1? The Mathematics of Rating and Ranking
From the ranking of the web pages by Google and other search engines, to the ranking of movies and products by Netflix and Amazon, to the ranking of sports teams destined for postseason tournaments — it is clear that rankings of all types are pervasive in today’s society. Introducing students to the mathematical topics that underlie many different ranking systems. May Experience ONLY. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MTH-245 Statistics and Data Analysis in R
GER: MR (Mathematics & Formal Reasoning)
Prerequisite: BIO-222 , ECN-120 , HSC-201 , MTH-120 , PSY-202 or SOC-302
Management, manipulation, visualization, and statistical analysis of data sets using the statistical programming language R. Topics include the formatting and transformation of data sets; visualizing and describing data; implementing basic statistical tests in R; ANOVA, regression, chi-square tests, nonparametric tests; selecting models and testing assumptions. Additional topics may include the design of surveys and experiments and an introduction to Bayesian techniques. 4 credits.
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MTH-250 Vector Calculus
Prerequisite:MTH-151 and MTH-160
Introduction to multivariate and vector calculus. Topics include vector functions and the differential and integral calculus of functions of several variables including Green?s Theorem and Stokes? Theorem. 4 credits.
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MTH-255 Differential Equations
Prerequisite:MTH-151 and MTH-160
Introduction to the theory, methods, and applications of ordinary differential equations, including first- and higher-order differential equations, series solutions, systems, approximate methods, Laplace transforms, and phase plane analysis. 4 credits.
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MTH-260 Transition to Higher Mathematics
GER: WR (Writing-Research Intensive)
Prerequisite: any first year writing seminar and MTH-150
Introduction to the main ideas and proof techniques of mathematics with an emphasis on reading, writing and understanding mathematical reasoning. Among the topics covered are logic, proof techniques, sets, cardinality, combinatorial enumeration, mathematical induction, relations, functions, and others selected by the instructor. 4 credits.
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MTH-301 Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers I
Problem solving and mathematical reasoning; sets and set operations; functions; numeration systems; the systems of whole numbers, integers, and rational numbers; algorithms; mental computation; elementary number theory; teaching strategies, materials, and technologies for these topics in grades pre K-6. 4 credits.
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MTH-302 Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers II
Prerequisite: MTH-301
Decimals and percents; elementary probability; descriptive statistics; geometry of shapes in two and three dimensions; congruence and similarity; measurement; geometric transformations; teaching strategies, materials, and technologies for these topics in grades pre K-6 and field-based experiences in area schools. 4 credits.
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MTH-320 Number Theory
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-260
Introduction to the arithmetic properties of the integers including divisibility, congruences, diophantine equations, primes and their distribution, quadratic forms and quadratic reciprocity. Additional topics will be chosen from continued fractions, cryptography, partitions, elliptic curves, modular forms and number fields. 4 credits.
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MTH-325 Modern Geometry
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-260
Development of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries. Topics include axiom systems, models, congruence theorems, parallel postulates, and the philosophical and historical background to geometry. 4 credits.
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MTH-330 Combinatorics and Graph Theory
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-260
A study of the primary methods and fundamental ideas of combinatorics and graph theory. Topics covered include generating functions, set partitions, recurrence relations, inclusion-exclusion, trees, graph connectivity, independence, and graph colorings. Additional topics will be chosen from Ramsey theory, set systems, planarity, directed graphs, matchings, and Hamiltonian and Eulerian graphs. 4 credits.
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MTH-335 Mathematical Models and Applications
Prerequisite: MTH-250 and MTH-255 ; recommend taking MTH-245 or CSC-121
A selection of mathematical models using various continuous and discrete methods and having applications in business and the social and biological sciences. Included are ecological models, epidemic models, Richardson146s arms race model, and population growth models. Other topics discussed are linear programming, voting problems, and Markov chains. 4 credits.
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MTH-337 Operations Research
Prerequisite: MTH-151 and MTH-160 ; recommend taking CSC-121
Application of mathematical modeling and analytical methods to make better decisions. Topics include modeling, algorithm design, discrete linear function optimization with linear constraints, convexity, duality, sensitivity analysis, and optimality criteria. 4 credits.
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MTH-340 Probability
Prerequisite: MTH-250
Calculus-based course in probability, covering counting, discrete and continuous probability, random variables, important probability distributions, joint distributions, expectation, moment generating functions, and applications of probability. 4 credits.
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MTH-341 Mathematical Statistics
Prerequisite: MTH-340
Calculus based course in statistics covering sampling, estimation, hypothesis testing, chi-square tests, regression, correlation, analysis of variance, experimental design, and nonparametric statistics. 4 credits.
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MTH-345 Statistical Modeling in R
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-245
Statistical Modeling in R is a second course in data analysis that focuses on modeling and prediction through the use of modern statistical learning techniques in R. Topics include K-nearest neighbors, discriminant analysis, cross-validation, bootstrapping, ridge regression, LASSO, principal components analysis, regression and classification trees, bagging, random forests, boosting, support vector machines, clustering, and model building. This course aims to be more applied in nature, but each method’s theoretical justification may be explored. Applications will be taken from a number of disciplines, including biology, economics, and public heath. Additional topics may include Markov chains, simulation, neural networks, and Bayesian modeling. 4 credits
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MTH-350 Complex Variables
Prerequisite: MTH-250, MTH-160, and MTH-260
Study of the complex plane and the calculus of functions of a complex variable. Topics to be considered include the algebra and geometry of complex numbers, limits and derivatives of functions of a complex variable, the Cauchy-Riemann equations, contour integrals, Taylor and Laurent series, and residues. 4 credits.
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MTH-355 Discrete Dynamical Systems
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-260
This is an introductory course on the tools and theory of dynamical systems. Course topics will include periodic points and cycles, fixed points, Sharkovskii’s Theorem, sensitive dependence and chaos, recurrence, entropy, and symbolic dynamics. Additional topics may include dynamics in the complex plane, bifurcations, and/or fractal dimension. 4 credits
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MTH-420 Topology
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-260
Introduction to concepts in topology including the following: topological spaces, metric spaces, continuity, homeomorphisms, neighborhoods, closed sets and closure, basis and sub-basis for a topology, subspaces, product spaces, connectivity, compactness, and separation axioms. 4 credits.
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MTH-435 Scientific Computation
Prequisite: CSC-121 and MTH-250 or MTH-255
This course provides a practical introduction to computational problem solving. Topics covered include floating point arithmetic, sources of error, conditioning and numerical stability, root finding, numerical linear algebra, systems of ordinary differential equations, and scientific programming. 4 credits.
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MTH-450 Real Analysis
Prerequisite: MTH-151, MTH-160, and MTH-260
A theoretical introduction to some of the basic ideas of real analysis: real numbers and the topology of the real line, sequences and series of real numbers, limits of functions, continuity, uniform continuity, differentiation, the Riemann integral, and sequences and series of functions. 4 credits.
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MTH-451 Topics in Analysis
Prerequisite: MTH-450
An in-depth investigation of selected topics in analysis. 4 credits.
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MTH-460 Group Theory
Prerequisite: MTH-160 and MTH-260
A theoretical introduction to some of the basic ideas of modern abstract algebra. Included is a study of groups, rings, domains, polynomial rings and fields as well as an investigation of their sub-structures and of the fundamental homomorphism theorems. 4 credits.
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MTH-461 Topics in Algebra
Prerequisite: MTH-460
An in-depth investigation of selected topics in abstract algebra. 4 credits.
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MTH-465 Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory
Prerequisite: MTH-151 , MTH-160 and MTH-260
Study of finite dimensional real vector spaces, linear transformations, determinants, inner product spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. 4 credits.
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MTH-502 Research
Theoretical or applied research in mathematics with potential for publication in professional journals and/or presentation at professional meetings. Variable credit. Variable credit.
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MTH-503 Individualized Internship
In consultation with a faculty sponsor, students develop internships, identify objectives, read literature, complete writing assignments related to their internship, and submit reflective summaries of their activities. Course will not count as a major elective for mathematics, mathematics-economics, or computing and applied mathematics majors. Pass-no pass only. Variable credit.
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MTH-504 Directed Independent Study
Study of an area of mathematics of interest to the student that is not part of one of the listed courses. The student must choose a faculty member to direct the study and, together with this faculty member, prepare a description of the material to be covered and submit it to the department chair for approval. May only contribute to major requirements at discretion of the chair. Variable credit.
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May Experience |
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COM-235 Media and Culture in Ghana
Examination of historical and postcolonial aspects of West African culture and media through travel to Ghana. An overview of the Ghanaian media and culture through the exploration of topics that include: trans-Atlantic slave trade, customs, traditions, gender roles, socio-economic development and media practices through interactions with Ghanaians, in both urban and rural locations. An opportunity for students interested in African history, culture, politics, media, socio-economic development and globalization to learn about these topics through academic study and immersive personal cultural experiences. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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HUM-115 Introduction to Humanities Research
An introduction to the modes of research in the
humanities, focusing on both practical and
conceptual components. Additional topics include
ethics, data curation and preservation, and
distribution. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits. 2
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MLL-250 Translating Across Worlds
One course beyond 201 in one modern language besides English (Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish), or special permission from instructors.
An on-campus MayX course providing a first encounter with theories and practices of literary translation. Work includes theoretical readings, literary and translation workshops, writing portfolio, peer review, and a final project. MayX only. 2
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MUS-281 Music in Context
Study of composers, music, and important landmarks
in preparation for travel to specific locations.
The topics studied, sites visited, and
performances attended will vary depending upon the
destination. May Experience ONLY. 2
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MXP-110 Building a Bicycle Friendly University
Exploring what Furman is currently doing to encourage and promote cycling on campus and beyond. Examining the components that make up a “bike-friendly” campus. Evaluating Furman against the five categories upon which The National League of Bicyclists judge candidates: Engineering, Education, Encouragement, Enforcement, and Evaluation & Planning. Developing a plan to make Furman more bicycle friendly. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-111 Technology and Dystopia of Black Mirror
This course will focus on selected episodes of Black Mirror, studying the risks of technology and the philosophical questions raised by its use and misuse. Technologies and philosophies that enable or prevent Black Mirror’s dystopian future will be investigated. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-112 Data-Informed Decision Making in the COVID-19 Era
We use data analytics and general quantitative reasoning to analyze various societal decisions that have emerged during 2020 because of the spread of COVID-19. Students will work together in teams to make and present pivotal data-informed decisions. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-113 Animals, Culture, and Society
An introduction to animal studies, the interdisciplinary field that explores the significance of nonhuman animals to human culture and society. Students integrate scientific knowledge and humanistic values to analyze recent controversies arising from human-animal relationships, paying special attention to the cultural, ethical, and political frameworks that inform attitudes towards nonhuman animals and the social construction of the “other”. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-114 Autism in the Community
A community-based exploration of autism with an emphasis on the professional experiences of people who provide autism services as well as the personal experiences of families and individuals living with autism. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-115 Iconic Libraries and the History of Knowledge
By visiting libraries, archives and modern
information centers this class will consider how
scholarship, knowledge and information have been
preserved and made accessible in different times
and places. We will ask how this work of
preserving and making the valuable commodity of
knowledge accessible by libraries has influenced
education, religion, government, commerce,
science, the arts and other parts of society. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits 2
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MXP-120 Storytelling
Prerequisite: instructor permission
An analysis of oral storytelling in various genres, asking the question, “What makes a good story?” Students will have the opportunity to try their own skills as raconteurs in classroom and public venues. Practical application of storytelling in various fields will also be discussed. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-121 Digital Tools for Storytelling
A platform for students to explore visual narratives through digital software and tools. Students will capture and share aspects of their personal story while learning digital visual tools like Illustrator, Indesign, Photoshop, and Lightboard. Digital stories often are presented in compelling and emotionally engaging formats and can be interactive. Students will explore these formats such as social media, print, video, and photography used to create creative content that supports their personal narratives. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-122 True Crime Writing
Any FYW
In conjunction with the Greenville Police
Department, students will learn investigative
techniques and legal practices involved with
writing about true crime. Students will produce a
detailed crime report and a news article
consistent with good journalistic practices. May Experience ONLY. 2
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MXP-130 Virtual Identities
Students will explore what it means to construct, present and experience the self as an avatar. They will investigate decisions people make in identity creation, possible reasons behind the decisions, and the impact these choices have on an individual’s behavior and interactions in a virtual environment. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-131 A Tale of Two Communities
The border region between the US and Mexico is
consistently in the national spotlight due to
political debates about immigration policy. This
course is designed to unpack the border region
from a multidisciplinary perspective, including
law, public policy, and community health to
explore the lived experiences of those whose lives
are shaped by the border. May Experience ONLY. 2
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MXP-135 The Rise of Professional Baseball in the United States
The development and growth of professional baseball in the United States in its formative years of the nineteenth century and the first two decades of the twentieth century. The development of the game will be revealed through its mirroring of American culture in the time period including the topics of emerging national societies and associations, labor/management relations, racial and ethnic conflicts, immigration, criminal elements and antitrust issues. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-136 Tennis Evolution
Exploration of the evolution of tennis especially the changes that have occurred when tennis moved into the Open era and the changes that have occurred in conjunction with new racquet technologies, fitness regimens, and for the elite players a whole team that addresses every aspect of the player’s readiness to compete. It also explores some of the underside of modern tennis related to throwing points, games, or matches and performance drug regulations, usage, and penalties. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-140 Considering Sustainable Food Practices
Explores three popular strategies of sustainable food systems -diets based on organic, vegetarian, and/or local agriculture- and examines which aspects are truly beneficial and which lead to unexpected consequences for the individual, the environment, and society. Students will evaluate and synthesize information on food sustainability from diverse sources including readings, movies, speakers, visits to local farms and markets, and hands-on experiences. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-141 Nordic Energy and Energy Policy
Study of the types, regulation and environmental impact of energy production and use in select Nordic countries. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-143 Yoga in America
History of yoga and its proliferation into American culture. Students will read excerpts from foundational yoga texts including the Bhagavad Gita, The Upanisads, and The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and consider the recent popular text Subtle Body: The Story of Yoga in America as one explanation of how American gurus have reinvented traditional yoga to fit into the American lifestyle. Daily yoga practice, class discussions, weekly reflective writing, and a video research project will be required. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-144 Tai Chi for Performers
This course will teach the therapeutic benefits gained from the practice of Tai Chi Chuan, with a focus on the needs of performers. We will learn acondensed Tai chi form, along with warm up exercises and energy exercises (qigong). May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-145 Electronic Arts and Crafts
Exploring interactive projects that artists, designers and crafters have made using technology while designing our e-Arts&Crafts project using Arduino (an electronics prototyping platform, including microcontroller board and software development environment) and other electronic supplies, such as LEDs, various sensors, and conductive thread and paint. No computer programming experience required - Arduino is easy to use for creating interactive projects, and designed for artists, designers, and hobbyists. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-146 Remote Sensing using Arduinos
In this class we will explore electronic sensor projects while designing our own project using Arduino (an electronics prototyping platform, including microcontroller board and software development environment). No computer programming experience required - Arduino is easy to use for creating interactive projects, and is designed for inexperienced designers and hobbyists. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-150 Sociology of Harry Potter
The first segment will center on using the world of Harry Potter as a lens to illustrate and examine sociological theories, concepts, and issues, such as race, class, gender, and religion. The second segment will then investigate whether and how the Harry Potter series, as a social phenomenon, has impacted some of these issues in the real world. [Having read (a majority of) the HP book series is expected before taking this course.] May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-151 Sex Ed in the US and Sweden
Comparative exploration of sex education practices
in the United States and Sweden. Classes will be
held at Furman and in Stockholm, Sweden, through a
partnership with DIS: Study Abroad in Scandinavia. May Experience ONLY. 2
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MXP-157 Sociology of the Simpsons
This course will begin with a brief discussion of The Simpsons as a social and cultural phenomenon. The remainder of the course will focus on The Simpsons (and the social commentary embedded in it) as a tool for analyzing sociological concepts. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-160 Design for Social Change
An experiential learning course that immerses students in the revitalization of the Poinsett District, an urban corridor in Greenville, SC. Students will learn how to effectively use the human-centered design thinking proces by engaging with community partners to research, prototype and test implementable solutions for problems that are uncovered. The expectation is that the student created projects will be implemented in communities on the Poinsett Corridor and will have a lasting effect beyond the life of the course. Students will walk through the process of design thinking to create a tangible outcome. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-161 Narrative, Power, & Reckoning
Narrative shapes how we understand past and
identity, creating power and scapegoating certain
groups. Exploring apartheid-resistance sites
allows us to hear and experience stories and
commemoration that address historical harms. May Experience ONLY. 2
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MXP-170 Catapulted through Time
Prerequisite: Any first year writing seminar
Whether pulled back into the past or projected into the future, time travelers appear throughout works of fiction and popular culture. Students will investigate representations in literature, television, film, and radio broadcasts, and will experience “time travel” through weekly visits to historic house museums, area exhibitions, and local cultural organizations,culminating in the production of an innovative online exhibition that frames and interprets an array of primary sources. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-171 Narrative, Power, and Reckoning in Rwanda
Through hearing and experiencing stories, mediation, and commemoration that address historical harms such as war, violence and genocide, this course will explore places of recent conflict in Rwanda in order to understand how narrative shapes how we understand past and identity, creating power and scapegoating certain groups. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-175 Why We Swim
Prerequisite: Any first year writing seminar
Exploring swimming as a cultural practice, reading literature, analyzing art, and discussing its history, including racial segregation in the U.S. Students will swim frequently in pools and open water and make connections between their swimming and the readings and site visits. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-180 Emergency Medicine as Society
Critical evaluation of the patients, staff, and
care provided in the Emergency Department, in
order to gain insight into the current state of
our society and identify areas for positive
engagement. Topics will include the intersection
of public health and individual needs of patients,
social determinants of health, the impact of
health (and non-health) policy, and the role of
implicit bias. Learning will be facilitated
through multiple highly interactive approaches to
provide a dynamic environment. Students will also
have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience
through time spent in the simulation center and
shadowing in the Emergency Department. May
Experience ONLY. 2 credits. 2
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MXP-182 Change Genres: Self-Help as Cultural Production
According to Market Research the self-help industry was worth $9.9 billion in 2016 and is set to reach $13.2 billion in 2022. This growth was especially marked in 2020, when millions were living in lockdown conditions due to the pandemic, and the self-directed, transformative appeal of the self-help book (arguably, the industry’s cornerstone) was heightened. Despite its popularity, criticisms of the self-help genre abound. However, when we focus on the primary aim of self-help–to change for the better–we can expand its definition and reclaim its utility both individually, in small group settings, and as a form of cultural production. In this course, students will investigate “change genres”, specifically self-help, memoir, and advocacy narratives, as sites of inspiration and self-guided transformation. We will unpack formulas for a myriad of self-help sub-genres (learning, leadership, fitness), memoir (recovery, life-crafting), and advocacy (anti-racism, end-of-life); consider ways the genre may at once support change and encode bias; interrogate the cultural “work” of change genres; investigate the role of reflection in self-help and coaching; adapt a change narrative for new audiences; and create change tools for personal or small group use. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-202 Science and Culture of Happiness
An examination of happiness from the lens of the social sciences. The emphasis will be on both social policies and individual practices associated with well-being. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-203 Writing the Short Film Screenplay
Students will learn the art and craft of writing the short screenplay, the story “blueprint” from which a short film is made. Students will develop scenes, sequences, and their own short film screenplay by the end of the course. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-204 Interpersonal Skills for Leadership
Investigation and practice of essential skills for leadership including personal understanding, influence, empathy and diversity, conflict resolution, team-building, and visioning/storytelling. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-205 Math and the Mouse: Mathematics and Science of Walt Disney World
Prerequisite: MTH-145 or MTH-150
Exploring the mathematics and science behind Walt Disney World (WDW). Students will immerse themselves in different aspects of the operations of WDW to explore various real-world applications of mathematical sciences. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-208 Computers in Science Fiction
This course will examine how computers have been portrayed in science fiction, and the issues raised when people contemplate the future direction of technology. For example, can a robot be human? Do computers lead to wars or other disasters? We will evaluate the accuracy and plausibility of the technology as well as the messages conveyed by the authors. May Experience ONLY. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-209 Breaking Codes and Winning Wars
Prerequisite: Completion of any course carrying MR credit
Examination of how cryptology (the science of making and breaking codes and ciphers) played a pivotal role during the world wars. Emphasis on analyzing the German Enigma machine used by the
Nazis during World War II and learning the mathematics used to defeat this machine. Investigation of how cryptologists worked during these wars and how their efforts affected political and military decisions. Planned trips to museums and historical locations in Washington D.C. and London, England, including Bletchley Park, where the allied codebreakers worked during World War II. May Experience ONLY. 2
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MXP-212 Soccer and Society
Examination of a number of contemporary social, political and economic issues through the lens of soccer. Major topics of discussion will include nationalism and sectarian violence, the impact of globalization on local societies, the success or failure of assimilation, patterns of global labor migration, and issues related to gender and sport. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-215 History and Botany of the Carolinas
An analysis of the work of the earliest European scientists to explore the Carolinas in the early 18th Century. It will be an engaged learning experience in history,botany, and image-based, computer assisted collaborative scholarship. May Experience ONLY. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-216 Medical Mysteries and Histories
An investigation of various episodes related to illness, health, and medicine from Antiquity through current research and innovations. Examination of the changing relationships between medical theories and practice and address the roles of practitioners, patients, and institutions. Consideration of the experiences of health, illness, prevention, and treatment, while exploring the various social, cultural, political, and economic dimensions of these issues. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-217 War and Remembrance
Examination of the social construction of war-related memory in a specific geographical and historical context through an examination of related monuments, memorials and/or museums. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-220 Public Intellectual 3.0: Real World, Virtual World, Virtual World Myth
Academics as public intellectuals have faced historical challenges to commitments to creating a public presence. The New Media (blogs, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook) now add additional challenges as well as opportunities for the Public Intellectual 3.0. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-223 Slow Food, Italian Style
Study of contemporary food production and consumption, as well as principles of the Slow Food Movement in Italy. The trip includes a stay on an organic farm in Italy to observe and participate in traditional food production and preparation as well as travel to three different regions of Italy for comparisons of foods, traditions, and varying terroir. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-225 English Explorations: the New Woman Imperiled
Prerequisite: successful completion of a First Year Writing Seminar
At the fin de sile, “The New Woman” became both a flash point for British fears of social change and an emblem of hope for the coming century. Exploring these cultural shifts through materialist analysis of three works of fiction (The Romance of a Shop, Tess of the d’Urbervilles, and Dracula). May Experience ONLY. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-230 United States and Cuba: History and Politics
Examination of relations between Cuba and the United States. History of the relationship, especially War of 1898 and Castro era, will be used as a lens to analyze contemporary affairs, including diplomacy, trade, and tourism. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-240 Travel Writing
Introduce students to effective and engaged traveling through the experience of reading, writing, and thinking about what it means to travel. Study travel writings, such as essays, blogs, cultural guides and criticism, and journals by ancient, modern, and contemporary writers. Different iterations of the course will allow students to travel to various international locations and study how travel writing shapes political, social, and cultural perceptions of people and places. May be repeated for credit with change of topic and/or instructor. May Experience only. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-245 Introduction to Design Thinking
Design thinking is a methodology that can be applied to any field or discipline, to create sustainable solutions to existing problems. In this course students will be exposed to the core steps of the design process. They will learn how to identify problems, find inspiration around potential solutions, ideate and build prototypes, and implement those new ideas. May experience 2 credits
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MXP-250 Introduction to Research Methods in Biology and Chemistry
Prerequisite: Instructor permission
An introduction to the fundamental protocols of modern laboratory and field research. Topics include safety, ethics, data preservation, and instruction on project specific techniques. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits
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MXP-251 Applied Sports Analytics
Prerequisite: any MR (Mathematics and Formal Reasoning) requirement and instructor permission
An examination that will focus on developing and evaluating statistical tools for analyzing various aspects of sports. Will investigate the increasing use of and concurrent resistance to analytics in sports. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-253 Discovering Greatness: On Being and Becoming Extra
Explore the limits of human potential by investigating what makes people great. The course will focus first on studying the characteristics and traits of greatness by studying notable historical and cultural leaders in a variety of
domains. Next, it will seek to understand how we can apply those lessons to our lives to become extraordinary. Students will have the freedom to direct their pursuits towards greatness in several different domains including academic, leadership, business, athletic, and health. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-255 Spatial Problems: Applications of GIS
Investigation and practice of essential skills for spatial analysis of social-ecological challenges including collection, visualization, and management of data, community engagement, and interdisciplinary thinking. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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MXP-260 Botswana Paradox
Examination of cultural factors affecting HIV/AIDS and a variety of programs in Botswana designed to prevent its spread and provide treatment. Exploration into the possible reasons for the paradox, where the government is actively involved in abating the virus, but the rate of infection is still one of the highest in the world, will include visits to several agencies and organizations working to ameliorate the crisis. May Experience ONLY. 2 credits.
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