Plymouth State University
Skip Navigation
Course Descriptions

Administration

AD 5010 Organizational Leadership in Schools - 3 credits
Students in the Educational Leadership program are strongly encouraged to take this course first in the Educational Leadership course sequence. Roles and functions of administrators in elementary and secondary schools will be addressed. A variety of theories will be analyzed and applied in the context of the dynamic milieu, personal and group biases, and the multivariate issues facing organizational life in schools.

AD 5020 Staff Development and Evaluation - 3 credits
Major functions concerning the supervision of staff in a school setting including the selection, orientation and development of staff members will be covered. Theories and techniques for promoting a positive school climate will be explored and applied. Alternative approaches to assessing and enhancing a staff's instructional competence will be examined. Prerequisite: AD 5010.

AD 5300 School Finance and Negotiation - 3 credits
The development of school budgets that support the planning processes within a school setting will be covered. Other relevant topics will include cost effectiveness, revenue sources, communication with the public, capital projects, state and federal programs, using the budget to promote excellence in the schools, and principles and practices in collective bargaining. Prerequisite: AD 5010.

AD 5330 Leadership in Curriculum Development and Assessment - 3 credits
Leading the participatory process for developing curricula in schools will be addressed. The relationship of philosophy, a school's identity and mission to curricula is emphasized. Included are strategies for developing, assessing and revising curricula as well as a review of recent research and trends. The course is intended for experienced educators who currently fill or aspire to the roles of school principal, team leader or department chair. Prerequisite: AD 5010; to be taken concurrently with or after ED 5060.

AD 5520 Negotiating, Collaborating and Leading in Today's World - 3 credits
This course examines the dynamics, constraints and skills needed in negotiation, collaboration and leadership. It focuses equally on using negotiation in business planning and in dispute resolution. Theories of negotiation are examined through current literature and specific techniques are taught through simulated exercises. The course is drawn from the fields of business, law, psychology, administration and communication. Also offered as BU 5520.

AD 5560 Special Topics in Educational Leadership - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern will be the focus of this course. It will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

AD 5700 School Law - 3 credits
Federal and state laws that apply to school systems, educational programs and personnel will be discussed. Also covered will be the legal prerogatives available to the administrator and local boards of education. Consideration of constitutional, statutory and case-law foundations of education systems, and the school administrator's role will be discussed. Prerequisite: AD 5010.

AD 5800 Practicum in Educational Leadership: The Principalship - 3 credits
This course will provide a practical encounter with the administrative practices, strategies, and policies presently used in the public schools. Practicum visitations required as part of the course will be especially designed to match the experience, occupational aspirations, and interests of the student. Conference with the instructor and meetings with fellow students will provide for exchange of ideas and reports of observations. AD 5010 and AD 5020 recommended but not required. It is recommended that this course be taken near the end of the candidate's program.

AD 5830 Educational Planning and Problem Solving - 3 credits
An overview of sound planning and evaluation models as applied to specific educational problems. Discussion will include collaborative strategies to implement effective change within the school setting. This course should be taken as the final course in either the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership or the Professional Certification Program for the School Principal K-12.

AD 5910 Independent Study in Educational Leadership - 1-3 credits
This course provides the enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. This offers a chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, the department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Educational Leadership

EP 7020 Collaborative Leadership - 3 credits
In this course, students will explore major concepts related to developing partnerships and communities of learners. Course topics include the change process, forms of school and community governance, school culture, the concept of collaboration and agencies and organizations involved in community programs and initiatives. Special attention is focused on planning and implementing system-wide and building-level networks. Students will develop and evaluate a framework for collaboration and demonstrate systems thinking.

EP 7030 Transforming the Educational Agenda - 3 credits
This course focuses on the development of a self-renewing capability inherent in professionals and organizations. Students will discuss the notion of transformation in the context of knowledge base, self-reflection and the socio-professional processes in educational change. Students will explore the integration of “ecological perspectives” within a changing society and the demand for greater tolerance of human behavior in the context of learning. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the need to keep student learning and development as the central core of educational change.
Prerequisites: EP 7020 and EP 7040

EP 7040 Planning in Education and Human Services - 3 credits
The purpose of this course is to develop effective collaborative planners. This course presents the major stages in the process of developing a strategic plan, including forming a mission statement, crafting and implementing the plan, and evaluating plan performance. It provides a theoretical and practical overview of the skills, strategies, and resources required through each stage of the systemic planning process.

EP 7050 Qualitative Methodology and Applied Research - 3 credits
This course addresses qualitative research methodologies with a particular emphasis on constructing grounded theory. Candidates will engage in the process, design and critique of qualitative inquiry and research. Organizational and community issues will be explored and discovered through the analysis of patterns of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors within interpersonal and intercultural contexts. Descriptive analysis of initiating the inquiry, gathering and picturing the data, recording and analyzing data and evaluating the study.
(Prerequisite: EP 7020, EP 7030, and a course in research design)

EP 7060 Legal Issues in Policy Making - 3 credits
This course presents a discussion of ways institutions and their communities must deal with the legal and political environment in which they exist. Topics include current legal issues and how the stakeholders in society can use the law as a tool for Social change Institutions must advocate for positive change through the development of thoughtful legal policies and practices.

EP 7070 Contemporary Social Trends - 3 credits
Contemporary social, economical, political, and educational issues are the core of the course. They are identified in a forum that provides opportunities for the students to research current methodology together to address problems that relate to the specific roles of the course participants in their work inside or outside of the educational field. Working collaboratively, course candidates explore short-range and long range problem-solving strategies directed toward increasing their awareness of community perception and expectations, techniques for facilitating institutional change, and responding to the nature and culture of internal and external political systems and environments as they apply to their work sites.

EP 7090 Critical Perspectives for Arts Advocacy - 3 credits
To be an advocate of the arts must mean in some degree to have given thought to the very nature of the arts and their function in human development and culture. This course attempts through reading, discussion, writing and forms of "doing art" to broadly circumscribe the nature of the arts and their function within the human experience. The readings will help facilitate seminar discussions designed to explore a variety of views about how the arts, once identified and defined within human experience and culture, contribute to human flourishing by opening up a more encompassing range of choices and possibilities. To be an advocate for the arts in this sense is to realize the intimate connections that the arts evoke, as well as to encourage the expansion of social vision through public forms of conduct and communication.

EP 7100 School Labor Relations, Negotiations and Personnel Management - 2 credits
Focus on policies and procedures affecting personnel management in the schools. Discussion of staffing, program and personnel evaluations, office procedures and record keeping, decision making and negotiations. Emphasis on collective bargaining statutes, case law, grievance processing, mediation, employee relations boards, union security provisions, scope of bargaining and the administration of the negotiated contract.

EP 7110 Arts and Learning - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide candidates with the arts leadership skills necessary for designing, implementing, assessing and sustaining arts integration models in diverse school settings. The course will focus on the multiple roles of the arts as mediation tools offering languages for learning and methods for instructions. This course will provide candidates with theoretical and applied knowledge of comprehensive interdisciplinary multi-arts integration supporting learning in, with and through the arts. Candidates will be introduced to the research based Integrated Instructional Model, which incorporates the components of Community, Problem Based Learning and Arts Integration. Candidates will explore the use of the arts and artistic methods through hands-on activities modeling arts-infused learning and instruction. Candidates will apply individual and group understandings to considerations of site-specific school change and sustained systemic professional development.

EP 7120 Appreciative Inquiry - 3 credits
Learn to leverage change initiatives and improvement processes by discovering the positive core of an organization, team or process. Beginning from a positive vantage point will: empower an organization, encourage motivation and positive action, while increasing commitment and creating sustainable success. This method has been used by the Dalai Lama, the U.N., the Department of the Navy, and a variety of major corporations, hospitals, and educational institutions Appreciative Inquiry was originally conceived as a method for large-scale organizational development change initiative; it is now used in the following ways: as a method to improve relationships and team performance, as a program assessment tool, as a research method, and for building communities. This will be a hands-on learning experience. During the course we will cover some foundational theory and conduct an Appreciative Inquiry. This class will provide skills and knowledge that can be directly applied professionally or personally.

EP 7130 Shaping Policies and Practice s in Arts Education - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide candidates with the arts leadership skills necessary to effect and sustain changes in current educational settings toward a greater emphasis on improving the quality of arts education. Candidates will explore major concepts related to shaping policies and practices in arts education, while examining current educational systems with an eye toward systemic change. Connections will be made to the importance of sustaining and developing curriculum, sustaining arts advocacy projects and programs and transforming educational systems to embrace learning with, about, in and through the arts.

EP 7200 School Buildings and Transportation - 3 credits
The role of the school administrator in planning school construction projects, maintaining school facilities and overseeing the transportation of students is the focus of the course. Also emphasizes the relationship of facilities and transportation to the program needs of the students while complying with state and federal regulations.

EP 7300 The Superintendency and School District Leadership - 3 credits
In-depth studies of essential knowledge bases and best practice skills required to effectively execute the responsibilities of the district level administration, including the roles of the public school superintendent and assistant superintendent. Attention will be given to balancing three sometimes conflicting roles: instructional, managerial, and political, in an era of standards-based accountability.
Prerequisites: 6 credits of the CAGS core courses.

EP 7560 Special Topics in Educational Leadership - 1-4 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist in the field or guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with the permission of the instructor.

EP 7800 Practicum in Educational Leadership: The Superintendency - 3-6 credits
A collaborative supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience as an administrator through applying knowledge learned in coursework to on-the-job situations. It is recommended that this course be taken near the end of the candidate's program.

EP 7810 Leadership and Learning Practicum - 3-6 credits
A collaborative supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience (leadership in the arts) through applying knowledge learned in coursework to on-the-job situations.

EP 7820 Externship - 1-6 credits
This externship is designed to provide opportunities for advanced level graduate candidates to study/research topics of interest at locations outside the University, often abroad. These externship placements provide candidates with an opportunity to gain new perspectives, sample different career paths and network with leaders in education and related fields. Candidates are required to spend a minimum of 40 hours per credit hours in the externship placement and develop and present their research project.

EP 7910 Independent Study - 1-4 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in a particular field of study through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities through research. Consent of the faculty supervisor, department chair and Associate Vice President is required.

EP 8000 Emerging Perspectives on Learning and Development - 3 credits
Leaders play an important role in constructing, guiding, and improving learning in organizations. This course explores research-based discoveries and insights about the brain, learning, and development from multiple disciplines. Topics will include current developmental concepts as they are connected to understanding people, organizations, and policy settings.

EP 8010 Quantitative Methods for Program Assessment and Evaluation - 3 credits
This course engages students in understanding and using statistical concepts and procedures relevant for data collection and reporting. The application of quantitative methodology to program assessment and evaluation is emphasized. The theory and practice of program assessment and evaluation, including the effective communication of results, are investigated. Students discuss how to use data to inform decisions and to plan and assess programs. (Prerequisites: a research design course and a qualitative research course)

EP 8020 Ethical Leadership and Advocacy - 3 credits
Whether it be personnel issues, the distribution of resources or the dissemination of information, leaders are expected to exhibit and promote ethical behavior. This course focuses on ethical leadership and advocacy with an approach grounded in professional standards. Students will study and respond to cases in which ethical behavior may be challenged as they work to apply the ethical responsibilities of leaders. Topics address central issues of moral philosophy and identification and understanding of moral challenges from a leadership perspective. In addition, students will demonstrate their abilities to advocate effectively at the local, regional, and public policy levels.

EP 8030 Leadership in a Diverse World - 3 credits
Leaders often find themselves making decisions, facilitating programs, and mediating conflicts that emanate from the many ways in which humans differ, including ethnicity, race, religion, sexual orientation, and cultural beliefs. In this course, attention will be given to central topics and critical issues that address global leadership competencies in working with diverse populations. Students will critically examine the complexity of culture, the building of community, and the promotion of social justice from individual, community, and global perspectives. Furthermore, students will consider and evaluate both reactive and proactive roles for leaders in educational, social, and political settings.

EP 8040 Resource Planning and Stewardship - 3 credits
Leaders are expected to develop policies and implement practices that maximize the financial, environmental, material, technological, and human resources of their organization. Through the investigation of case studies, site visitations, and research, students will explore exemplary practices and potential approaches for the best use of an organization's resources. Topics will include: budgetary practices with high accountability factors, energy programs, recycling resources, employing technology while containing costs, and innovative personnel practices.

EP 8050 Vision: Synergy and Synthesis - 3 credits
Leaders are expected to facilitate the creation of a vision that drives their organization forward. Through readings, responses to interactive lectures, and participation in experiential exercises and group discussions, students will explore opportunities for restructuring organizations to create dynamic workplaces and synergistic organizations. Students will also examine present and emerging paradigms in the areas of behavioral science, psychology, and neuroscience so they may ascertain the impact of these belief systems on individuals and organizations. (Prerequisite: EP 8000)

EP 8060 Doctoral Seminar: Writing the Proposal - 3 credits
In this course, candidates are expected to craft a high quality comprehensive and compelling research proposal that is tailored to their interests and discipline. The seminar topics focus on helping students design a research study and write a dissertation proposal. (Prerequisites: Doctoral candidacy and completion of all coursework for doctoral degree)

EP 8070 Dissertation Block I (Review of Literature) - 3 credits

EP 8080 Dissertation Block II (Methodology and Proposal Defense) - 3 credits

EP 8090 Dissertation Block III (Data Gathering and Analysis, Conclusions, and Dissertation Defense) - 3 credits

EP 8820 Externship - 3-6 credits
The externship represents an important stage in the preparation of doctoral candidates. The externship provides an opportunity to explore and research topics of interest related to the dissertation at domestic and international locations outside the University. Externship placements allow candidates to gain new perspectives, sample different career paths, gather practical experience related to the dissertation and network with leaders in education and related fields. Candidates work with their instructor to establish the focus and site of the externship placement. Candidates develop and present their research project at the conclusion of the externship to faculty and peers. Students should be aware that a background check might be a requirement of certain externship sites.

to top of page

Art Education

AE 5020 Contemporary Challenges in Arts Education - 1-3 credits
This course provides the opportunity for immersion in a specialized topic/area of study concerning selected arts form(s), arts history, multicultural arts traditions, special education and the arts, the arts and technology, and/or arts education. Guest artists, educators and professionals working in the field of the arts will be invited as guest instructors to share their experiences and expertise, as well as faculty members at Plymouth.

AE 5050 Elementary Methods and Materials in Art Education - 3 credits
This course will provide the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the correlative roles of children's holistic learning, artistic growth and development, which will provide the foundation for the study and application of constructivist and learner-centered approaches to instructional planning and dialogic pedagogy applied to art education. Study will encompass content of undergraduate courses AE 2000 and AE 3050, and extend to an applied research project and expanded theoretical reading in Art Education. Readings, research, discussion, studio production and classroom observations will provide the framework for the study of art education as a discipline incorporating studio production, aesthetics, art history and criticism. Art materials health and safety regulations will be examined. A 20-hour school observation component is required.

AE 5060 Pedagogy and Planning in Secondary Level Art Education - 3 credits
This course provides extended study of holistic methodology and inquiry based on learning for art education and diverse student populations, with an emphasis on adolescent development and instructional planning at the middle and high school levels. Components include community and citizenship, multicultural education, diversity issues and inclusion. Standards-based unit planning at the secondary level will address interdisciplinary and multicultural social themes. A 20-hour school observation and teaching component is required. Study will encompass content of undergraduate course AE 3060 and extend to an applied research project and expanded theoretical readings in art education.

AE 5410 Art Education Internship - 1-9 credits
The culminating public school field-based teaching experience for MAT Art Education majors that fulfills the student teaching requirements for New Hampshire K-12 teacher certification in art education. The internship is a continuous, full-time (five days per week) experience at both elementary and secondary levels during which, after a period of structured observation, students gradually assume responsibility for a full range of visual art teaching activities encountered in a school situation, thereby demonstrating the appropriate professional skills and attitudes essential for successful teaching of diverse populations of students. The internship is conducted under the supervisory guidance of certified K-12 school art faculty and PSU Art Education Clinical Faculty. Required seminars complement the experience. Falls and Springs. Prerequisite: Completion of all course requirements for the MAT in Art Education. All the policies related to the undergraduate and graduate field experience apply to this course.

AE 5560 Special Topics in Art Education - 1-3 credits
This course provides a specialized offering by a specialist in a specific art education field. Students will participate in an intensive hands-on education experience. A departmental faculty supervisor and technician will be assisting the specialist in guiding the students in a focused environment. Students may repeat this course when offered under a different topic title. Summers.

AE 5700 Curriculum Development and Assessment in the Arts - 3 credits
Curriculum design, implementation and assessment for curriculum developers, supervisors, educators and students in the arts will be addressed. The course provides an introduction to the goals, history, content, theory and practice of arts curriculum in public education as an independent discipline and an integrated component of a child's education. Emphasis is placed on state and national standards in the arts and reflects state mandates on arts assessment in K-12 public education. Participants will develop a working knowledge of the field through the development of balanced, discipline-based curriculum and assessment models for the arts which may be adapted to specific school sites. Summers.

to top of page

Art

AR 5200 Survey of Arts Projects, Programs and Technology - 3 credits
An overview of art projects, programs and technologies, this survey course acquaints the student with a wide variety of integrated arts experiences that have been successfully implemented into a wide range of educational, cultural and recreational settings. Commonalties between projects and programs will be examined, as will the qualities that make them unique. The latest in art technologies will also be surveyed in order to expose students to new possibilities in arts integration through technology.

AR 5300 The Arts in Society - 3 credits
An exploration of the relationship of the creative artist and the arts (visual arts, theatre, music) to society is addressed. The changing role of the arts will be considered within the context of the socioeconomic, historical, political and cultural forces that shape them. Particular attention will be given to the societal values that mold and are expressed by the arts in a range of cultures, both East and West. The role of the artist as a force in cultural change also will be studied. Summers.

AR 5560 Special Topics in Art - 3 credits
This course provides a specialized offering by an off-campus specialist in a specific studio method. Students will participate in an intensive hands-on studio experience running for six days and five evenings. A departmental faculty supervisor and technician will be assisting the specialist in guiding the students in a focused environment. Students may repeat this course when offered under a different topic title. Summers.

AR 5910 Independent Study in Art - 1-3 credits
Advanced work in a limited area of studio art, art history or art education, selected and carried on in consultation with an Art faculty advisor. Consent of a faculty supervisor, the department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

EP 7090 Critical Perspectives for Arts Advocacy - 3 credits
To be an advocate of the arts must mean in some degree to have given thought to the very nature of the arts and their function in human development and culture. This course attempts through reading, discussion, writing and forms of "doing art" to broadly circumscribe the nature of the arts and their function within the human experience. The readings will help facilitate seminar discussions designed to explore a variety of views about how the arts, once identified and defined within human experience and culture, contribute to human flourishing by opening up a more encompassing range of choices and possibilities. To be an advocate for the arts in this sense is to realize the intimate connections that the arts evoke, as well as to encourage the expansion of social vision through public forms of conduct and communication.

to top of page

Integrated Arts

IN 5100 Educational Theatre: Process to Performance - 3 credits
Students will gain experience in the process of creating and presenting a community-based educational theatre piece for family audiences. Each practicum is individually tailored to meet student needs and expectations. Students will have an opportunity to work with a variety of theatre practitioners invested in the educational theatre process.

IN 5200 Multidisciplinary Art Experiences For Children - 3 credits
Students will gain knowledge and experience developing quality arts experiences for children through participation in a major integrated arts project based either at the University or in the community. Following this experience, students will have the opportunity to develop an integrated arts project within their own classrooms or organizations using visual arts, music, movement and drama to bring the curriculum to life. Class dates/times will be individualized for each student in order to ensure maximum participation.

IN 5210 Graduate Practicum in Integrated Arts - 3 credits
A supervised practicum experience in a candidate's school, employment setting or at one of several cooperating institution or arts organizations in New Hampshire where additional experience in integrated arts can be gained and practiced. Commitment includes a negotiated number of hours per week and a series of journals, a portfolio and meetings with the faculty supervisor.

IN 5300 International Arts and Culture - 3 credits
The Institute is an opportunity for students to explore a given culture through travel and participation in a specified integrated arts project. Institutes vary year to year in the country visited and the specific project undertaken. Past projects have involved performing at an arts festival in Wakefield, England, participating in a collaborative theatre project with Lithuanian and American youth, and performing throughout South Africa with a project based on writings from all over the world on peace and justice. Following the Institute, students will use the knowledge gained to design an integrated arts project for their classroom or organization.

IN 5560 Special Topics in Integrated Arts - 1-4 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. Taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor. Fall, spring and summer.

IN 5970 Integrating the Arts - 3 credits
Practicum-based course introduces students to the value and practical application of incorporating the arts into educational, cultural, recreational and human service settings. In addition to classroom lecture and discussion, a series of workshops with professional artists and teachers will allow students to observe a variety of teaching methods and philosophies. Basic skills and materials will be developed and discussed in creative drama, puppetry, music, theatre, poetry, art and movement. Winterim and summer.

to top of page

Athletic Training

AT 5000 Psychomotor Skills in Athletic Training - 3 credits
This course will examine the psychomotor skills that the entry-level Athletic Trainer must possess to effectively prevent and treat the injuries of athletes and others involved in physical activity.

AT 5010 Orthopedic Assessment I - 4 credits
A systematic approach to orthopedic assessment will be examined. Each body section will be studied individually, stressing the anatomy, myology, neurology, physiology, etiology, pathology and assessment techniques. This course will cover the lower extremity, trunk, abdomen and lumbar spine. Assessment techniques will be presented and discussed in a didactic manner as well as applied through lab experiences.

AT 5020 Orthopedic Assessment II - 4 credits
A systematic approach to orthopedic assessment will be examined. Each body section will be studied individually, stressing the anatomy, myology, neurology, physiology, etiology, pathology and assessment techniques. This course will cover the upper extremity, cervical spine, head and face. Assessment techniques will be presented and discussed in a didactic manner as well as applied through lab experiences.

AT 5100 Athletic Training Administration - 3 credits
This course will examine the knowledge, skills and values that the entry-level athletic trainer must possess to develop, administer and manage a healthcare facility and associated venues that provide healthcare to athletes and others involved in physical activity. Additionally, this course will provide the knowledge, skills and values that an entry-level athletic trainer must possess to understand professional responsibilities, avenues of professional development, and national and state regulatory agencies and standards in order to promote athletic training as a professional discipline and to educate athletes, students of athletic training, the general public, the physically active and associated individuals.

AT 5200 Pharmacology in Sports Medicine - 2 credits
This course will examine knowledge, skills and values required of the entry-level athletic trainer on pharmacological applications including awareness of the indications, contraindications, precautions and interactions of medications, and governing regulations relevant to the treatment of injuries to and illnesses of athletes and others involved in physical activity.

AT 5250 Therapeutic Exercise in Athletic Training - 4 credits
This course will examine the knowledge, skills and values the entry-level athletic trainer must possess to plan, implement, document and evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic exercise programs for the rehabilitation and reconditioning of the injuries and illnesses of athletes and others involved in physical activity. Assessment techniques will be presented and discussed in a didactic manner as well as applied through lab experiences.

AT 5255 Introduction to Burdenko Conditioning - 1 credit
This course will identify the principles for, and the relationship between, water and land exercises. Participants will learn how to use water as a modality to develop the qualities of flexibility, balance, endurance, strength, speed and coordination.

AT 5300 General Medical - 3 credits
This course will examine the knowledge, skills and values that the entry-level athletic trainer must possess to recognize, treat and refer, when appropriate, the general medical conditions and disabilities of athletes and others involved in physical activity.

AT 5500 Modalities in Sports Medicine - 4 credits
This is a comprehensive course in the theory and use of therapeutic modalities in a sports medicine setting. Principles of neurophysiology, pain control, the electromagnetic and acoustic spectra will be discussed and applied through lab experiences.

AT 5600 Research Design in Health Sciences - 3 credits
This course is designed to develop skills in research design, as well as to enhance the student's understanding of literature searching, reading and synthesizing of information in health science. In this course, students will conduct a review of literature to explore potential research topics. Students will develop a research question in preparation for their research experience.

AT 5610 Statistics in Health Sciences - 3 credits
This course is designed to be a continuation of Research Design in Health Sciences and will further develop skills in statistical design and research procedures. This course will outline the procedures for piloting and collecting data, and will provide guidelines for writing results, discussion and the development of a paper acceptable for submission for publication.

AT 5700 Instructional Strategies in Burdenko Conditioning - 1-3 credits
Students will learn and apply the instructional knowledge base on how to plan, implement and evaluate comprehensive conditioning programs based on the Burdenko conditioning method. This method identifies the principles for, and the relationship between, water and land exercises. Students will learn how to use water as a modality to develop the qualities of flexibility, balance, endurance, strength, speed and coordination.

AT 5710 Burdenko Certification Part I - 3 credits
The Part I (level 1, 2, 3) core program introduces the student to the philosophy of the Burdenko Method both on land and in water. Techniques are introduced that exemplify, illustrate and expand upon that philosophy. This learning phase is accomplished through written material, demonstrations and active participation. Active practice occurs both in large groups and pairs, under the supervision of the instructor. The student is then asked to teach that sequence to his or her partner and the instructor. The student will then receive feedback from the partner and the instructor. It is expected that the student will prepare for the practical and written exams. Prerequisite: anatomy, physiology and kinesiology coursework.

AT 5720 Burdenko Certification Part II - 3 credits
Part II (levels 4, 5, 6) expands on the techniques utilizing more complex movement patterns both on land and in water relative to rehabilitation, conditioning and training. This learning phase is accomplished through written material, demonstrations, active participation and feedback. Active practice occurs both in large groups and pairs, under the supervision of the instructor. The student is then asked to teach that sequence to his or her partner and is given feedback by both the partner and the instructor. Prerequisite: Burdenko Certification Part I.

AT 5730 Burdenko Certification Part III - 3 credits
Part III certification is designed to train a student who is already currently certified in Burdenko Part I and Part II, and committed to become a certifying instructor of the method. Upon completion and certification of this course, the student would be able to host and teach certification level programs for both Part I and Part II. Prerequisite: Burdenko Certification Parts I and II.

AT 5740 Aquatic Exercise for Therapeutic Intervention and Sports Training and Conditioning - 3 credits
This course provides students with the opportunity to explore the use of water as a therapeutic, conditioning and training modality. Principles of hydrostatic pressure, buoyancy, drag and turbulence will be introduced and applied in this student-centered, active learning course, Therapeutic, conditioning and training progression will be introduced from the more elementary exercises for rehabilitation and reconditioning through the introduction of aquatic exercises for strength and conditioning. Prerequisite: anatomy and kinesiology coursework.

AT 5750 Practicum in Athletic Training I - 1 credit
Practicum in Athletic Training is designed to provide the graduate student in Athletic Training some hands-on experiences with which to understand, recognize, evaluate and treat athletic injuries and illnesses using the range of skills required of an athletic training professional. Experience is completed under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer. Prerequisites: AT 5010, AT 5020, AT 5500, AT 5250.

AT 5760 Practicum in Athletic Training II - 1 credit
Practicum in Athletic Training is designed to provide the graduate student in Athletic Training some hands-on experiences with which to understand, recognize, evaluate and treat athletic injuries and illnesses using the range of skills required of an athletic training professional. Experience is completed under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer. Prerequisites: AT 5010, AT 5020, AT 5500, AT 5250.

AT 5770 Practicum in Athletic Training III - 1 credit
Practicum in Athletic Training is designed to provide the graduate student in Athletic Training some hands-on experiences with which to understand, recognize, evaluate and treat athletic injuries and illnesses using the range of skills required of an athletic training professional. Experience is completed under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer. Prerequisites: AT 5010, AT 5020, AT 5500, AT 5250.

AT 5780 Practicum in Athletic Training IV - 1 credit
Practicum in Athletic Training is designed to provide the graduate student in Athletic Training some hands-on experiences with which to understand, recognize, evaluate and treat athletic injuries and illnesses using the range of skills required of an athletic training professional. Experience is completed under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer. Prerequisites: AT 5010, AT 5020, AT 5500, AT 5250.

AT 5790 Advanced Practicum in Athletic Training - 1-6 credits
Practicum in Athletic Training is designed to provide the graduate student in Athletic Training a variety of opportunities to expand their knowledge of the profession. The practicum coordination, content and requirements are determined by the student's advisor. Repeatable.

AT 5800 Current Issues in Athletic Training - 3 credits
This course was designed to provide a forum for discussion of contemporary issues in athletic training. Presentations will be made by students, instructor and guest lecturers.

AT 5850 Performance Enhancement Specialization - 3 credits
This course is based on the National Academy of Sports Medicine certification program for the Performance Enhancement Specialist. The curriculum will follow the required content material to prepare each student to take the Performance Enhancement certification exam upon completion of the course.

AT 5875 Special Topics in Athletic Training - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern in athletic training. The course will be taught by a specialist in the field related to the topic. May be repeated with a different topic. Use of WebCT for support material is expected.

AT 5900 Directed Research - 1-3 credits
This course will give students valuable experience in research design, data collection and/or analysis by playing an integral role in a faculty sponsored research project. Repeatable.

AT 5910 Independent Study - 1-6 credits
This course is designed to provide enrichment to the background of students in athletic training through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interest and abilities. This course provides an opportunity for in-depth study of a problem in the field of athletic training. The consent of a faculty supervisor is required.

AT 5950 Graduate Thesis - 1-6 credits
Students select a topic for study in consultation with their program advisor and related faculty. A time line, thesis proposal and defense are outlined. Two copies of the thesis must be submitted to Lamson Library and Learning Commons; bound copies are presented to the thesis committee. Students will be required to enroll in AT 5950 Thesis every term until thesis is complete. Repeatable. P/NP

to top of page

Business & Economics

Unless specific prerequisites are stated, graduate status only is required for all 5000 level business courses. All MBA core courses (*) are offered each fall, winter and spring quarter.

Business

BU 5050 Business Graduate Internship - 3 credits
A supervised internship in business for graduate students. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience and apply knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. The internship placement must provide a new learning experience for the student. A work journal, reading in the field and a report on work experience are required. Permission of Internship coordinator, department chair and Program coordinator of Graduate Studies in Business. Prerequisite: nine graduate credits in business.

BU 5110 Managing Organizational Behavior - 3 credits
A review of theory and research findings in the field of organizational behavior, with emphasis on applications by practicing managers. Topics to be covered include perception, motivation, leadership, communication, group dynamics, conflict management and organization theory. Pedagogical techniques include case analysis, presentations, role plays and other experiential activities. Prerequisite: Behavioral Science competency.

BU 5115 Creating Organizational Health - 3 credits
The course is designed as an intensive introduction to the theories, methods and tools for building wellness concepts into the strategic planning process of organizations. The class will define the future of wellness and develop holistic principles leading to organizational health. At the completion of the course students will have an understanding of ways to institute a new wellness paradigm into organizational design.

BU 5120 Financial Analysis and Decision Making - 3 credits
A complete corporate financial management course. Content covers the classic areas of valuation, capital structure and budgeting as well as more specialized financial topics. Online version incorporates online course materials and exercises.

BU 5160 Seminar in Managing Human Resources - 3 credits
A review of contemporary techniques, practices and research results in the area of human resource management, with emphasis on the perspective of the practicing manager. Topics to be covered include recruitment, selection, training and development, performance appraisal, compensation, labor relations and collective bargaining, occupational safety and health and employee rights within the context of federal and state legal regulation. The case method is used extensively. The goal is to assist the line or staff manager in effective utilization and implementation of human resource policies and practices.

BU 5165 Training and Development - 3 credits
This course provides the application of learning theories and instructional development to the education and training of employees. Topics include instructional design, strategy, technology and the implementation, evaluation and management of training in an organizational environment.

BU 5190 Accounting for Managers - 3 credits
Budgetary accounting and cost accounting including profit planning and control systems, budget process, cost systems and their managerial applications. Prerequisite: demonstration of competency in Financial Accounting.

BU 5210 Economic Analysis - 3 credits
Today's business climate demands managers who can make decisions involving the best use of an organization's scarce resources under conditions that change rapidly. This course demonstrates the power of problem-solving insights and uses a cross-functional approach. Topics to be covered include strategic pricing using game theory, forecasting techniques and demand estimation, cost analysis, linear programming and optimization under various market structures. Prerequisites: Macroeconomics, Microeconomics and Statistics competencies or permission of the instructor.

BU 5220 The Legal Environment of Business - 3 credits
A basic understanding of legal problems is expanded, analytical ability is developed and an awareness of the presence of legal problems that surround the businessperson is explored. Freedom of choice, taxation, stockholder status, acquisitions and divisions, antitrust, employment, administrative law and bankruptcy are covered as time allows.

BU 5225 Current Issues in Employment Law - 3 credits
A study of legal issues that affect employers and employees in the modern American workplace, including wage/hour regulation, employment discrimination, sexual harassment, workers' compensation, disabled employee protection, covenants not to compete, whistleblowers' protection and union representation.

BU 5230 Management of Organizational Changes - 3 credits
A study of the nature and scope of organizational change and development, from the perspective of the practicing manager. Consideration is given to the need for and role of consultants in this process, be they internal or external to the organization. Procedures to be discussed include survey research, job enrichment, management by objectives, team building and program evaluation. The case method will be used. Emphasis is on the role of the practicing manager in the control and facilitation of organizational change.

BU 5240 Seminar in Organizational Communication - 3 credits
An in-depth study of the variables affecting the transmission of internal and external organizational communication. While focusing on audience analysis, message transmission and business/media relations, critical skills such as listening, speaking, writing analysis and an understanding of nonverbal, visual and mass communication will be developed. Practical topics will include: organizational systems, conference organization, metacommunications, public relations, improved listening skills and presentational speaking.

BU 5400 Survey of Issues in Health Care Administration - 3 credits
This course serves as the introduction to the graduate Healthcare Certificate program. In this course students will be able to recognize and discuss the basic components of the United States healthcare system by learning various aspects of the industry, global alternatives and how a multitude of internal and external factors impact and shape our delivery system. Topics will be supported by information in text books, articles and Web sites. Students will use this material in preparation for written essays, presentations and classroom discussions.

BU 5410 Human Resources in Health Care Administration - 3 credits
This course will address managing organizational behavior issues and techniques with a specific focus on human resource management issues unique to the healthcare industry.

BU 5420 Healthcare Law and Ethics - 3 credits
This course is specifically designed for graduate students enrolled in the proposed Healthcare Administration Certificate Program and/or an MBA with a health administration specialty. This course will focus on the principles and theories of law as it relates to health care delivery; healthcare management and administration; examination of the applications of laws in relation to healthcare liability prevention and risks facing administrators, managers and practitioners.

BU 5430 Healthcare Administration and Financial Management - 3 credits
This course presents an in-depth review of the financial management of healthcare organizations. This includes but is not limited to budget formulation process specific to healthcare delivery systems, funding sources and payment methodology, managing working capital and capital budgeting, the unique characteristics of non-profit organizations, and financial analysis of such organizations. Students will also do case study analysis in the previously mentioned topics.

BU 5490 Capstone: Health Care Topics - 3 credits
This course is a seminar-style presentation of current healthcare topics. This is an integrative course that incorporates all previous coursework into a cohesive body of knowledge. The topics include but are not limited to healthcare policy, quality initiatives, marketing in healthcare, current issues within Medicare and Medicaid, strategic decision making and public health.

BU 5460 Graduate Money and Banking - 3 credits
Designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the roles of commercial and central banking in the U.S. economy. Topics of special interest include (1) monetary policy, including interaction effects with fiscal policy; (2) analysis of the role of monetary factors in our recent inflation-proof economy; and (3) the significance to the domestic economy of international financial developments, particularly the role of the "Eurodollar". Of special interest is the recent inability of the banking system to compete effectively for funds with other financial intermediaries (especially money market mutual funds). Prerequisite: Macroeconomics competency or permission of the instructor.

BU 5500 Small Business Problems and Strategy: SBI Part I - 3 credits
Student teams examine, research and present case findings and recommendations orally and in writing. Constant attention is given to those problems unique to small businesses. Students will go out into the field with the instructor as a team. Students will act as business consultants to a business in the area under the Small Business Institute Program® at Plymouth State University.

BU 5501 Small Business Analysis: SBI Part II - 3 credits
Required for a six-credit Small Business Institute® project that includes primary and secondary research, complex financial analysis and a comprehensive plan including specific recommendations for improvements in business operations. Final report preparation of findings and recommendations to the small business client are requirements of this course.

BU 5510 Operations Management - 3 credits
Examination of the nature and structure of decision-making in the midst of uncertainty. Formal techniques for measurement of risks and rewards are applied to case studies based chiefly on production systems. Concludes with a survey of current techniques for operations analysis, planning and control.

BU 5520 Negotiating, Collaborating and Leading in Today's World - 3 credits
This course examines the dynamics, constraints and skills needed in negotiation, collaboration and leadership. It focuses equally on using negotiation in business planning and in dispute resolution. Theories of negotiation are examined through current literature and specific techniques are taught through simulated exercises. The course is drawn from the fields of business, law, psychology, administration and communication. Also offered as AD 5520.

BU 5530 Multinational Marketing - 3 credits
Post W.W.II, the trend toward freer trade and accelerating technological change, has been altering the world's economic landscape via the process of globalization. The recent drift toward regionalism (e.g., unifying European and North American markets), the collapse and subsequent restructuring of many of the world's national economies such as in the Soviet and Eastern European economies, have served as massive economic experiments. Global recession and recovery have been studies to glean what has worked and what has failed in each of these examples yielding critical information for future marketing strategies. This course is designed to introduce some of the key issues of these international events that can be incorporated into multinational marketing. This class will focus on issues involved in marketing products and services across national boundaries. Culture, economic arrangements, technical standards, currency movements, language, religion, ideology, politics, distance and conflicting interpretations of national and global interests combine to complicate the administration of marketing's familiar 4-Ps cross-nationally. This course uses a combination of lectures, global marketing cases, discussion, and mini projects to examine specific issues currently involved in multinational marketing strategies.

BU 5550 Investment Management - 3 credits
Combines modern financial theory with the real world of finance. The objective is to provide concepts and tools for practical investment analysis and portfolio management. Topics include security markets, tax environment, risk, fixed-income securities, common stock valuation, fundamental and technical analysis, concentrations, mutual funds, commodity and financial futures, portfolio theory. Emphasis is on successful strategies. Written case analysis. Subscription to Wall Street Journal.

BU 5580 Real Estate Entrepreneurship - 3 credits
Various methods of entry into this industry are examined. The roles and methods of brokers, developers, investors, financiers, appraisers and managers are analyzed using financial models, economics and law. The goal of the course is to gain a working knowledge that may be applied by the individual or by an organization.

BU 5590 Budgeting and Fund Accounting - 3 credits
This course provides an understanding of budgeting and fund accounting concepts appropriate for governmental entities, not-for-profits, school systems, and colleges and universities. The course objective is to enable students to understand different ways of constructing accounting information to be used by the various entities for reporting, planning and control. The use of accounting in decisionmaking will be the focus of attention.

BU 5600 Federal Taxes and Business Decisions - 3 credits
Tax laws and their effect on management planning and decision-making, as well as on personal financial transactions are of interest to managers and accountants. Representative topics include tax aspects of selecting a business form; tax factors in acquiring, using and disposing of land, buildings, equipment; capital gains and losses; nontaxable transactions; individual income tax; family tax planning; common tax traps. Prerequisite: Financial Accounting competency or permission of the instructor.

BU 5610 Contemporary Accounting and the Business Environment - 3 credits
A study of contemporary accounting issues as they influence the business manager and the public. The interaction of accounting and the total business environment is discussed. Some areas that may be covered include segment reporting, social responsibility accounting, the SEc today, current value accounting, the impact of governmental regulations on various industries, management advisory services by accounting firms, current cost issues in our society. Written research reports and oral reports are required from all students.

BU 5620 Auditing Perspectives - 3 credits
Theory and procedures underlying auditors' responsibilities in examining and reporting on financial statements of a business enterprise are discussed including professional ethics, auditing standards, reports, internal control and the selection, scope and application of auditing procedures.

BU 5630 Policy Topics - 3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern will be the focus of this course and will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated.

BU 5680 Applications in Marketing Research - 3 credits
A study of 'decisional research' in business and its importance to management. As an integral part of learning the marketing research process, graduate students will be involved in actual, in-the-field marketing research process, from problem identification through final presentation of findings and recommendations.

BU 5690 Behavioral Perspectives in Marketing - 3 credits
This course provides an understanding of consumer behavior and its relationship to marketing management. Applications of concepts from psychology, social psychology, cultural anthropology, sociology and economics will be emphasized while interpreting current studies in consumer research and illustrating their marketing implications. Areas of concentration include: image management, brand loyalty, product positioning, attitude measurement, market segmentation and the consumer decision-making process. An applied orientation of behavioral science to marketing management. Prerequisite: BU 5700.

BU 5700 Marketing Techniques - 3 credits
The objective of this course is to help students develop a broad understanding of marketing techniques, strategies and tactics employed by the marketing manager. This course will cover the use of the 'marketing mix' elements as they pertain to the planning and implementation of the marketing plan.

BU 5720 Seminar in Executive Management - 3 credits
From a decision-maker's point of view, students will participate in a seminar involving middle- and upper-level managerial responsibilities, as well as discussions concerning "state of the art" methodologies appropriate to all levels of management. Case studies and group projects will be combined with informal lectures and discussions involving such areas as strategic planning, action planning techniques, policy making, managerial ethics, decision-making methods, control systems and the integration of all resources for optimum performance. Prerequisite: Basic Management core courses (BU 5190, BU 5120 and BU 5210) and/or commensurate work experience.

BU 5730 Current Issues in Marketing - 3 credits
This course is designed to explore the contemporary issues and challenges impacting the future of marketing management. Developments in technology, communications, demographics, consumerism, packaging, marketing information systems and non-product marketing, are some of the variables to be examined in terms of their current and future influence on the functions of the marketing manager. All other required marketing courses should be completed before entering this course.

BU 5750 Master's Research Project - 6 credits
MBA candidates may elect to do some investigation relating to an applied or theoretical problem in their area of interest. Normally it is expected that the enrollment for this course will cover two terms. The forms for the development and approval of this project are available in the Graduate Studies office. One copy of the final report will be provided to each advisor and the original copy will be submitted to the department chair. There will be an oral presentation of the Master's Research Project results to the professor and readers prior to April of the year of graduation. Requirements are expected to be completed by May in the year of graduation.

BU 5810 Seminar in Corporate Public Relations - 3 credits
This course combines the theoretical knowledge and applied skills needed for effective organizational public relations. Emphasis is on communication strategies for both profit and non-profit organizations. Additional emphasis is placed on writing skills, understanding media channels, and developing a major media project for your organization by utilizing the public relations theory and practices studied in this course. Specific topics include an understanding of models of communication; corporate communication decision making; methods of persuasion; targeting publics; communication channels; effective writing; mass media; and business-media relations. Specific objectives include emphasizing the importance of effective writing skills in public relations; understanding the function of public relations in organizations; public relations practices; and providing students with an opportunity to develop public relations strategies and produce supporting promotional materials for their own organization.

BU 5820 Women as Leaders - 3 credits
This course challenges women to consider the cultures, climates and contexts that limit and support their capacities as leaders. Students will explore personal leadership styles, characteristics of effective leaders and strategies for developing themselves as leaders.

BU 5850 New Ventures and Entrepreneurship - 3 credits
The course focuses on business start-ups, providing an intensive introduction to business planning from the defining of a "primary vision" through market size assessment and strategic operations planning, to the financing, staffing and implementation of the new venture. Course includes readings on entrepreneurship, case studies of both small and large examples of successful new ventures and student fieldwork. Software available to help business planning will be introduced for hands-on use. Students will each prepare a formal business plan for new ventures.

BU 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in business through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities is offered through independent study opportunities. This is an opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the business field. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair, Program coordinator and Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Economics

EC 5460 Graduate Money and Banking - 3 credits
Designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the roles of commercial and central banking in the U.S. economy. Topics of special interest include (1) monetary policy, including interaction effects with fiscal policy; (2) analysis of the role of monetary factors in our recent inflation-proof economy; and (3) the significance to the domestic economy of international financial developments, particularly the role of the "Eurodollar". Of special interest is the recent inability of the banking system to compete effectively for funds with other financial intermediaries (especially money market mutual funds). Prerequisite: Macroeconomics competency or permission of the instructor.

EC 5610 Economic Issues in International Finance - 3 credits
The study of international finance (international monetary relations) covers financial policies, international loans, balance of payments accounting, exchange rates, reserve and payments currencies, and international liquidity. Of particular interest is the impact of the U.S. economy of international financial developments. Balance of payments adjustment under fixed and flexible exchange rates and under the gold standard will be considered in detail. Prerequisite: Macroeconomics and Microeconomics competencies or permission of the instructor.

EC 5615 Global Economics - 3 credits
The national economies today are all deeply embedded in an interactive global network with profound implications for both economic theory and economic policy. In this course, students will engage in theoretical as well as empirical studies of international economic relationships.

EC 5910 Independent Study in Economics - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in business through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of business. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair, Program coordinator of Graduate Studies in Business and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Counseling

CO 5010 Foundations of the Counseling Profession - 3 credits
This course provides foundational understanding of the philosophical and ethical underpinnings of the counseling field and professional orientation through an examination of theories, processes, competencies, and specialties. This course promotes intra- and inter- personal awareness and their relationship to the characteristics of effective counselors.

CO 5020 Counseling Skills - 3 credits
The course is designed to help students develop basic counseling skills. Through role play, practice interviews and tape transcriptions, students will have the opportunity to learn and practice basic counseling skills. The relationships among theory, case conceptualizations and counseling interventions will be examined. Ethical and culturally responsive practices will be emphasized. Prerequisites: CO5260 and CO5010 or SY6010.

CO 5030 School Counseling - 3 credits
Provides opportunities for students to understand school counselors' roles and responsibilities. Students will understand the development, organization and administration of comprehensive guidance and counseling programs. Also focuses upon decision-making within a legal and ethical context, cultural diversity and contemporary issues facing school counselors. Prerequisite: CO 5010. There is a 20-hour prepracticum field experience as part of this course.

CO 5050 Advanced Human Development - 3 credits
Focuses on a life-span approach to human development and looks at the constancy and change in behavior throughout life, from conception to death. Students will study human development in the context of a multidisciplinary approach and the larger ecological context of developmental events in human behavior. This course will have four major concerns: a) to identify and describe the changes that occur across the life span; b) to explain these changes in the context of maturation, early learning and societal factors impacting development; c) to review research and theoretical frameworks that have affected our way of thinking and d) study the interdependence and interrelatedness of all aspects of development. There is a 16 hour service learning/prepracticum field experience as part of this course. Offered each spring. Summer of odd numbered years.

CO 5100 Practicum in Counseling - 3 credits
A basic laboratory practicum for all MEd students in the School Counseling and Mental Health concentration. The focus is on the development of basic counseling skills through lecture, demonstration, class participation, discussion, practice counseling with classmates, observation, counseling with clients, individual supervision and group supervision. This course has a 100-hour field requirement. Offered falls and spring. Prerequisites: CO 5010, CO 5260, ED5030, CO5020. Prerequisite or corequisite: CO 5780 or CO 5790. CO5770 is an additional prerequisite for Mental Health Counseling students only.

CO 5130 Psychopharmacology and the Biological Basis of Mental Health - 3 credits
Psychopharmacology and the Biological Basis of Mental Health course will explore the biological influences on mental illness. This will include an examination of the physiological basis of behavior, perception, emotion and self-regulation; the current theory and research on the relationship between biological events in the central nervous system and behavior; and psychopharmacological interventions. Prerequisites: CO5010 or SY6010 or permission of the instructor.

CO 5150 Eating Disorder Clinical - 1-3 credits
This clinical experience is a capstone course for those enrolled in the Eating Disorders certificate program. Students will be able to choose a focus on awareness and prevention, and education experience or a clinical experience working in an eating disorders treatment facility for 120 hours. Prerequisite: 12 credits of Eating Disorders certificate program. Also presented as HL 5150.

CO 5160 Eating Disorder Awareness and Prevention - 3 credits
The focus of the course will be on increasing the student's knowledge of awareness, education, prevention and treatment of eating disorders. Discussion will include diagnostic classifications; causes of eating disorders; history, prevalence and treatment approaches to eating disorders; a discussion of a wellness/holistic approach to medical, nutritional and psychological therapies; special populations i.e. women, children, males, athletes; prevention programs; resources; the latest research and information on becoming a coordinator of Eating Disorder Awareness and Prevention Week. Also presented as HL 5160.

CO 5170 Treatment Modalities for Eating Disorders - 3 credits
This course will be an in-depth study of the dynamics of eating disorders followed by an overview of the dominant counseling approaches used in eating disorders treatment and management. The focus will include diagnosis, psychological assessments, psychotherapeutic and other interventions, as well as clinical issues encountered in treatment. Prerequisite: CO/HL 5160. Also presented as HL 5170.

CO 5180 Nutrition Fundamentals and Counseling in the Recovery of Eating Disorders - 3 credits
This course will focus on nutritional education issues relevant to those interested in health and wellness for the general population, as well as those working with eating disorders clients. Discussion will include: basic concepts of nutrition science and nutritional needs, evaluation of weight management methods, investigation of food facts and fallacies, different diet plans, i.e. vegetarian, sports nutrition. Information will be presented on how the nutritionist, counselor or health educator applies nutritional information to their clients or students. The course will also include how to present information in nutritional counseling and education for the eating disorder client. Prerequisite: CO/HL 5160 or permission of instructor. Also presented as HL 5180.

CO 5190 Medical and Physiological Aspects of Eating Disorders - 3 credits
The focus of the course will be to increase the student's knowledge of the effects eating disorders have on the body's medial systems and the physiologic function. Discussion will include diagnostic criteria and a multidisciplinary, integrative approach to assessment and management of each disorder. Emphasis will be placed on the evaluation of each body system, as well as prevention and treatment of medical complications. Prerequisite: CO/HL 5160. Also presented as HL 5190.

CO 5230 Career Counseling and Development - 3 credits
An introduction to career development theories and their application to the counseling process. Students will understand and utilize career information and assessments as they pertain to counseling and career development. Students will apply theory and practice to current or potential work settings. Prerequisite: CO 5010. There is a 20-hour prepracticum field experience as part of this course.

CO 5260 Counseling Theories - 3 credits
Major counseling theories and their relationship to the counseling process are explored. Individual, familial and systemic models are presented along with dynamics and issues that reflect and cross theoretical perspectives. Students will be required to compare and contrast counseling theories and strategies, consider appropriate application of these strategies in diverse populations and develop a personal model for providing help and facilitating behavioral change. Fall. Summer of even years. Prerequisite or co-requisite: CO 5010.

CO 5300 Foundations and Multicultural Aspects of Parenting - 3 credits
Focuses on developing competency in a variety of areas surrounding parenting education, including the following: understanding of parental issues and concerns within diverse family systems; understanding the dimensions of parenting children from birth to adolescence; and knowledge of multicultural perspectives in parenting.

CO 5310 Strategies for Parenting Education - 3 credits
Examines the practical aspects of parenting education. Students will study a variety of parenting education models, incorporating features of these models into their own particular situations (e.g. schools, agencies or hospitals) and their respective populations (e.g. expectant parents or parents of preschoolers, school-age children, adolescents or children with learning challenges). Topics to be discussed include: delivery approaches, implementation issues, outcomes assessment, and trends and directions in parenting education. Offered according to demand.

CO 5320 Developing Family School and Community Partnerships - 3 credits
Focuses on developing effective family-school-community partnerships through outreach and family empowerment. The course will emphasize a systems perspective and discuss strategies to involve families and the community in children's education, including shared responsibility for educational outcomes. Students will develop assessment tools and intervention plans designed to bring families, schools and communities into closer and more collaborative relationships. Specific attention will be paid to working with diverse parents.

CO 5360 Interpersonal and Group Process - 3 credits
Development and awareness of behavioral skills that facilitate positive socioemotional-educational growth within interpersonal and group contexts, and the development of an understanding of interpersonal and group processes.

CO 5400 Focused Research in Human Relations - 1-3 credits
To formulate, develop and present results of a thorough literature search related to the student's area of professional interest. The student, working under direction of the course instructor, will carry out the research from design to completion.

CO 5430 Assessment and Consultation - 3 credits
This course will help the student understand and interpret the principles of assessing students with and without disabilities. It includes valid evaluations and their use in eligibility determination, development of individualized education plans and monitoring student progress. Standardized and non-standardized assessment techniques will be discussed in detail, including some state and national assessments. The range of assessments include intellectual functioning, interest inventories, achievement tests, aptitude tests, objective and projective personality assessments and non-test techniques such as observations and self-reporting. There will be a special emphasis placed upon the role of the counselor as a consultant to staff and colleagues in schools and other agency settings. Discussion of federal and state rules and regulations as they apply to the rights and ethical responsibilities of the professional and the population served by the professional. Special consideration will be give to the treatment of minority populations and children with disabilities in the assessment and consultation process and in the inclusive educational environment. Prerequisite: ED 5030.

CO 5460 Group Counseling - 3 credits
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of theory, practice and ethics in group counseling across the lifespan within clinical, school and other professional settings.  This course provides students an opportunity to develop group counseling skills through classroom facilitation and supervision.  This course also has a 10 hour experiential group counseling component, which is required for students obtaining their MEd in Mental Health or School Counseling.

CO 5480 Adventure in Schools and Human Services - 3 credits
This course is designed to orient school professionals and human service providers to the history, theory and ethical practice of adventure programming. Students will become a part of an experiential learning community to foster greater transfer of learning back to their communities, organizations and employment settings.

CO 5535 Foundations of Conflict Resolution - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide students with the essential foundations to create workable conflict resolution programs in their respective fields of interest. Conflict happens, therefore there needs to be a process that will allow individuals to engage in interpersonal relationships, in any circumstances, productively and peaceably. The emphasis on the course will be how the process is used in the classroom, but it is not specific to this environment. Students will review many theories and concepts that can be used to create a peaceable environment within the classroom or workplace.

CO 5540 Topics in Alternative Health and Healing - 3 credits
Topics in Alternative Health and Healing introduces the fundamental concepts of complementary and alternative health and wellness methods and practices. Participants will explore and study the psychophysiology of a wide variety of mind/body modalities and discuss the integration of these approaches with Western medicine.

CO 5550 Creating Organizational Health - 3 credits
The course is designed as an intensive introduction to the theories, methods and tools for building wellness concepts into the strategic planning process of organizations. The class will define the future of wellness in the workplace evolving beyond mechanistic approaches to individual wellness and developing holistic principles leading to organizational health. At the completion of the course, students will have an understanding of ways to institute a new wellness paradigm into organizational design.

CO 5560 Special Topics in Counseling - 1-3 credits
This course offers an in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied. A faculty member can also coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

CO 5560 Special Topics: Foundations of Conflict Resolution - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide students with the essential foundations to create workable conflict resolution programs in their respective fields of interest. Conflict happens, therefore there needs to be a process that will allow individuals to engage in interpersonal relationships, in any circumstances, productively and peaceably. The emphasis on the course will be how the process is used in the classroom, but it is not specific to this environment. Students will review many theories and concepts that can be used to create a peaceable environment within the classroom or workplace.

CO 5570 Mindfulness Meditation: Theory and Practice - 3 credits
Mindfulness Meditation Theory and Practice examines the theoretical basis for the use of meditation as a healing tool. In a meditative retreat format, participants learn and practice various types of meditation such as body scan, sitting, walking, eating and music meditation. Extended periods of practice and interspersed with discussion, reflection, presentation and small group work.

CO 5590 Transpersonal Psychology - 3 credits
Transpersonal Psychology addresses aspects of mind and behavior that transcend individual ego and personal identity. This course considers the dimensions of consciousness, the implications of transpersonal experiences and the connection between psychology and spirituality. Class members gain an understanding of the fundamental assumptions underlying transpersonal theory and skills in applying theory to facilitate growth, health and wellbeing.

CO 5600 Introduction to Mental Health Counseling - 3 credits
Introduction to the mental health counseling field. Exploring issues of developing a professional identity, understanding the larger mental health service delivery system, being sensitive to issues of diversity, and integrating theory and ethics into ideas about professional mental health counseling. There is a 20-hour prepracticum field experience as part of this course. Spring. Prerequisites: CO 5010.

CO 5610 The Circle of Life - 3 credits
The Circle of Life explores the life cycle from birth to the dying process and the ending of life, including issues concerning near-death experiences, how people die and the meaning of death. The course examines death at different ages and within various relationships, along with stages of grieving and strategies for coping.

CO 5620 Spiritual Health - 3 credits
Spiritual Health provides an opportunity to explore the role of the spiritual dimensions of wellness. A process of inquiry will help you better understand the spiritual dimension of self and the relationship of spirit to the health and healing process.

CO 5650 Critical Issues: School Counseling and Special Education - 3 credits
This course focuses on the role of the school counselor in special education and crisis prevention and intervention. Topics include special education processes, roles, laws, ethics, disability categories, the Individual Educational Plan (IEP), cultural factors, school learning, divorce, bullying, child abuse, death, illness, parents with disabilities, moving, school violence and disasters, suicide, substance abuse, homosexuality, adolescent parenthood, parent-adolescent crises, rape and sexual assault and eating disorders. Prerequisite CO 5010.

CO 5670 Family and Social Systems - 3 credits
A review of the phenomenological field of both the client and the counselor in terms of personal development and the theoretical frameworks associated with social systems. Designed to enable students to identify and determine appropriate intervention strategies for both the environmental and internal variables associated with clients and their support systems that are commonly seen in counseling. Prerequisites: CO 5010 and CO 5260.

CO 5700 Critical Issues: Mental Health Counseling - 3 credits
This course examines models of crisis intervention, trauma and substance abuse treatment. Students will learn current intervention models, how to evaluate risk factors, and how to determine and utilize resources. Prerequisite: CO 5010. Fall.

CO 5770 Psychopathology: Disorders of Childhood, Adolescence and Adulthood - 3 credits
Course provides a clear, balanced presentation of the psychology of abnormal behavior including current theoretical models, research, clinical experiences, therapies and controversies. Enables student to understand psychological/psychiatric disorders as discrete clinical conditions and to be able to apply differential diagnoses. Fall. Prerequisite: CO5010 or SY6010 or permission of instructor.

CO 5780 Consultation and Counseling Interventions with Children and Adolescents - 3 credits
Multicultural counseling skill development to intervene successfully with children and adolescents. The application of brief counseling, play therapy and small group work with children and adolescents. Designed to provide counselors with the skills needed to effectively consult with teachers, administrators, parents and others. Spring. Summer of even years. Prerequisite: CO 5010 or SY 6010, CO 5260, CO 5050 or permission of the instructor.

CO 5790 Interventions in Mental Health Counseling - 3 credits
This course examines clinical interventions and documentation in clinical mental health settings. Students will learn and practice clinical counseling skills appropriate to mental health settings, documentation procedures and assessment strategies. Contemporary models of brief treatment, mental health consultation and prevention will be covered. An emphasis will be placed on culturally responsive counseling. This course is designed to develop necessary entry-level mental health counseling skills. Prerequisites: CO5010, 5020, CO5260.

CO 5800 Counseling Internship - 1-6 credits
An internship for students in the Self-Designed concentration of the Counselor Education program. Students are expected to gain experience in the area of specialization chosen for the degree concentration. The internship is designed to be the culminating experience of the program. Prerequisite: Completion of all major required courses and permission of the instructor.

CO 5850 Seminar and Internship in School Counseling - 1-6 credits
Personal, educational and career guidance, and counseling experiences performed under supervision of a certified counselor and conducted in a public school setting. In addition to the required field experiences totaling 600 hours, students must attend seminar meetings on campus with fellow student interns and the Plymouth supervisor to exchange viewpoints and feedback. Designed to be the culminating experience in the counselor Education program. Prerequisite: completion of all required courses, school counseling and consent of instructor.

CO 5880 Seminar and Internship in Mental Health Counseling - 1-12 credits
A 900-hour clinical counseling experience under supervision and conducted in a mental health counseling setting. Students must attend an on-campus seminar with fellow student interns that provides an opportunity for case presentation and professional development. Designed to be the culminating experience in the Mental Health counseling concentration. Students must provide evidence of liability insurance. Prerequisites: completion of all required courses in the Mental Health counseling concentration and consent of the Plymouth internship supervisor. Variable and repeatable.

CO 5910 Independent Study in Counselor Education - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. An opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, the department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

CO 7010 Foundations of Play Therapy: History, Theory and Special Applications - 3 credits
This course is designed to present a broad overview of the major theories of play therapy (history, therapeutic properties of play, developmental perspectives, beliefs, techniques) and the application of these theories to a variety of special populations and settings. The course is an introductory course and is one of the required courses for becoming a registered play therapist (RPT).

CO 7020 Child-Centered Play Therapy - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide post-graduate counselors with the development of therapeutic skills and experience in implementing child-centered theory in the play therapy process. Class format includes lectures, discussions, personal reflections, skill development, case presentations and videotaping with critique analysis. Group supervision is a strong component in this course.

CO 7120 Professional, Legal and Ethical Issues in Counseling - 3 credits
The study of professional, legal and ethical issues facing clinical mental health counselors. Focus will be on developing professional identity, learning about ethical principles and standards underlying the profession, and being able to apply the law as it relates to the practice of counseling.

CO 7210 Practicum in Play Therapy - 3 credits
This post-graduate course is designed as an intensive experience in advanced training in play therapy counseling skills in the work with children. Classes will be a combination of discussion, video presentation, case presentation, personal reflection, tape reviews and group supervision. Students will have the opportunity to conduct parent interviews, creating treatment plans and provide observations of each child in this learning experience. Prerequisites: CO 7010 and CO 7020.

CO 7300 Counseling Supervision - 3 credits
This course addresses theoretical, ethical, legal, relational and practical issues in counseling supervision. In addition to reviewing the fundamentals of counseling supervision, the course will provide an experientially based opportunity to develop and practice relevant supervision strategies.

CO 7560 Counselor Education: Special Topics - 3 credits
This course offers an in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied. A faculty member can also coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

to top of page

Psychology

PS 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Advanced readings and research, with conferences and oral examinations provide advanced students with background and specialized knowledge relating to an area in which an appropriate course is not offered, or in which they have a special individual interest. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

School Psychology

SY 6010 Introduction to School Psychology - 3 credits
This survey course will introduce students to the areas of assessment, treatment and prevention of learning, behavior and emotional problems in school age children. Students will become familiar with a variety of psychological issues within a school environment. Students will become familiar with testing inventories as well as alternative ways of assessing children with difficulties. Ethical topics and procedures will be discussed. Students will be required to demonstrate professionalism, academic and personal integrity, and become familiar with the diverse roles and responsibilities of school psychologists. The course will also determine the suitability of students to enter the profession.

SY 6300 Social/Emotional/Behavioral Assessment - 3 credits
To provide a clear, balanced presentation of the learner's social/emotional characteristics. The student will be introduced to the areas of assessment of behavior by interview, observation and norm-referenced techniques. Functional behavior assessment will also be addressed. Objective and projective techniques will be introduced and the student will have the opportunity to learn about the history and practical administration of these instruments.

SY 6400 Administering Individual Intelligence Tests - 3 credits
Students will learn about the history and theories of intelligence testing. They will develop the skill to administer two norm-referenced intelligence tests (Child and Adult Editions of Wechsler Scales), interpret the results, and write and present cogent results of their findings as it relates to the child /adolescent and their learning. This course prepares school psychology candidates for the internship where they will gain proficiency in assessing cognitive ability.

SY 6700 Practicum I: Assessment, Intervention, & Consultation - 3 credits
This is a 3 credit course involving 50 clock hours at a field site under the supervision of a certified school psychologist. It is intended for candidates to practice their skills in assessment, consultation, counseling, and prevention and intervention. An on-campus seminar will be given for candidates to demonstrate their skills and share their experiences. Typically, candidates would take SY 6400 Administering Individual Intelligence Tests concurrently with Practicum I. Candidates should arrange their practicum placement prior to the beginning of the course to ensure a full semester experience.

SY 6710 Practicum II: Integration and Case Studies - 3 credits
Practicum II: Integration and Case Studies involves 50 hours at a field site under the supervision of a certified school psychologist. It is intended for candidates to develop a comprehensive and holistic perspective that combines early intervention, prevention, counseling, assessment, consultation, community resources, and systems interventions as they relate to individual case studies. Candidates will follow two or more children encompassing the entire special education process from the pre-referral stage to placement progress monitoring, and documenting the entire sequence including the extent to which those children have demonstrated specific measurable outcomes. An on-campus seminar will be given for candidates to discuss their experiences during the steps of their case studies and to supplement their practicum experience with related readings and discussion. This practicum will accommodate both models of special education identification (traditional assessment and response to intervention). Candidates will also present videos of their consultation skills and demonstrate knowledge of the ability to plan, coordinate and implement a psychological services delivery model within a school setting that includes assessment, pre-referral problem solving, crisis intervention, mental health intervention, functional skill training, collaboration, consultation, referral and counseling. Candidates should arrange their practicum placement six months prior to the beginning of the course to ensure a full semester experience.

SY 6800 School Psychology Internship and Seminar - 6-12 credits
As the culminating component in the School Psychology Program, this field experience will be done in a public school setting under the supervision of an NASP certified school psychologist. Students will also attend a seminar on campus to discuss their experiences, present psychological evaluations and interventions, and engage in mutual problem solving relative to dilemmas and issues encountered in the field experience. Prerequisites include completion of all required courses and permission of the internship instructor.

to top of page

Computer Education

CE 5120 Integration of Technology in the K-12 Curriculum - 3 credits
This instructional technology foundation course is designed to provide K-12 educators, school librarians/media teachers and administrators with an understanding of the ways that current and emerging technologies can be used to facilitate teaching, learning and managing instruction. Discussions will focus on issues, trends and current uses of technology in K-12 education. Lab sessions will focus upon gaining experience on IBM compatible or Macintosh computers, learning software applications with Microsoft Office, evaluating educational software, designing technology-enhanced lessons and utilizing telecommunications for K-12 curriculum integration. This is an introductory course and is specifically focused on educators wanting a hands-on approach to learning new technology skills.

CE 5140 Electronic Portfolio Development and Assessment - 3 credits
This course is designed to investigate the principles of assessment educational technology that relate to the design, development and assessment of electronic portfolios. Students will learn about the history, types, components, process, delivery, presentation and assessment of electronic portfolios. Student will be expected to define the assessment approach, construct an electronic portfolio and collaboratively design assessment tools that will be used to evaluate electronic portfolios. Additional areas of study in the course may include the influence of educational policy on the implementation of electronic portfolios, the role of the electronic portfolios in professional development and recertification, or innovate technologies used in electronic portfolio development.

CE 5150 Making Multimedia Meaningful - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide K-12 educators with in-depth, hands-on experiences with multimedia technology and the power it brings to student learning. Educators will discover how multimedia tools enhance project-based learning and authentic assessment while: (1) producing a multimedia presentation based on an integrated curriculum theme; (2) using computers, information technology and telecommunications for powerful teaching and assessment of student work; and (3) creating a project through teamwork with new technologies. As educators explore the significance of student-centered learning and teacher as coach, they will see how these new paradigms for teaching connect to their classrooms and schools.

CE 5160 Teaching and Learning in a Networked Classroom - 3 credits
The evolution of the World Wide Web from what is being called Web 1.0 to Web 2.0 has brought about a new way of teaching and learning in this digital age. The use of Web 2.0 tools such as blogs, wikis, podcasting, videocasting, and a host of other free tools are allowing educators to connect to knowledge and each other like never before. Learners will gain hands-on experiences with Web 2.0 tools and explore the learning theory that supports their use a networked classroom environment.

CE 5180 De signing and Implementing Network Technology - 3 credits
This course provides an understanding of LAN and WAN networking architectures. Students will learn the theory behind LANs and WANs and how to design both types of networks. LAN and WAN integration is stressed throughout the course. Some of the LAN architectures that are covered include ETHERNET, Token Ring and FDDI. All major LAN and WAN protocols will be discussed, including protocol theory. The course provides a range of laboratory and hands-on assignments that teach students about theory as well as how to design and internet work LANs and WANs.

CE 5290 Managing Technology in the School Environment - 3 credits
This course is an introduction to the technical features of information technology, especially hardware, software and network systems, used in educational settings. An examination of the responsibilities, knowledge and skills required of the school technology coordinator, including utilizing operating systems and applications to increase productivity, efficiency and computer health. Specific topics will include network planning and construction, client-server relationships, hardware configuration and placement, software deployment and imaging, print and file services, Internet connectivity, anti-virus measures, staffing and outsourcing, and planning.

CE 5310 21st Century Teaching and Learning - 3 credits
Educators need to integrate technology into their curriculum to transform student learning and meet the goals of the 21st Century. To succeed in today's information-driven academic environment, students need to know how to find, use, manage, evaluate and convey information efficiently and effectively. This includes not only knowledge of technology, but the ability to use critical-thinking skills to solve problems within a technological environment. Teachers wrap 21st Century Literacy skills into lesson content using a variety of strategies. This course helps educators plan and assess effective technology teaching methods, incorporate technology into any discipline, and develop key accountability and assessment strategies.

CE 5320 Web Enhanced Classroom - 3 credits
The Web-Enhanced Classroom is a six week course that uses technology to enhance traditional face-to-face (f2f) instruction. Online material is viewed as an extension of the classroom, and traditional lectures or classroom activities are linked with enhancements such as virtual tours, WebQuests, real-time information, maps, pictures, streaming video, audio clips, and open source course components. Web-extended classrooms allow learning to happen in an interesting and exciting way.

CE 5330 Online Extended Teaching - 3 credits
A hybrid course combines face-to-face instruction and web-or computer-based learning. Common features of hybrid courses will be explored including the delivery of the syllabus, effective online lectures, readings and assignments on web pages; discussions and presentations through online message boards, e-mail and chat; interactive tutorials and labs; and on-line assessments. By taking advantage of web-enhance instruction, less in-class time can be spent on mundane tasks and more time can be spent on collaborative, flexible and meaningful activities that incorporate all student learning styles.

CE 5340 Web 2.0, Collaborative Instruction - 3 credits
Web-technologies are shaping education in ways that have only been dreamed about before the advent of Web 2.0. The new web enhances teaching practices and student learning because new tools allow the user to publish and interact in ways never before possible. In Web 2.0 learners become consumers of information and need to become critical readers and viewers, ready to hit the edit button, in the age of new literacies. Educators must teach and model methods in which ideas and products can be published on the Internet. Web 2.0 provides the ability to work collaboratively across the virtual environment enhancing literacies such as communication skills and global awareness which has the effect of bringing down classroom walls.

CE 5350 Capstone: Becoming an Online Teacher - 3 credits
Moving from teaching in a face to face environment to teaching students online is not simply a matter of changing mediums; it also means changing instructional methodologies. In this six week course, participants will have the opportunity to experience online teaching by partnering with an online master teacher in an established middle or high school online course. Through observation, reflection and actively participating in the online classroom environment the participant will first partner with the master teacher to deliver instruction, and then will fully assume online classroom responsibilities.

CE 5540 Computers, Curriculum and Change - 3 credits
Computers have transformed how people learn, work and lay. Issues of philosophy, ethics, funding and training have spawned new realms of controversy. This course examines these controversies in light of current educational practice. Topics include equitable use, technology planning, curriculum change, funding issues, learning theory, professional development and pop culture.

CE 5560 Special Topics in Computer Education - 1-3 credits
This course provides an in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course is taught by a specialist within the field being studied or, as an alternative methodology, a faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

CE 5580 Special Topics in Web-Based Learning - 3 credits
This course explores the integration of technology across various disciplines and topics. Instruction is offered in an asynchronous format. Action research projects, based on instructor approval, are assigned and reviewed through an independent guided learning contract. Projects, readings and Web links are assigned based on research topic and discipline. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated.

CE 5700 Leadership in Educational Technology - 3 credits
This course is designed to enable the educational leader to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to provide solid instructional leadership through research, decision making and modeling. Today's instructional leader must understand the importance and role of various technologies and how the financial expenses relate to human collateral such as professional time and energy spent creating budgets, scheduling, connecting with colleagues and evaluating staff. Credible technology leadership in today's schools includes the ability to model technology use in order to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position with the highest level of ethical and legal standards.

CE 5800 Practicum in Educational Computing - 1-3 credits
This course is designed to allow students to pursue, in depth, a personal interest in the field of educational computing. Students working with a faculty advisor will design and carry out an individual project that applies the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to a real problem in their home district. Projects, which will vary with individual student interest, may consist of original research, curriculum development, programming original courseware, etc. The final report must be approved by the faculty advisor. Offered according to demand. Prerequisite: ED 5030.

CE 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities is offered through independent study. This is an opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Adult Learning

AL 5060 Psychology of Adulthood - 3 credits
This course takes a life-span developmental approach to adulthood in contemporary American society and includes the major theoretical perspectives regarding developmental transitions and age-related tasks. The course seeks to acquaint the student with seven broad themes of adult development: (1) theory, (2) research,(3) changes that occur within oneself throughout adulthood—physical, cognitive, health, social, (4) personality characteristics, (5) meaning in life, (6) stages and pointers for a successful journey, (7) death and dying. Students use their own life experiences as a context for creating understanding in these seven areas.

AL 5070 Learning in Adulthood - 3 credits
The course focuses on the nature and process of learning in adulthood, especially in formal learning situations in business, industry, adult basic education and adult higher education. Also emphasizes the concept of learning how to learn and the ways in which adults function in independent learning situations. We will examine theory, research and practice from several different discipline perspectives to answer the question, "How do adults learn?"

AL 5080 Teaching Adults - 3 credits
This course builds on adult learning theory and examines the role of the instructor as the facilitator of learning. Major focus is on incorporating strategies for encouraging active learning, collaboration, self-directed learning and self assessment by learners into a variety of learning situations. Class participants will be involved in demonstrating teaching methodologies and receiving feedback from group members.

AL 5090 Program Design and Evaluation - 3 credits
This course addresses a broad spectrum of program development ranging from an individual course to a complete program of major learning activities conducted over a period of time. Participants will design programs based on their own special interests, for example, adult higher education, business and industry training, adult basic education, etc. Major emphasis will also be placed on designing program evaluations tailored to meet specified goals.

AL 5130 Educating for Adult Literacy - 3 credits
This course examines current theory and best practice related to adults' development of functional literacy skills. The purpose of this course is to offer useful hands-on experiences and strategies for teaching literacy skills as well as the theoretical background and relevant research in the literacy field that will assist in understanding and appreciating the problems of adults with limited literacy. Understanding the problem of illiteracy requires knowledge about the sociological effects of schooling, the effects of poor education, issues of resistance to education, learner motivation, and the physiological, psychological and societal barriers and incentives related to the successful development of literacy skills.

AL 5140 The Learning Workplace - 3 credits
This course deals with the professional learning needs and priorities of the workplace. It examines the variety of ways in which employees and their managers gain new knowledge and skills as part of their professional growth. Particular emphasis is given to the concept of the learning organization: its characteristics, how the concept of "learning organization" is implemented in different types of organizations, the benefits of a learning organization to both the employee and the organization, and the role that the professional educator or trainer plays in building a learning organization. Also included is the role knowledge management plays in the development of the learning organization.

AL 5150 Learning and Teaching Styles - 3 credits
This course examines the concept of learning style, or cognitive style, in relation both to teaching and learning. Participants will take learning style inventories as part of the class and will be involved in practical applications of learning style concepts through the creation of learning activities and assignments geared to the particular audience they teach. Emphasis will be on adolescent and adult learning but will be applicable to all levels and ages. In addition, teaching styles will also be examined.

to top of page

Project Adventure

PA 5560 Special Topics: Project Adventure - 1-4 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern related to adventure-based programs. Some of the range of topics include: adventure in the classroom, leadership skills, advanced skills and standards, adventure based counseling, approaches to prevention and early intervention, adventure programming, community partnerships and expedition training. This course is open to MEd and MBA students.

to top of page

Experiential Education

EE 5110 Adventure Basics - 3 credits
The Adventure Basics workshop is designed to model the delivery of a condensed but carefully sequenced challenge course curriculum. Participants will learn both the basic technical skills of operating a challenge course as well as the facilitation skills essential to sequencing a program to maximize outcomes with participants. Adventure Basics provides an important first step for both understanding the flow and interplay of a group experience and for learning the skills to run an effective challenge course education program.

EE 5120 Advanced Technical Challenge Course Skills: Beyond Basics - 2 credits
Beyond Basics is an advanced workshop designed to help the adventure practitioner acquire the requisite skills to effectively facilitate a low and high challenge course program. Emphasis will be on developing a deeper understanding of challenge course systems and cultivating a critical eye for safety. Some of the specific skills covered in this workshop are as follows: knot-tying, proper use of equipment, belay techniques, leading edge climbing, and basic rescue procedures.

EE 5130 Building your Repertoire - 2 credits
Participants will complete 3 of the following one day workshops: Games for Any Space, No Props No Problem, Metaphors for Change, 10 Props, 100 Activities, or Teachable Moments; and complete a resource book of activities and facilitation tools that fit their professional practice. These workshops present a variety of experiential based activities focused on problem-solving, communication skills development, asset building and reflection. Participants should also gain an understanding of the foundations of experiential education and the philosophy of learning and community building through play.

EE 5140 Experiential Education and Differentiated Instruction - 2 credits
This course gives teachers new perspectives, tools and techniques for recognizing the varying learning styles and needs of their students, enabling them to design lessons that better engage all of the learners in their classroom. In an interactive collaborative learning environment participants will explore their own learning styles, how learning style impacts outcomes, and work with peers to develop differentiated lesson plans for their classrooms. Teachers will gain ideas, tools and specific activities for empowering students to take more control over their learning.

EE 5150 Experiential Group Facilitation: Beyond Basics - 2 credits
This workshop offers educators and group facilitators from diverse settings an opportunity to gain practical skills in group facilitation and develop and refine their facilitation style. In a co-creative environment facilitators will explore the art of facilitation and practice their facilitation skills. Participants will leave with a variety of practical activities, strategies, and tools that will enhance their practice as a facilitator. Through hands on program design and implementation practice, reflection and input from peers, facilitators will gain new insights, resources and tap into their strengths as an educator. Participants will leave with practical tools to enhance their practice as facilitators.

EE 5160 The Experiential Learning Cycle - 2 credits
In this series of interactive workshops: Adventures in Learning and Teaching, Activities for Academic Success and Teachable Moments, educators will explore tools and ideas for engaging learners in three critical aspects of experiential learning: creating a positive environment for learning, engaging learners in meaningful experiences that relate to core academic content, and reflective learning. Participants will earn 2 credits through completion of the three workshops and an experiential curriculum design project that relates to their professional practice.

EE 5170 Introduction to Low Challenge Course Elements - 2 credits
The course is designed as an introductory experience intended to model a condensed but carefully sequenced challenge course curriculum. Participants will learn both the technical skills of operating a low challenge course as well as facilitator skills essential to the operation of an experiential education program. Introduction to Low Challenge Course Elements provides an important first step for both understanding the flow and interplay of a group experience and for learning the skills to run an effective adventure learning and challenge course program.

EE 5180 Managing an Adventure Program - 2 credits
Managing an Adventure Program is designed to help adventure professionals manage an adventure education program and its many facets and details. The course is intended for anyone who has primary responsibility for the management of a challenge course site and/or adventure education programs at their school, camp or business setting. In addition to helping the challenge course professional learn essential management skills; the workshop also focuses upon improving one's analysis and judgment capabilities.

EE 5190 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic in the area of experiential education theory, research, inquiry, or implementation pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of Experiential Education. Consent of a faculty supervisor and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Education

ED 5000 Social Behavior in a Diverse Society - 3 credits
Seeks to examine the manner in which the behavior, feelings or thoughts of one individual are influenced by the behavior and/or characteristics of others. Topics to be considered include social perception, attitudes, gender, social cognition, conflict, social influence, intercultural awareness, prejudice, discrimination, aggression and group behavior. Fall, spring and summer.

ED 5005 Social Psychology and Mythology across Cultures - 3 credits
This course will provide an in-depth study of the social/ cultural basis of behavior and examine the role of mythology as a vehicle for intrapersonal and interpersonal understanding. The major theoretical, empirical and applied lines of work in the following topics in contemporary social psychology will be explored: social cognition, interpersonal perception, attitudes, stereotyping and prejudice, the self, and interpersonal and group relations. Mythology will be employed as a mechanism for cross-cultural comparison and as a unifying construct to enhance multicultural understanding.

ED 5010 Philosophy, Ethics and Education - 3 credits
A study of the historical, philosophical and social-philosophic foundations of education. Emphasis is placed upon the ideas of the classical, medieval, Enlightenment and post-Enlightenment periods that have influenced types of American educational systems relative to their mission and purpose. Analysis of how these systems have defined ethics and the characteristics of the virtuous person.

ED 5030 Research Design - 3 credits
Knowledge and understanding of the commonly accepted research designs. Study of research instruments and statistics used in educational research. Wide reading in various types of research design. Critical analysis of research design.

ED 5040 Education and Society - 3 credits
Explores the elements of sociology, history and social psychology, the interaction of which produces the American public school. Reviews the social structure of the United States and its influence on curriculum, power hierarchies, the disadvantaged child, ascribed status groups, social roles, social perception, and beliefs and attitudes.

ED 5060 Theories of Learning and Cognitive Development - 3 credits
An overview of current theories concerning the brain, development and learning. Analysis of developmental concepts from birth through adolescence and adulthood. Discussion of language acquisition, thinking and learning styles, multiple intelligence and creativity. Topics include teaching, learning and assessment issues related to cultural diversity, technology and learning differences.

ED 5080 Instructional Strategies and Curriculum Design - 3 credits
Focuses on providing students interested in elementary or secondary teaching with prerequisite skills necessary for successful student teaching. Students will demonstrate competence in: knowledge of curriculum, lesson and interdisciplinary unit planning, organizing and delivering instruction, adjusting instruction for diverse learning styles, individual needs and cultures, evaluating outcomes of instruction and use of a variety of classroom management strategies. Seminars will address issues related to teaching and emphasize student reflection and evaluation of their teaching. All students will be required to complete directed observation, participation and teaching in an assigned school. Discussions of ethical practices and professionalism will permeate the course. Prerequisite: ED 5270.

ED 5090 Crucial Issues in Education - 1-3 credits
Explores significant problems affecting contemporary education. Focuses on identification of the problems, research and recommendations leading to solutions. Major emphasis on research elements. Unscheduled.

ED 5140 Assessment: Principles and Practices - 3 credits
The emphasis throughout this course is on the practical application of appraisal techniques in education. Critical concepts related to assessment and the integration of assessment into teaching and learning include: the role of assessment in teaching, how validity is determined, factors influencing reliability, avoiding stereotypes, understanding and using numerical data, using standardized assessment to improve instruction, ideas and strategies for mining and reporting assessment data.

ED 5150 Individual Intelligence Testing - 3 credits
Concepts of intelligence. Introduction to psychological tests. Students give, score and write interpretations for the Stanford-Binet, WISC and WAIS. Basically intended for special class teachers, administrators and guidance personnel. May be taken as PS 5150. Unscheduled.

ED 5180 Collaborative Action Research - 1-3 credits
A course for teaching/administrative practitioners in which a local educational problem is examined from the standpoint of how it can best be studied and solved. A blueprint for solving the problem is prepared including statement and purpose, scope, assumptions/hypotheses, limitations and essential definitions. Course culmination will include collection of data, analysis of that data, conclusions and recommendation preparation that follow appropriate form and style.

ED 5190 Introduction to Grant Proposal Writing - 3 credits
Students will be introduced to the art of grant proposal writing for public and private funding sources. Students will develop a grant proposal as part of the course. Sources of funding will be provided. Offered according to demand.

ED 5210 Graduate Practicum - 1-6 credits
This is a supervised practicum experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies in New Hampshire. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience through applying knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. Commitment includes a negotiated number of hours per week and participation in seminars. Supervision is by the institution or agency concerned, and by Plymouth faculty. Students anticipating more than three hours of credit should confer early in their program with the department chair to free up sufficient blocks of time. Permission of advisor, department chair and Associate Vice President is required.

ED 5270 Foundations of Teaching - 3 credits
An introduction to the teaching profession and the realities of teaching in today's schools. A series of seminars includes such topics as the history and structure of education, societal issues, the role of the teacher, instructional planning, legal rights and responsibilities of students and teachers, learning styles and effective teaching. A school observation/participation experience of a minimum of 30 hours is required.

ED 5430 Internship in College Teaching - 1-3 credits
Supervised internship in the development of a first teaching field under the mentorship of an assigned faculty member. Development of a learning framework for teaching at the post-secondary level with attention to models of instruction, learning styles and needs of the college student and non-traditional learner. Presentation of course syllabus, course topics and concept lectures, course projects, tests and related materials. May be repeated with permission of instructor. Fall and offered according to demand.

ED 5500 Special Topics in Education - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

ED 5570 Classroom Intervention and Special Education Strategies - 3 credits
Analysis of models and dynamics involved in planning, teaching and evaluating environments for special needs students. An overview of special education, characteristics of individuals with disabilities, individualized educational plans, functional behavior assessment, practical teaching strategies and the New Hampshire Special Education Process and Policies. An observation component of 15 hours will be required of all students not presently in a school or teaching situation.

ED 5580 Individual Re search in Education - 3 credits
A research project that requires students to demonstrate the ability to synthesize salient elements from the core, professional and specialty areas. In essence, the student's research should be the natural result of the focus and direction of planned study. The project should emanate from the area of specialization and incorporate relevant concepts learned through coursework and experience. Using sound research practices, a student should illustrate ability to interpret, reflect, summarize and conclude. The written product of this effort will be defended in a seminar before faculty and the student's peers. Students should contact the advisor to plan for this project. Topic approval is needed from the advisor and the Associate Vice President.

ED 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

ED 5950 Graduate Thesis - 1-9 credits
The thesis carries six graduate credits which will, after careful consideration of thesis content, substitute for coursework of six credits in the program option. Students select a topic for study in consultation with their program advisor and related faculty. A time-line, thesis publication and defense are outlined. Three copies of the thesis must be submitted with a bound copy that remains on file in the Graduate Studies office.

ED 5960 Internship in Teacher Education - 1-9 credits
Student teaching for students in the Master of Education Elementary or Secondary Education programs. Students must have all course work for the degree, including any required undergraduate prerequisites, completed before taking this course.

ED 5980 Puppetry in Education Workshop - 1 credit
The goal of this one-credit, practicum-based experience is to introduce the student to the educational value of puppetry in the classroom. Basic puppetry skills (construction and manipulation of simple hand, rod and educational puppets) will be developed and discussed with an emphasis on integration into school curriculum. Offered according to demand.

ED 5990 Philosophy and Ethics - 3 credits
A survey of various positions concerning the question of ethics. Major emphasis will be placed on how ethical judgments are to be justified from a philosophical foundation. Emphasis will also be placed on the ethics associated with world religions such as Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism. Ethical systems related to professional practice will also be surveyed. Offered according to demand.

ED 6100 Curriculum Integration and Performance -Based Assessment - 3 credits
This course will focus on assessing curricula and assessment practices that correlate with state and national standards. Students will be introduced to a range of curriculum models. Various strategies and the administration of performance-based assessment will be studied. This course is designed for students in the Elementary and Secondary Teacher Certification programs.

ED 6120 Connecting Reading, Writing and Mathematics in the Elementary Classroom - 3 credits
This course will focus on the integration of reading and writing with mathematics. Methods and activities for integration will be explored. Students will be involved in a comprehensive study of ways to use reading and writing to strengthen the mathematics curriculum. Students will develop their own integrated unity plan to use in their classroom. Also presented as RL 5100.

ED 6900 Graduate Capstone Project - 1-12 credits
A culminating, supervised project or practicum experience in a work environment or cooperating institution or agency. The purpose is to apply knowledge learned in previous coursework to the work environment or through an approved project. The candidate works with a field supervisor on site and presents their final product to PSU faculty. Students who anticipate working on their project for more than one term should register for the appropriate number of credits in each term so that they remain registered throughout the course of the project. Students should anticipate planning approximately 40 hours of work for each credit to be earned and the number of credits to be earned in total must be approved by their advisor and noted on their program contract. The candidate must submit a Graduate Capstone Project form with their registration and the Capstone Project must be approved by the advisor and Associate Vice President.

to top of page

Early Childhood Education

ER 5750 Individual Research in Early Childhood - 1-3 credits
Designed so that students may pursue in-depth a personal interest in the field of early childhood. Students working with a faculty advisor carry out the research from design to completion. The final product must be approved by the project director. Offered according to demand.

ER 5910 Independent Study in Early Childhood - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required. Offered according to demand.

to top of page

Philosophy

to top of page

Special Education

SE 5190 Educational Testing - 3 credits
This course will focus on administering, scoring, interpreting and reporting on achievement, special skill and diagnostic tests used in special education and school psychology. The emphasis will be on diagnosis and prescriptive writing. It is restricted to special education and school psychology students.

SE 5200 IntroduCtion to Gifted and Talented - 3 credits
Introduces students to the characteristics and the identification procedures of giftedness and creativity. Problems of underachievement, the culturally different and instructional procedures within the classroom are researched. Offered according to demand.

SE 5300 Special Education Law - 3 credits
This three-credit course will give participants a greater understanding of both federal and New Hampshire special education law. Time will be spent on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This course is designed and intended for teachers and special education administrators. You do not need to be a law student to succeed in this class. There is a heavy emphasis in this course on theory to practice, "practical news you can use" the next day in your profession. We will review the most current cases and trends in special education law, analyze cases and learn how to research both statutory and case law.

SE 5560 Special Topics in Special Education - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor. Unscheduled.

SE 5561 Identification of Emotional Behavior Disorder - 3 credits
This course provides an in-depth examination and general overview of the study of behavior disorders of children and youth in educational, clinical and social settings. The focus of this course will be on the development and implementation of strategies for children and youth with emotional and behavioral concerns associated with atypical behaviors. Information will be presented regarding parent counseling, precision teaching and other strategies. Basic concepts include: (1) the nature, extent and history of the problem, and conceptual approaches to it; (2) the identification and assessment of the problem(s) at hand; (3) causal factors; (4) the distinct features and elements that define and distinguish disordered emotions and behaviors; (5) effectively teaching students with emotional and behavioral disorders.

SE 5562 Functional Assessment - 3 credits
The purpose of this course is to develop comprehensive knowledge, skill level and proficiency in the use and interpretation of functional assessments. The course will discuss at length behavioral support plans, interventions and a series of resources available for implementing the behavioral plans.

SE 5563 PBIS: School-wide Approaches for All Students - 3 credits
This course provides an in-depth examination of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) with emphasis on school-wide approaches designed to enhance school climate and the emotional well being of all students. Students will learn how to create and nurture a leadership team of stakeholders who are responsible for school-wide implementation as well as evidence-based strategies for improving behavior and academic achievement. Topics include developing school-wide expectations, creating a behavior matrix, designing teaching scripts to address pro social behaviors, creating a school-wide reinforcement system, determining office vs. classroom referrals, designing a data-based system for behavior, and evaluating the universal system using data-based decision making and utilizing data for improving practice.

SE 5564 PBIS: Comprehensive Approaches for Students with Intense and Chronic Needs - 3 credits
This course exposes students to comprehensive, multisystem approaches designed to enhance the emotional well being and reduce the problem behavior of students with intense and chronic needs, including those identified as emotionally disturbed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Using the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) approach to systems change, students will learn how to develop and implement, in collaboration with families and community partners, a process for addressing the behavior and functioning of students who are not experiencing success with universal and targeted interventions. Topics include wraparound planning for multiple life domains, interagency coordination, family involvement, community involvement, methods for changing behavior, affect and cognitions, and evaluating the intensive system using data-based decision making.

SE 5565 PBIS Summer Institute - 3 credits
Intensive week-long institute of workshops and presentations from the training team at CEBIS, and experts in the field of emotionally behavior-disordered students. The purpose of the 40-hour institute is to continue the ongoing professional development activities of the participants on processes and strategies involved in PBIS.

SE 5566 PBIS: Targeted Approaches for Students at Risk - 3 credits
This course addresses targeted methods designed to enhance the emotional well being and reduce the problem behavior of students who are at risk for school failure but who do not necessarily qualify for special education services. Using the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) approach to systems change, students will learn how to create and nurture a problem-solving team of professionals who are responsible for developing evidence-based strategies for improving the behavior and academic achievement of students for whom universal, school-wide approaches have been insufficient. Topics include completing functional behavioral assessments of targeted students, creating behavior intervention plans based on functional behavioral assessments, designing and implementing targeted group interventions aimed at reducing problem behavior and increasing pro-social behavior and academic achievement of targeted students, and evaluating the targeted system using data-based decision making for improving practice.

SE 5568 PBIS: Facilitation Specialist as Coach and Resource Person - 3 credits
This course provides students with the collaboration and consultation skills necessary to enhance the emotional well being and reduce the problem behavior of all students in schools, including those identified as emotionally disturbed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Within the context of a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) model, students will learn how to be a school-based PBIS coach in order to support the systems change process in their schools. Topics include the process of systems change, collaboration with families and community agencies, team development and building, data-based decision making, and nurturing the PBIS initiative.

SE 5570 Autism and Spectrum Disorders - 3 credits
This course will deal with the specifics of cognitive impairment focusing on mental retardation, autism, Asperger, PDD, communication disorders and all their subgroups. Specific definitions, special education rights and legislation will be discussed in terms of these special populations. Assessment of intellectual functioning, assessment procedures, classroom adaptations, behaviors, causes and prevention, developing curriculum and goals, independent life skills, transitions to career and functional life skills will be discussed in detail.

SE 5571 Identifying Students with Autism and Spectrum Disorders - 3 credits
The learner will gain knowledge related to the needs of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and will collaborate with teams to assess students to determine the existence of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Learners will incorporate the results and recommendations of educational assessments and develop appropriate treatment plans and a system for monitoring case management of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

SE 5572 Developmental Goal Writing and Evidence-Based Teaching Strategies for Students with Autism - 3 credits
In this class, Developmental Goal Writing and Evidence-Based Teaching Strategies for Students with Autism, learners will gain knowledge related to developmental theory and the use of empirical developmental intervention as a means of collecting data. The learner will develop measurable goals, create easy-to-use data collection sheets and organize data efficiently. The learners will increase their understanding of evidence-based teaching strategies and interventions designed to positively effect the learning outcome of the student with autism and will incorporate this knowledge into applied teaching strategies.

SE 5573 Data Analysis for Autism and Spectrum Disorders - 3 credits
The learner will analyze and interpret raw data collected; use analyzed information to formulate new developmentally appropriate goals and objectives.

SE 5581 Technology for Diverse Learners - 3 credits
This course provides an overview of two federal laws (IDEA and NCLB) and examines the relationship between the Universal Design for Learning model and assistive technology. Students will be provided a hands-on experience on the assistive technology tools and online resources that can provide students with learning disabilities a set of effective learning strategies for reading, writing, organizing, note taking, researching and presenting. Opportunities will be provided for students to develop classroom activities and curriculum planning guidelines for integrating assistive technology tools into a standards-based curriculum.

SE 5600 Language and Learning Disabilities - 3 credits
This introductory course will cover the following areas: definition of LD, reading problems, language deficits both oral and written, mathematics underachievement, social skills deficits, attention and behavioral problems, academic achievement and comorbidity with other disabilities, prevalence, environmental factors, standardized, criterion referenced, informal reading, curriculum-based measurement and testing. Educational approaches such as explicit instruction, content enhancement and placement alternatives will be explored. Current issues and future trends in the field of LD will be discussed.

SE 5601 Advanced Psycho Educational Assessment of Learning Disabilities and Exceptionalities - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide the student with advanced diagnostic skills in learning disabilities. Participants are expected to have some prior knowledge of standardized assessment practices, learning challenges of children, teaching methods and curriculum in general and special education. A profile of specific learning disability characteristics will be presented with corresponding assessment methods including formal assessment, responsiveness to intervention models, diagnostic prescriptive teaching and remedial programs. This course will present the above topics paying special attention to focusing on placing them within the context of the NCATE/CEC standards below. Specific evaluation methods to include standardized assessment (Woodcock-Johnson Psychoeducational Battery-III, Wechsler Individual Achievement Test - II, Responsiveness to Intervention, Curriculum Based Measurement, Visual - Aural Digit Span Test, Jordan Left-Right Reversal Test, Test of Written Language-3, CTOPP, etc.)

SE 5750 Individual Research in Special Education - 1-3 credits
Designed so that students may pursue in-depth a personal interest in the field of special education. Students, working with a faculty advisor, carry out the research from design to completion. The final product must be approved by the project director. Unscheduled.

SE 5760 Collaboration, Consultation and Leadership in Special Education - 3 credits
This course is designed to assist participants in examining the nature of collaboration in organizations, the consultation process and essential leadership skills in special education. Students will learn about the nature of collaboration and examine examples of effective collaboration skills, as well as participate in guided practice of those skills. Emphasis will be given to concepts of intervention, management models and an analysis of the variety of special education needs.

SE 5765 Working with Families and Children: Ethical and Legal Issues - 3 credits
Focuses on the ethics of special education laws, regulations, and policies. Students will use case studies of ethical dilemmas in order to understand the complex issues underlying such issues as inclusion, labeling,  IDEA, Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) compliance, due process,  parent involvement,  awareness of ethical  responsibilities,  ethical decision making,  confidentiality, record keeping, and informed consent. The spirit versus the letter and the morality of special education will also be explored. A special focus will be on transacting an ethic of care in schools as well as best practices that promote democratic decision making, advocacy and the empowerment of parents.

SE 5770 Behavioral Disorders in School Aged Children - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide teachers with increased understanding of the needs of children who display maladaptive behaviors. The course will investigate new interventions, strategies, social diversity, classroom groupings and gangs, bullying, criminality, function based assessments, and pathology.

SE 5800 Practicum in Special Education - 1-6 credits
A supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience through applying knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. Commitment includes a negotiated number of hours per week. Supervision is done by the institution or agency concerned and by Plymouth faculty.

SE 5810 Practicum in Learning Disabilities - 3 credits
A student will provide direct service and experiential learning with learning-disabled students in a classroom or school setting under the supervision of an experienced special education professional. The focus of the practicum will be on identification, assessment and remediation of learning problems. Student will need to demonstrate assessment report writing, be able to develop IEPs and be able to implement and follow interventions plans. Total hours of practicum will be 100-300 hours, depending on present level of functioning, past experience and present employment or role. This field course will provide the student with specific key experiences in the role of learning disabilities specialist. This course will be structured to accommodate graduate candidates who have a variety of prior school experiences. Students who do not have extensive school experiences will be required to fulfill all the requirements. This practicum is centered around competency areas that are basic to learning disabilities. This field course serves as an exit check for completion of the Learning Disabilities Specialist concentration, thus leading to certification.

SE 5820 Practicum in Emotional Disabilities - 1-3 credits
A student will provide direct service and experiential learning to children with emotional disorders in a classroom or school setting under the supervision of an experienced special education professional. The focus of the practicum will be on identification, assessment and remediation of behavior problems. Student will need to demonstrate assessment report writing, be able to develop IEPs and be able to implement and follow intervention plans. Total hours of practicum will be 50 hours (50 hours per credit) depending on present level of functioning, past experience and present employment or role. The practicum will be repeatable for credit if a student requires more training or hours to complete their experience. This field course will provide the student with specific key experiences in the role of emotional behavioral specialist. This course will be structured to accommodate graduate candidates who have a variety of prior school experiences. Students who do not have extensive school experiences will be required to fulfill all the requirements. This practicum is centered on competency areas that are basic to emotional behavioral disorders. This field course serves as an exit check for completion of the Emotional Behavior Option thus leading to certification.

SE 5821 Internship Seminar - 1-9 credits
A supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience through applying knowledge learned in course work to the on-the-job situation. Commitment includes 12 hours per week within the school environment over 3 days, and one three hour seminar per month. Supervision is done by the cooperating school and overseen by Plymouth State University faculty.

SE 5910 Independent Study in Special Education - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

SE 6040 Curriculum Development in Special Education - 3 credits
This course is designed to assist candidates in acquiring the skills, knowledge and competencies necessary for curriculum development as it relates to special education and the general education curricula. Each participant will have the opportunity to examine models of curriculum-based assessment designed to generate better educational programs for students with disabilities. Each student will demonstrate an understanding of the instructional process with emphasis on students with disabilities. Keys to this understanding will include management considerations, instructional practices and evaluative and collaborative activities.

SE 7800 Special Educational Leadership Practicum - 3-6 credits
A collaborative supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience as a special education administrator through applying knowledge learned in coursework to on-the-job situations.

to top of page

Neurodevelopmental Approach to Teaching

ND 5000 Foundations of Neurodevelopmental Theory - 2 credits
This course is designed to build upon participants' existing knowledge of child development theories. In this course, the neurodevelopmental framework will be layered with child development theories to understand what a student can be expected to do at a given age (e.g., developmentally appropriate practice-DAP). Participants will become familiar with the eight neurodevelopmental learning functions of the brain, based on the work of Dr. Mel Levine, MD. They will practice the skill of observing for evidence of student learning strengths and weaknesses and link them to academic performance. Prerequisite: must be a practicing educator.

ND 5010 Effective Classroom Practice - 2 credits
This course is designed to build on participants' familiarity with the neurodevelopmental framework through exploration of their own neurodevelopmental profile. Participants will reflect on their own neurodevelopmental strengths and weaknesses, the affect of their learning profile on their ability to learn, and most importantly, how that particular combination of strengths and weaknesses, together with skill and knowledge can be used to positively influence their teaching practice.

ND 5020 Instructional Practice - 3 credits
This course will provide participants with a deeper understanding of practical ways to apply a neurodevelopmental approach to teaching and learning by examining the neurodevelopmental demands of curricula, lessons, and assessments. Participants will design and implement activities, lessons, and curricula that take into consideration students' specific learning needs. Prerequisite: ND 5000.

ND 5030 Collaborative Practices - 2 credits
This course will provide participants with a deeper understanding of practical ways to apply a neurodevelopmental approach to teaching and learning by looking at student work and addressing instructional dilemmas. Through the use of structured protocols, participants will work as a collaborative group to link observable evidence from student work samples to particular underlying neurodevelopmental functions. The process of Looking at Student Work will be used to inform participants about students as learners and identify specific strategies to support increased student achievement. Prerequisite: ND 5000 and ND 5110.

ND 5040 Authentic Data to Engage Student's Minds - 2 credits
This course will explore the research regarding student motivation and the neurodevelopmental sub-skills that support or undermine a student's school performance with particular focus on the role of attention in learning. Prerequisite: ND 5000, ND 5020, and ND 5050.

ND 5050 Attention and Memory in Learning - 2 credits
Attention and memory play key roles in learning. This course will provide an in-depth exploration of the components of attention and memory and specific impacts they have on learning. Participants will be introduced to ways to observe for breakdowns in memory and attention and instructional strategies to support completion of tasks. Prerequisite: ND 5000 and ND 5020.

ND 5060 Collaborative Instructional Practices - 3 credits
This course will provide participants with a deeper understanding of students' different approaches to learning and how to make responsive adjustments to instruction based on observation and ongoing assessment. Participants will also learn about the nature of collaboration through examination of exemplary models. They will participate in guided instruction using protocols designed to enhance the effectiveness of collaborative practices. Participants will then apply this knowledge collaboratively to address their own questions regarding school related issues and student learning. Prerequisite: ND 5000.

ND 5100 Reconsidering Referrals to Support Teams - 3 credits
This course will help educators involved in school-based support teams to engage in critical refinement of their current student referral process including: forms; time-lines; meeting protocols; and follow-up procedures using a neurodevelopmental approach. School teams will work collaboratively on creating and implementing student analysis tools and procedures. Teams will examine systems for working efficiently and effectively to identify the needs of all students referred for support, and practical strategies to help them succeed, including ways to leverage student's strengths and areas of interest. Session Note: This workshop is designed for teams of 3-6 educators (including at least one regular classroom teacher and one of the following: administrator, guidance counselor, school psychologist, integration specialist, special educator, study skills teacher, 504 Coordinator). The course consists of a 3-day workshop and two additional full days for implementation follow-up, one on-site at participants' school.

ND 5110 New Coaches Institute - 3 credits
National School Reform Faculty "Critical Friends" are groups of educators committed to improving teaching practices and student outcomes through collaborative work. Critical Friends Groups (CFGs) can be found in schools throughout the U.S; in many schools, CFGs serve as an alternative to administrative supervision. The key to the success of CFG work is the development of an intimate, yet professional community, where teachers share their dilemmas and push one another to reflect and change. The facilitator or "coach" of the group structures the meeting through carefully selected activities or "protocols" which enable the "critical" work to occur in an atmosphere that is efficient, productive and feels safe to each participating member. This workshop is designed to train future CFG coaches through facilitated CFG protocols and practice. Participants will be expected to go back to their home school settings and lead CFG work with their colleagues.

ND 5800 Practicum - 1-9 credits
The practicum will provide masters' candidates with the opportunity to document implementation and integration of the neurodevelopmental approach into their teaching practice. During practicum candidates will also be required to attend advanced seminars on relevant topics. Prerequisite: ND 5000, ND 5010, ND 5020, ND 5030, ND 5040, and ND 5050.

to top of page

English

EN 5000 Teacher Action Research - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide a background in qualitative classroom-based research. Students design a research project in which they find and frame a research question that they will investigate through interview, observations, participant observations and/or analysis of artifacts. They will write up and present the results of this limited study.

EN 5050 Theory and Practice in the Teaching of Writing Middle/Secondary - 6 credits This is a summer institute for teachers of grades K-16 sponsored by the Plymouth Writing Project. Teachers work on their own writing, conduct research into an aspect of teaching writing, participate in reflective practice and in critical teaching demonstrations. This is an intensive, full time, summer experience. Available through application only.

EN 5100 Using Film to Teach Literature in Secondary Schools - 3 credits
The study of the basic elements and techniques of filmmaking and the exploration of methods through which the study of film might be used in the literature class, primarily with the visual elements inherent in literature. The course will culminate with each student teaching a session on a scene from a film.

EN 5230 Teaching Literature: The Memoir - 3 credits
This course will focus on the memoir as a literary form. Students will read and discuss memoirs and devise a memoir unit for their classes.

EN 5240 Study of Language and Grammar - 3 credits
Selected reading and research in the nature and development of language, history of the English language, dialects, levels of uses and purposes of language. The structure of American English. Recent developments in language study.

EN 5300 Poetry Workshop for Teachers - 3 credits
This course is designed to help teachers develop their own poetry and to learn ways of working with poetry with their students. They will compile a portfolio of their own original poetry and design a poetry-writing program for use in their classes. They will also learn techniques for integrating the study of poetry throughout the curriculum.

EN 5320 Teaching Literature: The Short Story - 3 credits
This course focuses on critical reading of short fiction and how to approach discussion of story elements.

EN 5360 Fiction Writing Workshop for Teachers - 3 credits
This course is designed to help teachers develop their own fiction and to learn ways of working with their students. They will compile a portfolio of their own original fiction and design a fiction-writing program for use in their classes. They will also learn techniques for integrating the study of fiction throughout the curriculum.

EN 5400 Journalism Workshop - 3 credits
Students will learn how to edit and put together a small newspaper/magazine. They will learn how to edit and tailor stories to different news outlets. They will work to understand and to help their students to understand how the news media shape how they and their students think about the world.

EN 5450 Leadership in Writing - 3-6 credits
This is an advanced course for teachers who are ready to assume leadership positions relative to staff development in the teaching of writing. The course will provide an in-depth background in the teaching of writing, including process based teaching, planning for instruction, assessment, writing across the curriculum, staff development, and how to help teachers become reflective practitioners in all areas of the teaching of writing. Available through application only.

EN 5500 Topics in Teaching Literature - 1-3 credits
Various topics in literature at the graduate level, not covered in other English courses. May be repeated with different topics.

EN 5560 Topics in Teaching Writing - 1-3 credits
Various topics related to the teaching of writing not covered in other English courses. May be repeated with different topics.

EN 5600 Technical Writing Across Disciplines - 3 credits
This course is designed to encourage critical thought and to teach students to analyze and write for an audience whose technical understanding is less than the writer's own.

EN 5620 Promising Practices in the Teaching of Writing - 1-3 credits
An introduction to various promising practices in the teaching of writing. Participants will attend workshops and follow up sessions after applying promising practices in their classrooms. They will then write a culminating paper in which they reflect on their experience and what they have learned from implementing the practices with their students.

EN 5630 Writing Workshop for Teachers - 3 credits
Structure and implementation of classroom writing workshops, including conferences and portfolio assessment. Students will study writing process history and theory, and work with their own writing. They will create a personal literature anthology exploring their relationship to various literary genres. Analysis of student writing samples, evaluation criteria for writing and their implication for teaching will be discussed.

EN 5640 Theory and Practice: Teaching Writing at the Secondary Level - 3 credits
An introduction to methods and philosophies of the teaching of writing, with a focus on grades 5-12. Students will explore philosophical elements of a process/environmental approach to teaching writing for responsive teaching in a democratic and pluralistic society. They will use constructivist learning theory to set up and practice writing conferences and in-depth assessment of student writing, and have practiced using that assessment to guide instruction. Observation and participation in secondary or middle schools required.

EN 5750 Advanced Writing Workshop for Teachers: Editing and Publishing - 3 credits
This course is designed for teachers with some experience teaching writing using a process methodology, or those who have had training in that area. The course provides an opportunity for them to work at their own writing and to learn about the compilation of a literary anthology.

EN 5800 Internship in the Secondary School - 3 credits
This course involves the planning and implementation of a specific unit of study involving the teaching of writing in the secondary school. Students will design and implement the unit of study, which will end in a culminating event such as a public reading, a literary magazine, an oral history or travel writing project. Students should begin this course with a specific idea to develop into a unit with their classes.

EN 5830 Teaching Literature for Cultural Understanding - 1-3 credits
This course provides an introduction to the use of multicultural literature appropriate for K-12 classes to increase cultural understanding. Students will apply a spectrum of intercultural sensitivity as a guide for working with their students. The course involves the planning and implementation of a unit of study involving the teaching of multicultural literature in the K-12 school and integrating writing and the arts.

EN 5870 Teaching Literature in Secondary School - 3 credits
Instructional methods and materials used in teaching literature at the secondary (5-12) level. Observation and participation in local schools is required.

EN 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of English. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Health and Healing

HH 5560 Topics in Alternative Health and Healing - 3 credits
Topics in Alternative Health and Healing introduces the fundamental concepts of complementary and alternative health and wellness methods and practices. Participants will explore and study the psychophysiology of a wide variety of mind/body modalities and discuss the integration of these approaches with Western medicine.

HH 5570 Mindfulness Meditation: Theory and Practice - 3 credits
Mindfulness Meditation Theory and Practice examines the theoretical basis for the use of meditation as a healing tool. In a meditative retreat format, participants learn and practice various types of meditation such as body scan, sitting, walking, eating and music meditation. Extended periods of practice and interspersed with discussion, reflection, presentation and small group work.

HH 5590 Transpersonal Psychology - 3 credits
Transpersonal Psychology addresses aspects of mind and behavior that transcend individual ego and personal identity. This course considers the dimensions of consciousness, the implications of transpersonal experiences and the connection between psychology and spirituality. Class members gain an understanding of the fundamental assumptions underlying transpersonal theory and skills in applying theory to facilitate growth, health and wellbeing.

HH 5600 Body Centered Therapies - 3 credits
Body Centered Therapies provides an overview of multiple therapeutic approaches by examining such techniques as massage, therapeutic touch, rolfing, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, acupressure, Alexander Technique and other therapies.

HH 5610 The Circle of Life - 3 credits
The Circle of Life explores the life cycle from birth to the dying process and the ending of life, including issues concerning near-death experiences, how people die and the meaning of death. The course examines death at different ages and within various relationships, along with stages of grieving and strategies for coping.

HH 5620 Spiritual Health - 3 credits
Spiritual Health provides an opportunity to explore the role of the spiritual dimensions of wellness. A process of inquiry will help you better understand the spiritual dimension of self and the relationship of spirit to the health and healing process.

HH 5700 Creating Organizational Health - 3 credits
The course is designed as an intensive introduction to the theories, methods and tools for building wellness concepts into the strategic planning process of organizations. The class will define the future of wellness in the workplace evolving beyond mechanistic approaches to individual wellness and developing holistic principles leading to organizational health. At the completion of the course students will have an understanding of ways to institute a new health paradigm into organizational design.

HH 5820 Women as Leaders - 3 credits
This course challenges women to consider the cultures, climates and contexts that limit and support their capacities as leaders. Students will explore personal leadership styles, characteristics of effective leaders and strategies for developing themselves as leaders.

to top of page

Health Education

HL 5150 Eating Disorder Clinical - 1-3 credits
This clinical experience is a capstone course for those enrolled in the eating disorders certificate program. Students will be able to choose a focus on awareness, prevention and education experience or a clinical experience working in an eating disorders treatment facility for 120 hours.
Prerequisite: 12 credits of Eating Disorders certificate program.

HL 5160 Eating Disorders: Awareness, Prevention and Education - 3 credits
The focus of the course will be on increasing the student's knowledge of awareness, education, prevention and treatment of eating disorders. Discussion will include diagnostic classifications; causes of eating disorders; history, prevalence and treatment approaches to eating disorders; a discussion of a wellness/holistic approach to medical, nutritional and psychological therapies; special populations i.e. women, children, males, athletes; prevention programs; resources; the latest research and information on becoming a coordinator of Eating Disorder Awareness and Prevention Week.
Also presented as CO 5160.

HL 5170 Treatment Modalities for Eating Disorders - 3 credits
This course will be an in-depth study of the dynamics of eating disorders followed by an overview of the dominant counseling approaches used in eating disorders treatment and management. The focus will include diagnosis, psychological assessments, psychotherapeutic and other interventions, as well as clinical issues encountered in treatment.
Prerequisite: CO/HL 5160. Also presented as CO 5170.

HL 5180 Nutrition Fundamentals and Counseling in the Recovery of Eating Disorders - 3 credits
This course will focus on nutritional education issues relevant to those interested in health and wellness for the general population, as well as those working with eating disorders clients. Discussion will include basic concepts of nutrition science and nutritional needs, evaluation of weight management methods, investigation of food facts and fallacies, different diet plans, i.e. vegetarian, sports nutrition. Information will be presented on how the nutritionist, counselor or health educator applies nutritional information to their clients or students. The course will also include how to present information in nutritional counseling and education for the eating disorder client.
Prerequisite: CO/HL 5160 or permission of instructor. Also presented as CO 5180.

HL 5190 Medical and Physiological Aspects of Eating Disorders - 3 credits
The focus of the course will be to increase the student's knowledge of the effects eating disorders have on the body's medial systems and the physiologic function. Discussion will include diagnostic criteria and a multidisciplinary, integrative approach to assessment and management of each disorder. Emphasis will be placed on the evaluation of each body system, as well as prevention and treatment of medical complications.
Prerequisite: CO/HL 5160. Also presented as CO 5190.

HL 5200 Aging and Physical Activity - 3 credits
This course will be an examination of neurological, physiological, and psychosocial changes occurring during middle and late adulthood that can affect health, as well as implications for the planning, implementation and evaluation of physical activity programs for the adult population.

HL 5300 Health Behavior: Theory and Application - 3 credits
Provides graduate students an introduction to health behavioral and social science theories, premising that health behavior and behavior change programs are most beneficial when provided within a theoretical framework. Social and behavioral science theory, research and practice as related to promoting and maintaining health behaviors will be emphasized.

HL 5560 Special Topics in Health Education - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor. Offered according to demand.

HL 5750 Individual Re search: Health Education - 1-3 credits
Designed so that students may pursue, in depth, a personal interest in the field of allied health. Students, working with a faculty advisor, carry out research from design to completion. The final product must be approved by the faculty advisor and/or faculty committee. Offered according to demand.

HL 5800 Practicum in Health Education - 1-3 credits
Field experience in an agency or institution involved in the planning and evaluation of health education. Work experience guided by qualified supervisors in conjunction with Plymouth faculty. Periodic written reports, field-based projects and comprehensive portfolio review. Offered according to demand.

HL 5910 Independent Study in Health Education - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. A chance for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Health Promotion

HP 5010 Introduction to Health Education and Health Promotion - 3 credits
Provides health educators with the opportunity to interpret concepts, purposes, philosophies and theories of health education and wellness. Students will investigate physical, social, emotional and intellectual factors influencing health behavior.

HP 5020 Designing and Implementing Health Promotion Programs - 3 credits
Provides students with the information and resources that will enable them to develop skills in program planning for health promotion. Needs assessment, goal and objective formulation, instructional methods and materials, program implementation and evaluation will be included. Summer.
Prerequisite: HP 5010.

HP 5030 Evaluation of Health Promotion Programs - 3 credits
Gives students the tools and skills they need to design and conduct health program valuations. Evaluation purposes, levels, methods, designs and measurement issues will be covered. Summer of odd years.
Prerequisite: HP 5020 and ED 5030.

HP 5070 Community Health Promotion - 3 credits
The focus of this course will be to review basic program planning skills, implementation and evaluation of community and worksite health promotion programs. The class will plan, implement and evaluate a health promotion program, i.e. wellness fair or workshop. Students will learn grant writing skills, pamphlet/newsletter development and will be introduced to the field of wellness/health coaching and facilitator trainings, e.g. smoking cessation.

HP 5090 Mind Body Techniques for Stress and Health - 3 credits
The focus of this course will be to introduce the student to mind-body techniques for stress management and health issues. Some of the techniques will include yoga, breathing, meditation, progressive relaxation, imagery and massage as well as an introduction to the field of integrative medicine. Some of the therapies discussed will include energy medicine, aromatherapy and acupuncture. Will be accepted as one credit in stress management.

HP 5110 Wellness Concepts for Educators - 2 credits
An introduction to the teaching of health education in our school systems. Organization of curriculum including content and methodology will be stressed. Fall.

HP 5200 Nutrition - 1 credit
A nutritional education course with a special focus on the issues relevant to students of physical education and health education. A survey of concepts in nutrition science will be applied to the support of general wellness and active lifestyles. Offered spring term of even years.

HP 5210 Fitness Principles - 1 credit
The fitness component is designed to provide the student the opportunity to experience, research and develop a variety of fitness activities for use in his/her future career as a health educator. The elements of physical fitness and total body wellness will be discussed and applied in diverse ways. Each student will develop and compile fitness methods appropriate for a variety of populations and settings. Offered spring term of even years.

HP 5220 Disease and the Environment - 1 credit
This course will discuss common diseases and disorders and the web of causation and wellness models related to disease and the environment. Diseases discussed will include chronic diseases, communicable diseases, as well as some mental health diseases. Offered spring term of even years.

HP 5230 Substance Abuse - 1 credit
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of contemporary drug use and abuse. Course content includes the determinants of drug abuse, psychological, physiological, societal and pharmacological aspects of drugs, prevention and treatment of drug addiction, as well as information about specific drugs.

HP 5240 First Aid and CPR - 1 credit
First Aid and CPR is designed to certify individuals in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic first aid. Includes breathing and cardiac emergencies for adults, children and infants, and advanced airway management skills. Students will have the opportunity to be certified in First Aid and CPR at the end of the course. Offered Spring Term of even years.

HP 5250 Consumer Health - 1 credit
The focus of this course is to identify content, resources, materials and instructional strategies for providing consumer education to various populations. Students will discuss key issues including legal and ethical considerations, curriculum development and resources for the school and community setting. The relationship of consumerism and health will be the underlying theme of this professional preparation course. This is an online course and is offered each term.

HP 5260 Mental Health and Sexuality - credits
This course is designed to provide students with information relevant to contemporary mental health issues and human sexuality issues. Students will be able to identify resource, personnel and agencies pertinent to these issues. Current theories of behavioral change will be examined. Offered spring term of even years.

HP 5560 Special Topics in Health Promotion - 1-4 credits
This course will cover various topics in Health Promotion.

to top of page

Physical Education

PE 5560 Special Topics in Physical Education - 1-4 credits
This course will cover various topics In Physical Education. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

PE 5600 Athletic Administration - 3 credits
Problems and standards connected with the administration of school and college athletics are considered, as well as the relationships with state and national athletic foundations and with conferences for athletics. The course is designed to prepare the graduate student to organize and administer a program of intramural sports or athletics at the public school level.

PE 5610 Sport Law - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide knowledge and understanding of the laws pertaining to physical education, athletics and sport, and the factors important to schools, colleges and sport organizations concerning liability of physical educators, coaches and administrators.

PE 5620 Sport Finance, Budgeting and Marketing - 3 credits
This course will cover the basic theories and principles of sport finance, budgeting and marketing - from sport and recreational facilities to professional and amateur sports. This course will also reveal how to study and understand the market, develop a marketing and finance strategy, clarify a sport organization's needs and goals, and implement marketing plans through sponsorship, licensing, pricing, promotions, advertising, broadcasting and sales. Case studies that translate several professionals' experiences into learning scenarios will be utilized. In addition, observations of future trends in the field will be discussed.

PE 5630 Sport Psychology - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide the student with the theory basis of human behavior in sport settings with an emphasis on the mental aspects of behavior. Areas to be discussed are sport personology (including personality, motivation, achievement and attributions), anxiety/arousal, attentional focus, and social/cultural manifestations of sport, including humanism, youth sport, aggression, cooperation/cohesion and leadership.

PE 5640 Sports, Society and Cultures - 3 credits
This course is designed to raise awareness about the sociology of sport and how cultural practices in the world of sports can have significant social, economic and political consequences. Specific attention will be paid to gender, racial, class and ethical issues, as well as to the history of sport, media and sports, money and sports, and sports violence. There will also be analysis and discussion concerning youth sports, international sports and the commercialization of sports. Sports, Society and Cultures will give future sport managers a broad understanding of how sport impacts different groups of people in different ways throughout this country and beyond.

PE 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Limited to students who have demonstrated their ability to do superior work in courses sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Performance, and who are considered able to do independent work. Before registering for the independent study, students should consult with the advisor concerning a program of study. Students are expected to work independently with tutorial guidance. Evidence of progress demonstrated by papers and discussion. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Organizational Approaches to Transformation and Healing

OH 5100 Full Spectrum Leadership - 3 credits
This course offers a study of a leadership model based on personal authenticity. The fundamental premise of this model is that effective leadership emerges from the synthesis and synergy of body, mind, heart and spirit to weave intention and presence into the organizational environment. Through varied learning methods participants will explore ways to foster culture that links knowledge and resources to promote a climate of transformative trust in the service of individual well being and the organizational mission.

OH 5200 Social Justice at Work - 3 credits
This course examines the role of "positive institutions" in creating and supporting the well-being of its members while maintaining its profitability or non-profit mission. Issues of power, privilege and prejudice as challenges to the formation of ethical and socially just institutions will be explored. Topics include issues of diversity, equity, ethics, and social justice.

OH 5300 Work as a Personal Journey - 3 credits
This course offers an exploration of the personal, interpersonal and transpersonal elements of work and personal growth. Through varied learning methods, participants will attend to the ways in which occupations transform us and how we transform our work to support personal development. Learning will extend to the ways in which we, as followers and leaders, can cooperate to support these synchronous and reciprocal processes creatively and with intention.

to top of page

Anthropology

AN 5140 Special Topics in Anthropology - 3 credits
Specialized topics chosen for graduate seminar by individual faculty. Scheduled as needed.

AN 5410 Native Americans: Past and Present - 3 credits
This course traces the history of native cultures in North America with an accent on the northeastern region for teachers and other educators. Various Indian cultures will be described in traditional anthropological categories such as language, kinship, religion, politics and subsistence. Cultural change, relativism, ethnocentrism and social conflict are some of the topics used to understand their culture from the past into the present.

AN 5910 Independent Study in Anthropology - 1-3 credits
Independent study provides students with the opportunity to round out their background in anthropology through reading and research that supplements previous coursework in the field. A research paper, periodic conferences and an oral examination may be required. Consent of a faculty supervisor, the department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Geography

GE 5150 Topics in Geography - 3 credits
A methodological study of selected topics such as the geography of tourism, landforms, education, economic activity and geographic information systems.

GE 5910 Independent Study in Geography - 1-3 credits
Provides students with the opportunity to round out their background in the social sciences through reading and research, supplementing previous course work in the field. A research paper, periodic conferences and an oral examination may be required. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

History

HI 5040 American Beginnings - 1600-1800 3 credits
This course provides an in-depth exploration of early American history focusing on changes in settlement patterns, population, diversity politics, gender and race relations. It is intended to explore and analyze the meaning of the nation's past while focusing on the creation and consolidation of American nationality.

HI 5260 Historical Archaeology - 3 credits
Introduces students to the study of historical archaeology, explores various topics from earliest colonial settlement to artifacts of today, and exposes them to the different techniques and methods used. Field trips and some outdoor classes are part of the course. Concentrates on the New England region. Spring of even years.

HI 5300 New Hampshire and New England History - 3 credits
Studying New Hampshire and New England history allows students to learn more about a particular region and to see how past events and movements at the local level interacted with or were influenced by various events and cultural changes on the national and international levels. Topics covered will create an awareness of the place of New Hampshire and New England in the various events that make up United States History.

HI 5330 New Hampshire and New England: Historical Sites - 4 credits
The purpose of this course is twofold: to introduce students to a variety of locations and historic sites throughout New England and to allow students to analyze the historical significance of each site and use the knowledge gained to produce papers and projects useful to the student's career while furthering their research and writing skills. We are fortunate to have many historical sites within easy travel distance that may be used to convey the nature of change since the earliest settlement in the region. This will allow students the opportunity to explore and interpret the layered historical landscape.

HI 5370 American Maritime History - 3 credits
The development of the maritime aspect of American history from colonial times to present. Examines the growth of merchant-shipping, naval developments and the related economic and political outcomes dealing with maritime history. Students will be exposed to the application of maritime history for educational use in the elementary and secondary grades. Fall of even years.

HI 5800 Topics in History - 3 credits
Specialized topics chosen for graduate seminar by individual faculty. Unscheduled.

HI 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Provides students with the opportunity to round out their background in the social sciences through reading and research, supplementing previous course work in the field. A research paper, periodic conferences and an oral examination may be required. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Heritage Studies

HS 5100 Heritage Studies: Foundations - 3 credits
Heritage Studies Foundations is designed for those interested in bringing heritage studies to areas such as schools, museums, historical societies.  Relevant concepts and techniques used in history, geography, English, anthropology, and sociology will be presented so participants may create models for class exercises, build museum exhibits, and/or incorporate heritage studies methodology into their work.  Participants will learn methods of social science interpretation and inference about historical events, structures, artifacts, settlement patterns, and various ideologies of the past.   Multi-disciplinary techniques will be used in interpretations of nearby history and in the development of materials that may be used in educating the general public and students in the classroom.

HS 5200 World Heritage Studies - 3 credits
In this course the European origins and international conventions of the world heritage movement are examined. Several international sites are studied in depth through slides and discussion. Sites in the United States are also considered as are issues of natural versus cultural sites and cultural resource management. Two field trips are required.

HS 5560 Special Topics in Heritage Studies - 1-4 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. Taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. Since topics may vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

HS 5620 Archaeological Field Methods: Prehistory - 2-9 credits
HS 5630 Archaeological Field Methods: Historical - 2-9 credits
HS 5640 Archaeological Field Methods: Nautical - 2-9 credits
Depending on the investigative circumstances, provides an opportunity to acquire field experience - survey, mapping, excavation, material analysis - at land or underwater sites from either the prehistoric or historical periods.

HS 5710 Internship in Heritage Studies - 1-4 credits
Advanced students and teachers in Heritage Studies with at least 5 graduate credits can start their internship placement. Individual placement with an organization/institution must be arranged through the director of Heritage Studies the term before starting work. The type of work will be determined by the interest of the individual and the needs of the organization. Creation of outreach programs, field trips, tours, displays, exhibits, workshops, theme interpretations or research utilizing resources of the organization/ institution to educate the public on any topic in Heritage Studies. Prerequisite: 5 graduate credits or more in Heritage Studies.

HS 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Provides students with the opportunity to round out their background in the social sciences through reading and research, supplementing previous course work in the field. A research paper, periodic conferences and an oral examination may be required. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

Historic Preservation

HPR 5100 Principles of Historic Preservation - 3 credits
This course provides a foundation to historic preservation. The course will focus on principles and theories pertaining to preservation and restoration practices; recognition of architectural periods, styles, and construction methods in context of the evolution of cultural landscapes; the definition of significance and integrity in buildings and districts; strategies by which buildings and their settings have been preserved and used; and methods of reading and interpreting the cultural environment.

HPR 5200 The Rural Cultural Environment: Architecture and Landscape - 3 credits
This course uses the rural countryside as a laboratory to examine the cultural landscape. It will trace the impact of natural, cultural, economic, and technological forces on the "built" environment. The course studies the evolution of buildings and their settings, with emphasis on settlement and rural industrialization. Subjects to be discussed include the evolution of architectural styles and construction techniques, town planning and land division, the evolution of transportation, and the harnessing of water power. Although the course will use specific locales as examples, it is intended to instill general principles by which any human landscape can be examined and interpreted in relationship to natural resources and human culture.

HPR 5300 Historical Preservation Methods and Documentation - 3 credits
This course is intended to provide an introduction to the field of historic preservation and to instill basic skills in researching and understanding historic structures, especially buildings and bridges. It will provide instruction in assessing the evolution and condition of structures and in recording them by written, graphic, and photographic methods. The course will also emphasize traditional methods and materials of construction, the behavior of structural components over time, and techniques of determining the original condition and subsequent changes of historic structures.

HPR 5400 Preservation Planning & Management - 3 credits
Once ignored in civic and urban planning, historic preservation is now seen as integral to the definition and protection of the cultural landscape. Historic preservation planning and cultural resource management (CRM) are accomplished through the identification, evaluation, documentation, registration, treatment, and ongoing stewardship of historic properties. This course examines the processes of preservation planning and management that have been established by the National Park Service of the United States and by comparable agencies in other countries, and illustrates the application of these standards at the federal, state and local levels.

HPR 5500 Cultural Property Law - 3 credits
This course will examine the international, national, and state legal frameworks for the protection of cultural property. The course will survey the threats of war and crime to global cultural heritage, with a particular focus on international antiquities trafficking. It will review in detail the international and American response to such threats, including the 1954 Hague Convention, the 1970 UNESCO Convention, the Cultural Property Implementation Act and its resulting bilateral agreements, the National Stolen Property Act, and the enforcement of various criminal laws and customs regulations. Museum responses will also be studied through review of the ICOM Code of Ethics and a discussion of repatriation controversies such as the recent return of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's "hot pot." The course will also introduce students to important national heritage regulations such as the Archaeological Resources Protection Act, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, and the Abandoned Shipwreck Act. Also reviewed will be state statutes and administrative rules that protect local cultural heritage, with a particular emphasis on New Hampshire law.

HPR 5600 Archaeological Methods - 3 credits
Students will be exposed to archaeological field and laboratory techniques, and will learn the types of research questions that archaeologists ask while reconstructing past cultures. The course will draw upon prehistoric and historic examples, there will be many opportunities to handle artifacts in the classroom, and both terrestrial and underwater sites will be featured. There will be a minimum of two required field trips to archaeological sites and to demonstrate equipment and techniques in the field.

to top of page

Political Science

PO 5130 Topics in Political Science - 3 credits
Various approaches to the study of politics, particularly functional, geographical or theoretical problems and issue areas will be selected from time to time. These will serve as "the topics" to provide intellectual focus for advanced application of the political science method to the study of man. Unscheduled.

PO 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Provides students with the opportunity to round out their background in the social sciences through reading and research, supplementing previous course work in the field. A research paper, periodic conferences and an oral examination may be required. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Sociology

SO 5140 Special Topics in Sociology - 3 credits
Specialized topic chosen for graduate seminar by individual faculty. Scheduled as needed.

SO 5910 Independent Study in Sociology - 1-3 credits
Independent study provides students with the opportunity to round out their background in sociology through reading and research that supplements previous coursework in the field. A research paper, periodic conferences and an oral examination may be required. Consent of a faculty supervisor, the department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Social Work

to top of page

Languages and Linguistics

LL 5003 Language Acquisition - 3 credits
This course will examine the nature of first and second language acquisition and development. Topics include first language acquisition, second language acquisition by children and adults, bilingualism, and their applications to language teaching. The course provides an overview of current theories of language acquisition.

LL 5004 Language and Linguistics - 3 credits
Provides prospective language teachers with an introduction to the study of language. Principal topics include sociolinguistic theories, language variation, and pragmatics; and the classroom implications of phonology, morphology, semantics and syntax.

LL 5005 Foundations of TESOL Methodology - 3 credits
Participants learn the foundations of communicative language teaching to non-native speakers in multicultural and homogenous classrooms. Topics include content-based instruction, teaching of the four skills, curriculum development, and lesson planning and execution. Participants acquire and practice the skills needed to teach language to students of all ages and abilities.

LL 5006 Language Evaluation and Assessment - 3 credits
Participants in this course explore different approaches for creating, evaluating, and scoring both formal and informal language assessment measures for students of different ages and ability levels. Topics include authentic communicative assessment measures; portfolio assessment, standardized testing, test biases and testing different skills. This course foregrounds authentic and useful classroom language assessment measures.

LL 5007 ESOL Literacy - 3 credits
Participants in this course examine the theories and practice of second language reading and writing acquisition. Topics include developing literate behaviors, decoding, guided reading, shared reading and writing, and the writing process. The focus of the course is to develop participants' proficiency in teaching reading and writing to students of different ages and ability levels through phonics, whole language, and integrated approaches.

LL 5008 Advanced Topics in Language Teaching Methodology - 3 credits
This course provides in-depth examination of widely-used, evidence-based techniques for teaching non-native speakers of English. Students gain both a theoretical grounding and hands-on experience with scaffolding content for language learners, the use of technology in the language classroom, and developing learner strategies. This course includes instruction in using CALLA, the Cognitive Academic Language Learning Approach, and SIOP, Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol with English language learners.

LL 5009 Intercultural Communication in Multicultural Classrooms - 3 credits
This course examines the importance of cultural perspectives in language education for non-native speakers. Emphasis is placed on understanding the role of acculturation on academic success, and programmatic alternatives and pedagogy for English language learners in a pluralistic society. The course explores the impact of cultural backgrounds of language-minority children and their families, and their adjustment to a new society, on language acquisition and school achievement.

LL 5010 Practicum in TESOL - 6 credits
This practicum serves as field experience for ESOL certification candidates and for students taking a self-designed MEd with a concentration in TESOL but without K-12 certification. A candidate seeking ESOL teacher certification must do the practicum in a New Hampshire public school; a candidate not seeking ESOL teacher certification can do the practicum in any approved setting. Commitment includes regular meetings with the course instructor and the development of a professional portfolio that fulfils all NH required teacher competencies. Supervision will be done jointly by the cooperating institution and Plymouth State University faculty. Permission of instructor is required.

LL 5170 Foreign Language Methodology K-12 - 3 credits
This course will introduce students to the theories underlying current pedagogical approaches to foreign language instruction; to assist the student in collecting, creating and adapting instructional materials appropriate to elementary, middle and senior high school foreign language courses; to assist the student in preparing and implementing individual lesson plans, long-range planning, student assessment, text book evaluation and the use of technology; to prepare the student for a successful student teaching experience.

LL 5500 Special Topics in Language & Linguistics - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern related to languages and/or linguistics. The course will be taught by a specialist or specialists within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. Since topics, issues and concerns vary, the course may be repeated.

LL 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Advanced work in a specialized area, selected and pursued in consultation with a faculty advisor. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair or program coordinator, and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

French

FR 5910 French Independent Study - 1-3 credits
A course of study to round out the student's background through systematic reading, intensive and extensive, to supplement course work in the field. Selection of a reading list or a special project under faculty supervision. Consent of an appropriate faculty supervisor, department chair and Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Spanish

SP 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
A course of study to round out the students' background through systematic reading, intensive and extensive, to supplement course work in the field. Selection of a reading list or a special project under faculty supervision. Consent of an appropriate faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Library Media

LM 5010 Learning Resources Centers and Services - 3 credits
This course will focus on the role and functions of library/ media centers in K-12 schools. The topics covered will include the problems of organization and management, the types of learning resources and services, and federal and state programs and standards. We will also look at the developments and trends in library/media centers.

LM 5020 Cataloging and Classification - 3 credits
This course will introduce the principles of organization of information and information retrieval systems. Topics covered will include organization of print and non-print collections, Dewey Decimal Classification, Library of Congress Classification, Library of Congress and Sears Subject headings, Anglo-American Cataloging Rules and MARC records. Emphasis will be placed on cataloging and classification of school library materials. Library automation systems and their management, copy cataloging and trends in technology will also be covered.

LM 5030 Reference and Research - 3 credits
This course will introduce students to concepts, principles and current developments in reference and information services for the school library/media center. This will include the most important and used reference materials in both print and electronic format, evaluation of reference sources, the reference interview, bibliographic instruction and readers' advisory.

LM 5040 Instructional Materials Production and Use - 3 credits
The course covers the role of instructional materials in media centers and settings of various types, emphasizing instructional design and production techniques using different media and equipment including computers.

LM 5210 Practicum in School Media - 3 credits
The practicum is to provide the student with a supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience through applying knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. Commitment includes a negotiated number of hours per week. Supervision is by the institution or agency concerned and by Plymouth faculty.

LM 5500 Special Topics in Library Media Studies - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

LM 5910 Independent Research - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. Topic must receive approval by Program Coordinator.

to top of page

Mathematics

A student, with approval from the Mathematics graduate advisor, may take a maximum of three undergraduate courses for graduate credit (MG 3100 or higher), if a similar course has not been included at the undergraduate level. If deemed appropriate, a project to be determined by the course instructor, in consultation with the student, will be required to obtain graduate credit.

MG 5000 Mathematics Curriculum Implementation - 1-4 credits
Topics in this course vary, but will focus on the implementation of standards-based curriculum materials or other recently developed curriculum materials. Also examines issues in contemporary mathematics education. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5010 Seminar in Mathematics Education: (Topic Stated for Each Offering) - 2-4 credits
The topic for the course is selected by the professor from current developments and issues in mathematics education, such as Mathematics for Exceptional Children, Piaget's Research, Mathematics Assessment, Algebra in the K-12 curriculum. Course may be repeated on a different topic with permission of the department chair.

MG 5710 Topics in Algebra for Elementary/Middle School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: techniques and content for developing algebraic thinking at the elementary and middle school levels; exploration of underlying themes in algebra; patterns, rates of change, linear, quadratic and exponential functions; generalization and equality. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5720 Topics in Number Theory for Elementary/Middle School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics in this course vary, but may focus on one or more of the following topics traditionally found in a K-8 mathematics curriculum: primes and composites, the LCM and GCD, the Euclidean algorithm, divisibility and modular arithmetic. Other topics may include perfect, abundant and deficient numbers, complex numbers and mathematical induction. A standard text on the topic will be used when appropriate. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5730 Topics in Discrete Math for Elementary/Middle School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics in this course vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: logic, proof, set theory and Venn diagrams, algorithmic thinking, Boolean algebra, mathematical induction, recursion relations, graph theory and networking, and relating those ideas to teaching discrete mathematics in grades K-8. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5740 Topics in Geometry for Elementary/Middle School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: analytic and transformational geometry, properties of plane and solid figures, similarity, tessellations, fractals, projective geometry and geometry connections with the physical world. Exploration of geometric concepts may be done via hands-on activities, computer software or calculators. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5750 Topics in Statistics/Probability for Elementary/Middle School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: techniques and content for teaching statistics and probability at the elementary and middle school levels; organizing and displaying univariate data; measures of central tendency, stem and leaf; box and scatter plots, regression analysis; and empirical and theoretical probability. Students may explore ideas through hands-on activities, computer software or graphing calculators. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5760 Topics in Mathematics for Elementary/Middle School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following ideas: problem solving, logic and proof, set theory and Venn diagrams, calculus notions, number systems and mathematical modeling. A standard text on the topic will be used when appropriate. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5810 Topics in Algebra for Middle/Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: techniques and content for teaching algebra at the secondary level based on national and state recommendations, standards-based materials; relations and function; data analysis and curve fitting; sequences and series; precalculus concepts' chaos and fractals: groups, rings and fields. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5820 Topics in Number Theory for Middle/Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics in this course vary, but may focus on one or more of the following topics, which are traditionally found in the middle/secondary mathematics curriculum, such as prime numbers, mathematical induction, the Euclidean algorithm, divisibility and complex numbers. Other topics explored may include Peano's Postulates, Fermat's Last Theorem and the Well Ordering Principle. A standard text on the topic will be used when appropriate. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5830 Topics in Discrete Mathematics for Middle/Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics in this course vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: logic, proof, set theory and Venn diagrams, algorithmic thinking, Boolean algebra, mathematical induction, recursion relations, graph theory and networking, and relating those ideas to teaching discrete mathematics in grades 7-12. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5840 Topics in Geometry for Middle/Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: history of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry, Euclidean geometries, non-Euclidean geometries, Euclidean geometries in the plane, polyhedra, analytic and transformational geometry, projective geometry, fractals, geometry in the real world and topology. Investigations may use computer software and Internet resources. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5850 Topics in Statistics/Probability for Middle/Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following: techniques and content for teaching statistics and probability at the secondary level; organizing and displaying univariate data, stem and leaf; box and scatter plots; regression analysis, linear programming, random sampling; confidence intervals and tests of significance; experimental design; discrete and continuous probability functions; and experimental and theoretical probability. Students may explore these ideas through hands-on activities, computer software or graphing calculators. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summers.

MG 5860 Topics in Mathematics for Middle/Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Topics for this course can vary, but may focus on one or more of the following ideas: problem solving, logic and proof, set theory and Venn diagrams, topology, real analysis, complex analysis and mathematical modeling. Standard text on the topic will be used when appropriate. Students may repeat the course with a different topic as its focus with the permission of the department chair. Summer.

MG 5870 Topics in Calculus for Secondary School Teachers - 2-4 credits
Consists of topics from the study of calculus, advanced calculus and/or the applications of calculus for the purpose of providing some insight into the importance and use of calculus. With the permission of the Mathematics Department chair, the course may be repeated for credit if the theme and/or topics change. Summer.

MG 5910 Independent Study - 1-4 credits
An individual study project determined to be of value to students and the Mathematics Department. Students present a talk concerning some portion of their study to a department colloquium during the term. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Music Education

ME 5120 New England Band Directors Institute - 1 credit
A multi-faceted seminar intended to help participants improve upon the musical, educational and administrative skills involved with public school instrumental music. Emphasis will be placed on new methodologies and material. The staff of guest speakers will include active educators from throughout New England as well as featured speakers whose contributions to music education have gained national or international attention. Since topics will vary, the course may be repeated. Summer.

ME 5260 Instrumental Conducting and Repertoire - 3 credits
The study of instrumental conducting as applied to the public school setting, with emphasis on developing effective teaching and rehearsal strategies, is the focus for this course. Study will include available published methods and pedagogical materials as well as age-appropriate study performance repertoire. On-site observation and advising will involve one or more of the student's ensembles. Attendance at periodically scheduled on-campus seminars will also be required.

ME 5290 Practicum in Instrumental Music Education - 6 credits
This course will focus on the application and documentation of strategies pertaining to the musical, administrative, and/or pedagogical responsibilities of instrumental music teachers in the public schools. Attendance at periodically scheduled on-campus seminars will be required. Also a minimum of one year of teaching experience is necessary for this course.

ME 5300 Music Technology for Educators - 3 credits
This course will examine the history and evolution of Music Technology in music education and how it impacts music curriculum development, music education, culture and society. It will explore music education, music administration, music notation and music sequencing software, MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) techniques, synthesis, programs and equipment that support MIDI, music notation and music sequencing for the music educator. Students will acquire proficiency in MIDI technology and demonstrate that proficiency by designing a curriculum that integrates Music Technology into the music classroom. Student must also select to work in either Finale PrintMusic or Digidesign ProTools to demonstrate mastery of MIDI and MIDI software.

ME 5500 Survey of Arts Projects, Programs and Technologies - 3 credits
An overview of arts projects, programs and technologies, this survey course acquaints the student with a wide variety of integrated arts experiences that have been successfully implemented into a wide range of educational, cultural and recreational settings. Commonalities between projects and programs will be examined. Summer.

ME 5560 Special Topics in Music Education - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a specialized topic pertaining to contemporary issues and methodologies. The course will be taught by a specialist or series of specialists within the area under study. Since topics will vary, the course may be repeated. Summer.

ME 5600 The Art of Choral Conducting: A Seminar in Conducting Techniques - 3 credits
An exploration of the choral process for choral directors, general music teachers and performing artists. The role of both gestural and verbal communication in rehearsal and performance will be examined through workshop experience. Approaches to conducting technique, rehearsal design and procedures, score preparation, programming, voice placement, public relations and recruitment will be examined. Summer.

ME 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Advanced work in a specialized area, selected and pursued in consultation with a faculty advisor. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Music

MU 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Advanced work in a specialized area selected and pursued in consultation with a faculty advisor. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Theatre

TH 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Advanced work in a specialized area, selected and pursued in consultation with a faculty advisor. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Reading and Writing

RL 5014 Reading, Writing, and Literature - 3 credits
This course is designed as an active and reflective experience of reading and process writing. Students will be immersed in literature and process writing as they develop a portfolio of their own work as lifelong readers and writers. They will review theory and practice regarding process writing, writing to learn, and writing across the curriculum. They will work in the format of the reading/writing connection to explore a range of non-print and print genres, including but not limited to fiction, nonfiction, poetry, fantasy, timed writing to a prompt and ulticultural literature. Further topics to be examined in this course are the development of practical classroom applications of creating a literate environment, supporting the reading/writing connection in the classroom, exploration of the question 'what makes good writing', assessment in the reading/writing workshop, the mechanical aspects of writing, and the needs of diverse learners. This course is recommended for students in the Reading and Writing M.Ed. Program and the Reading and Writing Certification Program, as well as for any other students who teach reading and writing in the elementary, middle, and secondary schools.

RL 5110 Research in Reading and Writing - 3 credits
Research in Reading and Writing is an investigation into the significant research theory and principles on the development of reading and writing, the teaching of reading and writing, the assessment of reading and writing, and the implications of this knowledge that enrich our understandings and refine our practices. From historical perspectives to current trends and issues, we will explore the transformation of the reading and writing landscape. In doing so, we will discover what research in reading and writing is; how it is used; the value of reading and writing research; how it is applied to improve practice, understanding, and reflective thought; and its role in determining best institutional practices.

RL 5170 Content Area Literacy - 3 credits
To provide literacy instructors with practical suggestions, approaches, and tools to engage all K-12 students, including adolescents themselves, in focusing on improving student reading, writing, thinking, and listening. A three tiered model will examine the areas of student motivation, integrating literacy and learning, and sustaining literacy development. The final product will be the formation of a differentiated instructional plan in the content area demonstrating the use of strategies presented in the course. Participants will be using their own existing school curricula or be planning to use the strategies with future students. A district wide presentation can be developed from the culmination of all student's artifacts.

RL 5300 Advanced Children's/Young Adult Literature - 3 credits
This advanced literature course will survey prose, poetry and wordless books for school age students. Genres to be discussed include: picture books, traditional literature, modern fantasy, contemporary realistic fiction, historical fiction, multicultural and diversity literature, informational books and biographies. The course is designed to help the educator evaluate and select appropriate literature to develop literature-based reading and language arts programs, as well as choosing literature for content subjects. Students will work cooperatively on research with a current issue novel and independently write and present a novel unit. Summer.

RL 5560 Special Topics in Reading, Writing and the Language Arts - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or as an alternative methodology. A faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor. Offered according to demand.

RL 5710 Advanced Diagnostic Testing and the Improvement of Reading and Writing - 3 credits
Diagnostic and instructional issues presented include: reading and writing development; factors related to reading and writing disabilities; varied approaches to individual diagnosis and proven emergent reading, corrective, standardized tests and authentic assessments currently used in reading and special education programs. Seminars in conjunction with the practicum emphasize peer coaching and the application of current literacy research. May be repeated with the permission of the instructor. Winterim and summer.

RL 5750 Independent Research in Reading and Writing - 1-3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The student will propose a topic, issue or concern to the program advisor for approval.

RL 5760 Linguistic Principles and Methods of Teaching English as a Second or Other Language - 3 credits
In this course, participants will examine the nature of language, language systems and language in context. The focus will be on the relevance of linguistic and sociolinguistic knowledge to teaching languages, the nature of language development, and the theory and practice of various teaching methods for different age groups and classroom situations.

RL 5770 Developing Language & Literacy for Diverse Learners - 3 credits
In this course students will study the foundations of language/literacy processes and instruction. Topics include the psychological, cultural, and linguistic theoretical foundations; current practices, research, and historical developments; reading and writing language development related to their acquisition as well as cultural and linguistic diversity; major components of reading curriculum; major components of writing instruction; reading and writing instructional strategies and curriculum materials. The course will be in an interactive seminar/workshop format with an online component.

RL 5820 Literacy Practicum - 1-3 credits
This practicum focuses on leadership, collaboration and coaching. Discussion of literacy program planning, operation, management, budget, curriculum, and evaluation. Emphasis on the role of the reading and writing specialist as researcher, leader, and change agent. Study of collaborative consultative skills, supervisory skills, staff development services, and community activities. Field-based experiences at the elementary, middle, and high school. This is the capstone course for students in the reading and writing specialist program. Winter and summer.

RL 5830 Practicum in Reading Diagnosis and Remedial Reading - 3 credits
Analysis of the factors contributing to reading disability. Diagnosis, teaching, curriculum planning and use of informal and formal assessments with small groups of readers in K-12 settings and supervised tutorial situations. Discussions with literacy professionals and paraprofessionals, and participation in professional development workshops. Seminars promote reflection on instructional practices and the range of services available for readers across the developmental continuum.

RL 5910 Independent Study in Language Arts and Literacy - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. An opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

RL 6120 Connecting Reading, Writing and Mathematics in the Elementary Classroom - 3 credits
This course will focus on the integration of reading and writing with mathematics. Methods and activities for integration will be explored. Students will be involved in a comprehensive study of ways to use reading and writing to strengthen the mathematics curriculum. Students will develop their own integrated unity plan to use in their classroom. Also presented as ED 5100.

to top of page

Biology

BI 5090 Cell Structure and Function - 4 credits
Addresses the diversity of form and function found in the basic units of life, the cells. The first segment centers on the various techniques, especially electron microscopy, which are used to study microscopic anatomy. The components, organelles, that comprise a "generalized cell" are examined and their functional relationships discussed. The second segment centers on the structural differences between tissues of the body (classical histology). Finally, this knowledge of cell and tissue structure will be employed to understand organs and organ systems. This course will not be purely morphological. The development and functional properties of these systems will be examined. There will be a laboratory component in this course. Falls.

BI 5100 Biology Colloquium - 1 credit
Course is comprised of lectures featuring prominent speakers from a variety of institutions.

BI 5180 Biotechnology - 4 credits
This course is an exploration of the use of living organisms to produce products beneficial to human kind, the application of biological organisms to technical and industrial processes and the use of "novel" microbes that have been altered or manipulated by humans through techniques of genetic engineering. This is a laboratory oriented course. Falls.

BI 5230 Landscape Ecology - 3 credits
The study of ecological principles at the landscape scale. Topics to be examined include the problem of scale, how models are used in landscape ecology, what biotic and abiotic features are associated with the pattern of the landscape, what processes take place in the landscape, and what the applications of landscape ecology are. Course will include both lecture and practical experience in landscape ecology.

BI 5350 Conservation Biology - 3 credits
Conservation Biology investigates the causes and consequences of loss of biodiversity. Species are first placed into their ecological context. Then global and regional patterns of species extinction are discussed. The mechanisms that precipitate loss and eventually cause extinction are examined through modeling and statistical exercises. Students share in the responsibility for covering the material by presenting selected topics.

BI 5380 Avian Ecology - 3 credits
Avian Ecology is a field-oriented course that focuses on bird interactions with each other and their environment as a medium for understanding field ecological research. Students become familiar with local bird identification, give presentations on selected topics, assist in banding birds and carry out their own individual research projects under the guidance of a researching avian ecologist.

BI 5390 Ecology - 4 credits
Fundamental ecological concepts that illustrate the complex interrelationships of living organisms with each other and with the non-living environment will be the focus of the course. Laboratory time used for field work, experimentation and analysis of data will be incorporated. Graduate students will have additional coursework and/or projects equivalent to graduate level study. Falls.

BI 5560 Special Topics in Biological Sciences - 1-3 credits
Lectures on special topics in selected areas of the biological sciences. May be repeated in the same or separate terms, as topics vary, to a maximum of 9 graduate hours.

BI 5760 Animal Behavior - 4 credits
The study of animal behavior offers a unique opportunity to understand the relationship between ecology, evolution, physiology, populations and individual organisms. Examines the influence of genetics and environment on animal behavior. Outdoor and laboratory investigations test specific student and/or instructor generated hypotheses concerning the causal mechanisms underlying behavior. Falls.

BI 5770 Animal Physiology - 4 credits
This course will examine the various systems of the body including the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive and excretory systems using a comparative approach. Discusses the control of these systems and behavior by the nervous and endocrine systems. Inherent is an analysis of an interaction between the mechanisms of homeostatic regulation and the environment. Laboratory investigations using local animals illustrate some of the principles outlined in lecture through the use of student and/or instructor-generated hypothesis testing and uses modern equipment including computers, Data Acquisition Units, amplifiers, transducers, stimulators and activity monitors. Spring of even years.

BI 5780 Neurobiology - 4 credits
Examines the functioning of the nervous system in vertebrates and invertebrates. The fundamental principles underlying membrane potentials, action potentials and conduction are followed by mechanisms of communication between single cells and groups of cells. Different aspects of sensory, motor and integrative physiology are discussed and the role of specific parts of the brain is explored. The laboratory portion is used to demonstrate certain principles and phenomena discussed in lecture. The laboratory involves a series of student-driven mini-projects. Students use computers, Data Acquisition Units, oscilloscopes, manipulators, transducers and amplifiers to test student and/or instructor generated hypotheses. Spring of odd years.

BI 5810 University Biology Teaching - 1 credit
A course designed for graduate students interested in learning more about teaching biology effectively at the University level. The format of the course will primarily be discussion-oriented with contributions from faculty both in and outside of the Department of Biological Sciences. You should either be currently teaching or have taught at the college level. Topically the course will cover three areas: teaching and learning, the academic job market and faculty life.

BI 5900 Graduate Seminar: Biology - 3 credits
Specific topics vary from year to year depending upon the interests of the faculty and the students enrolled..

BI 5910 Independent Study: Biology - 3 credits
Original research done in an area of the student's choosing in conjunction with a sponsoring faculty member. Results must be presented at a scientific conference.

BI 5950 Thesis Research: Biology - 1-12 credits
Supervised execution of thesis research. Prerequisite: permission of advisor after submission of a thesis proposal to committee.

to top of page

Chemistry

CH 5910 Independent Study in Chemistry - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in chemistry through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities is offered through independent study. This is an opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the field. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair, coordinator and Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Environmental Science and Policy

ESP 5000 Environmental Science - 3 credits
Students in this course will be introduced to the sciences fundamental to the understanding of major environmental issues. The adverse impacts being imposed on our air, water and land resources will be explored. Students will gain a better understanding of aspects of the physical, chemical and biological sciences that define environmental issues; the role of sound science in contemporary environmental policy; and experience in researching and presenting a contemporary environmental science topic.

ESP 5040 Environmental Consulting - 3 credits
This course is designed to train students on scientific degree tracks to become valuable employees in the environmental consulting industry by introducing them to the technical skills, project planning and business management skills in demand by environmental consulting firms. The course focuses on the technical aspects in areas such as brown-field redevelopment, natural resources and environmental permitting, environmental compliance, sustainable development planning, etc. Course elements stress the use of industry-standard procedures and state regulations, data and information management, report preparation, development of findings and opinions, and verbal presentations.

ESP 5120 Ecology and History of the White Mountains of New Hampshire - 3 credits
This course will be a survey of the history and workings of the forests of the White Mountain region. The course will focus on the northern hardwood forest, but also include the spruce/fir zone and tundra. Class periods will emphasize the reading and discussion of the primary literature, texts and popular writings, such as the multitude of good logging-era books. Field trips will be a key component of the course.

ESP 5140 Winter Ecology - 3 credits
Winter Ecology examines the natural processes and stresses of cold environments and how plants and animals adapt to winter and cold climates. The ecologically important aspects of wintertime physical and biological conditions are explored. Causes of winter and the dynamics of cold temperatures, snow and ice are investigated.

ESP 5150 Glacial and Periglacial Geology - 3 credits
Glaciation has strongly shaped the New England landscape and blanketed it with diverse sediments that influence its hydrology, biology and human development. The ice sheets of Greenland and Antarctica, themselves of significant societal concern, are remnants of ice sheets that formerly covered 0 percent of the earth's land surface. The course will introduce glaciers and the processes and products of glacier and cold-region erosion and deposition. The course will emphasize the development, form and properties of New England glacial sediments but cover the global record. The glacial-geologic methods learned will be applied to on-going investigations of glacier and climate history around the planet.

ESP 5210 Forest Science - 3 credits
This course will provide an introduction to the fundamentals of forest science and the environmental issues central to contemporary forest management. Topics to be covered include forest values, forest ecology, forest soils, forest stressors, biodiversity, monitoring and management. A field trip to the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest and another location in the White Mountain National Forest is included.

ESP 5300 Field Methods in Water Resources - 1 credit
This course will focus on hydrologic and climatic field measurements and computations useful in watershed management and hydrology. It will involve the collection, compilation and interpretation of data and assessing error, and learning about fundamental hydrologic properties. Course complements Watershed Hydrology.

ESP 5310 Snow Hydrology - 2 credits
This course will look at the role of snow in the hydrologic cycle with emphasize on measurements, atmospheric formation, snow distribution and metamorphosis, snowmelt and accumulation, runoff prediction, snow chemistry, and forest and land-use interaction effects. This is a field and lecture based course taught over an intensive period in the winter. Prerequisite: A physical geography, hydrology or equivalent course or permission of the instructor.

ESP 5320 Watershed Hydrology - 3 credits
This course will provide a qualitative and quantitative understanding of concepts and physical principles governing the occurrence, distribution and circulation of water near the Earth's surface. Emphasis will be on the physical understanding and parameterization of hydrologic processes such as how rainfall and snowmelt become streamflow, evapotranspiration and groundwater. This course is expected to serve as prerequisite to Watershed Management and Snow Hydrology, and co- or prerequisite to Field Methods in Water Resources.

ESP 5330 Watershed Management and Planning - 3 credits
Managing human impacts on watersheds and water resources, and understanding the interrelationships among land use, soil and water will be addressed. Watershed management will focus on controlling the amount and timing of water yield, stormflow, water quality and sedimentation, with socio-economic considerations. Human uses of and impacts on water are examined with an emphasis on principles of water resource and watershed planning. Prerequisite: A prior hydrology course or permission from the instructor.

ESP 5390 Travel Study in Environmental Science and Policy - 2-3 credits
Periodically, travel study courses will be offered that explore environmental science and policy topics and methods in different environments. These courses are designed to enhance students' skills and understanding with an emphasis on the transferability of these skills to other regions.

ESP 5410 Alpine Environments - 2 credits
This seminar course will focus on the alpine and subalpine environments of New Hampshire including the region's flora and fauna, geology, climate, as well as human influences including recreational uses. The course includes a field portion that is integral to the course content and involves fairly strenuous hiking, since alpine areas lie at high elevations. Students should be prepared to hike 7-10 miles per fieldtrip with elevation changes ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet.

ESP 5420 Applied Hydrogeology - 3 credits
This course provides comprehensive coverage of groundwater hydrology and the role of water in geologic processes from theory (i.e., principles governing the flow of groundwater) to practice with application to issues of groundwater supply, contamination, and resource management. Practical experience is gained through the use of real data sets and by the investigation of real-world problems.

ESP 5500 Special Topics in Environmental Science and Policy - 1-4 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or, as an alternative methodology, a faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

ESP 5510 Limnology - 3 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or, as an alternative methodology, a faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

ESP 5520 Chemical Limnology - 3 credits
Chemical Limnology is the second course in the limnology series, providing students with an expanded understanding of the physico-chemical processes that control surface water chemistry. Students will work with the substantial databases available for New England lakes, evaluating current scientific and regulatory issues, and data validation methods. Lakes will be studied as systems that are chemically integrated with their watersheds. The focus will be on major analytes and how lakes function, although the course content may include topical issues such as trace metal mercury biogeochemistry, depending on the interests of the students. Each graduate student will lead a class session on a topic of their choice in the second half of the course. Students are expected to have a general understanding of how lakes function, familiarity with chemical principles, experience with spreadsheets or database software.

ESP 5570 Humboldt Field Courses - 2-3 credits
The Humboldt Field Research Institute is based in Downeast coastal Maine and is known for an extensive series of advanced and professional-level natural history field seminars offered since 987. HFRI is east of the Schoodic section of Acadia National Park and west of the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge and provides an excellent site for teaching field techniques. Weeklong summer field course and seminars are taught by recognized international experts and cover a broad range of specialized subjects, including many that are not typically taught at academic institutions. These courses will give students an opportunity to learn field research techniques on a variety of topics. There will be an extra fee for room and board.

ESP 5590 Data Visualization and Communication - 2 credits
Visualizing data and communicating their meaning is an important part of science and translating science to laypersons. This course will explore communicating data effectively to technical and non-technical audiences. Students will learn how to display different types of environmentally related data and communicate study results successfully in presentations and written formats. This course contributes to the communication requirement of the M.S. in ES&P program.

ESP 5610 Environment and Society - 3 credits
This course will introduce students to the study of environmental sociology and develop critical thinking skills facilitated by the application of sociological perspectives. Environmental issues and problems are often viewed as technical ones, to be resolved by the application of scientific and technical means alone. This common perception will be critically examined in this class. Environmental problems are problems for society that challenge and threaten our current system of organization, and are also problems of society. This class will examine material, ideal and practical elements of environmental issues. Current environmental problems and policy issues will be debated, and their connections with society and culture will be the focus of the course. The meanings of nature and wilderness will be discussed. Other topics include environmental justice, the history and workings of the environmental movement, greenwashing, public attitudes towards the environment and the idea of sustainability.

ESP 5640 Methods of Social Research - 3 credits
We encounter information about cultures and society in many ways throughout our lives. This course will enable students to become more astute and critical consumers of social research studies through exploring the thinking behind social research and the methods used to collect, analyze and report the findings of the social sciences. Students will gain knowledge in research design and implement an actual study of social phenomena. Skills to be presented include theory application and construction, operationalizing variables, evaluating strengths and weaknesses of research methodologies, determining causality, sampling, hypothesis formulation and testing, data collection, analysis and depiction, and proposal writing.

ESP 5650 Social Movements and Environmental Justice - 3 credits
Sociological examinations of social movements attempt to address one of the most important questions in sociology - how does social and cultural change actually happen? Many of the characteristics of modern society that we take for granted, such as environmental awareness, voting rights and organized labor, have their origins in the struggles of organized social movements. This course will examine the ways different social theorists and researchers analyze social movements through a focus on the environmental justice movement. The environmental justice movement asserts that throughout the world there are marked and increasing disparities between those who have access to clean and safe resources and those who do not. In this and other aspects, the environmental justice perspective differs from traditional environmental philosophies in that it seeks to combine a concern for the natural world with a consciousness of ethnic, class and gender discrimination.

ESP 5660 Principles of Interpretation - 3 credits
This course introduces students to the basic principles and practices of the art and profession of interpretation. After completing this course students will be able to understand and relate a working definition of interpretation; discuss the history, principles and philosophy of interpretation as it is practiced in natural resource settings; describe the basics of visitor evaluation; illustrate basic skills in interpretive research, oral presentation development and exhibit development; demonstrate development of interpretive themes, goals and objectives; and demonstrate competency in making thematic oral presentations and producing interpretive exhibits. For an additional fee to the National Association for Interpretation, students will have an opportunity to become a certified Interpretive Guide (CIG). This option will be explained in class at the beginning of the semester.

ESP 5680 Social Marketing in Environmental Education - 3 credits
Social Marketing in Environmental Education will examine effective stewardship or environmental education outreach programs that apply strategic communications, marketing, branding and evaluation processes which foster sustainable behavioral change toward stewarding natural resources. The course will focus on research studies on effective programs and how the best practices can inform design of new initiatives. Participants will examine prevailing public environmental attitudes and knowledge, explore the issue of motivating people beyond knowledge to action, and review the role of Social Marketing in behavior change and environmental education.

ESP 5700 Graduate Seminar in Ecology and the Environment - 3 credits
This graduate seminar focuses on how ecological concepts and studies inform scientists about the nature of and solutions to environmental problems. Specific topics vary from year to year depending upon the interests of the faculty and the students enrolled. Regardless of the specific topics, each will clearly demonstrate the central role of ecology in understanding ecosystem function and how ecosystems respond to disturbances at multiple scales. Through readings and discussion, students become versed in ecological theory and practice. The concepts are fleshed out through case studies taken directly from peer-reviewed literature.

ESP 5710 Science Colloquium Series - 1 credit
This graduate seminar is designed to be a core course in the Environmental Science and Policy program. It will focus on the analysis of contemporary issues in environmental science. Specific topics will vary from year to year and will be tailored to the interests of the students enrolled and faculty interests. The course will create a foundation of knowledge of contemporary issues. It is also expected that it will help students refine their research interests as well as be exposed to new ideas through interaction with others in the course.

ESP 5720 Land Use Planning Seminar - 1-3 credits
Land use planning is a dynamic field that involves the integration of a variety of components to improve communities and places. This graduate seminar will focus on furthering knowledge on specific topics related to planning and explore interrelationships between topics. Topics might include smart growth, low impact design, transportation, energy, sustainable design, drinking water protection, housing, economic development and community involvement.

ESP 5900 Master's Thesis Research - 1-8 credits
Students select a topic in consultation with their advisor and committee. A timeline, proposal and defense are outlined. A final thesis is prepared in accordance with program thesis guidelines.

ESP 5910 Independent Study in Environmental Science and Policy - 1-3 credits
Independent study provides enrichment of the background of students through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. It is an opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in environmental science or policy. Consent of a faculty supervisor and the student's advisor is required.

ESP 5920 Independent Environmental Research - 1-4 credits
Students select a topic and project in consultation with their advisor and committee. Collaboration with external organizations and partners is encouraged. A timeline, goals, deliverables, credits and expected outcomes are outlined for each project.

to top of page

Environmental Science

EV 5230 Fresh Water Biology - 4 credits
An introduction to the aquatic environment, including the freshwater, marine and estuarian systems. Special emphasis placed upon physical, chemical, geological and biologic variables. An ecological approach stressing zones of life, habitats and population-community interactions. Laboratory and fieldwork are important components of the course. Summer only.

EV 5360 Marine Biology - 4 credits
An introduction to the organisms and their habitats for the coastal marine and estuarine environment of New England. This will be a field and laboratory study of the conspicuous marine plants and animals of the New England coast. Particular attention will be given to the collection, identification, distribution, reproduction and ecology of intertidal marine groups. Extensive fieldwork is required. Summer.

EV 5370 Wetland Community Ecology - 4 credits
This course will introduce students to unique wetland habitats using field observation, research and the principles of community ecology. We will examine a variety of wetland communities, paying particular attention to wetlands commonly found in New England. We will discuss their ecological properties and the physical factors that control these properties, including hydrology, species interactions, disturbance and succession. We will also discuss the local and national conservation practices, their successes and failures, and complete a writing project.

EV 5560 Special Topics in Environmental Science - 1-4 credits
An in-depth study of a particular topic, contemporary issue or concern. The course will be taught by a specialist within the field being studied or, as an alternative methodology, a faculty member will coordinate a series of guest speakers who will meaningfully address the topic. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor.

EV 5800 Practicum in Environmental Science Education - 1-3 credits
A supervised field experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience through applying knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. Commitment includes a negotiated number of hours per week. Supervision is by the institution or agency concerned and by Plymouth faculty.

EV 5910 Independent Study in Environmental Science - 1-3 credits
Enrichment of the background of students in education through the pursuit of a special topic pertinent to their interests and abilities. An opportunity for an in-depth study of a problem in the field of education. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Meteorology

MT 5110 Air Quality - 3 credits
This course addresses various aspects of the air quality subject. We will discuss the types of air pollutants, their sources, chemistry and effects on humans and the environment. We will analyze how meteorological conditions enhance or reduce the air quality of a specific region. We will produce air quality forecasts. We will also discuss current issues such as air quality monitoring and air pollution regulations. Prerequisite: MT 4300 and any computer programming course.

MT 5200 Transportation Meteorology - 3 credits
Students will learn the various weather systems that affect different modes of transportation. In particular we will study road weather, aviation meteorology and oceanic meteorology. Advanced weather analysis and forecasting skills will be applied in order to make forecasts tailored to various industries. Prerequisite: MT 4300, MT 4320 and any computer programming course.

MT 5300 Synoptic Meteorology II - 4 credits
Intermediate weather analysis and forecasting techniques are used to understand synoptic-scale weather systems with an emphasis on structure and evolution of extra-tropical cyclones. Topics include climatology of mid-latitude surface and upper-air flow regimes and extratropical cyclogenesis, life cycle of extratropical cyclones including frontal evolutions, application of hydrodynamical equations and balanced systems to weather analysis and forecasting, ageostrophic winds, and jet stream circulations. Students participate in weekly exercises culminating in a quantitative precipitation forecasting exercise at the end of the term. This course is co-listed with MT 4300 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5310 Dynamic Meteorology I - 3 credits
This course is an introduction to geophysical fluid dynamics including the development of the fundamental equations governing atmospheric motion, basic approximations, simplified flows and physical interpretation of the corresponding theory. Fall term. This course is co-listed with MT 4310 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5320 Dynamic Meteorology II - 3 credits
This course will cover the advanced topics in geophysical fluid dynamics including circulation theory, vorticity, planetary boundary layer, quasi-geostrophic theory and introductory numerical modeling concepts. Spring term. This course is co-listed with MT 4320 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5330 Satellite Meteorology - 3 credits
This course will provide students with a broad foundation on the history, theory, data and knowledge of meteorological satellites/sensors, so that they will be able to interpret and fully utilize these data for operational and/or research applications and understand their capabilities and limitations.

MT 5340 Radar Meteorology - 3 credits
This course will provide a broad overview of the hardware/ theory behind the application of meteorological radar data. The course will begin with a short history of radar meteorology, which will be followed by a brief summary of the radar hardware and theory applicable to meteorological use and interpretation - beam spreading, ducting, anomalous propagation, etc. The differences between reflectivity, Doppler and polarimetric measurements will also be discussed. Much of the remainder of the course will be used to cover the different levels of NEXRAD data, the available products for each level, algorithms used to automatically analyze these data and application to real world problems, such as quantitative precipitation estimates and severe local storms detection. Prerequisite: MT 4300, MT 4320, MT 4410.

MT 5350 Boundary Layer Meteorology - 3 credits
This course is designed to provide the student with the fundamentals of atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) behavior, where the atmosphere is highly influenced by the earth's surface. The student will develop an appreciation for the role of the ABL in the overall dynamics of the atmosphere. Specifically, students will come to understand the importance of fluxes in the ABL, the general diurnal structure of the ABL, the principles of turbulent flow, including Monin-Obukhov similarity theory, the application of Reynolds averaging and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) dissipation.

MT 5410 Atmospheric Physics - 3 credits
This course will provide an application of the basic laws of physics to atmospheric processes. Topics discussed include gravitational effects, properties of atmospheric gases, cloud physics, solar and terrestrial radiation, atmospheric electricity, and optical and acoustical phenomena. Fall term. This course is co-listed with MT 4410 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5430 Climate Change - 3 credits
This course will provide an overview of the methods for examining climate change. Included are time series analysis and climate proxies such as tree-ring analysis, oxygen-18/ oxygen-16 ratios, pollen and carbon-14 dating. Also covered are a variety of possible causal factors such as orbital variations, plate tectonics, volcanic eruptions, CO2 variations and El Nino. The results of paleoclimatic modeling are also discussed. Spring term of odd years. This course is co-listed with MT 4330 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5450 Advanced Synoptic Meteorology - 3 credits
Use of advanced analytical techniques for multiscale weather systems throughout the globe with an emphasis on synoptic-scale, mid-latitude weather. Topics include forecasting applications of the quasi-geostrophic height tendency and omega equations, frontogenesis, Q-vector analysis, isentropic analysis, Hovmoller diagrams, potential vorticity concepts, and the use of dynamic tropopause maps. Weekly weather discussions and forecasting exercises focus on these advanced techniques and areas of current or future applied research topics. Recent articles in the scientific literature are reviewed and used throughout the course. Fall terms. This course is co-listed with MT 4450 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5470 Micrometeorology - 3 credits
Students will study the processes involving the exchange of momentum, heat and moisture between the lowest portion of the atmosphere and the underlying surface of the earth. Topics will include local energy budgets, soil heat transfer, the planetary boundary layer, turbulence, and neutral and diabatic surface layers. Spring term of even years. This course is co-listed with MT 4470 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5550 Topics in Meteorology - 3 credits
A rotating series of courses relating to major subdisciplines of meteorology. Topics will include mesometeorology, tropical meteorology and numerical weather prediction. May be repeated so that students can receive exposure to a variety of subject areas not covered in depth in the primary curriculum. This course is co-listed with MT 4550 in the undergraduate curriculum.

MT 5600 Computer Applications in Meteorology - 3 credits
This course is designed as an intense introduction to the technological tools and techniques used by professional meteorologists in the analysis and display of meteorological and environmental data. Students will learn programming methodology and become proficient in the use of a number of open source and commercial software packages.

MT 5620 Numerical Weather Predictions - 3 credits
This course is designed to acquaint students with the concepts, procedures and problems associated with numerical weather prediction through discussion and actual computer applications with real and simulated data. Students will also learn about the configuration and capabilities of current operational numerical prediction models.

MT 5700 Graduate Seminar Meteorology - 1 credit
Provides graduate students with a forum to publicly present and discuss their results from literature reviews, case studies and/or research. This is a required course for all M.S. in Applied Meteorology students. TThis course can be repeated for credit three times for a total of three credits.

MT 5800 Thesis Research - 1-6 credits
Students will develop and present a thesis research proposal, conduct detailed research, write a thesis and defend the research before a faculty committee. Signature of the faculty supervisor and the Meteorology Graduate Program coordinator is required.

MT 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Studies undertaken will be defined by students and subject to approval by appropriate staff members. Work may involve reading; conferences; historical, experimental or theoretical projects; field investigation; statistical surveys; combinations of the foregoing or other activities deemed appropriate. Students may work in a physical or biological science or in interdisciplinary areas. Students may not be granted more than three credits. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Natural Science

NS 5090 Special Topics in Secondary School Science - 1-6 credits
A focused study in one of the science disciplines: life, earth or physical sciences. course could include field, laboratory, computer and classroom study under the supervision of a faculty member with expertise in the area. can be taken more than once. Unscheduled.

NS 5100 Revolution in Science - 3 credits
An inquiry into the way scientific models of understanding nature are reached with particular emphasis on the concept of revolutionary change in explanation. The course will consider what science is capable of knowing and how it differs with technology. Several specific revolutions will be examined, including the scientific revolution of Galileo and Newton, Lavoisier's chemical revolution, Darwin's evolution, continental drift, DNA and genetics, and relativity. Also, the role of women in science will be scrutinized to see if a revolution in the involvement of that gender has been achieved. Finally, students will attempt to foresee what revolutions might be going on now or might occur in the future.

NS 5200 Action Research in Science Education - 3 credits
This course is designed to be a core course offering in the M.S. in Science Education program. It will assist graduate students to design their action research as it relates specifically to science teaching, learning and curriculum in middle and high school classrooms. This course will help students conceptualize and design a practical and applied classroom research project that could be the basis for presentation as the capstone experience in their graduate program. The course emphasizes a contructivist philosophy of education. The emphasis is on the teacher as inquirer actively engaged in the construction of new knowledge about science education. Emphasis is placed on telecommunication networking of teachers who are actively involved in action research projects.

NS 5260 A Forest for Every Classroom - 3 credits
This course will educate middle and high school teachers working in New Hampshire communities about forest stewardship issues and provide them with tools to develop curricula that meet the state's educational standards and can be implemented using their local landscape, resources and community for real world teaching. Prerequisite: Teaching.

NS 5300 Astrobiology - 3 credits
This course is an interdisciplinary study centered on the search for life in the universe. Students will participate in inquiry based activities and discussion in biology, physics and robotics to explore the science of astrobiology. Students will gain hands-on experience with available online resources and current science technology enabling them to use astrobiology in the classroom to engage students in the scientific process. Prerequisite: Graduate student/teacher.

NS 5400 Marine Education Methods - 3 credits
This is a multi-disciplinary marine education methods course that integrates economic, cultural, historical and ecosystem considerations for learning about the marine environment. The goal is to help educators increase public understanding of critical New Hampshire marine and coastal issues. Special attention will be given to stewardship education of marine resources. concepts of sustainable harvesting and participatory management will be emphasized. Field trips to visit marine research and education facilities on the coast will be a critical component. Dynamic, interactive Web resources, including virtual fieldtrips, will also be identified. A culminating component of the course will be organizing and advertising a community-based family marine activity night sponsored by the course participants. This event will provide enrolled University students with firsthand experience in implementing and evaluating hands-on marine science learning for youth, parents, teachers and other interested environmental educators. All materials will be aligned with national and international education standards across disciplines, including standards in environmental literacy and technology.

NS 5560 Special Topics in Elementary School Science - 3 credits
A laboratory/discussion-oriented content course for K-6 teachers to address specific topics in the earth, physical and life sciences. Text readings, research articles and developing a curriculum unit are required. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission of the instructor. Prerequisite: Restricted to those who are currently teaching.

NS 5600 Field Experience in Science Education - 3 credits
This course is one of the core offerings in the M.A.T. in Science program. It is a supervised placement with a science or environmental agency that offers educational programming with student groups of various ages. Students will be required to assist in the development of programs, and teach and assess participant learning in these settings. Examples of such organizations include the Squam Lakes Natural Science center, N.H. Fish and Game Department, Squam Lakes Association, N.H. Audubon Society, PSU Mindflight Summer Program, N.H. Department of Environmental Services and the PSU Planetarium Program to name several.

NS 5700 Science Teaching Middle and High School - 3 credits
This course is designed to be a core course offering in both the M.S. in Science Education and the M.A.T. in Science programs. Several major themes such as learning theory, structure of the discipline (curriculum), teaching strategies, and nature of science and technology applications will be presented throughout the course. The course is structured to help students develop the proficiencies needed to become a successful science teacher. As an advanced learner, you will be given a great deal of independence in your learning about secondary school science teaching.

NS 5800 Seminar: Current Issues in Science Education - 3 credits
Current Issues, a core course in the M.S. in Science Education program, will provide the opportunity for classroom science teachers to identify and discuss practical issues that apply to their classroom as well as address state, national and international issues. current research findings will be used as the focus for seminar discussions, papers and projects.

NS 5850 Capstone Research Project - 4 credits
This course is designed as a core course offering in the M.A.T. and M.S. in Science Education programs. The intent of this course is to implement the classroom-based research strategies developed in the action research course to promote improvement of existing teaching and learning strategies in the classroom. A research committee will be formed to assess the effectiveness of the study. A formal presentation will be made to faculty and other graduate students in one of the science colloquia during the academic year.

NS 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Studies undertaken will be defined by students and subject to approval by appropriate staff members. Work may involve reading, conferences, historical, experimental or theoretical projects, field investigation, statistical surveys, combinations of the foregoing or other activities deemed appropriate. Students may work in the physical or biological sciences, or in interdisciplinary areas. Students may not be granted more than three credits. consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page

Physics

PH 5910 Independent Study - 1-3 credits
Studies undertaken will be defined by students and subject to approval by appropriate staff members. Work may involve reading, conferences, historical, experimental or theoretical projects, field investigation, statistical surveys, combinations of the foregoing or other activities deemed appropriate. Students may work in the physical or biological sciences or in interdisciplinary areas. Students may not be granted more than three credits. Consent of a faculty supervisor, department chair and the Associate Vice President is required.

to top of page
Plymouth State University, 17 High Street, Plymouth, NH 03264-1595. Main Switchboard: (603) 535-5000.
A member of the University System of New Hampshire. ©2005-2008. All rights reserved.
This page was last revised: 10/14/2009