Apr 18, 2024  
Fitchburg State University 2012-2013 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
Fitchburg State University 2012-2013 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Music

  
  • MUSC 3800 - History of Jazz


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Spring. Also offered evenings.

    This course introduces students to the history of jazz and investigates the musical elements that make up jazz. The role of jazz in American history is explored, and various musical trends that contributed to jazz are traced. AOM, ART

  
  • MUSC 3900 - Women, Music, and Society


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Spring. Also offered evenings.

    This course looks at the contributions of significant women in music. Compositions by women from different cultures are examined as a reflection of the social, political and economic conditions. Elements of form, structure and historical style are studied from antiquity to modern times in musical genres such as symphony, opera, chamber music, song and solo repertoire. AOM, ART, GDA

  
  • MUSC 4901 - Independent Study in Music


    1-3 cr. 1-3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The Independent Study is for selected students who have approval of both the department head and their advising instructor.

  
  • MUSC 4902 - Independent Study in Music


    1-3 cr. 1-3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The Independent Study is for selected students who have approval of both the department head and their advising instructor.

  
  • MUSC 4903 - Independent Study in Music


    1-3 cr. 1-3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The Independent Study is for selected students who have approval of both the department head and their advising instructor.

  
  • MUSC 4940 - Internship in Music


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

  
  • MUSC 4975 - Directed Study


    1-6 cr.


Nursing

  
  • NURS 2300 - Health Assessment


    3 cr. 5 hr. Day course offered in the Fall.

    This course provides a foundation for nursing assessment of the adult client. Interviewing techniques, health history taking, physical assessment and critical thinking skills are developed. Normal findings and deviations from normal are explored. Changes related to age are discussed. A clinical component allows students to apply classroom knowledge.

    Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1100  and ENGL 1200 , PSY 1100 , SOC 1100 , BIOL 1200 and BIOL 1300 , and CHEM 1200 .
  
  • NURS 2400 - Transition from LPN to Professional Nursing


    1 cr. 1 hr. Offered every fall.

    This course focuses on the transition from the Licensed Practical Nurse to the Baccalaureate prepared registered nurse.  Emphasis will be placed on the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing Nurse Practice Act in context of legal accountability and responsibility.  Emphasis will be placed on the changing and expansion of critial thinking as a Registered Nurse.  Included will be an exploration fo the RN’s role within the interdisciplinary health care team.

    Prerequisite(s): Matriculation into the LPN-BS program,   and  ,  ,  ,   and  ,  ,  
  
  • NURS 2500 - Pathopharmacology I


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Fall.

    This is the first course of a two-course sequence, which integrates concepts from pathophysiology and pharmacology. The content focuses on alterations in physiology that produce clinical responses in the body. Pharmacology is introduced as one modality used in the treatment of disease. Theories of stress, adaptation, and systems provide the basis for understanding how the body adjusts or fails to adjust to disease processes.

    Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1100  and ENGL 1200 , PSY 1100 , SOC 1100 , BIOL 1200 and BIOL 1300 , and CHEM 1200 .
  
  • NURS 2600 - Pathopharmacology II


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Spring.

    This is the second course of a two-course sequence, which integrates concepts from pathophysiology and pharmacology. Pharmacology is applied as one modality used in the treatment of disease. Pathophysiological changes as a result of disease processes in specific systems are explored.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 2500 .
  
  • NURS 2700 - Foundations


    4 cr. 6 hr. Day course offered in the Fall.

    This course is designed to be the foundation for nursing knowledge and theory. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, caring, communication, cultural considerations, spirituality, sexuality and health promoting activities. The nursing process is used as a framework for content. Students complete laboratory experiences focusing on basic skills.

    Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1200 , PSY 1100 SOC 1100 , BIOL 1200  and BIOL 1300 , and CHEM 1200 . Pre or corerequisites: NURS 2500  and  , NURS 2300  or BIOL 1650 .
  
  • NURS 2900 - Medical-Surgical Nursing I


    4 cr. 8 hr.

    This course establishes the foundation for core concepts in the nursing care of adults with common health alterations. The development of critical thinking skills is emphasized. Nursing care is presented using a nursing process framework. Clinical experiences occur in acute care agencies.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 2300 , NURS 2500 , and NURS 2900  Pre or corerequisites: NURS 2600 , BIOL 1650 , BIOL 2700 ,  .
  
  • NURS 3101 - LPN: Nursing Care of the Medical Surgical Patient


    4 cr. 8 hr. Offered every summer.

    This course provides the LPN with an understanding of the medical-surgical patient from the perspective of the registered nurse.  Nursing process and the expansion of critical thinking to the level of the registered nurse are stressed.  This course places emphasis on the professional nurse’s care of the patient with complex medical-surgical issues in the acute care clinical setting.

    Note: Required for students transitioning from LPN to BS in Nursing. Prerequisite(s): Matriculation into the LPN-BS program,  ,  ,  ,  ,  , and   or permission of instructor.
  
  • NURS 3200 - Core Concepts of Mental Health Nursing


    5 cr. 9 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    This course reviews mental health nursing concepts for individuals experiencing health alterations. Course content focuses on the etiology and treatment of mental disorders, emphasizing principles of therapeutic communication, and the application of nursing assessment and intervention. Students analyze the influence of culture, perceptions and environment on behavior exhibited by individuals, families and groups related to mental health issues. Clinical experience occurs in acute and community care agencies.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 2300 , NURS 2600 , and NURS 2900 , BIOL 1650  and BIOL 2700 .
  
  • NURS 3300 - Maternal-Newborn Nursing


    5 cr. 9 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    This course provides a foundation for care of the childbearing family. Health promotion for the developing family is emphasized in community and acute-care settings. Care of both the well and high-risk woman and newborn is included in a family-centered approach. Clinical experiences are offered in the community and the hospital.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 2300 , NURS 2600 , and NURS 2900 , BIOL 1650  and BIOL 2700 .
  
  • NURS 3400 - Medical-Surgical Nursing II


    5 cr. 9 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    This course addresses to teach the nursing care of adults with acute medical and surgical conditions. Holistic care of clients with respect for diversity is stressed. The nursing process is used as a framework to guide content. Clinical experience occurs in acute care facilities.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 2300 , NURS 2600 , and NURS 2900 , BIOL 1650  and BIOL 2700 .
  
  • NURS 3500 - Concepts of Nursing I


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Spring. Also offered evenings.

    This is one of two courses designed to provide advance placement for the registered nurse student that can be taken concurrently with Nursing Concepts II. The evolution and development of theoretical models of nursing as well as other historical precedents are investigated. The focus of the clinical component is utilization of the functional health pattern format to assess the health status of clients and the development of a nursing history.

    Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1200 , BIOL 1300 , BIOL 2700 , PSY 1100 ,  , SOC 1100 , pre or corequisite ACE II Exams or equivalent.
  
  • NURS 3501 - LPN: Nursing Care of the Family


    5 cr. 9 hr. Offered every summer.

    This course provides the LPN with an introduction to the role of the bachelor’s prepared registered nurse in the care of the child-bearing family, family health promotion, high risk maternal-newborn care and clinical decision making.  This course places emphasis on the multisystem pediatric and family-centered issues, complex nursing assessment with community and hospital based patients and families.

    Note: Required for students transitioning from LPN to BS in Nursing. Prerequisite(s): Matriculation into the LPN-BS Program,  
  
  • NURS 3600 - Concepts of Nursing II


    3 cr. 5 hr. Day course offered in the Spring. Also offered evenings.

    This is one of two courses designed to provide advance placement for the registered nurse student that can be taken concurrently with Nursing Concepts I. Selected nursing diagnoses within the format of functional health patterns are addressed. Students are provided the opportunity to explore the interdependence of the multiple elements of the nursing process applied to selected case studies.

    Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1200 , BIOL 1300 , BIOL 2700 , PSY 1100 ,   , SOC 1100 , pre or corequisite ACE II Exams or equivalent.
  
  • NURS 3650 - Portfolio Preparation


    1 cr. 1 hr. Day course offered in the Spring. Also offered evenings.

    Introduces registered nurse students to the concept of portfolio preparation for advanced placement. Assists students in development of professional portfolio.

    Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1200 , BIOL 1200  and BIOL 1300 , BIOL 2700 , PSY 1100 ,  , SOC 1100 , pre or co-requisite ACE II exams.
  
  • NURS 3900 - Pediatric Nursing


    5 cr. 9 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    This course teaches the theoretical base and clinical experience in caring for infants, children and adolescents. The focus is the major and most common disorders of infants, children and adolescents. The nursing process is the basis for providing care in a variety of settings. Health promotion aspects of preventing or alleviating health problems are addressed Clinical experience occurs in acute care agencies.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 2300 , NURS 2600 , and NURS 2900 , BIOL 1650  and BIOL 2700 .
  
  • NURS 4000 - Nursing Research


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Fall. Also offered evenings.

    This course prepares students as knowledgeable research consumers. Nursing students identify and explore research problems in nursing practice. The focuses are to improve utilization of evidence-based practice and participate in research as knowledgeable participants. In addition to core lectures and discussion sessions, classroom activities are provided to enhance the learning experience.

    Prerequisite(s): MATH 1700 . NURS 3600  or NURS 3200 , NURS 3300 , NURS 3400  and NURS 3900 .
  
  • NURS 4400 - Community Health Nursing


    5 cr. 9 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course focuses on systems concepts as a basis for applying the nursing process with aggregate clients in the community. Special emphasis is placed on nursing care of vulnerable populations including the homeless, people of poverty, minority populations, women and children, and older adults. Primary, secondary and tertiary prevention measures are used when applying the nursing process in a variety of distributive care settings. Clinical experience occurs in community agencies.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 3600  and NURS 3650  or NURS 3200 , NURS 3300 , NURS 3400 , NURS 3900  and NURS 4000 . For RN’s only  
  
  • NURS 4500 - Nursing in a Global Community


    2 cr. 2 hr. Offered in the Summer only. Also offered evenings.

    Culturally competent health care is required for professional nursing practice. Culture extends beyond traditional boundaries of race and ethnicity to other marginalized populations including sub-cultures within society. This course will explore challenges to providing such competent care in professional nursing practice generated by language, race, ethnicity, health beliefs and practices, sexual orientation, and sub-culture affiliation. Additionally, specific barriers to culturally competent care including biases and stereotypes will be challenged in this course.

  
  • NURS 4510 - End of Life Care


    3 cr. 3 hr. Offered in the Summer only. Also offered evenings.

    This course provides students will the knowledge needed to provide care for clients at the end of life. The Neuman Systems Model is used as a theoretical framework to guide nurses as they assess and intervene in physiological, psychological, socio-cultural, developmental, and spiritual dimensions of client care. There is a focus to improve utilization of evidence-based and participate in research as knowledgeable participants. Communication, an interactive, negotiable human response as well as the foundation for growth, facilitates the process of the helping relationship at the end of life. In addition to lectures, class participation, and the discussion of case studies enhance the learning process.

  
  • NURS 4520 - Caring for Forensic Populations


    3 cr. 3 hr. Offered in the Summer only. Also offered evenings.

    Violence occurring in the home, community, and health care institutions has a negative effect on client health and on providers of care. Preventing and reducing the consequences of violence is an integral component of professional nursing practice. Early identification and intervention with potential and actual victims and perpetrators of violence can reduce negative health outcomes. This course explores the individual, socio-cultural, environmental, and systemic factors related to violence and trauma. Necessary professional forensic nursing competencies and roles will be explored. Student will learn specific forensic health assessment, violence prevention and intervention strategies.

  
  • NURS 4750 - Chronic Illness


    5 cr. 9 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    This course teaches the application of the nursing process with individuals and families in the home care setting. Emphasis is placed on primary, secondary and tertiary prevention, along with interdependence between client/family and environment. The application of critical thinking to clinical situations provides the framework for the classroom component of the course.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 3200 , NURS 3300 , NURS 3400  and NURS 3900 .
  
  • NURS 4800 - Selected Nursing Practicum


    9 cr. 15 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This capstone course in the final semester of the nursing program gives students the opportunity to strengthen clinical knowledge and skills in preparation for entry into practice. Having both a registered nurse clinical preceptor as well as a faculty preceptor allows for the integration of classroom and laboratory content into the clinical setting. The classroom component uses a case study method to foster discussion and critical thinking.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 4000 , NURS 4400 , and NURS 4750 .

    Prerequisites for RN’s only: 

      and   NURS 4850 .

  
  • NURS 4850 - Leadership and Management Concepts for Nursing Practice


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course teaches concepts underlying professional career development in nursing. The roles of the nurse as manager of client care, as part of a health care institution hierarchy, and as a member of a professional collective are explored.

    Prerequisite(s): NURS 4000 , NURS 4400  and NURS 4750  Prerequisites for RN to BSN: NURS 4000 , NURS 4400 , NURS 4500 , NURS 4510  or NURS 4520 .
  
  • NURS 4901 - Independent Study


    1 cr. 1 hr. Day course offered every Semester. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

  
  • NURS 4902 - Independent Study


    2 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

  
  • NURS 4903 - Independent Study


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

  
  • NURS 4975 - Directed Study


    1-6 cr. This course may be offered less than once every two years.


Occupational/Vocational Education

  
  • OCED 2500 - Seminar for the Beginning Vocational Technical Education Teacher


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    Designed to prepare new vocational technical teachers for their first teaching assignment, the characteristics of an effective teacher as well as the tools required by first year teachers to be successful will be explored. These include techniques for establishing effective classroom routines, student instruction and assessment, and maintaining a positive classroom/shop/laboratory climate that conveys high expectations. Students also will learn to identify the elements of a course/program curriculum, as well as how to develop a lesson plan, assign and grade homework and collaborate with colleagues to improve instruction, assessment and student achievement.

  
  • OCED 2520 - Managing Student Behavior in a Healthy and Safe Environment


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    (Formerly Management of the Vocational Technical Environment) This course is designed to prepare vocational technical teacher candidates to organize an instructional area that is conductive to high quality learning in a healthy and safe environment. A variety of discipline concepts and strategies will be presented for application in the shop/laboratory, related classroom, and cooperative education sites. Current, relevant OSHA and child labor law standards will be reviewed and plans for a comprehensive health safety plan will be developed.

  
  • OCED 2530 - Teaching Methods for Vocational Technical Education—Instructional Strategies


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    (Formerly Teaching Methods: Instructional Strategies in Vocational Technical Education) This course is designed to provide vocational technical teachers with a wide variety of researched-based teaching methods and instructional strategies. Students in this course will learn how to develop a unit of study and how learning styles, motivation and expectations influences instructional choices made by the vocational technical educator. Students will learn how to integrate vocational technical and academic content by using a balanced instruction.

  
  • OCED 3510 - Teaching Methods for Vocational Technical Education—Educating and Assessing the Vocational Technical Education Learner


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    (Formerly Teaching Methods: Educating the Vocational Technical Learner) This course is designed to provide vocational technical teachers with the knowledge and tools to instruct and assess the technical, academic and employability skills of vocational technical education students. Students in this course will be able to identify, develop and model appropriate learning activities and assessments for the vastly divergent student population in vocational-technical education.

  
  • OCED 3517 - Fundamentals of Vocational Technical Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course examines the history and philosophy of vocational technical education. The present state of federal vocational education, Chapter 731, Child Labor Laws; Chapter 622 and Title IX; and Chapter 766, State Vocational Council are covered. Additionally the course studies The National Center for Research in Vocational Education; and Federal Vocational Education Regulations.

  
  • OCED 3520 - Teaching Methods for Vocational Technical Education—Using Research-Based Practices to Develop Effective Instructional Strategies


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    (Formerly Brain Compatibility: Teaching and Learning) This course is designed to provide vocational technical teachers with an understanding of how learning styles impact instruction and learning. Vocational technical teachers will learn how to develop a teaching unit that focuses on readiness assessment, use of learning styles, attention to whole-brain teaching, interpersonal skills, knowledge and skill assessment.

  
  • OCED 3524 - Promoting Positive Social Behavior for Students with Special Needs in Vocational Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    The course provides familiarity with the continuum of services required for students with special needs in all school settings. The modifications of approach and teaching techniques which make vocational education accessible to all students are discussed in depth. A case study is required of each student in the course.

  
  • OCED 3525 - Strategies and Methods for Teaching Special Needs Students Re: Vocational Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This is a practical approach to planning instruction for special needs students in the regular class within a vocational school setting. Using a framework for applying theory in practice, teachers develop and/or attempt strategies that are applicable to their classrooms.

  
  • OCED 3526 - Implementation and Evaluation of Education Plans for Students with Special Needs


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    The course provides experience in interpreting educational prescriptions for implementation within vocational training programs. Each student designs an individualized instructional plan describing all materials, recommended methodology and techniques of evaluation.

  
  • OCED 3527 - Seminar and Practicum in Vocational Education/Special Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    Students complete a practicum or internship in an approved setting for individuals with special needs. Students are assisted in implementing the various facets of their role within a given setting. Visitations are planned not only to observe the competencies being demonstrated but to meet with school administrators in defining the role and functions. Practicum seminar is designed to assist the total group in dealing with current concerns and issues and to allow students to learn from the experiences of each other.

  
  • OCED 3530 - Developing and Implementing a Standards-Based Curriculum in Vocational Technical Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    (Formerly Competency Based Vocational Education Curriculum Development) This course is designed to provide vocational technical educators with the knowledge of the elements of a quality curriculum. Students will learn how to develop a vocational technical education curriculum and a competency-based student reporting system that incorporates the standards and performance indicators of the Academic and Vocational Technical Education Curriculum Frameworks.

  
  • OCED 3545 - Computerized Vocational Technical Curriculum Management


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course is designed to introduce the vocational technical educator to the microcomputer as a tool for curriculum, classroom record keeping, and planning. Students adapt, modify, and incorporate the excellent curricular resources developed within Massachusetts, including CBVE, MSCP and others into practical learning applications utilizing the computer. In addition to hands-on experience with a microcomputer, the course enables participants to blend classroom and laboratory learning with an emphasis on integrated software and its application within a vocational technical setting.

  
  • OCED 3546 - Integrated Vocational Technical and Academic Curriculum


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course shares, explores and investigates Massachusetts developed curricular resources, including CBVE, MSCP, Model Academic Project and LAPS, as well as nationally devised curriculum, including Principles of Technology, CBE, and others. This learning activity examines the eight methods (academic infusing, cross articulation, vocational/technical relevance, content alignment, the academy model, specialized courses/programs, employability/career path skills and the culminating/senior project) for integration identified by the National Center for Research in Vocational Education at the University of California at Berkeley.

  
  • OCED 3549 - Assessment Standards and Evaluation


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    Participants explore strategies for establishing student performance criteria, assessing student knowledge and attitudes, evaluating handson skills and determining student grades. Topics include identifying and examining existing standards and social equity in educational assessment. Methods for linking competency designed instructional objectives to evaluation and measuring instruments are reviewed, including factors related to reliability and range.

  
  • OCED 3700 - Addressing the Needs of Students with Disabilities in Vocational Technical Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    (Formerly Students with Special Needs in Vocational Technical Education) This course will provide vocational technical educators with an overview of the federal and state special education laws and regulations and how they are implemented in schools in Massachusetts. Students will learn about the elements of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the roles of special and general educators. Students will also learn how to design curriculum and instruction using the information on the IEP and how to modify their related classrooms and vocational technical shops/laboratories to accommodate students with disabilities.

  
  • OCED 4534 - Supervised Practicum in Vocational Education


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    A practicum is a modified teaching placement in a vocational technical school or equivalent field-based experience. Candidates function as pre-approved instructors with responsibility for demonstrating ability to implement various teaching models, familiarization with school policies, classroom management techniques and the coordination of educable training resources. Teaching is supervised by a cooperating teacher and monitored and evaluated by a university instructor. Practicum participants design competency-based lesson plans, participate actively in seminar discussions and complete a research assignment on educational reform. The eligible practicum time requirements are five hours a day for three or four days a week over six week period.

  
  • OCED 4595 - Advanced Computerized Vocational Technical Curriculum Management


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course provides an orientation and application of Lotus 1-2-3 for the vocational technical setting. This software is a recognized leader in the microcomputer spreadsheets market with its ease of use, size, and power. Students learn through hands-on experience how to plan, design, implement and perform analysis utilizing a microcomputer and Lotus 1-2-3. Additionally, a historical view of spreadsheets and their impact on the manner in which effective organizations operate in the planning, creating, saving, and printing of data is emphasized. Participants interpret data using database functions and by creating and printing graphs.

    Note: This course may be used as a computer science cluster requirement.

Philosophy

  
  • PHIL 1000 - Introduction to Western Philosophy


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The course serves as an introduction to the problems, methods and goals of classical and contemporary Western philosophy. Emphasis is placed upon how these differ from and relate to other fields of human knowledge. CTW, GDC

  
  • PHIL 1100 - Logic


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The course introduces techniques for analyzing the structure and validity of arguments in a natural language, such as English, as well as the concepts and principles of validity. Emphasis is on truth-functional and quantification inference, and a procedure in formal systems. SMT

  
  • PHIL 2000 - Philosophy of Education


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course seeks to trace the origin and development of major educational theories and their contemporary implications.

  
  • PHIL 2200 - Theories of Knowledge


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    The problems and methods of human knowledge are explored. Theories are presented in the light of idealism, realism, pragmatism and existentialism.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 1100 .
  
  • PHIL 2440 - American Philosophy


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    The course presents a study of American thought from the Colonial period to the present.

  
  • PHIL 2500 - Contemporary Ethical Problems


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course examines the nature of values and morality. Application of ethical theory to such controversial moral issues as criminal punishment and the death penalty, abortion, euthanasia and suicide, the ethical treatment of animals, poverty and the distribution of wealth, prejudice and discrimination, affirmative action, civil disobedience, and war will be part of the curriculum. CTW

  
  • PHIL 2550 - Introduction to Ethics


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    The course is a critical examination of the major ethical theories in classical and contemporary philosophy including Aristotle’s perfectionism, Aquinas’ natural law ethics, Kant’s deontological ethics, Bentham and Mill’s utilitarianism, existentialism, emotivism, and personalism. Topics covered include values and facts; morality and ethics; objectivism, subjectivism, and relativism; ethics and science; and ethics and religion.

  
  • PHIL 2600 - Philosophy of Human Nature


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The course provides an exploration of human nature or personhood from the triple perspectives of philosophy, religion and behavioral science. The class focuses on the following thinkers and movements: Plato, Christianity, early modern individualism, Marxism, Freud, existentialism, Frankl’s logotherapy, Skinner, Fromm’s humanism and personalism. CTW, GDC

  
  • PHIL 3310 - Ancient and Medieval Philosophy


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    The course studies the beginnings of Western philosophy, including the pre-Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and several other thinkers of the period.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 1100 .
  
  • PHIL 3330 - Renaissance and Modern Philosophy


    3 cr. 3 hr. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    The course explores trends of thought from 14th century nominalism through the renaissance to continental rationalism and British empiricism.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 2600 .
  
  • PHIL 3340 - Contemporary Philosophy


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    The course provides an examination of some current trends and issues in contemporary American, British and European philosophy.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 2600 .
  
  • PHIL 3600 - Philosophy of Religion


    3 cr. 3 hr. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    This course examines the nature of religious experience and the problem of God’s existence as seen in classical Western theism and process philosophy. Differences between Western and Eastern religion, and between religion and science are discussed. CTW

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 2600 .
  
  • PHIL 3610 - World Religions


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course studies the principal world religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism. Emphasis is placed on their basic tenets and insights into spiritual values. CTW, GDCN

  
  • PHIL 4100 - Philosophy of Art


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    The nature of beauty and aesthetic experience, especially as embodied in the arts is explored. Relation of aesthetic experience to moral and technological experience is discussed. Students will survey and critically evaluate different theories of aesthetics in Western philosophy. A synthesis of subjective and objective theories is included. HIST, I

  
  • PHIL 4200 - Political and Social Philosophy


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester.

    The course examines the various political and social ideas beginning with Plato and continuing to Marx.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 2600  or POLS 1000  or POLS 1100 .
  
  • PHIL 4300 - Philosophy of Science


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    The course analyzes the methods and goals of the physical sciences, how they differ from the social sciences, and the philosophic problems encountered in scientific pursuits.

  
  • PHIL 4400 - Philosophy of Language


    3 cr. 3 hr. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    This course is the study of theories about structure and meaningfulness of language, especially in 20th century Anglo-American thought.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 1100 .
  
  • PHIL 4430 - Marxism


    3 cr. 3 hr. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    Origins, development, and contemporary application of Marx’s thought are explored. The course attempts to provide an understanding of society and history by a philosophy identified with political economy.

    Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000  or PHIL 2600 .
  
  • PHIL 4500 - Philosophy of Love


    3 cr. 3 hr. Also offered evenings.

    The course analyzes the concept of love as employed in the social and moral philosophies of various classical and contemporary thinkers.

  
  • PHIL 4700 - Ethical Issues in Business


    3 cr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The first objective of the course is to develop proficiency in the identification and analysis of ethical issues as they arise in business. The second objective is to acquaint the student with some specific ethical problems currently faced by businessmen and women: whistle-blowing, discrimination, truth in advertising, product safety and the environment. Both theoretical and actual cases are studied as well as two current ethical theories.

  
  • PHIL 4903 - Independent Study


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    The Independent Study is open to students who have permission of the supervising instructor and the department chairperson. Course of study, meetings and credit are arranged with approval.


Physics

  
  • PHYS 1100 - Physical Science I


    3 cr. 4 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course is designed to help non-science students in developing a meaningful and functional understanding of key physical science concepts and methodology. Topics include light, color and electricity. The course is taught with a combination of lectures, group discussions and learning-by-doing activities. The emphasis is to provide students with open-ended problem solving environments that facilitate insight into the nature of science as an intellectual activity, and to encourage students to explore alternate conceptions of physical phenomena. SMT, LAB

    Prerequisite(s): Math readiness.
  
  • PHYS 1200 - Physical Science II


    3 cr. 4 hr. This course may be offered less than once every two years. Also offered evenings.

    This course is designed to help non-science students in developing a meaningful and functional understanding of key physical science concepts and methodology. Topics include motion, force, heat, energy and nature of matter. The course is taught with a combination of lectures, group discussions and learning-by-doing activities. The emphasis is to provide students with open-ended problem solving environments that facilitate insight into the nature of science as an intellectual activity, and to encourage students to explore alternate conceptions of physical phenomena. SMT, LAB

    Prerequisite(s): Math readiness.
  
  • PHYS 2000 - Astronomy


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    After a brief introduction to the history of astronomy in Western civilization we discuss at an elementary level how light is produced and how telescopes work with light. In turn we then examine the solar system (comparative planetology) and the birth, evolution and death of stars and in the end consider the birth and death of the universe. This course is cross-listed as GEOG 2000 . SMT, LAB

  
  • PHYS 2300 - General Physics I


    4 cr. 5 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This first-semester general college physics course consists of studies in the principle and application of classical mechanics, waves, sound and heat. Typical topics include description of motions, Newton’s laws of motion, Kepler’s law of planetary motion, universal gravitation, work and energy, conservation laws, temperature, heat, and laws of thermodynamics. SMT, LAB

    Prerequisite(s): MATH 1300  or equivalent.
  
  • PHYS 2400 - General Physics II


    4 cr. 5 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This second-semester general college physics course consists of studies and applications of wave motions, sound, electricity, magnetism, light and optics. Typical topics include Coulomb’s law, electric force and field, potential and capacitance, electric circuits, magnetic force and field, magnetic forces on moving charges, electric induction, laws of reflection and refraction, mirrors and lenses, optical instruments, interference and diffraction of light. SMT, LAB

    Prerequisite(s): MATH 1300  or equivalent and PHYS 2300 .
  
  • PHYS 2600 - Calculus-Based Physics I


    4 cr. 5 hr. Day course offered in the Spring.

    The principles and applications of classical mechanics and heat are studied using the language of calculus. SMT, LAB

    Prerequisite(s): MATH 2400 .
  
  • PHYS 2700 - Calculus-Based Physics II


    4 cr. 5 hr. Day course offered in the Fall.

    The principles and applications of classical electricity, magnetism, and optics are studied using the language of calculus. SMT, LAB

    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 2600 .
  
  • PHYS 3000 - General Physics III


    3 cr. 3 hr. This course may be offered less than once every two years.

    This third-semester of general college physics course, discusses the inadequacy of classical physics and introduces the theories and models of modern physics. Topics covered in class work include special relativity and the development of quantum theory as depicted in blackbody radiation, photoelectric effect, and X-rays, the wave function and the uncertainty principle, atomic spectra, Bohr’s model of hydrogen, electronic configuration of atoms, the exclusion principle and the periodic table, properties of nuclei, binding energy, radioactivity and the decay processes, radiation hazards, and nuclear reactions.

    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 2300  and PHYS 2400 .
  
  • PHYS 4900 - Independent Study


    3 cr. Day course offered every Semester.

    The Independent Study is open to students who have permission of the supervising instructor and the department. The course of study, meetings, and credit are arranged upon approval.

  
  • PHYS 4975 - Directed Study


    1-6 cr.


Plastics Technology

  
  • PLAS 1010 - Blueprint Reading


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course introduces the basic concepts of blueprint reading and discusses types of lines, angles and views of a drawing. The student also learns about dimensioning circles, arcs, holes and threads. Emphasis is on understanding how to interpret a blueprint; with time permitting, students learn how to draw a blueprint.

  
  • PLAS 1030 - Industrial Electrical Maintenance


    Also offered evenings.

    This course covers the concepts of electrical troubleshooting of injection molding machines and associated equipment. Familiarization with basic electricity symbols, blueprint reading, meters used for troubleshooting, conventional and solid ladder diagrams/schematics, and troubleshooting are stressed. Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) are examined.

  
  • PLAS 2020 - Mold Design


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course examines the interrelation of plastics material processing, product design and function, and mold design and construction. Fundamental principles of cavity design, material feed systems, ejection systems, parting surfaces, mold actions, cavity and core steel selections, 3-plate, insulated runner and hot runner molds are discussed.

    Prerequisite(s): PLAS 1010 .
  
  • PLAS 2021 - Robotics Auto Applicat-100


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course will cover the highlights of robotics and automation engineering. Students will learn the practical aspects of designing a work cell, considering the safety, economic and analysis requirements. Students will also be expected to complete a work cell design project. Emphasis will be given to plastics manufacturing applications.

  
  • PLAS 2022 - Commodity Thermoplastics


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course serves as an introductory course reviewing the history, classification, definitions, terminology, raw materials, methods of manufacturing, testing-characterization of typical physical properties, and end-uses of polymeric materials systems. Emphasis will be on the commodity thermoplastics, polyolefins, vinyls and styrenics.

  
  • PLAS 2040 - Hydraulics/Pneumatics


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course involves a theoretical and practical study of hydraulics and pneumatics, the modern means of power transmission. This course surveys component design and function with an emphasis on problem definitions and solutions. Following an introduction to hydraulics and pneumatics, a study is made of valves, pumps, circuits and troubleshooting any hydraulic system.

  
  • PLAS 2050 - Injection Molding


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    The reciprocating screw injection molding machine; the components of injection molding machines; the molding cycle; melting and flow theory, including gate seal-off, basic trouble shooting and process effects, are examined. The students have hands-on laboratory experience and are responsible for a class presentation.

  
  • PLAS 2070 - Principles of Supervision


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    The purpose of this course is to develop an understanding of the role and responsibilities of the supervisor and to strengthen values and skills related to key supervisory functions. The principles and topics addressed include problem solving, decision making, leadership, management ethics and communication. This course is recommended for experienced and new supervisors and those aspiring to supervisory positions.

  
  • PLAS 2081 - Process Optimization-100


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    Plastic processing is a complex multi-variant manufacturing activity that requires extreme care to ensure optimal performance. This course will provide a scientific methodology to maximize quality and productivity. Students will have a chance to test their practical knowledge in a series of short experiments.

  
  • PLAS 3060 - Polymeric Materials, Design, and Application


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    This course provides comprehensive coverage of polymeric materials, plastic design and test methodology. Material properties, characteristics and application are presented for injection molded thermoplastic resins. A discussion of polymer blends and compounds using fillers, additives and reinforcing fibers are included. Property identification and the associated test procedure are reviewed with hands-on testing provided for the major properties. In addition, plastic product design techniques and application are discussed to complement the discussion of materials.

  
  • PLAS 3061 - Engineering Thermoplastics


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    In this course, you will learn the history behind the major polymer families and their commercial significance in today’s marketplace. This course emphasizes the basic chemical structure, typical properties, specific specialty grades, typical pricing, and market application. Other areas of importance include how these materials interact with the rules of plastic part design, and how fillers, reinforcements, and other additives enhance specific properties in polymers.

    Prerequisite(s):  
  
  • PLAS 3080 - Statistical Process Control


    3 cr. Also offered evenings.

    The student learns the use of Statistical Methods and SPC to improve quality and productivity through measurement, control and reduction of variation in the process. Topics covered include basic statistics, the normal distribution, control chart theory, process capability studies and gage and measurement analysis. Simple metrology concepts and the basics of geometric dimensioning/tolerancing are also covered.


Political Science

  
  • POLS 1000 - United States Government


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    In modern American government, the major political institutions, such as the presidency, the Congress, and the Supreme Court, are examined. Their constitutional antecedents and their modern functions are presented. Special attention is given to the current bureaucracy, elections and the political actors in the election process. CTW

  
  • POLS 1100 - Introduction to Political Science


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered every Semester. Also offered evenings.

    This course represents an introduction to the field of political science. Political science is the study of how people interact with one another in their communities, whether they are as small as the Fitchburg State University campus, or as large as the entire global community. The course is divided into the following three sections, each of which represents an important sub-field within the discipline: political philosophy, American government and international politics. CTW

  
  • POLS 1500 - State and Urban Government


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered annually. Also offered evenings.

    The class focuses upon current issues and politics in urban and state government and attempts to evaluate proposed solutions to issues.

  
  • POLS 2002 - Elections and Campaigns


    3 cr. 3 hr. Spring and fall semesters of presidential election years, and fall of off-year elections.

    This course examines the nomination and general election processes in great detail, along with the Constitutional basis and historical evolutions of these processes.  In presidential election years the principal focus is on that contest, while in “off years,” congressional and state elections become the subjects of interest.

  
  • POLS 2110 - Europe Today


    3 cr. 3 hrs. Day course offered every other year.

    Europe today is an introduction to the major themes in modern European history and political science. The focus will be on the roots of contemporary Europe, European politics and economics, ethnic and religious conflict, citizenship and immigration, European culture and Europe’s place in the world and relationship with the United States. Credit is not awarded for both HIST 2110  and POLS 2110.

  
  • POLS 2200 - Contemporary International Relations


    3 cr. 3 hr. Day course offered in the Spring.

    The course studies critical problems confronting the present international system. Armed conflict and internal violence, as well as prospects for the resolution of conflict are explored. CTW, GDCN

    Prerequisite(s): POLS 1100 .
 

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