Goucher College 2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalogue PLEASE NOTE: This is an archived catalog. Programs are subject to change each academic year.
Course Descriptions
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Philosophy |
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PHL 316 - Modern Philosophy (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 216) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
An advanced survey of seventeenth and eighteenth-century philosophy as developed in the writings of Descartes, Leibniz,Spinoza, Locke, Hume and others. All readings are from primary sources, supplemented by lecture and discussion. We will consider not only the internal arguments of these texts, but also the broader cultural and political questions that frame their arguments. Prerequisite: Either one philosophy course, or permission of the instructor. Fall semester. Offered 2018-19 and alternate years. DeCaroli.
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PHL 317 - Contemporary Philosophy (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 217) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
An advanced introduction to contemporary philosophy. The course includes of survey of the major philosophers of post-structuralism (post-1968), such as Gilles Deleuze, Judith Butler, Pierre Bourdieu, and Giorgio Agamben, as well as an examination of the traditions that have shaped contemporary philosophical debates, including the work of Karl Marx and Sigmund Freud. Prerequisite: Either one philosophy course or permission of the instructor. Spring semester. Offered 2017-18 and alternate years. DeCaroli.
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PHL 321 - Nineteenth Century Philosophy (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 219) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
What is the relationship of one philosopher’s works to his predecessors? To philosophy itself? Are current philosophies responsible for explaining and correcting the philosophies of the past? Does the history of philosophy matter to philosophy now? Can philosophy define history? Can we discern patterns in that history? Does the human condition change in human history? This course will examine these questions through the lens of five nineteenth century philosophers: Kant, Hegel, Marx, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche. We will reads Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason, and Hegel’s Phenomenology of Spirit and philosophy of history to show their new confidence in human reason; and Marx’s Economic and Philosophical Manuscripts of 1844, Nietzsche’s Genealogy of Morals, and Kierkegaard’s The Concept of Anxiety for responses to Kant and Hegel, and the subsequent crisis in confidence in reason and the loss of absolute values that give rise to the issues of modern life. We will also discuss the Influence of these works on psychology, social science, religion, and ethics.
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PHL 327 - Bootlicking and Other Authoritarian Pathologies (4 Cr.) (PSC 327) (GCR RPP)
What is the nature of authority and authoritarianism? Why are certain individuals drawn to and motivated by authority and by acquiescing to it and also by following even to their own detriment or to the extent that they give up their sense of self, responsibility, or individuality? This class will explore these questions from an interdisciplinary perspective focusing on philosophy, political theory, psychoanalysis, anthropology, religion, genocide studies, and history. We will touch especially on questions of authority in the context of how beliefs are formed, how words and language are used, how actions are motivated and justified, how movements arise and are maintained, and how authoritarian structures are sustained and constructed (among others). Some of the specific examples we will look at may involve perspectives of race, gender, and power around white supremacy, white nationalism, antisemitism, misogyny, and/or patriarchy. No prior experience with any of these fields or the topic is necessary. Spring semester. Offered Spring 2021 and every other year. Shuster.
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PHL 360 - Ancient Greek Philosophy (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 260) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
An advanced survey and introduction to ancient Western philosophy, beginning with the pre-Socratics, focusing chiefly on Plato and/or Aristotle, and concluding with a consideration of Hellenistic and “medieval” philosophy. In addition to understanding these thinkers in their historical contexts, we will also aim to see how and to what extent they are still relevant today. Prerequisite: Either one philosophy course or permission of the instructor. Fall semester. Offered 2017-18 and alternate years. Shuster.
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PHL 398 - Independent Work in Philosophy (2 or 4 Cr.)
Special topics of study based on previous course work in the program and selected in conference with the instructor.
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PHL 410 - States of Exception (4 Cr.) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
This course will investigate the nature of the political exception through a sustained examination of the work of the contemporary political philosopher, Giorgio Agamben. The course will be devoted to a careful reading of Agamben’s most important works, paying particular attention to his expansive investigation of the political exception as it appears in such historical figures as the enslaved, the exile, and the sovereign - each of which represents a different manner of being excluded from the legal order. We will explore these figures not only in abstraction, but in relation to concrete contemporary examples, and along the way we will ask whether well-meaning attempts to restore rights, extend sovereignty, and strenghten the law are sufficient to resolve the injustice caused by these forms of exclusion. Prerequisite: Either two philosophy courses (one at the 300-level), or permission of the instructor. Fall semester. Offered 2019-20 and alternate years. DeCaroli.
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PHL 414 - Sigmund Freud: Then and Now (4 Cr.) (PHL 314) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies)
This course will present a comprehensive, historically sensitive, and theoretically (as opposed to clincally or practically) oriented overview of the thought of Sigmund Freud, especially his views on human agency, consciousness, and morality; sexuality; sociality; religion/Judaism; violence; human rationality; and history. The course will conclude with a consideration of the ways in which Freud’s thought has influenced contemporary critical theory, and some possible figures we may read in dialogue with Freud include Theodor W. Adorno, Herbert Marcuse, or Judith Butler. Prerequisite: one course in philosophy or permission of the instructor.
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PHL 430 - Nietzsche and His Readers (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 330) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
This course will be a thorough examination of Nietzsche’s throught, especially as it concerns morality, religion, life, art, Western philosophy, truth, human value(s), nihilism, and human agency. In addition to exploring Nietzsche’s ideas, we will conclude the course by examining the ways in which Nietzsche has been read by later generations, including possibly in later European philosophy (Heidegger, Deleuze, Kofman, Irigaray), political philosophy, feminist philosophy, and/or critical race theory. Prerequisite: Either two philosophy courses (one at the 300-level), or permission of the instructor. Shuster
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PHL 432 - Foucault and Neoliberalism (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 332) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
An intensive examination of the works of Michel Foucault as well as an introduction to the ideas that shaped the second half of the twentieth century, including the rise of neo-liberalism. The course will be devoted to a careful reading of Foucault’s most important works. Prerequisite: Either two philosophy courses (one at the 300-level), or permission of the instructor. Spring semester Offered 2018-19 and alternate years. DeCaroli.
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PHL 433 - Kant and Arendt (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 333)
An intensive examination of the works of Immanuel Kant, as well as an introduction to the ideas and themes characteristic of the critical tradition he inaugurated. The course will devote considerable time to a careful reading of the standard translations of Kant’s most important works. The course will also examine the twentieth century writings of Hannah Arendt who expands on Kant’s ideas and gives them a profoundly contemporary relevance. Prerequisite: Either two philosophy courses (one at the 300-level), or permission of the instructor.
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PHL 485 - Philosophical Topics (4 Cr.) (Formerly PHL 395)
Advanced study in a particular historical period, theme, issue, or thinker in the Western or Eastern philosophical tradition. The field of discussion is delimited differently each time the course is taught. Topics for a given semester are posted before registration. Prerequisite: Either two philosophy courses (one at the 300-level), or permission of the instructor. Program faculty.
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PHL 495 - Senior Thesis (4 Cr.)
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PHL 497 - Philosophy Capstone (2 Cr.)
The philosophy capstone course will include periodic meetings with all students and all philosophy faculty, as well as intensive, one-on-one meetings with individual students. It is designed to encourage academic self-reflection with the goal of creating an opportunity for seniors to complete a deeply meaningful, first-rate project that draws from their past research and learning. Prerequisite: Senior standing. Fall semester. Program faculty.
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Physics Courses at the introductory level in physics are planned to meet various needs. PHY 115 and PHY 116 are designed to give an algebra-based survey of physics, and are intended for students who plan to major in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, enter the health professions, or teach in elementary schools. PHY 125 and PHY 126 are calculus based and are intended for students who plan to major in Engineering Science or enter the 3+2 Engineering Program.
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PHY 115 - Principles of Physics I (4 Cr.) (LER-NS)(GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
First semester of a non-calculus-based course sequence designed for students majoring in the life sciences or non-science students interested in physics. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, kinematics and dynamics of linear and angular motions, universal gravitation, conservation of energy and momentum, fluids and thermal physics. Recommended with PHY 116 for students majoring in the life sciences. Three hours of lecture plus a 3-hour laboratory session per week. Prerequisite: three years of high-school mathematics. Fall semester. Yoder.
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PHY 116 - Principles of Physics II (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
Second semester of a non-calculus-based course sequence designed for students majoring in the life sciences or non-science students interested in physics. Topics include simple harmonic motion, mechanical and electromagnetic waves, acoustics, nature of light and color, geometrical and physical optics, electricity and magnetism. Three hours of lecture plus a 3-hour laboratory session per week. Prerequisite: PHY 115 . Spring semester. Yoder.
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PHY 125 - General Physics I (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
A calculus-based course where lecture and laboratory are combined and taught using an interactive teaching method employing computers and guided inquiry through hands-on experiments. The method is designed to increase problem-solving and analytical-thinking skills and to guide students toward a coherent and logical approach to understanding the world. Topics include kinematics and dynamics of linear and angular motions, universal gravitation, conservation of energy and momentum, simple harmonic motion, wave motion, and fluids. Six hours per week, integrated lecture/laboratory. Pre- or corequisite: DMC 172 . Spring semester. Markovic.
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PHY 126 - General Physics II (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
A continuation of PHY 125 , including integral calculus. Topics include thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, and physical and geometrical optics. Six hours per week integrated lecture/laboratory. Note: Physics and 3+2 engineering students are to take MA 214 as a pre- or co-requisite, as it is required to continue in the major. Pre- or corequisite: DMC 172 or MA 214 - Multivariable Differential Calculus (4 Cr.) or permission of the instructor. Fall semester (offered 2021-22). Markovic.
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PHY 225 - Analytical Mechanics (4 Cr.)
This course will cover Newtonian Mechanics (including position and velocity dependent forces, and systems with variable mass), Lagrangian Mechanics, oscillations, statics and dynamics of a rigid object. Mathematical topics covered will include ordinary and partial differential equations. Pre-requisite: PHY 126 . Spring semester, first offered spring 2022. Dukan.
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PHY 290 - Internship in Physics (0-4 Cr.)
Internship opportunities typically involve working in research laboratories in universities and industry and are arranged on the basis of students’ individual interests. Students complete work on site under the supervision of professionals in the field and also complete academic assignments as determined by the faculty internship sponsor. Each credit requires 45 hours at the internship site. Course may be taken during academic semesters as well as summer and winter breaks. Graded pass/no pass only. Pre-requisites: PHY 126 and appropriate upper-level courses as determined by the program.
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PHY 300 - Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics (4 Cr.)
A calculus-based course in which the basic concepts of thermodynamics are introduced from the microscopic point of view. Methods of statistical physics are used to define entropy and temperature, heat and work, and ideal gas behavior. Applications to chemical reactions, Fermi and Bose systems in condensed matter physics, and phase transformations are discussed. The course includes an introduction to relevant mathematical topics from probability and statistics. Prerequisite: PHY 281 (inactive course) or permission of instructor. Fall semester. Markovic.
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PHY 301 - Intermediate Electromagnetic Theory (4 Cr.)
Intermediate-level discussion of Maxwell’s equations and their applications: electrostatics and dynamics; magnetic fields and magnetic effects; and electromagnetic waves, both in vacuum and in materials. The course also includes an overview of necessary mathematical techniques, including topics from vector calculus and partial differential equations. Prerequisite: PHY 281 (inactive course) or permission of instructor. Spring semester. Markovic.
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PHY 310 - Electronics/Instrumentation (4 Cr.)
A project-based introduction to principles of electronic instrumentation and microprocessors that trains students to identify appropriate methods and techniques for physical measurements or experimental control. Students learn to automate processes using the Arduino platform. Topics include: DC and AC circuits, diodes, transistors, operational amplifiers, digital logic and sensing, using specialized chips, and data acquisition. The course also includes an introduction to related mathematical topics in Fourier analysis and complex variables. Four hours integrated lecture/laboratory. Fall semester. Offered 2022-23. Yoder.
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PHY 321 - Advanced Laboratory (4 Cr.) (DA-AC)
In this course, students will work in groups to plan, carry out, and analyze a series of sophisticated experimental measurements or demonstrations of an engineering principle. Each experiment or demonstration will include formulation of a clear and testable question, appropriate modeling and/or theoretical analysis, and communication or presentation of results. The course will focus on developing real-world problem-solving skills and instrumentation/analysis choices and relating them to fundamental theoretical principles. Significant project component. Pre-requisite: PHY 225 . Offered fall every other year. First offered fall 2023. Yoder, Markovic.
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PHY 325 - Classical and Quantum Waves (4 Cr.)
The first part of the course will cover physics of wave motion and the classical wave equation. Mathematical topics covered will include ordinary and partial differential equations, Fourier series and integrals and normal modes. The second part of the course will cover the basic principles of quantum mechanics: wave-particle duality, the uncertainty principle, quantum waves and the Schrodinger equation, energy levels, reflection and transmission coefficients, applications to atomic physics. Pre-requisite: PHY 126 . Spring semester, first offered spring 2023. Dukan.
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PHY 330 - Special Topics in Contemporary Physics (2-4 Cr.)
Topics courses in physics are offered to extend knowledge beyond foundation courses and to introduce students to more advanced topics in physics and their applications to many different areas of science and technology. Topics are determined by student interest and needs. Courses include but are not limited to: Condensed Matter Physics (Yoder), Nanoscience and Quantum Materials (Markovic) and Relativity and Cosmology. Depending on a particular topic, the course will have a three-hour lecture, laboratory and/or seminar format. Students may take this course for credit more than once. Prerequisites: PHY 220 (inactive) or permission of the program. Additional courses as appropriate for the particular topic will be specified by the program. Fall semesters. Markovic.
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PHY 395 - Independent Work in Physics (2 or 4 Cr.)
Independent theoretical and laboratory work carried out under the supervision of a member of the program. May be one or two semesters. Graded pass/no pass only. Prerequisites: major or minor in physics and permission of instructor. Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Program faculty.
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PHY 495 - Senior Thesis - Physics (4 Cr.) (formerly PHY 450)
Fall and Spring semesters.
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PHY 497 - Capstone in Physics (4 Cr.)
In their capstone experience students will carry out an independent project in collaboration with a faculty mentor. The project, either theoretical or experimental, will include background literature research on the topic, and presentation of the results of the investigation to students and faculty. Prerequisite: 300-level coursework recommended by a faculty mentor. PHY 395 can not be taken at the same time as PHY 497. Offered fall and spring semester. Program faculty.
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PHY 542 - Principles of Physics I (4 Cr.)
Newtonian mechanics, fluids, thermodynamics, kinematics and dynamics of linear and angular motions, universal gravitation, conservation of energy and momentum, elasticity and simple harmonic motion, statics and dynamics of fluid motion, gas laws, heat energy, and laws of thermodynamics. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Fall semester. Department.
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PHY 543 - Principles of Physics II (4 Cr.)
A continuation of PHY 542 .Waves, sound, optics, electricity and magnetism, modern physics. Mechanical and electromagnetic wave motion, acoustics, resonance, the nature of light and color, geometrical and physical optics, static electricity, DC and AC circuits, and nuclear physics. Three hours lecture and three hours laboratory. Not open to students, permission required. Preference given to Post-Bac students. Prerequisite: PHY 542 . Spring semester. Department.
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Political Science |
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PSC 121 - Comparative Politics (4 Cr.) (Formerly PSC 221) (GCR Social and Behavioral Sciences area)
This course will introduce students to the study of comparative politics, highlighting theories of nationalism, democracy, ethnic politics, social movements, and armed insurrections. We will draw upon cases from Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. Chernov.
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PSC 143 - American Political System (4 Cr.) (Formerly PSC 243) (GCR Social and Behavioral Sciences area)
This course examines the American national political system with attention to political culture, governmental institutions, and political behavior. While the range of topics in this course approximates that of a survey course, the materials allows for more critical analysis and greater contemplation of the subject matter than a survey course. Fall semester. Kasniunas.
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PSC 150 - Approaches to International Relations (4 Cr.) (formerly PSC 250) (GCR Social and Behavioral Sciences area)
This course is an introduction to theories and problems of international politics. This course introduces students to the political, economic, and social factors which come to shape the behavior of states and non-state actors on the international stage. The course begins by providing students a framework for understanding what theory is and how theories can be evaluated. Students explore the major theoretical approaches taken in the study of international relations including but not limited to realism, liberalism, constructivism, economic structuralism and feminist theory. Through projects, simulations, and written assignments students connect theory to policy related to trade, cybersecurity, climate change, terrorism, armament, drone technology and natural resource use. Fall semester. Baqueiro.
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PSC 211 - Research Methods in Political Science (4 Cr.) (GCR DA-AC)(GCR Social and Behavioral Sciences area)
This course provides an introduction to empirical political science research with a focus on quantitative methodology. Topics include the logic and structure of research designs, variable conceptualization and measurement, descriptive statistics, statistical inference, basic probability, and hypothesis testing. Students will learn basic SPSS and Excel skills. Prerequisite: completion of GCR - Data Analytics Foundational level. Spring semester. Kromer.
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PSC 213 - Practicum in Survey Research (2 Cr.) (GCR DA-AC)
This course examines current methodologies in survey research. Topics include sampling, questionnaire design, instrument validity and reliability, error reduction, data collection practices, and analysis of survey data. Additionally, students will learn survey lab management skills and basic programming using industry leading online survey software. Students will assist with the production of the Goucher Poll and produce an executive report of the results as a final project. Prerequisite: completion of GCR - Data Analytics Foundational level. Variable semesters. Kromer.
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PSC 217 - Judaism and Political Theology (4 Cr.) (JS 217)
This class explores the relationship between religion and the political order. Some questions that animate it are: is or must the political order somehow be based on or tied to religion? What does it mean to be secular, especially given secularism’s religious origins (a point we also explore)? These and other broader questions are connected to traditions of thinking about these issues in Judaism, itself a fundamental input into both Christianity and Islam, and thereby a large portion of the world, both ancient and modern. Throughout, the aim is to use Judaism to illuminate and think about broader political theological questions–so we are just as likely to read the Talmud or Moses Maimonides as we are to read Barack Obama or Martin Luther King. Spring. Offered Spring 2018 and every other year. Shuster.
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PSC 231 - Political Philosophy (4 Cr.) (PHL 231) (GCR Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies area)
An introduction to political philosophy with particular attention paid to the modern period during which time the fundamental concepts of western politics were developed. The course includes a survey of classical writings on politics as well as a selection of more recent texts that focus on concrete issues such as citizenship, the social contract, sovereignty, and human rights. Prerequisite: Either sophomore standing, one philosophy course, or permission of the instructor. Spring semester. Offered 2018-19 and alternate years. DeCaroli.
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PSC 239 - Religion, Law, and Politics in America (4 Cr.) (RLG 239)
This course will cover the roots of the American separation of church and state, its practical application in the courts and in public policy, and some of the trends and evolutions of this understanding resulting from changing aspects of the American political, social, and religious landscape. Students will examine the importance of racial and religious privilege in shaping not only the laws and policies but the paradigms of American identity. Fall 2018 and alternate years thereafter. Duncan.
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PSC 245 - Organized Advocacy in American Politics (4 Cr.) (GCR Social and Behavioral Sciences area)
Advocacy is fundamental to our notions of democracy and plays a strong role in our political system. Organized advocates have had a persistent presence in our system but yet are some of the most understood actors. We treat lobbyists, special interests and PACs with skepticism yet look favorably upon advocates. This course will give you an understanding of organized advocacy in its many manifestations, exploring theoretical and normative considerations alongside the strategies and practices employed. It is recommended that students have completed PSC 143 prior to taking this course. This course fulfills the WEC requirement. Variable semesters. Kasniunas.
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PSC 246 - U.S. Foreign Policy (4 Cr.)
The course examines the basic concepts, themes, and issues in U.S. Foreign Policy. Emphasis is on the major trends and patterns in U.S. foreign policy period post-World War II and special focus on post-cold war issues. Topics include the process and content of U.S. Foreign Policy, the interplay with domestic politics and the nation’s foreign policy, foreign policy making, and contemporary policies and issues. Variable semesters. Honick.
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PSC 247 - An Introduction to Education Policy (4 Cr.) (ED 247)
This course will offer students an introduction to public policy through the lens of education policy in the United States. Students will learn about the various actors involved in making education policy at the local, state and federal levels of government and policy process. Students will also be taught the tools and resources needed in order to analyze and assess education policy. This course does not have any pre-requisites only a desire to better understand how education policy is made in the United States and the impact it has on students. Political science students seeking an introduction to public policy may be interested in this course as well as future educators.
Variable semesters. Kasniunas.
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PSC 248 - The 2024 Election (4 Cr.) (GCR Social and Behavioral Sciences area)
This course examines both theoretical and practical aspects of campaigns and elections. Students are required to volunteer and work on an actual political campaign. Kasniunas.
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PSC 249 - Special Topic in Politics (2 or 4 Cr.)
Variable semesters.
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PSC 256 - The UN in changing global politics (4 Cr.)
This course introduces and explores the history, institutions, and the impact of the United Nations in the context of changing global politics. The current operations and future potential of the UN creates a framework for assessing the UN response to current global issues. Emphasis is placed on the UN role in a changing global security environment, with a focus on UN peacekeeping, the challenges of environmental and climate change, sustainability, and the protection of human rights. Assessment of the UN’s role includes its interactions with global actors such as other IGO’s, NGO’s and other non-state actors, international civil society, and the private sector. Variable semesters. Honick.
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PSC 257 - Problems in International Political Economy (4 Cr.)
This is an introductory course to the study of international political economy (IPE). This course begins with reviewing major IPE approaches such as Mercantilism, Liberalism and Marxism. Students then evaluate the multifaceted role of international financial actors, identify key political, social and ecological factors that either hinder or help economic growth, and assess trends of protectionism and economic integration in the post-Cold War global economy. Prerequisite: PSC 150 . Fall semester.
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PSC 258 - The International Politics of the Middle East (4 Cr.) (JS 258 )
Examination of regional and international issues in the Middle East. Topics include the Arab-Israeli conflict, inter-Arab rivalries, instability in the Persian Gulf, and the crisis in Lebanon. Variable semesters. Honick.
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PSC 259 - African Politics (4 Cr.) (GCR RPP)
An examination of African politics and societies since 1885. Exploration of the influences of Islam and Christianity, the colonization of the continent by imperial European powers, and the liberation movements, which brought about the demise of colonization. Consideration of contemporary issues and trends. Prerequisites: PSC 121 or PSC 150 , or permission of the instructor. Variable semesters. Singer.
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PSC 262 - Democracy and Violence in Southeast Asia (4 Cr.)
This course examines colonial experiences, political systems and the dynamics of conflict and violence in Southeast Asia. The course first focuses on the colonial experience of each core case under study: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Burma, and the Philippines. The second segment of the course highlights the variations in the core democratic and semi-democratic cases. The third segment of the course examines the dynamics of conflict, including war, genocide, secessionism and rebellion. Fall semester, alternate years. Chernov.
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PSC 263 - The Pacific Rim (4 Cr.)
The Pacific Rim, especially East Asia, is a dynamic and critical region for the world economy and politics in the 21st century. This course is designed to introduce basic concepts, approaches, and fundamental issues in studying the international relations of the Asia-Pacific. The course focuses on major trends and issues in the region including key strategic relationships among the main actors: China, Japan, the two Koreas, the U.S., and Southeast Asia. The course examines several contemporary issues in depth - the rise of China as a regional and global power, the North Korean nuclear issue, China and the status of Hong Kong, the maritime disputes in the East Asia and South China Seas, the relationship across the Taiwan Straits, trade wars between China and the U.S., and prospects for arms races in the region. The course provides a broad geopolitical context for understanding the dynamics and patterns of international relations in the Asia-Pacific region. Variable semesters. Honick.
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PSC 266 - Religion and Identity in Asia (4 Cr.)
This course will examine the intersection of religion and identity in four Asian countries: India, China, Indonesia and Myanmar (Burma). It will highlight three themes across the four cases: belonging, acvtivism, and conflict, drawing on academic literature and current events.
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PSC 272Y - Intensive Course Abroad (1-4 Cr.) (GCR - SA)
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PSC 273 - American Political Behavior (2 Cr.)
This course examines the formation of political beliefs, their translation into mass level political behavior, and the subsequent ramifications for American politics. Topics include the nature and origin of political beliefs focusing on key determinants of vote choice, political participation, and public opinion. Additionally, the course analyzes the connection between public opinion and government officials and institutions. Variable semesters. Kromer.
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PSC 279 - World Crisis (2 Cr.)
This 7 week course will constitute a specific intensive study into a single world crisis. Topics are selected based on current world problems. Depending on the problem, we draw in appropriate theoretical frameworks and methods, including but not restricted to those from international relations. Fall semester. Offered Fall 2017 and every other year. Chernov.
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PSC 283 - Topics in Social Science (4 Cr.) (SOA 283 )
Targeting social science majors, this course will be team-taught by Monteverde Institute (MVI) and visiting faculty, with topics reflecting the expertise of visiting faculty and MVI’s thematic emphasis on water, ecotourism, land-use planning and development, community health, and tropical ecology and biodiversity. In addition, students will learn social science research methodologies applicable to their research projects. Prerequisites: 200-level course in social sciences. Methods course encouraged. Spring semester.
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PSC 290 - Political Science and International Relations Internship (2-4 Cr.)
The political science major requires at least one 2-4 credit internship as a degree requirement. Students may choose to complete a second 2-4 credit internship to count as an elective within the major. Each credit requires 45 hours of work at the internship site. Internships may be taken for a letter grade only and require an academic component which will be overseen by a faculty member. Prerequisites: a political science course and permission of director. Students are accepted on the basis of course background and availability to upper-level students. First-year students are eligible. Preliminary application and interview required.
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PSC 299 - Independent Work (1-4 Cr.)
An independent research project and presentation of findings or a special program of directed readings. Students arrange individually with any member of the program. Prerequisite: sophomore standing.
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PSC 306 - Seminar in Political Theory (4 Cr.)
The topic of this seminar will vary between semesters: students are advised to check with the instructor for upcoming themes. Topics may include some of the following: Aristotle; the political theory of cosmopolitanism; theories of sovereignty; Thucydides and imperialism. Whatever the theme, the seminar requires students to sustain a deep engagement with difficult texts and to participate fully in class discussions. A research paper is required. Prerequisites: 200 level Theory course. Variable semesters.
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PSC 321 - Terrorism and Political Violence (4 Cr.)
This course examines the life cycle of terrorist groups and terrorists, including becoming a terrorist, being a terrorist and ceasing participation in acts of terrorism. Students will learn about theories of terrorism, tactics, recruitment, radicalization and the end of terrorist campaigns. Cases will be drawn from nationalist, right wing, left wing and religious terrorist groups. Prerequisite: two courses in political science, junior standing, or permission of the instructor. Chernov.
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PSC 327 - Bootlicking and Other Authoritarian Pathologies (4 Cr.) (PHL 327) (GCR RPP)
What is the nature of authority and authoritarianism? Why are certain individuals drawn to and motivated by authority and by acquiescing to it and also by following even to their own detriment or to the extent that they give up their sense of self, responsibility, or individuality? This class will explore these questions from an interdisciplinary perspective focusing on philosophy, political theory, psychoanalysis, anthropology, religion, genocide studies, and history. We will touch especially on questions of authority in the context of how beliefs are formed, how words and language are used, how actions are motivated and justified, how movements arise and are maintained, and how authoritarian structures are sustained and constructed (among others). Some of the specific examples we will look at may involve perspectives of race, gender, and power around white supremacy, white nationalism, antisemitism, misogyny, and/or patriarchy. No prior experience with any of these fields or the topic is necessary. Spring semester. Offered Spring 2021 and every other year. Shuster.
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PSC 333 - State Politics and Policy (4 Cr.) (Formerly PSC 233)
This course examines the dynamics of state government, including the legislative process, the role of the executive, and the impact of political parties and interest groups on policy making. Students will learn how to conduct quantitative evaluations of state-level policy and process. This course no longer satisfies the GCR DA-AC if taken after fall 2021. Variable semesters. Kromer.
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PSC 342 - Seminar in Presidential Politics (4 Cr.)
This course examines the development of the office of the presidency and executive power. Readings will explore contemporary issues of the modern presidency. It is recommended that students have completed PSC 143 prior to taking this course. Variable semesters. Kasniunas.
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PSC 343 - Seminar in Congressional Politics (4 Cr.)
A study of the legislative branch in the American system of government. This course considers the incentives and goals of members of Congress and the nature of institutional arrangements. Special attention is given to the changes and reforms occurring since 1995 and their implications for policy-making. It is recommended that students have completed PSC 143 prior to taking this course. Variable semesters. Kasniunas.
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PSC 353 - Special Topics Seminar (4 Cr.)
Special topics seminar in political science. Description will vary depending on the special topic course being offered. Prerequisite: minimum junior standing. First offered fall 2018.
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PSC 359 - Seminar on African Politics (4 Cr.)
Examination of the internal and external dynamics that affect the domestic and foreign policies of African states. Seminar participants are expected to develop a research topic and present their findings. Prerequisite: PSC 259 or permission of the instructor. Variable semesters. Singer.
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PSC 365 - Asian Security (4 Cr.)
The seminar in Asian Security will focus on security issues in Asia, most notably South and Southeast Asia. Topics include nuclear proliferation, the war over Kashmir, environmental security, food security, the drug trade and terrorism. Prerequisite: two courses in political science, junior standing, or permission of the instructor. Chernov.
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PSC 375 - Political Islam (4 Cr.)
Political Islam is among the most salient, interesting, and misunderstood concepts in our political vocabulary today. This course will endeavor to unpack political Islam, focusing on the theoretical trends in the scholarship as well as the key Islamic social movements and political parties, which are affecting the political discourse. The course will draw on cases of both Sunni and Shia; Arab and non-Arab; and democratic, semi-democratic, and authoritarian polities. Prerequisite: two courses in political science, junior standing, or permission of the instructor. Spring semester. Chernov.
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PSC 399 - Advanced Independent Work (3-6 Cr.)
Independent work leading to the senior thesis, which may be written as part of a student’s pursuit of honors in political science. Prerequisites: senior status, permission of instructor.
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PSC 495 - Senior Thesis in Political Science (4 Cr.) (formerly PSC 350)
Fall semester and spring semester.
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PSC 496 - Seminar in Scope and Methods in Political Science (4 Cr.)
What is politics and how should we study it? This course includes a review of competing views emphasizing classic works and contemporary research in the discipline. This course serves as the capstone experience for the political science major. Prerequisite: Senior standing. Spring semester.
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PSC 497 - Seminar in Theories of International Relations (4 Cr.) (Formerly PSC 350)
Designed primarily for senior international relations majors, students examine issues of power, security, and conflict from a historical and theoretical perspective. Students survey leading IR research related to world order; how it is established, maintained and destroyed in the international realm. Students gather evidence probing the extent to which IR theory is rooted in ideas born from the Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution and the development of liberal democracy, and interrogate the discipline’s traditional assumptions of order and power. The course then moves to connect theory to policy application and rethink concepts of security and war in the age of big data and in the dawn of cyberspace. What are the current security problems or sources of disorder facing decision makers today and how are these likely to evolve in our future? Prerequisite: PSC 150 or PSC 257 , and Senior standing. Spring semester.
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Prelaw Studies |
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PLS 204 - Law and Society (4 Cr.) (Formerly PLS 100)
An introductory, interdisciplinary examination of law as a social institution. Focus is on the origin, history, and philosophy of legal systems from an international perspective, as well as the relationship in the United States between common law and statutory law, federal and state law, the courts and legislative bodies, and the courts and the executive branch of government. Exploration of the legal profession, its history, practice, goals, and place in American society. Spring semester.
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PLS 250 - Legal Writing and Advocacy in the Courts (4 Cr.) (Formerly PLS 350)
Introduces students to persuasive legal writing and oral advocacy at the trial and/or appellate levels. Working from a fictional case file, students will learn fundamentals about the U.S. course systems and pretrial and appellate processes. Students will learn how to read and brief a legal case, articulate legal rules from cases, develop a theory of a case using facts and legal rules, and build on the students’ existing writing and oral advocacy skills to develop and advance that theory. During the semester, students will draft a number of documents including documents to a court, such a motion for summary judgment and/or an appellate brief. Students also will argue their cases in a moot court setting.
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PLS 290 - Prelaw Internship (0-4 Cr.)
Internships with the court system, governmental agencies, and law enforcement agencies may be pursued during the academic year, January, and/or the summer. All internships require the approval of and are supervised by the program director. Graded pass/no pass only. Prerequisites: sophomore standing and permission of the director.
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PLS 299 - Independent Work (1-4 Cr.)
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PLS 385 - Business Law (4 Cr.) (BUS 385)
This course explores the elements of business law including its regulations, the jurisprudence system and legal instruments. The latter includes torts, contracts, sales agency, transactions, negotiation instruments, and business entities. Prerequisite: For Legal Studies minors PLS 250 ; for business majors and minors WRT 206 , and 16 credits in BUS courses as well as junior status. Spring semester. First offered 2018.
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Psychology |
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PSY 105 - Introduction to Psychology (4 Cr.)
This course provides an overview of the contemporary discipline of psychology, integrated with learning activities designed to develop scientific thinking and research skills. Topics include fundamental issues in psychology, brain and behavior, perception, learning and cognition, personality theories, psychological disorders, and humanistic, developmental, and social psychologies. Students will learn the philosophical and methodological foundations of psychology as a scientific study of mind, brain, behavior, and human experience. Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Choe, DeWyngaert, McCabe, Starkey, Wilterdink.
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PSY 201 - Professional Development in Psychology I (1 Cr.)
Develop an enhanced understanding of the breadth of psychology as a discipline, as well as interdisciplinary connections, through discussions with psychology faculty. Explore the psychology major - requirements, courses, opportunities. Attend and discuss Center for Psychology events related to the field and to career/graduate school topics. Discuss academic success and student comportment. Create a 4-year plan for academic, personal, and professional goals. Required for psychology majors who enter Goucher starting Fall 2017 and after. Offered on a Pass/No-Pass basis only. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Program faculty.
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PSY 207 - Educational Psychology (4 Cr.) (cross-listed as ED 207)
This course focuses on the core theories of learning as established through research in the fields of education and psychology. Topics include: the art and science of teaching; current theoretical perspectives of learning; academic motivation; selecting instructional practices and strategies to optimize learning. Prerequisite: ED 104 and or permission of instructor. Spring semester. Program Faculty.
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PSY 219 - Black Psychology (4 Cr.)
Cultural psychology is a subfield within the areas of social psychology and cultural anthropology. It involves the study of the interconnections between and among intergenerationally transmitted behaviors, meanings, and symbols, and psychological processes such as cognition, affect, personality structure, and behavior. This course offers a foundation to the field through a case study of Black culture and psychology. Specifically, we will examine the cultural psychological experiences of people of African descent, primarily African Americans, and Black Psychology as a specialty with important implications for human and social science conceptual paradigms, theory, knowledge production methods, and intervention. Community Based Learning Course. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Restricted to first-year and sophomore students only, or juniors and seniors with instructor permission. Fall semester. Grayman-Simpson.
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PSY 220 - Personality Psychology (4 Cr.)
Personality refers to an individual’s characteristic patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, together with the psychological mechanisms behind these patterns. This course examines theories of personality, how personality persists and changes across the lifespan, how nature and nurture influence personality, and the measurement of personality. Prerequisite: PSY 105 Spring semester. Program Faculty.
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PSY 221 - Assessment in Education for Improved Practice (2 Cr.) (cross-listed as ED 221)
Knowing how to evaluate a student’s progress and achievement is an essential component in the teaching/learning process. In this course, we explore the macro legislative and accountability context impacting educators including Federal Legislation, Maryland assessment practices, and the Common Core. We practice micro processes of collecting and using information to adjust a particular practice for a particular outcome. We learn to use the “language” of assessment as well as the appropriate and inappropriate uses of assessment results. Theories and basic principles of test construction, progress monitoring, Curriculum-Based Measures, and authentic assessment will be discussed. Spring semester. Program Faculty.
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PSY 222 - Human Learning and Memory (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
This class explores fundamental concepts and current issues in human learning and memory, with a focus on how and why behavior changes with experience, and how this information is stored in the mind. In addition to classic research and theories, there is emphasis on real-world applications, such as in the domains of education, mental health, and the legal system. Prerequisite: PSY 105 Fall semester. McCabe.
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PSY 224 - International Psychology (4 Cr.) (GCR RPP)
This course is an introduction to the psychosocial factors of salience to international communities, with an emphasis on refugees, immigrants, international students, and foreign citizens. This course applies social and human science conceptual paradigms, methods of knowledge production, theory, and intervention to learn, critique, and apply branches of international psychology. This course will cover three primary branches of international psychology: cross-cultural psychology, global mental health perspectives, and immigration psychology. Utilizing a constructivistic de-colonizing approach, this course first offers a cross-cultural understanding of international communities and of the various power, privilege, and oppressive structures in their life experiences. The course also introduces various perspectives on global mental health from an ethical, culture-centered, and critical manner. Students will dialogue about how culture, identity, citizenry, and intersectionality affect global mental health at the individual, community, and system level. Finally, students will critically examine immigration in the U.S., particularly the reasoning behind and process by which individuals migrate to the U.S., the consequences of such migration, and/or the resources to navigate such migration.
Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Offered spring or fall semesters. Ngoubene-Atioky.
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PSY 227 - Feminist Psychology (4 Cr.)
Examination of sociocultural and biological influences on the psychological development of women. Topics will include feminist scholarship and research; gender role socialization; women’s health and well-being; sexuality; and close relationships and family dynamics. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Restricted to first-year and sophomore students only, or juniors and seniors with instructor permission. Spring semester. Program faculty.
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PSY 230 - Social Psychology (4 Cr.)
Study of how the thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and motivations of individuals dynamically interact with the social context that surrounds them. Topics include close relationships, aggression, conformity and obedience, social cognition, group dynamics, stereotypes and prejudice, and the impact of gender roles and cultural ideology on the development of the social self. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Spring semester. Patrick.
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PSY 233 - Sensation and Perception (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
This course is a survey of current theory and research in perception. The primary goal is for students to gain an understanding of how people obtain reliable and useful information about the environment around them through their senses. Exploring several perceptual systems, including vision, audition, touch and pain, and smell and taste, we will cover topics such as the physiological structure of sensory systems, psychophysics, attention, sensory integration, and comparative perception. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Fall semester. Ghirardelli.
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PSY 238 - Psychological Distress and Disorder (4 Cr.)
This course presents different approaches to understanding and conceptualizing psychological distress and disorder. The major psychological disorders will be examined in cultural context. Different theoretical perspectives will be considered, as well as the ways in which psychological disorders have been and are currently treated. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Fall semester; repeated in alternating spring semesters. Program faculty.
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PSY 244 - Lifespan Developmental Psychology (4 Cr.)
A lifespan approach tracing human development from conception through the life cycle until death. Important theoretical contributors are highlighted, including Freud, Erikson, Bowlby, Piaget, Chomsky, Kohlberg, and Kubler-Ross. Topics will include prenatal development, language acquisition, the formation of emotional bonds in relationships, personality and identity development, changes in family and work roles, and the experience of facing one’s mortality. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Fall semester. Choe.
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PSY 245 - Psychology of Environmental Problems (4 Cr.) (cross-listed as ES 245) (GCR-ENV)
This course outlines current environmental problems and their historical bases. The course then explores how different psychological perspectives view the relationship between individuals and the environment, as well as reviews psychological research related to environmental sustainability. Guidance is provided for improving environmental sustainability based on the different psychological perspectives. A major goal of this course is for students to develop an understanding of how psychology can contribute to promoting sustainability of the environment. A community-based learning experience is required. Prerequisite: or PSY 105 . Fall semester. Wilterdink.
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PSY 250 - Statistical Methods in Psychology (4 Cr.) (GCR DAF)
An introduction to and critical examination of statistical and quantitative methods as applied in psychology and related fields. Exploratory, descriptive, and inferential concepts, techniques, and applications are considered including frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, variability and correlation, parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing (binomial tests, t-tests, analyses of variance, chi square, and selected non-parametric approaches). Statistical packages such as SPSS for Windows will be introduced and used throughout the course. Prerequisites: PSY 105 or ED 104 and one additional 200- or 300-level psychology course or ED 207 ; or permission of the instructor. Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Ghirardelli.
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PSY 295 - Independent Work (1-4 Cr.)
Special fields of study within psychology pursued independently under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite: PSY 105 ; sophomore standing; and permission of the instructor.
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PSY 301 - Professional Development in Psychology II (1 Cr.)
Continue to reflect and think critically about goals, motivations, and interests as a psychology student. Explore career paths, and post-undergraduate opportunities including graduate school. Discuss issues of professional comportment and development. Attend and discuss Center for Psychology events related to the field and to career/graduate school topics. Create a plan for remaining semesters at Goucher, and strategies to pursue professional goals in the future. Prerequisite: PSY 201 ; and junior or senior standing. Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Program faculty.
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PSY 302 - Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology (4 Cr.) (GCR DA-AC)
This course will address the overall process of psychological research from the development of a research question to the presentation of research results. Topics to be covered include the role of theory in the scientific method, research design, various collection techniques and analytic strategies for quantitative empirical data, and ethical considerations. Students will develop skills in scientific writing (APA style) and critically reading and reviewing the literature. The course will require statistical analysis of research data and interpretation of the results. WID (Writing in the Discipline) course. Prerequisites: PSY 105 and PSY 250 ; and completion of GCR - Data Analytics Foundational (DA-F) level. Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Choe, Program Faculty.
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PSY 305 - Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology (4 Cr.) (GCR DA-AC)
An introduction to qualitative empirical methods and their application to selected problems of psychology, providing an introduction to issues of qualitative research design, analysis, and report writing. Central topics include narrative approaches, biography, phenomenology, ethnography, grounded theory, and case study. These topics are introduced and developed in the context of student-generated, collaborative research projects of significance to researchers and participants and will involve field observations, open interviews, emergent design, and a variety of approaches to data analysis and interpretation. Ethical considerations are emphasized throughout. WID (Writing in the Discipline) course. Prerequisites: PSY 105 , and PSY 250 ; and completion of GCR - Data Analytics Foundational (DA-F) level. Fall semester, repeated spring semester. Grayman-Simpson, Ngoubene-Atioky.
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PSY 312 - Existential and Humanistic Psychology (4 Cr.)
Major theories of existential and humanistic psychology are covered, including consideration of the work of May, Laing, Frankl, Fromm, Rogers, and Maslow. Themes of human freedom, love, peak experiences, and optimal development will be emphasized. This course has a community-based learning component. Prerequisite: PSY 105 Fall semester. Patrick.
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PSY 322 - Cognitive Psychology (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
The science of Cognitive Psychology involves exploring how the human mind processes information. This includes studying how and why the human mind evolved, how it develops through the lifespan, how it accomplishes the extraordinary achievements necessary for day-to-day living, and what happens when something goes wrong. Major topics include: perception, attention, memory, imagery, language, problem solving, and decision-making. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Spring semester. McCabe.
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PSY 337 - Neuroscience (4 Cr.) (GCR Biological and Physical Sciences area)
This course is an introduction to the relationships between the brain, cognition, emotion, and behavior. Topics include the structure, function, and development of the human nervous system, and the neural bases of sensory and motor systems, learning, stress, atypical development, psychological disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Prerequisite: PSY 105 Spring semester. Starkey.
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PSY 338 - Health Psychology (4 Cr.)
Selected topics relevant to the ways in which the mind, body, and behavior interact in health and disease, including health behaviors and behavior change, coping with illness, self-management approaches to physical illness, the impact of stress and coping on disease and on immune function, and the relationship between psychopathology and physical health. Course involves a community-based learning component. Prerequisite: PSY 105 . Offered in alternating spring semesters. Program Faculty.
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PSY 390 - Internship in Psychology (0-4 Cr.)
Placements available in clinical, school, business, research, and other related settings. Students participate on site under the supervision of professionals in the field and also completed specific assignment(s) as determined by the faculty internship sponsor. Each credit requires 45 internship hours. Graded pass/no-pass only. PSY 390 and 490 must each be taken for a minimum of 2 credits in order to count as an Advanced Practicum Experience (Capstone) for the psychology major. Prerequisites: four courses in psychology and permission of instructor. Offered variable semesters.
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