Fall 2024 Honors College Course Catalog

Important Information:

March 12, 2024: Priority registration.

August 28, 2024: Classes begin.

September 5, 2024: Last day to drop or add classes.

Please note that the honors college dean does not receive course evaluation scores for any course that does not have the HNRS prefix and does not receive narrative comments for any course through the university's course evaluation system. We welcome and encourage your feedback on honors courses. All comments should be directed via email to Anthony Helms.

President Montgomery and some honors students.

 

Course Offerings:

A-S 1850: Introduction to Pre-Health Professions-HC 

42526       HYBRID     TR     6:00 - 7:50 p.m.     1710 WOOD     2 credit hours     Megan Larson
*Note: This is a short course that only meets for the first seven weeks of the semester.
*Note: While it is intended for first-years, all new students are welcome to enroll in the class.
The goal of this seminar course is to introduce new Pre-Health Professions students to both the academic aspects of college (via Study Skills Seminars, etc) as well as the pathways towards fields in Healthcare (via panel discussions and a research project). This course prepares students to undertake and successfully manage the challenges and responsibilities of a Pre-Health Professions student. It is intended to (1) enhance students’ academic skills while focusing on engagement and a successful transition to the university setting; (2) focus on enhancing skills that pertain to college life; (3) focus on personal exploration; (4) help students begin to make decisions about their majors and careers, which can be intimidating choices for a first-year student.

ACTY 2110: Intro to Managerial Accounting and Strategic Decision Making - HC

41367     MW     11:00 - 12:15 p.m.     1320 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Emily Szatkowski
Prerequisites & Corequisites: Prerequisite: ACTY 2100 with a grade of “C” or better.
*Note: This course satisfies WES Quantitative Literacy (QL).
A study of the role of accounting information in the planning and decision-making of business organizations. The course focuses on financial analysis, manufacturing cost flows, budgeting, and planning for short-term operating decisions and long-term financing and investing activities.

ADA 2250: Drug Use: Personal and Social Impact - HC

41373     W     2:00 - 4:30 p.m.    2060 CHHS      3 credit hours     Anta Lutz    
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area VIII: Health and Well-Being.
*Note: This course satisfies This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Personal Wellness (PW).
This course is designed to increase understanding of substance abuse, alcohol and other drug use through the public health disease model with an emphasis on psychological, physiological and social consequences of use and abuse. An overview of prevention, case finding and treatment strategies are provided.

ART 3330: Pottery for the People-HC

45472     MW     2:00 - 3:50 p.m.     K1003 SKHRM    3 credit hours     Caitlin Zachow
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level III: Connections – Global Perspectives.
A hands-on learning course investigating clay construction of pottery, sculptures and tile. Through diverse global traditions, students will explore techniques in form and finish along with experimental firing.

BCM 1420: Intro to Business Communication-HC

43258     MW     11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.     1265 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Marie Moreno
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations - Writing.
Development of the basic composition skills required of the competent writer in business and professions. Through continuing directed practice in writing, students develop competence in the organization and presentation of facts and information in writing. 

Thesis poster presentation.

BCM 3700: Professional Business Communication-HC

45572     MW     12:30 - 1:45 p.m.     1335 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Beth Ernst
*Prerequisites: Junior standing
*Note: Restricted to majors/minors across multiple departments. Please see advisor for specific program restrictions.
This course is designed to expand students’ understanding of the complexities of integrating written, oral, visual, and electronic modes of communication in business through class-based and experiential activities. Individual and team projects provide practical experience in developing appropriate communication strategies in a variety of personal and professional contexts that reflects upon  students’ ability to analyze an audience, adapt to the audience, and send messages that achieve  business goals.

BIOS 1120: Principles of Biology-HC

44969     Asynchronous Online     3 credit hours     Gabriel Almeida Alves
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery – Scientific Literacy with Lab Category is taken with BIOS 1100.
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area VI: Natural Science with Laboratory.
*Note: Credit does not apply for Biology or Biomedical Sciences majors.
A course designed to provide a natural science foundation for BIOS minors, Allied Health majors, and to fulfill liberal/WMU Essential Studies requirements. Foundation concepts in cell biology, human anatomy and physiology, botany, human genetics, microbiology, and ecology are presented for students who do not have strong biology and chemistry backgrounds.

BLS 3050: Intro to Adults with Disabilities - HC

44919     Asynchronous Online     3 credit hours     Mandy Cox
43894     W     6:00 - 8:30 p.m.     TBD     3 credit hours     Michele Jimenez
*Note: This course satisfies Gen Ed Area III: US Cultures and Issues.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 3: Connections - Local & National Perspectives.
*Note: Meets WES Diversity & Inclusion SLO.
This course is intended to help students understand the impact of disability on the individual, in society, and to understand the contributions that can be made by persons with disabilities when they are accepted members of society. This course will present an overview of various disabilities, the services which have developed to help individuals function independently, and the capabilities of persons with disabilities. The student will gain an overview of medical aspects of disability, the demographics of disability, and issues relating to integration into society. The various components which make up independent functioning in our society will be examined as will the adjustment issues relating to disability.

BUS 1750: Business Enterprise - HC 

41429     MW     9:30 - 10:45 p.m.     1335 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Robert Brown
43787     TR       2:00 - 3:15 p.m.       1335 SCHDR    3 credit hours     Bret Wagner
Students will download a 75 minute video lecture each week that covers business theory and practice.
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area V: Social and Behavioral Sciences. 
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations – Oral and Digital Communications.
This course introduces students to the development and value of business institutions in society. Students will examine the dynamics of business decision-making and demonstrate the ability to identify, define, and interpret essential business concepts. The relationships among business activities will be studied to determine their interactions with the economic, political, legal, global, and social environments.

CHEM 1100: General Chemistry I - HC        

43902    MWF     12:00 - 12:50 p.m.     1260 CHEM     3 credit hours    Kristen Burns
43903    MWF     11:00 - 11:50 a.m.      1260 CHEM     3 credit hours    Ekkehard Sinn
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area VI: Natural Science with Laboratory.
*Prerequisites: One year of high school chemistry; and one of the following: MATH 1110 or MATH 1180 or MATH 2000 (with a minimum grade of “C” or better in any prerequisite) or ACT minimum score 25 or SAT minimum score 560 or adequate performance on the MATH placement tool.
The theory and fundamental principles of chemistry are emphasized in this foundation course which serves primarily those who intend to enroll for more than two semesters of chemistry. Students well prepared may earn credit by taking an examination.

CHEM 1110: General Chemistry Lab I - HC   

40467     T     8:00 - 10:50 a.m.     1 credit hour     2831 CHEM     Kristen Burns
43126     W    8:00 - 10:50 a.m.     1 credit hour     2851 CHEM     Kristen Burns
40468     W    2:00 - 4:50 p.m.       1 credit hour     2851 CHEM     Kristen Burns
40469     T     2:00 - 4:50 p.m.       1 credit hour     2831 CHEM     Kristen Burns
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area VI: Natural Science with Laboratory.
*Prerequisite: One of the following: Math 1110 or MATH 1180 or MATH 2000 (with a minimum grade of “C” or better in any prerequisite) or ACT minimum score 25 or SAT minimum score 560 or adequate performance on the MATH placement tool; and CHEM 1100 with a minimum grade of “C” or better (may be taken concurrently).
*Note: When taken in conjunction with CHEM 1100, this course meets WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Scientific Literacy with Lab Category. 
*Note: This course also meets the Planetary Sustainability student learning outcome.
The companion laboratory course to CHEM 1100. This course is also intended for students who completed a general chemistry course without laboratory at another institution. 

Three studetns making the W with their hands.

CHEM 1120: General Chemistry II-HC

42409     MWF     10:00 - 10:50 a.m.     1718 WOOD     3 credit hours     Gellert Mezei
*Prerequisites: CHEM 1100 and CHEM 1110 (with a minimum grade of “C” or better in all prerequisites); and CHEM 1130 with a minimum grade of “C” or better (may be taken concurrently). 
*Note: This section does not meet our standard 25 student cap, but is significantly smaller than non-honors sections.
The properties of a number of the more representative elements and the compounds which they form are studied. Chemical relationships in the periodic table, electrochemistry, and the equilibrium principle are also treated. 

CIS 2500: Data Analytics for Business-HC

44587     MW     11:00 - 12:15 p.m.     1355 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Utkarsh Shrivastava
*Prerequisite: MATH 1160 or equivalent
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Science and Technology.
Data analytics is a versatile discipline that has revolutionized the various fields of social sciences such as management, business, psychology, political sciences and etc. This course introduces students to data analysis principles, methods, and tools that are used in social science disciplines. Students will be introduced to various types of analytics tools and techniques used to solve societal problems. Data types, databases, and data visualization techniques are introduced in this course. Students also learn data analytics foundations from the perspective of social sciences scenarios and demonstrate how to apply their knowledge and skills they learn in this course to support data driven, comprehensive, reason and evidence-based conclusions. To understand data analytics applications in social science, students work on various cases in contexts such as business, management, and organizational psychology (e.g., consumer behavior, organizational behavior, …).

CIS 2700: IT Foundations for Business-HC

42072     TR     11:00 - 12:15 p.m.     1220 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Anne-Marie Guidy-Oulai
*Prerequisites: (CIS 1020 or CIS 1100 or CS 1000 or CS 1050 or FCS 2250 or MUS 3860 or HPHE 1490) and (BCM 1420 or ENGL 1050 or IEE 1020); sophomore class standing required.
*Restricted to majors/minors across multiple departments. Please see advisor for specific program restrictions.
This course introduces the fundamentals of information-communication literacy, system literacy, and business information systems. An information system is an organizational and sociotechnical system which incorporates technology, people and processes for automation, collection, storage, and distribution of information. Information-communication literacy, a learning skill needed by information age learners, allow successful individuals to think critically, analyze data to extract new information, apply knowledge and skills to new situations, communicate, collaborate, solve problems by making effective decisions. This course emphasizes the role of Information Technology (IT) in improving contemporary business processes and competitive advantage. The critical role of IT in organizational change, business transformation, IT culture, alignment of information systems with business strategy are frequently emphasized. Students learn the concepts of Digital Business Model, E-Commerce, Mobile Commerce, Data Analytics, and Social Medias. They delve into the concepts of technology innovation, disruption and maturation. Students are introduced to the application of cutting-edge technology in functional business areas. Essential topics such as cybersecurity and risk management, IT ethics, privacy, and sustainability, business intelligence and Google Analytics are also presented and discussed. Through experiential activities such as team and individual class projects as well as real world business cases, students understand the complexity of business enterprises and go through the practical application of IT in modern business.

COM 1040: Public Speaking - HC

43093     TR     9:30 - 10:45 a.m.     3010 BROWN     3 credit hours     Keith Hearit   
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Proficiency 4: Oral Communications.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations - Oral and Digital Communication (ODC).
Study of the application of principles of communication underlying effective oral presentations, with attention given to speaking in business, professional and public settings. Includes practice in preparing, presenting and evaluating speeches and other forms of oral presentations. This course may be offered in an accelerated format.

COM 1700: Interpersonal Communication-HC

44292     TR     2:00 - 3:15 p.m.     4003 BROWN     3 credit hours     Jasmine Labine
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Proficiency 4: Oral Communications.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery – Personal Wellness.
An introductory course in communication theory and practice in which students utilize their powers of speech to increase their effectiveness in interpersonal relations through understanding of self and others. This course may be offered in an accelerated format.

COM 3350: Leadership Communication-HC

43891     TR     3:30 - 4:45 p.m.     4035 BROWN     3 credit hours     Randy Ott
*Prerequisites: (COM 1000 or COM 1700) and COM 2000; with a grade of “C” or better.
*Restricted to specific School of Communication majors/minors. Please see advisor for program restrictions.
An overview of theories of leadership with a focus on key communication processes. Emphasis will also be placed on the application of these theories to organizational contexts.

ECON 2010: Principles of Microeconomics - HC

42647     TR     8:00 - 9:15 a.m.     1121 MOORE     3 credit hours     Jean Kimmel
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area V: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations - Quantitative Literacy (QL).
An introduction to microeconomics, the study of the price system and resource allocation, problems of monopoly, and the role of government in regulating and supplementing the price system.

ENGL 1050: Foundations in Written Communication: Strategies, Behaviors, Success-HC

44361     MW     11:00 - 12:15 p.m.       2429 DUNBR     3 credit hours     Nicole Mullis 
44362     MW       11:00 - 12:15 p.m.     1045 BROWN     3 credit hours     Kalani Burghard
*Restrictions: The following pre-programs are excluded from enrolling: Pre-Engineering and Pre-Aviation Flight Science.
*Prerequisite: Satisfactory ACT English score, or placement essay, or ENGL 1000.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations – Writing.
A foundational writing course offering students practice and guidance in the strategies and behaviors that contribute to success in written communication and information literacy. Emphasis on the production, reception, and revision of writing for varied audiences, situations, and information needs. 

Honors college grad standing in front of Miller Fountain.

ENGL 2660: Writing Fiction and Poetry-HC

44766     TR     12:00 - 1:40 p.m.     4433 DUNBR     4 credit hours     Thisbe Nissen and Alen Hamza
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery – Artistic Theory and Practice.
Study and practice in writing of fiction and poetry, intended to develop the student’s understanding of formal techniques and skill in the use of these techniques. 

ES 2800: Human Flourishing and the Pursuit of Happiness-HC

43675     TR     12:30 - 1:45 p.m.     1024 LHC     3 credit hours     Jessica Heybach 
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area II: Humanities. May be repeated for credit.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1:Foundations - Inquiry and Engagement (IE).
This course is designed to address the enduring question “What is Human Flourishing?” Drawing from philosophy, literature and the social sciences, we introduce students to conceptions, visions, and conditions of human flourishing, its changing nature across many periods of Western history, its manifold expressions in contemporary life, and its pursuit in the local community. This course is also an invitation to explore one’s own biases about what it is to flourish and achieve (or at least pursue) happiness.

GPS 1500: Intro to Graphic & Printing Sciences Lab - HC

44104     R     2:30 - 5:20 p.m.    C0208 FLOYD    0 credit hours     Lois Lemon
Lecture CRN is 43901 (4 credit hours, must be taken with lab)
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area VI: Natural Science with Laboratory.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Scientific Literacy with a Lab.
An introductory course describing the printing/imaging industry. Image Design, preparation, generation, photo imaging by photomechanical and desktop systems, proofing, presswork, and bindery. A comparison of all printing methods will be included. Learning environment enhance by hands-on experience.

HNRS 1015: Introductory Honors Seminar

44810     TR     12:30 - 1:20 p.m.     1014 LHC     2 credit hours     Bethany Gauthier
*Note: Course is restricted to first-year honors students only.
This is the first-year experience seminar for Lee Honors College students. This seminar will introduce students to the Lee Honors College, University resources and will provide support during the first semester transition to the University. Taught in a small group setting, students will interact with a faculty member and a student leader either once or twice a week. HNRS 1015 seminar will include weekly class meetings, sharing a common reading and research experience, project-based assignments, written assignments, and attendance at selected University events. The importance of writing skills, critical thinking skills, communication skills, and study skills will be emphasized, as well as exploration of major and career opportunities.

HNRS 2500: Politics of Genocide

41559   M     6:00 - 8:20 p.m.     1022 LHC     3 credit hours     Thomas Kostrzewa
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area V: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
*Note: This course fulfills WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery – World Language and Culture (WLC).
While the use of the term genocide is relatively recent, the act of genocide is very old. The purpose of this course is to broaden the discussion of genocide beyond its usual association with World War II and the Jewish Holocaust and systematically examine the relationship between nationalism, political power, and the dehumanization of certain groups that has led to genocide in the past and sustains genocide in the present. Cases discussed in the course will include, but are not limited to, Armenia, Tibet, Rwanda, South Africa, The United States, Indonesia, Kurdistan, Congo, Cambodia, Ukraine, and the Balkans.

HNRS 2501: Thinking with Rivers - Getting to Know the Kalamazoo

45719     TR     11:00 - 12:15 p.m.     1022 LHC     3 credit hours     Matthew Nielsen
*Note: This course fulfills WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery – Societies and Cultures.
This class blends environmental sciences and humanities in an effort to answer two primary questions. The first is relatively straightforward: What is a river? The second may be more provocative: Are rivers living things? Over the course of the semester, students will consider how rivers work and the relationships rivers have with surrounding landscapes and human societies. Readings will introduce students to several rivers from around the world. Class discussions will encourage creative and critical thinking about the management of rivers. Research activities will provide students with opportunities to get to know the Kalamazoo River and share their findings. 

HNRS 2900: Exploring Your Personal Brand as Digital Footprint

44730     M     4:00 - 5:40 p.m.    1014 LHC     1 credit hour     Diana Hearit
*Note: This is a short run course and will conclude by fall break.
As students transition through college in preparation for a career or graduate school, it is important to explore the idea of a personal brand. Upon this foundational conceptualization of who they are communicatively and stylistically, they will create and enhance their digital footprint in terms of their career and interpersonal goals. We will explore best practices for personal brand development and self-marketing with an emphasis on self-assessment, experiential learning, and effective communication. Additional topics to explore include emotional intelligence, interviewing, and portfolio development.

HNRS 2900: Exploring Leadership Identity Development

45727     T     4:00 - 5:40 p.m.     1022 LHC     1 credit hour     Malia Roberts
*Note: This is a short run course and will conclude by fall break.
This course will utilize an established leadership identity development model to explore the dynamic process of how individual leadership identity is formed through group interactions, which can change our view of self with others and broaden our understanding of leadership. Students will participate in activities that inform their leadership beliefs as developing leaders and foster new levels of awareness in a leadership context.HNRS 3202: Modernism in Art & Literature

HNRS 3202: Modernism in Art & Literature

42521    MW     12:30 - 1:45 p.m.     1004 RCVA     3 credit hours      Jeffrey Abshear
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area II: Humanities.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Artistic Theory and Practice (ATP).
The early 20th century was a rich period of innovation in art and literature. Thanks to the efforts of artists and writers including Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, Ernest Hemingway, and D.H. Lawrence, our conception of art and culture was transformed. In this class we will read novels and short stories, and study paintings and sculptures, by these and other important figures of this revolutionary period. We will examine artistic movements including Cubism, Futurism, and Surrealism and discuss the ways in which the artists and writers interacted with one another and were affected by historical events. This is a class for students interested in art, who like to read, and want to discover more about the artistic developments of Modernism. 

A group of honors students in front of the Charles Wright Museum.

HNRS 3203: Utopian & Dystopian Fiction

42545     MW     10:00 - 11:15 a.m.     1022 LHC     3 credit hours       Becky Cooper
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area II: Humanities.
*Note: This course fulfills WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery – Societies and Cultures. 
At least since Thomas More’s celebrated work the idea of a utopia simultaneously conjures up two distinct meanings: first, as an imaginative idea of an idealized community in which humankind, having seemingly attained sufficient mastery or even perfection, seeks to create a rational, equitable, and just society offering genuine human fellowship and solidarity; and second, as an utter impossibility, as “no place,” for as the “good place,” the imaginative ideal seeking the common good, is yet to be realized, and perhaps is inherently unattainable, utopia is simultaneously “nowhere.” Over time, these twin meanings of utopia, meanings purposefully, ironically, and artistically joined in More’s book, separate into two distinct and immensely popular traditions: the utopian novel, culminating in 19th century works such as Edward Bellamy’s Looking Backward and carried forward into the next century by Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s Herland, and the dystopian novel, prefigured by Dostoevsky’s Notes from Underground and The Legend of the Grand Inquisitor(found in The Brothers Karamazov) and most famously expressed in novels by Zamyatin, Huxley, and Orwell. Whatever qualities of scientific invention, fantasy, and imagination are present in our readings, we find that the utopian imagination expresses very real and human desires that arise from a given author’s discontents with his or her historical circumstances. We will trace the development of utopian desire giving way to dystopian discontent through a chronological reading of our novels and selected films, taking pains to grasp each work within both its historical and literary context as well as its ongoing relevance to our contemporary lives. The course seeks to foster enhanced critical thinking, reading, and interpretive skills as well as to provide students with the opportunity to improve in the conception, writing, and revision of their critical essays.

HNRS 3301: Jazz, Blues, & the Harlem Renaissance   

42871     MW     2:00 - 3:15 p.m.     1014 LHC     3 credit hours     Elizabeth Cowan
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area III: United States: Culture and Issues.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Local and National Perspectives (LNP).
*Note: Meets WES Diversity & Inclusion SLO.
“Jazz, Blues, and the Harlem Renaissance” seeks to reevaluate the cultural significance and meaning of the Jazz Age through the intensive study of the major literary and musical artists, critics, and philosophers embodied in the creative energies found within the “New Negro” movement. By placing special emphasis on the literary achievements of authors such as Langston Hughes, Jean Toomer, Nella Larsen, and Zora Neale Hurston, as well as the emergence and dissemination of jazz and blues between 1920-1950 (from Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, and Duke Ellington through Charlie Parker and Thelonious Monk) we discover a different yet crucial expression of the very experience and rhythm of modernity and a striking counterpoint to the “Waste Land” of T.S. Eliot. We will also focus on how the era sought to challenge America’s “strange fruit,” its fundamental perceptions and contradictions on race, class, and artistry embedded within its culture and identity from the era of slavery to the present in works that celebrate the nation’s intrinsic individualism, freedom, and multiculturalism.

HNRS 4101: Introduction to World Cinema        

43913     T     6:00 - 8:30 p.m.     1024 LHC     3 credit hours     Monty Ernst
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area I: Fine Arts
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Global Perspectives (GP).
The course objective is to provide an overview of World Cinema and the interrelationships between National Cinemas. Though particular attention will be given to the Cinemas of Europe, students will also be introduced to Cinemas of Japan, China, India, Africa, Middle East, South America, and others. Each session will include a short introduction to the material and a screening of a film. General areas covered include the history of individual National Cinemas, the variety of different film movements, and the influence of these movements on American films. Coursework includes several small projects involving viewing films outside of class, a major final paper/presentation, and two exams.

HNRS 4980: How and Why to Write an Undergraduate Thesis    

42386     ONLINE     1 credit hour     Beth Beaudin-Seiler                  
42509     ONLINE     1 credit hour     Kerrie Harvey
42584     ONLINE     1 credit hour     Joe Schuetz
This online course covers all aspects of preparing and completing an honors thesis. Included are modules on identifying a thesis topic, conducting a literature review, citing sources, finding a thesis committee, structuring the thesis, and defending the thesis.

Students with small plants.

HOL 2801: Health and Well Being – HC

41825     T     4:00 - 6:30 p.m.     1014 LHC     3 credit hours     Amy Geib
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area VIII: Health and Well-Being.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Personal Wellness (PW).
This course is designed to provide information on the multiple dimensions of health and well-being. This course is designed to promote greater awareness, understanding and ownership of the multiple dimensions of health and well-being. This course provides students with a holistic approach to understanding self and community through a health focus. Through dialog, experiential activities, service-learning and reflection, students explore theory and practice in the following areas: culture, research, and self-care; and well-being encompassing mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, environmental, social, and vocational health. As a Service Learning course it requires a minimum of 15 hours of service with a course-relevant community partner, which will count toward the Lee Honors College service requirement.

HSV 2250: Lifespan Development-HC                   

44805     TR     9:30 - 10:45 a.m.     1024 LHC      3 credit hours     Janet Hahn
43620     TR     3:30 - 4:45 p.m.       1024 LHC      3 credit hours     Stephanie Althoff
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area V: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations - Inquiry and Engagement (IE).
A study of physical, mental, emotional, and social patterns of growth, development, and aging. Aspects to be given special emphasis for the health student will be motor development, physiology of aging, growth patterns, and functional development in any of the above aspects.

IEE 1020: Technical Communications-HC             

42220     TR     1:00 - 2:15 p.m.      C0124 FLOYD     3 credit hours    Dana Butt  
42213     TR     11:30 - 12:45 p.m.   C0141 FLOYD     3 credit hours    Laurel Palmer 
42222     TR     4:00 - 5:15 p.m.      D0208 FLOYD     3 credit hours     Scot Conant    
42217     TR     5:30 - 6:45 p.m.     C0124 FLOYD     3 credit hours     Oliver Carr
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations - Writing (WR).
It is essential that engineering and technology students write effectively. Technical writing presents facts using language that even non-technical audiences can understand. In this class students choose topics related to their individual field of study/interest. Principles of objective presentation of factual material in written, oral, and electronic communication, with emphasis on the research process. Content, format, and mechanics, as well as a clear, concise style are important components of individual and collaborative assignments.

MATH 1160: Finite Mathematics with Applications-HC

45504     MWF     1:00 - 1:50 p.m.     1235 SCHDR    3 credit hours     Anthony Wilburn
*Prerequisite: MATH 1100 (with a grade of “C” or better) or by placement into the course. Placement may be determined by completing at least 3 years of college preparatory mathematics, by ACT/SAT scores and/or by a Department of Mathematics placement mechanism.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations - Quantitative Literacy.
This course is designed to provide a background in finite mathematics and to continue the development of algebra skills. The following finite mathematics topics will be covered: linear equations and inequalities, mathematical models, solving a system of two linear equations, linear programming, difference/recursive equations, the mathematics of finance, sets, Venn diagrams, counting techniques, and an introduction to basic and conditional probability. The following algebraic topics will be reviewed: fractions, basic algebraic terminology and properties, exponents, scientific notation, solving equations and literal equations, and an introduction to summation and multiplication notations. A graphing calculator is required. Tutoring is available for all Math 1160 students. A graphing calculator is required.

MATH 1220: Calculus I-HC                 

40421     MTRF     10:00 - 10:50 a.m.     3391 ROOD     4 credit hours     Jeffrey Strom
44786     MTRF     10:00 - 10:50 a.m.     3393 ROOD     4 credit hours     M.D. Hernandez
*Note: In addition to the cost of a three credit class, there is a Mathematics Class Fee $15.00 Flat Fee
*Note: This course satisfies WES Quantitative Literacy (QL).
*Prerequisite: MATH 1180 Min grade=C or ACT Math Test Score at least 27 or SAT Mathematics Test Score at least 610.
The first of a two-semester sequence in differential and integral calculus. Functions, limits, continuity, techniques and applications of differentiation, integration, trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions.

Honors college alumnus in the cockpit.

MGMT 2500: Organizational Behavior-HC

45481    TR     11:00 – 12:15 p.m.    1355 SCHDR     3 credit hours     Chen Wang
* Prerequisite: BUS 1750
* Restrictions: This course is restricted to majors/minors across multiple departments. Please see advisor for specific program restrictions.
* Restricted to majors/minors across multiple departments. Please see advisor for specific program restrictions.
This course provides an examination of individual, interpersonal, group, and organization processes faced by employees. Current theory, research, and practice regarding variables that influence human behavior are discussed. Emphasis is placed on learning relevant to goal setting, managing change, team processes, reward structures, human productivity, and career management in organization settings.

PHIL 2000: Intro to Philosophy-HC

40805     TR     10:00 - 11:40 p.m.     1014 LHC     4 credit hours     McGwire Hidden     
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area II: Humanities.
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 1: Foundations – Inquiry and Engagement: Critical Thinking in the Arts and Humanities.
An introduction to the nature of philosophy by a consideration of major types of philosophical questions, such as the principles of rational belief, the existence of God, what is the good life, the nature of knowledge, the problem of truth and verification. Selected texts from representative philosophers are used to define the questions and to present typical answers.

A group of student volunteers standing in front of Gibbs house holding vegetables harvested from the garden.

PSCI 3200: The American Judical Process-HC

45564     MW     10:00 - 11:40 a.m.     1014 LHC     4 credit hours     Mark Hurwitz
An introduction to the politics of the American judicial process. The course will examine the judicial function generally with particular attention on the decisional processes, process participants, state and federal court structures, recruitment and selection of judges, bases of judicial behavior, policy making, and impact of judicial decisions.

PSY 1000: General Psychology-HC    

43379     Fully Synchronous Online/TR 12:30 - 1:45 p.m.     3 credit hours     Sean Field  
*Note: This course satisfies Gen Ed Area V: Social and Behavioral Sciences
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Science and Technology (ST).
This course is a general introduction to the study of behavior. The reading materials and coursework provide a framework for answering the question: “Why do humans (and other animals) behave as they do?” The course consists of approximately 30 units of study covering the approach to, finding of, and research methods of the science known as behavior analysis. Throughout these units students will develop an understanding of behavior by applying the concepts and principles covered in the course materials to a variety of situations in the lives of themselves and people in general. Students will participate in class discussion, complete relevant conceptual worksheets, and take regular/daily unit exams.

PSY 1400: Introduction to Behavior Analysis-HC     

41705     MW     10:00 - 11:40 a.m.     2720 SANGN     4 credit hours     Ron Van Houten
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 2: Exploration and Discovery - Science and Technology (ST).
Provides the foundation for many of the other courses in the Psychology major, by introducing students to the principles of conditioning and learning, and behavior analysis concepts that can be applied to clinical, counseling, school, experimental, child, sports, community, and industrial psychology, as well as autism, psychoses, anorexia, phobia, ethics, religion, gender, procrastination, sexual behavior, drug use, speech pathology, developmental disabilities, social work, special education, behavioral medicine, animal training, juvenile corrections, and everyday life.

PSY 1600: Child Psychology-HC

45578     TR     12:30 - 1:45 p.m.     2708 WOOD     3 credit hours     Scott Gaynor
*Prerequisite: PSY 1000 with a grade of “C” or better.
An introduction to behavior principles in the analysis of complex behavior with an emphasis upon early childhood learning and the techniques for enhancing children’s development. Topics include mental retardation, behavioral problems in childhood, emotional development and language learning.

New honors college grad in regalia.

REL 3180: Death, Dying and Beyond-HC

45802     W     4:00 - 6:30 p.m.     1014 LHC     4 credit hours     Jennifer Townsend
*Note: This course satisfies WMU Essential Studies Level 3: Connections – Global Perspectives Category.
*Note: This course satisfies General Education Area II: Humanities.
Focuses on death, dying, and the afterlife in the religious traditions of the world. Traditions and regions covered may vary by year and could include the religious traditions of Japan, China, India, and the United States as well as the religious traditions of Christianity or Islam. How one dies, how others view that death, how the body is disposed of, what role the death plays in the life and times of others, the history that develops from it, and what the common beliefs are regarding life beyond death are some of the questions that this course will address. Discussion each week may focus on burial customs, views of the afterlife, the grieving process, hospice, suicide, pollution, ritual, abortion, and other topics. Readings will be drawn from a variety of sources.

 

Experiential Credits

ED 4700: Intern Teaching: Early Childhood        

Various     Varies     5 credit hours     Staff
*Note: In addition to the cost of a five credit class, there is a Student Liability-Education $5.00 Flat Fee
*Restriction: This course is restricted to the following major(s): Early Childhood Prof Educ (ECEJ); Early Childhood Education (ECEM); Early Childhood (ECEN); Early Childhood & Elem Educ (EEEN).
Only for seniors who have been admitted to teacher education. This internship is required a semester or session prior to the full semester internship. This experience consists of five half-days per week in a fall or spring semester or five full days per week in a summer session in a pre-kindergarten program. Students will synthesize the knowledge, apply the understandings, and practice the skills which they acquired during University course work. They will participate in all phases of the school program where they are assigned. To be undertaken concurrently with ED 4090.

ED 4710: Intern Teaching: Elem/Mid School

Various     Varies     4 credit hours     Staff
*Note: In addition to the cost of a four credit class, there is a Student Liability-Education $5.00 Flat Fee
*Restriction: This course is restricted to certain majors. Please see the course listing online for a complete list.
*Prerequisites: All other courses and program requirements must be completed prior to Intern Teaching.
*Note: All sections count for honors college credit.
This course is only for seniors who have been admitted to teacher education and have completed all of their professional studies courses. This will be the final field experience consisting of five days per week in an educational setting. Students will synthesize the knowledge, apply the understandings, and practice the skills which they acquired during their University course work. They will participate in all phases of the school program where they are assigned. To be taken concurrently with ED 4100. Prerequisites: All other courses and program requirements must be completed prior to Intern Teaching.

Students being interviewed.

ED 4750: Intern Teaching: Mid/Sec School

Various     Varies     5 credit hours     Staff
*Note: In addition to the cost of a five credit class, there is a Student Liability-Education $5.00 Flat Fee
*Restriction: This course is restricted to certain majors. Please see the course listing online for a complete list.
*Note: All sections count for honors college credit.
Students devote a minimum of five days per week for one semester to intern teaching. They are expected to have experience in both the curricular and extra-curricular programs of the school in which they teach.

ENGR 2980: Cooperative Education

Arranged     3 credit hours
*The following classes are restricted from taking this course: Freshman.
A parallel cooperative education program or internship; involves part-time planned and supervised work experience related to a student's major during a semester. A written report of the student's work activities will be required.

ENGR 2990: Cooperative Education

Arranged     3 credit hours
*The following classes are restricted from taking this course: Freshman, Sophomore.
A parallel cooperative education program or internship; involves part-time planned and supervised work experience related to a student's major during a semester. A written report of the student's work activities will be required.

ENGR 3980: Cooperative Education

Arranged     3 credit hours
*The following classes are restricted from taking this course: Freshman, Sophomore.
A parallel cooperative education program or internship; involves part-time planned and supervised work experience related to a student's major during a semester. A written report of the student's work activities will be required.

ENGR 3990: Cooperative Education

Arranged     3 credit hours
*The following classes are restricted from taking this course: Freshman, Sophomore.
A parallel cooperative education program or internship; involves part-time planned and supervised work experience related to a student's major during a semester. A written report of the student's work activities will be required.

HNRS 3990: Field Experience Practicum

Various     Varies     Variable credit hours           
**For course registration, complete the Agreement Form.

Cold Case program participants.

HNRS 4950: Individual Study

Variable credit hours
**For course registration, complete the Agreement Form.

HNRS 4990: Honors College Thesis

Variable credit hours
**For course registration, complete the Registration Form.

Other Ways to Earn Honors Credit

In addition to the courses listed above, there are many other ways to earn honors credit. Please see below for options according to whether you have a course requirement (joined the honors college prior to the 2014-15 academic year) or credit hour requirement (joined honors college fall 2014 or after). If you are unsure about your specific requirements, please refer to your original requirements letter.

Course Requirement - The following options may count for ONE (1) honors course

  • One field experience or independent study. Visit the the website for more information.
  • Two semesters of a foreign language or American Sign Language. Courses must be taken at WMU after you become a member of the honors college.
  • Two semesters of a music ensemble, dance performance or theatre practicum resulting in academic credit on your transcript.
  • Any study abroad experience that results in academic credit on your transcript.

Credit hour requirement - Up to half of your honors course credit requirement may be satisfied with the options listed below. Students receive experiential honors credits via an approved internship/field experience or independent study for honors credits. Please note that to receive credit for internship/field experience or independent study, the appropriate approval form must be submitted PRIOR to initiation of the experience. It is possible to receive honors credit for more than one field experience or independent study with prior approval by the honors college dean or associate dean. Approval will only be granted if the experiences are substantially different.

  • Independent study, field experience, co-op, internships and clinicals that result in academic credit on your transcript.
  • Four honors credits will be given for two semesters of the same foreign language. May be repeated for additional honors credit for additional foreign language(s). However, no additional honors credit will be given if a student takes more than two semesters of the same language.
  • Honors credit may be awarded for approved non-honors experiential courses in dance, music or theater as well as for participation in a varsity sports course. Up to three credits may be counted toward honors credit hour requirements and these may be accrued by repeating a course, or by taking multiple approved courses. Please see an honors college advisor for details.
  • Study abroad credits appearing on a student's WMU transcript, whether for a WMU course or a course run through another institution, will be counted as honors credit, up to a limit of 3 credits per semester. Multiple study abroad experiences may count for additional honors credit with honors college advisor, associate dean or dean approval.