Academic Catalog

Integrative Core Curriculum

MCLA’s Integrative Core Curriculum represents the core of our liberal arts mission: through our Core Curriculum, we prepare students for a diverse world; for decision-making that leads to academic, professional and personal success; and for an appreciation of civic responsibility. Students will be invited into an experiential and integrative curriculum that challenges them to develop themselves as critical thinkers, researchers, communicators and problem solvers.  

Integrative Core Curriculum Learning Outcomes

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1. Students choose appropriate form(s) of expression to effectively communicate with audiences from different backgrounds and perspectives.
  2. Students defend their positions making reference to diverse perspectives.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Students synthesize contrasting/conflicting information and perspectives to accurately understand problems.
  2. Students apply contextually appropriate methods and approaches when analyzing and solving problems.
  3. Students make connections across disciplines and personal experience when solving problems.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Students engage in meaningful self-reflection and evaluation of their own learning and contributions. 

Integrative Core Curriculum Requirements

Integrative Foundational Level
Critical Reading, Thinking, Writing3
Health and Wellness3
Quantitative Reasoning3
Integrative Content Level
Creative Arts6
Language, Culture, and Communication3
Human Heritage6
Self & Society6
Science & Technology (Two courses — at least one must have laboratory)7-8
First Year Seminar (One Integrative Content course will also fulfill Freshman Seminar requirement.)
Integrative Capstone Seminar3
Total Hours40-41

Integrative Foundational Level

Critical Reasoning, Thinking, Writing

ENGL 150College Writing3
ENGL 150ECollege Writing-Enhanced4

Health and Wellness 

CCHW 110Topics in Health and Wellness3
HLTH 115Science of Human Wellness3
HLTH 201Exercise Science3
PHED 215Lifetime Wellness3

Quantitative Reasoning 

MATH 102Mathematics for Liberal Arts3
MATH 150Precalculus3
MATH 220Calculus I3
MATH 232Introduction to Statistics3
MATH 232EIntroduction to Statistics - Enhanced4
MATH 232HHonors: Introduction to Statistics3
MATH 270Statistics and Data Analysis4

Critical Reasoning, Thinking and Writing Learning Outcomes

Courses designated as Critical Reasoning, Thinking and Writing will meet one or more of the overall Interactive Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1. Write in multiple genres using appropriate structure, paragraphing, tone, style, and grammar to respond to a variety of audiences and rhetorical situations.
  2. Revise and edit written communication across multiple drafts.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Ethically integrate information from credible sources to answer a research question or construct a problem statement.
  2. Research, evaluate, synthesize, critique, and add their own ideas to published sources.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Comprehend a diversity of texts written for different audiences and purposes

Health and Wellness Learning Outcomes

Courses designated as Health and Wellness will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Explain how their behaviors and choices intersect with societal factors that contribute to wellness
  2. Engage in research and critical evaluation of wellness practices, contexts, and impacts

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Engage in wellness activities incorporating physical activity and mental health
  2. Reflect on their own health behaviors and develop a strategy for applying healthy behaviors across their lifespan
  3.  Place defined aspects of wellness in the context of global and societal issues and concerns

Quantitative Reasoning Learning Outcomes

Courses designated as Quantitative Reasoning will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals in all specified ways enumerated below.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1.  Explain information presented in mathematical forms (equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, and words).
  2.  Convert relevant information into various mathematical forms (equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, and words).
  3. Employ an effective format to present quantitative information and contextualized explanations.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Draw appropriate conclusions based on their calculations and analysis of quantitative data.

Integrative Content Level

Language, Culture, and Communication

All students must complete a foreign/modern language course at the 102-level (second semester elementary level) or demonstrate proficiency at or above the second semester elementary level (e.g., through an assessment process).

Entering students who have passed, with at least a C average, the equivalent of a fourth year level of a foreign/modern language are waived from MCLA's Language, Culture, and Communication Requirement.

Entering students who have not met the 4th year level of the same foreign/modern language, will take a Modern Language Placement Test and be placed accordingly. Alternatively, students could elect to begin study of a new language at the first-semester elementary level (101) and subsequently complete the second semester elementary level (102) course in the same language.

Courses designated as Language, Culture and Communication will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1. Negotiate understandings across linguistic and cultural differences, using insight into how language shapes and is shaped by cultural production, perspectives, and practices.
  2. Communicate effectively by applying verbal and non-verbal linguistic processes appropriately according to situation and context.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Draw comparisons with one's own linguistic and cultural processes to examine the nature of the intersection between language (other than English) and culture.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Analyze the diverse perspectives expressed through a language (other than English) and its culture(s) to enhance critical thinking and problem solving.

 Language, Culture and Communication Courses

ITAL 102Elementary Italian II3
MODL 102Special Topics in Modern Language3
MODL 110The Idea of Latin America3
SPAN 102Elementary Spanish II3
SPAN 202Intermediate Spanish II3
SPAN 203Spanish for Health Care Professionals3
SPAN 204Spanish for Social Care and Public Work3
SPAN 205Spanish for Business3

Creative Arts

Courses designated as Creative Arts will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1.  Articulate the significance of the creative arts, artistic expression and experience in today's world
  2. Describe techniques, processes and concepts that creative artists use in their work

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Discuss personal encounters with the creative arts within broader historical and cultural contexts

Creative Arts Courses 

AMGT 130Introduction to Arts Management3
ANTH 210Visual Anthropology3
ART 201Studio, Art and Society3
ARTH 117Prehistoric to Early Modern Art History3
ARTH 217Modern to Contemporary Art History3
CCCA 110Topics in Creative Arts3
CCCA 202The Good Earth: The Theme of Agrarianism3
CCCA 207Children's Literature: A Lively Art3
CCCA 210Writing Home3
ENGL 151Fundamentals of Literary Studies I: Reading and Imagination3
ENGL 151HHonors: Fundamentals of Literary Studies I: Reading and Imagination3
ENGL 153Introduction to Visual Culture3
ENGL 153HHonors: Introduction to Visual Culture3
ENGL 202Writing Identities3
ENGL 208Experiments in Creative Writing3
ENGL 210Essentials of Film3
ENGL 270Literary Genre3
MUSI 100Introduction to Music3
MUSI 175Home Studio Recording3
MUSI 253World Music3
PHIL 120Art and Philosophy3
PHIL 120HHonors: Art and Philosophy3
THEA 120Acting, Culture, and the Creative Self3
THEA 130Theatre, Society, and Transformational Justice3

Human Heritage

Courses designated as Human Heritage will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Conduct research using both primary and secondary sources
  2. Apply critical approaches to source material
  3. Apply comparative approaches to source material
  4. Draw valid conclusions from documentary evidence from a specific historical frame and evaluate the significance of such conclusions.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Evaluate the significance of historical events, ideas, or circumstances within their own and contemporary contexts

Human Heritage Courses 

CCHH 110Topics in Human Heritage3
CCHH 201The Bible as Literature3
CCHH 223The Great Depression3
CCHH 230Introduction to Latinx Studies3
HIST 104Modern World Civilization3
HIST 113United States History to 18773
HIST 114United States History after 18773
HIST 125World Regional Geography3
HIST 125HHonors: World Regional Geography3
HIST 220Reformers, Rebels, Revolutionaries in East Asia3
HIST 230War, Science, and Society3
HIST 240Reacting to the Past3
HIST 250Museums, Monuments & Memory3
HIST 260Superheroes and American Society3
HONR 100The Nature of Human Nature3
IDST 150Introduction to Cross-Cultural & Social Justice Studies3
IDST 150HHonors: Introduction to Cross-Cultural and Social Justice3
IDST 205Youth Social Movements3
IDST 252Introduction to Critical Ethnic Studies3
IDST 252HHonors: Introduction to Critical Ethnic Studies3
PHIL 100Introduction to Philosophy3
PHIL 200Logic and Critical Reasoning3
PHIL 200HHonors: Logic and Critical Reasoning3
SOCI 210Families3

Self and Society

Courses designated as Self & Society will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1. Communicate ideas using a format and language inclusive of multiple audiences and perspectives

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Demonstrate understanding of the complexity of elements important to identity in relation to culture, history, values, politics, communication styles, economy, beliefs, or practices.
  2. Analyze significant social issues using multiple perspectives, theories, and methods.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Critically reflect on and explain their own values, beliefs, and experiences as they relate to the topic of the course.

Self and Society Courses 

ANTH 130Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology3
ANTH 130HHonors: Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology3
ANTH 240Peoples of the World3
BADM 100Explorations in Business3
BADM 101Adulting 101: Managing Life and Money3
CCSS 110Topics in Self and Society3
CCSS 260Schools, the Law and Society3
CCSS 269Education and Society3
COMM 204Media Self-Identity & Society3
ECON 100Introduction to Economics3
ECON 241Macroeconomics3
ENGL 216Coming of Age in Literature and Film3
HLTH 150Introduction to Public and Community Health3
HLTH 150HHonors: Introduction to Public and Community Health3
HLTH 200Health Promotion and Planning3
HLTH 200HHonors: Health Promotion and Planning3
HLTH 210Human Growth and Development3
HLTH 210HHonors: Human Growth and Development3
IDST 250Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies3
IDST 251Introduction to Urban Studies3
IDST 251HHonors: Introduction to Urban Studies3
PHCH 150Introduction to Public and Community Health3
PHCH 150HHonors: Introduction to Public and Community Health3
PHCH 200Health Promotion and Planning3
PHCH 200HHonors: Health Promotion and Planning3
POSC 201United States Government3
POSC 202Comparative Government3
PSYC 100Introduction to Psychology3
PSYC 230Social Psychology3
SOCI 100Introduction to Sociology3
SOCI 201Social Problems3
SOCI 201HHonors: Social Problems3
SOWK 100Introduction to Social Work3
WGSS 201Introduction to Women Gender and Sexuality Studies3

Science and Technology

Courses designated as Science and Technology will meet one or more of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted below.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1. Communicate scientific findings and their importance to a variety of audiences.
  2. Interpret and generate graphs from scientific data.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1.  Apply scientific practices and technology to test a hypothesis, answer a question, or solve problems.
  2. Apply knowledge of natural science content to broader frameworks

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Evaluate the reliability of the sources of scientific media in making informed decisions.

 Science and Technology Courses

BIOL 100Concepts in Biology4
BIOL 102Nutrition for Healthy Living with Lab4
BIOL 103Nutrition for Healthy Living3
BIOL 104Evolution of Sex3
BIOL 105Human Biology3
BIOL 150Introduction to Biology I: Cells4
CCST 101Topics in Physical Science3
CCST 102A Case Study Approach to Science3
CCST 106The Physics of Superheroes3
CCST 107Forensic Science4
CCST 110Topics in Physical Science with Laboratory4
CCST 111Topics in Life Science3
CCST 112Topics in Life Science with Lab4
CCST 230Energy and the Environment4
CHEM 150Introduction to Chemistry I4
CHEM 152Introduction to Chemistry II4
CSCI 120Programming in Python3
ENVI 150Introduction to Environmental Systems4
ENVI 150HHonors: Introduction to Environmental Systems4
ENVI 225Nature of New England4
ENVI 226Nature of New England3
ERTH 152Introduction to Physical Geology4
PHYS 120Introduction to Engineering4
PHYS 131General Physics I4
PHYS 132General Physics II4
PHYS 140Astronomy3
PHYS 151Introduction to Mechanics4

First Year Seminar

First Year Seminar (FSEM) courses will consist of Creative Arts, Human Heritage, Self & Society, Science and Technology, or Language, Culture, and Communication courses. Sections taught as FSEM will carry the special designation on the schedule.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Reflect on the connections between their curricular, co-curricular, and event-based learning.
  2. Demonstrate proficiency in college-level academic skills.
  3. Develop knowledge of campus learning and support resources.
  4. Engage in extracurricular community-building activities with their peers and professor.
  5. Demonstrate proficiency in life-management skills.
  6. Reflect on the ways that their life experiences and identities shape their academic experiences.

NOTE:  Students with a minimum of 12 credits of earned transfer coursework will not be required to complete the FSEM Core Curriculum Requirement. The 12 credits must be transfer college courses and cannot include: Advanced Placement, CLEP, International Baccalaureate, early enrollment, dual enrollment, or similar coursework. The 12 credit minimum aligns with Admissions definition of a transfer student. 

Integrative Capstone Seminar

Courses designated as Capstone will meet all of the overall Integrative Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcome Goals as noted in all specified ways enumerated below.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are effective communicators who utilize multiple forms of expression to participate in our global community.

  1. Communicate effectively in different contexts, making clear the interdependence of language, thought, and expression.
  2. Locate and use high quality, credible, relevant sources from diverse perspectives to appropriately defend positions.

Goal: MCLA’S graduates engage in analytical inquiry to address complex problems.

  1. Synthesize information to construct a clear and insightful problem statement.
  2. Apply the most appropriate approach(es) to solve problems.
  3. Draw conclusions by combining examples, facts, or theories from more than one field of study or perspective.

Goal: MCLA’s graduates are active, engaged, and ethical individuals.

  1. Make explicit connections to previous learning and apply their knowledge and skills to demonstrate comprehension and performance in novel situations.
  2. Reflect on their contributions to their communities.
  3. Reflect on the complexity of their own and others' identities in relation to the course topic or problem.

Integrative Capstone Courses 

CCAP 300Capstone Seminar:3
CCAP 301The Creative Economy of the Berkshires3
CCAP 302Communicating Across Cultures3
CCAP 303Economics of Poverty and Discrimination3
CCAP 304Changing North American Landscapes3
CCAP 305Representations of Nature3
CCAP 306Writing Lives3
CCAP 307HSex & Violence3
CCAP 308Cantatas and Coffee3
CCAP 309Feminism and Theatre3
CCAP 310Ethical Issues in Healthcare3
CCAP 311Indian Cinema3
CCAP 312Practicing Justice3
COMM 302Communicating Across Cultures3
HLTH 300Ethical Issues in Health Care3
THEA 309Feminism and Theatre3

Quantitative Reasoning

MATH 102 Mathematics for Liberal Arts3 cr
Reviews fundamental concepts of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Surveys basic statistics and financial mathematics. Students will practice computational skills and information literacy for discerning truth and problem solving.
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA)  
MATH 150 Precalculus3 cr
Introduces topics necessary for the study of calculus. A detailed study of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, and their applications to modeling real world problems. Topics are considered from analytical, graphical and numerical points of view.
Prerequisite: Placement based on SAT scores and high school background  
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA)  
MATH 220 Calculus I3 cr
Examines limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of elementary functions, applications of the derivative and an introduction to the antiderivative. The first of a four-part sequence.
Prerequisite: MATH 150, placement based on SAT scores, high school background or department approval  
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA)  
MATH 232 Introduction to Statistics3 cr
Examines descriptive statistics, probability, discrete and continuous random variables, sampling theory, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing from inferential statistics. Includes the binomial distribution, normal distribution, and t-distribution.
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA)  
MATH 232E Introduction to Statistics - Enhanced4 cr
Examines descriptive statistics, probability, discrete and continuous random variables, sampling theory, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing from inferential statistics. Includes the binomial distribution, normal distribution, and t-distribution. The enhanced 4-credit version of MATH 232 will provide students extra time and instructor guidance. This additional time will include reviewing relevant pre-requisite material and working on practice problems together with the instructor.
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA)  
MATH 232H Honors: Introduction to Statistics3 cr
Examines descriptive statistics, probability, discrete and continuous random variables, sampling theory, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing from inferential statistics. Includes the binomial distribution, normal distribution, and t-distribution.
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA), Honors Program (HONR)  
MATH 270 Statistics and Data Analysis4 cr
Examines descriptive statistics, probability, discrete and continuous random variables, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, regression and correlation. Includes normal distribution, t-distribution, chi square distribution. Required computer programming laboratory.
Corequisite: MATH 270L  
Attributes: Quantitative Reasoning (CMA)  

Critical Reading, Thinking, Writing

ENGL 150 College Writing3 cr
Emphasizes college-level writing, reading, research and revision practices necessary for 21st century academic and civic engagement. Teaches students to use a variety of genres, rhetorical techniques, and sources of evidence to reach academic and civic audiences.
Attributes: Critical Reading, Thinking, Writing (CWR)  
ENGL 150E College Writing-Enhanced4 cr
Emphasizes college-level writing, reading, research and revision practices necessary for 21st century academic and civic engagement. Teaches students to use a variety of genres, rhetorical techniques, and sources of evidence to reach academic and civic audiences. The enhanced 4-credit version of ENGL 150 will provide students extra time and instructor guidance in critical reading, writing, revising and editing.
Attributes: Critical Reading, Thinking, Writing (CWR)  

Health and Wellness

CCHW 110 Topics in Health and Wellness3 cr
Examines fundamental topics in health and wellness. Students will learn how their behavior choices contribute to wellness, critically evaluate their own wellness practices, and develop strategies for healthy behaviors. Students will engage in wellness activities that incorporate exercise and mental health, and define wellness in the context of global and societal issues.
Attributes: Core Health and Wellness (CHW)  
HLTH 115 Science of Human Wellness3 cr
Engages students with current ideas for maximizing human health, with an emphasis on separating pseudoscience from evidence-based practices. Questions addressed include: Is there an "optimal" diet? How much physical activity do humans need, and of what type? How is our modern lifestyle impacting our psychological and physical health? Students will apply these concepts towards their own physical and mental well-being. Students will engage in wellness activities incorporating physical activity and mental health.
Attributes: Core Health and Wellness (CHW)  
HLTH 201 Exercise Science3 cr
Facilitates an understanding of exercise based on the principles related to training basics, energy systems, muscular fitness and biomechanics. Students will learn to develop training programs for better physical performance and health.
Attributes: Core Health and Wellness (CHW)  
PHED 215 Lifetime Wellness3 cr
Helps students develop a set of health behaviors that constitute what is generally considered to be a high energy lifestyle. These behaviors stress responsibility for one's health. Areas covered are physical fitness, nutrition and weight control, stress management, substance abuse, sexually transmitted disease and chronic disease.
Attributes: Core Health and Wellness (CHW)  

Creative Arts

AMGT 130 Introduction to Arts Management3 cr
Introduces the historical development of arts management through a survey of patronage, artist/manager, nonprofit and commercial management systems. Lectures and readings will concentrate on the major areas of interest for marketing and fiscal management of individual and collective artists.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ANTH 210 Visual Anthropology3 cr
Draws upon themes in visual anthropology and visual studies to study the nature of images. Examines how images are produced and circulated, how they acquire distinct meanings within different cultures, and how they relate to human experience, affects, culture, and violence.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA), Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ)  
ART 201 Studio, Art and Society3 cr
Through experiential activities that may include field trips to art and cultural institutions, explores image making and writing to express original ideas and develop critical thinking and observational skills when analyzing art and objects. Intended for non-art majors.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ARTH 117 Prehistoric to Early Modern Art History3 cr
Introduces art and architecture from prehistory to the early modern period through a global perspective. Examines influential works and artists within their historical, social, and political contexts while tracing principal art movements.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ARTH 217 Modern to Contemporary Art History3 cr
Introduces global modern and contemporary art. Presents influential artists in cultural, historical, and political contexts from the 19th century to the present. Topics may include the changing nature of the avant-garde, new forms and theories of artmaking, and the expanding conceptions of creative expression in relationship to contemporary issues.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
CCCA 110 Topics in Creative Arts3 cr
Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to the creative arts. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CCCA 202 The Good Earth: The Theme of Agrarianism3 cr
Studies agrarian themes and their importance by surveying literature, music, paintings, and photography. Focuses on artistic perceptions of the earth and human relationships to it. Explores agrarian traditions, values and beliefs. Includes a study of agrarian social, political and economic issues.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
CCCA 207 Children's Literature: A Lively Art3 cr
Develops a critical understanding of the verbal and visual art of children's literature. Reflects major stories of world art and literature through two centuries of English language publications. Includes novels, short stories (including folk tales) and picture books. Readings will be placed in historical, cultural and literary contexts, with emphasis on techniques of writing and publishing, as well as pedagogical philosophies.
Attributes: Child & Family Studies Minor (C&FS), Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
CCCA 210 Writing Home3 cr
Explores the concept of "home" both locally and globally by analyzing how diverse writers and creators use language, image, and form to construct space, place and cultural identity. Drawing from this critical exploration, students will create texts of their own that employ the creative and analytical skills they've learned. Through the process of "writing home" and sharing their lived experiences with peers, students will begin to create a sense of "home" at MCLA.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ENGL 151 Fundamentals of Literary Studies I: Reading and Imagination3 cr
Introduces students to the imaginative potentials of reading as a practice that transforms our understanding of the world. Students will learn the fundamental skills associated with the study of literature across multiple genres and from various cultural traditions, with attention paid to how the close reading of a text informs the creative act of interpretation.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ENGL 151H Honors: Fundamentals of Literary Studies I: Reading and Imagination3 cr
Introduces students to the imaginative potentials of reading as a practice that transforms our understanding of the world. Students will learn the fundamental skills associated with the study of literature across multiple genres and from various cultural traditions, with attention paid to how the close reading of a text informs the creative act of interpretation.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA), Honors Program (HONR)  
ENGL 153 Introduction to Visual Culture3 cr
Explores how our encounters with images profoundly impact our experiences of the world. Through an examination of diverse modes of visual expression, this course introduces students to key concepts of visual culture, including the social dynamics of representation, power structures of looking, and phenomena of spectacle.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ENGL 153H Honors: Introduction to Visual Culture3 cr
Explores how our encounters with images profoundly impact our experiences of the world. Through an examination of diverse modes of visual expression, this course introduces students to key concepts of visual culture, including the social dynamics of representation, power structures of looking, and phenomena of spectacle.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA), Honors Program (HONR)  
ENGL 202 Writing Identities3 cr
Explores in theory and practice how writers critically and creatively illuminate questions of identity and power through the lens of personal experience. By engaging with personal essays written by a diversity of authors, students will discover voices they've never encountered, or that they never knew they had, opening up space for rhetorical engagement across difference. Students will leave the course with a critical understanding of who they are as writers and audience members.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
ENGL 208 Experiments in Creative Writing3 cr
Introduces students to a range of creative writing techniques and practices inspired by various literary movements and contemporary writers from a wide array of cultural backgrounds. Working across multiple genres (fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry) our goal is not to perfect stable pieces but to expand the possibilities for writing, by experimenting with formal conditions, styles and language games.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ENGL 210 Essentials of Film3 cr
Focuses on film interpretation by emphasizing elements such as light, sound, composition, camera movement, acting, and direction. Initiates students into developments in film history, film genre and film theory.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
ENGL 270 Literary Genre3 cr
Examines the question of how an author's choice of a single literary mode, genre, or type affects the meanings of a text. May focus on plays, short stories, song lyrics, comedy, romance, novels, myths, or other genres. The specific genre to be examined will vary and will be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
MUSI 100 Introduction to Music3 cr
Provides a general historical survey of music and introduces basic music vocabulary. The objective of the course is to help students become conversant in the styles and genres of music.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
MUSI 175 Home Studio Recording3 cr
Introduces basic concepts of recording, mixing and editing music on a macbook. Course material includes microphone placement, recording, mixing and basic composition.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
MUSI 253 World Music3 cr
Compares world music and the study of music in the context of culture. Introduces students to the field of ethnomusicology and explores the folk and classical music of Asia, the Balkans, the Americans, and the wealth of ethnic culture in the North Adams area.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
PHIL 120 Art and Philosophy3 cr
Adopts a philosophical approach to the experience, understanding and critical assessment of the products and processes of the creative arts. Our inquiries will center on two traditional questions of aesthetic theory: What is art? What is art's special value? This course will be more theoretical than hands-on, though direct, continued experience in the various creative arts will be encouraged and figure prominently in most discussions and assignments.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
PHIL 120H Honors: Art and Philosophy3 cr
Adopts a philosophical approach to the experience, understanding and critical assessment of the products and processes of the creative arts. Our inquiries will center on two traditional questions of aesthetic theory. What is art? What is art's special value? This course will be more theoretical than hands-on, though direct, continued experience in the various creative arts will be encouraged and figure prominently in most discussions and assignments.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA), Honors Program (HONR)  
THEA 120 Acting, Culture, and the Creative Self3 cr
Explores the dynamic intersection of acting, culture, and personal creativity, examining how socio-cultural perspectives shape the craft. Covers key pioneering acting practitioners from around the globe. Develops creativity, self-expression, and confidence speaking publicly, while investigating a diverse range of acting techniques and traditions. Includes hands on exploration of the ways actors evolve their creative practice. Ideal for anyone eager to discover the art of acting.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  
THEA 130 Theatre, Society, and Transformational Justice3 cr
Explores how theatre has been organized and performed in the context of various social movements in order to learn more about theatre's participation in transformational justice. Studies both play texts and the artists who do the work, examining how theatre and social forces influence each other. Includes readings, class discussions, written responses, and group presentations, as well as the viewing of live theatre.
Attributes: Core Creative Arts (CCA)  

Human Heritage

CCHH 110 Topics in Human Heritage3 cr
Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to humanity's shared heritage. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CCHH 201 The Bible as Literature3 cr
Examines selected biblical texts as pieces of literature. Includes traditional literary analysis of form, style, and structure, in addition to historical, political, and theoretical analysis of this multi-authored and chronologically divergent text.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
CCHH 223 The Great Depression3 cr
Examines the historical, sociological, philosophical, literary and other aspects of the great American depression of the 1930s. Examines the cause and effect of change and persistence during a time of national crisis. Readings are first-hand accounts, documentaries, narratives and explanatory fiction.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
CCHH 230 Introduction to Latinx Studies3 cr
Examines the United States, and the histories, cultures, and experiences of Americans of Latin American ancestry. Latinx studies is an interdisciplinary academic field that explores the politics, health, representation, and practices of people from Latin American and Caribbean heritage living in the United States. Latinx studies offers a lens through which we can better understand connections between diverse Latinx groups as well as the differences that may come between them.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Human Heritage (CHH), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
HIST 104 Modern World Civilization3 cr
Provides an introductory historical survey of the major events, ideas and people which have shaped world civilizations since 1500, the beginning of the modern era of history. Takes a comparative, interdisciplinary, and non-Eurocentric approach to historical analysis emphasizing diversity and global awareness.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 113 United States History to 18773 cr
Focuses on the development of American political, economic, social, philosophical, and cultural values and institutions from Colonial beginnings up to 1877. Sufficient emphasis will be placed on the Massachusetts and Federal Constitutions to meet the state requirement.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 114 United States History after 18773 cr
Focuses on the development of American political, economic, social, philosophical, and cultural values and institutions from 1877 to the present. Sufficient emphasis will be placed on the Massachusetts and Federal Constitutions to meet the state requirement.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 125 World Regional Geography3 cr
Introduces theories, terms and past and contemporary topics in human geography, including how cultures are born and change, how groups of people organize themselves and their activities both spatially and politically, how patterns of activities emerge and change across time and space, and how we interact with our environments. Students in this course will explore demographic, economic, and social trends and issues across the globe in their geographic and historical context.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 125H Honors: World Regional Geography3 cr
Introduces theories, terms and past and contemporary topics in human geography, including how cultures are born and change, how groups of people organize themselves and their activities both spatially and politically, how patterns of activities emerge and change across time and space, and how we interact with our environments. Students in this course will explore demographic, economic, and social trends and issues across the globe in their geographic and historical context.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH), Honors Program (HONR)  
HIST 220 Reformers, Rebels, Revolutionaries in East Asia3 cr
Using a "lives and times" approach, this course will introduce to students some men and women whose lives reflect major social, cultural, political and economic developments in the modern history of East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam). These individuals were uniquely positioned to influence history when their society experienced profound transition and transformation through imperialism, industrialization, wars, and social conflicts.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 230 War, Science, and Society3 cr
Using a variety of case studies from European and world history, this course concentrates on increasing students' understanding of how conflict and scientific innovation have combined to change societies. Students will research and analyze a broad range of source materials to develop their ability to construct arguments and interpretations and express them logically and persuasively in speech and writing. Possible topics include atomic energy, medicine, transportation, and weaponry.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 240 Reacting to the Past3 cr
Explores selected periods in American history using elaborate, role playing historical games based in the American past. This course seeks to draw students into engaging the past, developing their understanding and analysis of historical sources, and improving skills in speaking, writing, and leadership. The games covered in the course will vary from semester to semester.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 250 Museums, Monuments & Memory3 cr
Explores the ways that we remember the past. Students will engage with artifacts, museums, public symbols like monuments, and events meaningful to their own histories. They will work with local organizations to learn new methods of preserving history and presenting it to public audiences. Using a variety of case studies, this collaborative course will confront debates about the politics of history and explore how diverse audiences interact with history and historical memory.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HIST 260 Superheroes and American Society3 cr
Explores the history of superheroes and how comic books have helped to reflect and shape American society and popular culture since the 1930s. This course draws on the vast collection of comic book superheroes from Marvel Comics as well as readings from scholarly articles, books, and other resources.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
HONR 100 The Nature of Human Nature3 cr
Explores the problematic notion of human nature employing the open-ended question-asking and interdisciplinary discussion which characterizes the Honors Program. The course ranges widely over philosophical, psychological, literary and anthropological texts, as well as works of art, which propose competing definitions for human nature. Students are asked first to understand and then to criticize each perspective in turn and finally to formulate their own understanding of human nature.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH), Honors Program (HONR)  
IDST 150 Introduction to Cross-Cultural & Social Justice Studies3 cr
Opens up a perspective on culture diversity in local and global contexts. Takes an interdisciplinary approach to consider how historically shaped intersections of race, class, gender, and ethnicity inform the contemporary and past experiences of individuals and groups in society. Considers social justice and (in)equality by studying themes such as racism; classism; migration; globalization and labor rights; human trafficking; Islamophobia; and environmental justice.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
IDST 150H Honors: Introduction to Cross-Cultural and Social Justice3 cr
Opens up a perspective on cultural diversity in local and global contexts. Takes an interdisciplinary approach to consider how historically shaped intersections of race, class, gender, and ethnicity inform the contemporary and post experiences of individuals and groups in society. Considers social justice and (in)equality by studying themes such as racism; classism; migration; globalization and labor rights; human trafficking; Islamophobia; and environmental justice.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH), Honors Program (HONR)  
IDST 205 Youth Social Movements3 cr
Studies youth-lead social movements from around the world as we develop essential skills for college success. Discusses social movements and social justice as well as examples of social movements like Black Lives Matter; H.I.J.O.s, UndocuQueer, 1960's Civil Rights movements and organizing on college campuses more generally. Topics that are difficult to talk about, like race, class, gender, sexuality, racism, and systemic injustice will be discussed.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
IDST 252 Introduction to Critical Ethnic Studies3 cr
Applies interdisciplinary critical race and ethnic studies approaches to investigate how society is culturally and institutionally constituted by ideas like race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and nation.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
IDST 252H Honors: Introduction to Critical Ethnic Studies3 cr
Applies interdisciplinary critical race and ethnic studies approaches to investigate how society is culturally and institutionally constituted by ideas like race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and nation.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH), Honors Program (HONR)  
PHIL 100 Introduction to Philosophy3 cr
Immerses students in a detailed exploration of philosophy, undertaking a thorough examination of its fundamental tenets and concerns, including: the intricacies of freedom and justice; the demands and nature of morality; theories of reality and knowledge; questions surrounding religious belief, life's meaning, and the significance of mortality; the nature of aesthetic value; and the balance between individual rights and societal justice viewed through a comprehensive intercultural perspective. It accentuates the relevance of philosophy to contemporary world issues and obliges students to dissect, elucidate, and participate in rigorous philosophical conversation.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
PHIL 200 Logic and Critical Reasoning3 cr
Examines and applies the principles of cogent, sound or critical reasoning and writing, leading to a deeper understanding of language and of the use of logical argumentation. Considers, in the context of real life arguments and claims, (in the rhetoric of philosophy, history and other disciplines) formal and informal principles of clear and systematic thinking and writing.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH)  
PHIL 200H Honors: Logic and Critical Reasoning3 cr
Examines and applies principles of cogent, sound or critical reasoning and writing, leading to a deeper understanding of language and of the use of logical argumentation. Considers, in the context of real-life arguments and claims (in the rhetoric of philosophy, history, and other disciplines) formal and informal principles of clear and systematic thinking and writing.
Attributes: Core Human Heritage (CHH), Honors Program (HONR)  
SOCI 210 Families3 cr
Explores contemporary American families (the forms they take, the functions they serve, the problems they face) within the context of families of other historical time periods, and other cultures. Presents an interdisciplinary examination of topics such as: gender roles, marriage, divorce and blended families, nonmarital lifestyles, parenting, family policy and technology's impact on family life.
Attributes: Child & Family Studies Minor (C&FS), Core Human Heritage (CHH), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  

Language, Culture, and Communication

ITAL 102 Elementary Italian II3 cr
This course is a continuation of Italian 101. Speaking, listening, reading and writing skills are emphasized. Conducted in Italian.
Prerequisite: ITAL 101  
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
MODL 102 Special Topics in Modern Language3 cr
Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to language and culture. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
MODL 110 The Idea of Latin America3 cr
Examines Latin America's diverse culture, linguistic and ethnic/racial makeups resulting from political, economic, social, and cultural tensions. Students will look at instances of self-representation through a wide range of cultural products such as political manifests, literature, visual arts, ritual performance, and digital media. Examines how Latin American culture heterogeneity and its various expressions re-articulate the "idea" of Latin America.
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
SPAN 102 Elementary Spanish II3 cr
Reviews first-semester Spanish and continues the comprehension and oral communication begun in Spanish 101. Intended for those who have already experienced a basic Spanish course. Conducted in Spanish.
Prerequisite: SPAN 101  
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
SPAN 202 Intermediate Spanish II3 cr
Through the reading of varied texts of wide appeal and interest, students become acquainted with the literature and life experiences of Spanish-speaking peoples. Exploring such elements as the literary content, themes, figures of speech and tone of a text, students are assigned written work of a descriptive or interpretive nature based on such textual aspects of the works studied and discussed. Conducted in Spanish.
Prerequisite: SPAN 201  
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
SPAN 203 Spanish for Health Care Professionals3 cr
Designed for students seeking to work in the health professions. Students will learn the basic tools to communicate in Spanish in a medical setting. Through communicative practice, students will learn how to ask about pain, symptoms, medical histories, insurance, and patients' feelings. In addition, this course will help students to gain oral fluency and listening comprehension and also awareness about Spanish-speaking people's cultural perspectives around issues of health and illness.
Prerequisite: SPAN 101  
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
SPAN 204 Spanish for Social Care and Public Work3 cr
Provides essential Spanish language skills to facilitate communication with Spanish-speaking clients and communities, focusing on social care contexts such as housing, child welfare, health services, public schools, and public assistance. Students will explore cultural dynamics and social justice issues affecting Latinx communities in the U.S. and Latin America.
Prerequisite: SPAN 102  
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  
SPAN 205 Spanish for Business3 cr
Introduces students to Spanish language skills and cultural practices used in business contexts. It focuses on developing communicative abilities for professional settings, including key business vocabulary, formal writing, and speaking. Students will practice negotiating, presenting, and handling professional correspondence in Spanish. Cultural nuances, business etiquette, and business practices in Spanish-speaking countries will also be explored.
Prerequisite: SPAN 102  
Attributes: Language Arts (CLA)  

Self & Society

ANTH 130 Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology3 cr
Introduces students to the basic concepts, theories and methodologies of sociocultural anthropology. Creates an awareness of the wide spectrum of cultural variation throughout the world. Demonstrates that through the study of anthropology, we may not only gain an understanding of "exotic" cultures but also of our own sociocultural experience.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Self & Society (CSS)  
ANTH 130H Honors: Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology3 cr
Introduces students to the basic concepts, theories, and methodologies of sociocultural anthropology. Creates an awareness of the wide spectrum of cultural variation throughout the world. Demonstrates that through the study of anthropology, we may not only gain an understanding of "exotic" cultures, but also of our own sociocultural experience.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
ANTH 240 Peoples of the World3 cr
Exposes students to the concepts and methods of sociocultural anthropology through the examination of several cultural groups around the world. Delves into several important topics within anthropology such as economic systems, indigenous peoples, migration, and health. Introduces and practices basic anthropological methods.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Self & Society (CSS), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
BADM 100 Explorations in Business3 cr
Introduces students to the basic functions and terminology of business. Topics include management of human and financial resources, production and marketing of goods and services, and legal and ethical issues in decision-making. Provides students with basic competencies in business communications, creativity, and illustrates both successful/unsuccessful decision-making.
Prerequisite: Open to all except junior/senior Business Administration majors  
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
BADM 101 Adulting 101: Managing Life and Money3 cr
Develops students' understanding and skills around transitioning to college, money management, budgeting, realizing financial goals, credit, and financial vehicles. Students will also use a variety of tools and resources to better manage their time, adjust to being the primary decision-maker in their life, create a budget, manage their profile, evaluate college assistance packages, and comparing financial alternatives.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
CCSS 110 Topics in Self and Society3 cr
Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to society at large. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CCSS 260 Schools, the Law and Society3 cr
Enables students to explore legislation and judicial decisions affecting school policies. Covers separation of church and state, controversial curricula and rights and responsibilities of students and teachers. Compares America with other cultures regarding equal access to education.
Prerequisite: 100-level Self & Society course  
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
CCSS 269 Education and Society3 cr
Studies the role of education as an institution in our society, the world and their lives. Through the use of a wide variety of sources, students will become aware of the people and the historical events that played a role in the development of educational practices and issues, and will be able to compare the myths to the realities of this major institution.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
COMM 204 Media Self-Identity & Society3 cr
Introduces the concept of self-identity, examining it within the contexts of gender, sexuality, health, and ethnicity across media and society. Using interdisciplinary approaches, this cultural studies course focuses upon themes and theories that explore identity through analyzing meanings in media and social/cultural texts. It questions how these develop across history and questions identity in everyday common sense discourse and its relationships to media and society at local and global levels.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
ECON 100 Introduction to Economics3 cr
Provides an introduction to the principles and concepts of economics, with a focus on their applications in analyzing and solving social problems. Students will learn about microeconomics, macroeconomics, and key economic indicators. The course aims to equip students with the ability to apply economic principles to real-world issues.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
ECON 241 Macroeconomics3 cr
Examines the organization of American economic systems, with comparisons to those of other countries. Emphasis is on the problems of unemployment, inflation, budget deficits and the possible fiscal and monetary policies used to correct them. The course studies such aggregate economic variables as consumption, investment, government expenditures, and taxes.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
ENGL 216 Coming of Age in Literature and Film3 cr
Investigates the space between characters' identities through close work with film and literature by way of course discussions, group activities, and a range of writing projects. We will focus on texts from the 20th and 21st centuries across cultures to consider why the genre remains in such wide circulation in today's society.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
HLTH 150 Introduction to Public and Community Health3 cr
Explores two key questions: “What is the agenda of public health?” and “Is health a right or a privilege?” Through discussions and activities, students will examine the biological, political, and sociological factors shaping health in the U.S. The course emphasizes understanding public health as a system and its interdisciplinary links to other fields. Critical thinking and analysis of major public health issues will be a central focus throughout the semester.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
HLTH 150H Honors: Introduction to Public and Community Health3 cr
Explores two key questions: “What is the agenda of public health?” and “Is health a right or a privilege?” Through discussions and activities, students will examine the biological, political, and sociological factors shaping health in the U.S. The course emphasizes understanding public health as a system and its interdisciplinary links to other fields. Critical thinking and analysis of major public health issues will be a central focus throughout the semester.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
HLTH 200 Health Promotion and Planning3 cr
Introduces the principles of health promotion and strategies to improve individual and community well-being. Examine health determinants, behavior theories, program planning, and promotion through education and policy. Topics include nutrition, mental health, substance abuse, and chronic disease prevention. Focuses on building practical skills through discussions, case studies, and projects, applying health promotion strategies to diverse, real-world settings.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
HLTH 200H Honors: Health Promotion and Planning3 cr
Introduces the principles of health promotion and strategies to improve individual and community well-being. Examine health determinants, behavior theories, program planning, and promotion through education and policy. Topics include nutrition, mental health, substance abuse, and chronic disease prevention. Focuses on building practical skills through discussions, case studies, and projects, applying health promotion strategies to diverse, real-world settings.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
HLTH 210 Human Growth and Development3 cr
Explores the life cycle from conception to death. Biological, sociological and psychological perspectives will be examined and applied to everyday situations and social issues.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
HLTH 210H Honors: Human Growth and Development3 cr
Explores the life cycle from conception to death. Biological, sociological, and psychological perspectives will be examined and applied to everyday situations and social issues.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
IDST 250 Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies3 cr
Introduces students to the world of Interdisciplinary Studies. Draws on selected academic disciplines (such as sociology, history, political science, psychology, and cultural studies) to develop interdisciplinary frameworks applied to the study of complex issues in society that cannot be understood or solved through the lens of a single academic discipline. Course topic is identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
IDST 251 Introduction to Urban Studies3 cr
Traces cities back to their origins and ends with the present day where urbanization is happening faster than ever. Following a chronological order, we will examine how global forces and local communities are intimately connected. The course draws from various academic disciplines and introduces students to basic concepts such as density, zoning, gentrification, and urban renewal. The goal is to help students become informed thinkers critical or urban designs and suburban lifestyle.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
IDST 251H Honors: Introduction to Urban Studies3 cr
Traces cities back to their origins and ends with the present day where urbanization is happening faster than ever. Following a chronological order, we will examine how global forces and local communities are intimately connected. The course draws from various academic disciplines and introduces students to basic concepts such as density, zoning, gentrification, and urban renewal. The goal is to help students become informed thinkers critical of urban designs and suburban lifestyle.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
PHCH 150 Introduction to Public and Community Health3 cr
Explores two key questions: “What is the agenda of public health?” and “Is health a right or a privilege?” Through discussions and activities, students will examine the biological, political, and sociological factors shaping health in the U.S. The course emphasizes understanding public health as a system and its interdisciplinary links to other fields. Critical thinking and analysis of major public health issues will be a central focus throughout the semester.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Environmental Studies (ENVI), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
PHCH 150H Honors: Introduction to Public and Community Health3 cr
Explores two key questions: “What is the agenda of public health?” and “Is health a right or a privilege?” Through discussions and activities, students will examine the biological, political, and sociological factors shaping health in the U.S. The course emphasizes understanding public health as a system and its interdisciplinary links to other fields. Critical thinking and analysis of major public health issues will be a central focus throughout the semester.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Environmental Studies (ENVI), Honors Program (HONR), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
PHCH 200 Health Promotion and Planning3 cr
Introduces the principles of health promotion and strategies to improve individual and community well-being. Examine health determinants, behavior theories, program planning, and promotion through education and policy. Topics include nutrition, mental health, substance abuse, and chronic disease prevention. Focuses on building practical skills through discussions, case studies, and projects, applying health promotion strategies to diverse, real-world settings.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
PHCH 200H Honors: Health Promotion and Planning3 cr
Introduces the principles of health promotion and strategies to improve individual and community well-being. Examine health determinants, behavior theories, program planning, and promotion through education and policy. Topics include nutrition, mental health, substance abuse, and chronic disease prevention. Focuses on building practical skills through discussions, case studies, and projects, applying health promotion strategies to diverse, real-world settings.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
POSC 201 United States Government3 cr
Introduces the major institutions of national and state government and the discipline of political science. Through interdisciplinary study, students will develop an understanding of political behavior and the public policy processes in the United States.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
POSC 202 Comparative Government3 cr
Provides a comparative introduction to common political problems and the discipline of political science. Through an interdisciplinary study of various nation-states, students will develop an understanding of political behavior, political institutions, and public policy processes.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
PSYC 100 Introduction to Psychology3 cr
Introduces students to the science of psychology, presenting the basic principles of mental processes and behavior and the process of empirical investigation.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
PSYC 230 Social Psychology3 cr
Examines human social behavior emphasizing environmental and situational factors. Theoretical and applied issues are considered within selected topics. (Psychology majors cannot receive core Self & Society credit for PSYC 230).
Prerequisite: PSYC 100 or any Self and Society course  
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Leadership Minor (LDRS)  
SOCI 100 Introduction to Sociology3 cr
Introduces the history, major concepts, and methods of sociology. Examines elements of social organization, sociological analysis of groups and relationships between major institutions of society. Emphasizes the idea of the sociological imagination and its application to contemporary issues.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Self & Society (CSS)  
SOCI 201 Social Problems3 cr
Studies problems and disorganization in modern industrial society such as: poverty, racism, sexism, environmental pollution, militarism and family issues.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Self & Society (CSS)  
SOCI 201H Honors: Social Problems3 cr
Studies problems and disorganization in modern industrial society such as: poverty, racism, sexism, environmental pollution, militarism, and family issues.
Attributes: Cross-Cultural and Social Justice (CCSJ), Core Self & Society (CSS), Honors Program (HONR)  
SOWK 100 Introduction to Social Work3 cr
Provides an introduction to the discipline of social work, covering its history, ethics, and current fields of practice. Social work's ethical commitment to issues of privilege and oppression, diversity, and social justice play a central role in all course material. Emphasis is placed on the social systems and institutions through which social workers interact with individuals and communities as well as on how students' own identities and life experiences may impact such interactions.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS)  
WGSS 201 Introduction to Women Gender and Sexuality Studies3 cr
Explores the historical, social, political, economic, and cultural forces that inform sex, gender, and sexuality within the context of feminist movements. Students learn and engage with concepts and theoretical perspectives found in the field of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Understand the multiple matrices of power that shape the world and our lived experiences.
Attributes: Core Self & Society (CSS), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  

Science & Technology

BIOL 103 Nutrition for Healthy Living3 cr
Introduces the non-major to the importance of diet for present and future good health. Examines the importance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals, and their interactions. Explores topics such as label-reading, popular diets, dietary analysis, and other issues of current interest in the field of nutrition. Students may take either BIOL 102 (4 credit lab course) or BIOL 103 (3 credit non-lab course) but not both.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
BIOL 104 Evolution of Sex3 cr
Explores sex as a biological phenomenon, from understanding its role in propagation and evolution. Topics will include reproductive structures, mechanisms of sex, and the development of sexual traits, and behaviors. We discuss sex across the diversity of living organisms; from bacteria to fungi, plants, and animals; and touch on a variety of sexual paradigms.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
BIOL 105 Human Biology3 cr
Provides the non-major with the knowledge about the structure and function of the human body. Students will develop ability to critically evaluate a large number of issues in this field, as presented in scientific publications and the news media. Students will gain a foundation essential for making knowledgeable decisions regarding quality of life. Students will be encouraged to share experiences based on their own culture and gender.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
CCST 101 Topics in Physical Science3 cr
Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in physical science. Scientific reasoning, discovery, and invention provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CCST 102 A Case Study Approach to Science3 cr
Introduces students to the use of the scientific method in various scientific settings. Using the case study method, students will cover a diverse range of topics which may include such topics as: the effects of radiation on biological systems, cancer and waste water treatment.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
CCST 106 The Physics of Superheroes3 cr
Examines superheroes through the lens of modern physics. The student will use basic physics principles such as mechanics, energy, and quantum mechanics to model and explain the powers and events in literature, which consists of comic books, sci-fi novels, and fantasy novels. This course will develop problem solving skills that are useful in a variety of real world applications. This course assumes no previous knowledge of physics and will be useful for science and non-science majors alike.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
CCST 111 Topics in Life Science3 cr
Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in the life sciences. Scientific reasoning and discovery provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CSCI 120 Programming in Python3 cr
Introduces students to the Python programming language. This course is intended for students who have no experience in programming, but do show a passion for problem solving. Throughout the semester, problem solving skills will be stressed and applied to solving computing problems.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  
ENVI 226 Nature of New England3 cr
Surveys the nature of New England and focuses on the natural history and identification of representative vertebrate animals of the region. The first part of the course will introduce the physical setting of New England. Subsequently, it will cover various communities and ecosystems of the region, identify the distinguishing vegetation for selected ecosystems, describe the natural history of those ecosystems, and emphasize the identity, biology, and ecology of representative vertebrate animals.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
PHYS 140 Astronomy3 cr
Looks at historical and modern aspects of astronomy. Topics covered will include: the Earth-Moon system, our solar system, galaxies, the observable universe, as well as current research in astronomy, including quasars, pulsars, black holes, other planetary systems and the search for extraterrestrial life.
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/o lab (CST)  

Science & Technology with a Lab

BIOL 100 Concepts in Biology4 cr
Provides the non-major knowledge of basic biological concepts. Concepts in Biology deals with the development of concepts in the biological science of life. Among the areas to be studied are evolution, genetics, and developmental biology: all deal with the fundamental characteristic of life: its ability to replicate over time.
Corequisite: BIOL 100L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
BIOL 102 Nutrition for Healthy Living with Lab4 cr
Introduces the non-major to the importance of diet for present and future good health. Examines the importance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals, and their interactions. Explores topics such as label-reading, popular diets, dietary analysis, and other issues of current interest in the field of nutrition. Students may take either BIOL 102 (4 credit lab course) or BIOL 103 (3 credit non-lab course) but not both.
Corequisite: BIOL 102L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
BIOL 150 Introduction to Biology I: Cells4 cr
Introduces the student to cell biology, mitosis, meiosis, genetics, photosynthesis, respiration and cellular organisms. This course is designed for, but not limited to, students pursuing a major/minor in science.
Corequisite: BIOL 150L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
CCST 107 Forensic Science4 cr
Examines the principals and theories of forensic science and how they are used in the United States' judicial system. The course will explore how evidence is collected, stored and analyzed. The student will gain a basic understanding of the scientific and analytical theories of how evidence is evaluated and evidence is used in the courtroom. Explores how forensics was used in solving major cases and how forensics has impacted landmark Supreme Court rulings.
Corequisite: CCST 107L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
CCST 110 Topics in Physical Science with Laboratory4 cr
Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in physical science. Scientific reasoning, discovery, and invention provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Corequisite: CCST 110L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CCST 112 Topics in Life Science with Lab4 cr
Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in life science. Scientific reasoning, discovery, and invention provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.
Corequisite: CCST 112L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
Repeatable: Unlimited Credits  
CCST 230 Energy and the Environment4 cr
Looks at the impact of current energy usage on our environment from technical, social and political viewpoints. Investigates the present and projected usage of nonrenewable fuel sources and how modifications due to alternate energy techniques will affect current energy policy. Discusses possible large-scale alternate energy methods. Investigates the scientific aspects of such topics as global warming and ozone depletion.
Corequisite: CCST 230L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
CHEM 150 Introduction to Chemistry I4 cr
Studies chemical principles, theories, laws and their applications. Topics include electronic and nuclear behavior, periodicity, stoichiometry, structure and bonding. Teaches laboratory techniques through the performance of experiments related to the above topics.
Corequisite: CHEM 150L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
CHEM 152 Introduction to Chemistry II4 cr
Studies chemical principles, theories, laws and their applications. Topics include oxidation and reduction, kinetics, thermodynamics, equilibrium and descriptive inorganic chemistry. Teaches laboratory techniques through the performance of experiments related to the above topics.
Prerequisite: CHEM 150  
Corequisite: CHEM 152L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
ENVI 150 Introduction to Environmental Systems4 cr
Provides a foundation in the physical, chemical and biological principles of environmental science in order to explore Earth's terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric systems. Directly investigates freshwater and forest environments of the northeast in the context of the scientific method.
Corequisite: ENVI 150L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
ENVI 150H Honors: Introduction to Environmental Systems4 cr
Provides an interdisciplinary foundation in the physical, chemical and biological principles of environmental science in order to explore earth's terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric systems. Historical case studies illustrate political and ethical dimensions of environmental issues. Lab exercises familiarize you with the forest and freshwater environments of the northeast and how the scientific method is used to analyze and understand the relation between humans and the natural environment.
Corequisite: ENVI 150LH  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI), Honors Program (HONR)  
ENVI 225 Nature of New England4 cr
Surveys the nature of New England and focuses on the natural history and identification of representative vertebrate animals of the region. It will introduce the physical setting of New England, investigate various communities and ecosystems of the region, and discuss nature in winter and how animals cope with the extremes of winter. The class format includes lecture, student presentations, and class discussions of assigned readings. Required lab component that includes field based activities.
Corequisite: ENVI 225L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
ERTH 152 Introduction to Physical Geology4 cr
Studies the earth, including the origin and types of earth materials, volcanism and crystal deformation, external earth processes and development of landscapes, geological resources, and geological processes as natural hazards.
Corequisite: ERTH 152L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL), Environmental Studies (ENVI)  
PHYS 120 Introduction to Engineering4 cr
Introduces students to basic scientific methodology, current problems and fundamental principles of engineering design. Intended for nonscience majors and potential engineering students. Required laboratory introduces fundamental science and engineering principles through collaborative projects such as robotics.
Corequisite: PHYS 120L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
PHYS 131 General Physics I4 cr
This is the first of a two-semester sequence, designed primarily for students in the biological and health sciences and others who desire a rigorous but non-calculus-based course that presents a complete introduction to physics. Covers vectors, one and two dimensional motion, Newton's laws, and rotational motion, conservation of energy and momentum, gravitation, wave motion, sound, heat and thermodynamics.
Corequisite: PHYS 131L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
PHYS 132 General Physics II4 cr
This is the second of a two-semester sequence, designed primarily for students in the biological and health sciences and others who desire a rigorous but non-calculus-based course that presents a complete introduction to physics. Covers geometrical optics, electricity and magnetism, electronics, modern physics, relativity.
Prerequisite: PHYS 131  
Corequisite: PHYS 132L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  
PHYS 151 Introduction to Mechanics4 cr
First course in a three-course introductory physics sequence which utilizes a calculus-based approach to study the natural world. This course focuses on kinematics, dynamics, conservation of energy and momentum, and rotational motion.
Prerequisite: MATH 150 or MATH 220 or concurrent enrollment in MATH 220  
Corequisite: PHYS 151L  
Attributes: Core Science & Tech w/lab (CSTL)  

Capstone Experience

CCAP 300 Capstone Seminar:3 cr
Challenges students to integrate knowledge from several disciplines, applying academic learning and critical thinking skills to modern-day issues. Encourages students to work with others and become engaged citizens in the context of today's world.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 301 The Creative Economy of the Berkshires3 cr
Focuses on the development of a rural creative economy through an exploration of the history, economic development theory, city planning, government granting, and creative placemaking and the direct application of those efforts in North Adams, MA. Using the design thinking model, students will investigate the economic, political and cultural history of North Adams to generate a historical narrative of the progression from manufacturing center, to rustbelt community to an artist-belt center of activity. Students will conduct extensive research in the community exploring the history and current state of North Adams’ creative placemaking efforts and use their new understanding to develop, prototype and test ideas generated to further the community’s creative economic development.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 302 Communicating Across Cultures3 cr
Develop the skills to navigate and engage in effective intercultural communication in professional and personal contexts. Explores how cultural values, language, identity, and power shape interactions across diverse communities. Through case studies, discussions, and experiential activities, students will refine their ability to adapt, interpret, and respond to cultural differences, fostering global competence in an interconnected world.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 303 Economics of Poverty and Discrimination3 cr
Employs economic and social reasoning to investigate the causes of discrimination and poverty in the United States and to a lesser extent elsewhere in the world. Attempts to answer questions such as How is poverty defined? What are the dimensions of poverty? Why are some people poor and not others? Course material on discrimination focuses on the root causes of discrimination and evaluates the amount and extent of discrimination in the labor and housing markets.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 304 Changing North American Landscapes3 cr
Investigates the environmental history of North America with a focus on how landscapes, in both literal and figurative aspects, have changed. Uses topics (e.g. ice age, colonization, automobiles, mining, suburbanization, consumerism) or regions (e.g., Boston, Cape Cod, Florida), to investigate how humans have impacted and been impacted by the environment. Seminar-style class with discussion and student presentations.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 305 Representations of Nature3 cr
Considers various ways that nature has been represented over time, from prehistoric cave paintings to modern Hollywood films; analyzes and compares environmental representations to each other; examines the current scientific knowledge and environmental context related to particular representations of nature.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 306 Writing Lives3 cr
Explores how creators use language and image to write about their own lives and the lives of others. Students will engage with texts spanning multiple disciplines, from creative nonfiction to archival, ethnographic and oral history projects. From this knowledge and their Core experience, students will craft a life writing project for an audience of their choice. By composing and reflecting on this project, they will better understand how to make knowledge live in their lives.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 307H Sex & Violence3 cr
Invites students to identify a topic of their choice at the intersections of sex and violence, and spend the course engaged in an extensive process of research and writing on this topic, culminating in an article-length manuscript and presentation. Students will engage in a rigorous, iterative process of peer review. Readings will be advanced, technical, and often related to provocative topics. The course is designed to be preparatory for graduate study in the humanities and social sciences.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP), Honors Program (HONR), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
CCAP 308 Cantatas and Coffee3 cr
Focuses on communication, using music as a challenge to convey our thoughts, ideas, and beliefs more effectively. Looks at the cantatas as a model for perfection in musical art from the 18th century and how the music expresses balance, rhythmic patterns, emphasis on motives, unity, and variety, as well as principles of morality, ethics, spirituality, and meditation. Considers the history and socialization of coffee, including varieties, blends, brewing techniques, free trade use, and the effects of coffee in everyday consumption.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 309 Feminism and Theatre3 cr
Provides an in-depth study of theatrical works by women within the context of feminist theory. Examines how feminism has shaped theatre across time. Highlights identity and the situated nature of knowledge creation. Covers the lost theatrical traditions of women, challenges of representation, diverse feminisms, and intersectionality. Engages problems faced by women in theater and presents possibilities for dismantling patriarchal institutions and misogyny through feminist interventions in the field.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
CCAP 310 Ethical Issues in Healthcare3 cr
Examines the moral traditions and ethical principles relevant to life, and their application in present-day clinical care and biomedical research. Introduces students to the historical, theoretical, and thematic dimensions of health care ethics. Focuses on main ethical terms and concepts, as well as decision-making procedures that students can use to discern and defend moral courses of action in health care.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 311 Indian Cinema3 cr
Analyses popular Indian cinema through integrative frameworks of analysis to consider distinctive features of movies such as storylines, characters, cinematic techniques, the use of song & dance sequences to engage with themes that may include imaginations of the postcolonial nation-state, representations of changing gender roles, rising Hindu nationalism, migrants and the Indian Diaspora, audiences in India and abroad, Bollywood going global, and Indian cinema of the 21st century.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
CCAP 312 Practicing Justice3 cr
Facilitates students’ theoretical and experiential exploration of social justice as both a process and an outcome. Requires students to integrate concepts of oppression, liberation, and justice into the academic and professional fields of interest to them. Includes critical analyses of justice and injustice in students’ fields of study, as well as reflection on students’ identities and roles in combatting injustice.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)  
COMM 302 Communicating Across Cultures3 cr
Develop the skills to navigate and engage in effective intercultural communication in professional and personal contexts. Explores how cultural values, language, identity, and power shape interactions across diverse communities. Through case studies, discussions, and experiential activities, students will refine their ability to adapt, interpret, and respond to cultural differences, fostering global competence in an interconnected world.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
HLTH 300 Ethical Issues in Health Care3 cr
Examines the moral traditions and ethical principles relevant to life, and their application in present-day clinical care and biomedical research. Introduces students to the historical, theoretical, and thematic dimensions of health care ethics. Focuses on main ethical terms and concepts, as well as decision-making procedures that students can use to discern and defend moral courses of action in health care.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status  
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP)  
THEA 309 Feminism and Theatre3 cr
Provides an in-depth study of theatrical works by women within the context of feminist theory. Examines how feminism has shaped theatre across time. Highlights identity and the situated nature of knowledge creation. Covers the lost theatrical traditions of women, challenges of representation, diverse feminisms, and intersectionality. Engages problems faced by women in theater and presents possibilities for dismantling patriarchal institutions and misogyny through feminist interventions in the field.
Prerequisite: Completion of all Tier I and Tier II requirements, junior status   
Attributes: Capstone Experience Tier III (CAP), Women Gender Sexuality Studies (WMST)