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2012-2014 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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2012-2014 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

Core Curriculum Requirements
Please visit www.providence.edu/academic-affairs/core-curriculum/Pages/approved-core-curriculum-courses.aspx for a listing of courses that have been approved for specific Core Curriculum requirements (Class of 2016 and beyond). The list is updated on a regular basis. In addition, students in the Class of 2013, 2014, and 2015 can search the Course Catalog or Semester Course Offerings in CyberFriar to locate courses with a specific Core Curriculum attribute. Need assistance? Please contact Alyssa Marton at aneubeck@providence.edu or 401.865.1765.
 

Art
  

  • ART 355 - Ceramics V: Production

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Students will explore various production processes. Attention will be given to casting methods, hand building, and wheelwork. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 152.


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  • ART 370 - Special Topics in Studio Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    ART 270, 370, 470 are special topics courses on subjects of special interest offered students at different levels in various areas of studio art. This course requires six class hours per week.


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  • ART 374 - Photography IV

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An advanced color and black and white course. Students will continue perfecting their color skills, but will also be introduced to experimental color and black and white projects structured to expand photography beyond the continuous tone image. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 272 and 273.


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  • ART 375 - Photography V: The View Camera

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    (Required of all photography majors.) An introduction to large-format photography. The course is structured around the 4 x 5 view camera, with projects in portrait, still life, and architectural photography. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 272.


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  • ART 446 - Printmaking VI

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Advanced image making through an independent study program prearranged with the instructor. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 344 or 345.


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  • ART 470 - Special Topics in Studio Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    ART 270, 370, 470 are special topics courses on subjects of special interest offered students at different levels in various areas of studio art. This course requires six class hours per week.


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  • ART 478 - Photography VI

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Further work in black and white or color; this class will be based upon student needs. This course requires six class hours per week. Prerequisite: ART 374 or permission of the instructor.


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Art History
  

  • ARH 103 - Tribal and Village Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A survey of the arts of Africa, Oceania, North and South America, including works of the Eskimos, American Indians, and South Sea Islanders.


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  • ARH 106 - Art History Survey

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A survey of the visual arts in relation to political, religious, social, economic and aesthetic values from prehistoric times to the present, primarily focussed on the Western tradition.


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  • ARH 107 - The African-American Artist

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to African-American achievements in the visual arts, especially painting, from Colonial times to the present. Same as BLS 107.


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  • ARH 108 - History of Photography

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A history of the development of photography as a visual art form, from its invention in 1839 to the present. Same as AMS 108.


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  • ARH 109 - The History of Prints

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A history of the printmaking media from the invention of paper in second century, A.D., China to the printmaking renaissance of contemporary America. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 110 - Introduction to Museum Studies

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to the aims and methods of museums and curators with special emphasis upon study from original works, connoisseurship, and exposure to practical training. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 200 - Art of the Ancient Classical World (Crete, Greece, and Rome)

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to art from Cycladic figures in the Aegean to the Parthenon in Athens; from the frescoes of Pompeii to the fall of Rome. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 204 - Medieval Art and Architecture

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to Christian, Jewish, and Islamic art and architecture in Europe and Byzantium; from the fall of the Jerusalem Temple in the first century to the flourishing of Gothic cathedrals in the 14th century. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 205 - Italian Renaissance Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A sociocultural study of painting, sculpture, and architecture in Florence, Rome, and Venice from ca. 1300-1600, featuring the work of Giotto, Brunelleschi, Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 207 - American Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to American painting, sculpture, and architecture from Colonial times to the present. Same as AMS 207. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 209 - Modern Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to the various movements and trends in painting, architecture, and sculpture, from the end of the 19th century to the present. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 211 - The Arts of Southeast Asia

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A study of the varied artistic achievements of Southeast Asian countries from earliest times to the present. The arts of Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam will be examined in relation to their historical and cultural context.


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  • ARH 301 - Development of North American Architecture

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A study of North American architecture and the cultural context in which it was produced, from the 17th century to the present. Same as AMS 301. Prerequisite: ARH 106 or permission of the instructor.


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  • ARH 304 - American and European Art Since 1945

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This course will introduce major trends in Western, and especially American art post World War II. A variety of media will be addressed, including not only traditional visual arts, but a full range of new genres, as well. Social and cultural context for works of art and the shifts in style will be emphasized. Same as AMS 304. Prerequisite: ARH 106 or 209.


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  • ARH 306 - Baroque and Rococo Art

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A study of painting, sculpture, and architecture in the political, social, and religious context of 17th and 18th century Europe set in the context of patterns of patronage. Prerequisite: ARH 106 suggested.


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  • ARH 307 - From Abraham to Alexander: The Art and Archaeology of the Ancient Middle East

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Introduction to the art and archaeology of ancient Middle Eastern cultures that formed the milieu for the Old Testament Hebrews. Translated texts supplement the analysis of Mesopotamian and Egyptian artistic achievements. Students learn Egyptian and Mesopotamian art from 3500 B.C. to the advent of Christianity.


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  • ARH 310 - Directed Studio

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Intensive focus on an issue within a particular medium through examination of works of art, followed by group or individual fabrication of a relevant object. Prerequisite: ART 101, ART 102, ARH 106, or permission of the instructor.


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  • ARH 320 - Women in the Arts, 1960-Present

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This course examines the contributions of women to the arts through an analysis of prominent and influential works in the visual, performing, and literary arts. Each artist’s work is considered not only in and of itself, but also as representative of its media, and against a backdrop of historical, sociological, and political circumstances surrounding female achievement. Same as TDF 320 and WMS 320.


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  • ARH 380 - Interpretive Methods in Art History

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Introduces student to the variety of approaches to the interpretation of art, art history, and material culture. Required for all junior art history majors; open to other advanced students in related fields or with significant art historical background.


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  • ARH 444 - Sacred Space in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

    Students examine sacred spaces within Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, analyzing how architectural elements - boundary markers, altars, Torah shrines, mihrabs - generate categories of sacred/profane, pure/impure, inclusion/exclusion. Students employ interdisciplinary approaches from art history, anthropology, women’s studies, and religion, and encounter diverse communities in off-campus visits to churches, synagogues, and mosques. Open to juniors and seniors, or with permission of the instructor. 


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  • ARH 450 - Internship

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Offers advanced students academic credit for a supervised work and learning experience in an art-related organization. Students work with a faculty advisor and on-site supervisor to develop a series of structured assignments and prepare a final report. Interested students should contact the Art and Art History Department as early as possible. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and department chair, junior or senior status, and major in studio art or art history.


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  • ARH 490 - Independent Study

    1 semester, 1-3 Credits

    Open primarily to senior art history majors. In consultation with the faculty member, the student may propose to explore advanced topics in the field outside of the regular departmental offerings. The number of credits is determined by consultation with the faculty member responsible for the project and the chairperson.  Prerequisite: Permission of the chairperson.


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  • ARH 498 - Principles of Research

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Required of senior art history majors. In readings and seminar discussions, students learn bibliographical resources and utilize critical methodologies of the art historian in order to research and write a thesis.


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Asian Studies
  

  • AST 200 - Asian Perspectives

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Traditional and modern Asian cultures will be studied from various perspectives. A team-taught interdisciplinary course that surveys historical development, the arts, religion, economics, and politics of such countries as India, Tibet, China, Korea, Japan, and countries of Southeast Asia. Course helps students gain appreciation for the rich historical and cultural diversity of Asia and of its continuing importance in the world today.


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  • AST 480 - Asian Perspective Seminar

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Topics discussed vary each semester. Each interdisciplinary seminar examines one Asian country from various perspectives. An introduction to the early history of the culture in relation to its neighbors will serve as a background. Considers the arts, economics, history, philosophy, political science, and other social sciences, and studies how these disciplines have impacted the people of the country. Emphasis placed on contemporary culture, including the “diaspora.”


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Biology
  

  • BIO 103 - General Biology I

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Introductory course intended for science majors. Cell structure, function, and energetics are considered from the molecular and chemical viewpoints. The characteristics of the gene and reproduction are introduced as well as cell differentiation, pathogenesis, and growth. Laboratory work consists of manual and visual experience with selected areas of the topics listed. See   for specific policies related to the Natural Science Core requirement. Prerequisite: Chairperson permission required for non-science majors.


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  • BIO 104 - General Biology II

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Represents the second semester of the introductory biology course intended for science majors. Materials covered include the biology of populations and communities; including topics in evolution and their ecological interrelationships. Laboratory work consists of manual and visual experience with these topics. See   for specific policies related to the Natural Science Core requirement. Prerequisites: BIO 103; chairperson permission required for non-science majors.


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  • BIO 121 - Environmental Biology

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Information is necessary in order to understand and act upon problems associated with overpopulation, resource depletion, air and water pollution, acid rain, ozone depletion, desertification, or nuclear wastes. Aims to develop a perspective based on fundamental properties of mass and energy flow through ecosystems. Intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 122 - Human Biology

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Intended to present the principles of human biology designed to promote the understanding of the body. Subject matter will provide students with the ability to make informed decisions in their lives. The course will present cell theory, genetics, evolution, and human ecology. An analysis of the organ systems of the human body and their diseases are discussed. This course is intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 123 - Photobiology

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    There would be no life without light. Explores the dependence of organisms, from microbes to humans, on access to and utilization of sunlight as an energy source. Examines the ways organisms use and depend on light in processes such as photosynthesis, photoperiodicity, photomorphogenesis, vision, circadian rhythms, migration, and bioluminescence. The detrimental and beneficial effects of light on the ecosystem and in medicine are considered.


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  • BIO 124 - Ethnobotany, the Study of the Plants We Use

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This course will examine the intimate relationship between humans and plants. Students will explore the origin, history, and use of food plants, medicinal plants, and ornamental plants. These plants will be placed not only in a cultural context, but in a biological context as well. A component of this course is occasional field trips. This course is intended for non-science majors.


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  • BIO 125 - Microbes and Man

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This course considers the microbial world and its interaction with human life. Although the beneficial aspect of microbes is considered, the emphasis is on the role of microbes as causative agents of disease from a public health point of view. Topics include the biology of microbes, a survey of major microbial diseases, antibiotic resistance, biological warfare and terrorism, and immunization. This course is intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 126 - Evolution and Modern Biology

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An explanation of evolution at the non-technical level: DNA, proteins, gene mutation, variation, natural selection, and speciation. Digressions include viruses, cancer, genetic engineering, and topical issues. In the second half, macroevolutionary patterns from the history of life on Earth focus on human ancestry but with attention to diversity and extinction events in other kinds of organisms through time. This course is intended for non-science majors only.


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  • BIO 128 - Food Politics

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Food and political power have a long and interesting history. Currently, the West is enjoying a golden age of cheap food. How this cheap food came about, why the benefits of such a system are not more widely distributed, and why some are concerned about sustainability of these systems are the central topics. The main goal is to enhance science literacy by introducing the sustainability issues facing agriculture today in a historical framework. Discussion format with embedded lectures and activities.


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  • BIO 200 - Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This course provides an introduction to cell biology and molecular genetics and is intended for sophomore biology majors. The course focuses on four major areas: fine structure of cells, intra- and intercellular communication, energetics, and the molecular organization and transfer of genetic information. Experimental design, methodology, and current biotechnological applications will be considered. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 201 - Comparative Anatomy

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    A lecture and laboratory course emphasizing evolution of general body plan, adult anatomy, and organ system homology. Laboratory dissection includes cats, sharks, and others, plus demonstration specimens. Although premedical students often have an interest in the course, it is intended as a general gateway for all further studies of vertebrate biology without special emphasis on human anatomy or clinical application. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 205 - Human Anatomy

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Human organ systems from an integrated and functional perspective, especially for students preparing for non-medical school or allied health programs. The laboratory includes cat dissection and human anatomical models as well as latest software technology. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 209 - Introductory Botany

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    A survey of the structure, function, and evolutionary relationships of the major plant divisions. Three lectures and one laboratory (for which field trips may be substituted). Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 210 - Field Botany

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    A course involving the collection, identification, and ecological relationships of plants as observed in nature. One lecture and one six-hour field trip/week. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 215 - Histology and Cytology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Study of the micro anatomy of animal cells, tissues, and select organs/organ systems. The correlation between structure and function is an overriding theme; genetic, molecular, and developmental aspects of cells and tissues also will be addressed. Students will learn to recognize and identify cells, tissues, and organs, and will refine their light microscopy skills in the lab. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 220 - An Introduction to Tropical Biology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    This course familiarizes students with terrestrial and marine tropical biology. A nine-day trip to a tropical destination provides extensive field experience. The trip is a required component of the course. Students are charged room/board and airfare in addition to their tuition. Prerequisites: At least one semester of biology and permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 225 - Symbiosis

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This course examines a broad spectrum of symbiotic associations – types and characteristics of symbioses, their integrated and interdependent development, biochemistry, physiology, genetics, ecology, and evolution will be considered. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 227 - Genes and Gender

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Explores the role of genetics and biology of gender. A review of both classical and molecular genetics will provide a basis for consideration of the extent to which gender is determined by genes and how they are regulated. Biology elective and course for non-science major. Prerequisite: BIO 103 and approval of instructor.


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  • BIO 230 - Invertebrate Zoology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    More than 95 percent of the animals on the planet earth do not have backbones – they are invertebrates. This course investigates principles of animal design and patterns of phylogenetic relationships among the major animal phyla. The course will combine field and laboratory studies of animal structure and function. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 240 - Marine Biology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    An investigation of marine communities and the important physical and chemical variables influencing marine organisms. Lecture topics will include: effects of the aquatic environment in terms of body form, life history, and ecology; the relationship between physical and biological structure; nutrient cycling; and oceanic productivity. Course combines field and laboratory study at the ecosystem and individual organism level. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 308 - Modern Genetics

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Presents the basic principles of classical and molecular genetics with an emphasis on experimental design, data analysis, and problem solving. Recent advances in molecular and human genetics will be discussed with the use of research papers from the literature. Laboratory exercises will introduce students to the basic techniques and experimental protocols of molecular biology and genetics. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 310 - Evolution

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Designed as an introduction to Darwinian evolutionary theories. Topics include the rise of evolutionary biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evidence for evolution, natural selection, molecular evolution, adaptation, macro evolutionary change, speciation, fossil record, biogeography, and classification. Intended for biology majors and minors. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 320 - Developmental Biology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Designed to familiarize students with the principles of development in biological systems. In lectures and laboratories, the process of the emergence of mature from less mature stages in the living organism is considered at various levels: molecular, cellular, tissue, and organismal. Emphasis on the description and experimental bases of developmental processes. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 330 - Comparative Biomechanics

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    The bewildering diversity of living forms on earth has evolved in accordance with basic physical principles. This course examines the physical rules affecting potential designs of living organisms. Course topics include essential size-shape patterns and the mechanics of walking, running, flying, and swimming. Combines field and laboratory studies of animal structure and function. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 350 - Animal Behavior

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Animal behavior investigates the mechanisms, ecology, and evolution of actions by animals as well as historical and current perspectives on the study of animal behavior. Emphasis is placed on discussing proximate and ultimate questions about behavior. The laboratory provides instruction on methods for conducting behavioral research, plus field trips. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 360 - Neurobiology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Focus on the biology of neurons—their structure, biology, signaling mechanisms, and how they are affected by psychoactive drugs and disease. An emphasis will be placed upon the cellular and molecular approaches to neurobiology. The laboratory will examine the regulation of neuronal activity and development through the use of computer simulations, animal models, and modern research methods. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 395 - Research

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    The investigation of special problems in biology. The widest freedom of choice of a problem, compatible with the personnel and physical facilities of the department, will be allowed the student. With the permission of the faculty supervisor, 395 may be elected by highly qualified biology majors on a pass/fail basis only. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.


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  • BIO 396 - Research

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    The investigation of special problems in biology. The widest freedom of choice of a problem, compatible with the personnel and physical facilities of the department, will be allowed the student. With the permission of the faculty supervisor, 396 may be elected by highly qualified biology majors on a pass/fail basis only. Prerequisite: BIO 395; Permission of instructor.


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  • BIO 401 - Ecology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    An introductory course designed to familiarize students with the principles and scope of ecology. The ecosystem approach is emphasized. Some consideration is given to environmental pollution and conservation of natural resources. Field trips are designed to acquaint students with the various habitats present in Rhode Island and the neighboring states. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 403 - Plant Physiology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Designed to provide students with an overview of the functional aspects of higher plants: photosynthesis, nutrition, water balance, growth, developmental, and physiological responses to the environment. Emphasis is placed on emerging research and its applications. The laboratory is designed to acquaint students with current experimental techniques in this field. Prerequisites: BIO 103-104.


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  • BIO 405 - Physiology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Covers the basic principles and mechanisms of animal physiology. Emphasis is placed upon nervous systems, sensory mechanisms, endocrine systems, intracellular signaling mechanisms, and muscle contractility. Homeostatic mechanisms and the systems responsible for supply of the internal environment are also discussed. The laboratory consists of mainly experimental procedures of cellular physiology. Prerequisite: BIO 200 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 407 - Microbiology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    A lecture-laboratory, primary scientific literature course covering the biology of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria and viruses. Microbes are important research tools in many areas of cellular biology, as well as in microbiology per se. Lectures and laboratory exercises will be devoted to a survey of the microbial world, bacterial metabolism and growth, viruses, bacterial genetics, and host-parasite relationships. Prerequisite: BIO 200 or permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 410 - Electron Microscopy

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Students are required to become proficient in the basic preparation techniques of biological materials for transmission and scanning electron microscopy, in the theory and operation of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the transmission electron microscope (TEM), and in the documentation of data derived from these instruments. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 412 - Microbial Physiology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Designed to introduce students to the physiology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes emphasizing several key model systems: E. coli, B. subtilis, and S. cerevisiae.  Emphasis is placed on the molecular underpinnings of microbial physiology.  Laboratory introduces students to experimental protocols used in studies involving several microbial model systems.   Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 413 - Cell Signaling

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Biological systems are subject to regulation and many recent advances have delineated the molecular mechanisms underlying this regulation. This course is designed to provide coverage across a broad spectrum of disciplines including genetics, developmental biology, neurobiology, immunology, physiology, and cell biology. Class discussions will focus on readings from the recent scientific literature. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 416 - Immunology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Study of how humans and other animals defend themselves against invasion by other organisms. Subjects include the fundamental aspects of innate, humoral, and cell-mediated immunity. Emphasis on the molecular and cellular aspects of immunology. Experiments that are germane to the main topics will be discussed. Prerequisite: BIO 200.


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  • BIO 418 - Biotechnology

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    This integrated lecture/laboratory course is designed to introduce the subject of biotechnology and current laboratory techniques, as applied to recombinant DNA technology, microbiology, and immunology including electrophoresis, DNA fingerprinting, Southern blot, restriction enzyme mapping, and transformation. Additionally, cell culture, nano-technology, siRNA, DNA microarray, FACS analysis, GMO and Ag-biotechnology, stem cells, and bioethics will be included. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 450 - Internship

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Offers majors an opportunity to explore practical applications of biological principles in the workplace. Students prepare a proposal, obtain site supervisor and department chair approval, and complete an Internship Learning Agreement prior to registration. Minimally, students spend 8-12 hours per week on site, maintain a journal, and complete a paper integrating academic and experiential components. Pass/fail basis only.


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  • BIO 475 - Advanced Topics Seminar

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Critically examines an advanced topic of contemporary interest to biology students and faculty. Content is variable. The course is offered after consideration by the department faculty and at the discretion of the chair. Junior and senior biology majors will be given preference. Prerequisite: At the discretion of the instructor.


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  • BIO 476 - Advanced Topics Seminar

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Critically examines an advanced topic of contemporary interest to biology students and faculty. A laboratory component adds a hands-on approach to understanding the topic area. Content is variable. The course is offered after consideration by the department faculty and at the discretion of the chair. Junior and senior biology majors will be given preference. Prerequisite: At the discretion of the instructor.


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  • BIO 495 - Research

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Continuation of 396, culminating in a documented report of progress. With the permission of the faculty supervisor, 495 may be elected by highly qualified biology majors on a pass/fail basis only. Prerequisites: BIO 396 and permission of the instructor.


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  • BIO 496 - Research

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Continuation of 495, culminating in a documented report of progress. With the permission of the faculty supervisor, 496 may be elected by highly qualified biology majors on a pass/fail basis only. Prerequisites: BIO 495 and permission of the instructor.


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Black Studies
  

  • BLS 101 - Introduction to Black Studies

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Familiarizes the student with the foundations of black studies as a scholarly inquiry, introducing the diverse field’s most important theoretical approaches, preparing the student for further courses in black studies while building analytical skills and fostering an understanding of black life and culture in the Americas. Students will engage in a semester long activism project.


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  • BLS 107 - The African-American Artist

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to African-American achievements in the visual arts, especially painting, from Colonial times to the present. Same as ARH 107.


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  • BLS 210 - Topics in African and African-American History

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Black studies begins with black history. African civilization, technology and trade, European colonialism, slavery, the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the northward migration, the civil rights movement, Black Power, and black liberation—these are some important periods and themes that structure historical understanding of Africans in the United States.


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  • BLS 215 - Dimensions of Contemporary Black Life

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Social and cultural analysis provides an understanding of the structures and processes of social and political power. This course examines contemporary issues, achievements and problems of African Americans, their families, and their communities, offering both questions and answers about the persistent inequality and conflict that characterize the black experience in the late 20th century.


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  • BLS 225 - The African World View

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Introduces African history and culture as an independent aspect of world civilization. Considers Afrocentrism, post-colonialism, world systems analysis, dependency theory, colonialism, imperialism, state formation, and cultural exchange. Shows how distinctive African contributions have shaped, and are shaped by, the world’s cultures.


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  • BLS 227 - History of Jazz

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A study of the history of jazz from African music to contemporary trends and more popular forms. Emphasis will be placed on styles and performers. Analytical listening will be required. Same as AMS 227 and MSC 227.


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  • BLS 230 - Faith and Spirit in the Black Family and Community

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Covers the many ways in which religious practice and faith have contributed to the development of contemporary African-American society and culture. African and African-American Catholicism, conventional and evangelical Protestantism, Islam, traditional African spirituality, syncretic traditions of the Caribbean and South America, voodoo, and contemporary mysticism are considered. Students will engage in a semester long activism project.


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  • BLS 302 - Diversity, Community, and Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Diversity in American Society and its implications for people in community service. Topics: ethnicity/race, language, religion, gender, social class, sexual orientation, and peoples with “disabilities.” Students study problems in cross-cultural communication and ways in which their life experiences and social structures of service organizations affect community service. Community service case studies relevant to diversity issues used. Same as PSP 302. Prerequisite: PSP 101 or instructor permission.


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  • BLS 303 - Urban Politics in the United States

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A survey of city politics in the United States from a variety of theoretical perspectives, using analytical concepts such as social class, pluralism, political economy, and urban regimes. Includes urban elections and party machines, metropolitan development and suburbanization, and racial and ethnic political mobilization. Fulfills the American Politics requirement. Same as PSC 303.


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  • BLS 304 - Social Movements

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    What was it like to be a part of the 1950s and 1960s U.S. civil rights movement? Examines why people join social movements, how they are organized, why they occur when they do, and why they succeed or fail, and offers a critical evaluation of current theories of social and political movements. Same as SOC 304.


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  • BLS 305 - Race and Ethnic Relations

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An analysis of race and ethnic relations in America with special emphasis on the historical and contemporary experience of Native Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, African Americans, and European Americans. Sociological theory and data are used to examine the structural sources and effects of racism, prejudice, and discrimination. Same as SOC 305.


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  • BLS 307 - Urban Sociology

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Identifies the extent of, and reasons for, such urban problems as poverty, crime, and homelessness in cities such as Providence, New York, Boston, and Chicago. In generating explanations and developing solutions, the course draws on the theories of urban sociologists and on the personal experience of those who confront urban problems. Same as SOC 307.


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  • BLS 313 - The Power of Whiteness

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Historical development of “whitenesses” within the context of colonialism, slavery, imperialism and globalization, and their aftermaths as a way of understanding the cultural environments and processes of ethno-racial and gender-sexual identity formation today. Hegemonic whiteness is deconstructed and challenged. Whiteness is examined as an unnamed, unmarked category, “whites are just normal,” that carries powers and privileges. Same as AMS 313, GST 313, SOC 313 and WMS 313.


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  • BLS 320 - Diversity and Culture in Social Work Practice

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    “Cultural competence” includes awareness of one’s own culture-based world view, awareness of the world views of diverse clients, and skills in working across cultural differences. Such competence will be pursued through reflection and dialogue about students’ own cultures and contacts with others of different cultures in reading, cocurricular exploration, and service learning. Same as SWK 320.


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  • BLS 323 - Contemporary Social Problems

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Covers the major social problems of contemporary American society. Attention is given to the problems of poverty, racism, sexism, war, the environment, overpopulation, drug use, and crime. An analysis is made of the structural causes and consequences of these issues. Same as SOC 323.


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  • BLS 325 - African-American Women

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Focuses on sociological analyses of the constructions and reconstructions of African-American women, examining the interrelationships of gender, race, caste, class, racism, and sexism in the United States, past and present. Topics include the family, male-female relations, poverty, discrimination, social movements, with particular emphasis on origins, consequences, social and individual changes and resistance to change, sociological, and feminist theories. Same as AMS 325, SOC 325, and WMS 325.


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  • BLS 334 - African Politics

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Analysis of government and politics in selected African countries, focusing on issues of economic liberalization, democratization and good governance, ethnicity, class, gender, youth, conflicts, and civil wars. Emphasis on evolving state-society and civil-society relations within the context of new political structures and democratic institutions. Fulfills the Comparative Government and Politics requirement. Same as PSC 334.


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