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2016-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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2016-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

Core Curriculum Requirements
The Core Foundation/Proficiency attribute search terms are:

  • Civic Engagement, Diversity, Ethics, Fine Arts, Natural Science, Oral Communication, Philosophy, Physics-Based Natural Science, Quantitative Reasoning, Social Science, Theology, Writing I, Writing II

To search in the Catalog for courses that meet specific Core Foundation/Proficiency attributes, there are three options:

  1. Use the Course Filter on the Course Descriptions page. Enter your desired search term in the “Keyword or Phrase” box and check the box beneath for “Find whole word or phrase only.”
  2. Enter the desired search term, in quotes, in the Publication Search box.
  3. Use the Advanced Search feature of the Publication Search. Click on the Advanced Search button and type in the desired search term in the “Enter a keyword or phrase” field, check the box beneath for “Find whole word or phrase only.”, and leave only the Courses checkbox checked. This will ensure that only courses containing the desired search term show.

In addition, users may visit the Core Curriculum site for a listing of courses that have been approved for specific Core Curriculum requirements and/or search the Semester Course Offerings in CyberFriar.

Need assistance? Please contact Alyssa Marton at aneubeck@providence.edu or 401.865.1765.
 

Psychology
  

  • PSY 490 - Independent Study

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Students engage in intensive reading or original research in psychology under the direction of one or more faculty according to a pre-arranged plan. Course may be repeated for credit, but it may be applied only once to meet the psychology concentration requirements. Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings

Public and Community Service Studies
  

  • PSP 101 - Introduction to Service in Democratic Communities

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement

    An examination of concepts of community and service and their status in the United States and the world today, including examination of alternative conceptions of community and service and analysis of their meaning and value. Requires work in the community for 2-3 hours per week on average.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings
  

  • PSP 202 - Foundations of Organizational Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to the basic precepts of organizations, organizational behavior, and organizational theory that provide the context within which public and community service take place. Participation in a community service project may be required.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings
  

  • PSP 301 - Community Service in American Culture

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement

    A historical perspective on social and cultural settings in which service takes place in American culture and on the history of attempted solutions to social problems. Students will be introduced to the methodology of community action research and to the use of community service to critically interpret cultures. Requires work in the community for 2-3 hours per week on average.


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  • PSP 302 - Diversity, Community, and Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    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 BLS 302. Prerequisite: PSP 101 or instructor permission.


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  • PSP 303 - Community Organizing

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing I

    Students learn to view social, economic, and political problems from an organizer’s perspective and to act on these problems using community organizing skills and practices. Historical and contemporary organizing traditions and approaches are explored alongside a real-world “organizing project” of the student’s choosing. Prerequisite: PSP 101 or permission of instructor.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings
  

  • PSP 320 - Practicum in Public and Community Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication

    Provides skills necessary for leadership in communities and small groups, as they relate to providing service. Students assist in service learning courses as facilitators at service sites and reflection leaders. Supervision and feedback will be provided to develop management skills. Normally taken by second-semester sophomores and first-semester juniors. Prerequisites: PSP 101 or 303, and PSP 202, or by instructor’s permission.


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  • PSP 321 - Practicum in Public and Community Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication

    Provides skills necessary for leadership in communities and small groups, as they relate to providing service. Students assist in service learning courses as facilitators at service sites and reflection leaders. Supervision and feedback will be provided to develop management skills. Normally taken by second-semester sophomores and first-semester juniors. Prerequisites: PSP 101 or 303, and PSP 202, or by instructor’s permission.


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  • PSP 333 - Community Lens

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement; Fine Arts

    Examines the concept and practice of community and social change through the lens of photography. Students learn digital photography skills, engage in a community-based photography project, and produce a final photo exhibition. Same as ART 333 and GST 333.


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  • PSP 360 - Justice Across Borders

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Focuses on the meaning of “justice across borders,” with special attention to the historical and contemporary relationship between the U.S. and its border communities. Reflection on cross-border service experience will be included in the course with opportunities to identify and develop strategies for defining and enhancing justice across borders. Same as GST 360. Prerequisites: PSP 101 or GST 101.


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  • PSP 361 - Philanthropy

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement

    Designed to support students’ acquisition of a range of basic knowledge and skills related to philanthropic practice. Combines an emphasis on the theoretical foundations of philanthropy with practical experience in two philanthropic fundamental tools: fund raising and fund distribution. Prerequisites: PSP 101 or permission of the department.


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  • PSP 371 - Topics in Community Engagement

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Provides the opportunity for the in-depth study of a current controversy or theoretical issue in public and community service with real-world applications, as participation in an intensive community engagement experience is required as part of the course. Travel may often be included in this course, and when this is the case, students are charged trip fees and airfare in addition to their tuition. Prerequisite: Application and interview required.


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  • PSP 395 - Community Engaged Research

    1 semester, Variable (1-3) Credits

    Students will be engaged in a community-based research project under the direction of the faculty member. Variable credit hours (1-3 credit hours) where one credit hour equals four weekly hours research time. Must be taken on a pass/fail basis. May be repeated for credit.  Prerequisite: permission of the instructor required.


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  • PSP 450 - Internship in Community Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An intensive public or community service internship experience in an applied setting. Combines attention to community service issues with specific academic themes designated by the instructor. The internship placement will be integrated with track courses. The experience will be supervised and evaluated with appropriate academic assignments, as designated by the instructor. Prerequisites: PSP 101 and 202.


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  • PSP 470 - Special Topics in Public and Community Service

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication/Civic Engagement

    In-depth analysis of special topics not covered in such depth in existing course offerings. The exact content will vary but may be drawn from current issues, events, and problems, or from theoretical and empirical debates in the research field of community service.


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  • PSP 480 - Capstone Seminar

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II

    A one-semester seminar for senior minors and the first part of a yearlong seminar for senior majors that synthesizes and deepens academic learning with practical experiences. It will focus typically on some of the larger concepts foundational to the major, providing an opportunity to draw together the complex, interdisciplinary material studied during the previous three years. Student will submit a significant written project or product in consultation with faculty.


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  • PSP 481 - Capstone Seminar

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II

    The second part of a yearlong seminar for senior majors that synthesizes and deepens academic learning with practical experiences. It will focus typically on some of the larger concepts foundational to the major, providing an opportunity to draw together the complex, interdisciplinary material studied during the previous three years. Student will submit a significant written project or product in consultation with faculty.


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  • PSP 490 - Independent Study

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A project, done in consultation with a faculty member, in which the student is free to pursue his or her own specialized interests in public and community service. Projects could include community involvement, reading and writing in a specialized area within the field, or community action research. Prerequisite: Prior departmental approval required.


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  • PSP 491 - Independent Study: Community Health

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A requirement for minors who pursue the Community Health track. Similar to PSP 490 but with a focus on community health. Coordinated by both the director of the Feinstein Institute and the advisor for health professions. Prerequisite: Prior departmental approval required.


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Social Science
  

  • SSC 480 - Social Science Capstone Seminar

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Senior-level capstone seminar to integrate and explore the interdisciplinary material in the major with an emphasis on how to conduct and evaluate social scientific investigation and explanation, as well as how to approach a problem from a social scientific perspective using appropriate theoretical and methodological tools.


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Social Work
  

  • SWK 101 - 21st Century Social Work

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Social Science

    Introduces professional social work in terms of practice methods and services involved in working with people, such as counseling children, adults, or families; developing programs for at-risk youth or fragile elders; and organizing communities. Course emphasis is on exploring the dynamics of helping that underlie all practice through readings, discussion, and hands-on service learning and on understanding societal forces that engender private problems. Prerequisite: Juniors and seniors by permission.


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  • SWK 220 - Diversity and Culture in Social Work Practice

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    “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 BLS 320.


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  • SWK 253 - Human Behavior Through the Life Span

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Social Science

    Students investigate biological, social, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of human development throughout the lifespan and consider the impacts that individual and environmental forces exert on behavior and adaptive functioning. Normative developmental tasks and abilities are used as reference points in understanding the strengths and problems of diverse populations.


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  • SWK 254 - Human Behavior in Social Systems

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Social Science

    Common patterns of human behavior found in diverse family structures, groups, organizations, institutions, neighborhoods, and communities are examined through the application of a social systems perspective. Small and large group theory are used to critically evaluate contexts for behavioral norms, social roles, socialization, situational pressures within organizations resulting from various authority and leadership styles, organizational structures, and patterns of communication.


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  • SWK 280 - Violence Against Women

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Examines the institutional context of this social epidemic. Issues of race, age, and sexual orientation are explored, as the scope, prevalence, forms, and consequences of violence against women are examined. While the focus is intimate partner violence, broader issues of sexual assault, human trafficking, etc. will be incorporated, as will prevention, intervention, policy, and the criminal justice system’s response. Same as WMS 280.


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  • SWK 285 - Current Issues in the Addiction Field

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Introduces the ever-changing field of addiction assessment, intervention, and treatment. Addresses the legal and illegal drugs of abuse, the neuroscience of addiction, the identification and assessment of addiction, and best practice approaches. Intends to provide accurate knowledge and experiences regarding alcohol and other drug problems and issues. A social work perspective using a bio-psycho-social approach will be utilized. Students will become familiar with concepts in the addiction field and gain an understanding of the impact of addiction at the individual, family, community and global levels.


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  • SWK 301 - Current Issues

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Oral Communication

    Offers an in-depth examination of specific contemporary problems, their scope, policy implications, practice issues, and the role of social work in addressing these. Recent offerings include Violence Against Women (examines the problem of violence against women as a major social problem which warrants an organized societal response); International Human Services (explores the international sociopolitical and global economic contexts for the delivery of human services); HIV-AIDS in the 21st Century (introduces a conceptual framework for understanding the medical, scientific, political, legal, social, psychological, and ethical dilemmas associated with HIV/AIDS and society’s response to the AIDS pandemic); and Mental Health and Dysfunction (offers a developmental, dynamic systems approach to understanding psychosocial problems and helping interventions).


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  • SWK 302 - Problems and Practices with At-Risk Children and Families

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Examines the social and environmental challenges contributing to the vulnerabilities that place children, youth, and families at physical, medical, and emotional risk for abuse, neglect, school failure, health, mental health, and substance abuse problems. Risk factors are identified, classified, and explored through a multidimensional, multi-systemic approach to understanding through actual case materials. Contemporary treatment interventions and existing services are identified and evaluated.


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  • SWK 360 - Social Policy

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Historical and contemporary factors influencing social policy development define the processes which American society uses to approach social problem identification. Examination and analysis of current policy issues through debate explicates the underlying and competing values in social welfare policies and the role of social workers as policy makers and shapers. Prerequisite: Junior social work majors only.


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  • SWK 365 - Practice with Individuals, Families, and Groups

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Generalist practice skills necessary for work with individuals, groups, and families and learning to engage client systems, identify and assess needs, and develop service plans are emphasized. Videotaping and simulation techniques are employed to develop the skills of relationship building, interviewing, problem solving, and the professional use of self. Knowledge, values, and ethics of the profession are underscored. Prerequisite: Junior majors only.


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  • SWK 366 - Community and Political Practice

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Civic Engagement

    Community practice strengthens neighborhood bonds, building social capital and networks. Through organizing, communities are empowered to create grassroots organizations and focus on advocacy strategies to remedy social, political, and economic injustices. Students learn to mobilize citizens to obtain collective power, to advocate for current relevant legislation in the R.I. General Assembly, and to complete needs assessments. Prerequisite: Junior majors only.


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  • SWK 368 - Research

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Quantitative

    Social science research processes, probability and evidence-based practice, basic study designs, and frequently used statistical procedures are introduced. Students will become beginning practitioners of empirical research by evaluating research reports, analyzing logic and methods of empirical inquiry (including program evaluation and single-subject designs), examining ethical research issues, and designing, executing, and evaluating their own research projects. Prerequisite: Social Work majors only.


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  • SWK 370 - Social Work Practicum and Seminar I

    1 semester, 4 Credits

    Provides students with the opportunity to learn firsthand about social work practice, requires a minimum of eight hours weekly of professionally supervised practice activity in a community-based human service organization. A concurrent seminar advances learning about functioning in a professional capacity with client systems in an organizational context. Understanding and embodying ethical practice standards is emphasized. Prerequisite: Junior majors only.


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  • SWK 450 - Social Work Practicum and Seminar II

    1 semester, 6 Credits

    First semester of a two-semester practicum, requiring a minimum of 16 hours weekly of professionally supervised, educationally directed practice experience. Students build generalist practice competencies focused on engaging individuals, families, organizations, and communities in deliberate change. Reflective, informed, evidenced-based, culturally competent habits of practice are emphasized. The concurrent seminar supports professional identification and peer-supported learning.  Prerequisite: Senior majors only.


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  • SWK 451 - Social Work Practicum and Seminar III

    1 semester, 6 Credits

    A continuation of the senior level practicum in which emphasis is placed on integrating and evidencing practice competencies with systems of various sizes, use of the relationship to advance the work in various contexts, policy advocacy to advance human rights and social and economic justice, systematic practice evaluation, and effective oral and written communication. Prerequisite: Senior majors only.


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  • SWK 468 - Research Methods II: Advanced Research Design and Statistical Analysis

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Building on SWK 368, this course stresses “hands-on” practice in applying statistical analyses via computation and statistical software such as SPSS to interpretation of standardized and student-created measures employed in typical social work research designs. Prerequisite: SWK 368 or permission of instructor.


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  • SWK 488 - Theory/Practice Capstone

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II; Oral Communication

    Designed to consolidate didactic and field learning and integrate the professions’ theories and practice models, students identify differential problem areas and tailor theoretical and practice models to meet the specific needs of populations-at-risk, diverse groups, and communities. Strategies to combat discrimination and oppression and promote social and economic justice are explored. A thesis project is a required assignment. Prerequisite: Senior majors only.


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  • SWK 489 - Theory/Practice Capstone

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II; Oral Communication

    Designed to consolidate didactic and field learning and integrate the professions’ theories and practice models, students identify differential problem areas and tailor theoretical and practice models to meet the specific needs of populations-at-risk, diverse groups, and communities. Strategies to combat discrimination and oppression and promote social and economic justice are explored. A thesis project is a required assignment. Prerequisite: Senior majors only.


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  • SWK 490 - Independent Study

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Guided independent study/research into social work knowledge or practice involves task-framing, execution, and assessment as important student responsibilities, which must be specified prior to registration and developed throughout the semester in consultation with faculty.


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Sociology
  

  • SOC 101 - Introductory Sociology

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Social Science

    An analysis of the social bases of human behavior. Introduction to the basic concepts, perspectives, and research techniques of contemporary sociology, including topics such as social organization, culture, socialization deviance, and stratification.


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  • SOC 209 - Social Research Methods

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Quantitative

    Examines the basic logic and techniques employed by sociology in conducting empirical research and analyzing the data obtained. Although the course covers the full array of methods, the emphasis is decidedly quantitative, focusing on experimental control, sampling, and survey methodology. Part of the class is conducted in the computer laboratory using social scientific software programs. Prerequisites: SOC 101.


    Click here for the Semester Course Offerings
  

  • SOC 301 - Sociology of the Family

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity; Social Science

    Family patterns and processes in selected societies. Uniformities and variations in structures are considered. The family is analyzed as a social institution and as a form of intimate behavior. Various alternatives to the family are explored, and issues related to human sexuality and gender-role behavior are examined.  The course will focus on race, class, and gender. Same as WMS 303.


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  • SOC 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 BLS 304.


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  • SOC 305 - Race and Ethnic Relations

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    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 BLS 305.


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  • SOC 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 BLS 307.


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  • SOC 310 - Society, Culture, and the Individual

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Explores the ways in which individuals process and then either adopt or reject competing norms and values. Scholars have used different concepts to explain this basic fact of human behavior: social psychology, symbolic interaction, culture, ideology, hegemony, interpellation, discourse, and habitus. Students will learn the advantages and disadvantages of each.


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  • SOC 313 - The Power of Whiteness

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    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, BLS 313, and WMS 313.


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  • SOC 318 - Globalization and Social Justice

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    With the fall of socialist states, capitalist markets, economic relations, and consumerism have become global. Examine the political, cultural, and economic origins, consequences, and responses (with specific concern for the prospects for social justice, democracy and equality) in the rich and poor countries of the world; impacts on workers; ecological, resource, and environmental implications; and anti-corporate globalization resistance movements. Same as AMS 318, GST 318, and WMS 318.


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  • SOC 319 - Sociology of Health and Illness

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Explores the social aspects of health and illness, the relationship of illness to the organization of society, and the organization of medical care — the distribution of correlates of mortality and morbidity, attitudes toward illness, the sick role, the organization of therapeutic settings, the economics and politics. Health delivery systems are evaluated cross-culturally and proposals for change in the American health system are critiqued. Same as HPM 319.


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  • SOC 321 - Social Change

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Social Science

    Examines classical and contemporary explanations of the nature (what?), causes (why?), agents (by whom?), processes (how?), and responses to change. Focus is on societal and global levels. Emphasis on American social trends during the 20th century and the 1960s and its legacy. Same as AMS 321. Prerequisite: SOC 101. Not open to freshmen.


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  • SOC 322 - Occupations and Professions

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A sociological investigation of occupations and professions in contemporary American society. The course is an analysis of the nature of occupations in relation to social structure, occupational differentiation, and socialization and education of occupations and professions. There is also a consideration of current issues in occupational sociology, including professionalization, sex-role differentiation, and the implications of occupation for life changes.


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  • SOC 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 BLS 323.


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  • SOC 324 - Sociology of Women and Men in Society

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Analyzes the social, cultural, political, and economic roles of women and men cross-culturally and historically in societies such as the United States, Europe, the former Soviet Union, China, Latin America, the Middle East, and certain small subsistence-level societies. Structural and cultural causes, and consequences of different forms of gender stratification are emphasized. Same as WMS 324.


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  • SOC 325 - African-American Women

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    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, and social movements, with particular emphasis on origins, consequences, social and individual changes and resistance to change, sociological, and feminist theories. Same as AMS 325, BLS 325, and WMS 325.


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  • SOC 337 - Criminology

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Social Science

    The study of crime as a social phenomena, including the origin of criminal law, measurement of criminal behavior, and the various categories of crime. The focus of the course is primarily on describing and explaining crime rather than formal responses to it.


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  • SOC 345 - The Consumer Society

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Consumption and consumerism are driving forces sustaining the expansionist logic of advanced capitalism and globalization.  Consumption of commodities has become the basis for the formation of ever-changing individual and group identities.  Examines the historical development of consumerism, theoretical approaches to understanding the political, social, economic, individual and very importantly, the environmental consequences of consumerism.   Same as AMS 345, GST 345, and WMS 345.


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  • SOC 347 - Women and Crime

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An in-depth look at a seemingly rare phenomenon-the participation of women in crime. First seen only as victims of crime, increased attention has focused on women as criminal offenders and found that their participation in crime both mimics and differs from that of men. In addition, although the roles of crime offender and crime victim overlap generally, the connection between victimization and offending is particularly strong for women. This course examines women as criminal offenders AND victims, and examines the complex pathways between these roles. Same as WMS 347.


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  • SOC 354 - Immigration

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Diversity

    Public discourse questions whether contemporary immigration is beneficial for society and whether today’s immigrants will assimilate similarly to previous immigrants. This course engages these debates by situating present-day U.S. immigrant experiences in historical and comparative perspectives. Topics include: theories of migration, immigrant incorporation, effects of migration on sending and receiving societies, and immigration laws and current policies. Same as GST 354.


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  • SOC 355 - Comparative Race and Inequality

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Examines histories and contemporary experiences of race across multiple settings, with attention to how race intersects with other social identities. Explores the relevance of race in understanding inequality, privilege, and community. Scholarly publications, autobiographies, films, non-fiction, media coverage, and community events serve as course texts. Same as BLS 355 and GST 355.


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  • SOC 401 - Political Economy of Race

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Examines the co-evolution of race and capitalism over the past 500 years, from racial justifications of imperialism (for an early critique see de las Casas 1552) to contemporary processes of neo-colonialism, neo-liberalism and racial capitalism. Same as GST 401 and BLS 401. Prerequisites: One of the following: BLS 101, SOC 313, SOC 315, GST 355, or permission of instructor.


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  • SOC 403 - History of Social Thought

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Classical sociological theories emerged from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries to explain certain alarming aspects of “modernity,” such as the advent of industrial capitalism and bureaucracy. This course takes the view that such theories are as relevant today as ever, particularly as tools for understanding globalization, which will be the central reference point for the course.


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  • SOC 411 - The Sociology of Disaster

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Introduces the sociological dimension of disasters and major events, which disrupt the prevailing order of society by causing injury, death, and/or property loss to large numbers of people. Possible case studies include earthquakes, heat waves, hurricanes, oil spills, chemical releases, or terrorist attacks. Examples include the September 11th terrorist attacks, Hurricane Katrina, or the San Francisco earthquake. A service project is normally required. Same as AMS 411.


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  • SOC 417 - Contemporary Sociological Theory

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Whereas classical theory emphasizes the coercive aspects of modernity (e.g., capitalist exploitation), contemporary sociological theory tends to emphasize more subtle forms of power. In this course, we will read the central proponents of this “hearts and minds” orientation. To put into practice what they learn, students will be required to run a hearts and minds campaign of their own.


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  • SOC 450 - Sociology Internship

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Offers students an opportunity to use their academic knowledge and sociological and other social science skills by working in a local agency/organization. Objective: First-hand understanding of social issues and problems. Students must have their site location in place prior to the start of the semester in which they enroll in the internship. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing.


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  • SOC 451 - Women and Family Issues Internship

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Offers students interested in Women’s Studies an opportunity to use their academic knowledge and relevant skills by working in a local agency/organization. Students must have an appropriate site location in place prior to the start of the semester in which they enroll in the internship. Same as WMS 451. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing.


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  • SOC 470 - Selected Topics in Sociology

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    The intensive development of a specific topic not covered in such depth in existing course offerings. The topic may be drawn from current issues, events, or problems, or from theoretical and empirical debates in the discipline of sociology. Recent examples of course titles include: Food Justice; Gender, Technology, and Health; Homelessness; Latinos in the U.S.; Masculinities, Femininities, and the Body; and The Death Penalty.


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  • SOC 480 - Senior Capstone Seminar

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Writing II; Oral Communication

    Explores the potential and limitations of sociological investigation and explanation, how to make a sociological argument in both written and oral form, how to determine if the evidence supports or refutes an argument, and how to utilize sociological data. Integrates sociological knowledge from a number of diverse subdisciplines.


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  • SOC 490 - Independent Study

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    A project in which the student is free to pursue his or her own specialized interest in sociology. Projects could include community involvement, reading in specialized areas of sociology, and field research. Prerequisite: Consent and supervision of a faculty member.


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Studio Thesis Courses

Required of all studio majors. Production of a mature body of work in preparation for the senior thesis exhibition. Prerequisite: Three courses in the selected concentration or consent of the department chairperson and advisor.
  
  
  
  
  
  

The Ensembles
  

  • MSC 142 - PC Pep Band

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit

    This group performs for athletic, College, and community events. Rehearsals required. Music to be performed: school songs, rock and popular music, and other styles appropriate to each situation. Since the instrumentation is limited to brass, saxophones, percussion, and electric instruments, students who play orchestral woodwinds are encouraged to learn one of the brass instruments, saxophone, or an electric instrument.  Game performance is contingent upon satisfactory attendance and progress as determined by the faculty director.


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  • MSC 240 - Orchestra

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    This large ensemble rehearses for a total of three hours per week and is open to musicians who play an orchestral instrument. The ensemble performs a wide variety of repertory, dating from the Baroque to the present, and presents a concert each semester of the academic year.


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  • MSC 242 - Symphonic Winds

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    This concert ensemble is devoted to the preparation and performance of the finest traditional and contemporary literature for wind and percussion instruments. Music majors and students from other academic areas find participation in this ensemble challenging and enjoyable. Open to all students with prior instrumental background, this ensemble performs at least four concerts per year.


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  • MSC 248 - Opera Workshop

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit

    Opera Workshop is a large ensemble that introduces students to the process of preparation for the performance of musical drama. Through work on scenes from serious and light operas, students gain experience in musical preparation, the development of dramatic characterization, stage movement, blocking, and so forth. Scenes are performed in concert at the end of the semester.


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  • MSC 342 - Jazz Band

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    This large ensemble performs jazz from all style periods as well as repertoires composed for large and small groups. All instrumentalists and singers interested in jazz are welcome but should consult the instructor before enrolling. Students will rehearse for a total of three hours per week and perform once each semester.


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  • MSC 347 - Concert Chorale

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    A large select ensemble, this mixed voice chorale serves as the touring choir along with I Cantori. Concert Chorale performs both major works and repertoire of many styles including traditional and multicultural music.


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  • MSC 440 - Chamber Ensemble

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit

    Groups of three to eight players; can include string quartet, woodwind quintet, brass quintet, flute quartet, piano and other trios, or any combination of players. Audition and permission of appropriate instructor required.


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  • MSC 441 - Jazz Chamber Ensemble

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit

    Small group jazz for rhythm section and winds. Groups may cover music of any jazz style period: New Orleans, swing, bebop, cool school, hard bop, modal, fusion, or modern. Audition and permission of instructor required.


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  • MSC 445 - Early Music Ensemble

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit

    In this ensemble, vocal and instrumental students will have the opportunity to explore and perform a wide variety of repertoire from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical periods. Compositions will be chosen based on the instruments and voices of the students who register for the ensemble. Audition or permission of the instructor required.


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  • MSC 447 - I Cantori

    1 semester, 1/2 Credit Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    This small, auditioned, mixed chorus is Providence College’s premiere choral ensemble, used both on and off campus when ambassadors of choral music are needed. This group performs a wide assortment of sacred and secular literature appropriate for the chamber ensemble.


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The Private Lessons
  

  • MSC 150 - 177 - Applied Music for Non-Majors

    1 semester, 1 1/2 Credits

    These are private lessons open to all interested students; instructors teach once a week on a one-to-one basis. Lessons do not count as a fifth course. There is an additional fee for these lessons. Students also must register in the music department for each of the following lessons: MSC 117 Vocal Jazz I, MSC 150 Piano I, MSC 151 Jazz Piano I, MSC 152 Organ I, MSC 153 Harpsichord, MSC 154 Voice I, MSC 155 Violin I, MSC 156 Viola I, MSC 157, Cello I, MSC 158 String Bass I, MSC 159 Flute I, MSC 160 Oboe I, MSC 161 Clarinet I, MSC 162 Bassoon I, MSC 163 Saxophone I, MSC 164 Trumpet I, MSC 165 Trombone I, MSC 166 French Horn I, MSC 167 Baritone I, MSC 168 Tuba I, MSC 169 Percussion I, MSC 170 Classical Guitar I, MSC 171 Jazz Guitar I, MSC 172 Electric Guitar I, MSC 173 Electric Bass I, MSC 175 Composition I, MSC 176 Harp I, MSC 177 Vocal Jazz I.


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  • MSC 250 - 278 - Applied Music II (for freshman/sophomore music majors and music minors)

    1 semester, 1 1/2 Credits

    For freshman/sophomore music majors and music minors. This is the introductory level of private instruction offering a more concentrated, thorough, and technical approach to the student’s chosen instrument. There is an additional fee for these lessons. Prerequisite: Permission of department. Students must also register in the music department for each of the following lessons: MSC 250 Piano II, MSC 251 Jazz Piano II, MSC 252 Organ II, MSC 253 Harpsichord II, MSC 254 Voice II, MSC 255 Violin II, MSC 256 Viola II, MSC 257 Cello II, MSC 258 String Bass II, MSC 259 Flute II, MSC 260 Oboe II, MSC 261 Clarinet II, MSC 262 Bassoon II, MSC 263 Saxophone II, MSC 264 Trumpet II, MSC 265 Trombone II, MSC 266 French Horn II, MSC 267 Baritone II, MSC 268 Tuba II, MSC 269 Percussion II, MSC 270 Classical Guitar II, MSC 271 Jazz Guitar II, MSC 272 Electric Guitar II, MSC 273 Electric Bass II, MSC 275 Composition II, MSC 276 Harp II, MSC 277 Vocal Jazz II, MSC 278 Applied Lessons in Conducting II.


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  • MSC 350 - 378 - Applied Music III (for junior/senior music majors)

    1 semester, 1 1/2 Credits

    For junior/senior music majors. A music major is expected to advance to this level of private instruction as a junior and senior. This upper-division applied study will assist in the preparation for the senior recital/project. There is an additional fee for these lessons. Prerequisites: Applied Music II and permission of department. Students must also register in the music department for each of the following lessons: MSC 350 Piano III, MSC 351 Jazz Piano III, MSC 352 Organ III, MSC 353 Harpsichord III, MSC 354 Voice III, MSC 355 Violin III, MSC 356 Viola III, MSC 357 Cello III, MSC 358 String Bass III, MSC 359 Flute III, MSC 360 Oboe III, MSC 361 Clarinet III, MSC 362 Bassoon III, MSC 363 Saxophone III, MSC 364 Trumpet III, MSC 365 Trombone III, MSC 366 French Horn III, MSC 367 Baritone III, MSC 368 Tuba III, MSC 369 Percussion III, MSC 370 Classical Guitar III, MSC 371 Jazz Guitar III, MSC 372 Electric Guitar III, MSC 373 Electric Bass III, MSC 375 Composition III, MSC 376 Harp III, MSC 377 Vocal Jazz II, MSC 378 Applied Lessons in Conducting III.


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Theatre, Dance, and Film
  

  • TDF 101 - Theatre Appreciation

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    An introductory course specifically designed for non-majors to increase the student’s awareness of the performing arts and their impact on society. The course will examine the various processes of stage production, the economics of the performing arts, and attempt to develop sound critical standards and enthusiasm through readings and attendance at performances.


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  • TDF 102 - Introduction to Oral Communication

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introductory course in recognizing and developing effective oral communication skills. Focuses on self-awareness, team building skills, listening skills, and oral presentations. Students will prepare a variety of individual and group presentations, exploring oral communication in formal and informal situations. Listening and evaluation skills are developed through engagement in discourse, activities, and written assignments. Previously offered as TDF 479.


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  • TDF 103 - Introduction to Theatrical Design

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Introduces the art of theatrical design, including scenery, costumes, and lighting. Includes the processes of theatrical design, script analysis, research techniques, conceptualization of a design metaphor, production meetings, rendering techniques, and preliminary construction choices. Students attend and analyze productions both on- and off-campus for design quality.


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  • TDF 105 - Stagecraft

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    An introduction to technical theatre. The fundamentals of scene design, construction, painting, and lighting will be studied. The student will be exposed to construction techniques of scenery for the professional and university stage. Artistic use of scene materials, reading of plans and drawings, and proper use of tools will be studied.


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  • TDF 106 - Introduction to Theatre, Dance, and Film

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    This survey course examines works in western theatre, dance, and film, with a particular emphasis on criticism. Class discussions are dedicated to the fundamentals of observation and critiquing, the creative process, and the principles of composition and design. Students participate in creative experiences and will attend live performances and films both on and off campus.


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  • TDF 107 - Oral Interpretation: The Performance of Literature

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts; Oral Communication

    Students explore the creative process through the analysis, rehearsal, and performance of selected literary pieces. Students gain extensive experience in oral presentation of prose and poetry. Focuses on representative works from a particular period or country.


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  • TDF 108 - Script Analysis

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Script analysis is a tool used by actors, directors, and designers to recognize and evaluate dramatic and performance values in a play script. Students learn techniques of text analysis designed to support creative work in rehearsal and production. Focuses on analysis of dramatic action and character relationships.


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  • TDF 109 - Introduction to Acting

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts; Oral Communication

    Designed with the beginning actor in mind. Introduces the student actor to the basic vocal and physical techniques of acting as well as exposes him/her to a variety of performance techniques. Traditional acting styles as well as improvisations, mime, and theatre games are experienced during the semester.


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  • TDF 111 - Introduction to Dance

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Exposes students to the technique and appreciation of three different types of dance: ballet, modern, and jazz. Students practice in the studio on an ongoing basis. In addition, students study the history and aesthetics of dance through readings and viewings of live performances and videotapes. Three short papers are required.


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  • TDF 120 - History of Film: Early Hollywood

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Traces the history of cinema from its beginnings at the turn of the 20th century to the establishment of the sound cinema. Emphasis is given to film as an art form as well as a social and political phenomenon in the United States and throughout the world. Same as AMS 120.


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  • TDF 121 - History of Film: Classic Hollywood and Beyond

    1 semester, 3 Credits Core Foundation/Proficiency: Fine Arts

    Traces key films and movements in the history of the cinema, from the classic Hollywood era in the 1940s to the flowering of international and independent cinema of the present. Emphasis is on cinema as an art form, medium of entertainment, and its development alongside politics, society, and the other arts. Same as AMS 121.


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  • TDF 201 - History of Fashion and Costuming

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    This lecture/lab course surveys the history of popular fashion in western civilization from biblical times to the advent of the 20th century. Various cultural factors that have influenced the history and design of clothing are considered.


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  • TDF 202 - History of Theatre

    1 semester, 3 Credits

    Designed as an introductory study in the evolution of theatrical modes and production styles from ancient times to the 19th century. Theatre architecture and the development of acting, directing, design, and playwriting in the major periods of theatre history are explored. The relationship between historical conditions and theatrical presentation is also studied.


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