Peace Corps Preparatory Program

The University of North Georgia, in cooperation with the , has established a Peace Corps Preparatory Program (PCPP) that is open to all students which will help you acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to serve in the Peace Corps.

While completing the requirements of the program does not guarantee admission into the Peace Corps, it does prepare students for service in the organization.

Somewhere in the world is a place where you can make a difference in someone else's life. Use your knowledge and expertise to help make lives better and share
in the lives of people in a world apart from your own.
How? Serve in the U.S. Peace Corps.

Application Process

You are encouraged to apply during your sophomore year as there may be prerequisite courses that need to be completed prior to taking the required courses. An early application will help you to better prepare for completing the requirements successfully.

You can plan accordingly using the information below to help fill out your application form and fulfill the requirements of the Peace Corps Preparatory Program. Contact Laurel Wei if you have any questions or need assistance.

Application Form

Program Structure

The program prepares you for international development fieldwork and potential Peace Corps service by helping you build four core competencies through coursework, hands-on experience, and professional development support.

These four competencies are the following:

Training and Experience in a Work Sector

Leveraging concrete knowledge and skills is central to on-the-ground international development work. Through the PCPP you will begin to build a professional specialty, which should serve your career well whether or not you become a Peace Corps Volunteer.

The Peace Corps Volunteers serve within . PCPP requires at least three courses that align within a sector. The courses can but do not need to come from your academic major or minor. You also must accumulate a minimum of 50 hours of volunteer or work experience in that same sector, preferably in a teaching or outreach capacity.

See the suggested courses for each sector below.

peace corps member with locals around a new water system

Work Sectors

Education
Teach lessons that last a lifetime. Education is the Peace Corp’s largest program area. Volunteers play an important role in creating links among schools, parents, and communities by working in elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools as math, science, conversational English, and resource teachers or early grade reading and literacy teacher trainers. Volunteers also develop libraries and technology resource centers.
Education Sector Courses Information

Take three courses from one of these areas. The links go to the listing in the academic catalog or program page.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

Recommended Education Sector Courses

EDUC 2110��-��Critical Issues in Education

This course engages students in analyses of critical educational issues influencing the social and political contexts of educational settings in Georgia and the United States. Students examine the teaching profession, the meaning of education and schooling in a diverse culture, and the moral and ethical responsibilities of teaching. The course provides students with a vocabulary as well as philosophical, historical, economic, sociocultural, and policy frameworks that scholars use to analyze and discuss P-12 schooling in U.S. society. This course requires materials and includes activities necessary to prepare students for field placement in EDUC 2120 and EDUC 2130.

Hours:
3

EDUC 2120��-��Exploring Sociocultural Perspectives on Diversity

This course is designed for students to examine (a) the nature and function of culture; (b) the development of individual identities and group cultural identity; (c) systems of privilege, power, and oppression; (d) definitions and implications of diversity; (e) the influences of sociocultural factors on learning, development, and pedagogy; and (f) the foundations and applications of social justice education.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: EDUC 2110 and ENGL 1101 with grades of C or higher (an overall GPA of 2.5 is recommended)

Hours:
3

EDUC 2130��-��Exploring Learning & Teaching

Future educators will understand how opportunities, access, and engagement intersect to contribute to P-12 student success. Educators will explore key aspects of learning and teaching, reflect on their own learning processes and those of others, and apply their knowledge to equitably meet diverse learning needs of P-12 students in a variety of educational settings and contexts.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: EDUC 2110 and ENGL 1101 with grades of C or higher (an overall GPA of 2.5 is recommended)

Hours:
3

ECSP 3010��-��Strategies for Supporting Children and Families from Diverse Communities

Students will learn best practices for supporting diverse students and their families. They will apply their learning to design and implement a service learning project that provides an intervention to a targeted PreK-5 student population.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: Complete and accepted application to College of Education for progression to upper division courses

Hours:
3

ECSP 4403��-��Education Internship - Planning

Internship for specific teaching fields. Effective instructional planning requires a deep understanding of content as well as the instructional needs and interests of the students. Efficient plans include appropriate instructional goals, alignment to the standards, differentiated instruction, variety of instructional methods and strategies, and assessment. Pre-service teachers are evaluated on their ability to plan effective and appropriate lessons for all students.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Complete and accepted application to College of Education for progression to upper division courses, successful completion of junior and senior level program coursework with a grade of C or higher, and successful completion of field placements preceding the final student teaching internship

Corequisites: ECSP 3540, ECSP 4404, and ECSP 4405

Hours:
2

ECSP 4404��-��Early Childhood/Special Education Internship - Performance

Internship for specific teaching fields. The goal of student teaching internship is to learn about the teaching profession while under the careful guidance of a mentor teacher. The majority of the time in the classroom is spent working directly with students in small groups, 1-on-1 instruction, whole class, etc. It is expected that lesson plans and materials are prepared ahead of time, and the intern is ready to teach at their assigned times. Interns are to work with the mentor teacher to learn about the students in the class. They are to use anecdotal, informal, and formal data to analyze the needs of the students when developing lessons. Lessons are carefully planned to include effective instructional strategies, methods for meeting the needs of all students, and a thoughtful analysis of the lesson afterward. Performance in the classroom is evident when the intern is prepared, is knowledgeable of the content and pedagogy, provides feedback and assesses formally and informally throughout the instructional segment.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Complete and accepted application to College of Education for progression to upper division courses, successful completion of junior and senior level program coursework with a grade of C or higher, and successful completion of field placements preceding the final student teaching internship

Corequisites: ECSP 3540, ECSP 4403, and ECSP 4405

Hours:
2

ECSP 4405��-��Early Childhood/Special Education Internship - Professionalism

Internship for specific teaching fields. Professionalism is critical to a teacher's success. There are four key components to showing professional responsibility: (1) reflecting on lessons and knowing where improvements can be made, (2) maintaining accurate records and submitting tasks/ reports / assignments on time (3) communicating clearly and professionally with parents, colleagues, and teachers, and (4) contributing to the school, the district, and in coursework through professional relationships, service and participation in projects. Students will participate in activities, seminars, and discussions related to these four components. Evidence of professional growth is documented by personal dispositions, assessment commentary, attendance, reflections, and feedback from the mentor teacher and university supervisor.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Complete and accepted application to College of Education for progression to upper division courses, successful completion of junior and senior level program coursework with a grade of C or higher, and successful completion of field placements preceding the final student teaching internship

Corequisites: ECSP 3540, ECSP 4403, and ECSP 4404

Hours:
2

KINS 3390��-��Methods for Teaching Health Education

A study of high impact practices and skill-themed methods of teaching health education for the P-12 health teacher.

��

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Complete and accepted application to College of Education for progression to upper division courses and KINS 4415 with a grade of C��or higher

Hours:
3

Build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as:

College of Education International Internships (England, New Zealand, Spain, Germany, or China)

Complete teaching experience as an intern in the education system of Great Britain, New Zealand, Germany, Spain (international school), or China

Education Abroad

Participate in a study abroad focusing on education through an international student exchange program

Health
Serve on the front lines of global health. Health Volunteers work within their communities to promote important topics such as nutrition, maternal and child health, basic hygiene, and water sanitation. Volunteers also work in HIV/AIDS education and prevention programs to train youth as peer educators, develop appropriate education strategies, provide support to orphans, and create programs that provide emotional and financial support to families and communities affected by the disease.
Health Sector Courses Information

Take three courses from one of these areas. The links go to the listing in the academic catalog or program page.

Biology (Pre-Med)

Recommended Heath Sector Courses

NURS 3250��-��Cultural Immersion - A Healthcare Experience

Students will spend a week in an identified country providing healthcare to an underserved population. Students will have the privilege of working with local health care providers and will also work with clinic staff to visit nearby villages to provide medical and nursing care. Common diagnoses could include: backaches, gastritis, arthritis, coughs/sinus problems, skin infestations and infections, parasites. Opportunities for education focused at prevention and wellness are abundant.

Hours:
3

BIOL 3250��-��Cultural Immersion - A Healthcare Experience

Students will spend a week in an identified country providing healthcare to an underserved population. Students will have the privilege of working with local health care providers and will also work with clinic staff to visit nearby villages to provide medical and nursing care. Common diagnoses could include: backaches, gastritis, arthritis, coughs/sinus problems, skin infestations and infections, parasites. Opportunities for education focused at prevention and wellness are abundant.

Hours:
3

NURS 3580��-��Transcultural Communication in Nursing

A course designed to help students acquire the skills necessary to communicate effectively in today's multicultural society. Classroom activities will focus on improving the student's ability to recognize and overcome cultural biases, learning about different styles of communication and developing transcultural communication skills and interacting with others in an ethical, caring manner.

Hours:
2

NURS 4043��-��Social Topics in Public Health Nursing

Students are introduced to the core public health competencies with an emphasis on application to entry-level public health nursing practice. Competencies addressed include analysis/assessment, policy/development and program planning, communication, cultural competency, community dimensions of practice, public health science, financial planning and management, and leadership and systems thinking. Students will apply these skills in the development and implementation of a community health project for clinical credit.

Hours:
3

SOCI 3100��-��Sociology of Health

This course explores the social context of health, illness, and the health care system in the United States. We will examine the social construction of health and illness, the experience of illness, and the effects of social inequality on health. The course offers a critical perspective on health and illness and highlights the connection between social justice, social transformation, and health and illness.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1101

Hours:
3

HLTH 2000��-��Introduction to Healthcare & Health Related Professions

This course is designed to give the student a working knowledge of careers in healthcare and health-related professions. Content provides strategies and resources for successful career planning along with concepts of professionalism, healthcare ethics, cultural competence, and the study of interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

Hours:
1

Build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as:

College of Health Sciences Study Abroad Programs (Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Uganda, Belize)

Participate in one of the cultural immersion programs and experience health care systems in Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Uganda, and Belize

Clinic Outreach

Participate in a clinic outreach program in North Georgia

Environment
Help forge a global movement to protect our planet. Volunteers lead grassroots efforts in their communities to protect the environment and strengthen understanding of environmental issues. They teach environmental awareness in elementary and secondary schools and to youth groups and community organizations, empowering communities to make their own decisions about how to protect and conserve the local environment. Volunteers also address environmental degradation by promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
Recommended Environment Sector Courses

Take three courses from one of these areas:

Environmental Science or related field

Natural Resources Conservation

Wildlife Biology

Natural Resources or Wildlife Management

Biology, Botany, or Ecology

Geology

BIOL 1102��-��Introduction to Ecology

A course for non-science students that focuses on the environment, evolution and biological diversity. It introduces students to a variety of organisms, particularly plants and animals; attention is given to their evolutionary and ecological interactions.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Corequisite: BIOL 1102L

Hours:
3

Notes:
Lecture and lab courses have a separate number and grade; therefore, if the lab is required with the lecture, they must be taken concurrently. The only exception is if one component (lecture or lab) is passed and the other failed, only the failed portion need be repeated. Lecture and lab must be taken on the same campus when taken concurrently, and must be taken in the same format (online or face–to–face).

BIOL 1260��-��Environmental Science

An interdisciplinary study of the fundamentals of ecology and their application to societal issues emphasizing human interactions with the world environment.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Corequisite: BIOL��1260L

Hours:
3

Notes:
Course is equivalent to ENVS 2202 only when used to replace a previous grade earned in ENVS 2202.

Lecture and lab courses have a separate number and grade; therefore, if the lab is required with the lecture, they must be taken concurrently. The only exception is if one component (lecture or lab) is passed and the other failed, only the failed portion need be repeated. Lecture and lab must be taken on the same campus when taken concurrently, and in the same format (online or face–to–face).

BIOL 1260L��-��Environmental Science Lab

An interdisciplinary study of global environmental issues utilizing field experiences, laboratory simulations, and case studies.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Corequisite: BIOL 1260

Hours:
1

Notes:
Lecture and lab courses have a separate number and grade; therefore, if the lab is required with the lecture, they must be taken concurrently. The only exception is if one component (lecture or lab) is passed and the other failed, only the failed portion need be repeated. Lecture and lab must be taken on the same campus when taken concurrently, and in the same format (online or face–to–face).

BIOL 3321K��-��General Botany

A study of the morphology, anatomy, photosynthesis, respiration, water relations, and ecology of plants. Course includes laboratory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 1108K with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
4

BIOL 3331��-��Ecology Field Study

A field study to explore the native ecosystems of the Southeast such as Lake Lanier and its watershed or the barrier islands off the coast of Georgia. The impact of humans on these resources will be emphasized. Course will include a required multi-day field experience. Students must pay a portion of the expenses.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 1108K

Hours:
2

BIOL 4311��-��Botany Field Study

A study of vascular plants via a required multi-day field experience. Students are expected to pay a portion of the expenses.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 3321K

Hours:
2

BIOL 4450��-��Evolutionary Biology

An introduction to evolution as a process as well as an examination of the interplay between scientific theory, observation, testing, and interpretation.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: BIOL 3220K and BIOL 3500K

Hours:
4

BIOL 4461��-��Marine Biology Field Laboratory

A study of regional marine habitats and their physical and biological characteristics via a required multi-day field experience. Students must pay a portion of the expenses.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 4460 (may be taken concurrently)

Hours:
1

ENST 2030��-��Environmental Studies & Sustainability

A seminar course that addresses the social, political, and cultural aspects of human ecological problems. As an introduction to the field of Environmental Studies, it examines both past and current human activities and their influence on our species and the physical environment, and it explores the place of cultural elements in creating and solving environmental problems.

Hours:
3

ENST 3040��-��Environmental Communication

A study of communication styles, strategies, and campaigns of participants in environmental policy debates (government, industry, environmentalists, scientists, the media, private citizens and anti-environmentalists). Students consider the various types of communication, the ways in which they shape and are shaped by different approaches to the environment and their interaction in a number of case studies. Students also reflect on their own environmental positions and arguments.

Hours:
3

ENST 3055��-��Environment and Society

The course will develop a critical understanding of the reciprocal relationship between humans and the natural environment. In exploring the ways in which humans influence the environment and the ways the environment sets the parameters of human society, the course applies a sociological framework to evaluate the interactions between social factors (class, race, gender, religion) and environmental factors (air and water quality, biodiversity, deforestation, ozone depletion) and discussions of current issues, including the U.S. environmental movement, ecotourism, waste management, energy policies, and "NIMBYism."

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENST 2030 or SOCI 1101 or SOCI 1160, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

ENST 3060��-��History and the Environment

This course explores the evolving historical relationship between humans and the global environment from pre-historical times to the present. The focus of the course is on political, economic, and cultural themes at different historical epochs, and includes the examination of such issues as the rise and fall of civilizations, colonialism, industrialization, and the changing perception and understanding of the environment around the world at different times.��

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ENST 2030, GISC 2011, and GISC 2011L, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

ENST 3065��-��Social Influence and the Environment

This course examines the ways in which institutions and other people influence our thoughts, attitudes, and ultimately our behavior in regard to the environment. Topics examined include things such as: research methods, knowing, conformity, compliance, obedience, social facilitation, social loafing, attitude formation, attitude change, persuasion, bargaining, and group decision-making processes.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENST 2030, SOCI 1101, or SOCI 1160, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

ENST 3070��-��Health and the Environment

This course explores the relationships among people, health, and the environment from a systems perspective. It examines topics such as: healthcare decision-making, behavioral responses to pathogens, healthcare systems, and the built environment's effects upon improving or worsening health. The course will exam health concerns from the perspectives of international, national, state, and local involvement.��

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENST 2030 or GEOG 1101, or permission of the instructor

Hours:
3

ENST 3157��-��Native American History

The course explores the role of the environment in pre-historic/historic Native-American cultures and how it impacted the relationship between Native-Americans and Europeans. The course broadly examines Native-American history from the colonial age through the current era, focusing on academic areas which intersect environmental themes. This course is cross-listed with HIST 3157.

Hours:
3

Cross-listed
HIST 3157

ENST 3410��-��Environment, Technology, and Society

A comprehensive exploration of the sociological relationships between technology, economic policies, natural resources, population growth, and environmental degradation. Emphasis is on understanding these problems from an ecological perspective and the seriousness of these issues for future survival.

Hours:
3

ENST 3420��-��Environmental Studies Seminar

An in-depth examination of the interdisciplinary field of Environmental Studies to include: conflict and contradictions, societal responses to environmental problems including social adjustments to natural and technological hazards, socio-cultural aspects of technological risk, and emergence of environmental social policies and movements are explored via case studies and interviews with local experts. This class may have a substantial service learning component of at least 30 hours in the field. Cross-listed with SOCI 3420.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENST 2030, SOCI 1101, or SOCI 1160, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

Cross-listed
SOCI 3420

ENST 4035��-��Environmental Law, Policy, and Politics

This course introduces students to milestone environmental laws and policy, their formation, and application, as well as the social, economic, and political factors that facilitate and sometimes impede them. Specifically, the course will cover laws and policies that regulate air pollution, water rights and quality, endangered species, and toxic substances, both in the United States and internationally, their formulation and application processes, and how they affect and are affected by society in real life situations.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENST 2030 or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

ENST 4070��-��Practicum in Environmental Studies

A directed studies course which primarily involves practical application in some area of work related to the environment utilizing GIS. The instructor supervising the directed study will be associated with the area of application in which the student chooses to do his/her practicum, such as public policy, community relations, business, etc. The student is also introduced to possible positions available in his/her particular area of interest.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: Completion of 15 semester hours of coursework in Environmental Studies

Hours:
4

ENST 4220��-��Environmental Ethics

This course is designed to present students with the foundational and central issues of environmental ethics. The course examines a variety of approaches including, but not necessarily limited to individualistic approaches, holistic approaches, deep ecology, ecofeminism and political ecology. This course is cross-listed with PHIL 4220.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENST 2030, PHIL 2010, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

Cross-listed
PHIL 4220

GEOG 4000K��-��Environmental Geography

This course focuses on integrated physical, human, economic, and environmental issues. The course will include place and case studies from around the world. Topics covered include interactions with and impacts of humans on vegetation, soils, animals, water, and the atmosphere as well as future trends and scenarios for these resources. This course will encourage development of geographical knowledge and understanding of how humans interact with our environment.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: GEOG 1111K, GEOG 1112 & GEOG 1112L, GEOL 1121K, or GEOL 1122K

Hours:
3

GEOG 4200K��-��Biogeography

This course is an introduction to the growing field of biogeography. Topics covered include the arrival and differentiation of species, impacts of climate and plate tectonics on biodiversity, isolation, marine and island biogeography, and ecosystems. The course also analyzes interactions in nature and potential consequences of climatic and global environmental change on biodiversity.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: GEOG 3200K or GEOG 4000K, or permission of Instructor

Hours:
3

GEOG 4500K��-��Environmental Impact Assessment

This course is an introduction to conducting environmental impact assessments. Topics covered include methods and approaches as well as important considerations such as noise, socioeconomic factors, heritage, landscape, soils, water, and ecology. The course uses case study examples and policies to guide students through the process.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: GEOG 3200K and BIOL 1108K, or permission of Instructor

Hours:
3

GISC 4020K��-��GIS for Environmental Studies

This course explores the principles and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology in Environmental Studies. It examines the accuracy and applications of geographic information including spatial analysis, data management, data visualization and data retrieval specific to the disciplines involved in Environmental Studies. Emphasis is placed on the interdisciplinary nature of GIS and its relevance to social sciences and society. The course involves hands-on personal computer exercises with a focus on real-world problem solving.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: GISC 3011K and ENST 2030, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

Build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as:

College of Sciences and Mathematics Study Abroad Programs (Belize, Costa Rica, South Africa, Botswana)

Cultural experience and research and field techniques on conservation of landscapes and biodiversity in South Africa and Botswana

Field experience in tropical coral reefs and ecosystems in Belize

Field experience, local sustainability farming practices, cultural interaction in tropical cloud forest in Costa Rica

Agriculture
Lead grassroots efforts to fight hunger in a changing world. Agricultural Volunteers work with small-scale farmers and families to increase food security and production and adapt to climate change while promoting environmental conservation practices. They introduce farmers to techniques that prevent soil erosion, reduce the use of harmful pesticides, and replenish the soil. They work alongside farmers on integrated projects that often combine vegetable gardening, livestock management, agroforestry, and nutrition education.
Health Sector Courses Information

Take three courses from one of these areas. The links go to the listing in the academic catalog or program page.

Biology

Botany

Recommended Health Sector Course

BIOL 3321K��-��General Botany

A study of the morphology, anatomy, photosynthesis, respiration, water relations, and ecology of plants. Course includes laboratory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 1108K with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
4

BIOL 4000K��-��Entomology

A study of the general taxonomy, morphology, ecology, evolution, collection and preservation of insects. Course includes laboratory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 1108K

Hours:
4

BIOL 4020K��-��Mammalogy

The identification, classification, ecology and distribution of North American mammals. Course includes laboratory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: 4 hours of 3000-level BIOL coursework

Hours:
4

BIOL 4310K��-��Plant Taxonomy

An introductory plant taxonomy course using local vascular plants to teach principles of plant systematics. Course includes laboratory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 3321K

Hours:
4

BIOL 4311��-��Botany Field Study

A study of vascular plants via a required multi-day field experience. Students are expected to pay a portion of the expenses.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 3321K

Hours:
2

BIOL 4340K��-��Plant Physiology

An in-depth study of the physiology of higher plants, ranging from processes at the cellular to the whole plant level. Topics include plant-water relationships, mineral nutrition, transport, photosynthesis, metabolism, signal transduction, growth and development, environmental responses, hormones and abiotic stresses. Course includes laboratory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: BIOL 3321K

Hours:
4

BIOL 4900��-��Internship in Biology

Employment experience in Biological Sciences with an approved agency.��Three hours of Internship can be applied toward fulfilling the major requirement of Biology.
��

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: BIOL 1107K and BIOL 1108K

Hours:
3

BIOL 4901��-��Internship in Biology

Employment experience in the Biological Sciences with an approved agency. Three hours of Internship can be applied toward fulfilling the major requirement of Biology.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: BIOL 1107K and BIOL 1108K

Hours:
6

Build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as:

Working with a large-scale or family-run business involving vegetable gardening, farming, nursery work, tree planting or care, urban forestry, landscaping, livestock care and management, or fish cultivation and production

Teaching or tutoring the public in environmental or agricultural issues/activities

Working on the business management or marketing side of a commercial farm

Volunteer with the Appalachian Studies Center and the Hometown Harvest Hoop House

Youth in Development
Empower the next generation of change makers. Volunteers work with youth in communities on projects that promote engagement and active citizenship, including gender awareness, employability, health and HIV/AIDS education, environmental awareness, sporting programs, and info technology.
Recommended Youth in Development Sector Courses

Take three courses from this area. The links go to the listing in the academic catalog or program page.

Community Development

Recommended youth in development sector courses

SOWK 2000��-��Introduction to Social Work

This course provides an introduction to the profession of social work, including the various fields of practice and current issues facing the profession.

Hours:
3

SOCI 1160��-��Introduction to Social Problems

This course is a theoretical and empirical analysis of selected current social problems, their social and cultural causes, consequences, and various proposed solutions. It also examines the interconnectedness of local, national, and global problems.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

SOCI 2000��-��Introduction to Social Science Research Methods

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the diverse research methods used in the Social Sciences, including their strengths and weaknesses, and conveys the necessary practical skills required for their application. Students are taught how to analyze social and political phenomena in a rigorous and scientific manner, requiring an understanding of research design. Students learn how to discriminate among theories, pose proper research questions, construct a relevant hypothesis, make valid causal inferences, operationalize concepts, and test hypotheses. As a result of taking the course students are able to critically evaluate both quantitative and qualitative research studies and utilize data collection techniques involving questionnaires, observation and interviews, as well as database material. The course also examines the ethical principles involved in social science research and develops the skills required for both written and oral dissemination of research results. Credit toward meeting graduation requirements will only be granted for completion of SOCI 2000.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1101 and ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

SOCI 2100��-��Constructions of Difference

In this course, we critically examine the social construction of difference, focusing on race, class, gender and sexuality. These constructions are pivotal and interesting concepts in the analysis of social and economic inequality, laying a foundation for further investigation and insight in advanced sociology courses. The course spotlights the involvement of social institutions in the construction process and how the consequences create systems of inequality that privilege few while oppressing many.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1101 and ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

HSDA 3110��-��Diversity and Social Justice

Introduces students to the historical context of diversity and social justice and their relationship to human services delivery systems, with a focus on oppression and privilege as manifested in societal systems and forces that influence their development and continuation. Diversity and Social Justice introduces the human services student to the wide range of individuals who may be recipients of services and care in agency settings. We will acknowledge and explore the statuses and conditions that promote or limit human functioning. The course will cover topics including socioeconomic class, racial and ethnic inequality, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religious differences, physical and mental disabilities, chemical dependencies, aging, and delinquency/crime.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1160 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

HSDA 3140��-��Service Delivery in Community and Local Settings

This course focuses on organizing, advocacy, and social change in relation to community development. Students will explore how communities develop and change. Particular emphasis will be placed on theories of social change and practical tools for creating directed social change within a community context. Important themes include diversity, community organization, power, empowerment, and transformative social change through local and global activism.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: HSDA 2100 with a grade of C or higher, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

HSDA 3201��-��Field Practicum I

This course involves the practical application of knowledge and experiences gained in HSDA 2200. Students will work with the course instructor to integrate prior skills and knowledge through experiential learning. Students are expected to complete 150 hours at a single designated agency during the semester. Field Practicum courses must be taken sequentially. Course grading will be Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: HSDA 2200

Hours:
3

HSDA 4200��-��Field Practicum II

This course involves the practical application of knowledge and builds on the experiences gained in HSDA 3201. Students will work with the course instructor to integrate prior skills and knowledge through experiential learning. Students are expected to complete 150 hours at a single designated agency during the semester. Field Practicum courses must be taken sequentially. Course grading will be Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: HSDA 3201 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

HSDA 4201��-��Field Practicum III

This course involves the practical application of knowledge and experiences gained in HSDA 4200. Students will work with the course instructor to integrate prior skills and knowledge through experiential learning. Students are expected to complete 150 hours at a single designated agency during the semester. Field Practicum courses must be taken sequentially. Course grading will be Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: HSDA��4200

Hours:
3

Build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as:

Teaching or counseling in at-risk youth programs

Activities that involve planning, organizing, assessing community needs, counseling, and leadership, in areas such as education, youth development, health and HIV/AIDS, the environment, and/or business

Community Economic Development
Harness 21st-century tools to help communities lift themselves. Volunteers work with development banks, non governmental organizations, and municipalities to strengthen infrastructure and encourage economic opportunities in communities. They frequently teach in classroom settings and work with entrepreneurs and business owners to develop and market their products. Some Volunteers also teach basic computer skills and help communities take advantage of technologies such as e-commerce, distance learning, and more.
Recommended Community Economic Development Sector Courses

Take three courses from one of these areas. The links go to the listing in the academic catalog or program page.

or

and related majors

Recommended Community Economic Development Sector Courses

POLS 1101��-��American Government

An intensive examination of the Constitution and the three governmental divisions. The course includes a study of the national government in its relation to the states. Examples from the government of Georgia are included.

Hours:
3

POLS 2104��-��Introduction to Public Administration

An introduction to analysis of public administration and the policy making process within modern American bureaucracies. This course will focus particularly on policy implementation within public administration.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

POLS 2201��-��Intro State & Local Government

Students are introduced to the organization and functions of state and local governments in the US political system. This course will focus on the similarities and differences among the American federal, state, and local governments while examining the broader concepts of citizenship, democracy, and self-governance that exist among these levels of government. Students will understand the unique context of state and local government issues within Georgia.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

POLS 3106��-��State and Local Government

An examination of the organization and functions of the state and its political subdivisions. Wherever possible, the state government of Georgia will be studies for illustrative purposes.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
3

POLS 4104��-��Public Administration

An in-depth analysis of the main principles and practices of public administration in the United States. The course will focus on organizational theory, management principles, budgeting, personnel, and administrative leadership within modern bureaucracies.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
3

POLS 4210��-��Politics of Development

This course explores the political, economic, and social challenges of Third World development. It covers a wide range of contemporary issues affecting developing countries, and focuses especially on policies aimed at reducing poverty and underdevelopment. In a world where 840 million people are malnourished, where nearly 1.3 billion people live on less than a dollar per day, and where dozens of countries constitute 'failed states,' the development challenges faced by the Third World are unquestionably one of the most important concerns of our time.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H, and POLS 2401 or POLS 2401H (POLS 2401 can be taken as a Corequisite as well)

Hours:
3

POLS 4330��-��Public Policy

An analysis of major policy decisions and the impact of these decisions on the American political system.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
3

POLS 4485A��-��Internship in Political Science

Three hours of internship can be used toward fulfilling the major requirement in Political Science.��This course is repeatable for up to 12 hours of credit.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
3

POLS 4485B��-��Internship in Political Science

Three hours of internship can be used toward fulfilling the major requirement in Political Science.��This course is repeatable for up to 12 hours of credit.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
6

POLS 4485C��-��Internship in Political Science

Three hours of internship can be used toward fulfilling the major requirement in Political Science.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
9

BUSA 3120��-��Operations Management

This course provides an introduction to the management of operations and its related concepts. Operations is the part of business that manages the efficient transformation of inputs into output to suitably satisfy customers by providing a product, a service or a combination. Operations management is about designing, analyzing, and improving the transformation process, including procurement, production, distribution, warehousing, and retailing, with the objective of creating competitive advantage for the enterprise. The level of discussion varies from strategical to daily control of business processes.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Admission to Upper Division and MATH 1401 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

BUSA 4527��-��International Business

This course analyzes business management with regard to the increasing pressures and opportunities of globalization. It investigates the dynamics of globalization, characteristics of international markets, and theories of trade and foreign direct investment. It examines country differences with respect to their political economy, culture and ethics. Functional operations (finance, strategy, organization, production, and marketing) are presented in the context of internationalization.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Admission to Upper Division and FINC 3440, MGMT 3661, and MKTG 3700 with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

BUSA 4528��-��Travel Abroad/International Business

A course designed to introduce students to the international business environment. It includes travel abroad to observe business and cultural differences in a foreign context. The trip is supplemented with live class meetings, on-line international business lessons, and associated deliverables. Special application is required.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Admission to Upper Division and FINC 3440, MGMT 3661, and MKTG 3700 with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

BUSA 4900��-��Georgia Intern Program in Business Administration

An elective for Business Administration majors. Special application is required.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: Admission to Upper Division

Hours:
0

BUSA 4906��-��Cooperative Program in Business Administration

The co-op course is designed to bridge the gap between the academic environment and the professional environment. Co-ops provide an opportunity for students to link theory with practice in a non-academic setting and provide practical, real-world experiences which cannot be simulated in the classroom. Students will have an opportunity to experience the working world, solidify career goals, test career choices, build professional networks, and gain a better understanding of employer expectations and a clearer sense of what they still need to learn. Co-op courses will be graded according to the Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory grading system. Course is repeatable for a maximum of 12 credit hours.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Admission to Upper Division and Department Head Approval

Hours:
6

BUSA 4995��-��Strategic Management

This course is designed for business administration majors who are within two semester of graduation. It is a capstone course integrating the application of analytical skills acquired from previous courses in accounting, finance, management and marketing.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: Admission to Upper Division, FINC 3440, MGMT 3661, MKTG 3700, and either BUSA 1105, BUSA 3108, COMM 2108, or ENGL 2238, all with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

FINC 3440��-��Principles of Finance

A study of financial concepts with emphasis on understanding how the principles of financial management can be used to enhance the value of a firm. Topics include the time value of money, valuation models for bonds and stocks, the relationship of risk and rate of return, capital management fundamentals and financial statement analysis.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ECON 2106 and ACCT 2101 with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

MGMT 3661��-��Fundamentals of Management

Major emphasis in this course is devoted to planning, organizing, leading, and controlling processes to enable the effective and efficient functioning in the complex and ever changing business environment, to include at the industry, national, and international level. Through written assignments, along with other assessments, students will demonstrate their understanding of the four functions.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ACCT 2101 and either ECON 2105 or ECON 2106, all with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

MKTG 3700��-��Principles of Marketing

An introduction to marketing as a strategy for achieving organizational profit and growth objectives. The course introduces students to the fundamentals of marketing planning, identifying & understanding customers, decisions related to product, price, promotion, and distribution as influenced by evolving global, ethical, sustainable, and technological environments.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ACCT 2101 and either ECON 2105 or ECON 2106, all with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

ART 2450��-��Computer Graphics

An introduction to graphic technology and focusing on basic computer literacy for all visual arts majors. Students will explore current hardware and software for existing and emerging computer graphic technology, specifically the Adobe Creative Suite.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ART 1020 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

ART 3450��-��Introduction to Graphic Design

A foundation in the principles and practice of graphic design, which combines art and technology to communicate ideas.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ART 2450 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

ART 3500��-��Visual Literacy & Communication

A study of the theories and processes involved in making art, individual and societal responses to various art forms, and the ways in which visual forms are used as tools of communication, and means of interaction within a social environment. Students will learn how to look at, analyze, and formulate responses to art in an interactive classroom environment. Subjects will include the evolution and uses of art as a communicative tool, and the development of art media and techniques such as printmaking, photography, cinema, magazines, newspapers, and the Internet.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ENGL 1102 or ART 2510 and ART 2520 with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

ART 3503��-��History of Graphic Design

This course examines the history and evolution of graphic design from its beginning to the present. The invention of writing, the manuscript, the graphic renaissance in Europe, the industrial age, the modernist era, the information age and the digital revolution are explored. Changes in subject matter and stylistic concerns, in the contexts of social and political influences upon them, and the different roles and uses of typography and graphic design are discussed. Significant readings are incorporated into class discussions.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ART 2520 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

ART 4450��-��Web Design

An advanced graphic studio course focusing on creating page layouts and styling websites displayed on various devices. Students will explore the web's interactivity, responsiveness, and technical challenges and possibilities.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ART 3450 and��ART 3460

Hours:
3

ART 4451��-��Designed Systems

An advanced graphic visualization course focusing on the practical applications of graphic design to audiences.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ART 3450 and ART��3460 with grades of C or better

Hours:
3

ART 4850��-��Internship in Visual Art

Students apply skills acquired through academic study in a performance-based context. Students enrolled in this course are generally assigned to work with an outside agency or institution through a cooperative agreement originated by the �� Department of Visual Arts and the Office of Career Services. This course is repeatable for up to 9 credit hours.

Hours:
3

CSCI 3000��-��Web Programming

An introduction to various techniques in client- and server- side scripting; the topics include dynamic web pages, CGI, interpreted vs. compiled code and server-side includes. The course also covers recent trends in world wide web standards electronic commerce applications and web services. It may cover the setup of web servers, and web-based database applications. The course requires a substantial amount of programming.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 1301 or CSCI 1301K with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

CSCI 3100��-��Computer Organization/Architecture

The course covers both the organizational and architectural levels of computer systems. The topics of the course include instruction sets, addressing, microprogramming, memory, I/O interrupts and data paths. Microcomputers, multiprocessors, pipeline computers, supercomputers, CISC and RISC architectures will also be covered.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 1302 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

CSCI 3300��-��Software Engineering

This course covers the fundamentals of software engineering principles to support software requirements, design, coding, and testing. The course will include a capstone project providing students the opportunity to practice the different phases of software development.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 3200 or CSCI 3410 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

CSCI 3410��-��Databases

This course covers the fundamental analysis and design techniques of database systems. Topics include an introduction to database systems, conceptual data modeling��and database design, the relational data model and SQL, database programming techniques, database design theory and normalization, and selected topics in advanced databases.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 1302 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

CSCI 3660��-��Mobile Application Development

This project-oriented course examines the principles of mobile application design and development. Topics will include user interface design; input methods; data handling; network techniques; and advanced topics such as GPS and motion sensing. Students are expected to develop a professional-quality mobile application. Projects will be deployed in real-world applications.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 1302 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

CSCI 4910A��-��Internship in Computer Science

Hands-on experience in the area of computer science working in a business or organization. May be repeated for credit.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 3300 (may be taken concurrently)

Hours:
1

CSCI 4910B��-��Internship in Computer Science

Hands-on experience in the area of computer science working in a business or organization. May be repeated for credit.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 3300 (may be taken concurrently)

Hours:
2

CSCI 4910C��-��Internship in Computer Science

The internship course is designed to bridge the gap between the academic environment and the professional environment. Internships provide an opportunity for students to link theory with practice in a nonacademic setting and provide practical, real-world experiences which cannot be simulated in the classroom.��Students will have an opportunity to experience the working world, solidify career goals, test possible career choices, build professional networks, and gain a better understanding of employer expectations and a clearer sense of what they still need to learn.

The following restrictions apply: A student who is currently employed may not seek internship credit with the same employer. A student cannot receive retroactive academic credit for a past internship experience. Prerequisites are enforced for the internship course and cannot be taken simultaneously with the internship course unless expressly stated as a corequisite.

Proposed internship experiences and internship responsibilities must be approved in advance by your Department Head. The credit worthiness of an internship will be judged by whether the duties, activities and skills/knowledge required for the internship closely approach those of a practicing business professional. The approval process takes time. Students must apply for academic credit well in advance of registration deadlines. The process requires the student to submit a typed internship description from the employer detailing substantial responsibilities. Finally, the internship must result in a minimum of 150 verifiable work hours.

Internship courses may be repeated for up to 6 total hours.

Internship courses will be graded according to the following grading system: satisfactory/unsatisfactory.

��

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: CSCI 3300

Hours:
3

ENTR 3010��-��Creativity, Innovation & Entrepreneurial Mindset

This course develops the entrepreneurial mindset of students to enable them to add value in various contexts through critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and innovation while encouraging initiative, adaptability and self-direction. The course employs an active classroom approach to help students cultivate and grow their creative and entrepreneurial capacities, understand how to apply these skills to various problems, and ultimately develop a solution. The course focuses on creativity and innovation within corporate, social and entrepreneurial contexts. Students learn creative tools and applications to assist in opportunity development, recognition and evaluation process by examining how people, industry, and social environments interact to identify, and shape creative and innovative alternatives and opportunities.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: Minimum of 60 earned credit hours

Hours:
3

ENTR 3020��-��Entrepreneurial Startup & Process

This course is an introduction to entrepreneurship and new venture startup exploration that leads to new ventures. An emphasis is placed on entrepreneurship as a process that can be managed and applied in any organizational setting or context. The Lean Startup and Customer Development methodologies are employed to develop an idea into a proof of concept. The Business Model Canvas is integrated into the course as a part of the idea to proof of concept process. The course culminates in a fast pitch challenge presentation.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: Minimum of 60 earned credit hours

Hours:
3

ENTR 3030��-��Launching a New Venture

In this course students develop a viable business plan to launch a new business. The course is a critical component for students who desire to start their own businesses and culminates with student teams pitching their business plan before a panel of judges selected from financial professionals, successful entrepreneurs and other business professionals. The class is very hands-on, providing the opportunity to apply learned topics. This course is exempt from the MCCB Admission to Upper Division restriction.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENTR 3020 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

ENTR 3040��-��Entrepreneurial Finance

This course focuses on understanding funding and financial management for various types of entrepreneurial ventures from inception through various stages of growth and on through harvest. Teaching methods will include case studies targeted at specific learning objectives, guest speakers such as entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, banker and legal professionals. This course is exempt from the MCCB Admission to Upper Division restriction.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENTR 3020 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

ENTR 4021��-��Social Entrepreneurship

The objective of this course is to build entrepreneurial skills required to identify opportunities and craft innovative responses to social issues locally, nationally and internationally. This course is exempt from the MCCB Admission to Upper Division restriction.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENTR 3020 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

BUSA 4903��-��Georgia Intern Program in Business Administration

The internship course is designed to bridge the gap between the academic environment and the professional environment. Internships provide an opportunity for students to link theory with practice in a nonacademic setting and provide practical, real-world experiences which cannot be simulated in the classroom.��Students will have an opportunity to experience the working world, solidify career goals, test possible career choices, build professional networks, and gain a better understanding of employer expectations and a clearer sense of what they still need to learn.

The following restrictions apply: A student who is currently employed may not seek internship credit with the same employer. A student cannot receive retroactive academic credit for a past internship experience. Prerequisites are enforced for the internship course and cannot be taken simultaneously with the internship course unless expressly stated as a co-requisite.

Proposed internship experiences and internship responsibilities must be approved in advance by your Department Head. The credit worthiness of an internship will be judged by whether the duties, activities and skills/knowledge required for the internship closely approach those of a practicing business professional. The approval process takes time. Students must apply for academic credit well in advance of registration deadlines. The process requires the student to submit a typed internship description from the employer detailing substantial responsibilities. Finally, the internship must result in a minimum of 120 verifiable work hours.

Internship courses will be graded according to the following grading system: satisfactory/unsatisfactory.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites:

For Finance majors: Admission to Upper Division and FINC 3440

For Management majors: Admission to Upper Division

For General Marketing majors: Admission to Upper Division

For the Digital Marketing concentration: Admission to Upper Division, MKTG 3760 and internship responsibilities preferably with a focus in digital marketing

For the Professional Selling concentration: Admission to Upper Division, MKTG 3720 and internship responsibilities preferably with a focus in sales

Hours:
3

COMM 3050��-��Advanced Intercultural Communication

Exploring the foundations, processes, and applications of communicating in intercultural contexts, this course emphasizes intercultural theory and research on intercultural power and contexts, identity, language, and nonverbal codes, understanding intercultural transactions, impacts of popular culture, and managing intercultural conflict.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: COMM 1100 or permission of the instructor

Hours:
3

COMM 3100��-��Advanced Public Communication

This course will extend the students' knowledge of public communication by giving them advanced practice. Emphasis will be placed on developing and demonstrating advanced presentational skills in various public speaking contexts, such as community presentations, press conferences, media interviews and persuasive speaking to hostile audiences. In addition to developing platform speaking skills, emphasis is placed on critical evaluation and the situational/historical/cultural determinants of effective discourse.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: COMM 1100 and COMM 1110

Hours:
3

COMM 3200��-��Principles of Conflict Resolution

This course examines the nature of conflict in various organizational and interpersonal contexts, surveys major theories of conflict resolution, and develops students' abilities to apply models of conflict resolution, including mediation, negotiation, and collaborative problem solving.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: COMM 1100 or permission of the instructor

Hours:
3

COMM 3400��-��Business & Professional Communication

This course focuses on practical and theoretical elements of communication in today's culturally diverse business setting. Students will learn communication processes and basic concepts of interpersonal, group teambuilding, and organizational communication. Assignments include interviews, corporate branding, business reports, and sales presentations.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: COMM 1100

Hours:
3

COMM 4200��-��Leadership Communication

This course focuses on communication competence in leadership. In this class, students will learn the purposes, strategies, structures, and language of leadership. As well, students will gain knowledge of the role communication plays in the various types of leadership students will experience and enact during the course of their lives. Finally, students will both learn and practice the skills needed for effective leadership in a number of different organizational, cultural and corporate settings.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: COMM 3510

Hours:
3

BUSA 3108��-��Managerial and Business Communication

A management-oriented course emphasizing theories and channels of communication, semantic problems and other barriers to effective communication with emphasis on both oral and written communication. Students apply their knowledge of theory to real-world business situations. This combination of theory and application develops knowledge and skills necessary for success in corporate communication environments. Credit will not be awarded for more than one of the following courses: BUSA 2108, ENGL 2238, or BUSA 3108. BAS students must take BUSA 3108.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ACCT 2101, ENGL 1102, and either ECON 2105 or ECON 2106, all with grades of C or higher

Hours:
3

Build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as:

Working with businesses, organizations, or cooperatives in accounting, finance, microfinance, management, project management, budgeting, or marketing

Starting and running your own business or other entrepreneurial activity

Training others in computer literacy, maintenance, and repair

Website design or online marketing

Founding or leading a community- or school-based organization

Foreign Language Skills

Working across cultures often entails verbal and nonverbal languages distinct from your own. Building foreign language skills is thus a second key component of the PCPP curriculum.

PCPP minimum language course requirements align with those needed by applicants to the Peace Corps itself, which vary by linguistic region.

Latin America
Spanish-speaking countries typically require two 2000-level intermediate Spanish courses.

SPAN 2001��-��Intermediate Spanish I

Continued development and reinforcement of the fundamentals of grammar, vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed to increase linguistic and cultural proficiency through the situational use of the language and the study of authentic materials from Spanish-speaking regions. Language laboratory and online assignments. Class conducted in Spanish.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SPAN 1002

Hours:
3

Notes:
Not open to students who have credit in SPAN 2002 or higher or to native speakers

SPAN 2002��-��Intermediate Spanish II

Continued development and reinforcement of the fundamentals of grammar, vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed to increase linguistic and cultural proficiency through the situational use of the language and the study of authentic materials from Spanish-speaking regions. Language laboratory and online assignments. Class conducted in Spanish.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SPAN 2001 or placement by the Department of Modern Languages

Hours:
3

West Africa
French-speaking African countries typically require 2000-level intermediate French courses. (or in some cases, any Romance Language)

FREN 2001��-��Intermediate French I

Continued development and reinforcement of the fundamentals of grammar, vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, speaking, reading and writing. Designed to increase linguistic and cultural proficiency through the situational use of the language and the study of authentic materials from French-speaking regions. Language laboratory and online assignments. Class conducted in French.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: FREN 1002 or placement by the Department of Modern Languages

Hours:
3

FREN 2002��-��Intermediate French II

Continued development and reinforcement of the fundamentals of grammar, vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed to increase linguistic and cultural proficiency through the situational use of the language and the study of authentic materials from French-speaking regions. Language laboratory and online assignments. Class conducted in French.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: FREN 2001 or placement by the Department of Modern Languages

Hours:
3

Everywhere Else

The Peace Corps has no explicit language requirements for individuals applying to serve in most other countries. However, you will still likely learn and utilize another language during service, so it is only helpful to have taken at least one foreign language class.

If you are a strong native speaker and hope to serve in a country that speaks your same language, you can skip this requirement.

Intercultural Competence

peace corps member holding up young child

Engaging thoughtfully and fluidly across cultures begins with one’s own self-awareness. With this learning objective, you will deepen your cultural agility through a mix of three introspective courses in which you learn about others while reflecting upon your own self in relation to others. The goal is for you to build your capacity to shift perspective and behavior around relevant cultural differences.

You must take at least one of these courses.

Required Core Courses
DVRS 1503��-��Studies in Diversity Issues

An overview of issues involving diversity and multiculturalism from a variety of perspectives and academic disciplines. The course features specific global issues that are investigated through a cross-national comparative study and which may differ each semester.

Hours:
3

ANTH 1102��-��Introduction to Anthropology

Anthropology is the holistic study of what it means to be human. Four subfields are surveyed: biological anthropology (the study of human evolution, diversity, and environmental adaptation), archaeology (the study of prehistory, human migrations, emergence of agriculture, and complex societies), linguistic anthropology (comparative studies of human languages and linguistic behavior and animal communication systems), and sociocultural anthropology (the study of cultures in both complex and small-scale societies; human cognition and behavior in cross-cultural contexts).

Hours:
3

COMM 1503��-��Intercultural Communication

This course introduces the student to the study of communication, culture, and communication between cultures in our global society. Students will become aware of the ability of culture to shape and modify personal views or reality through differing perceptions of world view, family experiences, history, and verbal/nonverbal message systems. How diverse cultures communicate in business, educational, health settings and conflict resolution will be addressed.

Hours:
3

ENGL 2111��-��World Literature I

This course surveys world��literatures��from the beginnings through the seventeenth century. Students read, analyze, and interpret��diverse��texts within their historical and social contexts,��considering the aesthetic, cultural, and ethical values they reflect.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 1102 or ENGL 1102H with a grade of C or higher.��eCore sections also require the completion of the eCore Introduction Quiz.

Hours:
3

ENGL 2112��-��World Literature II

This course surveys world literatures from the eighteenth century to the present. Students read, analyze, and interpret diverse texts within their historical and social contexts, considering the aesthetic, cultural, and ethical values they reflect.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 1102 or ENGL 1102H with a grade of C or higher.��eCore sections also require the completion of the eCore Introduction Quiz.

Hours:
3

ENST 2030��-��Environmental Studies & Sustainability

A seminar course that addresses the social, political, and cultural aspects of human ecological problems. As an introduction to the field of Environmental Studies, it examines both past and current human activities and their influence on our species and the physical environment, and it explores the place of cultural elements in creating and solving environmental problems.

Hours:
3

GEOG 1102��-��World Regional Geography

An introduction to the major themes of contemporary world regional geography focusing on a geographic examination of the cultures, politics and histories of the major human regions of the world. The course will examine the ways in which environment, culture, politics, history, and economics interact to create unique geographical regions. It will introduce the major issues addressed in the process of globalization in the context of history, geography, political economy, environment, culture and weigh the pros and cons of this important process. This course may be used to fulfill the elective requirements of Core IMPACTS Institution or Social Sciences.

Hours:
3

HIST 1111��-��World History I

A survey of World History to early modern times.

Hours:
3

HIST 1112��-��World History II

A survey of World History from early modern times to the present.

Hours:
3

PHIL 2200��-��Ethics from a Global Perspective

This course introduces the student to the major, traditional ethical theories, their foundational arguments, strengths, weaknesses, and meaning for life as lived. The course explores both the major Western and Non-western ethical theories.

Hours:
3

POLS 1153��-��Global Citizenship

This course will introduce students to regions of the world, global institutions, international politics, and engage students in current debates of global significance. Politics will be emphasized as an important factor influencing the issues studied and as being a part of solutions. Students will be encouraged to place themselves within a global community, and to realize their actions have global impact and to think critically about global issues from multiple perspectives.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

POLS 2401��-��Global Issues

An analysis of the basic forces which govern the behavior of nations in their relations with one another. This study of world power conflicts, diplomacy and international cooperation is designed to acquaint the student with the basic issues and areas of conflict among the nation-states of the contemporary world.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

HIST 2860��-��History of World Religions

This course will examine the historical development of the major religions of the world and their contributions to world civilization. HIST 2860 is cross-listed with RELG 2860.

Hours:
3

Cross-listed
RELG 2860

RELG 2860��-��History of World Religions

This course will examine the historical development of the major religions of the world, and their contributions to world civilization. Cross-listed with HIST 2860.

Hours:
3

Cross-listed
HIST 2860

SOCI 1160��-��Introduction to Social Problems

This course is a theoretical and empirical analysis of selected current social problems, their social and cultural causes, consequences, and various proposed solutions. It also examines the interconnectedness of local, national, and global problems.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

You can choose two more from the Core Courses above or two other courses from the electives list to complete your intercultural competence requirement.

Elective Courses
ENGL 3350��-��Postcolonial World Literature

The course will study the question of identity-both personal and national-in postcolonial works around the globe. Postcolonial literature occurs at different times for different countries (and cultures), but the majority of the literature will be in the modern era. After a brief overview of the colonial mindset, including such concepts as mimicry and the Other, the course will offer students an understanding of how countries, cultures, and individuals approach the formation of an identity that is both separate from and linked to the former colonizer.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: ENGL 2050, ENGL 2230 and one ENGL 2100-level literature or ENGL 2200-level creative writing course, each with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

POLS 4210��-��Politics of Development

This course explores the political, economic, and social challenges of Third World development. It covers a wide range of contemporary issues affecting developing countries, and focuses especially on policies aimed at reducing poverty and underdevelopment. In a world where 840 million people are malnourished, where nearly 1.3 billion people live on less than a dollar per day, and where dozens of countries constitute 'failed states,' the development challenges faced by the Third World are unquestionably one of the most important concerns of our time.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H, and POLS 2401 or POLS 2401H (POLS 2401 can be taken as a Corequisite as well)

Hours:
3

POLS 4160��-��Gender & Politics

The study of gender and politics explores concepts of power found in governance. The course will examine how political power, institutions and actions can be gendered by using critical and analytical gender theories. Gender theories will be applied to an examination of gender equality in society, economics, and politics.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
3

EDUC 2120��-��Exploring Sociocultural Perspectives on Diversity

This course is designed for students to examine (a) the nature and function of culture; (b) the development of individual identities and group cultural identity; (c) systems of privilege, power, and oppression; (d) definitions and implications of diversity; (e) the influences of sociocultural factors on learning, development, and pedagogy; and (f) the foundations and applications of social justice education.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisites: EDUC 2110 and ENGL 1101 with grades of C or higher (an overall GPA of 2.5 is recommended)

Hours:
3

HSDA 3110��-��Diversity and Social Justice

Introduces students to the historical context of diversity and social justice and their relationship to human services delivery systems, with a focus on oppression and privilege as manifested in societal systems and forces that influence their development and continuation. Diversity and Social Justice introduces the human services student to the wide range of individuals who may be recipients of services and care in agency settings. We will acknowledge and explore the statuses and conditions that promote or limit human functioning. The course will cover topics including socioeconomic class, racial and ethnic inequality, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religious differences, physical and mental disabilities, chemical dependencies, aging, and delinquency/crime.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1160 with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

MDST 4200��-��Diversity in the Media

Discussion and examination of diversity issues and representations of social groups by news and entertainment media. Areas covered will include gender, class, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, and people with disabilities. Social, cultural, economic, psychological, and other effects of the representations of these groups will be considered. Media examined will include news media as well as movies, video games, television, magazines, and web sites. Ethical problems for media producers in portraying social groups will be considered.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: COMM 2900, COMM 2050, or permission of instructor

Hours:
3

HIST 3101��-��History of Social Reform in the United States, 1880-2000

In this course, we will examine selected major trends, concepts, and facts in the history of social reform in the United States from the Progressive Era to the present. Upon completion of this class, students will be able to: 1) describe and explain the evolution of social reform policies from the Progressive Era to the present; 2) describe the chronology of major reform period in the 20th century American history to the present; 3) describe and analyze the influence of various factors on social reform policies, including race, gender, ethnicity, and class; 4) describe and analyze the interaction between social movements and federal, state, and local government reform policies; 5) demonstrate effective writing, analytical thinking, and oral communication skills based on material from class assignments. (U.S. HISTORY)

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: HIST 2111 or HIST 2112

Hours:
3

SOCI 2100��-��Constructions of Difference

In this course, we critically examine the social construction of difference, focusing on race, class, gender and sexuality. These constructions are pivotal and interesting concepts in the analysis of social and economic inequality, laying a foundation for further investigation and insight in advanced sociology courses. The course spotlights the involvement of social institutions in the construction process and how the consequences create systems of inequality that privilege few while oppressing many.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1101 and ENGL 0989 (when required)

Hours:
3

SOCI 3050��-��Race and Ethnicity

This course examines racial, ethnic and cultural groups in the United States from a sociological perspective. Particular attention will be paid to the political, economic, social, historic and cultural development of race as an idea; racialized opportunity in social institutions; and the historical and economic functions of racism and discrimination, as well as their implications for a pluralistic society.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1101

Hours:
3

GNST 2140��-��Introduction to Gender Studies

This course provides a study of the concepts of gender. Through analysis of assigned texts, the class will examine gender and its relationship to economics, religion, politics, art, culture, and other areas.

Hours:
3

HIST 2140��-��Gender and Sexuality in History

This course will provide students with a background in how gender and sexuality is constructed historically around the world. The course will explore the theories of gender and sexuality as well as the concrete construction of these identities.

Hours:
3

HIST 4310��-��Gender & Sexuality of Latin America

This course explores gender including masculinity, femininity and third genders; how issues of gender and sexuality are shaped by history and shape Latin American history. (LATIN AMERICAN HISTORY)

Hours:
3

HIST 4418��-��Gender & Sexuality in the Middle East

This course examines the relationship between genders as well as the construction of gender and sexuality in the Middle East and about the Middle East. We discuss the different forms of sexuality, the meaning of sexuality, the roles of men and women, and the construction of masculinity and femininity in this class. (MIDDLE EAST, WORLD).

Hours:
3

POLS 4160��-��Gender & Politics

The study of gender and politics explores concepts of power found in governance. The course will examine how political power, institutions and actions can be gendered by using critical and analytical gender theories. Gender theories will be applied to an examination of gender equality in society, economics, and politics.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: POLS 1101 or POLS 1101H

Hours:
3

PSYC 3520��-��Human Sexuality

This course focuses on biological, psychological, and social aspects of human sexual functioning.�� Emphasis is given to empirical findings and their personal, interpersonal, and social implications.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: PSYC 1101 or PSYC 1101H with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

SOCI 3520��-��The Social Construction of Sexuality

A sociological investigation of the social, cultural, and historical construction of sexual knowledge, identity, behavior, and desire.

Hours:
3

SOCI 3800��-��Sociology of Gender

This course considers issues of gender from a sociological perspective. Gender plays an important part of our lives as individuals, but also structures life within U.S. society. We will focus on gender socialization, practices, and inequalities in the contemporary United States. Specifically, we will examine the influence of gender in interpersonal relationships, at work, in education, in families, and in other areas of social life. Although this course is primarily about gender, we will examine how masculinities and femininities are shaped by other social factors such as race, class and sexual orientation.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: SOCI 1101

Hours:
3

COMM 3050��-��Advanced Intercultural Communication

Exploring the foundations, processes, and applications of communicating in intercultural contexts, this course emphasizes intercultural theory and research on intercultural power and contexts, identity, language, and nonverbal codes, understanding intercultural transactions, impacts of popular culture, and managing intercultural conflict.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: COMM 1100 or permission of the instructor

Hours:
3

ENGL 2160��-��Multicultural American Literature

This course surveys the diverse literary cultures of the United States, especially the literary cultures of national, social, or ethnic groups that have traditionally been marginalized. Students read, analyze, and interpret diverse literary texts within their cultural and historical contexts, considering the aesthetic and ethical values they reflect.

Prerequisite/Corequisite:
Prerequisite: ENGL 1102 or ENGL1102H with a grade of C or higher

Hours:
3

NURS 3580��-��Transcultural Communication in Nursing

A course designed to help students acquire the skills necessary to communicate effectively in today's multicultural society. Classroom activities will focus on improving the student's ability to recognize and overcome cultural biases, learning about different styles of communication and developing transcultural communication skills and interacting with others in an ethical, caring manner.

Hours:
2

Professional and Leadership Development

President Obama greeting peace corps member

Peace Corps service and similar international development work opportunities are highly professional and selective. PCPP requires three specific activities that will strengthen your candidacy for the Peace Corps (or any other professional endeavor):

Have your resume critiqued by someone in Career Services.
Attend a workshop or class on interview skills at Career Services.
Develop at least one significant leadership experience and be prepared to discuss it thoughtfully. For example, organizing a campus event, leading a work or volunteer project, or serving on the executive board of a student organization.

Peace Corps Resources

Images courtesy of the Peace Corps Media Library

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