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NCU Catalog - April 2019 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
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Course Codes and Course Length
Course Codes
NCU course codes include a course prefix and number. The course prefix identifies the content area of a course and the number identifies the course-level (e.g., Undergraduate, Master’s. etc.). Courses in this catalog section are list by School and content area in numerical order.
Example: The course prefix “ACC” indicates Accounting content
Course Numbering
Course numbering used at NCU is as follows:
| Undergraduate |
1000 to 4999 |
| Master’s |
5000 to 6999;
5000-8 to 6999-8 |
| Doctoral and Advance Studies Certificates |
7000 to 8999;
7000-8 to 8999-8 |
| Doctoral Sequence Courses |
9000 to 9799;
9901A-D to 9904A-D
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Course Length
Course length varies by course and program. Please refer to the course listing in this catalog to determine the length of a specific course.
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Psychology |
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PSY-6114 - Psychological Tests and Measurements Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course provides students with a fundamental background in assessment and measurement as well as the ability to evaluate the psychometric strengths and weaknesses of individual psychological tests and measurements, using both conceptual and applied. This course focuses on psychometric principles (e.g. validity and reliability), test and items analysis, test construction, and applications of psychological testing in a wide variety of settings.
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PSY-6111 - Death and Dying Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on psychosocial, cultural, behavioral, and ethical issues related to death and dying. Topics include attitudes toward and preparation for death, hospice and palliative care, and end of life decisions. The importance of religion, rites, and rituals in grieving will be discussed. The types and expression of grief throughout the lifecycle also will be examined.
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PSY-6110 - Clinical Survey of Substance Abuse and Dependence Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will cover the broad scope of substance use and dependence, and its impact on individuals, families, and society. This includes the costs of substance misuse in terms of lives lost, health problems, and financial losses. Students will explore theories and models of both etiology and treatment of substance use disorders, including the exploration of a variety of both legal and illicit substances, as well as the physiological and psychological processes of dependence. Prescription drug abuse, abuse of over the counter (OTC) drugs, and dietary supplements will also be covered, and gender and diversity issues are highlighted.
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PSY-6109 - Career and Lifestyle Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course focuses on the theory and skills needed to provide basic career and lifestyle counseling. During this course, students will explore the importance of careers and lifestyle from a developmental point of view. Research and measurement, which are key to career counseling, will also be evaluated, as well as various career counseling strategies and ethics required in this field. The students will have the opportunity, using scenarios and pilot proposals to exercise skills in career counseling.
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PSY-6107 - Adult Psychopathology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores the concept of psychopathology and perspectives on what distinguishes mental health from mental illness and how research and assessment is applied to this field. Various diagnostic categories will be examined as well as the origins, prevention, and interventions related to psychopathology.
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PSY-6105 - Capstone Course: Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The Capstone course in Psychology is an opportunity to demonstrate a range of professional competencies and communication skills, reflecting the knowledge, critical thinking, sensitivity to ethics and diversity, and appreciation of research that has been acquired during the MA program. The Capstone course culminates in a review of the evidence based practices related to a specific issue of interest to the student in Psychology.
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PSY-6104 - Positive Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The course focuses on the positive psychology principles of positive subjective experience, positive traits, and positive institutions. It is an emerging shift within the field of psychology. The emphasis includes a scientific investigation of the latest research of positive psychology focusing on positive human strengths such as optimism, gratitude, hope, and justice. The course offers an opportunity for theoretical exploration and practical application.
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PSY-6103 - Human Communication: Interviewing Skills Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Verbal and nonverbal communication and listening skills, as well as the ethics that apply to communication are covered in this course. Communication in the workplace, between couples, and across cultures are also key topics of this course. The student will think critically about what makes public speaking influential and also study the cutting edge in communication, electronic mediated communication.
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PSY-6102 - Multicultural Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course prepares the student to deal with essential issues in a multicultural society from both an individual and professional standpoint. Topics to be covered include the emergence of multicultural psychology, considerations for psychological research and testing, and how multiculturalism promotes a plurality of world views and communication styles. The formation and impact of stereotypes and prejudices in the light of establishing and maintaining a cultural identity in a multicultural society will also be examined. Finally, the student will become familiar with differences in access and views on physical and mental health services in different cultures.
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PSY-5404 - Tests and Measurements in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces students to the basic theories, applications, and issues of psychological testing and assessment. Students will review the historical, professional, and legal context of utilizing tests and measurements in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Specifically, students will explore the purpose, development, application, and evaluation of psychological tests as applied to employee selection, placement, and performance appraisal. Students will also examine special topics related to use of psychological tests in the workplace, including: the merits of cognitive ability, personality, and vocational testing, technological advancements in testing, and the testing of special populations.
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PSY-5303 - Behavioral Nutrition Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces the student to evidence-based knowledge on the interaction between nutrition, behavior, and mental health. Various theoretical perspectives on nutrition and health-related behavior change will be introduced. Key behavioral nutrients are identified and the current research on how these nutrients interact with brain functioning and mental health will be assessed. Ethical issues in applying sound scientific knowledge on behavioral nutrition to diverse gender, ethno-cultural and age groups will also be addressed.
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PSY-5302 - Stress and Coping Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines sources, manifestations, and coping models for stress. A special emphasis is put on the role of thought and cognition in mediating stress. Students will develop an array of tools for dealing with stress in themselves and others.
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PSY-5110 - Applied Statistics Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces the graduate student to the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics and inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts and helping students to understand statistical methodologies used in psychology, and, more generally, to develop a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.
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PSY-5109 - Theories of Personality Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will examine, compare and contrast key personality theories. Drawing on classic and contemporary sources, students will consider Freudian, post-Freudian, behaviorism, and social learning theories. Students will also examine more contemporary theories on personality, such as those put forth by cognitive, humanistic, and positive psychology.
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PSY-5108 - Cognitive and Affective Basis of Behavior Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will examine the foundational theories related to cognitive and emotional influences on behavior. Themes to be traced will include process and application of memory, perception, language, problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity. The course will examine how emotion impacts cognition as well as the interactive characteristics of human cognition and affective functioning.
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PSY-5107 - Research Design Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The focus of this course is on the fundamentals of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to psychological research. Students will gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach, and how these methods apply to the student’s area of research interest. This course also provides students with background on research ethics and skills in conducting literature reviews and scholarly writing.
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PSY-5106 - Biopsychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Biopsychology explores the relation between the function and structure of physiology, especially the brain, and psychological functioning. This course examines the divisions in biopsychology, how the brain grows, what causes it to be damaged, and how it can regenerate or be repaired. Ethical considerations related to research and developments in neuropsychology and applications of the findings of biopsychology to improve the human condition will also be raised.
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PSY-5105 - Social Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is an overview of social psychology. Specifically, this course will explore how others affect an individual’s perceptions, thoughts, emotions, and behavior. We will examine current research as well as historical social psychological concepts, and explore how social psychological constructs impact one’s world.
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PSY-5104 - Theories of Human Development and Functioning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, the student will study human development from conception through late adulthood. Students will engage in a variety of activities and applications through which they will explore, understand, and reflect upon key theories and concepts related to physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development across the lifespan. Students will develop an appreciation of the impact of the cross-disciplinary importance of the study of human development.
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PSY-5103 - Professional Ethics, Law, and Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines legal and ethical issues as they relate to the profession of psychology as practiced in any and all settings. Course content includes standards of practice, state licensing and practice regulations, research requirements, and professional ethics codes. This course is required for all graduate students in psychology. Students are encouraged to consider the issues from the perspective of their own specialty and interest, and to complete their assignments from their perspective of interest.
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PSY-5102 - History and Systems of Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course presents a history of psychology beginning with the early Greeks to the modern era. It shows how philosophy combined with developments in natural science and experimental physiology to form the major schools of psychology today. Developments in the fields of psychology will be assessed in the context of the cultures and the times in which they occurred. Psychological theories, knowledge of important individual and events, and critical thinking are emphasized.
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PSY-5101 - Foundations for Graduate Study in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is an introduction to graduate studies in Psychology. Students will have an opportunity to review psychological theories, ethical principles, and history of the field, including the emergence of diversity in the field of Psychology. In addition, graduate level skills, such as academic integrity, effective use of the Northcentral Library, comprehending complex scholarly texts and research articles, and use of APA form and style in professional communication will be introduced. Students will complete the course with a roadmap to navigate their way to completion of their educational aspirations.
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PSY-4500 - Capstone in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Prerequisites: Completion of all required PSY courses
This Capstone Course in Psychology represents a culmination of the student’s undergraduate learning. Students will integrate their knowledge and professional growth through an examination of psychology’s history, current status, and future directions. They will plot the development of psychology as a science in relation to other important historical and cultural developments. Students will also review their own progress in psychology, and make plans for their upcoming education.
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PSY-4210 - Research Project Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The student develops an individual research project, either library or field, under the direction of a faculty member. The student will choose a project that addresses the application of psychological theory to local, state, or global issues. Information literacy, search skills, and the formulation of a research paper will also be a focus of the course.
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PSY-4209 - Psychology and Health Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course examines the contributions and application of psychological principles and theories to the promotion and maintenance of health and prevention and treatment of illness. It explores the various influences on physical and mental health, including culture and lifestyles, and provides a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection. Topics covered include historical perspectives of health, stress and coping strategies, chronic illness, communicable diseases and pain management.
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PSY-4208 - Human Sexual Behavior Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students in this course will examine how social, psychological, biological, and cultural influences shape sexual practices, expressions, identities, and representations. Additional topics covered include theoretical perspectives on sexuality, issues in sex research, conception, pregnancy, and childbirth, sexuality and the life cycle, attraction, intimacy, and love, sexuality education, and legal issues related to sexuality.
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PSY-4207 - Psychology of Learning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Psychology of learning covers behavioral learning theory, including classical and operant learning. In addition, this course focuses on more contemporary theories of learning, such as cognitive, neuropsychological and technology enhanced learning.
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PSY-4206 - Critical Thinking and Personal Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course students will learn the skills of critical thinking. They will learn how to read, think, and write critically, to recognize and evaluate scholarly sources, and to make a logical argument. Students will also learn the basics of recognizing a fallacious argument from a sound argument. The skills learned in this course will serve students in their personal lives as well as help them meet their academic and career goals.
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PSY-4205 - Principles of Mental Health Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is an introduction and overview to the field of mental health counseling. Topics covered include theoretical perspectives on counseling, current trends, ethics and types of interventions. It examines the clinical, school, group, career and marriage counseling and the activities and challenges mental health counselors may find in these settings.
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PSY-4204 - Adult Aging Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Aging describes the natural process and developmental changes that occur during adulthood, a much longer span of time than during childhood and adolescence. This course provides an overview of adult developmental issues, with specific focus on the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of adult development and aging. Changes in sensory processes, cognitive functions, and social relations, among other factors, and the effects of these changes on the psychological health of the individual as well as ways of coping with these stressors will be examined. End of life issues also will be discussed.
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PSY-4203 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students in this course will explore how psychological theories and research can be applied in organizational settings to improve individual, team and organizational performance. Topics to be covered include methods of job analysis, employee selection, training, performance appraisal, work motivation, leadership and organizational culture. Students will develop an understanding of human behavior in work settings, the variables that have an impact of workers and their productive efficiency and strategies to improve productive human relations in such settings.
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PSY-4202 - Community Psychology: Prevention and Change Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course is intended to introduce students to the concepts, values, and practices of Community Psychology. Topics that will be covered include the history of community psychology, stress and social support, social intervention, primary prevention and health promotion, citizen empowerment, and community diversity. This course also will assist students in identifying traditionally underserved populations and their needs.
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PSY-4201 - Forensic Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Forensic psychology involves the application of psychological principles to the justice system, which includes law enforcement, the courts, corrections and victim services. This course presents an overview of topics that are of concern both to psychologists and members of the legal system. Concepts that will be addressed include criminal profiling, eyewitness testimony, crime scene investigation, victim services, and offender rehabilitation and treatment. Psychological principles related to this course include social interaction, cognitive processes, development issues and physiological processes.
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PSY-4200 - Overview of Substance Abuse and Addiction Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores various topics in the study of substance abuse addiction. It provides a general overview of the physical, emotional, psychological and cultural aspects of the addictive process on the individual and the various systems that impact misuse, addiction, treatment, and recovery. Topics covered for each category of drug include: general information, incidence and prevalence, mechanism of action, specific psychological and physical effects and treatment approaches.
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PSY-3012 - Evolutionary Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Evolutionary psychology is the application of Darwin’s theory of evolution to problems of mind and behavior. In this course, we examine major topics of evolutionary psychology such as adaptive design of human brain/mind, parent-child conflict, kinship, mating strategies, altruism, and cooperation, aggression/warfare, culture, and morality and religion. Students will have the opportunity to apply the concepts in this course to real life observations and scenarios.
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PSY-3011 - Introduction to Statistics in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will acquaint students with basic mathematical and statistical concepts used in psychological research. Students will study descriptive and inferential statistical techniques that are often encountered in behavioral research. The course will provide an exposure to many basic quantitative areas of data analysis in psychology, and make connections to other applications in life.
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PSY-3009 - Multicultural Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores the impact of culture and cultural diversity on behavior, research methodology, and practice in the field of psychology. It introduces theories used by cross-cultural psychologists; examines the influence of culture on personal development, perception, cognition, gender, health, emotions, communication, and personality; and studies cultural awareness and self-identity.
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PSY-3007 - Ethical and Professional Issues Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This is an introductory course in ethics, which is designed to provide a general overview of psychology and related fields and to prepare undergraduate students for more advanced coursework in the areas of ethics and law in the helping professions.
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PSY-3006 - Social Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This basic course provides a general overview of social psychology with specific focus on topics such as the balance between personality and social forces in influencing behavior, how and why we form and end relationships, and the role of the media in promoting aggression and violence. These and other topics will be examined through the lens of social psychology theory and research. Students will have a chance to reflect on the everyday application of social psychology and to learn more about themselves, and their world as a result.
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PSY-3004 - Basic Research Methods in Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course provides an overview of research design and methods in the behavioral sciences. The content focuses on core research concepts as well as how creativity and critical thinking can lead to new findings through a systematic research process. The course will also prepare the student for more advanced research courses to follow at the graduate level.
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PSY-3003 - Human Development Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course explores the physical, cognitive, moral, and emotional-social development of individuals across the life span. The student will be introduced to the basic theories of human development and how maturation, genetics, and the environment impact development throughout the lifespan.
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PSY-3002 - Abnormal Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course helps students acquire a better understanding of the origins of maladaptive behaviors and their related problems. Students will explore ethical, legal, and social issues related to abnormal psychology and have the opportunity to apply the study of abnormal to everyday life. Students will be examining factors that contribute to the development of mental disorders, and different courses of treatment for them. Finally, students will do an in depth study of a mental disorder that has significant impact on today’s society.
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PSY-2000 - Introduction to Psychology Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Psychology is the biological study of behavior and mental processes. This course introduces the student to major concepts, theories, and fields within psychology. Major topics of modern psychology will be covered including methodology, physiological psychology, development, sensation and perception, learning and memory, thinking and cognition, abnormal/clinical psychology, social psychology, positive psychology, and applied psychology. The student will have the opportunity to apply these principles to case studies and to everyday life examples. This course is a pre-requisite for all undergraduate PSY courses if not previously taken.
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Public Administration |
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PUB-8010CAGS - Public Administration Capstone Project Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The student will create a comprehensive research project that seeks to create a unique solution to a stated real or hypothetical defined topic approved by the faculty member. Research scope and definitions must be declared before the specific approved project can commence. Students will be assessed on demonstrated proficiency in designed assignments, which will culminate into a final research project.
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PUB-7022 - Executive Leadership in Public Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course you will gain executive, high-level skill in differentiating leadership from management in government and other public organizations. You will explore the theories and strategies related to leadership in the public sector and develop methods for creating a vison for public sector organizations that contributes to mission-fulfillment.
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PUB-7021 - Strategic Management in the Public Sector Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Success in the public sector requires deliberation and planning in order to support leadership roles and stewards of the public trust. In this course, you will learn and apply those skills that will help you devise plans that strengthen operations in public sector organizations. You will also learn to apply strategic management techniques and skills to public organization operations that are guided by applied and theoretical knowledge. Finally, you will incorporate strategic planning as an integral component of performance development for government and other public organizations.
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PUB-7020 - Public Management Theory Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The management of public sector organizations introduces unique challenges to leaders. In this course, you will learn to categorize management concepts and theories as they relate to public organizations and assess the applications of theory that contribute to efficiency improvements in public organizations. You will learn to develop management models designed to address public sector issues. Finally, you will formulate positions on public policy that represent rational and independent thinking in order to contribute to the success of public agencies and nonprofit organizations.
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PUB-7019 - Public Policy Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The practice of public administration operates as part of the administration-policy dichotomy. In this course, you will develop the skills needed to explain models of public policy analysis and assess how different participants and stakeholders in the policy process impact decision-making. You will also explore and learn to evaluate how court decisions shape public policy. Finally, you will examine how the media influences public policy decisions that inform the work of public administrators.
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PUB-7017 - Public Personnel Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
People who choose to work for the public good are often motivated by different incentives than employees in private organizations. There are specific challenges you will learn to navigate throughout this course including the assessment of external environmental changes related to politics and policy that influence public personnel administration. Additionally, you will learn to evaluate the legal and policy framework associated with public personnel management and to critique the practices and trends unique to public sector personnel administration. Finally, you will learn the various management strategies that enhance human capital in the public sector.
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PUB-7014 - The U.S. Federal Government Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will explore the organization, function, operation, and politics of the United States Federal government. Students will examine the foundations and historical events of federalism by assessing each of the three major branches of the federal system. Students will examine the issues of liberty and civil rights as they relate to the political process and the implementation of policies within the political process. Finally, students will evaluate the role of campaigns, media, and interest groups to determine how they influence the government.
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PUB-7012 - Technology in Public Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students examine the nature of information technology, its influence on public sector organizations and functions, and major issues stemming from information technology. The nature of information technology is better understood through an analysis of the external environment, or operating context such as e-democracy, e-participation, and e-governance. This analysis is then complemented by an evaluation of the internal environment such as leadership, organizational change, and enterprise architecture. Finally, students will evaluate major functional issues within the information technology domain such as e-procurement, e-commerce, human resources, privacy, and information security.
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PUB-7008 - Principles of Organization and Management Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The management of public sector organizations presents unique challenges to public administrators due to the nature of work done in the public good. In this course, you will learn to navigate the unique attributes of public organizations and the people who work within them. You will critique the principles and techniques of management and organizational behavior, assess the challenges of supervising public employees, and learn the levels of organizational planning in public organizations.
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PUB-7005 - Public Budgeting and Finance Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Prerequisites: Fundamental requirement in General Management
In this course you will explore budget formulation, implementation, and execution within the context of public organizations and nonprofit or non-governmental entities. By the end of this course, you will be able to explain the craft of public budgeting, assess the tools used in the budgeting process, and depict the budget process for various levels of government. Finally, you will learn to evaluate capital public budgeting and asset management within the context of the public sector.
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PUB-7004 - Urban and Regional Planning Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Prerequisites: Fundamental requirement in General Management
This is a course in urban planning with an integrated overview of the theory, processes, and practices of modern strategic planning in the public and nonprofit sectors. Students will explore contemporary strategies, techniques, and tactics with a focus on the application of theory and public orientation of policy formulation process at the local level of government. This course is designed to provide a conceptual framework and practical skills that will help students understand the role of public officials and the impact of public opinion within the broader scope of institutional planning and decision-making.
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PUB-7002 - Administrative Law Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The framers deliberately structured a constitutional republic to constrain the potential abuse of power through federalism and checks and balances. The growth of agencies and administrative law stress these notions of the limited role of government. In this course, students develop practical knowledge about administrative agencies and laws that govern their behavior, examine administrative law in the context of accountability to prevent governmental abuse of power, and apply critical thinking in a variety of case studies.
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PUB-7000 - Public Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will explain issues and challenges in managing resources in public organizations while analyzing concepts and theories that are relevant to the practice of public organizations, including government agencies and non-profit or non-governmental organizations. You will also explore the values that guide the practice of public administration. Finally, you will assess the challenges of ethical conduct and behavior as a public administrator working in a dynamic and changing environment.
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PUB-6010 - Capstone Seminar Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course provides a structure for you to engage in a capstone experience where you apply knowledge from your coursework to a contemporary issue in public administration or non-profit organizations. During this capstone, you will create a written product that demonstrates the professional knowledge you have developed throughout the program. Your product may be used to secure or enhance your professional employment in public administration fields.
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PUB-5020 - Organizational Behavior and Theory Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will explore how organizational change and culture influence public organizations, groups within these organizations, and the individuals that comprise these groups. Within this context, you will consider how laws and regulations impact organizational behavior and the role of the environment on organizational relationships.
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PUB-5018 - Survey of Research Methods Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course prepares you with the skills for applied research in public agencies and nonprofit organizations. You will be introduced to quantitative and qualitative research methods commonly employed in public administration including survey methods, case study research, descriptive research, and inferential data analysis.
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PUB-5012 - Public Policy Process Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The policy process is the manner by which public policy is formed, implemented, executed, and evaluated. It is a cyclical, never-ending process with multiple steps and evaluation points. During this course, you will learn the stages of the policy process, beginning with problem identification and agenda setting, and work through the process to the evaluation and sunsetting of public policies and programs.
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PUB-5007 - Quality Management in Public Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Quality management provides governmental structures with foundational measures and approaches for better public service delivery. In this course, you are provided the opportunity to examine the principles and methods for implementing an effective Total Quality Management system in a governmental environment. You will explore a variety of planning methods to design, manage, and sustain such a system. By differentiating between strategic planning and operational planning, you will define a vision of quality improvement and ensure those efforts are appropriate and stay on track.
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PUB-5005 - Public Budgeting and Finance Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Fiscal policy and the allocation of public funding are significant tools that presidents, governors, mayors, and legislative bodies at all levels of government manage, thus impacting the lives of all Americans. The current political and economic environment provides a unique opportunity to view budget policy as spending demands and revenue growth diverge. During this course, you will become acquainted with the administration and management of public funds for organizations in the public sector. Organizational units could be at local, state, or federal levels, as well as in the private sector in the form of nonprofit organizations.
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PUB-5004 - Public Sector Human Resources Management Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Public sector organizations are guided by somewhat different expectations and laws regarding employee engagement and performance. In this course, you will explore human resource management tools and approaches within the context of public organizations and government, the historical context of public personnel administration, and employment law standards and requirements unique to public sector organizations in order to assess the legal impact of human resource policies and law on employee performance management.
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PUB-5002 - Government and the Public Interest Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
You will be introduced to the role and challenges of the administration of public organizations within a complex and pluralist environment. You will examine the duties and obligations of a discursive democracy and explore the ways that communication tools and methods are used to integrate the views and concerns of external groups on decision making related to social issues. The course offers you the opportunity to explore legislative advocacy, lobbying, and understand how special interest groups, political interest groups, and external stakeholders influence and shape public policy.
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PUB-5000 - Introduction to Public Administration Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
You will be broadly introduced to the field of public administration. You will examine the discipline and practice from within the political, social, and organizational settings in which public administrators operate. Major emphasis is placed on examining issues at the federal, state, and local levels with particular focus on how government organizations and programs function.
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Reading Education |
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RDG-5005 - Assessment of Reading and Writing Proficiency for PK12 Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will learn to use a variety of assessment tools and practices to plan and evaluate effective reading and writing instruction. You will practice interpreting measures of performance across different sizes of groups and how data inform the development of interventions. Your analysis of instructional strategies and materials will include an exploration of local, state, national, and international trends as well as principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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RDG-5004 - Reading Comprehension Instruction and Development: Skills and Strategies for PK12 Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will gain an understanding of multiple strategies used in reading comprehension. Levels of meaning in text and textual structures in narrative and expository writing will be studied. There will be an exploration of critical-thinking skills and behaviors as well as strategies for effective studying. Finally, there will be an exploration of the wide range of resources for children’s and adolescent literature, including recently published fiction and nonfiction, as well as electronic texts and non-print materials.
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RDG-5003 - Vocabulary Instruction and Development for PK12 Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students will explore the derivations, structure, semantics, context, pragmatics, and instruction of words in English. Research and practice in developing levels of academic vocabulary will be presented. Students will explore in the principles in developing word consciousness, sight vocabulary, spelling proficiency, and developing a larger, more complex vocabulary in speaking, reading, and writing.
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RDG-5002 - The English Language: Etymology, Elements, and Implications for Instruction Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Students will receive an overview of the influences of history, geography, and culture on the development of the English language as well as information on its grammar, including phonology, morphology, syntax, phonetics, semantics, and pragmatics. There will be an examination of best practices in phonics instruction that support cognitive, cultural and linguistic differences in readers and writers.
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RDG-5001 - Essential Elements of Elementary Reading and Writing Instruction Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will study the essential elements of elementary (K-8) reading and writing instruction. Students will explore evidence-based best practices in phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Students will learn how comprehensive literacy lessons that include reading, writing, and oral language processes can improve literacy learning. Finally, students will use these best practices in literacy instruction to develop a comprehensive lesson that addresses individual student needs and keeps students motivated and engaged.
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RDG-5000 - Theoretical and Research Foundations of Language and Literacy Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will study the theoretical and research foundation of language and literacy. Students will explore current research concerning language and literacy and how that research can guide current literacy instruction and educational practice. Students will use research to inform others and promote continuous professional development.
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Special Education |
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SE-7006 - Teaching Strategies in Special Education Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will explore research-based best-practice teaching strategies for students with disabilities. Topics will include instructional methods and materials, teacher collaborative activities, Response to Intervention (RTI), and Individual Education Plan (IEP) design, implementation, and modification.
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SE-7005 - Law in Special Education Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will focus on various legal issues facing special educators and administrators. Components will include investigations of specific court cases, federal mandates, case studies, and application opportunities. Student identification, service delivery options, appropriate educational services, and family rights and privacy issues are explored. How to research court case rulings that pertain to specific states and how to locate current information on legal issues is included to assist administrators of special education programs. Preparing for due process hearings and following procedural due process are also covered.
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SE-7004 - Characteristics of Students with Intellectual Disabilities Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will focus on understanding research-based characteristics of students with intellectual disabilities. Major emphasis will be placed on the assessment and identification of intellectual disabilities among at-risk students, Individual Education Plan (IEP) development and progress monitoring for students with intellectual disabilities, understanding the educational and behavioral needs of students with intellectual disabilities, and providing effective instructional practices for students with intellectual disabilities in both inclusive and special education classrooms.
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SE-7003 - Characteristics of Students with Emotional and/or Behavioral Disorders Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will focus on understanding research-based characteristics of students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders. Major emphasis will be placed on: 1) the assessment and identification of emotional and/or behavioral disorders among at-risk students, 2) Individual Education Plan (IEP) development and progress monitoring for students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders, 3) understanding the learning needs of students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders, 4) applying strategies to address students’ emotional and/or behavioral disorders, and 5) providing effective instructional practices for students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders in both inclusive and special education classrooms.
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SE-7002 - Characteristics of Student with Specific Learning Disabilities Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will focus on understanding research-based characteristics of students with specific learning disabilities. Major emphasis will be placed on the assessment and identification of specific learning disabilities among at-risk students, Individual Education Plan (IEP) development and progress monitoring for students with specific learning disabilities, understanding the educational and behavioral needs of students with specific learning disabilities, and providing effective instructional practices for students with specific learning disabilities in both inclusive and special education classrooms.
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SE-7001 - Assessment in Special Education Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will investigate the assessment and placement process of children experiencing school performance difficulties. Students will explore individuals involved in the assessment process, testing procedures, results, and the analysis and synthesis of data to develop interpretations, report summaries, and defend educational placement decisions.
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SE-7000 - Introduction to the Exceptional Student Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will gain current in-depth research perspectives related to the instructional and administrative responsibilities of educating students with disabilities. Topics will include the history of special education, identification of students with special needs, provisions of the IDEA/IDEIA, legal issues, inclusion, transitions, classroom modifications, instructional strategies, assessment procedures, service delivery models, and educational programming.
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SE-5006 - Teaching Strategies in Special Education Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will work with teaching strategies that are useful in assisting students with mild disabilities. The latest information on Response to Intervention (RtI) is covered, with information on practical applications to promote success in the classroom. Participants will develop an understanding of how to monitor individualized education programs and select instructional strategies to improve student performance. Analyzing, selecting, and adapting strategies for students with special needs will be addressed. The ability to differentiate instruction utilizing current methods of embedded and explicit strategy instruction will also be explored.
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SE-5005 - Special Education Law Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will focus on the basics of the law and legal issues facing special educators and administrators. Topics include: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, discipline, appropriate educational decisions, procedural due process, and privacy issues.
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SE-5004 - Instructing Students with Intellectual Disabilities Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course will focus on instructing students with intellectual disabilities. Major emphasis will be placed on the assessment and identification of intellectual disabilities among at-risk students, Individual Education Plan (IEP) development and progress monitoring for students with intellectual disabilities, understanding the educational and behavioral needs of students with intellectual disabilities, and providing effective instructional practices for students with intellectual disabilities in both inclusive and special education classrooms.
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SE-5003 - Instructing Students with Emotional and/or Behavioral Disorders Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will consider the needs of PK-12 students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders. While every student is unique, there are common characteristics and learning challenges you will use to examine instructional strategies, approaches to classroom management, and implementation of accommodations such as IEPs, BIPs, and Section 504 plans that support learning among diverse students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders. By the end of this course, you will have compiled effective instructional practices applicable to inclusive and separated settings for diverse students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders.
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SE-5002 - Instructing Students with Specific Learning Disabilities Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will focus on instructing students with specific learning disabilities. Based on the common educational and behavioral needs of students with specific learning disabilities, you will examine relevant accommodations, modifications, and differentiation of instruction as well as monitoring student progress. The context of this course includes both inclusive and separated educational settings.
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SE-5001 - Assessment in Special Education Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, you will investigate the processes involved in identifying students who may need special education services. You will examine formal and informal assessments used to determine student needs and eligibility for services, including applying assessment data to the development of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and/or Section 504 plans when necessary. Your work will be guided by regulations and policies of relevant federal, state, and local education authorities.
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SE-5000 - Introduction to Students with Disabilities Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will gain current perspectives related to the instructional and administrative responsibilities of educating students with disabilities. Topics will include the history of special education, identification of students with special needs, provisions of the IDEA/IDEIA, legal issues, inclusion, transitions, classroom modifications, instructional strategies, assessment procedures, service delivery models, and educational programming.
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Social Work |
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MSW-6903 - Capstone Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The capstone course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to consolidate what has been learned in the social work program and effectively apply concepts to real-world social work practice. Students will collaborate with their field placement to identify a project in which they will evaluate a selected aspect of the organization or agency work. Students will also evaluate their ability to integrate social work knowledge, values, and practice skills in their professional role as a social worker. The capstone is a course at the end of the MSW process that provides students the opportunity to demonstrate key social work competencies at an advanced level with the potential to engage in research-informed practice which may lead to publications.
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MSW-6902 - Advanced Practicum II Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
In this second advanced practicum course, students will implement practice skills to differentially assess the strengths and capacities of interacting with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Application of social work ethics in professional practice will be utilized. Students will also practice interventions and models of evidence-based therapies to evaluate and problem-solve client issues from a generalist practice perspective.
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MSW-6901 - Advanced Practicum I Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
Advanced Practicum consists of two courses with a focus on experiential learning, offered within a community social service agency, or practice, and supervised by approved community practitioners. In this course, students will apply practice skills with families, groups, and individuals in their social contexts. The emphasis for this first advanced practicum is on developing professional roles and relationships, engaging in interactions with clients, and applying multi-systems assessment and interventions.
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MSW-6106 - Advanced Leadership Skills for Clinical Practice Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will explore the skills needed to cultivate leadership and professional behavior and work effectively with multi/interdisciplinary teams. Students will examine the delivery of supervision, leadership development, strategic planning, and transitioning from clinician to a leadership position. The role of leader at the organizational level will also be evaluated, including legislative advocacy and a review of jurisdictional regulations and requirements related to licensure and practice. Students will examine the expectations of administrative leadership for the daily operation of social work service delivery systems, including the functions of management, team-work, decision-making, use of authority, program planning, and staffing.
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MSW-6105 - Forensic Clinical Social Work Practice Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will examine the core clinical skills in forensic social work practice. Students will explore contemporary and complex social problems, including health and justice disparities. Common populations and issues regarding forensic social work, including children and families, adults, and older adults as well as theories integral to forensic social work practice will be evaluated. Students will also explore the diverse roles and careers in forensic social work, along with the collaborative relationships that forensic social workers engage in with physicians, nurses, psychiatrists, legal professionals, law enforcement, and correctional officers.
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MSW-6104 - Advanced Social Work Practice in Mental Health Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course students will examine DSM-5 inclusion with facets of mental health intervention needs for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness from a social work perspective. Of particular focus for students in this course will be distinguishing between evidence-based practice, best practices, and areas with emerging research knowledge. Students will also examine strategies that evaluate and monitor client progress and treatment outcomes as well as the recovery paradigm for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Students will also critically analyze the impact of health/mental health policies on populations-at-risk.
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MSW-6103 - Advanced Social Work in Medical Practice Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will examine current and emerging health behavior theory, research, practice, and interventions specific to various health related settings used by diverse populations. Students will explore theories of behavior change, including resilience orientation, to assist the student’s continuous professional growth. Students will also gain insight into the ethics of social worker facilitation of transitions and endings in medical care. Students will develop knowledge of community resources to assist with social work consultation, advocacy, referral and networking on behalf of clients to include working with DSM-5 guidelines.
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MSW-6102 - Advanced Social Work Practice with Marginalized Populations Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will examine what is meant by marginalized populations such as those experiencing homelessness, victims of natural disasters, veterans, and those with severe and persistent mental illness. Students will learn how discrimination and oppression impacts the lives of marginal populations. Students will also gain an understanding of the needs and services of diverse populations and the problems they face in accessing social services. Additionally, students will work to advocate for oppressed populations for social, political, legal, and economic justice. Students will explore the role of research, to include the minority stress model, in understanding the needs of marginalized and oppressed populations and in increasing opportunities for oppressed populations to improve resilience and access additional options.
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MSW-6101 - Advanced Social Work with Children and Families Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will apply evidence-based practice in addressing client problems to gain an understanding of their personal and professional values as a social worker engaged with clients who have complex needs. Students will be exposed to unique ethical considerations regarding practice interventions with both individuals and families. The application of regulations and standards in working with diverse populations will also be assessed. Students will critique the effectiveness of specific practices and explore the adjustment of interventions based on client needs. Students will also explore various family types and dynamics, cultural factors, and other factors influencing family interaction within the family system, with organizations, and the community. Students will also integrate DSM-5 guidelines.
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MSW-6010 - Generalist Practicum II Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
The Generalist Practicum II emphasizes the knowledge and processes basic to all social work interventions. The course will introduce students to various intervention models designed to effect change in social systems and specific social problems, by providing an opportunity to examine the integration of research, knowledge, and skills regarding a diverse client base.
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MSW-6009 - Generalist Practicum l Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 12
This course is designed to provide supervised, individual, and experiential learning within the setting of a social service/social work agency. Students will be exposed to the generalist practice of social work with individuals, families, and communities in an agency. Emphasis is placed on the introduction and development of therapy and assessment skills, theoretical integration, and personal and professional growth.
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MSW-6008 - Social Work in Interdisciplinary Settings Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
This course introduces students to the process and practice of social work engagement and collaboration with other professionals as a team to deliver services to diverse populations. Students will explore communications styles that comprise interdisciplinary therapeutic interventions. Practice interventions supported by research for integrated care settings will also be examined.
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MSW-6007 - Research Methods in Social Work Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
The focus of this course is on the fundamentals of quantitative and qualitative approaches to social work research. Students will gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach and how these methods apply to social work research. This course also provides students with a foundation in research ethics, and skills, in conducting literature reviews and scholarly writing. Students will also conduct a critical analysis of existing research on diverse and oppressed populations.
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MSW-6006 - Leadership in Social Work Practice Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
In this course, students will assess leadership skills and characteristics for an effective social work practice in diverse environments. Students will analyze theories and research related to effective leadership. Performance difficulties in organizations will be explored to assess effective leadership responses. Students will also assess the impact of social work values and ethics in the practice of leadership. Finally, students will critique licensure and regulation that affects social work practice in their jurisdiction.
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MSW-6005 - Ethics and Diversity in Social Work Semester Credits: 3 Weeks: 8
Models of ethical decision making in social work will be discussed in this course. Students will assess the need for ethics in working with diverse populations and constituents, as well as analyze governmental policy that guides social work practice with diverse clients. Students also will examine the ethics of social workers as advocates to ensure justice for constituents.
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