HST 103 - Introduction to American Civilizations

How did we get here? Explore the long-term development of American history from precolonial origins to European colonies to a world power. Investigate how social, cultural, political, and economic forces have shaped our lives. Topics and thematic approach will vary by section. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

HST 202/GSI 202 - History of Global Change and Social Transformation

A historical inquiry into long-term processes of global change and social transformation. Focus is on increasing interconnectedness of human communities from the deep past to the present, including spread of cultural, market and ecological exchanges, transport and communication technologies, developing ideas of social justice, and their connections to contemporary times. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Cross-listed with HST 202. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

HST 204 - World History since 1500

Basic content and methods of history through an introductory study of world cultures from 1500 to present. The course focuses on specific societies in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Western hemisphere, analyzing and comparing the ways in which political, economic, social, cultural, and demographic factors influenced the development of these various cultures. Required for majors. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

HST 205 - American History to 1877

The development of the United States from the Colonial Period to the end of Reconstruction with an emphasis on the role that race, ethnicity, culture, political thought, economics, and gender played in shaping American values and institutions. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

HST 206 - American History since 1877

Explore how race, gender, politics, and economics shaped American history since 1877. Topics include civil rights, foreign policy, immigration, industrialization, changing visions of our nation's mission, the growth of its global influence, and shifts in the distribution of people and power. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

HST 208 - European Civilization since the Later Middle Ages

Examines major events in European history from the Later Middle Ages to the present, including social, political, economic, and cultural developments. Topics will include the Reformation and Renaissance, the Age of Revolutions, the rise of fascism and communism, the two world wars and the Holocaust, and events since 1945. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives.
Credits: 3

HST 230 - Latin America in World History

This is a broad survey of Latin American history from the pre-Colombian period to the present. The course will focus on major issues and themes in Latin American history. Topics include Amerindians, conquest, slavery, independence, national identity, foreign intervention, revolutions, and inequality. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives.
Credits: 3

HST 241 - A History of East Asia since 1800

A broad overview of East Asian political systems, social changes, economic transformation, regional relations, and cultural interaction since 1800. Major historical events and trends along with cultural differences and interactions will be examined. Emphasis is given to China and Japan, though Korea and Vietnam are also covered. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis.
Credits: 3

PLS 102 - Issues in U.S. Politics

Examines American political values, governmental functions, political processes, policy issues, and decision-making processes through the lens of contemporary political issues, such as gun rights, abortion, education, policing, and the environment. Students will study the impact of diverse groups on the political process and outcomes. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures-U.S. Diversity. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

PLS 103 - Issues in World Politics

Analysis and discussion of contemporary issues in world politics as a vehicle for introducing core concepts in comparative politics, such as democracy, dictatorship, civil society, power, nationalism, political economy, social policy, identity politics, and development. Students will gain basic familiarity with the institutions, actors, and processes that influence world politics. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

PLS 105/HRT 105 - Introduction to Human Rights

Introduction to the historical and conceptual development of human rights as moral, legal, and cultural constraints on the behavior of states in relation to their citizens. Analysis is theoretical, exploring philosophical arguments surrounding the historical development of human rights and their current role in legal, cultural, literary, and political products. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Philosophy and Literature. Cross-listed with PLS 105. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

PLS 203 - State Politics

Examines the relationship between the states and the national government (federalism), state political institutions, and the politics and policies that characterize contemporary state governing. Emphasizes devolution (the shift of responsibility from the national government to the states), the relationship between governing and the economy, and Michigan politics and policy. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 206 - American Constitutional Foundations

Integrates the perspectives of political science and constitutional law to examine the principles and institutional structures of the American political system. Analyzes political and constitutional sources of presidential, congressional, state, and national power. Investigates federalism, voting, parties, interest groups, civil rights, and civil liberties. Primarily for social studies majors. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

PLS 211 - International Relations

This introductory course in international relations (IR) examines interactions among states and non-state actors in the international environment. Class focuses on military, economic, ethnic, and religious conflict. Topics include power, organizations, nationalism, and economic integration. Major IR theories are exemplified by current topics, such as terrorism, poverty, trafficking, and climate change. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

PLS 212 - Great Decisions

Defining moments in international relations and foreign policy decision-making are used to illustrate the impact of leaders, institutions, and public opinion on foreign policy. Students attend the "Great Decisions" lecture series and hear high-ranking foreign policy analysts discuss controversial issues in contemporary world affairs.
Credits: 3

PLS 221 - Government and Politics of Western Europe

A comparative analysis of government and politics in France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and other European countries. Topics include political participation, parties and elections, interest groups, political economy, social welfare policy, and the European Union.
Credits: 3

PLS 231 - Classical Political Thought

Survey of selected classical political theorists, including Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Aquinas, and Machiavelli. Emphasis on the concepts of justice, human nature, and the state. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

PLS 232 - Modern Political Thought

Survey of selected modern political theorists, including Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, and Marx. Emphasis on the concepts of the role of government, nature of justice, human nature, property, and political change. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

PLS 283 - Chinese Politics and U.S.-China Relations

A historical and thematic survey of Chinese politics by examining the patterns and dynamics of its political, economic, and social developments, as well as its interaction with the United States. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives.
Credits: 3

PLS 284 - Latin American Politics

The course analyzes the socioeconomic factors that influence political processes in Latin American countries, combining themes and case studies. Topics include theories of development, the historical role played by various political actors, and the current nature of development, inequality, democracy, and the politics of gender and race relations in the region. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives.
Credits: 3

AAA 200 - Understanding Africa

An introduction to the theoretical, conceptual, and historical framework that has shaped the study of Africa and a multidisciplinary survey of the main topics and issues facing the African continent as a vehicle for understanding African studies and making sense of Africa's evolution. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

AAA 201 - Introduction to African American Studies

Traces the historical development and examines the scope, theories, discourses, and methodologies defining African American studies and the critical responses to these studies. Surveys perspectives on African American history, religion, social organization, politics, economy, literature, and culture and social ideology. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

EAS 201 - East Asia in the Contemporary World

Prepares students for encountering East Asia in various ways. Introduces East Asian cultures, political and economic systems, international relationships, recent developments, traditional customs and behavior patterns, differences between regions, and historical roots of some contemporary situations. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

GSI 201 - (Dis)Order and (In)Justice: An Introduction to Global Studies

An interdisciplinary introduction to global studies using themes of order/disorder and justice/injustice to explore problems and issues affecting people globally. Focuses on interconnectedness of global concerns and links between the local and global, primarily from a social science perspective. Possible topics: migration, human trafficking, food security, anti-globalization movements, and infectious disease. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

GSI 215 - Global Migration

An interdisciplinary analysis of the global movement of immigrants and refugees and its relationship with the economy, politics, development, and culture. Students learn about migration as a key feature of globalization. Possible topics: migration history, immigration policies, border control, integration, citizenship, migrant transnationalism, diaspora, remittances, child migrants, and migration theories. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Cross-listed with PLS 215. Offered fall semester.
Credits: 3

LAS 210 - Exploring Latin America

This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary study of the origins and development paths of Latin American and Caribbean societies, with attention to the interrelationship between these societies and the United States. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

LAS 220 - Introduction to Latino/a Studies

An interdisciplinary introduction to the diversity and complexity of the U.S. Latino/a population, with attention to intraethnic and interracial relations, formation of social identities, and issues of assimilation and cultural conflict. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered winter semester.
Credits: 3

MES 201 - Introduction to the Middle East

An entry-level course introducing students to the variety and complexity of the Middle East. Provides a broad view of the region from the perspective of several disciplines and is especially suitable for students having little familiarity with the region. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

ANT 204 - Peoples and Cultures of the World

Introduces the discipline of anthropology by examining the diversity of human cultures that have been described by historical and current anthropologists. The principles of anthropology are explained with a focus on how culture impacts people's lives within global communities and societies. Comparisons are drawn with students' own cultures. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

ANT 215 - Origins of Civilization

This course examines the consequences of decisions made by our ancestors, the successes and failures of past civilizations, so that we may better understand our own behavior. Development of world civilizations is explored using historic, archaeological, and other perspectives that inform us about the past. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Historical Analysis. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

SOC 101 - Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to the fundamental questions, concepts, theories, and general principles of sociological thought. Inquiries into culture, socialization, norms, power relations, social institutions, and group interaction. Illustrates how human action transforms society, and how social and cultural forces constrain human action. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

SOC 105 - Social Problems

Examines a range of social conditions, arrangements, and behaviors typically defined as problems in modern society. Applies sociological analysis to understand how problems arise from the organization of society, and the processes by which conditions become identified as social problems, and how ideology and power shape responses to social problems. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

SOC 204 - Introduction to Social Theory

Builds the intellectual sophistication necessary to understand and work with theoretical concepts. Teaches imaginative assessment and creative construction of theoretical dialogues from classical theory, race and ethnicity, sex, gender and sexuality, recent developments in theory, and other areas, with application to real-life social events. Emphasis on reading primary texts. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

SOC 251 - Criminology

An analysis of crime, criminal behavior, and punishment through a variety of historical and contemporary theoretical perspectives. Offered on sufficient demand.
Credits: 3

COM 220 - Media Literacy

Introductory course in the critical study of media. Students develop the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and critique mediated communication in a variety of forms. Particular attention to how images, sounds, and words are combined to create meaning, and the economic determinants of the media in the United States. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

INT 201 - Diversity in the United States

Explores how the intersections of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, and physical abilities affect the material lives and media representations of various cultural groups in the United States. Engages historical and current debates regarding issues of immigration, meritocracy, segregation, the economy, the environment, and identity. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

HNR 221/HNR 222 - The Worlds of Greece and Rome

Continues the study of history, philosophy, and culture of the Classical period. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills one of the Issues requirements. Offered winter semester. Corequisite: HNR 221.
Credits: 3

HNR 223/HNR 224 - American Civilization

Course continues the study of American Civilization. Emphasis is on philosophy and arts in American culture. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Fulfills one of the Issues requirements. Offered winter semester.
Credits: 3

HNR 225/HNR 226 Sequences

Course continues the study of European history, philosophy, and culture. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Arts. Offered winter semester.
Credits: 3

HNR 219 - The Middle East Beyond the Headlines

This course covers the history, literature, philosophy, and art of the Islamic Middle East from the decline of the Ottoman period to the present. This time period is one of growth and uncertainty, with such major historical events as the fall of the Ottoman Empire, World Wars I and II, and the colonization of the Middle East. The course looks at how these historical events left their mark in philosophy, literature (including poetry and the birth of the Arabic novel and post-colonial theory/criticism), and art. Fulfills General Education Foundations - Arts. Offered winter semester. Corequisite: HNR 220.
Credits: 3

HNR 274/HNR 275 - Africa Seen Through African Eyes

This course surveys modern African civilizations through the medium of African literary texts and explores the relationship between literature and other arts, such as film and music. Analyzes the ways in which literature both reflects and interprets African societies from conquest through colonialism to independence. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills one of the Issues requirements. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Enrollment in Meijer Honors College. Corequisite: HNR 274.
Credits: 3

HNR 276/HNR 277 - East Asia and the World: Ideas, Inventions, and Power 

This course is the fourth part of a four-course, first-year interdisciplinary sequence specifically designed for first-year honors students. It surveys the arts, literature, and culture of Korea and Japan from c. 800 CE to the present. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills one of the Issues requirements. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Restricted to first-year honors students. Corequisite: HNR 276.
Credits: 3

HNR 265 - Theory and Practice of Rights 

This is the third of a three-part honors foundational interdisciplinary sequence on the theory and practice of rights in the United States and around the globe. It explores the experience of and resistance to human rights violations in particular cultural contexts. Fulfills one of the Foundations - Social and Behavioral Sciences. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Fulfills one of the Issues requirements. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: First-year honors student. Corequisite: HNR 264.
Credits: 3

HST 302 - Revolutionary America

A study of the American Revolution. Topics may include the causes and consequences of the American Revolution, and social/political/economic developments in the United States through the War of 1812. Prerequisite: Junior standing
Credits: 3

HST 303 - Era of Sectional Conflict, Civil War, and Reconstruction

This course focuses on the rise in sectional tensions, the conduct of the Civil War, and the tensions over the postwar/Reconstruction period in the United States. Prerequisite: Junior standing
Credits: 3

HST 312 - History of American Women

Analysis of the political, social, economic, and cultural history of women in American society from the colonial era through the present. Topics include domesticity, suffrage, health, employment, race, war, and feminism.
Credits: 3

HST 314 - African American History

Examines the history of African Americans from forced migration through the civil rights movement. Issues studied include race relations, black culture in slavery, emancipation, the origins of segregation, the "great migration," and the civil rights movement. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity.
Credits: 3

HST 315 - Latinos: The Forging of Ethnic Identities

Examination of the ways in which Mexicans, Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Central Americans, and others have over time created ethnic identities in the United States out of their transnational experiences. Also explores the impact of this process on American political, economic, and social structures.
Credits: 3

HST 316 - U.S. Civil Rights Movement History

This course will focus on United States civil rights leaders and their rhetoric of resistance, along with a focus on the social and cultural formations that undermined racial segregation. It will also examine the events and forces that created space for a successful movement.
Credits: 3

HST 318 - History of Democracy in America

Examines the historical development of democratic principles, ideologies, and practices in American history through case studies of particular crises in American democracy. Focuses on limits of democracy and debates among Americans and between scholars about practice of democracy in a variety of areas and from a multiplicity of viewpoints. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

HST 327 - History and Culture of American Cities

Ideas about cities are powerful in the U.S. Where do these perceptions originate? How do they shape our views of cities, public policy, and who cities are for? This course examines historical perspectives on the role of officials, thinkers, citizens, and others in shaping our cultural sense of urban areas.
Credits: 3

HST 329 - U.S. Intellectual History

Examines the major trends in American thought from the colonial period to the present. Examples of topics covered include evangelicalism, republicanism, the transcendentalists, feminism, the impact of Darwin and science on social thought, race, pragmatism, modernist criticism, liberalism, conservatism, and postmodern critical theory.
Credits: 3

HST 331 - Modern Latin America

This course will focus on themes related to Latin America from the independence period to the present day. Major themes will include patterns of state formation and models of economic development; United States intervention; the origins and course of radicalism and counter-revolution; and the problems of peaceful reform. Part of the Identity Issues. Cross-listed with LAS 331. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

HST 332 - Emergence of Modern India and South Asia

This course examines the emergence of modern India and South Asia from the 17th century to the present. Topics include tradition, modernity, imperialism, culture, religion, women and gender, migration, globalization, human rights, nationalism, Indian diaspora, and conflict and cooperation between the South Asian countries and between India and major world powers. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Part of the Globalization Issue. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

HST 333 - Modern China

Introduction to modern Chinese history from the late Ch'ing Dynasty to the present. Particular emphasis will be on China's two revolutions in 1911 and 1949 and the rise of Communism. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

HST 336 - Africa After 1870

The course will focus on specific themes related to European conquest of Africa and the transformation of selected African cultures under Colonial rule. Topics include scramble for partition, military conquest, missionary activity, Colonial economy and social changes, genocide and forced labor, resistance and nationalism, decolonization, and liberation.
Credits: 3

HST 338 - Modern Middle East

A survey of cultural, economic, and political developments in the Middle East and North Africa from the end of World War I, with particular attention to the rise of nationalism and issues of modernization.
Credits: 3

HST 343 - History of South Africa

Examines the political, social, and economic history of South Africa from the late 17th century to the early 1990s. The course will analyze the forces that created modern South Africa, particularly European conquest and colonization, mineral discoveries, industrialization, Apartheid, religion and the Dutch Reformed Church, and African resistance. Prerequisite: HST 204 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

HST 350 - Ancient Greece

Greek history during the Archaic and Classical Periods. Emphasis on the development of historical writing in the Greek World, a critical examination of ancient and modern historiography, and significant aspects of Greek political and social history.
Credits: 3

HST 372 - From Slavery to Freedom

Ironically, modern concepts of freedom emerged from societies deeply invested in its opposite, slavery. This course looks at the history of slavery and its abolition in three Latin American societies, Haiti, Cuba, and Brazil, to distinguish the distinctive ways in which each of them defined and constructed freedom. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Cross-listed with LAS 372. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

HST 374 - Revolution in the Americas

Men and women make history, sometimes through gradual, passive means and sometimes through sudden, active means. In the Americas, both categories of history-making have been common. This course explores international relations in the hemisphere by comparing revolutionary and evolutionary processes of change from Tierra del Fuego to the Northwest Territories. Cross-listed with LAS 374.
Credits: 3

HST 375 - History of Mexico

This course surveys the history of Mexico from the earliest human inhabitation to the present. It will introduce students to the major political, social, and cultural forces that have shaped the modern nation of Mexico. Cross-listed with LAS 375.
Credits: 3

HST 386 - 20th Century Europe

Examines Europe in the 20th century, including the age of total war; the Holocaust and its legacy; postwar recovery; the Cold War; social, political, and cultural developments in East and West; the rise of the European Union; the end of communism; and contemporary Europe.
Credits: 3

HST 387 - Modern Germany

A survey of German history and culture since 1870, including the Imperial period of Bismarck and Wilhelm II, World War I, the Weimar Republic, Hitler's Third Reich, World War II, post-war division, and reunified Germany.
Credits: 3

SST 495 - Education in Plural Societies (Capstone)

Examines the models used to interpret and explain the role of social studies education in the United States and the world. Explores questions related to social studies as a transmitter of social/cultural values and how these values transform across disciplines and time, both in and out of the classroom. Offered every semester. Prerequisite: SST 309 or SST 310.
Credits: 3

PLS 301 - Poverty, Inequality, and U.S. Public Policy

This course examines poverty and inequality in the United States. Topics include definitions of poverty and inequality, historical trends, and policy responses. Diverse perspectives, including international comparisons, will be presented. Students will explore various dimensions of inequality through small group activities. Part of the Identity Issue. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 302/WGS 302 - Women, Politics, and Public Policy

This course explores the ways that gender influences government and policy decisions. Students will explore many gendered issues and the relevant policy responses. Topics include domestic violence, reproductive policies, divorce and the family, marriage and the family, poverty, class, and compensation. Cross-listed with PLS 302. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 303/ENS 303 - Introduction to U.S. Environmental Policy

This course examines the decision-making processes to cope with modern environmental problems. The course focuses on both domestic and international environmental issues with special attention to interests, ideas, and institutions. Part of the Sustainability Issue. Cross-listed with PLS 303. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 304 - Political Parties and Interest Groups

A theoretical examination of the roles that these two different types of groups play in politics and an empirical examination of what they do and how they do it. Although the primary focus is on the U.S. political system, some comparative material will be presented. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 305 - Congress and the Presidency

An examination of the interrelationships among the modern president, Congress, and the federal bureaucracy, stressing contemporary forces and personalities affecting the relationship. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 306 - American Constitutional Law I

This course examines the constitutional foundations of the power relationship between the federal government and the states, among the three branches of the federal government, and between the government and the individual, with special emphasis given to the role of the Supreme Court in a democratic political system. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 307 - American Constitutional Law II

Civil liberties and civil rights. Constitutional principles, theories of constitutional interpretation, Supreme Court rulings, political consequences of rulings, and political and legal factors that influence Supreme Court decisions, especially civil rights decisions. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 311 - International Conflict and Conflict Resolution

Analysis of the causes of war and conditions for peace. Topics also include peacekeeping operations and the outcomes and ethics of war. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: PLS 211 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 312 - U.S. Foreign Policy

Survey of factors and forces that shape the making and implementation of U.S. foreign and defense policy. Emphasis on the perceptions of decision-makers, the impact of the policy-making process on decisions, and actual policies made since World War II. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or PLS 211 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 313 - International Organization

Analysis of the major global and regional institutions that promote order and cooperation in the international system, including the United Nations, World Bank, European Union, and NATO. Explores the theory and practice of government and nongovernment organizations in addressing issues such as poverty, human rights, and the environment. Prerequisite: PLS 211 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 314 - International Law

A study of the general principles of international law with emphasis on the role of law in political and economic relations of nations. Prerequisite: PLS 211 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 315 - International Political Economy

Analysis of the politics of international economic relations, with an emphasis on globalization, regional integration, trade, foreign investment, debt, and foreign aid. Prerequisite: One of PLS 211, ECO 210, or ECO 211.
Credits: 3

PLS 316/HRT 316 - Human Rights in International Politics

An analysis of human rights as an increasingly influential principle in international relations, and the friction between sovereignty and international standards of behavior. Topics covered within class may include the theoretical origins of human rights, international norms, international law, sovereignty, interventionism, particularly viewed through historical and contemporary human rights cases. Cross-listed with PLS 316. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: PLS 103 or PLS 211 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 319/AAA 319 - African Politics

A study of social and economic forces that shape the political processes in Africa through a combination of individual cases and general themes. Topics include colonization, regional integration, democratic transitions, state collapse and violence, politics of ethnicity, religion, gender and class, civil society, development, and Africa's role in world affairs. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Part of the Globalization Issue. Cross-listed with PLS 319. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 320 - Comparative Politics of the Middle East

This course presents a survey of current Middle East comparative politics. Students will be introduced to the most salient political issues in the Middle East. It will focus on examining the region's political institutions, actors, regime types, gender politics, political economy, civil society organizations, and political processes.
Credits: 3

PLS 325 - Human Rights and Democracy in Russia and the Post-Communist World

A comparative analysis of the intersection of human rights and political regimes in Russia, the former Soviet Union, and post-communist Europe. Emphasis will be placed on the different levels of state repression and protections as well as civil, political, social, and economic rights across the broader post-communist region. Prerequisite: PLS 103 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 327 - Politics of Developing Countries

An examination of government and political economy in developing countries. Topics include nation and state building, authoritarianism and democratization, and contemporary policy issues, including population growth, urbanization, hunger, and economic structural adjustment. Prerequisite: PLS 103 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 333 - Contemporary Political Thought

An examination of political thought from roughly the beginning of the 20th century to present. Schools of thought under study may include pragmatism, neoconservatism, critical theory, poststructuralism, philosophical hermeneutics, feminism, neoliberalism, and communitarianism. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: PLS 231 or PLS 232 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 335/HRT 335 - Theory of Human Rights

Critical examination of theories of human rights, with emphasis on classical ethical and political thought and the development of modern rights theory. Assessment of arguments both supporting and denying human rights, and applications to contemporary issues of slavery and trafficking, torture, genocide, and rights of women and sexual minorities. Cross-listed with PLS 335. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: PLS 105, or PLS 231, or PLS 232.
Credits: 3

PLS 337 - U.S. Political Thought

An examination of U.S. political thought from the colonial period to the present. Readings may include Federalist and Antifederalist papers, and works by Thoreau, Emerson, Cady Stanton, Anthony, Calhoun, DuBois, Dewey, Addams, King, and Malcolm X. Special attention is paid to political ideas emerging from the struggles for equal rights for all citizens. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 338 - Citizenship

Citizenship addresses a core political issue, defining membership in a political community. Course studies classic statements about citizenship, the approach to citizenship taken historically in the U.S., a nation of immigrants, and several different contemporary visions of ethically appropriate citizenship. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 339 - Democracy and the Authoritarian Challenge

Comparative examination of theories of democratization and resilience of authoritarianism. Explores regime definitions, theoretical debates of democracy and dictatorship, factors associated with democratic deepening, and the consequences for human rights protection. Includes contemporary case studies from Africa, East and South Asia, Europe and Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 340 - Mass Media and American Politics

An examination of the role of the mass media in American politics, including the news media as a political institution, the news media as policymakers, media influence on political leaders, and media impact on public opinion. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: PLS 102 or junior standing.
Credits: 3

PLS 350 - Comparative Public Opinion

This course examines the methodology and application of international survey research in the comparative analysis of public opinion. The primary emphasis is the comparison of mass politics in the United States of America to other advanced industrial democracies. Subjects studied include electoral behavior, civic involvement, political attitudes, and ideologies. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisites: STA 215 and PLS 300; or permission of the instructor.
Credits: 3

AAA 300 - U.S. - Africa Relations

Examines the historical development of the relationship between the United States and Africa, and the broad range of issues, cultural, economic, political, security and social, that condition and shape the relationship. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered every year.
Credits: 3

AAA 319 - African Politics

A study of social and economic forces that shape the political processes in Africa through a combination of individual cases and general themes. Topics include colonization, regional integration, democratic transitions, state collapse and violence, politics of ethnicity, religion, gender and class, civil society, development, and Africa's role in world affairs. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Part of the Globalization Issue. Cross-listed with PLS 319. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

AAA 352 - Black Women's Culture and Communities

A historical and theoretical analysis of the distinct identities African American women constructed for themselves (and had constructed for them) in response to the forces of patriarchal domination and political colonization. Fulfills U.S. Diversity requirement. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Cross-listed with WGS 352. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

LAS 325 - Human Rights in Latin America

An interdisciplinary exploration of human rights in Latin America, with a focus on regimes indicted for human rights violations during the Cold War, and subsequent efforts to reform repressive political systems and resolve difficult questions of how to define and enact justice. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: Junior standing and one of the following (LAS 210, PLS 105, PLS 211, or PLS 284).
Credits: 3

LAS 373 - Latinos/as in West Michigan

An interdisciplinary examination of demographic, socioeconomic, political, and cultural trends in the growing, diverse Latino/a community in the West Michigan area. Students have the option of conducting an original research project or engaging in service-learning. Part of the Identity issue. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered fall semester of even-numbered years. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

MES 370 - Contemporary Issues in the Middle East: The Model Arab League

Students in this course will learn about the current political, environmental, economic, social, cultural, military, and international affairs of Middle Eastern countries. They will research these issues and participate in the Model Arab League simulation as part of the course. May be repeated for credit if content differs. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

ANT 330 - Anthropology of Selected World Areas

Current topics and methodology will be examined within one anthropological subdiscipline from the perspective of a particular geographic area. Focus will be on the fundamental question: What does anthropology contribute in terms of our understanding of people and cultures? Students may repeat provided each repeat is for a different area.
Credits: 3

ANT 340 - Culture and Environment

Compares different adaptive strategies of cultures from around the world and seeks understanding of ethical and social values different groups have related to the environment. Attention is focused on how humans relied on cultural mechanisms in the past to adapt and change their physical and natural environment. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Part of the Sustainability Issue. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisites: Junior standing, Fulfillment of General Education Foundations - Writing, and either Historical Analysis or U.S. Diversity.
Credits: 3

ANT 421 - Anthropology of Social Movements

This course overviews a wide range of processes and practices related to social movements, and anthropology's central role in expanding the definition of collective resistance beyond the scope of formalized protest (and strategic outcomes) to include and examine everyday forms and lived experience of resistance and dissent. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 306 - The Sociology of Human Rights

This course uses a sociological framework to examine how human rights are socially determined, theorized, conceptualized, designed, interpreted, adjudicated, implemented, enforced, violated, and contested. It does so by looking at specific human rights regimes, categories, and violations in both national and global terms. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Offered alternating fall and winter semesters each year. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 313 - Race and Ethnicity

This course examines the cultural, historical, and social constructions of race and ethnicity. Topics include immigration, legal systems, institutional discrimination, and systemic racism. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Offered every semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 315 - Social Class Inequality

Explores economic and class inequality in the United States and globally. Explains the historical, social, economic, and political forces that shape and reinforce social class inequality. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 317 - Sociology of Gender

Explores gender as a socially constructed system of stratification. Topics may include how ideas about gender shape childhood, families, education, work, violence, science, and social inequality. Examines how gender intersects with other socially constructed systems of stratification, including race, sexuality, class, age, and ability. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Part of the Identity Issue. Cross-listed with WGS 317. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 318 - Sociology of Sexuality

Explores sexuality as a socially constructed system of stratification. Topics may include the production of sexual identities and desires, and how ideas about sexuality shape the media, violence, social movements, and work. Examines how sexuality intersects with other socially constructed systems of stratification, including race, gender, class, age, and ability. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Part of the Identity Issue. Cross-listed with WGS 318. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 319 - Classic Social Theory

A critical survey of social theorists who shaped early sociology and remain relevant today. Covers theory from the early modern period to World War II. Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and six additional hours in sociology.
Credits: 3

SOC 321 - Contemporary Sociological Theory

A critical survey of social theorists who extended and sometimes challenged the sociological perspective. Emphasizes the development and application of theory in relationship to contemporary issues. Covers theorists from post-World War II to the present. Offered winter semester. Prerequisites: SOC 204 and six additional credits in sociology.
Credits: 3

SOC 322 - Sociology of Community

Examines sociology's community studies tradition and concerns with the modern fate of close-knit, cohesive communities. Readings focus on the field's intellectual origins, contrasts between small towns and cities, major theories, research methods, and contemporary communities. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Part of the Identity Issue. Offered winter semester. Prerequisites: SOC 101 and junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 333 - Sociology of the Civil Rights Movement

This course applies multiple sociological models of social movements to the American civil rights movement from 1940-1970s. Offered fall semester.
Credits: 3

SOC 350 - Family and Gender in the Developing World

Explores the impact of economic change on families and gender roles in developing countries. Will include consideration of factors affecting family reproduction decisions, women in the formal and informal labor force, etc., and in-depth study of gender and family in one or more countries. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Part of the Identity Issue. Cross-listed with WGS 350. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisites: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 351 - Urban Sociology

This class explores the major dynamics of urban areas, such as their change over time, the growth of suburbs, racial inequality, sustainability, and gentrification. Students will explore housing insecurity, race relations, environmental issues, and urban redevelopment as well as evaluate policy solutions to urban problems. Part of the Sustainability Issue. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 355 - Sociology of Work and Employment

Provides an understanding of the current labor market through an examination of the changing dynamics of work, occupational structure, and labor relations in the U.S. and globally. Analyzes the impact of globalization on workers, and the efforts of workers' movements to respond to new economic challenges. Part of the Globalization Issue. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 360 - Social Psychology: Sociology's View

Studies how individual's perceptions, belief systems, moralities, identities, and behaviors are influenced by their place in society relevant to institutions and structural context. Also studies how individuals, as actors, influence our social world. Offered every semester. SOC 360 is not equivalent to PSY 360, students may receive credit for both courses. Prerequisite: Any three credits in sociology or psychology.
Credits: 3

SOC 366 - American Society and Media

Interdisciplinary approach to the ways in which mediated mass culture produces meaning in contemporary American society as examined through a variety of critical lenses such as political economy and sociocultural analyses of the organization of the mass media, media content, and audience reception studies of film, television, and/or music cultures. Part of the Information, Innovation, or Technology Issue. Cross-listed with INT 366. Offered every year. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 377 - Globalization: Structures and Movements

Examines and critiques the historical origins, economic and technological foundations, institutional arrangements, ideological underpinnings, collective movements, and controversial outcomes of "transnationalism" and "globalization." Sociological analysis emphasizes macrolevel institutions that shape globalization, social conflicts arising from its effects, and the consequences of global change on individuals, groups, and organizations. Part of the Globalization Issue. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

SOC 381 - Class, Race, Gender, and Sexuality

Focus is on the social, historical, and cultural meanings of class, race, and gender. Gives students a better understanding of the interrelationship of class, race, and gender within the context of family life, schooling, and work. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisite: SOC 101 or SOC 105.
Credits: 3

SOC 392 - Social Deviance and Social Control

An analysis of deviant behavior: its causes, manifestations, prevention, and programs of control. Special attention is given to the role of social norms in generating, as well as controlling, deviance. Emphasis is put on ways in which social structures generate and label deviants. Offered fall semester.
Credits: 3

SOC 490 - Practicum: Career-Service

Agency experience in the community relating practical training and independent study in a specialized area. Limited to nine credits maximum. Offered every semester. Prerequisites: 15 hours of course preparation and permission of instructor. Graded credit/no-credit.
Credits: 1-9

COM 371 - Media and Society

Examines the communications environment of societies and current issues affecting media. May be repeated for credit when content differs. Offered every semester.
Credits: 3

COM 372 - Global Communications

A global focus on the relationship between media and society. The nature of global media in a world community. Varieties of media technologies, contents, and effects. How media encourage cross-cultural unity or increase tensions within and between nations. Offered fall and winter semesters.
Credits: 3

COM 376 - Communications Policy and Law

A survey of key policies and recent developments in communication law that shape media industries (print, broadcast, cable, telephone, and the Internet) and communication practices in media environments. In this context, theories of policymaking, regulation, and the public interest are examined. Offered winter semester.
Credits: 3

COM 378 - Intercultural Communication

This course introduces students to the ways culture, communication, and identity influence one another. Students will learn about the theories, traditions, new technologies and societal structures which nuance and shape our intercultural experiences in domestic and global contexts. Course topics may include race, language, national identity, gender, sexuality, religion. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

COM 438 - Communication Ethics

An upper-division course for the study of communications ethics. Students explore how language and innocence are mutually exclusive, examine how rhetoric, ideology, and information bear upon social and personal evil, and consider ethics issues relating specifically to communicative media. Focus is directed to the assessment and development of ethical sense-making. Part of the Identity Issue. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

INT 320/HRT 320 - Voices of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States

This interdisciplinary course integrates numerous expressive genres, including autobiographies, oral histories, and music, to examine how activists challenged human rights violations. Narrations of individual transformations show how shared experiences, ideologies, and opposition expanded understandings of human rights nationally and globally during the civil rights movements in the United States. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Cross-listed with INT 320. Offered every other year. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

INT 325 - LGBTQ Identities

This interdisciplinary course draws on scholarship in the fields of sociology, literature, history, anthropology, LGBTQ, cultural, and gender studies in order to teach students about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer complex identities (identity formation and development), identifications, and the social, political, historical, and cultural problems underpinning these constructions. Part of the Identity Issue. Offered once a year. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

INT326/WGS 326 - Sexuality, Justice, and Advocacy

An exploration of sexuality through an interdisciplinary, intersectional lens. Topics include reproductive justice, adult sexual development, public policy, and sexual health and justice activism. Students will increase their knowledge and facilitation skills related to sexual health, reproductive health, and how theory and practice inform sexual health and justice activism. Part of the Health Issue. Cross-listed with INT 326. Offered every semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

INT 341 - Leadership for Social Change

An examination of the theory and practice of leadership in social change movements, focused on developing personal and organizational capacities for leadership in a liberal education context. Students identify a contemporary social issue and create an action plan for resolution, addressing that issue with at least one action step. Part of the Information, Innovation, or Technology Issue. Offered fall and winter semesters. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

INT 350 - The Immigrant Experience in the U.S.

An interdisciplinary course framing immigration in the United States as part of a global struggle for human rights. Students develop an understanding of the experiences of diverse immigrants and how migrations shape the U.S. historically, economically, politically, and culturally. Examines policies and perspectives on citizenship and human rights. Part of the Human Rights Issue. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3

INT 400 - Global Visionary Leadership

This variable topics course examines the life and work of a visionary person or persons outside the U.S. whose theories and/or actions have effected deep change. The impact of these visionary ideas and actions result in paradigm shifts within global cultures, institutions, societies, and worldviews. May be repeated for credit. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Offered once a year.
Credits: 3

INT 401 - American Visionary Leadership

A variable topics course that focuses on the life and work of a significant contributor to the American mosaic and thereby the United States' vision of diversity. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. May be repeated for credit. Offered winter semester.
Credits: 3

INT 402/WGS 402 - Feminist Visionary Thinkers

This variable topics course examines the life and work of a significant feminist visionary thinker or thinkers whose theories, work, and/or actions have effected deep change in the world resulting in paradigm shifts within global cultures, institutions, societies, and worldviews. Cross-listed with WGS 402. May be repeated for credit. Offered winter semester.
Credits: 3

EDF 315 - Diverse Perspectives on Education

This course will introduce the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations of education in the United States. Emphasis will be placed on the changing purposes of education historically, the legal and procedural expansion of schooling to an increasingly diverse student population, and the cultural competencies needed to teach all students effectively. Fulfills General Education Cultures - U.S. Diversity. Offered every semester. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Credits: 3

EDF 316 - Global Perspectives on Education

Globalization is changing the purposes of education around the world, both increasing competition and enhancing global citizenship. This course will examine the interrelationship between sociocultural contexts and education in multiple countries, the impact of globalization on educational policies and practices, and global perspectives on these emerging challenges and opportunities. Fulfills General Education Cultures - Global Perspectives. Part of the Globalization Issue. Offered winter semester. Prerequisite: Junior standing.
Credits: 3