2017-2018 Catalog 
    
    Apr 27, 2024  
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2017-2018 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

The numbers in parentheses following course titles indicate (1) hours per week of lecture, (2) hours per week of laboratory and (3) semester credit hours. An asterisk (*) following these three figures indicates variable or alternative credit, and the last figure represents the maximum variation in semester credit hours. In general, credit hours for these variable courses may range from one to the number indicated.

The frequency of offering follows the meeting and credit hour information. Courses offered every year are designated by semester(s) only. Courses offered every other year are designated by semester and odd/even year.

Note: Since most courses are not offered every semester, students should be aware that failure to take a required course when it is offered may delay graduation.

Any course may be offered on demand should sufficient interest be demonstrated and should a qualified instructor be available. “Demand” courses with a defined content will be offered as regularly as practical for the host department.

At the end of the course description, the following information will be given when applicable: laboratory information, corequisites (“concurrent enrollment”) and prerequisites, cross listed courses (“same as”), special fees, and pertinent information about the use of the course.

Courses and Numbering

All courses are listed alphabetically by course prefix and numerically within each prefix. The department and college assignments are also noted. ACU uses a three-digit course numbering system. Courses numbered 100 to 299 are lower-level courses (primarily for freshmen and sophomores). Courses numbered from 300 to 499 are upper-level, or advanced, courses (primarily for juniors and seniors). Courses numbered 500 to 799 are graduate courses. All courses numbered 000 to 099 do not count toward graduation or GPA.

Prerequisites and Corequisites

Some courses have prerequisites, which must be met before a student may register for that course. In some cases, a student may have special knowledge, skills or background that will enable him or her to perform well in a given class without meeting its prerequisites. Such a student should seek special permission from the department and/or instructor offering the course. Courses listed as corequisite must be taken together. Students should refer to the most recent catalog for course corequisites, prerequisites, and restrictions.

Course Sequencing

Some courses have recommendations of a previous course(s) for appropriate sequencing. Such recommendations are not prerequisites; the system will allow any student meeting a course’s prerequisites to enroll for a course regardless of whether the student meets the sequencing recommendations. Students are cautioned, however, to follow sequencing recommendations when all of the courses in the sequence are on their degree plans.

Guided Study, Special Topics, and Tutorial Courses

Each department may offer Guided Study (also called Independent Study) courses (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700); Special Topics courses (140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740); or Tutorial courses (generally offered to students at Study Abroad locations) as special needs dictate and/or available faculty allow. The first number will indicate the level of the course. Special Topics courses are offered on a one-time basis, to take advantage of particular faculty expertise, or to allow a department to develop a course for permanent inclusion in the inventory of courses. Generally, Special Topics and Tutorial courses may be included in the Semester Schedule when they are offered; Guided Studies will not be included in the Semester Schedule.

The Texas Common Course Numbering System

The Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS) has been designed for the purpose of aiding students in the transfer of general academic courses between colleges and universities throughout Texas. Common courses are freshman and sophomore academic credit courses that have been identified as common by institutions that are members of the common course numbering system. The system ensures that if the student takes the courses the receiving institution designates as common, then the courses will be accepted in transfer.

For further information contact the transfer course coordinator in the Registrar’s Office.
 

Christian Ministry
  

  • BIBM 614 - Theology and Ministry in Times of Crisis

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, even years

    Provides skills for intervening in crises that church leaders encounter, including needs assessment skills, maintenance of healthy boundaries within relationships, and theological reflections.
  

  • BIBM 616 - Witness in Global Contexts

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Provides a theological orientation to the task of evangelism. The class builds on the assumption that the gospel has certain instincts with regard to evangelism and its interface with culture. Attention is given to the implications of gospel and culture for the presentation of the gospel.
  

  • BIBM 627 - Preaching New Testament Literature

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: on demand

    An exploration of the challenges of preaching from various books of the New Testament. Particular attention is paid to the theological shape and flow of whole canonical books and the homiletical possibilities they offer as students move from text to sermon. This variable topic course periodically focuses on different canonical books. As topics vary, the course may be only taken twice. May be taken as text elective credit. Prerequisite: BIBL 627 .
  

  • BIBM 628 - Preaching Pauline Literature

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: on demand

    Enhances the ability of students to move from text to sermon as they preach from Pauline literature and examines how the form and function of different genres influence form and function in sermons. Taught as an Internet course.
  

  • BIBM 629 - Field Education Contextual Immersion

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 6
    Terms Offered: on demand

    An immersive learning experience for students to practice, observe, and reflect on ministry through a ministry project within a selected ministry context. This course is available for variable credit. Please see your advisor for more information.
  

  • BIBM 635 - Engaging Adolescents in Christian Formation

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, Summer

    Explores the processes of Christian spiritual formation and implications for ministry with adolescents. Students will think critically and theologically about adolescence as a socially constructed concept and plan intentionally for spiritual formation in a ministry directed at those in this time of life.
  

  • BIBM 637 - Ministry with Older Adults

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: January

    Covers demographics of the aging community, analyzes programs for serving the older member, and how to utilize the talents of mature church members. Same as GERO 637 .
  

  • BIBM 644 - Pastoral Ministry Skills for Church Leaders

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Summer

    Pastoral ministry theory and skills for individuals, families, and congregations in crisis, especially designed for church leaders.
  

  • BIBM 645 - Managing Conflict in Churches

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    The course will offer an examination of the causes, arenas, and dynamics of conflict in churches with an introduction to five major approaches to interviewing in conflicted situations. A variety of instructional methods, including lectures, case studies, role plays, media, expert resource persons, and personal style instruments will be employed. Additional course fee required.
  

  • BIBM 646 - Youth and Family Ministry

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: on demand

    A detailed study of youth/family ministry in light of congregational systems, developmental studies, and youth culture with readings on topics significant to advanced youth ministry.
  

  • BIBM 648 - Christian Spiritual Formation

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    Christian spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others. This course identifies how God utilizes Scripture, people, contexts, literature, spiritual disciplines, and events to transform believers into Christ likeness.
  

  • BIBM 651 - Supervised Practice of Ministry I

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Classroom preparation is balanced by a variety of ministry experiences, self-discovery processes, and nurturing relationships with faculty, supervising ministers, and church leaders in multiple contexts. Through the process of gradual immersion into ministry practice, an examination of professional identity will begin. (BIBM 652 , BIBM 656  are a continuation of this course.) Additional course fee required.
  

  • BIBM 652 - Supervised Practice of Ministry II

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Additional course fee required.
  

  • BIBM 656 - Supervised Practice of Ministry VI

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Additional course fee required.
  

  • BIBM 657 - Contexts of Ministry

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Identify and explore contemporary ministry contexts. Students will study and practice methods of observation and reflection on ministry that result in an enriched practice of ministry in diverse contexts.
  

  • BIBM 658 - The Practice of Ministerial Leadership

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    As a part of the contextual education course sequence, this course develops leadership resources for various ministerial contexts. Prerequisite: BIBM 603 , BIBM 629  and BIBM 657 .
  

  • BIBM 670 - Worship

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Examines biblical, historical, theological and practical perspectives on worship.
  

  • BIBM 673 - Ministry with Children and Families

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Through interviews and participant observation, students will learn to examine the family, school, church, and community contexts of the spiritual lives of children so as to be able more effectively to engage in their pastoral care. Intellectual, spiritual, and social dimensions of the formation of children will be attended to, as will the theological and biblical underpinnings of children’s ministry.
  

  • BIBM 678 - GST Senior Portfolio Preparation

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

    This zero-credit module is required for all GST students preparing for their senior review.
  

  • BIBM 681 - Preaching in Contemporary Contexts

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Emphasis on communication skills in preaching (delivery, language vividness and clarity) and enhanced facility with diverse organizational strategies.
  

  • BIBM 692 - Church Curriculum

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Curriculum principles applied to the total church program.
  

  • BIBM 693 - Church and Family Ministry

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Students will explore the sociological, educational, and theological dimensions of churches and families. Students will write ethnographies of church and family systems and then build educational programs that respond to the reality of ministry in such settings. Students learn how to move beyond therapeutic or schooling models of Christian education to more holistic approaches.
  

  • BIBM 694 - Church Administration

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: on demand

    Principles of organization, administration and supervision as they apply to the life of a local congregation.
  

  • BIBM 696 - Theological Perspectives on Human Behavior

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Summer

    A study of the interrelationship between theological and systematic explanations of human behavior and how they may be integrated in psychotherapeutic practice and/or ministry settings while maintaining the integrity of both. Same as BMFT 696 .
  

  • BIBM 699 - Master’s Thesis

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 6
    May be repeated. This course is available for variable credit. Please see your advisor for more information.
  

  • BIBM 700 - Guided Study

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: on demand

    A fee will be assessed to the student
  

  • BIBM 701 - Doctor of Ministry Orientation

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0
    Terms Offered: June

    Introductory course covering an overview of the program, analysis of ministry, research techniques, project design, and ministry resources.
  

  • BIBM 702 - Biblical and Theological Foundations of Ministry

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June

    Investigates the development of a biblical theology of ministry, relating ministry to major themes of the Bible that affect contemporary ministry.
  

  • BIBM 703 - Preaching in Contemporary Contexts

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, odd years

    An analysis of current theories and methods of proclamation combined with the study of critical considerations in the development of the minister’s theology of preaching in the contemporary culture. Emphasis on a variety of approaches to expositional preaching that let the Bible speak clearly in the students’ contexts.
  

  • BIBM 706 - Christian Leadership Development

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June

    An integrated analysis of theology, organizational behavior, group process, personality theory, pastoral care, and problem-solving skills designed to enhance the leadership effectiveness of participants. Additional course fee required.
  

  • BIBM 710 - Crisis Counseling and Brief Therapy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, odd years

    Analysis of stressful events from both individual and family perspectives and from both developmental and accidental frameworks. Theologies of human nature, of the God/human relationship, and of counseling will be developed. Therapeutic strategies for crisis counseling and for doing brief therapy will be discussed. Assessment, treatment, and referral methodologies will be developed.
  

  • BIBM 711 - Preaching and Theology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, even years

    Several theological perspectives, methods, and issues are explored in order to provide a more biblical and effective basis for preaching.
  

  • BIBM 713 - Preaching From the New Testament

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, odd years

    A study of the preparation of sermons from two New Testament books, including historical-critical analysis, examination of form, and appropriate application in the contemporary world.
  

  • BIBM 716 - Theological Foundations for the Practice of Ministry

    Lecture Hours: 6
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 6
    Terms Offered: June

    Integrates the varied sources of Scripture, theology, history, cultural analysis, and methodological assessment to develop an informed practical theology for the practice of ministerial leadership.
  

  • BIBM 717 - Christian Spiritual Formation

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, odd years

    Examines the biblical theology, the history, and the pastoral applications of Christian spirituality giving special attention to four historic expressions of spirituality (Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, and Restorationist).
  

  • BIBM 718 - Theological Practice of Evangelism

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, even years

    The practice of evangelism as a theological endeavor involves listening to the stories of our churches, attending to biblical understandings of evangelism, exploring evangelism within various systematic theologies, and allowing culture to inform questions of meaning and relevance. The overall outcome should be an articulated plan for evangelism within specific ministry contexts.
  

  • BIBM 719 - Missional Ecclesiology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: January

    Focuses on understanding the relationship of the church to the mission of God in the world and applying that understanding to actual ministry contexts. Explores biblical, theological, and historical themes. Contextualization includes analysis of a post-Christendom North America and consideration of specific ecclesial practices that lend themselves to contextual innovation.
  

  • BIBM 721 - Theology of Culture

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: January

    Examine the relationship between culture and theological anthropology, probing the implications for ministerial contexts.
  

  • BIBM 723 - Worship

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, even years

    Prepares students to understand and engage in worship as liturgical community formation. Attention is given to biblical, theological, and sociological aspects of liturgical community formation. Prerequisite: admission to the DMin program and BIBM 702 .
  

  • BIBM 724 - Project/Thesis Seminar I

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: June

    The first course of a two-part seminar to orient and launch the students on a journey toward a successful project/thesis project appropriate for the student’s unique ministry setting.
  

  • BIBM 725 - Project/Thesis Seminar

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June

    A concluding seminar designed to integrate the competencies developed in the DMin curriculum and to create a project appropriate for the student’s unique ministry setting.
  

  • BIBM 726 - Project/Thesis Seminar II

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 2
    Terms Offered: June

    The concluding course of a two-part seminar designed to integrate the competencies developed in the DMin curriculum and to create a project appropriate for the student’s particular ministry setting. Prerequisite: BIBM 724 .
  

  • BIBM 731 - Leading Change in Christian Organizations

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: June, odd years

    Provides students with in-depth engagement with the philosophies and processes of leading change in churches and other Christian organizations. The course will equip students for planning, conducting, and evaluating ministry interventions with particular focus on addressing issues of chronic anxiety and marginality in the ministry context.
  

  • BIBM 733 - Culture, Context, and Community

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, odd years

    This course investigates issues of leadership, culture, and ecclesial community from an anthropological perspective, paying particular attention to leadership in contemporary global contexts. It covers theoretical and practical dimensions that include the nature of culture, the nature of the culture and leadership, and critical reflection on personal leadership preferences.
  

  • BIBM 735 - Seminar in Preaching

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, odd years

    This course engages texts and themes of Scripture with the practice of preaching.
  

  • BIBM 742 - Forming Communities of Faith

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Summer, even years

    This course brings the resources of the Christian tradition into conversation with the practices of Christian communities to develop ministerial leadership for the formation of mature, healthy disciples.
  

  • BIBM 798 - Continuing DMin Study

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0
    Terms Offered: on demand

    There is a fee associated with this course.
  

  • BIBM 799 - DMin Project/Thesis

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 6
    This course is available for variable credit. Please see your advisor for more information.

Philosophy
  

  • BIBP 352 - Biomedical Ethics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Students will explore current bioethical issues in the health care field, evaluate each issue at the philosophical level, and learn to respond from a Christian worldview. Prerequisite: BIBL 101  and BIBL 102  (or BIBL 103 ). May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • BIBP 379 - Philosophy, Religion and Science

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, odd years

    The relationships among God, humans, and nature from the perspectives of philosophy, religion, and science. Same as PHYS 379  and PHIL 379 . May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • BIBP 380 - Introduction to Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Basic concerns of philosophy to other fields, and a discussion of the major types of philosophy. Prerequisite: BIBL 101  and BIBL 102  (or BIBL 103 ). Same as PHIL 380 . May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • BIBP 478 - Philosophy of Religion

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, even years

    An examination of theism in the light of reason, competing world views, and philosophies. Prerequisite: BIBL 101  and BIBL 102  (or BIBL 103 ). Same as PHIL 478 . May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • BIBP 486 - Ethics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    This course introduces students to various philosophical and theological approaches to morality with a specific focus on how the Christian tradition informs our responses to critical moral questions. Prerequisite: BIBL 101  and BIBL 102  (or BIBL 103 ). Same as PHIL 486 . May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • BIBP 487 - History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, odd years

    Development of philosophical thought during the ancient and medieval periods. Prerequisite: BIBL 101  and BIBL 102  (or BIBL 103 ). Same as PHIL 487 . May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • BIBP 489 - History of Modern Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, even years

    The development of philosophical thought from Hobbes and Descartes through Kant and Hegel with emphasis on epistemology, metaphysics, and ethical theory. Prerequisite: BIBL 101  and BIBL 102  (or BIBL 103 ). Same as PHIL 489 . May be used to satisfy Bible University Requirements.
  

  • PHIL 275 - Introductory Logic and Critical Thinking

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, even years

    Validity and soundness of arguments both in ordinary language (e.g. religion) and in the technical language of science, law, theology, and criticism.
  

  • PHIL 378 - History and Philosophy of Science

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, odd years

    Newtonian physics, evolution, thermodynamics, quantum theory, relativity, and the impact of these sciences on religion, philosophy, literature, the arts, and the social sciences. Same as PHYS 378 . May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • PHIL 379 - Philosophy, Religion and Science

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, odd years

    The relationships among God, humans, and nature from the perspectives of philosophy, religion, and science. Same as PHYS 379  and BIBP 379 . May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • PHIL 380 - Introduction to Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Basic concerns of philosophy, relation of philosophy to other fields, and a discussion of the major types of philosophy. Prerequisite: Same as BIBP 380 . May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • PHIL 451 - Philosophy and Social Justice

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, even years

    This course considers the contributions of major contemporary philosophers to understanding distributive social justice on a national and international level. The class will explore the consistency of various positions with the teachings of Jesus about social justice. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • PHIL 478 - Philosophy of Religion

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, even years

    Theism in light of reason, competing world views, and philosophies. Same as BIBP 478 .
  

  • PHIL 486 - Ethics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Introduces different philosophical approaches to ethics, while focusing on selected ethical issues facing contemporary Christians. Same as BIBP 486 .
  

  • PHIL 487 - History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, odd years

    The development of philosophical thought during the ancient and medieval periods. Same as BIBP 487 .
  

  • PHIL 489 - History of Modern Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, even years

    The development of philosophical thought from Hobbes and Descartes through Kant and Hegel with emphasis on epistemology, metaphysics, and ethical theory. Same as BIBP 489 .
  

  • PHIL 490 - Early Political Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, even years

    The major political philosophers from Plato to Machiavelli. Same as POLS 490 .
  

  • PHIL 491 - Modern Political Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, odd years

    The major political philosophers from Machiavelli to the present. Same as POLS 491 .

Biology at Au Sable
  

  • BIOA 302 - Lake Ecology and Management

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    Field study of lakes and other freshwater systems with applications to planning and management. Includes an introduction to limnology and investigation of representative lakes, streams, and wetlands of the region and compares the North American Great Lakes with the other great lakes of the world and their stewardship. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 , CHEM 111 /CHEM 112  or CHEM 131 /CHEM 133 , CHEM 113 /CHEM 114  or CHEM 132 /CHEM 134 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 305 - Field Ecology of Birds

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    Biology, behavior, ecology and identification of birds. Work is primarily conducted in the field and covers the major habitats of northern lower Michigan, including wetlands, lakes, rivers, forests, dunes, and open field communities. Emphasis will be placed on identification of the spring bird fauna of northern lower Michigan by sight and by call. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 311 - Field Botany

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    Field and lab identification, systematics, natural history, and ecology of vascular plants as components of natural communities. Ecological features, including stratification, history, plant zonation, adaptation, and animal interactions are examined. Relationships of plant families and higher groups are covered. Project and/or plant collection required. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 322 - Aquatic Biology

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    Ecology, identification, systematics, culture, and care of aquatic plants and animals, and adaptations to freshwater environments. Aquatic life is studied in lakes, ponds, bogs, marshes, and streams and in the laboratory. The course assesses human impacts on aquatic species and ecosystems, presents procedures for the stewardship of aquatic habitats, and introduces aquatic restoration ecology. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 345 - Wildlife Ecology

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    This course covers the ecology, conservation, and stewardship of wildlife species and their habitats. The main components of the course includes growth and structure of natural and managed populations, environmental and human social factors affecting wildlife communities, and wildlife conservation. The course is set in the context of the historical development of the field from management, to ecology, and to the land ethic of Leopold. It also includes discussions of how to apply this information for management and stewardship of non-game and endangered species, and long-term prospects of wildlife in changing environmental, climatic, and social contexts. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 355 - Watersheds in Global Development

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    This course covers the principles of watershed ecology, including principles and practice of community-based water monitoring and watershed management for developing and developed countries and data access and analysis using an online relational database and data-to-action strategies. Designed for students in science and public policy, including students interested in missions and development and agencies involved in environmental assessment and community development. Includes EPA certification with demonstrated proficiency in specific watershed stewardship skill. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 362 - Environmental Applications for Geographic Information Systems

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    Theory and application of spatial analysis for applied social and ecological problem-solving. This course combines GPS field data collection; ArcGIS use for storage, processing, interpretation, and presentation of data; location and integration of existing source information; and remote sensing integration with GIS applications. The course is designed around an environmental project to apply GIS techniques for real-world problem-solving in protecting and restoring ecosystems. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.
  

  • BIOA 471 - Conservation Biology

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 4
    Terms Offered: Summer, on demand

    Principles of conservation biology with applications to sustainable human society and biospheric integrity. An integrative approach to biology and society that interrelates population biology, ecological principles, biogeochemical cycles, ecosystem functions, and human society in the context of biospheric degradation. The course develops a stewardship perspective rooted in biological principles and directed at conservation of plant and animal species, biotic communities, ecosystems, and human society. Included are topics of human development, poverty, and economic growth. Prerequisite: BIOL 221 /BIOL 223  or BIOL 222 /BIOL 224 , and BIOL 362 . Course offered at Au Sable Institute. Travel to site required.

Biology
  

  • BIOL 101 - Biology - Human Perspective

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

    A conceptual investigation of biological principles from the human perspective - including historical, theoretical, ethical, and practical aspects. May be used to satisfy Science University Requirements. For non-biology majors.
  

  • BIOL 112 - General Biology I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    A consideration of the diversity of life, emphasizing organism classification, structure and function in plants and animals. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 114  required. A grade of “C” or better must be achieved to enroll in subsequent Biology courses. May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • BIOL 113 - General Biology II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    A consideration of the unity of life, emphasizing chemical and cellular organization, energy transfer through living systems, genetics, cellular information flow, ecology, and evolution/speciation. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 115  required. Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in BIOL 112  and BIOL 114 . A grade of “C” or better must be achieved to enroll in subsequent Biology courses. May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • BIOL 114 - General Biology I Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    Laboratory experiences considering the diversity of life. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 112  required. A grade of “C” or better must be achieved to enroll in subsequent Biology courses. May be used to satisfy University Requirements. Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 115 - General Biology II Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    Laboratory experience considering the unity of life. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 113  required. Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in BIOL 112  and BIOL 114 . A grade of “C” must be achieved to enroll in subsequent Biology courses. May be used to satisfy University Requirements. Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 203 - Basic Biology for Teachers

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring, even years

    Survey of the plant and animal kingdoms and life processes; interactions with the environment and ecosystems and the ecology of life; includes laboratory work. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. For non-biology majors; only for students seeking teacher certification in an area other than biology. Prerequisite: MATH 237  or Math ACT score of 20 or Math SAT score of 500. May be used to satisfy University Requirements. Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 221 - Animal Biology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    A study of the comparative structure, physiology, and development of invertebrates and vertebrates. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 223  required. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 .
  

  • BIOL 222 - Plant Biology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    A study of the historical, physiological, taxonomic, and ecological aspects of plants as well as their anatomic, reproductive, and adaptive responses to world environments. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 224  required. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 .
  

  • BIOL 223 - Animal Biology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring

    Laboratory and dissection experiences to understand the comparative structure, physiology, and development of invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 221  required. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 . Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 224 - Plant Biology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Laboratory experiences using scientific methods to understand the anatomy, physiology, and practical aspects of plants. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 222  required. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 . Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 291 - Anatomy and Physiology I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    A systems approach to human anatomy and physiology emphasizing the musculoskeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 293  required. Prerequisite: ACT Natural Sciences, 20 or above/950 or above on SAT; or a grade of “C” or better in BIOL 101 . For non-biology majors. May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • BIOL 292 - Anatomy and Physiology II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    A systems approach to human anatomy and physiology emphasizing the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and genitourinary systems. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 294  required. Prerequisite: BIOL 291  and BIOL 293 . For non-biology majors. May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • BIOL 293 - Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Laboratory study of topics covered in BIOL 291 . Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 291  required. For non-biology majors. May be used to satisfy University Requirements. Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 294 - Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Spring

    Laboratory study of topics covered in BIOL 292 . Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 292  required. For non-biology majors. May be used to satisfy University Requirements. Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 308 - Global Healthcare

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Summer, even years

    A study of healthcare delivery systems, quality of healthcare, and the impact of socioeconomic factors and culture on the delivery of healthcare through readings, discussion and interviews. Field experience will be gained through service-learning activities and observation within a medical community. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Corequisite: Participation in required shadowing, observation, and service components. Same as CHEM 308 , COMP 308 . May be used to satisfy University Requirements.
  

  • BIOL 309 - Medicinal Botany

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Summer, odd years

    A conceptual investigation of botanical medicines including historical, theoretical, ethical, and practical aspects with special emphasis on the investigation of botanicals in complementary and alternative medicines from a scientific perspective. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 . Course fee.
  
  
  

  • BIOL 330 - Neurobiology

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: on demand

    A consideration of the following topics: the neurophysiology of synaptic transmission, how sensory input is perceived and motor output is transmitted, and the location and function of the cranial nerve nuclei. Laboratory graded and credited with the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 312 .
  

  • BIOL 332 - Mind and Wellness

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall

    An investigation into the influences on health - physical, emotional and spiritual, with examples drawn from the Asian and Hispanic cultures. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 .
  

  • BIOL 345 - Range and Wildland Plants

    Lecture Hours: 2
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Identification, classification, multiple use and economic value of native and introduced range and wildland plants in the Southwest. Laboratory graded and credited with course. Prerequisite: Junior standing. Same as ENVR 345 . Special travel fee and lab fee.
  

  • BIOL 351 - Genetics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall

    Fundamental principles of genetics in plants and animals. Physical basis of inheritance, expression and interaction of genes, linkage, sex linkage, and the chemical nature of genetic material. Lecture may be taken without the lab. Prerequisite: BIOL 112 /BIOL 114  and BIOL 113 /BIOL 115 .
  

  • BIOL 353 - General Microbiology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Fall, on demand

    Principles of general microbiology including immunology, pathogenic microbiology, environmental, and industrial microbiology. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 354  required. For non-biology majors.
  

  • BIOL 354 - General Microbiology Lab

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    The study of cultivation and characterization of microorganisms, their identification, and microbiology of the environment. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 353  required. For non-biology majors. Course fee.
  

  • BIOL 355 - Microbiology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3
    Terms Offered: Spring

    A study of the cellular structure, metabolic pathways, regulatory, and genetic exchange mechanisms of microorganisms and how these relate to microbial roles in the biosphere, industry, and disease processes. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 357  required. Prerequisite: BIOL 312  or CHEM 223 . For biology and biochemistry majors.
  

  • BIOL 357 - Microbiology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1
    Terms Offered: Fall, Spring, on demand

    The study of cultivation and characterization of microorganisms, their identification, and the microbiology of the environment. Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 355  required. For biology and biochemistry majors. Course fee.
 

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