School of Professional Studies
School of Professional Studies
Graduation requirements and regulations for every academic program are provided in this catalog; however, this catalog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract. Degree and program requirements and course descriptions are subject to change.
In most cases, you will use the catalog of the year you entered KU (see your academic advisor for details). Other years’ catalogs»
Introduction
The School of Professional Studies, located at the University of Kansas Edwards Campus in Overland Park, KS, provides high-quality academic programs, research activities, and engaged learning initiatives that meet workforce, economic, and student needs. Our work is guided by our shared commitment to the values of collaboration, innovation, and social equity as we serve our students and the community. Depending on the program and semester, courses offered through the School of Professional Studies may be offered on the Edwards Campus, on the Lawrence Campus, or online in either an asynchronous or synchronous format.
Undergraduate Programs in the School of Professional Studies
The School of Professional Studies is an academic unit designed and charged with serving the workforce needs in the Kansas City metro area and nationally. The undergraduate programs in the School of Professional Studies are interdisciplinary in nature and are delivered in a variety of formats: in-person at the Edwards Campus, in-person at the Lawrence Campus, and online. These programs are aimed at preparing students for high demand workforce needs.
In partnership with their academic advisor, it is the students’ responsibility to become thoroughly acquainted with all requirements for the degree programs in which they plan to participate. These include all university requirements, as well as the requirements of the School of Professional Studies outlined in this section of the catalog. Students are also responsible for understanding the requirements that are unique to individual programs. By taking an active role in their undergraduate education, students maximize the value of their KU experience.
The School of Professional Studies offers a variety of degrees at the baccalaureate level:
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Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
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Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
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Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.)
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Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.)
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Bachelor of Heath Sciences (B.H.S.)
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Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.)
These programs are distinguished as follows:
The B.A. and B.S. degrees are structured to ensure both breadth and depth of knowledge through completion of Core 34 as well as course work in the major. The following identifies requirements unique to each degree:
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Bachelor of Arts: world language course sequence (i.e., American Sign Language, French, Spanish)
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Bachelor of Science: natural and physical science and quantitative reasoning courses
The B.A.S., B.G.S., B.H.S., and B.P.S. degrees are applied in nature and especially industry oriented. These degrees have a professional skills course requirement* and coursework in the major in addition to completion of Core 34. These degrees may allow technical credit from regionally accredited institutions (credit from specific A.A.S. degree programs) to be counted toward the minimum credit hour requirement of the degree.
* PFS 301, 302, or 303; HSCI 315 or 415; PMGT 410
View additional information about the School of Professional Studies academic programs.
Admission
Information on undergraduate admission standards, requirements, and processes is found within the program page in the catalog. Visit the Office of Admissions for information about admission to KU. Visit the Office of International Support Services for information about international admissions. Students interested in pursuing a degree in the School of Professional Studies should meet with an academic advisor to learn more degree requirements and future opportunities.
Advising
To ensure student success, all students in the School of Professional Studies will work with an academic advisor through their time at KU. Students begin working with academic advisors during Orientation and will be assigned an advisor going into their first semester at KU. Current students can login to view contact details and schedule an appointment with their advisor through Jayhawk GPS. Advisors provide ongoing support to students as they progress and work toward graduation. For advising information, contact 913-897-8539 or visit the School of Professional Studies website.
University Honors Program
The School of Professional Studies encourages qualified students to participate in the Honors Program. The honors program is here to help students get the most out of your college experience, whether transferring from a community college honors program, or preparing for the first year of college.
Graduate Programs in the School of Professional Studies
The School of Professional Studies is an academic unit that serves the needs of professionals in the Kansas City metro area and nationally. The graduate programs in the School of Professional Studies are interdisciplinary programs aimed at preparing students for high demand workforce needs.
The Master of Arts and Master of Science degree programs within the School of Professional Studies include these distinguishing characteristics:
Master of Arts:
- Core courses (12-24 credit hours)
- Elective courses (6-15 credit hours)
- Research and Practica or Capstone course (3-6 credit hours)
- Total credit hours: 30-36
- Discipline focus is in the arts and humanities
Master of Science:
- Core courses (12-24 credit hours)
- Concentration (12 credit hours) + Electives (0-9 credit hours)
- or Electives (6-15 credit hours)
- Research and Practica or Capstone course (3-6 credit hours)
- Total credit hours: 30-36
- Discipline focus is in scientific and technical fields
View additional information about the School of Professional Studies academic programs.
Degree Requirements
Requirements for the completion of graduate certificates and master’s degrees in the School of Professional Studies are governed by department- or program-specific policy, School policies and procedures, Graduate Studies policies, and the University Senate Rules and Regulations.
Information on degree requirements presented in this section is limited to the most frequently consulted policies and key milestones in the graduate career. Students will find additional information under the KU Policy Library, the Graduate Studies regulations sections of the online catalog, and the University of Kansas Rules and Regulations.
Admission
Information on graduate admission standards and requirements as well as application procedures is found within the program page in the catalog. Visit Graduate Studies Admission for information about admission to KU. Visit the Office of International Support Services for information about international admissions. Students interested in pursuing a degree in the School of Professional Studies are strongly encouraged to meet with an academic advisor to learn more about program requirements and future opportunities.
Advising
To ensure student success, all students in the School of Professional Studies will work with an academic advisor through their time at KU. Advisors work with students from the admissions process through graduation. For advising information, contact 785-864-0163 or visit https://sps.ku.edu/about/contact.
Undergraduate & Graduate Scholarships and Financial Aid
The School of Professional Studies seeks to provide academic programs that are accessible and affordable to all students and encourages students to carefully review tuition and fees as well as opportunities for financial aid.
Undergraduate Scholarships and Financial Aid
Academic scholarships, as well as grants, loans, and need-based financial aid, are available through Financial Aid and Scholarships.
Additional scholarship information unique to the School of Professional Studies and the Edwards Campus is also available.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships
Visit the Graduate Studies website for information about funding opportunities for graduate students at KU. Graduate programs in the School of Professional Studies do not currently offer Graduate Fellowships or Graduate Teaching Assistantships.
Financial Aid and Scholarships administers grants, loans, and need-based financial aid. Additional scholarship information unique to the School of Professional Studies and the Edwards Campus is also available.
For information about University regulations, see Regulations or visit the University of Kansas Policy Library.
Undergraduate Regulations
Absences
A student with excessive absences may be withdrawn from the course by the Dean. Instructors may require a certain level of attendance for passing a course and may drop a student for lack of attendance without the student’s consent.
Change of School
Students with a KU cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher (or in their first semester) can fill out a Change of School form requesting to be admitted to the School of Professional Studies from a different KU school. This process is for active KU students. Students not admitted to KU follow the University’s admission policy.
Credit/No Credit
A Credit/No Credit option is available to all degree-seeking undergraduates. Students may enroll in one course a semester under the option if the course is not in your major or minor. For more information, visit the KU Policy Library.
Warning: Certain undesirable consequences may result from exercising this option. Some schools, scholarship committees, and honorary societies do not accept this grading system and convert grades of No Credit to F when computing grade-point averages. Always check with your academic advisor before electing C/NC as policies vary from program to program.
Graduation with Distinction and Highest Distinction
Students who rank in the upper 10 percent (KU cumulative GPA) of their graduating class graduate with distinction. The upper third of those awarded distinction graduate with highest distinction. The list is compiled each spring and includes July, December, and May graduates.
Honor Roll (Dean’s List)
Students who earn a 3.75 grade point average or above in at least 6 credit hours for the semester are recognized on the honor roll or dean’s list in fall and spring. Credit/No Credit grades are not accepted. S grades are accepted. An honor roll notation appears on the transcript.
Maximum and Minimum Semester Enrollment
Maximum enrollment for undergraduate students in the School of Professional Studies is 18 credit hours in the fall or spring semester and 9 credit hours in a summer session. Students may appeal to their program for an exception.
Nonresidence Study Before the Last 30 Hours
Before the last 30 hours required for the degree, students may, under certain conditions, take courses at other institutions and transfer the credit to KU. Before enrolling in a nonresidence course, check on how your courses will transfer to KU. After completing the coursework, you must request that an official transcript be sent to the following mailing address: The University of Kansas, Office of the University Registrar, 1502 Building, 1502 Iowa St., Lawrence, KS 66045. For transcripts to be official, they must be mailed from the college or university directly to KU. Faxed transcripts are not accepted for posting of transfer credit. Nonresidence credit includes all credits from another college or university taken after initial enrollment at KU, military service courses, and other undergraduate course work not formally offered in the Schedule of Classes. Majors must submit the Request for Tentative Evaluation of Transfer Credit form before they enroll.
Prerequisites and Corequisites
Students are advised to enroll according to prerequisites and corequisites noted in individual course descriptions. Prerequisite waivers are used at the discretion of the Assistant Dean of the School of Professional Studies and the appropriate academic program director.
Academic Standing
Undergraduate student academic standing is assessed at the end of each term. Academic Standing includes the following statuses: Good Standing, Placed on Probation, Continued on Probation, and Dismissal.
Good Standing
Students with a KU cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher are in good academic standing.
Placed on Probation
A student whose KU cumulative grade-point average falls below a 2.0 is on placed on probation for the following semester.
Continued on Probation
A student on probation is continued on probation for one more semester if the KU semester grade-point average is not yet a 2.0 but progress is being made as determined by a faculty committee.
Returned to Good Standing
A student on probation is returned to good standing if the KU cumulative grade-point-average is at least 2.0.
Dismissal
A student on probation is dismissed for failure to earn a KU cumulative grade-point average of at least 2.0 in the next semester of enrollment or after two consecutive semesters on probation. Students who are dismissed are dropped from any courses enrolled in for future semesters. Students who are dismissed may appeal the dismissal through the School of Professional Studies faculty committee. A student reinstated is continued on probation and has one semester to return to good standing. Students dismissed by the School may apply to another KU school or College of Liberal Arts & Sciences by completing a Change of School form.
Reinstatement after Dismissal
Students who have been dismissed may apply for readmission through the regular admissions process. Students applying for readmission after dismissal must have successfully completed any requirements set by the School of Professional Studies for readmission, if any.
Repetition of Courses
The School of Professional Studies follows the University’s course repeat and grade replacement policy. See KU Policy library (2.3.9 Grade Replacement Policy in Repeat Courses) for details.
Required Work in Residence
To earn a bachelor’s degree from KU, you must complete the last 30 hours of credit for the degree by resident study. Students may petition the dean for a waiver. Up to 6 hours of work completed at another institution may be accepted as part of the last 30 hours, if the hours are not in required courses in the major. If a student completes more than 6 of the last 30 hours at another college, they must complete additional KU course work to graduate. Transfer courses must be completed with a C or higher. Always check with you advisor concerning enrollment as part of the last 30 hours of your degree.
Transfer of Credit
CredTran is an undergraduate transfer course equivalency system that lists more than 2,200 colleges and universities from which KU has accepted transfer courses in the past. If a student’s school or course is not listed, the evaluation will be completed when the student is admitted to KU.
Courses completed at other institutions are accepted to fulfill graduation requirements (e.g., in place of specifically prescribed courses) only if they are substantially equivalent as indicated by course description, hours of credit, and prerequisites. For courses not listed on CredTran, the student must submit a petition along with a course syllabus to the School of Professional Studies. Petition forms are available by contacting a School of Professional Studies academic advisor.
Only transfer grades of C- or higher apply toward graduation from the School of Professional Studies.
Graduate Regulations
It is the students’ responsibility to comply with all requirements for the degree programs in which they plan to participate. These include the university requirements for graduate study at KU as outlined in the Graduate Studies sections of the KU Policy Library, the University Senate Rules and Regulations, the Graduate Studies sections of the online catalog, as well as the requirements of the School of Professional Studies outlined in this catalog section. Additionally, students are responsible for understanding the requirements that are unique to individual graduate programs listed herein.
To ensure student support navigating these processes, all students in the School of Professional Studies will work with an academic advisor through their time at KU. Advisors work with students from the admissions process through graduation. To connect with your advisor, contact 785-864-0163. Each graduate student will also be assigned a faculty advisor who will provide guidance for the student throughout their program.
Admission
Graduate Studies defines the eligibility and admission criteria for different categories of admission to graduate study at the University of Kansas. Further details of program specific admission, provisional admission, and readmission information can be found in the Admissions section of the catalog for each graduate program.
Enrollment
Full-time, Half-Time and Part-Time Enrollment
Please see the Full-time Enrollment policy in the Graduate Studies section of the online catalog and the KU Policy Library for the definitions of full-time, half-time, and part-time enrollment.
Maximum enrollment for graduate students in the School of Professional Studies is 12 hours in fall or spring semester and 6 hours in the summer session. Students may appeal to their program for exceptions.
At a minimum, all graduate students must be continuously enrolled in the fall and spring semesters while completing the requirements for fulfillment of their degree. Please consult the Graduate Studies section of the online catalog and the KU Policy Library for other enrollment regulations.
Probation and Dismissal Guidelines
To be in good standing, a student must maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade-point average and be making satisfactory progress toward the degree, as determined by Graduate Studies' Good Academic Standing policy and the department or program's internal guidelines. The Good Academic Standing policy may be found in the Graduate Studies section of the online catalog and the KU Policy Library.
Probation Due to GPA
In any term, a student whose cumulative GPA has fallen below a 3.0 is automatically placed on academic probation for the following term (fall, spring, or summer). Students are notified by the School of Professional Studies of their probationary status. Students are removed from probation once the 3.0 cumulative GPA is regained. Once a student is on probation they must maintain at least a 3.0 term GPA to maintain progress towards removal from probation. Failure to do so will result in a review that could result in dismissal.
Dismissal
It is the academic unit’s responsibility to ensure that students who are not demonstrating academic achievement sufficient to meet the requirements of a School of Professional Studies graduate degree are dismissed from their programs. This typically occurs when a student fails to meet the terms of the probationary period. Academic dismissal should occur immediately following a student’s failure to meet the terms of the probationary period. The School will notify the student in writing of the reasons for their dismissal.
A student who has been dismissed from a graduate program at KU is not eligible for readmission to graduate study in any department or program at the University of Kansas. A student may petition for an exception. The petition must be approved by the department to which the student intends to apply, the graduate division of the College, and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Such petitions are rarely approved.
University Regulations on Grading
Article II of the University Senate Rules and Regulations provides detailed information on regulations governing the grading of graduate coursework. Students should also consult the Graduate Studies section of the online catalog and the KU Policy Library for more information on the Grading Policy.
Time Limits
The University has established time limits governing various stages of the graduate student career.
Maximum Time to Count Required Course Work
Courses completed at the University of Kansas, or transfer credits from another university, are valid for a period of 10 years. With the endorsement of their graduate programs, students may petition the School to accept out-of-date course work to fulfill the requirements for their graduate degrees, provided they are able to justify why this course work meets the current standards of scholarship in the discipline.
Maximum Time to Complete the Degree
Graduate Studies has established time limits on master’s and doctoral degree completion. Please see Graduate Studies policies on Doctoral Program Time Constraints and Master's Program Time Constraints in the Graduate Studies sections of the online catalog and in the KU Policy Library for full details. Master's degree students have a total of 7 calendar years, excluding any periods of absence due to an approved leave of absence or voluntary discontinuation from a program, in which to complete the work for a master’s degree.
A time limit extension may be granted by the School. All extension petitions require the department to prepare and submit a Graduate Degree Completion Agreement, which must then be approved by the School of Professional Studies Academic Council. Per Graduate Studies policy, extensions may be granted for up to 1 year. However, additional time may be requested in the Completion Agreement. If a Completion Agreement with a timeline greater than 1 year is approved, the department must submit a renewal petition annually after the first year until the Completion Agreement has ended. Renewal petitions must indicate the student's progress on the Completion Agreement and will receive expedited review.
Academic units may set their own, more rigorous time limits. Consult with your advisor and review your academic unit’s handbook and the relevant Departments and Programs section of the online catalog for program-specific information, requirements, and restrictions.
Academic and Research Integrity
The School of Professional Studies strictly enforces KU and School policies on academic and scholarly misconduct. Academic integrity requires honest performance of academic and research responsibilities by students. These include, but are not limited to, ethical preparation of assignments, reports, and research papers; completion of examinations; ethical treatment of human and animal subjects; execution of administrative requirements; and a sincere and conscientious effort by students to abide by the policies set forth by instructors and research advisors. See the School of Professional Studies website for procedures for misconduct and grievances.
Graduation
Graduate students must be enrolled the semester they complete degree requirements.
Graduate Studies establishes an early deadline for degree completion for each semester and summer session, usually occurring at the end of the first 2 weeks of a semester or the end of the first week of summer session. If the student was enrolled the previous semester and meets all degree requirements including the submission of all required documentation by the early deadline, they are not required to enroll for that semester.
The final Graduate Application for Graduation deadline is set by the Registrar for each semester. Please consult the official Academic Calendar for specific dates. To be eligible for graduation, an application for degree must be submitted and all degree requirements met by this deadline. This includes the submission of all required documentation to the School of Professional Studies.
Career
The School of Professional Studies and KU Edwards Campus is committed to helping you accomplish your career goals, and offers resources to help you find career solutions on how to navigate the career change process, career mobility, and/or develop strategies for that first career conversation.
University Career Center
The University Career Center, Summerfield Hall, 1300 Sunnyside Ave., Room 206, provides career counseling and services for all KU students, including students in the School of Professional Studies, both in person as well as online. Call 785-864-3624 for more information.
Courses
Students in the course will learn about the world of the deaf in America, deaf culture, the education of deaf children, useful technology, and the integration of deaf people into the American society. This introductory course is for students interested in fields, such as audiology; speech-language pathology; medicine; education; school, rehabilitation and mental health counseling; psychology; interpreting; ASL and deaf studies; and for anyone with a deaf person in his or her life. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 711. (Same as SPLH 311.)
This course brings students to the next level of understanding of the impact and role of various identities within the Deaf communities on the international and national levels, following the framework of intersectionality. Intersectionality conceptualizes the various identities, ethnicities, linguistic uses and experiences of persons, groups of people, or social problems in the world of deaf. Intersectionality looks at deaf people's overlapping identities and experiences in order to understand the complexity of prejudices they face due to their deaf, race, class, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and other identity markers. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 712.
ASLD 313. Social Justice and Allyship with Deaf Communities. 3 Credits.
Students are introduced to the concept of allyship as one of the tenets of social justice and the process of allyship and social justice in the Deaf communities. Allyship involves support and empowerment of individuals or people experiencing oppression. Within the Deaf communities, there are varieties of Deaf individuals or peoples, such as Deaf Blacks, Deaf Native Americans, and LGBTQI. Students will learn what it means to be an ally, a process of social justice. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 713. (Same as SPLH 313.) Prerequisite: ASLD 311 or instructor permission.
ASLD 414. Historical Foundations of Deaf Education. 3 Credits.
This course engages in the study of the development of deaf educational policy, practice, and theory in relation to changes in social institutions and thought regarding language, education and cultural and medical models in the education of and for the deaf. It focuses on the analysis of contemporary deaf educational problems in the light of historical perspectives. This course is offered at the 400 and 600 level with additional assignments at the 600 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 614.
ASLD 420. Sign Language and Cultural Analysis. 3 Credits.
The course explores the dynamic, two-way relationship between sign language and Deaf culture, viewing sign language not just as a tool for communication but as a social practice that shapes and reflects cultural values, identities, and power structures. The course also examines how social contexts influence sign language use, meaning-making, and linguistic forms, and conversely, how language constructs social reality and perpetuates cultural norms. Students will examine how social, linguistic and technology factors shape sign language as a linguistic minority and Deaf culture as a cultural minority.
ASLD 428. Special Topics in Deaf Studies: _____. 3 Credits.
Students will gain an in depth understanding of the social life of deaf people by choosing an area of focus. Since this is a special topics course, students, interested in gaining knowledge through research about deaf social life, will choose a timely area of study in a field, such as anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology, and sociology. An example of a timely area of study in Deaf Studies is Deaf gain. Through an individualized course design, students may choose the approach of immersion in Deaf community, defined literature review, or other activity to gain an in depth understanding. This course is offered at the 400 and 600 level with additional assignments at the 600 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 628 if topic is the same.
ASLD 450. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.
Investigation of a special research problem or directed reading in an area not covered in regular courses. No more than 6 hours of ASLD 450 may be counted toward the minimum hours required for the major. Prerequisite: Instructor consent.
ASLD 451. Directed Readings. 1-3 Credits.
This course is designed for the study of special topics related to American Sign Language and Deaf Studies at the Junior/Senior level. Prerequisite: Instructor consent.
ASLD 501. Introduction to the ASL/English Interpreting Profession. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to interpreting as an occupation. Students will come to understand the history of interpreting along with the importance of interpersonal communication skills, professional ethics, parameters of responsibilities, community resources and legal ramifications as they relate to the interpreter. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 701. Prerequisite: ASLD 505 with a minimum grade of "C" or instructor approval.
ASLD 502. Theories of Interpreting: Co-Constructions of Meaning. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to current theories in the processes of translation and interpreting through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply several theoretical constructs as they perform intra- and inter- lingual exercises. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 702. Prerequisite: ASLD 501 or ASLD 701 and ASLD 521 or ASLD 721 with a minimum of B or Instructor Approval.
ASLD 505. American Sign Language V (ASL V). 3 Credits.
This course is the expanded study of ASL IV with emphasis on increased conversation skills, vocabulary, storytelling, knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf community. Vocabulary is enhanced through the introduction of various content areas dealing with current events, world affairs, literature, the arts and abstract ideas. Students participate in-group discussions, speculate, make analogies, give instructions, and express feelings and intentions. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 705. Prerequisite: ASL IV with minimum grade of C or instructor approval. Students who have not taken ASL IV in more than 2 years or who believe they have ASL IV level proficiency are required to pass proficiency screening.
ASLD 506. American Sign Language VI (ASL VI). 3 Credits.
This course is continuing from ASLD 505 ASL V. Students focus on discourse, variation in sign language use, and understanding how the Deaf community is part of a linguistic and cultural minority. Topics that will be covered include perspectives on Deafhood, attitudes toward Deaf people and signed languages, technology and communication. Students will expand on vocabulary by working on areas of advanced subject matter, application of non-manual markers, use of classifiers, and proper pronominalization. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 706. Prerequisite: ASLD 505 or ASLD 705 with minimum grade of B or instructor approval. Students who have not taken ASL V in more than 2 years or who believe they have ASL V level proficiency, are required to pass proficiency screening.
ASLD 521. Discourse Analysis of ASL. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on analysis of ASL Discourse structure and features, such as use of space for cohesion, depiction, discourse markers, and use of classifiers. The course also focuses on the use of ASL discourse in formal and informal settings. Students study the genres of dialogues, public speaking, artistic expression, debate, persuasive and narrative styles in ASL. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 721. Prerequisite: ASL V with a minimum grade of C; B recommended or instructor approval.
ASLD 522. ASL Discourse. 3 Credits.
This course develops social and academic discourse skills in American Sign Language (ASL). Students will continue the development of ASL language skills both receptively and expressively by expanding on ASL social and academic vocabulary, grammar, syntax, transitions and conjunctions, constructed action and constructed discourse, and prosodic markers. ASL prosodic markers, along with language functions, serve unique communication purposes. Skills gained in this course advance receptive and expressive language functions in conversations, discussions, and presentations on various topics. Course instruction and activities require student participation in discussions and experiential learning as well as application of languaging in their discourse. Prerequisite: ASLD 505.
ASLD 524. Visual-Gestural Communication. 3 Credits.
Students will develop capabilities in non-verbal communication and visual gestural communication utilizing the study of gestures as a form of communication and basis for visual language. Emphasis is on learning to think visually in pictures and building production and comprehension communication skills. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 724. Prerequisite: SPED 503 with a minimum grade of C.
ASLD 530. American Sign Language Literature. 3 Credits.
This course will provide basic introduction, discussion, and demonstration of literature in American Sign Language (ASL). Such literature involves ASL Poetry, ASL Storytelling/ Narratives, Deaf Humor, Deaf Folklore and other genres that have been passed on from one generation to another by culturally Deaf people. Students will receive, analyze and retell a variety of ASL literature. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 730. Prerequisite: ASL IV or instructor approval.
This course provides opportunities for students to have direct interaction with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind community members in order to apply cultural, linguistic and power/privilege concepts learned in the classroom. Students must complete 50 hours per credit hour. Schedule will be determined by student and instructor. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 788. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.
ASLD 589. Research Experience in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies. 1-3 Credits.
This course guides the students in reading, understanding and evaluating current research in ASL, Deaf Studies, ASL/English interpreting and related fields. Students will learn how to publish a paper and present a poster on a chosen topic of their interest. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 789. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.
ASLD 601. Applied ASL Linguistics. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on how the theoretical aspects of American Sign Language (ASL) linguistics, such as its structure and grammar, are put into practice. They include the sociolinguistics of ASL, where the influence of social factors on ASL, including variation within the language and its use in different Deaf communities. The course combines linguistic study in the Deaf cultural context, history, and communicative use of ASL within the Deaf community. Students will study and apply the sociolinguistics of ASL in their practical, real-world interactions with Deaf people across Deaf cultural contexts and settings. Prerequisite: ASLD 505.
ASLD 603. Interpreting: Mediated Interactions in Communications. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to real-time interpreting in mediated interaction contexts through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply theories, decision-making and engage in reflective practice. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 803. Prerequisite: ASLD 501 or ASLD 701, ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with a minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 604. Interpreting: ASL to English. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to real-time interpreting with an emphasis on ASL source materials through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply theories and engage in reflective practice. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 804. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 605. Interpreting: English to ASL. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to real-time interpreting with an emphasis on English source materials through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply theories and engage in reflective practice. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 805. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 607. Ethics and Professionalization for Interpreters. 3 Credits.
This course examines ethics as it relates to the work of interpreting through study of ethical codes of conduct, models of decision-making and elements of becoming an ethical professional. Students will come to understand the complexities of ethical decision-making and the importance of self-awareness, reflective practice and responsibility as they consider implications on micro and macro levels. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 807. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 with a minimum grade of B.
ASLD 608. ASL/English Interpreting Observation Practicum. 1-6 Credits.
This practicum requires a minimum of 50 hours of observation, shadowing, teaming, professional responsibilities, duties, and/or activities (e.g., scheduling, preparation, invoicing, meetings, and in-service training) in authentic settings where interpreters are employed. Discussion and analysis will occur with instructor and peers on-line and in-person throughout the semester. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with a minimum grade of a B or instructor approval.
ASLD 609. Practicum in American Sign Language Interpreting. 1-6 Credits.
This practicum requires 250 hours of field experience which may include observation, shadowing, teaming, professional responsibilities, duties, and/or activities (e.g., scheduling, preparation, invoicing, meetings, and in-service training) in authentic settings where interpreters are employed. A minimum of 90 hours will be direct provision of interpreting under the supervision of a certified interpreter. Discussion and analysis will occur with instructor and peers on-line and in-person throughout the semester. Students will consult with their advisor prior to enrolling in the course. Students are required to complete a minimum of 3 credit hours to complete the ASLD 609 requirements. This 250 hour practicum may be completed in one semester by enrolling in 3 credit hours, or can be completed over multiple semesters. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 809. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803, ASLD 604 or ASLD 804, ASLD 605 or ASLD 805, ASLD 608 or ASLD 808 with a minimum grade of a B, and completion of an interpreting proficiency exam or instructor approval.
ASLD 610. Psychological Effects of Interpreting. 3 Credits.
This course examines both affective and cognitive psychological effects on interpreting practitioners. The importance of self-care, reflective practice, case-conferencing; as well as vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, role-space, power and privilege are among topics discussed. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 810. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 or instructor approval.
ASLD 614. Historical Foundations of Deaf Education. 3 Credits.
This course engages in the study of the development of deaf educational policy, practice, and theory in relation to changes in social institutions and thought regarding language, education and cultural and medical models in the education of and for the deaf. It focuses on the analysis of contemporary deaf educational problems in the light of historical perspectives. This course is offered at the 400 and 600 level with additional assignments at the 600 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 414. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or Instructor permission.
ASLD 616. Interpreting: Dynamic Paralinguistic Demands. 3 Credits.
This course examines a variety of paralinguistic demands in the context of interpreting. Types of demands will include emotional communication, accents, regional dialects, physical and mental factors (Cerebral Palsy, injuries, etc.), fast paced communication, etc. Students will apply interpreting theories, decision-making and reflective practice to both monologue and dialogic materials in both ASL and English. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 816. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803, ASLD 604 or ASLD 804, ASLD 605 or ASLD 805 with a minimum grade of a B or instructor approval.
ASLD 626. Topics in ASL Vocabulary and Discourse: _____. 3 Credits.
This course will expand the interpreter training students' vocabulary related to specialized fields and technical contexts. Students will enhance terminology in medical, mental health, education, religion, sex, drugs/alcohol and strong language/culturally rich ASL. Students' development of comprehension and production skills in common formal and informal settings will be emphasized. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 826 if topic is the same. Prerequisite: ASL IV or instructor approval.
ASLD 628. Special Topics in Deaf Studies: _____. 3 Credits.
Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the social life of deaf people by choosing an area of focus. Since this is a special topics course, students, interested in gaining knowledge through research about deaf social life, will choose a timely area of study in a field, such as anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology, and sociology. Through an individualized course design, students may choose the approach of immersion in Deaf community, defined literature review, or other activity to gain an in depth understanding. This course is offered at the 400 and 600 level with additional assignments at the 600 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 428 if topic is the same. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or instructor permission.
ASLD 631. Advanced American Sign Language Literature. 3 Credits.
This course analyzes and compares the various genres of American Sign Language literature. ASL poetry, narrative, humor, as well as written work by Deaf individuals and other language devices will be examined and discussed. Students will create and evaluate original work illustrating the similarities and uniqueness of ASL. Students will become familiar with well-known contributors such as: Clayton Valli, Patrick Graybill, Ella Mae Lentz, and the like. Research articles pertaining to ASL or Deaf Literature will be critiqued and discussed. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 831. Prerequisite: ASLD 505 or instructor approval.
ASLD 638. Topics in Interpreting: _____. 3 Credits.
This course provides the opportunity for experimentation with innovative course content and learning strategies in accordance with guidelines established by faculty. Topics include interpreting in specialized settings, current trends, etc. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 838 if topic is the same. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803, ASLD 604 or ASLD 804, ASLD 605 or ASLD 805 or instructor approval.
ASLD 701. Introduction to the ASL/English Interpreting Profession. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to interpreting as an occupation. Students will come to understand the history of interpreting along with the importance of interpersonal communication skills, professional ethics, parameters of responsibilities, community resources and legal ramifications as they relate to the interpreter. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 501.
ASLD 702. Theories of Interpreting: Co-Constructions of Meaning. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to current theories in the processes of translation and interpreting through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply several theoretical constructs as they perform intra- and inter- lingual exercises. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 502. Prerequisite: ASLD 501 or ASLD 701 and ASLD 521 or ASLD 721 with a minimum of a B or Instructor Approval.
ASLD 705. American Sign Language V (ASL V). 3 Credits.
This course is the expanded study of ASL IV with emphasis on increased conversation skills, vocabulary, storytelling, knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf community. Vocabulary is enhanced through the introduction of various content areas dealing with current events, world affairs, literature, the arts and abstract ideas. Students participate in-group discussions, speculate, make analogies, give instructions, and express feelings and intentions. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 505. Prerequisite: ASL IV with minimum grade of C or instructor approval. Students who have not taken ASL IV in more than 2 years or who believe they have ASL IV proficiency, are required to pass proficiency screening.
ASLD 706. American Sign Language VI (ASL VI). 3 Credits.
This course is continuing from ASLD 705 ASL V. Students focus on discourse, variation in sign language use, and understanding how the Deaf community is part of a linguistic and cultural minority. Topics that will be covered include perspectives on Deafhood, attitudes toward Deaf people and signed languages, technology and communication. Students will expand on vocabulary by working on areas of advanced subject matter, application of non-manual markers, use of classifiers, and proper pronominalization. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 506. Prerequisite: ASLD 505 or ASLD 705 with minimum grade of B or instructor approval. Students who have not taken ASL V in more than two years or who believe they have ASL V level proficiency, are required to pass proficiency screening.
ASLD 711. Introduction to Deaf Studies. 3 Credits.
Students in the course will learn about the world of the deaf in America, deaf culture, the education of deaf children, useful technology, and the integration of deaf people into the American society. This introductory course is for students interested in fields, such as audiology; speech-language pathology; medicine; education; school, rehabilitation and mental health counseling; psychology; interpreting; ASL and deaf studies; and for anyone with a deaf person in his or her life. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 311. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or Instructor permission.
ASLD 712. Intersectionality and Deaf Communities. 3 Credits.
This course brings students to the next level of understanding of the impact and role of various identities within the Deaf communities on the international and national levels, following the framework of intersectionality. Intersectionality conceptualizes the various identities, ethnicities, linguistic uses and experiences of persons, groups of people, or social problems in the world of deaf. Intersectionality looks at deaf people's overlapping identities and experiences in order to understand the complexity of prejudices they face due to their deaf, race, class, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and other identity markers. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 312. Prerequisite: Graduate standing or Instructor permission.
ASLD 713. Social Justice and Allyship with Deaf Communities. 3 Credits.
Students are introduced to the concept of allyship as one of the tenets of social justice and the process of allyship and social justice in the Deaf communities. Allyship involves support and empowerment of individuals or people experiencing oppression. Within the Deaf communities, there are varieties of Deaf individuals or peoples, such as Deaf Blacks, Deaf Native Americans, and LGBTQI. Students will learn what it means to be an ally, a process of social justice. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 313. Prerequisite: ASLD 311, ASLD 711 or Instructor permission.
ASLD 721. Discourse Analysis of ASL. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on analysis of ASL Discourse structure and features, such as use of space for cohesion, depiction, discourse markers, and use of classifiers. The course also focuses on the use of ASL discourse in formal and informal settings. Students study the genres of dialogues, public speaking, artistic expression, debate, persuasive and narrative styles in ASL. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 521. Prerequisite: ASL V with a minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 724. Visual-Gestural Communication. 3 Credits.
Students will develop capabilities in non-verbal communication and visual gestural communication utilizing the study of gestures as a form of communication and basis for visual language. Emphasis is on learning to think visually in pictures and building production and comprehension communication skills. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 524. Prerequisite: SPED 502 or SPED 702 with a minimum grade of C.
ASLD 730. American Sign Language Literature. 3 Credits.
This course will provide basic introduction, discussion, and demonstration of literature in American Sign Language (ASL). Such literature involves ASL Poetry, ASL Storytelling/ Narratives, Deaf Humor, Deaf Folklore and other genres that have been passed on from one generation to another by culturally Deaf people. Students will receive, analyze and retell a variety of ASL literature. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 530. Prerequisite: ASL IV or instructor approval.
ASLD 788. Field Experience in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies. 1-3 Credits.
This course provides opportunities for students to have direct interaction with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf Blind community members in order to apply cultural, linguistic and power/privilege concepts learned in the classroom. Students must complete a minimum of 50 hours per credit hour. Schedule will be determined by student and instructor. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 588. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.
ASLD 789. Research Experience in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies. 3 Credits.
This course guides the students in reading, understanding and evaluating current research in ASL, Deaf Studies, ASL/English interpreting and related fields. Students will learn how to publish a paper and present a poster on a chosen topic of their interest. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 589. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.
ASLD 803. Interpreting: Mediated Interactions in Communications. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to real-time interpreting in mediated interaction contexts through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply theories, decision-making and engage in reflective practice. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 603. Prerequisite: ASLD 501 or ASLD 701, ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with a minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 804. Interpreting: ASL to English. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to real-time interpreting with an emphasis on ASL source materials through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply theories and engage in reflective practice. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 604. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 805. Interpreting: English to ASL. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to real-time interpreting with an emphasis on English source materials through a lens of meaning-based analysis and co-construction of meaning. Students will come to understand and apply theories and engage in reflective practice. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 605. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with minimum grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 807. Ethics and Professionalization for Interpreters. 3 Credits.
This course examines ethics as it relates to the work of interpreting through study of ethical codes of conduct, models of decision-making and elements of becoming an ethical professional. Students will come to understand the complexities of ethical decision-making and the importance of self-awareness, reflective practice and responsibility as they consider implications on micro and macro levels. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 607. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803 or instructor approval.
ASLD 808. ASL/English Interpreting Observation Practicum. 1-6 Credits.
This practicum requires a minimum of 50 hours of observation, shadowing, teaming, professional responsibilities, duties, and/or activities (e.g., scheduling, preparation, invoicing, meetings, and in-service training) in authentic settings where interpreters are employed. Discussion and analysis will occur with instructor and peers on-line and in-person throughout the semester. Students will consult with their advisor prior to enrolling in the course. Each credit hour requires at least 50 hours of field experience. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 with a minimum grade of a B or instructor approval.
ASLD 809. Practicum in American Sign Language Interpreting. 1-6 Credits.
This practicum requires 250 hours of field experience which may include observation, shadowing, teaming, professional responsibilities, duties, and/or activities (e.g., scheduling, preparation, invoicing, meetings, and in-service training) in authentic settings where interpreters are employed. A minimum of 90 hours will be direct provision of interpreting under the supervision of a certified interpreter. Discussion and analysis will occur with instructor and peers on-line and in-person throughout the semester. Students will consult with their advisor prior to enrolling in the course. Students are required to complete a minimum of 3 credit hours to complete the ASLD 809 requirements. This 250 hour practicum may be completed in one semester by enrolling in 3 credit hours, or can be completed over multiple semesters. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 609. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803, ASLD 604 or ASLD 804, ASLD 605 or ASLD 805, ASLD 608 or ASLD 808 with a minimum grade of a B, and completion of an interpreting proficiency exam or instructor approval.
ASLD 810. Psychological Effects of Interpreting. 3 Credits.
This course examines both affective and cognitive psychological effects on interpreting practitioners. The importance of self-care, reflective practice, case-conferencing; as well as vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, role-space, power and privilege are among topics discussed. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 610. Prerequisite: ASLD 502 or ASLD 702 or instructor approval.
ASLD 816. Interpreting: Dynamic Paralinguistic Demands. 3 Credits.
This course examines a variety of paralinguistic demands in the context of interpreting. Types of demands will include emotional communication, accents, regional dialects, physical and mental factors (Cerebral Palsy, injuries, etc.), fast paced communication, etc. Students will apply interpreting theories, decision-making and reflective practice to both monologue and dialogic materials in both ASL and English. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 616. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803, ASLD 604 or ASLD 804, ASLD 605 or ASLD 805 with a minimum of grade of B or instructor approval.
ASLD 826. Topics in ASL Vocabulary and Discourse: _____. 3 Credits.
This course will expand the interpreter training students' vocabulary related to specialized fields and technical contexts. Students will enhance terminology in medical, mental health, education, religion, sex, drugs/alcohol and strong language/culturally rich ASL. Students' development of comprehension and production skills in common formal and informal settings will be emphasized. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 626 if topic is the same. Prerequisite: ASL IV or instructor approval.
ASLD 838. Topics in Interpreting: _____. 3 Credits.
This course provides the opportunity for experimentation with innovative course content and learning strategies in accordance with guidelines established by faculty. Topics include interpreting in specialized settings, current trends, etc. This course is offered at the 600 and 800 level with additional assignments at the 800 Level. Not open to students with credit in ASLD 638 if topic is the same. Prerequisite: ASLD 603 or ASLD 803, ASLD 604 or ASLD 804, ASLD 605 or ASLD 805 or instructor approval.
Courses
BSCI 315. Exploring Careers in Biological and Health Sciences. 1 Credits.
Through self-assessment, aligning individual strengths with career pathways, and connecting with industry professionals, students will explore a wide variety of health and science-related careers. This course will outline how to gain formative experiences and utilize networking opportunities to help gain opportunities in the future. Upon successful completion, students will have a primary career goal in mind that aligns with their interests.
BSCI 350. Genetics. 4 Credits.
Why are related individuals more similar than unrelated individuals and what is the basis for heritable traits? From Mendel's discoveries of the patterns of genetic inheritance, to the study of transmissible hereditary factors, genetics is central to understanding the biological sciences. Topics include molecular genetics and genetic engineering; Mendelian genetics and mapping; control of gene expression; cytogenetics; epigenetics and non-Mendelian genetics; and population and quantitative genetics. Examples are taken from a wide variety of organisms, including viruses, bacteria, plants, fungi, insects, and humans. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 350. Prerequisite: CHEM 135 or CHEM 175 or CHEM 195 and CHEM 196, with a grade of C- or higher and BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 with a grade of C- or higher; or consent of instructor.
BSCI 351. Genetics Laboratory. 3 Credits.
A laboratory course that provides hands-on experience with classical genetics and modern molecular genetics. Experiments involve Mendelian genetics (dominance/recessivity, complementation, segregation, independent assortment) in eukaryotic organisms; recombinant DNA; basic bacterial genetics; polymerase chain reaction; DNA sequencing; and computational genetics. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 405. Prerequisite: Concurrent or prior enrollment in BSCI 350 or BIOL 350.
The course focuses on the structure and function of prokaryotic cells and viruses, cultivation, growth and death of bacteria, microbial metabolism, basic immunology, microbial ecology, and the diversity and classification of organisms that the field encompasses. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 400 or BIOL 401. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 with a grade of C- or higher and two semesters of college chemistry with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of the instructor.
BSCI 401. Microbiology Laboratory. 3 Credits.
The BSL-2 laboratory focuses on developing techniques and skills to grow, manipulate, and handle microscopic organisms (specifically bacteria) using aseptic techniques and various types of growth media and incubation conditions. In addition, students will learn how to use a microscope and perform several immunological tests (such as agglutination and ELISA) to identify microbes. During the course, students will become familiar with many human health and environmentally related bacterial groups and species, some of which are disease causing. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 402. Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in BSCI 400 or BIOL 400.
BSCI 415. Career Readiness in Biological and Health Sciences. 2 Credits.
Through creating a career development plan, students will identify specific, achievable career goals and then design and implement strategies to reach them. This course will help students identify and articulate marketable skills through written and verbal communication and demonstrate how to convey transferable skills to employers through resumes, cover letters, and interviews in preparation for the capstone experience/internship in Health Science.
BSCI 416. Cell Structure and Function. 3 Credits.
The course focuses on molecular cell biology with emphasis on experimental approaches to understanding cell function; topics include biological membranes and transmembrane transport, vesicular trafficking (secretion and endocytosis), cell signaling, cell motility and the cytoskeleton, and the regulation of the cell division cycle. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 416. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151; BSCI 350 or BIOL 350 or BIOL 360; CHEM 130, or CHEM 170, or CHEM 190 and CHEM 191; and CHEM 135, or CHEM 175, or CHEM 195 and CHEM 196; or consent of the instructor.
BSCI 417. Developmental Biology. 3 Credits.
A general course designed to introduce students to the developmental biology of animals. Emphasis is placed on understanding how a single-celled fertilized egg develops into a complex multicellular organism by the processes of cell division, differentiation, growth, and morphogenesis. Lectures stress experimental approaches to investigating development, including classic embryology and modern molecular genetics. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 417. Prerequisite: BSCI 350 or BIOL 350 and BSCI 416 or BIOL 416 or consent of the instructor.
BSCI 421. Topics in Applied Biological Sciences: _____. 3 Credits.
Lecture instruction and the preparation and presentation of oral and written reports on selected topics from the recent research literature in molecular biosciences. Students may enroll in a given topic only once. Prerequisite: Course work varying with the topic of the seminar; or consent of instructor.
BSCI 430. Molecular Biology Laboratory. 3 Credits.
BSCI 435. Neurobiology. 3 Credits.
The focus for this course will be on the nature of communication among nerve cells and their targets. Topics will include the development, structure and function of nerve cells, chemistry of neurotransmission, processing and integration including the cellular and molecular basis of higher functions and neurological disorders. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 435. Prerequisite: BSCI 350 or BIOL 350 and BSCI 416 or BIOL 416 or consent of the instructor.
This course provides credit for supervised practical experiences in an occupational area of interest. In addition to the work-related activity, students will be expected to complete reading and writing assignments, participate in on-line discussions, and create a final summary of internship accomplishments. Hours of credit earned (1-6) are based on number of hours at internship site and agreement of instructor. Repeatable for up to 6 credit hours, provided the internship experiences are different. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
BSCI 503. Immunology. 3 Credits.
A molecular and cellular based approach to understanding the immune system by characterizing both the innate and adaptive immune systems and their functions. Emphasis is placed on the adaptive immune response, including humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity, antigens and antigen recognition, immunoglobulins, B cell and T cell development, activation, and differentiation, and the effector functions of these different cells and branches of the immune system to create a comprehensive response to defend the body against pathogens. Other topics include immune system dysfunction (hypersensitivities, autoimmunity, and immunodeficiencies) as well as vaccine mechanisms. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 503. Prerequisite: BSCI 400, BIOL 400 or BIOL 401, or consent of instructor.
BSCI 506. Bacterial Infectious Diseases. 3 Credits.
Explores bacterial infectious diseases from the perspective of how disease is established and the mechanisms that underlie disease, as well as how to treat and prevent infectious disease. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 506. Prerequisite: BSCI 400, BIOL 400 or BIOL 401 with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of instructor.
BSCI 512. Virology. 3 Credits.
Lectures and discussions covering the basic nature and characteristics of viruses from a general biological point of view: viruses of bacteria, animals and plants, physical-chemical properties; host cell-viral interactions; mode of replication of DNA and RNA viruses, tumor viruses. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 512. Prerequisite: BSCI 400, BIOL 400, or BIOL 401 with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of instructor.
BSCI 540. Biology Capstone I. 3 Credits.
A project-based course that challenges students to develop, plan, execute, and communicate the results of a biology related research project. Students will be guided through the initial stages of project/experimental design, project management, logistics, and technical training necessary to complete their project. By the end of this course students will have chosen a project and completed its design.
BSCI 546. Mammalian Physiology. 3 Credits.
An intermediate course in the structures, functions, mechanisms, and interactions of mammalian organ systems. Discussions span topics from molecular to whole animal functions. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 546. Prerequisite: BIOL 150; BIOL 152 or BIOL 240; and CHEM 330 or consent of instructor.
A synthesis and discussion of current trends in the biological sciences as it relates to student interests and career paths. Emphasis is placed on providing seniors with an appreciation of the discipline's state-of-the-art and on developing skills for success in the next stage of a career in the biological sciences by using peer-reviewed research papers to work on communication and presentation of scientific topics to different audiences. Prerequisite: Must be taken in the final year of a degree and students must have completed most of the course work required for one of the degrees in the biological sciences.
BSCI 600. Biochemistry. 3 Credits.
Designed to offer the essentials of the chemistry of the constituents of living organisms and the changes these constituents undergo (during life processes) in the human body and other living forms. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 600. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 and one semester of organic chemistry.
BSCI 601. Biochemistry Laboratory. 2 Credits.
Theory and methods in the development of protein separation and purification, enzyme structure/function, and enzyme kinetics derived from primary literature searches and readings. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 601. Prerequisite: Corequisite: BIOL 600 or BSCI 600; or consent of instructor.
BSCI 612. Microbiology. 3 Credits.
Lectures. Fundamental principles of microbiology with emphasis in physical and chemical properties of the bacterial cell; microbial metabolism, cultivation, growth and death of bacteria; microbial genetics; pathogenesis and immunity, industrially important microorganisms. Meets with BSCI 400, but students will be given additional and more advanced assignments, and will carry higher expectations. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 612. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 and two semesters of college chemistry, or consent of instructor.
Students will execute their proposed project plan with guidance. Emphasis is placed on working with a team, gathering and analyzing data, and instituting quality controls/quality assurance protocols. Students will communicate the results of their project through a combination of an oral presentation, paper, and poster. Prerequisite: BSCI 540.
Courses
BTEC 300. Research Methods in Biotechnology. 3 Credits.
An integrated lecture and laboratory course exploring the science and basic laboratory skills used in food science, agricultural science, pharmaceutical science, clinical medicine, animal health, and environmental science. Survey of career opportunities in biotechnology. Guest lectures from field-experts in biotechnology. Prerequisite: Students must be currently enrolled or have prior completion of CHEM 330 to enroll in the course.
BTEC 305. Molecular and Microbiological Techniques. 4 Credits.
An integrated lecture and laboratory course exploring the science and tools used in microbiology-based fields. A strong focus is placed on developing functional scientific skills required to run an R&D or Production Lab. Students will survey the diversity of microbial life while becoming proficient in the tools that are used extensively in the laboratory. We emphasize hands-on experience with lab techniques applicable to addressing a variety of scientific problems. Specifically, this course will challenge students to apply their knowledge and skills to construct and express recombinant proteins in mammalian cells, purify, and quantitate their products. Prerequisite: Concurrent or prior enrollment in BIOL 350 and BTEC 300; or consent of instructor.
BTEC 310. Scientific Communications. 3 Credits.
Theory and practicum exploring communications relevant to careers in science. This course will explore the fundamentals of clear, effective communications in written and oral formats. Students will gain experience communicating in a variety of real-world situations with technical and lay audiences. Particular emphasis will be placed on the communications occurring within the work place setting. Students will also be challenged to build a network with the biotech industries through external events. Prerequisite: Written Communication KU Core 34 Goal or consent of instructor. Students must be in their junior or senior year of a science-related degree.
BTEC 315. Exploring Careers in Biological and Health Sciences. 1 Credits.
Through self-assessment, aligning individual strengths with career pathways, and connecting with industry professionals, students will explore a wide variety of health and science-related careers. This course will outline how to gain formative experiences and utilize networking opportunities to help gain opportunities in the future. Upon successful completion, students will have a primary career goal in mind that aligns with their interests. Formerly known as BSCI 315.
BTEC 350. Genetics. 4 Credits.
Why are related individuals more similar than unrelated individuals and what is the basis for heritable traits? From Mendel's discoveries of the patterns of genetic inheritance, to the study of transmissible hereditary factors, genetics is central to understanding the biological sciences. Topics include molecular genetics and genetic engineering; Mendelian genetics and mapping; control of gene expression; cytogenetics; epigenetics and non-Mendelian genetics; and population and quantitative genetics. Examples are taken from a wide variety of organisms, including viruses, bacteria, plants, fungi, insects, and humans. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 350. Formerly known as BSCI 350. Prerequisite: CHEM 135 or CHEM 175 or CHEM 195 and CHEM 196, with a grade of C- or higher and BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 with a grade of C- or higher; or consent of instructor.
BTEC 351. Genetics Laboratory. 3 Credits.
A laboratory course that provides hands-on experience with classical genetics and modern molecular genetics. Experiments involve Mendelian genetics (dominance/recessivity, complementation, segregation, independent assortment) in eukaryotic organisms; recombinant DNA; basic bacterial genetics; polymerase chain reaction; DNA sequencing; and computational genetics. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 405. Formerly known as BSCI 351. Prerequisite: Concurrent or prior enrollment in BSCI 350, BTEC 350 or BIOL 350.
BTEC 400. Applied Immunology. 3 Credits.
An integrated lecture and laboratory course exploring the fundamentals of immunology. The course focuses on developing a conceptual knowledge of the constituents and processes of the immune system. Students will develop a functional understanding of how to operate and apply current immunology-based techniques. Laboratory activities will explore the use of immunological tools for research, discovery, and analysis of processes and experimental compounds. Prerequisite: BTEC 300; BTEC 305; or consent of instructor.
BTEC 402. Microbiology. 3 Credits.
The course focuses on the structure and function of prokaryotic cells and viruses, cultivation, growth and death of bacteria, microbial metabolism, basic immunology, microbial ecology, and the diversity and classification of organisms that the field encompasses. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 400 or BIOL 401. Formerly known as BSCI 400. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 with a grade of C- or higher and two semesters of college chemistry with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of the instructor.
BTEC 403. Microbiology Laboratory. 3 Credits.
The BSL-2 laboratory focuses on developing techniques and skills to grow, manipulate, and handle microscopic organisms (specifically bacteria) using aseptic techniques and various types of growth media and incubation conditions. In addition, students will learn how to use a microscope and perform several immunological tests (such as agglutination and ELISA) to identify microbes. During the course, students will become familiar with many human health and environmentally related bacterial groups and species, some of which are disease causing. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 402 or BSCI 401. Formerly known as BSCI 401. Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in BTEC 402, BSCI 400 or BIOL 400.
BTEC 415. Career Readiness in Biological and Health Sciences. 2 Credits.
Through creating a career development plan, students will identify specific, achievable career goals and then design and implement strategies to reach them. This course will help students identify and articulate marketable skills through written and verbal communication and demonstrate how to convey transferable skills to employers through resumes, cover letters, and interviews in preparation for the capstone experience/internship in Health Science. Formerly known as BSCI 415.
BTEC 416. Cell Structure and Function. 3 Credits.
The course focuses on molecular cell biology with emphasis on experimental approaches to understanding cell function; topics include biological membranes and transmembrane transport, vesicular trafficking (secretion and endocytosis), cell signaling, cell motility and the cytoskeleton, and the regulation of the cell division cycle. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 416. Formerly known as BSCI 416. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151; BTEC 350 or BSCI 350 or BIOL 350 or BIOL 360; CHEM 130, or CHEM 170, or CHEM 190 and CHEM 191; and CHEM 135, or CHEM 175, or CHEM 195 and CHEM 196; or consent of the instructor.
BTEC 417. Developmental Biology. 3 Credits.
A general course designed to introduce students to the developmental biology of animals. Emphasis is placed on understanding how a single-celled fertilized egg develops into a complex multicellular organism by the processes of cell division, differentiation, growth, and morphogenesis. Lectures stress experimental approaches to investigating development, including classic embryology and modern molecular genetics. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 417. Formerly known as BSCI 417. Prerequisite: BTEC 350 or BSCI 350 or BIOL 350 and BTEC 416 or BSCI 416 or BIOL 416 or consent of the instructor.
BTEC 424. Independent Study in Biotechnology. 3 Credits.
Independent project at a related bioscience industry partner or faculty in selected topics of current translational research interest. May be undertaken only with the consent of the major advisor who will guide the research after determining objectives with the interested industry partner or faculty. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
BTEC 430. Evidence Handling and Testimony in the Courts. 3 Credits.
Focuses on types of evidence, the role of chain of custody in handling evidence, and accepted standards and professional practices as they relate to the relationship between forensic scientists and other forensic practitioners and the courts. The ethical obligations of a forensic scientist, the role an expert witness plays within the court system, and developing an understanding of behavioral and ethical issues that can be encountered from crime scene investigation through to the courtroom are discussed.
BTEC 435. Neurobiology. 3 Credits.
The focus for this course will be on the nature of communication among nerve cells and their targets. Topics will include the development, structure and function of nerve cells, chemistry of neurotransmission, processing and integration including the cellular and molecular basis of higher functions and neurological disorders. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 435. Formerly known as BSCI 435. Prerequisite: BTEC 350 or BSCI 350 or BIOL 350 and BTEC 416 or BSCI 416 or BIOL 416 or consent of the instructor.
BTEC 475. Applied Separation Science and Quantitative Analysis. 6 Credits.
An integrated lecture and laboratory course exploring the fundamentals of separation science and quantitative analysis of small molecules, peptides, and proteins. Students will be challenged to develop a functional understanding of the theory and application of sample preparation, separation technologies, and methods for quantification. Prerequisite: BTEC 300; or consent of instructor.
BTEC 494. Selected Topics in Biotechnology: _____. 1 Credits.
A synthesis and discussion of current trends related to biotechnology. Emphasis is placed on providing students with an awareness of advances on the leading edge of discovery, critically analyzing data, and developing skills for success in the next stage of a career in biotechnology. This course can be repeated for up to 2 credit hours. Prerequisite: Concurrent or prior enrolment in BTEC 300; or consent of instructor. Students must be in their junior or senior year of a biology-related degree.
BTEC 495. MCAT Preparation Course. 4 Credits.
The MCAT Preparation course is a 4-credit hour elective designed to help students prepare for the Medical College Admission Test. In collaboration with testing services, this course assists students in creating a customized study plan through a robust curriculum, strategies for testing, and in-depth content reviews. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. Formerly known as HSCI 495.
BTEC 498. Pathways in Health Profession Careers. 1 Credits.
This course provides an integrated approach through individual pre-health coaching and peer group reflection. Students will explore exercises that identify their individual strengths and align them with career goals. Through creating actionable plans, students will focus on broadening professional experiences and improving underdeveloped aspects of their application for professional programs in the health sciences. By the end of the course, students will have detailed an inventory of their professional experiences and a resume that clearly reflects them. Students will practice articulating their strengths through written materials and designing an entrance exam study plan. Through informational interviews, students will gain a clearer understanding of interprofessional teams and opportunities for alternative pathways in health careers. Formally known as HSCI 498.
Student investigations and discussions of current controversial issues in biotechnology. This course emphasizes thinking about new technologies in a rational and thoughtful way. Prerequisite: BTEC 300.
BTEC 503. Immunology. 3 Credits.
A molecular and cellular based approach to understanding the immune system by characterizing both the innate and adaptive immune systems and their functions. Emphasis is placed on the adaptive immune response, including humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity, antigens and antigen recognition, immunoglobulins, B cell and T cell development, activation, and differentiation, and the effector functions of these different cells and branches of the immune system to create a comprehensive response to defend the body against pathogens. Other topics include immune system dysfunction (hypersensitivities, autoimmunity, and immunodeficiencies) as well as vaccine mechanisms. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 503. Formerly known as BSCI 503. Prerequisite: BTEC 402, BSCI 400, BIOL 400 or BIOL 401, or consent of instructor.
BTEC 506. Bacterial Infectious Diseases. 3 Credits.
Explores bacterial infectious diseases from the perspective of how disease is established and the mechanisms that underlie disease, as well as how to treat and prevent infectious disease. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 506. Formerly known as BSCI 506. Prerequisite: BTEC 402, BSCI 400, BIOL 400 or BIOL 401 with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of instructor.
BTEC 512. Virology. 3 Credits.
Lectures and discussions covering the basic nature and characteristics of viruses from a general biological point of view: viruses of bacteria, animals and plants, physical-chemical properties; host cell-viral interactions; mode of replication of DNA and RNA viruses, tumor viruses. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 512. Formerly known as BSCI 512. Prerequisite: BTEC 402, BSCI 400, BIOL 400, or BIOL 401 with a grade of C- or higher, or consent of instructor.
BTEC 520. Forensic Techniques I. 3 Credits.
This is one of two laboratory courses designed to provide hands-on experience with fundamental forensic science techniques and methodologies. This course covers essential areas of forensic investigation related to primary physical evidence including: fingerprinting, impression evidence (footprints and tire track analysis), microscopy (hair, fiber, and trace evidence), ballistics and tool marks, serology (blood pattern analysis and body fluid testing), and the basics of forensic pathology and anthropology (using and analyzing human remains). Students will engage in practical exercises that simulate real-world forensic scenarios, developing critical skills in evidence collection, preservation, analysis, and interpretation. Prerequisite: CRIM 355.
BTEC 530. Forensic Techniques II. 3 Credits.
This is one of two laboratory courses designed to provide hands-on experience with fundamental forensic science techniques and methodologies. This course covers essential areas of forensic investigation related to molecular and chemical evidence including: forensic Biology (DNA and genetic testing), forensic Chemistry (spectrometry and explosives/flammables), and toxicology (drug and alcohol testing). Students will engage in practical exercises that simulate real-world forensic scenarios, developing critical skills in evidence collection, preservation, analysis, and interpretation. Prerequisite: BTEC 520 and college level biology course and college level chemistry course.
BTEC 540. Biotechnology Capstone I. 3 Credits.
A project-based course that challenges students to develop, plan, execute, and communicate the results of a biotech-related project. Students will be guided through the initial stages of project design, project management, logistics, and technical training necessary to complete their project. This course is the first of a two semester series (BTEC 540 & BTEC 640.) Prerequisite: Students must have completed BTEC 305 and BTEC 475.
BTEC 546. Mammalian Physiology and Anatomy. 3 Credits.
An intermediate course in the structures, functions, mechanisms, and interactions of mammalian organ systems. Discussions span topics from molecular to whole animal functions. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 546. Formerly known as BSCI 546. Prerequisite: BIOL 150; BIOL 152 or BIOL 240; and CHEM 330 or consent of instructor.
BTEC 550. Applied Bioinformatics. 2 Credits.
Overview of the fields of bioinformatics and genomics. Topics, tools, issues and current trends in these and related fields are discussed. Principles and practical application of bioinformatics tools in molecular biology, genetics, and electronic medical records are evaluated. The haploid human genome occupies a total of just over 3 billion DNA base pairs. The medical records of a population contain clues concerning better identification and treatment of disease. This information is not contained in books, but stored in electronic databases. This course is designed for life scientists from all fields to introduce them to the power of bioinformatics and enable them to access and utilize biological information in databases for their own research. Prerequisite: BTEC 300; BIOL 570 or MATH 107 or MATH 365 (preferred); consent of instructor.
BTEC 599. Biotechnology Internship. 1-6 Credits.
BTEC 600. Biochemistry. 3 Credits.
Designed to offer the essentials of the chemistry of the constituents of living organisms and the changes these constituents undergo (during life processes) in the human body and other living forms. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 600. Formerly known as BSCI 600. Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or BIOL 151 and one semester of organic chemistry.
BTEC 601. Biochemistry Laboratory. 2 Credits.
Theory and methods in the development of protein separation and purification, enzyme structure/function, and enzyme kinetics derived from primary literature searches and readings. Not open to students with credit in BIOL 601. Formerly known as BSCI 601. Prerequisite: Corequisite: BIOL 600 or BTEC 600 or BSCI 600; or consent of instructor.
BTEC 630. Biotechnology, Regulation, Quality Control, and Quality Assurance. 3 Credits.
An integrated lecture and laboratory course exploring quality control, quality assurance, and regulatory considerations. Hands-on experimentation will develop a functional understanding of protocol design and a practical knowledge of GXP-guided processes. This course will focus on issues relevant to manufacturing, packaging, labeling, testing, and control of pharmaceutical products. Guest lectures from field-experts in the biotechnology industry.
A project-based course that challenges students to develop, plan, execute, and communicate the results of a biotech-related project. Students will be guided through the execution of their proposed plan with particular emphasis placed on managing scientists, gathering and analyzing data, and instituting quality controls/quality assurance protocols. Students will communicate the results of their project through a combination of an oral presentation and poster. This course is the second of a two semester series (BTEC 540 & BTEC 640.) Prerequisite: BTEC 540; or consent of instructor.
Courses
CRIM 115. Notorious Kansas Murders and Murderers. 3 Credits.
Unlock the mysteries behind some of Kansas' most notorious murders and murderers. Delve into the realms of criminal psychology, modus operandi (MO), and the age-old debate of whether killers are products of nurture or nature. Through a blend of theory and real-life case studies, this course will provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricate web of murder investigations. Students will take an in-depth look at some of Kansas' most infamous murderers, including Richard Grissom, Dennis Rader (BTK), John Robinson, and Lisa Montgomery. Students will analyze their cases, examine the impact on their communities, and unravel the mysteries surrounding their crimes.
CRIM 215. Criminal Activity of Bonnie and Clyde. 3 Credits.
Students delve into the thrilling and tumultuous lives of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, one of the most infamous criminal duos in American history. This course explores the criminal exploits, social context, and lasting legacy of Bonnie and Clyde, shedding light on the romanticized outlaws who captured the imagination of a nation during the Great Depression. Students will engage in critical analysis of primary sources, documentaries, films, and scholarly articles. They will also explore ethical dilemmas surrounding the glorification of criminals and their enduring place in popular culture. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of Bonnie and Clyde's criminal activities, the social context of their time, and the enduring legacy of their legend in American history and culture.
This course is an introductory survey of the American criminal justice system. The course provides a background in criminal justice institutions, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The course focuses on the process of the criminal justice system and various viewpoints within the process (employees, crime victims, offenders, and the general public).
CRIM 310. Theoretical and Historical Foundations of Criminology. 3 Credits.
This course explores the history and theoretical foundations of criminal justice and criminology. Students will examine the philosophical assumptions and socio-cultural context that make up the field.
CRIM 315. CSI: Fact vs Fiction. 3 Credits.
This course will analyze the world of crime scene investigation (CSI) as portrayed on television and compare it to the realities in law enforcement. Students will examine how closely the thrilling scenarios on their favorite crime shows mirror the realities of forensic science, investigative procedures, and real-world application. Course topics include but are not limited to crime scene protocols, forensic techniques, and evidence collection.
CRIM 320. Research Methods and Data Driven Decision Making in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to research methods used within criminal justice scholarship. Students will develop an understanding of how data is collected, analyzed, and used as part of the decision making process within organizations and as part of policy development.
CRIM 325. Preventing Crime: What Works. What Doesn’t.. 3 Credits.
This course delves into the critical examination of policing strategies, focusing on what works, what doesn't, and what holds promise for the future. Drawing from evidence-based research, real-world practices, and field experiences, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing policing effectiveness, the methods employed to assess it, and the implications for law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. The knowledge gained from this course prepares students for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, policy analysis, and related fields, where they can contribute to improving the effectiveness and accountability of policing agencies.
CRIM 330. Policing. 3 Credits.
The course explores policing in America, covering the history of policing and law enforcement, contemporary police work, and current issues in police reform. The course will cover police discretion, professionalism, and police-community interactions.
CRIM 340. Courts and Sentencing. 3 Credits.
This course explores the history, development, and current processes of dispute resolution and courts in the American system. The course emphasizes activities of lawyers, judges, and related professionals. Current issues of court policy and sentencing practices are also explored.
CRIM 355. Crime Scene Investigation. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of crime scene investigation (CSI). Students will learn the fundamental techniques for processing and analyzing crime scenes, including evidence collection, documentation, and preservation. Topics include forensic photography, fingerprint analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis, and the use of advanced technologies in CSI. Through hands-on simulations and case studies, students will develop critical skills in crime scene processing and investigative procedures. The course emphasizes the importance of maintaining chain of custody, adherence to legal standards, and collaboration with forensic experts. This foundational course prepares students for careers in law enforcement, forensic science, and criminal investigation by providing practical experience in real-world crime scene scenarios.
CRIM 357. Investigations, Evidence, and Interviewing. 3 Credits.
This course provides an in-depth examination of criminal investigations, focusing on the role of the investigator, legal aspects of investigation, and effective strategies for gathering physical evidence, conducting interviews and interrogations, and preparing detailed field notes and reports. Students will explore various crime types, including human trafficking, cybercrime, arson, and drug offenses, while learning about the crime lab's function and the investigator's responsibilities throughout the trial process, including testifying as a witness.
CRIM 365. Crime and Intelligence Analysis. 3 Credits.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of crime and intelligence analysis within the criminal justice system. Students will learn the theoretical foundations, methodologies, and practical applications of analyzing crime data and intelligence. The curriculum covers techniques such as crime mapping, statistical analysis, and predictive policing. Emphasis is placed on understanding the role of intelligence in preventing and solving crimes, as well as the ethical and legal considerations involved. Through hands-on projects and case studies, students will develop the skills necessary to effectively utilize crime and intelligence analysis in various criminal justice settings.
CRIM 366. Spatial Analysis of Crime. 3 Credits.
This course explores advanced techniques and methodologies for analyzing the spatial patterns and distribution of crime. Students will delve into geographic information systems (GIS), spatial statistics, and mapping technologies used to study crime hotspots, trends, and clusters. Through hands-on projects and case studies, students will learn to apply spatial analysis tools to identify crime patterns, understand their underlying causes, and develop targeted intervention strategies. The course also examines the ethical and practical considerations of using spatial data in criminal justice, preparing students to leverage spatial analysis for evidence-based decision-making and crime prevention efforts.
CRIM 370. Incarceration Alternatives, Rehabilitation and Re-Entry. 3 Credits.
This course explores innovative approaches to criminal justice that focus on reducing incarceration rates through alternative sentencing, rehabilitation programs, and successful re-entry strategies. Students will examine the effectiveness of community-based corrections, restorative justice practices, and rehabilitation programs designed to address the root causes of criminal behavior. Through course content, case studies, and guest lectures, participants will gain insights into the challenges and successes of reintegrating formerly incarcerated individuals into society. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the policies and practices that promote a more humane and effective criminal justice system.
CRIM 375. Terrorism and Homeland Security. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive examination of terrorism, counterterrorism strategies, and homeland security measures. Students will study the history, ideologies, and tactics of terrorist organizations, as well as the impact of terrorism on national and global security. Topics include threat assessment, intelligence gathering, emergency response protocols, and the role of law enforcement and intelligence agencies in preventing and mitigating terrorist threats. Through case studies, simulations, and policy analysis, students will explore the complexities of balancing security measures with civil liberties and human rights. This course prepares students to critically assess terrorism-related issues, contribute to effective security policies, and respond to evolving threats in contemporary society.
CRIM 376. Drug Cartels and Trade. 3 Credits.
This course examines the operations, impact, and global implications of drug cartels and the illicit drug trade. Students will explore the historical development, organizational structures, and economic dimensions of drug trafficking networks across various regions. Topics include the social, political, and economic consequences of drug trafficking, as well as efforts in law enforcement, international cooperation, and policy responses. Through case studies and critical analysis, students will gain insights into the complexities of drug cartel dynamics, drug policy debates, and strategies for addressing drug-related challenges in contemporary society.
CRIM 385. Victim Rights and Advocacy in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
This course examines the rights, needs, and experiences of crime victims within the criminal justice system, emphasizing advocacy and support mechanisms. Students will explore the legal frameworks, services, and resources available to victims, including restitution, compensation, and victim impact statements. Topics include trauma-informed care, crisis intervention strategies, and the role of victim advocates in promoting justice and healing. Through case studies and practical exercises, students will develop skills in supporting victims, navigating ethical challenges, and advocating for policies that enhance victim rights and services. This course prepares students to contribute effectively to victim-centered approaches in criminal justice, promoting fairness, compassion, and accountability within legal proceedings and societal responses to crime.
CRIM 386. Critical Communications in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
This course explores the essential communication strategies and skills required for criminal justice professionals when interacting with individuals in emergency, crisis, and highly stressful situations. Students will examine effective communication techniques tailored to diverse populations, including individuals who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, elderly, experiencing dementia, on the autism spectrum, in mental health crisis, under the influence of drugs, and other unique circumstances. Topics include de-escalation techniques, cultural competence, trauma-informed communication, and legal considerations in communication practices. Through case studies, simulations, and role-playing exercises, students will develop proficiency in adapting communication approaches to ensure safety, establish trust, and facilitate effective resolution in challenging scenarios. This course prepares students to navigate complex interactions with empathy, sensitivity, and professionalism, fostering inclusive and responsive practices in the criminal justice field.
CRIM 388. Wrongful Convictions: Causes and Consequences. 3 Credits.
In this course, students will explore the causes and consequences of wrongful convictions within the criminal justice system. The course examines high-profile cases, the role of flawed investigations, eyewitness misidentifications, prosecutorial misconduct, and systemic biases that contribute to these tragic errors. Through case studies and interactive discussions, students will learn about the real-life impacts on individuals and the broader implications for justice reform. This course challenges students to critically evaluate how these miscarriages of justice occur and what can be done to prevent them.
CRIM 395. Special Topics in Criminal Justice: _____. 3 Credits.
An introductory study of selected topics in criminal justice. Course may be repeated for credit if content varies. Course may be offered in lecture or online format.
CRIM 396. Study Abroad in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
Immerse yourself in an enriching study abroad experience that delves into the diverse landscapes of international criminal justice systems. This course offers a unique opportunity to compare and contrast legal frameworks, law enforcement practices, and societal responses to crime across different countries. Through visits to key institutions, interactive seminars, and cultural engagements, students will gain insights into global perspectives on crime prevention, justice administration, and human rights. Open to students pursuing criminal justice or related fields, incoming freshmen interested in the field of criminal justice, as well as students from other colleges and universities, this course promotes critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding essential for today's globalized world. Course is repeatable, up to 2 times, so long as the destination is different.
CRIM 399. Independent Study in Criminal Justice. 1-6 Credits.
Study under the supervision of an instructor on a topic in Criminal Justice. The topic, expected outcome, evaluation criteria, and the number of credit hours must be mutually agreed upon by the student and the instructor. Prerequisite: Instructor permission required.
CRIM 400. Leadership for Justice Practitioners. 3 Credits.
The course covers leadership and management concepts in the context of law enforcement agencies. The course provides an introduction to leadership and management functions including fiscal management, human resources, and strategic planning as well as the organization of decision making and training functions. Students will learn research verified concepts of leadership and management within the context of the United States law enforcement environment. (Same as SPAA 400.)
CRIM 405. Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. 3 Credits.
This course examines corruption within all aspects of the criminal justice system. Using case studies of notorious incidents involving public servants’ malfeasance, students will analyze the causes and consequences of misconduct in policing, courts, and corrections. Students will compare the behaviors that ultimately undermine public trust. Topics include biased policing, evidence tampering, bribery, and perjury. By evaluating these real-world examples of corruption, students will understand the relationship between preventing a culture of corruption and promoting integrity.
CRIM 410. Racial Justice and the Criminal Justice System. 3 Credits.
This course explores the intersection of race and the criminal justice system in the United States. Students will explore how race as historically been understood and incorporated into the system and contemporary race related reforms. The course will examine how the criminal justice has influenced racialized communities in the United States as well as how race shapes the experiences of workers within the criminal justice system.
CRIM 420. Ethical Issues and Decision-Making in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
This course explores the ethical dilemmas and decision-making processes encountered within the criminal justice system. Students will examine ethical theories and principles as they apply to law enforcement, corrections, and legal professions. Topics include moral reasoning, professional integrity, discretion, and the ethical implications of policy and practice. Through case studies and interactive discussions, students will analyze complex ethical issues, develop critical thinking skills, and formulate ethical frameworks for navigating real-world challenges. This course prepares students to uphold ethical standards, make informed decisions, and contribute responsibly to the administration of justice in diverse criminal justice careers.
CRIM 423. Conspiracy Theories in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
This course explores high-profile cases that have been labeled conspiracy theories within the justice system. Using historical case studies, this course will examine these cases, their respective investigations, and the impact they left on the criminal justice world. The material will present a balance between evidence and skepticism, considering how conspiracy theories can present a challenge and undermine the justice system. Students will understand the influence of these theories on law, politics, and society.
CRIM 455. Criminal Procedure. 3 Credits.
This course provides an in-depth examination of the procedural aspects of the criminal justice system in the United States. Students will study the constitutional principles and legal frameworks governing criminal procedures, including search and seizure, arrest, interrogation, and the rights of the accused. Topics include the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Amendments, landmark Supreme Court decisions, and the role of law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges in the criminal process. Through case studies and practical exercises, students will analyze procedural issues and their implications for justice, civil liberties, and public policy.
CRIM 456. CSI Field Study. 3 Credits.
The CSI Field Study course offers a series of immersive weekend workshops held at the KU Edwards Campus throughout the semester. Students will engage in practical, hands-on learning experiences focused on crime scene investigation (CSI) techniques and methodologies. Guided by experienced instructors and forensic experts, participants will learn essential skills in evidence collection, analysis, documentation, and forensic technology application. Emphasis is placed on real-world scenarios, ensuring students develop proficiency in crime scene processing, critical thinking, and teamwork.
CRIM 458. Child Victim and Forensic Interviewing. 3 Credits.
This course explores the value, purpose, and need for utilizing forensic interviewers for effective child investigations. Particular attention will be paid to trauma responsive investigations and techniques, life span approaches, and the unique need of child victims in sexual exploitation investigations. Students will learn about the role of the forensic investigator, the impact of strong collaborations for holistic victim engagement, and the use of evidence-based strategies with children.
CRIM 460. Forensic Profiles: Violent Mind. 3 Credits.
From psychopaths to sexual offenders, this course explores the world of those who commit crimes of interpersonal violence. Learn how through standardized frameworks and processes, experts conduct forensic evaluations and provide expert witness testimony in State and Federal court. This course uses case presentations, class discussions, assigned readings, and videos to explore the realities of working with this challenging population.
CRIM 465. Crime, Place, and Prevention. 3 Credits.
This course examines the relationship between crime, geographical locations, and prevention strategies. Students will explore theories and methods used to understand how physical and social environments influence criminal behavior. The course covers spatial analysis techniques, environmental criminology, and crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED). By analyzing case studies and engaging in practical exercises, students will learn to develop and implement effective crime prevention strategies tailored to specific places. This course prepares students to apply place-based approaches to enhance public safety and reduce crime.
CRIM 466. Evidence-Based Policing Approaches. 3 Credits.
This course explores evidence-based strategies and methodologies in contemporary policing. Students will examine research-driven approaches to crime prevention, intervention, and community policing. Topics include data analysis, crime mapping, predictive policing, and evaluating the effectiveness of policing tactics. Through case studies and practical applications, students will learn to apply empirical research findings to enhance law enforcement practices and improve public safety outcomes. This course emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, equipping students with the skills to critically assess and implement evidence-based strategies in diverse policing contexts.
CRIM 475. Human Trafficking Investigations. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive examination of human trafficking investigations within the framework of criminal justice. Students will explore the dynamics, prevalence, and forms of human trafficking, including sex trafficking and labor exploitation. Topics include investigative techniques, victim identification, legal frameworks, and international perspectives on combating trafficking networks. Through case studies, guest lectures from experts, and practical exercises, students will gain proficiency in conducting human trafficking investigations, collaborating with law enforcement agencies, and supporting victims through trauma-informed approaches. This course prepares students to address the complexities of human trafficking with sensitivity, ethics, and professionalism, contributing to efforts in law enforcement, victim advocacy, and policy development aimed at combatting this global crime.
CRIM 476. Piracy on the High Seas. 3 Credits.
This course explores the history, evolution, and contemporary manifestations of piracy on international waters. Students will examine the socio-economic, legal, and geopolitical factors contributing to piracy incidents, including piracy's impact on global trade, maritime security, and international relations. Topics include piracy tactics, legal frameworks under international law, responses by naval forces and international organizations, and efforts in piracy prevention and prosecution. Through case studies and critical analysis, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of piracy's complexities and the strategies employed to address this maritime crime. This course prepares students for careers in maritime law, international relations, security management, and law enforcement by fostering a deep understanding of piracy's global implications and the multifaceted approaches to combatting it.
CRIM 485. Juvenile Behavior, Delinquency, Justice, Rehabilitation. 3 Credits.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of juvenile behavior, delinquency, and the juvenile justice system with a focus on rehabilitation. Students will examine the factors contributing to juvenile delinquency, including social, familial, and psychological influences. Topics include legal frameworks, diversion programs, rehabilitative interventions, and juvenile justice policies aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting positive youth development. Through case studies, policy analysis, and practical exercises, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of juvenile justice practices, emphasizing evidence-based approaches to rehabilitation and community reintegration. This course prepares students to engage critically with issues of youth crime, advocate for effective interventions, and contribute to fostering healthier outcomes for young offenders within the criminal justice system.
CRIM 486. Child and Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Advocacy. 3 Credits.
This course examines the issues of child and elder abuse, neglect, and advocacy within the framework of the criminal justice system. Students will explore the dynamics, causes, and consequences of abuse and neglect among vulnerable populations, focusing on legal and ethical considerations. Topics include intervention strategies, victim advocacy, investigative techniques, and multidisciplinary approaches to addressing abuse cases. Through case studies, guest lectures, and practical exercises, students will develop an understanding of the challenges faced by victims and the roles of law enforcement, social services, and community organizations in providing support and seeking justice. This course prepares students to advocate for vulnerable individuals, contribute to effective intervention strategies, and promote awareness and prevention efforts in their professional careers within the criminal justice field.
CRIM 487. Drugs, Mental Health, and Homelessness in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
This course examines the complex relationship between drug addiction, mental health issues, and homelessness within the criminal justice system. Students will explore how these factors intersect and contribute to criminal behavior, as well as the challenges faced by individuals and communities. The course covers effective intervention strategies, policy implications, and rehabilitative approaches aimed at addressing these interconnected issues. Through case studies, guest lectures, and practical applications, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the systemic factors and solutions needed to create a more equitable and effective criminal justice system.
CRIM 498. Internship in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.
Designed to provide criminal justice students an applied learning experience with a relevant law enforcement agency, policy related organization, or non-profit. Students will critically reflect on their experience through academic assignments throughout their internship experience. Prerequisite: CRIM 300.
Students will engage in an applied, original project that integrates learning across the criminal justice curriculum. Project topics rotate based faculty professional background and current policy and practice foci. Students will analyze data related to an applied policy question and present their final work to a variety of practitioner audiences. Prerequisite: Must have completed 18 credits in major, including 9 credits from core classes.
Courses
EMGT 750. Engineering Management Leadership. 3 Credits.
This is the required first course for those pursuing the Master of Science degree in Engineering Management. This course introduces the student to the broad spectrum of essential concepts, philosophies, and techniques that encompass the field of engineering management. The student will also develop a plan of study for the remainder of their degree program and identify their EMGT 895 Capstone Project. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 800. Special Topics in Engineering Management. 1-4 Credits.
Advanced study of a specialized nature representing unique or changing engineering management knowledge.
EMGT 801. Management Theory and Practice for Engineering Managers. 3 Credits.
Foundation for managing in technology-based organizations. Topics include essential management functions, schools of management thought, motivation, and management style.
EMGT 802. Statistical Analysis and Prediction of Engineering Systems. 3 Credits.
Production of required statistical analyses and predictions for engineering and management systems. Content from probability through regression and analysis of variance. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 803. Technological Forecasting and Assessment. 3 Credits.
Methods of technology assessment and forecasting. Topics include scenario analysis, cross-impact analysis, judgmental mental forecasting methods such as Delphi, and foundational time series forecasting methods such as trend projection and auto-aggressive moving averages. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 804. Business Development and Marketing of Professional Services. 3 Credits.
A broad review of the major components of marketing and integration of these components, culminating in students developing marketing plans for services. Theories, principles, and practices of business development and marketing applied to consulting oriented professional engineering and architectural firms.
EMGT 805. Management of Innovation. 3 Credits.
Preparation for managing technological change involving innovation. Topics include essential management functions, innovation types, impact of organizational structure and climate, and change management.
EMGT 806. Financial Intelligence for Engineering Managers. 3 Credits.
This course introduces the broad array of financial aspects necessary for a technical manager to be effective. The general topic areas include finance, accounting, economics, and engineering economic analysis as they apply to the day-to-day functions of an engineering manager with a primary focus on how to work with financial professionals. Examples of specific topic areas include applications of the Balanced Scorecard, preparation of budgets and estimating, developing a business model and business plan, and associated marketing plans. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 807. Labor and Employee Relations for the Engineering Manager. 3 Credits.
Foundation for negotiation and administration of labor agreements. Topics include labor relations; human resources management; employment practices in unionized and non-union organizations; and historical, legal, and structural environments influencing collective bargaining processes.
EMGT 808. Quality Management. 3 Credits.
Practical application of total quality management (TQM) concepts from planning through customer acceptance in technology-based organizations, focusing on understanding the concepts of the total supply chain, managerial aspects of quality, and improvement methodologies throughout.
EMGT 809. Personal Development for the Engineering Manager. 4 Credits.
Objectives, theories, and tests of engineering and management ethics and the relationship to personal values, and communications strategies. Development of career and life plans, and personal brand. Strong emphasis on the creation of both written papers and oral presentations.
EMGT 810. Quantitative Decision Making. 3 Credits.
Practitioner-oriented presentation of managing and implementing optimization methods for improving design and decision making. Focus on methods of mathematical programming (linear, integer, and non-lineary), queuing analysis, and decision analysis. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 811. Engineering Systems Simulation. 3 Credits.
Practitioner-oriented presentation of developing and using discrete-event simulation to improve engineering analysis and design, and management decision making processes, including instruction in a chosen simulation language. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 812. Law and the Design Professional. 3 Credits.
Legal doctrines relating to owners, design professionals, and contractors; contracts, including formation, rights and duties, interpretation, performance problems, disputes, and claims, standards of care and the management of construction claims, duties and obligation of the design professional, the owner, and the contractor; surety bonds and insurance; and sources of law, forms of association, and agency. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 813. Design Project Management in Professional Practice. 3 Credits.
Managing design projects, integrating perspectives of profitability and cost control, client satisfaction, and project team relations. Topics include explanation of a project manager's job via an augmented model of the Blake-Mouton grid. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 814. Technical Leadership. 3 Credits.
Developing and refining leadership skills is one of the most important capabilities to realize consistent success. By its nature, technical leadership is performed in an environment of innovation and change, and this requires the ability to lead under constantly shifting situations. In this course, the student will learn to formulate and communicate a compelling vision, convince others to pursue that vision, marshal resources and talents, improve decision making and communication, earn trust and build momentum, and inspire and enable others to excel. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 815. Business Relationships and Selling Skills. 3 Credits.
Fundamentals of business relationships and professional selling for any technical professional who would like to be more effective in "getting their message across" to external or internal customers. Relationship management, including ethical issues in business relationships. Experimental exercises on conducting and evaluating dialogues/presentations with customers, internal audiences, and upper management.
EMGT 819. Essential Tools for Consulting Engineers. 3 Credits.
Technical professionals working in the engineering consulting industry require a wide breadth of technical, management, and leadership skills. This course addresses the variety of capabilities necessary to be successful, such as business development (e.g., marketing, selling, proposal preparation, contracting, negotiating); business and engineering law; client relations and working with stakeholders and regulators; multitasking; project and program management; personnel management (e.g., hiring, employee assessment, mentoring); and engineering management. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 820. Developing the Engineering Manager. 3 Credits.
Integrating essential concepts and effective practices in communication, management, and leadership with the application of key organizational resources for enhanced management performance. Emphases on working with and through others, on useful human resources-oriented knowledge and skills, and on working with human resources professionals.
EMGT 821. Strategic Management of Technical Projects. 3 Credits.
Strategic assessment of developmental projects, focusing on the proposed product or service, the organization, project details, and the environment. Topics include application of financial figures of merit, feasibility of competing projects, decisions under uncertainty, risk vs return, and forecasting. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 823. Management of Internal Engineering Projects. 3 Credits.
Managing organizations' technology-oriented projects, both as inside staff and outside consultant. Covers the entire project life cycle as reflected in the Project Management Book of Knowledge. Practical considerations addressed include material procurement, work with contractors and consultants, selecting software, and managing the project team.
EMGT 824. Product Marketing for Engineering Managers. 3 Credits.
A broad review of the major components of marketing and integration of these components, culminating in students developing marketing plans for new or existing products. Theories, principles, and practices of marketing applied to engineering managers in production or manufacturing. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT program or instructor consent.
EMGT 826. Management of New Product Development Projects. 3 Credits.
This course discusses how to properly manage new product development processes using project management tools and techniques. New products are not projects until they are analyzed, planned, scheduled, budgeted, managed, and controlled by managers. It is not typically technical process issues that result in failed new product introductions, but rather a failure in their management and marketing. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804.
EMGT 830. Case Studies in Engineering Management. 2-3 Credits.
A capstone course for the program, integrating the material presented in other courses through analysis of several engineering management case studies. Note: Research paper and presentation are part of the 3 credit hours option. Prerequisite: Must have completed of 21 credit hours in the Engineering Management program and have completed EMGT 810, EMGT 820, and EMGT 821.
EMGT 835. Field Project (M.S.). 1-3 Credits.
Research on a problem in engineering management, the satisfactory completion of which satisfies the project requirement for the degree of Master of Science in Engineering Management. Prerequisite: Must have completed of 21 credit hours in the Engineering Management program, including EMGT 810 and EMGT 821.
EMGT 840. Systems Modeling. 3 Credits.
Formal methods and processes in bringing complex systems into being, and improving existing systems. Topics include formal specification methods, definition of customer needs, systems life cycles, value-to-value analysis, and management of the systems engineering process. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 842. Program and Systems Engineering Management. 3 Credits.
For engineers, technical project/program management and systems engineering management are closely related and intertwined. For example, systems engineering is typically carried out in the context of a project with outcomes centered on defining, designing, developing, and deploying complex technical systems. This course introduces the principles and practices of technical project/program management (e.g., scope, schedule, budget, risk) and systems engineering management (e.g., systems planning, organization, control, and evaluation) to enable the engineering manager to effectively lead technical projects and programs. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 846. Systems Engineering Principles. 3 Credits.
Systems engineering provides the philosophic underpinnings and functional framework for engineering management. This course is an introduction and overview of the principles underlying the systems engineering approach that engineering managers use to define, design, develop, and deploy complex systems. Prerequisite: Admission to the Engineering Management program or instructor consent.
EMGT 847. Systems Engineering Applications. 3 Credits.
This course follows EMGT 846 Systems Engineering Principles to provide additional tools, techniques, and applications related to the systems engineering approach to define, design, develop, and deploy complex systems, such as how to prepare and implement a Systems Engineering Management Plan. Prerequisite: EMGT 846 or consent of the instructor.
EMGT 850. Environmental Issues for Engineering Managers. 3 Credits.
Survey of environmental problems and their solution, and environmental regulations. Topics include the quantity and quality of various types of pollutants emitted to various media, and the risks posed by these pollutants; the regulatory process; and historical perspective, including pollution generation (sources), transportation, fate and effects.
EMGT 852. Personal/Interpersonal Skills. 3 Credits.
This course provides a framework supporting how effective technical management and leadership requires self-development and interpersonal skills. Topics include fostering an awareness of behaviors, perceptions, and cognitive biases; improving effective listening and expression; and the enhancing the ability to give and receive honest feedback.
EMGT 860. Special Problems in Engineering Management. 1-4 Credits.
Original independent research on engineering management problems or subjects of immediate interest. May be repeated for credit to a maximum of four hours. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.
EMGT 862. Manufacturing Systems Integration. 3 Credits.
Engineering and management-specific aspects of manufacturing and information systems integration. Engineering topics include agile, flexible, intelligent, and advanced manufacturing sub-systems; material handling and identification; vendor-specific automation; communication linkage between sub-systems; network and protocol alternatives; and hardware platform alternatives. Management topics include implementation approaches, quality management systems, long-range planning, support systems, and integration project management.
EMGT 867. Advanced Operations Management. 3 Credits.
Strategic issues and practical application of modern and advanced methods for designing and analyzing manufacturing processes and systems. Topics include: forecasting, product and service design, capacity planning, quality management , inventory management, scheduling, supply chain management, project management and simulation of manufacturing processes, and just-in-time, lean , synchronous, and agile systems.
EMGT 870. Managing Tech Organizations I. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies, behaviors, and leadership practices required to manage technology-driven organizations. Students examine key topics including change management, organizational culture, talent development, performance systems, innovation, governance, and ethical leadership. Through case analysis and applied frameworks, the course explores how people, process, and technology must align to create resilient, high-performing technology organizations.
EMGT 871. Managing Tech Organizations II. 3 Credits.
This course provides an opportunity for students to more deeply explore selected topics introduced in EMGT 870 Managing the Technology Organization. The course focuses on the application of leadership, organization behavior, performance management, and innovation tools relevant to technology-focused teams and enterprises. Through case studies, problem analysis, and practical frameworks, students strengthen their ability to diagnose organizational challenges and design effective interventions that improve people, process, and technology alignment. Prerequisite: EMGT 870 (or concurrent enrollment).
EMGT 875. Consulting Engineering Management I. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the business, technical, and managerial functions essential to operating and leading a consulting engineering firm. The course introduces key topics including strategic planning, client relations, financial and contract management, talent development, risk control, and professional ethics and prepares students to understand the full lifecycle of consulting services - from market positioning to project delivery and long-term client value.
EMGT 876. Consulting Engineering Management II. 3 Credits.
This course provides an opportunity for students to more deeply explore selected topics introduced in EMGT 875 Consulting Engineering Management I. The course emphasizes the application of consulting tools, strategic thinking, and business decision-making within professional engineering service environments. Prerequisite: EMGT 875 (or concurrent enrollment).
EMGT 880. Product Development & Manufacturing I. 3 Credits.
This course provides an integrated overview of product development, manufacturing, and quality management principles. Students examine how design, process efficiency, and quality align to support organizational strategy and competitive advantage. Through the application of Lean Six Sigma, Total Quality Management, and other tools, learners analyze real-world scenarios and develop frameworks that connect product lifecycle management with continuous improvement and business value creation.
EMGT 881. Product Development & Manufacturing II. 3 Credits.
This course provides an opportunity for students to more deeply explore selected topics introduced in EMGT 880 Product Development, Manufacturing, and Quality Management. The course emphasizes the application of tools, such as Quality Function Deployment, to improve product development and marketing, enhance manufacturability, and ensure quality. Prerequisite: EMGT 880 (or concurrent enrollment).
EMGT 885. Supply Chain & Inventory I. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of global supply chain logistics and inventory management principles. Students explore the flow of materials, information, and funds across the supply network and analyze the interdependence of logistics, procurement, and distribution decisions. Emphasis is placed on forecasting, coursing, warehousing, and performance measurement to improve efficiency and responsiveness.
EMGT 886. Supply Chain & Inventory II. 3 Credits.
This course provides an opportunity for students to more deeply explore selected topics introduced in EMGT 885. The course introduces and applies tools and techniques to enhance supply chain logistics and improve inventory management, such as forecasting demand, warehousing, turnover, packaging, and material handling. Prerequisite: EMGT 885 (or concurrent enrollment).
EMGT 892. Directed Research. 3 Credits.
This course allows graduate students to investigate a significant issue of interest in engineering management through faculty-supported research. Students define a focused problem, design, appropriate methodology, analyze data, and develop evidenced-based conclusions. Emphasis is placed on research rigor, ethical practice, and clear communication of findings through professional reports and presentations. Prerequisite: Admission to the EMGT Program or instructor consent.
EMGT 895. Capstone Project. 3 Credits.
The Capstone Project brings together the concepts and techniques learned in the Engineering Management program coursework and applies them to a real-world problem. The selection of the Capstone Project will be made by the student in conjunction with Engineering Management faculty. Prerequisite: Completion of at least 27 credit hours of EMGT courses.
Courses
HMGT 300. Introduction to Healthcare Management. 3 Credits.
Participants will learn key principles, practices, and personalities of health care management. The content is broadly applicable to healthcare enterprises of every kind: public health organizations, physician practices and clinics, hospitals and health systems, agencies and service organizations, for-profit firms, not-for-profit enterprises, etc. The course will provide an overview of how health care institutions are organized and governed, the role of the employees in these organizations, and the systems designed for their efficient and effective operation.
HMGT 305. Health Policy and Healthcare Systems. 3 Credits.
This introductory course is designed to familiarize students with basic concepts and ideas concerning the distribution of health and illness in society, the organization of the health care system, and the relationship of one to the other. The course will address health disparities, the U.S. health care system and health policy and comparisons to other countries, and the roles of government in health systems and policy.
HMGT 310. Health Communication. 3 Credits.
This course introduces diverse approaches to health communication. Students will learn health communication in a variety of health contexts, ranging from interpersonal communication to public health campaigns. We examine theoretical and conceptual backgrounds in health communication and evaluate examples of health communication practices. Issues include provider-patient interaction, the role of the patient, health organizations, the media and health, and end-of-life concerns.
HMGT 320. Applied Healthcare Law and Ethics. 3 Credits.
This course address fundamental and applied concepts in health sciences and healthcare. Current and past issues in health law and ethics will be addressed, including historical origins and development of health law, cultural concerns, conflict of interest, health information confidentiality issues, human subjects research, and the application of law and ethics in health systems and workplaces.
HMGT 410. Crisis Management in Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
This course gives students an in-depth understanding of crisis management within the health sciences, combining foundational communication theory, leadership assessment, and practical strategies for managing crises. Students will explore a range of crisis scenarios, including public health emergencies, patient safety incidents, and organizational challenges. Through case studies, simulations, and reflective exercises, students will develop the skills to lead and communicate effectively during high-stakes situations.
HMGT 440. Applied Ethics in Clinical Trials and Healthcare. 3 Credits.
This course addresses current and past issues in health ethics for the healthcare manager and clinical trials coordinator, including historical origins and development of health ethics and relevant laws, informed consent and human subjects research, cultural perspectives, conflict of interest issues, health information confidentiality, institutional review boards, individual and organizational ethics, and ethical and legal issues in clinical research/clinical trials. The course will include discussion of case studies from the public, private, and nonprofits sectors of the industry.
HMGT 450. Economics and Finance of Healthcare. 3 Credits.
This course covers economic and financial concepts relevant to health care management and demonstrates how they are applied to actual situations in the health care industry in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. It examines general issues of healthcare consumption, supply and demand, and healthcare resource allocation as well as specific concepts of financial management and decision making, budgeting, and revenue management and their application to the health care system. In addition, the course will cover healthcare payment systems and reimbursement methods of various payers in the health services industries.
HMGT 460. Healthcare Law and Regulation. 3 Credits.
The course provides an overview of the primary healthcare laws and regulations for the healthcare manager who needs an understanding of healthcare-related legal issues. It covers the legal framework that governs modern health systems and surveys the laws, statutes, and regulations that govern and direct the provision of healthcare services, including fundamentals of American health law and regulation, privacy law, delivery and quality of medical services, and transactions and liability within the healthcare industry.
HMGT 499. Topics in Health Management: _____. 1-3 Credits.
Courses on special topics in Health Management. These courses may be lecture, discussions, or readings. Students may select sections according to their special needs. Repeatable for credit if topic varies.
HMGT 500. Introduction to Clinical Trials Management. 3 Credits.
This course will provide foundational knowledge for clinical trials coordination and management, including an overview of the clinical and pre-clinical processes involved in setting up clinical trials and the roles and responsibilities of those conducting and administering trial; the processes involved in conducting safe, thorough, and reliable trials; and the steps necessary for completion and evaluation of clinical trials processes. Topics to be addressed the development process for biologic, pharmaceutical, and medical devices products and related regulations, the rationale for design features of Phase I, II, and III trials, participant recruitment, retention, safety, and adherence, techniques for randomization, data collection and endpoints, interim monitoring, validity of a clinical trial, and results reporting. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the mechanics and key regulatory requirements of conducting a clinical trial.
HMGT 700. Introduction to Clinical Trials and Good Clinical Practice. 3 Credits.
This foundational course covers the history and evolution of clinical research, ethical principles including informed consent and the Declaration of Helsinki, and the international guidelines of Good Clinical Practice (GCP). It also introduces the different phases of clinical trials (Phase 1-4) and the roles of key stakeholders.
HMGT 701. Clinical Trial Design and Protocols. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to the principles of clinical trial design, including various study methodologies (e.g., randomized controlled trials, observational studies). It covers hypothesis generation, sample size calculation, randomization, blinding, and key statistical concepts relevant to clinical research, selecting appropriate study populations and endpoints, sample size calculation, and the process of writing a comprehensive clinical trial protocol.
HMGT 702. Clinical Trial Operations and Management. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on the practical aspects of managing a clinical trial from initiation to close-out. It covers essential operational components such as site selection and initiation, subject recruitment and retention strategies, investigational product management, budgeting and financial oversight, and vendor management. Emphasis will be placed on project management principles and effective team communication within a clinical trial setting.
HMGT 703. Regulatory Affairs and Compliance in Clinical Research. 3 Credits.
This course provides an overview of the regulatory landscape governing clinical trials. It covers key regulations and guidelines from relevant authorities (e.g., FDA in the US, EMA in Europe), the process of regulatory submissions and approvals (e.g., IND, NDA), pharmacovigilance and safety reporting, and ensuring compliance throughout the trial lifecycle.
HMGT 704. Clinical Data Management and Quality Assurance. 3 Credits.
This course will delve into the critical area of clinical data management, including data collection, database design, data entry, query management, and data quality control. It will also cover the principles of quality assurance and quality control in clinical trials, including monitoring, auditing, and inspection readiness. Students will learn about the role of technology and informatics in efficient and compliant data handling.
Courses
HSCI 178. Navigating Nutrition. 1 Credits.
This course introduces students to the practical and scientific foundations of healthy eating. Emphasizing real-world applications, the course develops essential skills such as interpreting nutrition labels, creating balanced food budgets, making informed grocery and dining choices, and evaluating nutrition information in the media. Students will learn to distinguish credible nutrition science from misinformation by analyzing research articles and assessing expert claims. The course also provides an overview of the nutrition curriculum at KU and explores related academic and career pathways in health and wellness.
HSCI 179. Food for Thought. 3 Credits.
This course explores ways food connects people, cultures, and communities around the world. Through collaboration with local community partners and exploratory research, students will examine global dietary practices, cultural food traditions, and the social forces that shape eating behaviors. By the end of the course, students will develop strategies to diversify their own diets, foster cultural awareness, and reflect on how food shapes human identity and health.
HSCI 301. Applied Medical Terminology. 3 Credits.
This course is intended for current healthcare professionals who have some medical terminology knowledge and is designed to update knowledge, refine skills, and prepare for certification exams or new positions. May not be taken by students who have previously completed HEIM 230, HSES 371, CLSX 332, or a transfer equivalent 3-credit-hour medical terminology course. Successful completion of course will meet the medical terminology course requirement for the Bachelor of Health Sciences degree.
HSCI 315. Exploring Careers in Health Science. 1 Credits.
Through self-assessment, aligning individual strengths with career pathways, and connecting with industry professionals, students will explore a wide variety of health and science-related careers. This course will outline how to gain formative experiences and utilize networking opportunities to help gain opportunities in the future.
HSCI 316. Exploring Careers in Nutrition. 1 Credits.
Students will explore various career paths in the field of nutrition, including clinical dietetics, public health, food industries, sports nutrition, and other health professions. Through guest speakers, case studies, and hands-on activities, students will gain insight into the skills, certifications, and opportunities available within different nutrition professions, helping them chart their own career paths.
HSCI 320. Principles of Nutrition. 3 Credits.
Applied study of the relationship of normal food and nutrition principles to health promotion in select stages of the lifecycle. Not open to those with credit in HSES 330.
HSCI 330. Microbiology for Health Sciences. 3 Credits.
This course takes an approach to interpreting life on the planet from a very different point of view than we experience, a microscopic one. The course focuses on the structure and function of prokaryotic cells and viruses with a heavy emphasis on bacteria. Topics include identification and organization of microbes, bacterial growth and sanitation, basic immunology, infectious disease, and epidemiology. Prerequisite: One biology course; one chemistry course.
HSCI 340. Introduction to Public Health. 3 Credits.
This course is an introductory course that examines public health issues in the United States and is designed to provide an overview of major health issues that impact the public's health. The course emphasizes the essential services of public health, challenges and strategies for working with communities, and provides an overview of the United States public health system.
HSCI 415. Career Readiness in Health Sciences. 1 Credits.
Through creating a career development plan, students will identify specific, achievable career goals and then design and implement strategies to reach them. This course will help students identify and articulate marketable skills through written and verbal communication and demonstrate how to convey transferable skills to employers through resumes, cover letters, and interviews in preparation for the capstone experience/internship in Health Science.
HSCI 420. Nutrition Through the Life Cycle. 3 Credits.
HSCI 421. Public Health Nutrition. 3 Credits.
The public health and nutrition concerns and services to maintain and improve the health of people living in the US.
HSCI 422. Nutrition Assessment. 3 Credits.
HSCI 423. Food and Culture. 3 Credits.
This course will explore the role that culture and identity play in food choices and habits. Students will analyze the role their own culture plays on their diet and gain a better understanding of food cultures throughout the world.
HSCI 424. Current Trends in Nutrition. 3 Credits.
A survey of current trends and advances in nutrition, including fad diets, personalized nutrition, emerging supplements, sustainable eating, and the role of technology. Students will explore these topics through lectures, discussions, and assignments, developing critical thinking skills to assess modern and future nutrition science.
HSCI 425. Nutrition Education. 3 Credits.
HSCI 426. Dietary Supplements. 3 Credits.
An in-depth exploration of dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, and ergogenic aids, with special attention to identifying safe sources and evidence-based biomarkers. Students will evaluate the efficacy, safety, and regulation of supplements, using current research to understand their role in health and performance. Prerequisite: HSCI 320.
HSCI 427. Plant Based Diets. 3 Credits.
An exploration of the fundamentals of plant-based diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian approaches. Students will learn about key nutrients, health benefits, and meal planning while considering environmental and ethical factors. The course also explores current trends and practical skills for integrating plant-based eating into daily life and nutrition counseling. Prerequisite: HSCI 320.
HSCI 428. Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Health. 3 Credits.
This course will focus on the gastrointestinal (GI) system’s anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry in the context of nutrition. It will also discuss dietary consumption for sustaining a healthy GI and common and uncommon GI diseases that may alter nutritional needs.
HSCI 440. Introduction to Epidemiology. 3 Credits.
This course will present the fundamentals of epidemiology including study designs, measures of morbidity and risk, types of research biases and specific epidemiology disciplines. These concepts will be illustrated with various examples of epidemiologic research and through lab exercises.
HSCI 441. Population Health. 3 Credits.
This is an introductory course that provides a population perspective on social determinants of health as well as the distribution of risk factors and disease across populations. It explores population-based approaches to explore how behavioral, social, and environmental factors influence health and methods to reduce these health disparities.
HSCI 445. Introduction to Environmental Health. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to provide a foundation for understanding how the natural and built environment affect human health in industrialized and developing countries by examining the impact of physical, chemical, and biological factors external to humans. Students will gain an understanding of the interaction of individuals and communities with the environment, the potential impact on health of environmental agents, and specific applications of concepts of environmental health. (Same as EVRN 445.)
HSCI 448. Global Public Health. 3 Credits.
This course provides an applied, population-level perspective on health challenges in an interconnected world. It focuses on the principles and practice of global public health intervention, including the measurement of health status, burden of disease analysis, and the implementation and evaluation of programs in low- and middle-income countries. The course examines key transnational health issues (e.g., emerging infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, maternal/child health) and the complex interplay of environmental, organizational, and financial determinants of health. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to analyzing the structures of international health organizations, exploring the process of policymaking, priority-setting, and financing (e.g., foreign aid, domestic budgets) that shape the delivery of care and the reduction of health disparities at the community and national levels. Prerequisite: HSCI 340 or permission of the instructor.
HSCI 450. Epidemics, Pandemics, and Pestilence. 3 Credits.
This course examines origins, responses, and consequences of major epidemics and pandemics that have affected humanity over time. Spanning from antiquity to present day, this global survey investigates environmental and biological origins of disease, the role of commerce, urbanization, and transportation in the spread of disease, and responses to controlling disease and pandemics. Key diseases and epidemics covered include plague, smallpox, malaria, cholera, influenza, typhus, typhoid, leprosy, and tuberculosis. (Same as EVRN 450.)
HSCI 490. Independent Study. 1-6 Credits.
Directed readings or research project on a topic under the supervision of the instructor. Topic or project to be agreed upon in advance with supervising faculty member. Final report required. Prerequisite: Instructor consent.
HSCI 495. MCAT Preparation Course. 4 Credits.
The MCAT Preparation course is a 4-credit hour elective designed to help students prepare for the Medical College Admission Test. In collaboration with testing services, this course assists students in creating a customized study plan through a robust curriculum, strategies for testing, and in-depth content reviews. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.
HSCI 498. Pathways in Health Science Careers. 1 Credits.
This course provides an integrated approach through individual pre-health coaching and peer group reflection. Students will explore exercises that identify their individual strengths and align them with career goals. Through creating actionable plans, students will focus on broadening professional experiences and improving underdeveloped aspects of their application for professional programs in the health sciences. By the end of the course, students will have detailed an inventory of their professional experiences and a resume that clearly reflects them. Students will practice articulating their strengths through written materials and designing an entrance exam study plan. Through informational interviews, students will gain a clearer understanding of interprofessional teams and opportunities for alternative pathways in health careers.
HSCI 499. Topics in Health Sciences: _____. 1-3 Credits.
Courses on special topics in Health Sciences. These courses may be lecture, discussions, or readings. Students may select sections according to their special needs. Repeatable for credit if topic varies.
HSCI 520. Nutrition Informatics. 3 Credits.
This course introduces the informatics principles and their application in nutrition and dietetics. Students will learn to use data, information systems, and technology to improve nutrition care and health outcomes and inform public health initiatives. Topics covered include defining electronic health records (EHR), managing nutrition data, understanding health information technology, and practical data analytics in nutrition practice.
HSCI 521. Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism. 3 Credits.
HSCI 522. Advanced Sports Nutrition. 3 Credits.
HSCI 523. Nutrition in Disease Treatment and Prevention. 3 Credits.
This course explores the role of nutrition in both preventing and managing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Students will learn how specific nutrients and dietary patterns can influence disease progression and treatment, as well as the limits of nutrition’s potential to influence outcomes. The class emphasizes evidence-based strategies for using nutrition as a tool in public health and clinical practice.
HSCI 524. Understanding Disordered Eating. 3 Credits.
An overview of causative influences on disordered eating habits and the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders. Students will examine dietary, psychological, social, and biological factors, as well as prevention strategies and the role of nutrition therapy within a multi-disciplinary recovery network.
HSCI 525. Nutrition Research Methods. 3 Credits.
This course advances students' understanding of nutritional concepts through designing, conducting, and interpreting nutrition-related research. Students will also learn to disseminate research findings and apply evidence-based practices in the field of nutrition. Prerequisite: HSCI 320 AND (Junior status or permission of instructor).
HSCI 545. Advanced Environmental Health. 3 Credits.
This course will build upon principles acquired in the introductory course by presenting advanced concepts on environmental health as novel factors that may constitute a risk to humans. The course provides an advanced understanding of concepts and issues of environmental health, including environmental toxicology and risk assessment, and an in-depth study of urban and rural environmental health issues and agents of environmental health impairment. Students will develop a research project or investigation of an environmental health topic. (Same as EVRN 545.) Prerequisite: HSCI 445 or EVRN 445 or consent of instructor.
HSCI 598. Nutrition Capstone. 3 Credits.
The capstone provides students with a broad-based, interdisciplinary educational experience and allows them to integrate and synthesize the knowledge they have gained in their nutrition curriculum. Students gather and analyze data throughout the class, and present their final work to a variety of audiences.
The capstone provides students with a broad-based, interdisciplinary educational experience and allows them to integrate and synthesize the knowledge they have gained in their health sciences curriculum. Students gather and analyze data throughout the class, and present their final work to a variety of audiences. Prerequisite: Students must be in their final year of coursework required for the Bachelor of Health Science. Restricted to declared Health Sciences majors only.
Courses
HU-C 800. Explaining the Human and Organizational Performance Effectiveness Framework. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to explain the three essential elements of the Framework for Human and Organizational Performance Effectiveness (HOPE) which are: the human performance equation, the basic progression of performance, and the process of reverse engineering performance.
HU-C 801. Analyzing Performance Using the HOPE Approach. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to analyze performance using the HOPE approach in a variety of settings and situations (military, corporate, government, education) for new and diagnostic performances. Learners will be able to implement a diagnostic front-end analysis.
HU-C 802. Design, Selecting, Developing, and Implementing Performance Interventions. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to design, select intervention sets, develop, and implement performance improvement interventions using the HOPE approach.
HU-C 803. Evaluating Performance Using the HOPE Approach. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to evaluate performance improvement initiatives using the HOPE approach, including analysis and communicating findings.
HU-C 804. Designing Workplace Training. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to design workplace training opportunities that support development of skills and knowledge.
HU-C 805. Designing Cognitive Support. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to design tools and guides that support users in accomplishing a desired performance.
HU-C 806. Interpersonal and Organizational Communication Strategies. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to apply interpersonal and organizational communication strategies to build and strengthen relationships across structural, technological, and relational barriers in the modern workplace.
HU-C 807. Persuasive Communication. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to include and influence various stakeholder groups when advocating for organizational progress and change by using research-based persuasive communication strategies. Learners can draft targeted messages, influence stakeholder decision-making and apply ethical persuasion principles while communicating persuasively.
HU-C 808. Organizational Networks in Communication. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to identify inclusive and diverse internal and external networks to help expand organizational influence and meet organizational goals. Learners are able to analyze organizational networks, build diverse networks, and leverage network dynamics to create strategic partnerships for innovative solutions.
HU-C 809. Employee Selection and Development. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to explain the core elements of matching candidates to position descriptions and evaluate candidate skills given organizational context, constraints and available strategies.
HU-C 810. Effective Employee Onboarding. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to design an organizational onboarding process which matches the position, organizational culture, and creates an environment for organizational success.
HU-C 811. Motivation and Performance Improvement. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to create and assess the effectiveness of an employee motivation plan by identifying performance gaps, development opportunities, and track progress.
HU-C 812. Systemic Organizational Culture Analysis. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to define and identify elements of organizational culture using a holistic systems approach.
HU-C 813. Organizational Culture and Team Effectiveness. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to identify key dysfunctional beliefs and behaviors in an organization’s culture and evaluate the impact of leadership actions on organizational culture.
HU-C 814. Practical Applications of Motivation Theories. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to use motivation theories to identify management practices that motivate and demotivate employees.
HU-C 815. Understanding Change and the Organization. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to define a change, identify organizational processes that need to be adjusted, and communicate the value of the change to the organization.
HU-C 816. Planning the Change Process. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to choose a change approach that matches the change, the organization’s culture and decision-making process.
HU-C 817. Stakeholders and Communication in Change. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to design communication strategies that address stakeholder interests and areas of resistance to change.
HU-C 818. Preparing to Launch a Strategic Planning Process. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to propose a strategic planning process that will fit the organization’s readiness and needs using information gathered in a pre-planning process.
HU-C 819. Producing a Strategic Plan. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to produce a strategic plan by engaging the organization in drafting objectives, strategies and tactics that address the vision for the future, with defined metrics.
HU-C 820. Strategic Planning Implementation and Monitoring. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to propose a follow-up plan that regularly tracks progress, re-assess strategies, and establishes a reporting cycle.
HU-C 821. Developing Organizational Performance Measures. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to design specific, relevant ways to assess how well programs, departments, or organizations are meeting their goals aligned with strategic priorities.
HU-C 822. Data Collection and Analysis. 1 Credits.
Learners can ethically collect and analyze data to inform organizational decision-making.
HU-C 823. Using Performance Data to Inform Alignment of Goals and Resources. 1 Credits.
Learners can use program performance data to make decisions about organizational systems, structures, and strategic priorities that optimize alignment between goals, resources, and outcomes.
HU-C 824. Organizational Process Analysis. 1 Credits.
Learners will be able to analyze the effectiveness and clarity of organizational processes and identify changes to identify waste and improve processes.
HU-C 825. Organizational Process Improvement. 1 Credits.
Learners will be able to apply process improvement tools to implement changes in organizational processes.
HU-C 826. Resource Allocation. 1 Credits.
Learners can use budgeting models, risk assessments and performance information to inform decisions about allocating human and financial resources to achieve organizational goals.
HU-C 827. Capstone Consulting Skills. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to integrate the three essential elements of the HOPE Framework — the human performance equation, the basic progression of performance, and the process of reverse engineering — into the consulting contract and process in order to create effective solutions that are aligned with the organization’s goals and value proposition, ultimately resulting in a consulting engagement that meets the customer’s expectations.
HU-C 828. Capstone Needs Analysis and Planning. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to analyze an organization’s context and needs in order to identify and plan an organizational improvement initiative.
HU-C 829. Capstone Implementation and Review. 1 Credits.
Learners are able to implement an organizational improvement initiative, review its impact, and communicate results and recommendations to key stakeholders.
Courses
HUOP 840. Foundations of Human and Organization Performance Effectiveness I. 3 Credits.
Students will gain a foundational understanding of human and organizational performance effectiveness and the underlying theories. This course will cover the value of aligning individual performance with organizational goals, the model used to evaluate the relationship between human performance and organizational outcomes, and the concept of reverse engineering. Students will utilize case studies to explore these topics.
HUOP 841. Organizational Systems, Culture, and Analysis. 3 Credits.
This course explores the dynamics between organizational culture, leadership behavior, and employee motivation through a systems-thinking lens. Students will develop the ability to conduct a systemic culture analysis, evaluating how structures, processes, and people collectively influence organizational performance. This course prepares students to diagnose organizational challenges holistically and implement targeted, sustainable solutions.
HUOP 842. Human Motivation and Incentive Systems: Setting Expectations and Giving Feedback. 3 Credits.
The objective of this course is to examine human motivation in the workplace including how incentives, expectations and feedback impact performance effectiveness for both the individual and organization. Students will learn the foundational aspects of employee compensation, practical approaches to setting expectations and explore how feedback and accountability leads to improved performance. Students will learn applied strategies and best practices for developing assessment tools, evaluating performance, diagnosing and understanding performance problems while seeing directly how these impact the organization’s overall performance.
HUOP 843. Corporate Training and Instructional Design. 3 Credits.
In this course, students will focus on training and instructional design in the workplace as well as the relationship between training and development and high performing organizations. Students will take a comprehensive approach to corporate training including assessing learning opportunities, examining processes, instructional strategies, curriculum development, and implementing training and development programs throughout an organization.
HUOP 844. Foundations of Human and Organization Performance Effectiveness II. 3 Credits.
Students will gain a foundational understanding of human and organizational performance effectiveness and the tools needed to design learning environments and implement them in organizations. This course will cover design of individual training programs, the techniques for assessment, and the skills needed to engage with organizational actions during implementation of a performance improvement in the organization. Students will utilize case studies to explore these topics. Prerequisite: HUOP 840.
HUOP 845. Organizational Performance Management I. 3 Credits.
This course will focus on creating and assessing performance measures at the organization level and the processes for creating, tracking, and evaluating those measures. It will cover the creation of key performance indicators to match organizational goals and strategies and data collection and analysis.
HUOP 846. Organizational Performance Management II. 3 Credits.
This course prepares students to make strategic decisions about resource allocation and process improvement in support of organizational effectiveness and continuous improvement. Students advance the foundation established in HUOP 845 and learn to apply budgeting models, risk assessments, and performance data to guide the allocation of human and financial resources in alignment with organizational goals. Prerequisite: HUOP 845.
HUOP 848. Organizational Change. 3 Credits.
This course equips students with the skills and frameworks needed to lead effective organizational change. Learners will develop the ability to define change initiatives, identify the organizational processes and systems impacted, and articulate the strategic value of change. The course will prepare students to design targeted strategies that anticipate stakeholder concerns, reduce resistance, and promote engagement throughout the change process.
HUOP 854. Task Analysis. 3 Credits.
Task analysis is the process of learning about users through observation to thoroughly understand how they perform their tasks and achieves their goals. This course will guide students through the task analysis process, understanding the hierarchical and cogitative task analysis variants, and applied approaches. Students will learn to identify tasks and subtasks, explore how task analysis can improve efficiency of goal setting, training, task completion, and overall operations. Students will take a hands-on approach to task analysis through observation, case studies, and performing their own task analysis in their current work. Prerequisite: HUOP 840.
HUOP 855. User Centered Design. 3 Credits.
Students will examine user-centered design in an organizational setting from a variety of perspectives. Students will explore the design process to gain an understanding of its users, their needs, and how those align with the mission or goals of the organization. Student will learn about the internal and external stakeholder experience, how those experiences are shaped by new technology, training, and development, and approaches to help shape future experiences. Prerequisite: HUOP 840.
HUOP 856. Organizational Strategy: Purpose-Driven Planning. 3 Credits.
This course provides students with the knowledge and tools to design, develop, and implement effective strategic planning processes tailored to an organization’s unique context and needs. Students will learn to prepare for a strategic planning initiative by gathering and analyzing relevant organizational and environmental data to inform the planning approach. The course guides learners through the process of producing a comprehensive strategic plan, including the development of clear objectives, actionable strategies, and measurable tactics aligned with the organization’s vision for the future.
HUOP 857. Talent Selection and Development. 3 Credits.
The ability to successfully select, onboard, motivate, and retain talent is essential for organizational performance and effectiveness. This course explores the key role that talent development plays in driving individual and organizational success. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical frameworks and applied best practices. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, students will develop skills to align human capital strategies with organizational goals.
HUOP 896. Capstone Project in Human and Organization Performance Effectiveness. 3 Credits.
This course is reserved for students working on the capstone project required to complete the degree in human and organization performance effectiveness. The specific topic, research method, organizational sponsor, and meeting schedule will be worked out between the supervising faculty member and individual student(s). The capstone project must be pre-approved by the faculty member supervising the capstone project. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
HUOP 898. Special Topics in Human & Organizational Performance Effectiveness: _____. 1-3 Credits.
The specific topic of this course may vary from semester to semester; course will explore a variety of current issues related to human and organizational performance effectiveness, with a focus on translating research into practice within organizations.
Courses
ITEC 301. Survey of Information Systems. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge to understand and navigate the dynamic landscape of information systems within organizations and society at large. Throughout this course, students explore the multifaceted nature of information systems, examining how they can both benefit and potentially have adverse impacts on society. By delving into topics such as social computing, big data, business analytics, e-commerce, information systems development, security, privacy, and ethical issues, students will gain a comprehensive foundation of information systems. This course recognizes the importance of digital literacy and information literacy in today's academic, social, and professional environments. Students will develop the necessary skills to effectively utilize and critically evaluate information systems in various contexts and make informed decisions that contribute effectively in an increasingly technology-driven world.
ITEC 302. Python, Algorithms, and Data Structures. 3 Credits.
Introductory course in programming using the Python language, designed to familiarize students with problem solving via high level, general purpose, programming languages. Elements of object-oriented design, such as class structure definitions, class use, and class extensibility will be applied in problem solving exercises and projects. Students will be introduced to common algorithms and data structures such as: arrays, lists, files, searching, and sorting.
ITEC 303. Discrete Math for Information Technology Professionals. 3 Credits.
ITEC 310. Computer Organization and Platform Technologies. 3 Credits.
Machine-level representation of data, digital logic and digital systems, computer architecture and organization, computing infrastructure, introduction to multiprocessing systems, firmware, hardware and software integration, introduction to intersystems communications, enterprise deployment management introduction to virtual machine emulation, platform technologies. Prerequisite: ITEC 302 or EECS 268 and ITEC 303 or EECS 210.
ITEC 312. Emerging Technologies in Cybersecurity. 3 Credits.
Principles and practical hands-on applications of evolving technologies and techniques for rising cyber-attack detection and prevention are examined in this course. Topics include firewalls, virtual private networks, authentication technologies, and access control intrusion. Detection and prevention systems as well as data loss prevention devices and mechanisms will be explored. Students will also learn about evolving security incident and management tools.
ITEC 314. Fundamentals of Applied Data Analytics. 3 Credits.
In this course you will develop your data science skills while solving real-world problems. Students will work through the data science process and use unsupervised learning to explore data, engineer and select meaningful features, and solve complex supervised learning problems using tree-based models. Students will also learn to apply hyperparameter tuning and cross-validation strategies to improve model performance.
ITEC 316. Database Applications. 3 Credits.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with fundamental concepts of designing and maintaining database projects from a manager or team lead's perspective. Students will gain the foundational knowledge needed to work with database applications utilizing current development strategies. Students will examine various types of databases with an emphasis on relational design. Students will explore file organization techniques, data tables, and data structures. Consideration of the management of data as a resource will be introduced. Students will analyze business applications for databases, selecting one to complete as a final project. Assignments will investigate such topics as; database terminology, completing field definitions and table specifications, interviewing end users, selecting primary keys, and creating data views. The course will conclude with a look at the future of databases.
ITEC 320. System and Network Administration. 3 Credits.
This course introduces operating systems and network administration and presents topics related to selection, installation, configuration, and maintenance of operating systems and computer networks. Topics to be covered include: Unix and Windows operating systems installation, configuration, and maintenance, server administration and management, client and server services, user and group management and support, software systems installation and configuration, content management and deployment, security management, network administration, backup management and disaster recovery, resource management, automation management, operating systems and Web domain management, operating systems and application version control management. A laboratory component will provide hands-on experience with system and network administration. Prerequisite: ITEC 302 or EECS 268 and ITEC 303 or EECS 210. Corequisite: ITEC 310.
ITEC 330. Web Systems and Technologies. 3 Credits.
The objective of this course is to discuss how the Web systems are programmed and maintained and how online pages are created and delivered by Web servers and used by clients. Topics to be covered include: Web systems and technologies, information architecture, digital media, Web development, Web standards, vulnerabilities, social network software, client-side programming, server-side programming, Web services and servers, XHTML, CSS, flash and CGI programming, CSS, Web systems security, JavaScript, PHP, and emerging technologies. Prerequisite: ITEC 302 or EECS 268 and ITEC 303 or EECS 210. Corequisite: ITEC 310.
ITEC 340. Computer and Information Security. 3 Credits.
Fundamentals of computer security, security mechanisms, information states, security attacks, threat analysis models, vulnerability analysis models, introduction to cryptography, authentication, intrusion detection, intrusion prevention (firewalls), operating systems security, database security, software security, host hardening, incident and disaster response.
ITEC 342. Information Security Management. 3 Credits.
The objective of this course is to present topics related to the administration and management of information security. Topics to be covered include: security fundamentals, operational issues, cost-benefit analysis, asset management, security risk management, security policies and enforcement, risk avoidance, risk prevention, risk transfer, security services, security forensics, contingency planning, security auditing. A laboratory component will provide hands-on experience with security management and administration. Prerequisite: ITEC 340 or consent of instructor.
ITEC 380. Managing IT Projects. 3 Credits.
The objectives of this course are to cover the fundamental concepts in managing IT projects. Topics include planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing a project, designing a comprehensive project management plan, developing strategies in managing complexity in large projects, and understanding agility in project management. Project management concepts such as planning, scheduling, cost and effort estimation, risk analysis and mitigation, human resources management, communication management, and stakeholder management will be presented in detail.
ITEC 399. Directed Reading in ITEC. 1-4 Credits.
Reading under the supervision of an instructor on a topic in Information Technology. The topic, expected outcome, evaluation criteria, and the number of credit hours must be mutually agreed on by the student and the instructor. Course may not be used to fulfill major elective requirements. Consent of the department required for enrollment. Prerequisite: Instructor permission required.
ITEC 404. Fundamentals of Data Visualization. 3 Credits.
Analysis of data sets is of little use if the information discovered cannot be conveyed to key organizational stakeholders. This course focuses on the best way to communicate the information that the data analysis is trying to tell. Students will learn best practices for telling stories with data and set up data visualizations and dashboards. Students will complete the course with a full understanding of how to communicate data.
ITEC 406. Data Mining and Intelligence. 3 Credits.
Students learn to survey a variety of data mining techniques used in the information technology field. Data mining is the ability to process a data set and make meaning out of its contents. Students will use a statistical programming language to perform data mining techniques using a number of different data sets.
ITEC 410. Software Engineering and Management. 3 Credits.
This course introduces the software development life cycle and key concepts related to software engineering. Topics include software process models, software project management, software requirements engineering, formal and informal modeling, software architecture, software design, coding and implementation, software testing and quality assurance, software deployment, and software evolution. Additional topics such as software metrics and measures, application domains, software engineering standards, and software configuration management will also be presented. This is a project-driven course.
ITEC 412. Predictive Analytics and Forecasting. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on the predictive analytics that organizations need to be able to make decisions about current and future events. Students learn about the analytical tools necessary to analyze and develop forecasts for real-world situations. The course prepares learners to help organizations make more effective decisions based on the gathering and analysis of data as well as the use of modern forecasting techniques applied to make intelligent decisions. Prerequisite: ITEC 302.
ITEC 414. Database Design. 3 Credits.
The objective of this course is to present key concepts related to database design and implementation. Topics to be discussed include: database architecture, relational data model, SQL, database design life cycle, conceptual data modeling, relational database normalization, query processing, transaction processing, database security, and database administration. This is a project-driven course. Prerequisite: ITEC 330.
ITEC 416. System Integration and Architecture. 3 Credits.
This course introduces system integration and architecture. Key concepts to be presented include: system architecture, system requirements, organizational context, acquisition and sourcing, system and component integration, middleware platforms, design patterns, integrative coding, scripting coding, testing and quality assurance, system deployment. Prerequisite: ITEC 410.
ITEC 420. Operating Systems. 3 Credits.
This course introduces operating systems principles and associated key concepts. Topics to be discussed include: processes and threads, concurrency, scheduling and dispatch, memory management, processor management, device management, security and protection, file system, disk scheduling, real-time and embedded systems, fault tolerance, scripting, and an introduction to virtualization.
ITEC 422. Computer Networks. 3 Credits.
Foundations of computer networking with practical applications and network administration, with emphasis on the Internet and wireless public switched telephone network. Topics to be covered include routing and switching, routing algorithms, physical layer, data link layer, network layer, network security, network management, and application areas.
ITEC 424. Network Security. 3 Credits.
This course covers the fundamental concepts, principles, and mechanisms in network and distributed system security. The topics that will be covered include: network security primitives, distributed authentication, key management, secure communication protocols, firewalls, intrusion detection, traffic monitoring and analysis, email and Web security, etc. Prerequisite: ITEC 340 and ITEC 422, or consent of instructor.
ITEC 426. Cyber Defense and Countermeasures. 3 Credits.
This course explores recent software and hardware tools and technologies for cyber defense. Examination of network-based countermeasures for Encrypting IP data, IPsec, TCP set above the IP, securing web page access with SSL/TLS will be introduced to students. Teams of students will be engaged in practical hands-on applications of recent behavioral analytics and artificial intelligence tools to gain insights into behavioral patterns of users and hackers in cyber-attacks and defense. Prerequisite: ITEC 340 and ITEC 422 or consent of instructor.
ITEC 428. Testing and Vulnerability Analysis. 3 Credits.
This course explores the fundamentals and tools for penetration testing. Students will utilize tools and methodologies for collecting information; recognize faults and vulnerabilities in documentation, software, and computer systems; and exploit and fix defects. Students will participate in teams on practical hands-on analysis of vulnerabilities in web servers and web and mobile applications. Prerequisite: ITEC 340 and ITEC 422 or consent of instructor.
ITEC 429. Digital Forensics. 3 Credits.
In-depth data analysis and reviews of data such as log, system, history and email files on computer systems will be explored. Students will also explore the principles of chain of evidence, electronic document discovery, eavesdropping and entrapment. Hands-on experience with forensic tools for exploring digital evidence and computer crimes will also be provided. Prerequisite: ITEC 340 and ITEC 422, or consent of instructor.
ITEC 430. Human-Computer Interaction. 3 Credits.
This course introduces principles of human-computer interaction. Important topics to be presented include: human factors, human-centered design and evaluation, graphical user interfaces, multimedia system integration, interactive systems development, computer-supported cooperative work, human cognitive skills, accessibility, alternative input/output media, and emerging technologies.
ITEC 440. Cloud Computing. 3 Credits.
This course introduces principles of cloud computing and the business and computing technology trends that enable and necessitate its uses. Cloud computing and its engineering and delivery models, Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), will be covered. Cloud-based and RESTful web services for developing new applications and offering new services will be discussed. Topics related to cloud computing security, identity, auditing, and authorization management will be presented. The course will be project based and an existing cloud computing platform (e.g., Amazon AWS) will used for projects.
This course will provide an overview of the history of computing and presents key concepts related to the social and professional aspects of IT. Topics to be covered include: pervasive themes in IT, social context of computing, intellectual property, legal issues in computing, professional and ethical issues and responsibilities, privacy and civil liberties.
ITEC 452. Special Topics in ITEC: _____. 3 Credits.
This course introduces a special topic of current interest in information technology, offered as the need arises. May be repeated for additional credit.
ITEC 454. Information Security Law and Policy. 3 Credits.
Students will be introduced to policies for providing identity, privacy, access, and account management security. Students will also learn about policies for incident response, disaster recovery, and governance of information systems. Government security laws and compliance for protecting intellectual property and information systems will be included. Students will participate in teams on practical hands-on activities with security auditing and compliance tools. Examination of computer crime laws and recent security breaches will also be included.
Capstone is a senior level course designed to allow a student to review, analyze, integrate, and apply technical knowledge in a meaningful and practical manner. The student will be expected to complete an approved academic project in IT that may be in collaboration with an industrial partner. Prerequisite: ITEC 380.
ITEC 610. Applications of Virtualized Systems. 3 Credits.
Understand the fundamental principles and advanced implementation aspects of key virtual machine concepts. Topics include: Hypervisors (QEMU, VMWare, KVM), container management (K8s, Docker, Rancher), and system orchestration.
ITEC 611. Practical Cryptography. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to practical applications of cryptography. Topics covered during this course include: encryption/decryption, digital signatures, hash functions, and block-chain.
ITEC 612. Applications of Artificial Intelligence. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to fundamental concepts, methods, and applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Key topics include AI techniques, machine learning and deep learning algorithms, real-world applications, challenges, and ethical considerations.
ITEC 613. Practical Scripting and Automation. 3 Credits.
The course provides an overview of the fundamental principles required to automate routine processes performed within Powershell, Unix, Linux or other POSIX-Compliant operating environments. Key principles covered include: Powershell, Unix/Linux shell types, parameter passing, storage management, control flow, exception handling, reusability and scripting research resources.
ITEC 632. AI Engineering with Foundation Models. 3 Credits.
This course explores the principles, techniques, and practical workflow of engineering AI systems using modern foundation models that can be adapted for various tasks. Through this course, students will gain deep understanding of the following: conceptual underpinnings of AI engineering and foundation models; strategies for adapting, fine-tuning, and deploying models effectively; real-world application development using foundational model ecosystems and tools; and evaluating model performance, managing ethical considerations, and scaling deployment. Prerequisite: ITEC 612.
ITEC 710. Information Security and Assurance. 3 Credits.
This introductory security course covers a wide range of topics in the area of information and network security, privacy, and risk: the basic concepts: confidentiality, integrity and availability; introduction to cryptography; authentication; security models; information and database security; computer systems security; network security; Internet and web security; risk analysis; social engineering; computer forensics. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in EECS, or permission of the instructor.
ITEC 711. Security Management and Audit. 3 Credits.
Administration and management of security of information systems and networks, intrusion detection systems, vulnerability analysis, anomaly detection, computer forensics, auditing and data management, risk management, contingency planning and incident handling, security planning, e-business and commerce security, privacy, traceability and cyber-evidence, human factors and usability issues, policy, legal issues in computer security.
ITEC 712. Network Security and its Application. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on network-based information and communication systems, and examines network technologies and service applications to provide the students with a comprehensive introduction to the field of network security and its application. The course covers key concepts and critical network security services including authentication and access control, integrity and confidentiality of data, routing, firewalls, virtual private networks, web security, virus protection, and network security architecture and policy development. The students are expected to understand the technical vulnerabilities of networked systems and to develop methods to eliminate or mitigate those vulnerabilities. Prerequisite: ITEC 710 and one of the following: ITEC 422, ITEC 780, EECS 563, or EECS 780.
ITEC 714. Information Security and Cyber Law. 3 Credits.
The objectives of this course is to present an introduction to the legal and ethical issues and challenges in the information age, to provide a survey of legal and ethical issues introduced by information security, and to discuss individual rights vs. national interests. A coverage of key cyber laws that impact information security and IT professionals and topics related to intellectual property, copyrights, digital forensics, e-surveillance, and e-discovery for legal evidence and lawsuits will be provided. A review of preventative legal management practices in the context of information security (including employee awareness training) will be presented.
ITEC 746. Database Systems. 3 Credits.
Introduction to the concept of databases and their operations. Basic database concepts, architectures, and data storage structures and indexing. Though other architectures are discussed, focus is on relational databases and the SQL retrieval language. Normalization, functional dependencies, and multivalued dependencies also covered. Culminates in the design and implementation of a simple database with a web interface. Prerequisite: EECS 448 or consent of instructor. Students cannot receive credit for both EECS 647 and EECS 746.
ITEC 780. Communication Networks. 3 Credits.
Comprehensive in-depth coverage to communication networks with emphasis on the Internet and the PSTN (wired and wireless, and IoT-Internet of Things). Extensive coverage of protocols and algorithms will be presented at all levels, including: social networking, overlay networks, client/server and peer-to-peer applications; session control; transport protocols, the end-to-end arguments and end-to-end congestion control; network architecture, forwarding, routing, signaling, addressing, and traffic management, programmable and software-defined networks (SDN); quality of service, queuing and multimedia applications; LAN architecture, link protocols, access networks and MAC algorithms; physical media characteristics and coding; network security and information assurance; network management.
ITEC 810. Software Engineering and Management. 3 Credits.
Principal concepts in software engineering with a focus on formalism as well as managerial issues; software development models; software process models; software configuration management; software development life cycle activities; project management; planning and estimation; requirements engineering, software architecture, software modular design; software reusability; implementation strategies; testing techniques; software quality assurance; software evolution; metrics and measurements, ethics and professionalism. Prerequisite: Programming experience, preferably in Java or C++.
ITEC 811. IT Project Management. 3 Credits.
Management issues in the creation, development, and maintenance of IT systems; effort and cost estimation techniques; project planning and scheduling; resource allocation; risk analysis and mitigation techniques; quality assurance; project administration; configuration management; organizational issues; software process modeling; process improvement; frameworks for quality software.
ITEC 812. Software Requirements Engineering. 3 Credits.
Objectives, processes, and activities of requirements engineering and requirements management; characteristics of good requirements; types of requirements; managing changing requirements; languages, notations, and methodologies; formal and semi-formal methods of presenting and validating the requirements; requirements standards; traceability issues. Prerequisite: ITEC 810.
ITEC 814. Software Quality Assurance. 3 Credits.
Software quality engineering as an integral facet of development from requirements through delivery and maintenance; verification and validation techniques; manual and automated static analysis techniques; fundamental concepts in software testing; test case selection strategies such as black-box testing, white-box testing; formal verification; unit, integration, system, and acceptance testing; regression testing; designing for testability; models for quality assurance; reviews, inspection, documentation, and standards; industry and government standards for quality. Prerequisite: ITEC 810.
ITEC 818. Software Architecture. 3 Credits.
Designing architectures; software architectural styles and patterns; architectural components and connectors; architectural modeling and analysis, architectural deployment, designing for nonfunctional properties such as efficiency, scaleability, adaptability, and security; domainspecificsoftware architectures; architecture product lines; architecture description languages (ADLs); standards. Prerequisite: ITEC 810.
ITEC 890. Information Technology Capstone. 3 Credits.
The Capstone requires application of knowledge, skills and abilities developed through the Information Technology program. Students will propose and implement a semester long project that embodies the culmination of their experiences within the graduate studies program. Students are strongly encouraged to collaborate with industry partners to develop topics or identify practical applications for their work. Prerequisite: ITEC 710, ITEC 780, ITEC 810 and PFS 804 (or approved project management course).
Courses
OMGT 300. Operations Management. 3 Credits.
This course will provide a foundational understanding of operations strategy, process design, capacity planning, facilities location and design, forecasting, production scheduling, inventory control, quality assurance, and project management. Students will learn a framework for systematically examining and understanding operation management issues as well as exploring tools, systems and practices for practical application. Students will discover analytical techniques, processes, and approaches used to solve, prevent and anticipate problems within an organization.
OMGT 310. Enterprise Strategy and Innovation. 3 Credits.
This course will explore enterprise strategic plan development and implementation by addressing concepts of open innovation, strategic plan development, resource considerations, organizational strengths and weaknesses, environmental opportunities and threats, and management considerations. Students will explore theoretical and practical approaches to address a variety of real-world case studies.
OMGT 320. Enterprise Integration and Implementation for Managing Organizational Supply Chains. 3 Credits.
This course addresses the goals of enterprise processes to design the organization’s supply chains, logistics networks, integration, and sustainability of the organization’s supply chains. Topics include operations planning and scheduling, resource planning, supply chain design, supply chain logistics and networks, supply chain integration, and supply chain sustainability.
OMGT 330. Innovation Management. 3 Credits.
The course focuses on execution challenges that innovation initiatives face, including resourcing, organization, and planning. Students will explore the processes of innovation management for various sizes of companies utilizing smaller scale, local processes to large scale, globally dispersed innovation processes and teams.
OMGT 420. Process Management. 3 Credits.
This course explores concepts, methods, and techniques that support the design, improvement, management, configuration, enactment, and analysis of business processes that deliver lean and customer focused business processes. Students will learn how to organize process improvement initiatives and how to make improvements to work processes. Students will be introduced to techniques for setting organizational priorities for process improvement initiatives and for selecting projects that align with such priorities. Students will be able to understand business process from a management and process analyst perspective, analytical frameworks and general principles for managing business processes.
OMGT 422. Supply Chain Logistics in Operations Management. 3 Credits.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of logistics management within the context of operations management. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in the efficient movement and storage of goods, services, and information throughout the supply chain. Key topics include transportation management, inventory control, warehousing, distribution strategies, and the role of technology in logistics. Prerequisite: Prior completion or concurrent enrollment in OMGT 300.
OMGT 424. Customer Relationship Management in Operations. 3 Credits.
This course delves into the principles and practices of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) within the context of Operations Management. Students will explore strategies and technologies used to manage and analyze customer interactions and data throughout the customer lifecycle. Emphasis is placed on the importance of building and maintaining strong customer relationships to drive operational efficiency and business success. Prerequisite: Prior completion or concurrent enrollment in OMGT 300.
OMGT 430. Corporate Social Responsibility. 3 Credits.
From issues surrounding management of employees during COVID-19 in the workplace, remote workers, the supply chain crunch, and the "great resignation." The primary challenge for managers today is to balance the competing interests of the firm’s stakeholders,’ but also the growing demands of its employees to be socially aware and responsible. This tension is what makes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) so complex and demanding, but it is also what makes CSR integral to a firm’s strategy and day-to-day operations.
OMGT 434. Managing People and Personalities. 3 Credits.
What does it mean to have a personality? Are emotional and social intelligence a kind of professional intelligence? How do these items affect the workplace and the management of individuality in the office. Learn the answers to these questions, as well as everything you need to know about personality, intelligence, and individual differences. From natural selection to intelligence tests, and from personality disorders to the concept of IQ, and the panoramic leadership coverage in today’s workplace.
OMGT 435. Lean Six Sigma Fundamentals. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to the foundational principles and practices of Lean Six Sigma, a methodology focused on improving processes, reducing waste, and enhancing organizational performance. The course emphasizes practical application over statistical depth, making it accessible to students with limited quantitative backgrounds. Students will explore the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework and learn to apply key tools such as process mapping, cause-and-effect analysis, root cause identification, and basic capability assessments. The course also covers Lean concepts including value stream mapping, standardized work, workplace organization (5S), and visual management. Through case studies and hands-on exercises, students will gain the skills to contribute to improvement initiatives in a variety of professional settings. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in either PMGT 305 or OMGT 300.
OMGT 436. Applied Big Data Analytics in Operations Management. 3 Credits.
Operations management is a tool by which companies can effectively meet customers’ needs using the least number of resources necessary. With the emergence of sensors and smart metering, big data is becoming an intrinsic part of modern operations management. Applied Big Data Analytics in Operations Management enumerates the challenges and creative solutions and tools to apply when using big data in operations management. Outlining revolutionary concepts and applications that help businesses predict customer behavior along with applications of artificial neural networks, predictive analytics, and opinion mining on business management topics.
OMGT 438. Service Management in Operations. 3 Credits.
Operations management provides various services in numerous environments from health care to project management. This course will address the integration of technology, operations, and human behavior as central to effective service management. Emphasis is placed on the need for continuous improvement in quality and productivity in order to compete effectively in a global environment.
OMGT 440. Ethical Issues in Operations Management. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to provide students with a psychological and philosophical foundations of business ethics, which includes the ability to recognize ethical problems, exposure to many of the ethically sensitive issues facing corporations and managers in business and examining how to reach closure on ethical problems. Students will examine the role of ethics in the relation of business to employees, consumers, and society. Students will explore ethical positions in case study analyses, investigate ethical issues in their own professional lives, and develop and present their solutions for typical ethical problems faced by managers in organizations.
OMGT 480. Digital Transformation in Operation Management. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to the essential principles of digital transformation in operations management. Through real-world case studies and practical applications, students will explore how businesses adapt to evolving market demands, integrate emerging technologies, and implement strategic initiatives to drive efficiency and innovation. By the end of the course, students will gain the knowledge and leadership skills needed to navigate digital disruption, foster innovation, and enhance operational strategies in a dynamic business environment.
The project-based capstone course serves as a culminating experience for this degree. Students will develop an applied workforce project that represents that competencies developed throughout the program. The students will document their project in a written report and present their project during the final oral examination to the Operations Management facility. This course should be taken in the final semester of their BAS in OMGT program. Prerequisite: OMGT 300 and 9 additional OMGT course credit hours.
OMGT 550. Internship in Operations Management. 3 Credits.
The student completes an internship in industry in operations management under the supervision of a manager to learn practical aspects of operations management. Students interested in pursuing this internship option are fully responsible for securing an opportunity with an organization. Students must prepare a proposal outlining their planned activities, obtain approval from the organization supervisor, and submit it to the course instructor for authorization at least two weeks before beginning the internship. Approval forms will not be accepted after the internship has started. At a minimum, students must submit a final report and presentation, and a satisfactory evaluation from the supervisor is required to earn credit. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. Prerequisite: Completion of 12 credits of Operations Management (OMGT) courses or instructor approval.
Courses
PFS 110. Icons and Influence in the Age of Social Media. 3 Credits.
This course explores how celebrities, athletes, and influencers impact our perceptions and purchase behaviors in the age of social media. Students will learn the foundations of influence and persuasion in the context of marketing and social media. The topics covered include the history of influence, the evolution of social media, elements of endorsements, impacts of social media on society, and how social media has impacted influencer culture.
PFS 300. Introduction to Professional Performance. 3 Credits.
This course provides an introduction to professional performance, including entrepreneurship, media and marketing, brand creation, “influencing,” web design, life skills, personal and business finance, communication, exposure to laws related to Title IX, networking, ethics, and career management. Class sessions will feature speakers from varying areas of specialty to provide students an in depth look into their specialty while understanding how each of these components are integrated in professional performance.
PFS 301. Communication in the Workplace. 3 Credits.
This course presents an overview of communication dynamics in the modern increasingly complex, diverse and dispersed modern workplace. Course content and activities will explore the various task, relational and identity dynamics that generate effective communication across a variety of different workplace relationships and situations. Special consideration will be given to understanding the influence of workplace power dynamics/hierarchies, communication technologies, identities, and cultural differences in delivering effective interpersonal, small group, written and presentation messages. Course activities will help emerging professionals recognize how to leverage their daily communication at work to earn trust, build productive working relationships, and organize collaborative work processes to achieve workplace goals.
PFS 302. Leadership in Practice. 3 Credits.
This course will introduce students to the principal theories of effective leadership, ranging from the "individual star" model to contemporary frameworks of distributive and collaborative leadership. The course draws important distinctions between leadership and management and assists learners in understanding their natural preferences. Through exercises, assignments, lectures, videos, case studies, and discussion, we transform theory into applicable, real-world practice. Students will experience a dynamic, applied, and realistic view of what leadership is like in contemporary organizational life. Topics include strategic thinking, operational excellence, emotional intelligence, navigating change, conflict management, and team communication.
PFS 303. Professionalism and the Workplace. 3 Credits.
This course presents an overview of the importance and challenges associated with professionalism and the workplace expectations regarding demonstrating respect for coworkers, colleagues, and customers, business etiquette and attire, appropriate use of communication tools, and acting in the best interest of the organization, community, and the environment. The basic skills necessary for achieving success in today's challenging work environment are enhanced through this course.
PFS 400. Professional Performance Ethics. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to provide students with a psychological and philosophical foundation of ethics, which includes the ability to recognize ethical problems, exposure to many of the ethically sensitive issues they may encounter in their career, and how to reach closure on ethical problems. Students will explore ethical problems in case study analyses, investigate ethical issues in their own professional lives, and develop and present their solutions.
PFS 410. Personal Finance and Professional Career Management. 3 Credits.
This course will provide the tools to help you better understand and improve the financial and career decisions you make throughout your life and how they impact one another. Students will learn how to analyze the financial effects of spending, investing, and saving at each stage of your career. Students will choose focused learning activities that meet their specific career goals and needs.
PFS 415. AI and Innovation in the Workplace. 3 Credits.
This course presents an overview of ways AI can be used in the professional context. Students will be given foundational knowledge to help them understand the principles and mechanics of AI systems, models, and tools. Students will learn practical applications of the tools and how to develop prompts to obtain desired results. Through expert insights, case studies, and hands-on projects, students will explore ways that AI can be used to increase productivity and improve content and output. The course will examine ethical and societal implications of AI, fostering ethical use of AI in the workplace.
PFS 420. Starting and Managing your Performance Career. 3 Credits.
In this course, students will learn about the professional world of professional performance and how to create a career surrounding their athletic, artistic or personal talents. Specifically, those enrolled will be exposed to the multitude of career paths and how to start and manage your career.
PFS 437. Ethics and Integrity in the Workplace. 3 Credits.
This course examines the principles and practices of ethical leadership in contemporary organizational contexts. Students will explore frameworks for ethical decision-making, corporate social responsibility, and professional accountability, with attention to both individual integrity and organizational culture. Emphasis is placed on navigating complex dilemmas, balancing competing stakeholder interests, and fostering ethical climates that support trust and transparency. Through case studies, applied activities, and critical reflection, students will strengthen their ability to lead responsibly and model integrity in diverse workplace settings.
PFS 439. Conflict and High-Impact Teams. 3 Credits.
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage conflict effectively while fostering collaboration and innovation in professional team environments. Students will examine common sources of workplace conflict, practice proven resolution strategies, and apply communication frameworks to reduce tension and enhance productivity. Emphasis is placed on understanding diverse perspectives, building trust, and cultivating psychological safety as foundations for high-impact teams. Through case studies, applied activities, and reflective practice, students will learn to navigate challenging interpersonal dynamics and strengthen their ability to lead and contribute to cohesive, results-driven teams.
PFS 450. Special Topics in Professional Performance: _____. 3 Credits.
This is a variable-topic course allowing students to examine timely professional performance topics. Its purpose is to allow the occasional offering of topics not covered by established courses. These courses may be lecture, seminars, or readings. Students may enroll in more than one topics course, but may enroll in that topic only once.
PFS 490. Internship Exploration. 1-6 Credits.
PFS 490 Internship Exploration – This course provides credit for supervised practical experiences in an area of interest. In addition to the work-related activity, students will be expected to complete reading and writing assignments, participate in on-line discussions, and create a final summary of internship accomplishments. Hours of credit earned (1-6) are based on number of hours at internship site and agreement of instructor. Repeatable for up to 6 credit hours, provided the internship experiences are different. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
PFS 497. Independent Study in Professional Performance. 3 Credits.
This independent study offers students the opportunity to explore and develop professional performance skills through a personalized, project-based learning experience. Working closely with a faculty mentor, students will design and execute a performance-centered project that reflects their academic interests, career goals, or creative aspirations. Students will document their process, engage in critical self-assessment, and present their work in a format appropriate to their field. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.
PFS 499. Professional Performance Capstone. 3 Credits.
The project-based capstone course serves as a culminating experience for this degree. Students will develop an applied workforce project that represents that competencies developed throughout the program. The students will document their project in a written report and present their project during the final oral examination to the Professional Performance facility. This course should be taken in the final semester of their program. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
PFS 500. Branding, Marketing, and PR in Professional Performance. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to give students basic knowledge of branding, marketing, and PR for their personal brand and business. Students will learn how to apply concepts to help promote themselves, their content, and their products and services to monetize their talents and expertise. Students will create personalized brand and marketing plans to help them be successful. Prerequisite: PFS 300 or concurrent enrollment.
PFS 501. Professional Content Creation & Influencing Others. 3 Credits.
This course provides students with an overview of how to create content for their personal and professional brand. A variety of platforms, social media and general media, and content types will be covered including long-form and short-form content. Students will be introduced to and gain experience with basic and advanced tools and applications for content creation. Prerequisite: PFS 300 or concurrent enrollment.
PFS 502. Monetization Methods & Revenue Streams. 3 Credits.
This course will introduce students to a multitude of ways to monetize their talents and expertise. Topics covered will include brand partnerships, online courses, advertising, affiliate links, membership communities, and more. Students will create a roadmap for revenue streams they will use in their businesses one day. Prerequisite: PFS 300 or concurrent enrollment.
PFS 505. Developing Engaged Audiences & Communities. 3 Credits.
Students will learn the basics of building audiences and communities. Topics include how to attract and engage an audience across social and digital platforms, the purpose of online communities for creators and influencers, and how to build community in online and offline environments. The course will also teach students how to create systems and processes to manage their audience and community and tactics for interaction with members. Prerequisite: PFS 300 or concurrent enrollment.
PFS 520. Advanced Brand Partnerships in Professional Performance. 3 Credits.
This course builds on the basics of brand partnerships to help students navigate the ethical, legal, and societal implications of brand partnerships. Students will explore different partnership deal options, how to grow partnerships into mutually beneficial, long-term relationships, and how to dissolve partnerships. They will practice brand pitches via email, phone, and in-person interactions. Prerequisite: PFS 502.
PFS 530. Writing and Speaking for Decision Makers. 3 Credits.
This course is an advanced level communication skills course focused on developing and refining managerial-level business writing and presentation skills. Course assignments and activities provide practice and expert feedback on these core professional skills. Course content offers research-based insights to develop one's ability to assess various stakeholders' needs, motivations and values, while also addressing critical situational needs and relational concerns in a variety of workplace communication scenarios. Participants learn to craft communication that is thoughtful, strategic, research-backed, and designed to signal their readiness for additional career development opportunities. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in PFS 730.
PFS 550. The Professional Athlete Experience. 3 Credits.
This course will introduce students to the basics of being a professional athlete. Topics include navigating sport structures, managing an individual presence within team and league environments, and public relations basics for athletes. Students will receive instruction on how to interact with the media and how to manage conflict and media scrutiny.
PFS 555. Understanding Data for Professional Athletes. 3 Credits.
Students in this course will be introduced to the use of analytics for talent evaluation, in-game decision making, training, and lineup analysis. Students will learn the history of data in sport and how analytics have changed strategies across many different sports. The course will also cover technology in sports analytics and how data is used in broadcasting.
The project-based capstone course serves as a culminating experience for this degree. Students will develop an applied workforce project that represents the competencies developed throughout the program. The students will document their project in a written report and present their project during the final oral examination to the Professional Performance faculty. This course should be taken in the final semester of their program. Prerequisite: Nine credits in the Professional Performance Core and an additional nine credits from the Professional Performance Core/Electives.
PFS 597. Field Experience in Professional Performance. 1-6 Credits.
This course provides credit for supervised field experiences focused on professional performance in a relevant area of interest. Students will engage in hands-on, performance-based work in a professional or community setting, for their own personal brand or someone else’s, applying skills and concepts learned in the classroom to real-world contexts. In addition to the fieldwork, students will complete reading and writing assignments, participate in reflective discussions, and produce a final summary or presentation of their accomplishments and learning outcomes. Prerequisite: Consent of the instructor.
The capstone serves as a culminating experience for the Bachelor of Professional Studies curriculum. Students will demonstrate what they have learned throughout the program by applying leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills to real-world situations associated with their chosen concentration. Prerequisite: PFS 301, PFS 302, PFS 303 and at least 9 credit hours in their chosen concentration.
PFS 730. Writing and Speaking for Decision Makers. 3 Credits.
This courses is an advanced level communication skills course focused on developing and refining managerial-level business writing and presentation skills. Course assignments and activities provide practice and expert feedback on these core professional skills. Course content offers research-based insights to develop one's ability to assess various stakeholders' needs, motivations and values, while also addressing critical situational needs and relational concerns in a variety of workplace communication scenarios. Participants learn to craft communication that is thoughtful, strategic, research-backed, and designed to signal their readiness for additional career development opportunities. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 Level. Not open to students with credit in PFS 530.
PFS 741. Intercultural Communication in Organizations. 3 Credits.
This course explores the intercultural communication dynamics that influence individual work satisfaction, workplace relationships, team effectiveness and project outcomes across an increasingly global workforce. Course content and activities will focus on understanding how national and regional cultural differences influence group and team dynamics. Special focus will be on de-centering one's own cultural norms and personal preferences and adapting to engage in communication that signals respect for cultural difference at work. Topics will include developing personal awareness, appreciation and skills required to respectfully and effectively engage difference related (but not limited) to language, time, gender, family status, religion, and the role of organizational hierarchies in shaping colleagues' communication at work. Course will focus on how to adapt to these areas of difference and using strategies for integrating flexibility while collaborating with diverse colleagues to achieve shared organizational goals.
PFS 801. Interpersonal and Persuasive Communication Skills for Managers. 3 Credits.
This course examines how communication practices and patterns influence employee engagement, team productivity, organizational cultures, and individual career development. In short, this course centers communication as the primary way people organize, build relationships and get things done in organizations. Factors influencing what makes communication "effective" in various contexts and relationships will be identified, providing you a toolkit for enhancing team effectiveness and business outcomes, as well as facilitating your individual career advancement. Course activities and assignments are designed to build self-awareness and global workplace communication competencies, with a focus on situational awareness and personal adaptability. The course is designed to differentiate KU graduates by providing a powerful set of research-based communication concepts and frameworks for use in diagnosing and meaningfully addressing the most common work and career-related challenges facing mid-career professionals in today's increasingly complex, diverse and ever-changing organizations.
PFS 802. Managing Teams and Leading People. 3 Credits.
This course examines the foundational body of knowledge relating to effective organizational management and leadership. Beginning with an exploration of the essential differences between management and leadership, the course then addresses such topics as leading with emotional intelligence, change management, organizational culture, individual and team performance coaching and management, innovation theories, stakeholder analysis, and personal brand development.
PFS 803. Financial Management for Professional Success. 3 Credits.
This course introduces the concepts and applications of financial planning and management for professional managers working in diverse professional environments. Topics include time value of money, asset valuation, capital structures and budgeting, financial analysis and cash flow, and project and operations decision-making. This "finance for non-financial managers" course equips managers with the fundamental knowledge and skills to operate a unit in collaboration with their organization's financial professionals.
PFS 804. Project Management for Professionals. 3 Credits.
This course introduces the project management body of knowledge with a focus on developing project management plans for use in diverse professional environments. The project life cycle is covered from inception to closeout with an emphasis on project scope, budget, schedule, and risk; and practical application of stakeholder, procurement, resource, quality, and communication management. The course will be valuable to managers of units, teams and organizations either to directly manage projects of various types or have a strong understanding of what to expect from formal project managers.
PFS 805. Data Driven Storytelling. 3 Credits.
The ability to effectively communicate insights from a dataset using narratives and visualizations is a valuable skill. In Data-Driven Storytelling, students will learn how to detect and articulate the stories behind data sets and communicate data findings in visual, oral, and written contexts for various internal and external stakeholders. Students will learn storytelling concepts, narrative theories, and performance techniques to develop compelling and persuasive stories about data to assist organizations in making better data-driven decisions. Additionally, students will practice creating visual representations of data, as effective visualizations can be useful for communicating the story of the data clearly and memorably. In this course, students will gain an understanding of Tableau, a data visualization tool.
PFS 810. Organizational Communication Strategies. 3 Credits.
This course addresses key communication processes in organizations, including developing effective workplace relationships and nurturing organizational cultures and team work in increasingly complex, global organizations. Topics include change management communication strategies, how organizational hierarchies and other structures influence communication flows, the role of different social group identities in shaping individual's experiences within organizations, and managing virtual teams. Students will be able to identify the influence of organizational culture, power dynamics, and communication ethics on workplace communication patterns and outcomes, and will craft communication strategies to enhance workplace cultures, project outcomes and personal leadership communication skills.
PFS 821. Employee Onboarding and Role Development. 3 Credits.
This course explores the communication dynamics that facilitate employee onboarding and integration for new hires and newly promoted supervisors, managers and leaders. Content and activities will explore the challenges and opportunities embedded in the socialization process for individuals and organizations, including the hidden communication complexities of role transitions, including navigating expectations of colleagues, understanding the dynamics of the personal identity shift one must navigate during transition, and balancing the desire to affect change with the pressure to assimilate into organizational expectations. Participants will design an onboarding and communication plan for a workplace socialization need of their choice.
PFS 823. Organizational Change and Communication. 3 Credits.
This course explores communication processes embedded in organizational change, with a specific focus on identifying the needs, expectations and values of various stakeholders who will be participating in and/or affected by an organizational change. Course focuses on understanding change as an inherently communicative process (rather than only a business strategy). Participants will learn to identify a full range of internal and external stakeholders, recognize the root causes of stakeholder concerns, and understand common sources of "resistance" to change at every level of an organization. Participants will develop a comprehensive communication plan and sample communication documents to engage the full range of stakeholders in change planning, implementation and long-term integration into organizational culture and structures related to a change of their choice.
PFS 825. Communication Practices for Inclusive Organizations. 3 Credits.
This course examines the challenges and opportunities facing individuals in organizations. Weekly discussion and assignments will examine the challenges and opportunities employees/members face based on navigating organizational structures, workplace cultures and leadership actions. Participants will develop strategies to build inclusive workplace around race, gender, age, sexuality, (dis)ability, socioeconomic status, and other social identities. Challenges and opportunities related to intersectional identities will be explored as well. The class has an applied, practical focus featuring weekly guest speakers and focus on becoming more aware of forms of personal privilege and becoming advocates for meaningful change within organizations.
PFS 827. Communication Ethics for Managers and Leaders. 3 Credits.
This course examines current leadership communication and workplace culture issues through a lens of communication ethics. The course uses several frameworks for identifying ethical issues in the communication used to organize people and ideas within organizations and communities. Communication ethics and related power dynamics shaping communication processes and outcomes will be explored related to employee engagement campaigns, corporate communication tactics, leadership and management communication practices, conflict resolution practices within organizations, and communicating organizational change. Participants will gain skills and confidence to recognize and actively engage with the communication ethics concerns embedded in today's daily workplace interactions, leadership and management communication, decision-making processes, organizational policy creation, and corporate communication initiatives.
PFS 829. Communicating Across Workplace Generations. 3 Credits.
This course explores the dimensions of the popular "generations" framing of age-related diversity in the modern workplace. This course will unpack and challenge the concept of "generations" and its implications for workplace cultures, policies, leadership and career development practices. Course will explore different types of generations that emerge within organizations related to factors like workplace cohort, team dynamics and individual lifestage. Organizational communication assumptions, patterns and practices will be centered as a factor in shaping the individual experiences of these generational members, with the goal of identifying new strategies for stimulating meaningful, productive cross-generational working relationships, mentoring and collaboration across organizations.
PFS 833. Communication and Team Development. 3 Credits.
This course will explore team development through the lens of communication, exploring requisite individual teaming skills, team-level processes and organizational-level norms and structures. The course will provide research-based insights to help team managers and leaders facilitate more effective team onboarding, decision-making and conflict management processes across organizational structures, while recognizing individual difference and utilizing inclusive communication practices that fuel rewarding teamwork, positive project outcomes and career development for all. Course content will discuss necessary forms of organizational-level sponsorship, structures, technology access, and training necessary to support team communication and development. This course will be especially helpful for those serving in (or seeking to advance into) team management and leadership roles.
PFS 835. Interpersonal Communication Skills at Work. 3 Credits.
This course provides research-based interpersonal communication insights for developing personal effectiveness across increasingly global, complex and resource-constrained organizations. Course content and activities will help professionals work on personal skill development related to building effective working relationships, initiating difficult conversations, navigating conflict, building internal and external networks, effectively advocating for self and others, and demonstrating a commitment to personal communication ethics. Insights and skill practice will focus on developing a personal communication skillset for working effectively across various situations, cultural contexts and stakeholder groups. Content will be helpful for both individuals and managers/leaders recognizing the need to further develop their interpersonal skills in various workplace settings.
PFS 837. Communication Strategies for Remote and Hybrid Teams. 3 Credits.
This course explores the communication challenges and opportunities presented by remote work in geographically dispersed organizations. Course content and activities will explore how leaders, managers and front-line staff can utilize communication-based relationship-building skills, as well as project planning, meeting facilitation and technological tools to build productive working relationships, stronger teams and optimal productivity across multiple workplace structures, cultures, project teams, time zones and geographies. Participants will gain valuable insights about the human needs embedded in virtual work as well as gain practical skills needed for leading successfully in a virtual work environment.
PFS 839. Conflict Dynamics in Organizations. 3 Credits.
This course explores the multiple sources and levels of conflict in organizations. Course content will help participants recognize and address the historical and cultural roots of conflict in organizations. Course activities will help develop the individual insights and communication skills necessary to initiate meaningful change to conflict management processes within teams and organizations, with the goal of facilitating more equitable, fair and trusting work relationships, communication flows, and positive outcomes for all. This course will be especially helpful for those looking to advance into management and leadership positions.
PFS 850. Interview-Based Research in Organizations. 3 Credits.
The course provides hands-on practice designing an interview or focus-group based research project. Activities build skills related to project design, managing sponsor and stakeholder pressures, interview questions crafting, managing interview dynamics, ensuring confidentiality and research ethics, conducting data analysis, crafting findings, report writing, delivering a final presentation to stakeholders. Major course activity involves working with sample data and crafting a future research proposal for an organization selected by the participant.
PFS 856. Technical Writing. 3 Credits.
Technical writing is crucial for performance effectiveness at the personal and organizational level. This course serves as a professional technical writing course focused on developing and refining managerial-level business writing and presentation skills. Students will learn the essentials of style, grammar, and diction; and how to craft clear and concise written communications for workplace success: emails, memos, reports, training documents, and presentations. Students will leave this course with the ability to effectively convey messages to a wide range of stakeholders using the optimal method and tone.
PFS 860. Exploring Communication Theory. 3 Credits.
This course involves exploring the theories that provide deeper insight into underlying individual, group, organizational and societal level factors influencing communication patterns, practices and policies in organizations. This course provides a solid understanding of the unique value of the communication studies lens for examining common workplace communication issues at the individual, team and organizational levels. Participants will leave the course with a toolkit of organizational communication concepts and theories for better understanding "what's really going on here," providing a powerful set of insights for identifying, unpacking and addressing common issues related to coworker relationships and conflict, managerial and leadership communication, diversity and inclusion, and workplace culture, to name just a few.
PFS 875. Special Topics in Organizational Communication. 3 Credits.
The specific topic of this course may vary from semester to semester; course will explore a variety of current issues related to organizational culture and communication, with a focus on translating research into practice within organizational roles.
PFS 895. Independent Study in Organizational Communication. 1-3 Credits.
This course is reserved for students working independently with faculty supervision to study a topic of interest. The specific topic and related readings, assignments and meeting schedule will be worked out between the faculty member and individual student(s) and pre-approved by the faculty member leading the independent study. A permission code is required to register for PFS 895 course hours.
PFS 897. Comprehensive Exam Prep. 1-3 Credits.
A culminating course to prepare students for their Organizational Communication Masters comprehensive exam. Students will work with faculty to prepare materials for the comprehensive exams upon completion of all course work. Prerequisite: Minimum 20 credit hours completed in program.
PFS 898. Capstone Project in Organizational Communication. 1-3 Credits.
This course is reserved for students working on the capstone project required to complete the degree in organizational communication. The specific topic, research method, organizational sponsor, and meeting schedule will be worked out between the supervising faculty member and individual student(s). The capstone project must be pre-approved by the faculty member supervising the capstone project. Prerequisite: Consent of department or instructor.
Courses
PM-C 811. Aligning Project and Organizational Objectives. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to ensure that project managers can effectively synchronize project goals with the broader strategic objectives of the organization. This involves a deep understanding of the organization's vision, mission, and strategic goals, and the ability to translate these into specific project objectives. Key topics covered include strategic analysis, goal-setting, communication strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Mastery of this competency allows project managers to ensure that every project undertaken advances the organization's agenda, supports its strategic direction, and delivers value. It equips them with the skills to communicate project objectives and progress to stakeholders clearly and persuasively, ensuring that decision-making is informed and aligned with organizational goals. Ultimately, this competency is about creating harmony between project execution and organizational strategy, ensuring that both are moving in tandem towards shared success.
PM-C 812. Project Initiation. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to equip project managers with the essential skills and knowledge needed to effectively launch new projects. This includes the ability to clearly articulate the purpose and business value of a project, which forms the foundation for initiating and chartering the project. Project managers will learn to develop a comprehensive business case, outlining the potential benefits, costs, and risks associated with a project, as well as a benefit management plan to ensure the project's outcomes align with business objectives. Additionally, this competency covers the identification of necessary resources and stakeholders, ensuring that all relevant parties are engaged and informed from the outset. Finally, project managers will gain the expertise to write a detailed project charter, which serves as a formal document that authorizes the project and provides a roadmap for project delivery. Mastery of these elements ensures that projects are started with a clear direction and a strong alignment with organizational goals, setting the stage for successful project management.
PM-C 813. Project Methodologies. 1 Credits.
This competency unit delves into the selection, application, and adaptation of project management methodologies, particularly the waterfall model, to meet specific project deliverables. It underscores the strategic importance of choosing the right methodology to align with a project's unique attributes and desired outcomes. Key topics include the principles of the waterfall methodology, its structured sequential approach, and its suitability for projects with clear objectives and stable requirements. This unit provides project and program managers with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively select and apply the waterfall methodology, adapt it as necessary to cater to project demands, and design comprehensive training for team members to ensure a thorough understanding of the chosen methodology's impact on project structure and governance. It equips professionals with the ability to discern when the waterfall methodology is the most appropriate and how to implement it to enhance project success.
PM-C 814. Project Scope Creation. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to impart project managers with the essential knowledge and skills necessary to effectively define and organize the total scope of a project. This includes the ability to break down a project scope into discrete tasks, create a detailed Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), and define clear milestones. Mastery of this competency ensures that project managers can verify the completeness of the WBS, ensuring that it encompasses the entire scope of the project. The unit emphasizes the importance of clarity, foresight, and precision in planning, which are crucial for maintaining alignment and focus within project teams and with stakeholders.
PM-C 815. Project Schedule Development. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and practical application of creating effective project timelines that align with project goals and stakeholder expectations. This unit delves into the intricacies of scheduling, from establishing a comprehensive project schedule based on identified tasks and dependencies to evaluating the optimal sequence of project tasks to enhance project value. It covers the critical skill of accurately appraising task durations to ensure realistic timeframes are set. Participants will learn to construct a robust project schedule, integrating all aspects of project planning. Additionally, this unit addresses the proactive identification of potential risks to the schedule, enabling project managers to anticipate and communicate the implications of these risks effectively. Mastery of this competency ensures that project managers can maintain a dynamic and responsive project schedule, adapting to changes and challenges to deliver successful project outcomes.
PM-C 816. Project Budget Development. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and practical application of creating a comprehensive project budget. This includes the ability to establish a budget aligned with project requirements, identify the resources necessary for each task, and accurately determine the costs associated with these tasks. Mastery of this competency enables a project manager to develop a detailed cash flow projection and budget plan as well as contingency fund plan, ensuring financial resources are effectively allocated throughout the project's lifecycle. Equipped with these skills, project managers can ensure that financial planning contributes to the overall success and sustainability of the project, fostering trust and credibility among stakeholders.
PM-C 817. Utilizing Project Management Application(s). 1 Credits.
This competency unit provides project managers with essential knowledge and proficient skills necessary to navigate project management tools effectively, select the most suitable applications based on project demands and methodologies, construct detailed project plans with organizational tools, and oversee project timelines and deliverables. This unit aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of project management through the adept use of technology, ensuring that project managers can adapt to various project scenarios and maintain optimal productivity.
PM-C 818. Financial Literacy. 1 Credits.
This competency unit introduces foundational financial analysis tools that can support informed decision-making in project management. It covers the adept use of financial information to guide project financial decisions, the evaluation of a project's financial health through organizational financial documents such as income statements, balance sheets, and annual reports, and the application of key financial metrics including Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Net Present Value (NPV), Return on Investment (ROI), and break-even analysis. This unit equips project managers with the analytical skills necessary to assess financial data critically, recommend actions based on financial insights, and ensure the financial viability and success of projects. Mastery of this competency enables managers to maintain fiscal responsibility while fostering sustainable growth and stakeholder value within the organization.
PM-C 819. Project Success Measures. 1 Credits.
This competency unit covers the concepts and application of frameworks for project success that emphasizes the importance of ensuring value delivery and maintaining alignment with project goals and stakeholder expectations. This unit equips project managers with the fundamental knowledge and mastery skills required to develop project success metrics (quantitatively and qualitatively) to ensure value delivery, develop Key Performance Indicators based on anticipated value of project delivery, and design measurement criteria for Key Performance Indicators, including leading and lagging indicators.
PM-C 821. Business Writing. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and practices of effective written communication within a business context, highlighting the significance of conveying messages with precision, clarity, and brevity. Core topics include the structuring of information, the application of an appropriate tone and style, and the adaptation of content to suit diverse audiences ranging from project team members to executives. This unit empowers professionals with the essential skills to craft accurate and organized written documents, compose compelling project status updates, and tailor communication to various stakeholders. Mastery in Business Writing enables individuals to enhance collaboration, support decision-making processes, and uphold the professional image of the organization through proficient written expression.
PM-C 822. Information Synthesis. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and application of methodologies for the integration and interpretation of information from diverse sources. Information Synthesis equips learners with the ability to synthesize and present information from multiple sources effectively, both in written and verbal forms. Constructing a cohesive and comprehensive understanding of material is a critical skill project managers can leverage to support decision-making and strategy development within project teams and stakeholder interactions. In practice, this involves gathering data from diverse sources, integrating this information, and developing comprehensive reports and presentations. This competency is crucial for clear communication and informed decision-making in professional settings.
PM-C 823. Project Methodologies-Advanced. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to enhance the proficiency of project managers in selecting, applying, and adapting cutting-edge project management methodologies to meet specific project deliverables. This unit delves into the strategic application of agile methodologies, tailored to align with the unique attributes and requirements of a project. It empowers project managers with the skills to not only apply agile principles effectively but also to adapt these methodologies to optimize project outcomes. Furthermore, it encompasses the development of comprehensive training programs for team members, ensuring a thorough understanding of the selected project methodology and its impact on project structure and governance. This competency unit is pivotal for project managers aiming to drive project success through advanced, flexible, and responsive project management techniques.
PM-C 824. Team Development. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to enhance the capabilities of project managers in building and nurturing effective teams. It focuses on the formation of teams with a diverse mix of styles, perspectives, and experiences, ensuring a well-rounded approach to project execution. This unit delves into the organization of team members to streamline project progression and emphasizes the importance of leveraging individual strengths to achieve collective goals. It also highlights the significance of supporting team members' growth and development as a cornerstone for project success. Through this competency, project managers will gain the essential skills to foster a collaborative environment, encourage continuous learning and improvement, and drive their teams towards excellence in achieving project objectives. Team development is not just about managing people but inspiring and leading them to innovate, collaborate, and succeed together.
PM-C 825. Conflict Management. 1 Credits.
This competency is a critical skill set that enables project managers to navigate and resolve disputes effectively, drawing on conflict resolution frameworks and strategies to maintain harmony and foster collaboration, ensuring project success and team cohesion. Project managers who are proficient in communication, empathy, problem-solving, composure, and mediation are equipped to identify and de-escalate conflicts swiftly, addressing underlying issues impartially. They are adept at facilitating inclusive discussions, encouraging all parties to share their perspectives, and steering them towards amicable solutions. Post-conflict, they focus on preserving positive relationships and have the discernment to involve higher authorities when necessary. Additionally, they possess the analytical ability to employ project metrics for early conflict identification, evaluate team dynamics to pinpoint conflict causes, and manage both constructive and destructive conflicts, distinguishing between them to leverage or mitigate as needed. This competency is not just about resolving conflicts but transforming them into opportunities for growth and innovation.
PM-C 826. Interpersonal Skills. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to enhance a learner’s ability to effectively interact, communicate, and collaborate with individuals in the workplace. This unit underscores the significance of understanding and respecting varied practices, norms, and expectations within project teams and stakeholder groups. Key topics include workplace communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and inclusivity. Participants will gain essential knowledge and skills to manage and engage with various individuals, adapt leadership styles to accommodate different workplace contexts, recognize and appropriately respond to the emotions of themselves and others, and demonstrate sensitivity and open-mindedness towards a range of values, beliefs, and perspectives. This competency enables professionals to foster a collaborative and respectful environment that is conducive to achieving project goals and building strong, positive relationships with all team members and stakeholders.
PM-C 827. Personnel Management. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to enhance project managers' capabilities in fostering the growth and development of their team members. This unit delves into the strategic cultivation of team skills relevant to project objectives, ensuring that each member's professional trajectory aligns with the project's needs and their personal aspirations. It encompasses the art of delivering and receiving constructive feedback, a critical component for continuous professional and personal enhancement. Furthermore, it involves guiding team members in setting realistic and relevant goals, providing steadfast support in the execution of project delivery plans, and offering mentorship in career progression. This comprehensive approach to personnel management not only augments the proficiency and satisfaction of individual team members but also contributes significantly to the project's overall success and the creation of a cohesive and collaborative work environment.
PM-C 828. Stakeholder Engagement. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to empower project managers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to effectively engage with stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. This unit emphasizes the importance of strategic communication, tailored to the unique needs and perspectives of each stakeholder group, ensuring that all parties are aligned with the project goals. It covers the art of balancing stakeholder needs with project objectives, adapting engagement strategies to suit various stakeholder roles, and maintaining a proactive communication plan that keeps stakeholders informed and involved. This ensures that project managers will be able to foster a collaborative environment, preemptively address concerns, and sustain positive stakeholder relationships, thereby contributing to the successful delivery of the project.
PM-C 829. Continuous Improvement. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and practical application of techniques for enhancing project efficiency and effectiveness. It underscores the significance of systematic evaluation and refinement of project processes to foster superior performance and results. Core topics include process assessment, performance optimization, and change management. This unit arms project managers with the essential knowledge and advanced skills necessary to scrutinize and enhance processes, apply proven performance improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma, propose and assess alternative strategies for project enhancement, and devise and execute detailed implementation plans. By mastering this competency, professionals will be equipped to drive continuous improvement, ensuring projects not only meet but exceed stakeholder expectations, while fostering an environment of perpetual advancement and innovation.
PM-C 831. Problem Identification. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to empower project managers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to detect and define problems accurately within a project's lifecycle. This unit delves into the methodologies for dissecting problems, recognizing opportunities, and conducting thorough root cause analyses to uncover the fundamental reasons behind adverse events. It encompasses the evaluation of issues using suitable tools, the assessment of information for accuracy and relevance, and the identification of potential obstacles that could impede project success. By mastering this competency, project managers will be adept at articulating problems in terms of their root causes, ensuring a clear understanding and strategic approach to problem-solving. This competency is crucial for maintaining project integrity, ensuring timely delivery, and upholding the overall quality of the project outcomes.
PM-C 832. Problem-Solving. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to empower project managers with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively address and resolve project-related issues. This unit delves into the methodologies of problem identification, leveraging a blend of analytical thinking and creativity to evaluate information. It emphasizes the importance of logical reasoning to determine and evaluate potential solutions, ensuring alignment with project objectives. Participants will learn to identify and navigate obstacles, ensuring the successful implementation of solutions. This unit also focuses on the ability to discern and execute logical next steps, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the project landscape. By mastering these competencies, project managers will be equipped to maintain project momentum and achieve desired outcomes, even in the face of complex challenges.
PM-C 833. Project Quality Management. 1 Credits.
This competency unit equips project managers with the fundamental knowledge and mastery skills required to construct a quality plan for a project, assess change requests to assure continued project viability, and evaluate project outcomes. Topics include quality planning, quality assurance, quality control, and quality improvement. Participants will learn to maintain positive relationships with all parties after the resolution of a quality issue and recognize when to involve higher authorities in quality management decisions. This ensures that the project outcomes are of high quality and meet the expectations of all stakeholders.
PM-C 834. Adaptability. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to enhance the agility and flexibility of project and program managers in the face of evolving project landscapes. This unit delves into the methodologies and strategic approaches for adapting to change, underscoring the significance of agile project management in achieving project objectives amidst uncertainty. Core topics include the assessment of changing project requirements, the evaluation of impacts on project timelines and budgets, and the development of responsive project management plans. Participants will gain proficiency in swiftly adjusting plans, techniques, or approaches, articulating the rationale for changes to stakeholders, and ensuring that team members are promptly informed and aligned with the new direction. This competency unit empowers managers to not only respond to change but to anticipate and lead through it, maintaining project momentum and stakeholder confidence.
PM-C 835. Ingenuity. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to foster innovative thinking and creative problem-solving in project management. This unit delves into the methodologies and practical applications of ingenuity, highlighting the significance of pioneering new paths and solutions within project teams and for stakeholders. Core topics include innovative thinking, creative problem-solving tools, solution design, and unconventional project management techniques. This unit equips project managers with the essential knowledge and advanced skills necessary to generate novel solutions to complex project challenges, brainstorm effectively using diverse problem-solving tools, and develop or integrate cutting-edge solutions, designs, or plans tailored to meet specific client needs within a project's scope. Additionally, it prepares managers to propose and implement nontraditional methods to ensure project success, fostering an environment where innovation thrives.
PM-C 836. Risk Identification and Evaluation. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to empower project managers with the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively identify, assess, and prioritize project risks. This unit delves into the methodologies and tools for risk identification, including risk analysis and categorization of risks. By mastering this competency, project managers will be equipped to anticipate risks that might impact the project. This competency is crucial for fostering a culture of risk awareness and responsiveness and underscores the significance of proactive planning and collaboration among project teams and stakeholders to ensure project resilience and success.
PM-C 837. Risk Mitigation and Management. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and practical application of strategies to preemptively address and manage potential risks within project environments. This competency unit arms project managers with the essential knowledge and advanced skills necessary to develop comprehensive mitigation plans tailored to each identified risk and execute risk monitoring protocols. It also equips them to implement mitigation strategies effectively as required, recognize early warning signs, and establish trigger events to manage project risks efficiently. Maintaining a vigilant stance on risk management enables project managers to minimize negative impacts and uphold project integrity, ensuring continuity and stakeholder confidence.
PM-C 838. Project Control. 1 Credits.
This competency unit focuses on methods to oversee and manage the financial and operational aspects of a project, ensuring that it adheres to the scope, budget, and timeline, and that it aligns with quality standards and organizational goals. This competency unit equips project and program managers with the fundamental knowledge and mastery skills to make the necessary project changes to help ensure timely project completion, maintaining alignment with project goals and stakeholder expectations. Topics include measuring identified control metrics, monitoring and communicating with stakeholders, making and recording necessary changes in the project plan, assessing the cost impact of changes on a project, and developing and utilizing project monitoring dashboards.
PM-C 839. Project Monitoring. 1 Credits.
This competency unit focuses on methods to track, review, and regulate the progress and performance of a project; to ensure that project objectives are met within the set timelines and budget. This competency unit teaches project and program managers ways to monitor project progress along multiple value dimensions, enabling them to maintain alignment with project goals and stakeholder expectations. Topics include establishing a project control matrix, applying Earned Value Management (EVM) techniques/indicators (SPI, CPI, EV, etc.), and determining frequency of measurement.
PM-C 841. Project Closure. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to ensure project managers possess the essential knowledge and skills to effectively conclude projects. This includes the development of a comprehensive project closure plan, adhering to industry best practices and procedures. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the completion or necessary termination of a project, and the methodical delivery of project outcomes to clients. Key components of this competency involve documenting all project-related information, effectively communicating closure details to stakeholders, and strategically planning the redistribution of project team members. Additionally, it focuses on the documentation and celebration of project successes, the critical reflection and documentation of lessons learned, and the adept use of appropriate project closure tools and techniques. This competency ensures that project managers maintain a structured and positive conclusion to projects, fostering a sense of accomplishment and learning for future endeavors.
PM-C 842. Supply Chain Management. 1 Credits.
This competency unit provides project managers with essential knowledge and proficient skills necessary to efficiently manage the supply chain for external and non-personnel resources in project settings. This competency involves formulating resource needs, negotiating contracts, procuring materials, and organizing resources to ensure smooth project progression, while adeptly managing shifting resource demands throughout the project lifecycle. Mastery in this area is essential for maintaining project timelines and budget constraints.
PM-C 843. Prioritization. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and application of prioritization frameworks that underscore the significance of effective time management and resource allocation within project teams and stakeholders. Learners will gain the ability to identify and manage the most important and urgent tasks within a project, adjusting priorities as needed. In practice, this involves prioritizing project tasks, assigning resources based on task priority, and efficiently managing tasks according to their urgency and importance. This competency is crucial for ensuring project success and optimal resource utilization.
PM-C 844. Project Governance. 1 Credits.
This competency unit encompasses the principles and implementation of effective project governance frameworks, underscoring the significance of clear role delineation and accountability within project teams and in relation to stakeholders. Key topics include the articulation of a structured hierarchy of roles and responsibilities, the strategic design of project structures and governance mechanisms to complement the chosen project methodology, and the ongoing evaluation and refinement of these structures to ensure their effectiveness. This competency unit provides project managers with the essential knowledge and advanced skills necessary to establish and maintain a robust governance framework that supports project objectives, enables efficient decision-making, and facilitates successful project delivery while remaining adaptable to project dynamics and stakeholder needs.
PM-C 845. Stewardship. 1 Credits.
This competency unit is designed to integrate the principles of sustainable and ethical practices into project management. It emphasizes the importance of identifying areas impacting sustainable and ethical practices for projects and aligning project actions with standards of professional conduct. This competency enables project managers to create, implement, and routinely review plans that address sustainable and ethical practices, ensuring that projects adhere to these standards throughout the project life cycle. Through this unit, project managers will acquire the skills necessary to develop a plan that not only achieves immediate project objectives but also contributes positively to the organization's long-term sustainability and ethical standing.
PM-C 899. Project Value Delivery. 1 Credits.
This competency unit emphasizes the importance of ensuring that a project delivers intended value and benefits to customers, organizations, and other stakeholders. Learners will develop and apply strategies for tracking and communicating the status and trend of various Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and project deliverables, as well as evaluating the success of KPIs in delivering anticipated value. Successful project value delivery ensures that the project outcomes align with the project plan and meet the expectations of all stakeholders.
Courses
PMGT 101. Project Management Basics: Start Strong. 3 Credits.
This introductory course offers a broad overview of project management, designed for students without a background in project management. It covers the basic concepts and practices involved in managing projects effectively. Students will explore the project life cycle, learn how to define project goals, and understand the importance of teamwork and communication. The course includes interactive lectures, group discussions, and projects to help students grasp the essentials of project management in a fun and engaging way. No prior knowledge or experience is required.
PMGT 210. Exploring Careers in Project Management. 3 Credits.
This course provides students with a comprehensive overview of various career opportunities within the project management field. It covers industry-specific roles, essential skills, and competencies and offers strategies for career planning and development. Through guest speakers and real-world case studies, students gain practical insights and develop personalized career plans that align with their interests and strengths. This course is ideal for those considering a career in project management and seeking to understand the diverse paths available in this dynamic field.
PMGT 305. Foundations of Project Management. 3 Credits.
This course offers students an opportunity to learn how to approach project management (PM) and understand PM essential concepts from both a theoretical and applied perspective. Students will learn to identify the elements of the PM life cycle, understand PM processes, comprehend and become familiar with basic PM tools and techniques, utilize techniques for optimizing project results, manage stakeholder communications, understand the principles of team leadership, and identify the career paths in the PM profession.
PMGT 310. Project Communications. 3 Credits.
This course offers students the opportunity to develop comprehensive technical communications and stakeholder-engagement knowledge and skills. Students will master theoretical and applied skills for properly communicating with project stakeholders and team members.
PMGT 315. Project Scheduling and Control. 3 Credits.
This course explores project scheduling, monitoring, and controlling techniques used by successful project managers. Concepts covered in this course include arrow, PERT, precedence, and linear scheduling methods; resource leveling; time-cost analysis; and time-scaled diagrams. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305.
PMGT 320. Introduction to Microsoft Project. 3 Credits.
A schedule helps a project manager plan and execute project activities. Microsoft Project is a powerful tool that can help with the planning of project schedules. This course will provide students with practice creating and managing schedules in Microsoft Project. Students will utilize Microsoft Project to create project plans, explore task dependencies, and generate reports.
PMGT 325. Effective Project Team Leadership. 3 Credits.
This course will introduce students to the fundamental relationship management, communications, and leadership skills necessary to effectively lead project teams. Students will be given a dynamic, applied, and comprehensive view of what project leadership is like in contemporary organizational life. Readings, case studies, and videos integrate best current knowledge with established scholarly research in a way that makes the topic of leadership come alive. The course examines such topics as: Personal vs. Positional Power; Influence vs. Authority; Delegation; Motivating, Prioritizing, and Coaching Teams; Stakeholder Communication; and Conflict Resolution.
PMGT 330. Organizational Strategy and Project Initiation. 3 Credits.
This course will explore the linkages between the implementation of projects and overall organizational success. Students will learn to utilize organizational strategy to guide project selection and initiation to achieve value for the organization. In addition, various tools for evaluating and selecting projects will be explored. Students will also evaluate the steps needed to properly initiate a project. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305.
PMGT 335. Project Stakeholder Engagement. 3 Credits.
This course introduces the rationales, processes, and general principles of stakeholder engagement for success in projects. Students will examine and analyze the wide range of methods and tools available to engage with the stakeholders on a project. In addition, the key skills and competencies needed to effectively engage with stakeholders will be explored. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305.
PMGT 405. Organizational and Project Risk Management. 3 Credits.
This is an introductory course to teach students how to identify, analyze, plan, and manage project-related risks. Students will gain an understanding of the importance and benefit of risk management for projects. Qualitative and quantitative risk management techniques will be presented to students in this course. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305.
PMGT 410. Managing Project Success. 3 Credits.
Students in this course will learn the importance and process of identifying the root cause of the problem to be addressed by a project. Projects frequently fail because the project team failed to properly identify the root cause of the problem. Students will also explore the various types and components of project success with a focus on managing project tradeoffs that must be made. Lastly, students will analyze the many situations where project success is achieved through early termination the project. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305 and completion of at least 24 credit hours of PMGT courses.
PMGT 415. Project Procurement and Supply Chain Management. 3 Credits.
This course provides students with an overview of procurement, outsourcing, and supply chain management. The history of procurement and supply chain management will be discussed. The most recent methodologies will then be examined, along with the tools and techniques that are needed to manage procurement and the supply chain in an effective way. Prerequisite: PMGT 305.
PMGT 420. Emerging Trends in Project Management. 3 Credits.
This course explores emerging trends in project management expected to impact project management methodologies and tools over the next one to two decades. The challenges associated with implementing these trends in organizations will be examined. In addition, the skills project managers will need to develop to successfully implement these emerging trends will also be explored. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305.
PMGT 425. Global Project Management. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to the management challenges in conducting projects across borders and cultures. The critical success factors for managing projects across national boundaries are discussed. In addition, consideration of vendor and outsourcing management, remote stakeholder management, and effectively addressing cross-cultural, social, and political issues are examined. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in PMGT 305.
PMGT 430. Managing Virtual Project Teams. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to provide an overview of key individual, group, and organizational issues involved in managing virtual project teams. Concepts discussed include setting team members up for virtual success, the additional challenges of effective virtual teams, conducting virtual team meetings, and leading teams across cultures. Prerequisite: PMGT 305 and PMGT 325.
PMGT 435. Lean Six Sigma Fundamentals. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to the foundational principles and practices of Lean Six Sigma, a methodology focused on improving processes, reducing waste, and enhancing organizational performance. The course emphasizes practical application over statistical depth, making it accessible to students with limited quantitative backgrounds. Students will explore the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework and learn to apply key tools such as process mapping, cause-and-effect analysis, root cause identification, and basic capability assessments. The course also covers Lean concepts including value stream mapping, standardized work, workplace organization (5S), and visual management. Through case studies and hands-on exercises, students will gain the skills to contribute to improvement initiatives in a variety of professional settings. Prerequisite: Prior completion (preferred) or concurrent enrollment in either PMGT 305 or OMGT 300.
PMGT 510. Advanced Agile Approaches to Project Management. 3 Credits.
Students will move beyond a basic understanding of agile project management by exploring various agile development philosophies and methodologies and how they can be applied to manage current projects. Students will learn how to utilize Scrum and several additional agile frameworks. They will also develop an understanding of when to use agile methodologies (and when not to) and how to tailor agile practices for maximum project success. Prerequisite: PMGT 305.
PMGT 520. Advanced Microsoft Project. 3 Credits.
Students will learn how they can utilize Microsoft Project beyond basic project scheduling. Students will utilize Microsoft Project to level project resources and capture both cost and schedule progress. Students will also learn to set up a project with a calendar, manage baselines, create custom fields and columns, create custom reports, and understand manual vs. automatic scheduling. Prerequisite: PMGT 315 and PMGT 320.
PMGT 550. Project Management Internship. 3 Credits.
The student completes an internship in industry in project management under the supervision of a manager to learn practical aspects of project management. Students interested in pursuing such an internship option are fully responsible for finding an internship opportunity in an organization. Students will prepare a proposal on their activities in an organization with approval from the organization supervisor and submit it to the course instructor for authorization at least two weeks before starting an internship. The approval form cannot be submitted after beginning an internship. At a minimum, the final report and presentation must be provided, and a satisfactory report from the supervisor will be needed for credits. The course will be available as a 5-week (minimum 8 hours per week) industry experience for each credit. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. Prerequisite: Completion of 12 credits of Project Management (PMGT) courses or instructor approval.
The capstone serves as a culminating experience for the project management courses in this curriculum. Students will demonstrate what they have learned throughout the project management program by applying leadership, critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity skills to real-world project situations. Subjects covered include project selection and initiation, scheduling and work breakdown structures, cost control and earned value management (EVM), risk management, monitoring and controlling, and project closure. Prerequisite: Completion of at least 33 credit hours of PMGT courses.
PMGT 610. CAPM Certification Test Preparation. 1 Credits.
The University of Kansas, as an Authorized Training Partner (ATP) of the Project Management Institute (PMI), offers a detailed Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® Certification Test Preparation course. This PMI-developed training course is a thorough review of the CAPM exam content and helps students develop effective test-taking strategies. The course includes detailed lectures, hands-on exercises, and practice exams.
PMGT 615. PMP Certification Test Preparation. 2 Credits.
The University of Kansas, as an Authorized Training Partner (ATP) of the Project Management Institute (PMI), offers a PMI-developed training course for experienced project managers who are preparing to take the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification exam. The course covers all aspects of the PMP exam, including the five process groups, ten knowledge areas, and the latest updates to the PMBOK® Guide. Participants will engage in interactive lectures, group discussions, and practice exams to ensure they are fully prepared for the exam.
PMGT 800. Special Topics: _____. 3 Credits.
PMGT 808. Lean Six Sigma. 3 Credits.
This course is an introduction to the principles of implementing the Lean Six Sigma philosophy and methodology. Lean Six Sigma is a total enterprise philosophy. Topics follow the DMAIC process and include tools and methods such as process flow diagrams, cause and effect diagrams, failure mode and effects analysis, capability studies, and design of experiments. The use of various concepts to reduce waste and improve system performance such as process flow, standardized work, value streams, workplace organization, and visual controls are covered. Course Objectives: -Understand and apply the Six Sigma DMAIC model for improvement activities. -Utilize Six Sigma knowledge and skills to lead successful improvement projects that deliver meaningful results. -Facilitate the use of improvement tools and techniques in improvement projects. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804.
PMGT 811. Project Contracts and Procurement. 3 Credits.
An advanced study of the project procurement and contract administration bodies of knowledge and their applications. The project procurement's place in a supply chain life cycle is covered from needs identification to contract closeout with emphasis on requirements definition, vendor selection, contract negotiation and award, service delivery, and performance monitoring. Course Objectives: -Knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and benefits of the project procurement life cycle. -Knowledge and application of procurement planning and contract administration best practices, processes, and tools. -Practical application of the project management body of knowledge specific to project procurement management. -Practical application of the supply chain and commercial business body of knowledge specific to contract award, execution, and closeout. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804.
PMGT 816. Project Management Fundamentals I. 3 Credits.
Managerial concepts and skills development in relation to the project-oriented business environment, project lifecycle, integrated project management, project selection, and project initiation. Focus is on management of a single project. Prerequisite: Project Management plan code or department consent.
PMGT 817. Project Management Fundamentals II. 3 Credits.
Planning concepts and skills development in relation to developing needed information on project scope, time, cost, and risk, and making direct use of such information to develop key documentation such as the project schedule and budget. Examples of specific topics considered include project work content and change, documentation, and resource requirements. Planning content is complementary to that of PMGT 818. Prerequisite: PMGT 816.
PMGT 818. Project Management Fundamentals III. 3 Credits.
Concepts and skills development in relation to planning for management of communications, human resource aspects of project team formation and development, procurement, and quality. Examples of specific topics considered include information handling, reporting, and stakeholder relationships. Planning content is complementary to that of PMGT 817. Prerequisite: PMGT 816.
PMGT 819. Project Management Fundamentals IV. 3 Credits.
Concepts and skills development in relation to project execution, including processes monitoring and controlling, and project closure. Examples of specific topics considered include handling change requests, procurement, teamwork and team development, and cost management. Course content represents systematic treatment of all aspects of project management beyond planning-but is, in project execution and closing phrases. Prerequisite: PMGT 816.
PMGT 820. Management of New Product Development Projects. 3 Credits.
This course discusses how to properly manage new product development processes using project management tools and techniques. New products are not projects until they are analyzed, planned, scheduled, budgeted, managed, and controlled by managers. It is not typically technical process issues that result in failed new product introductions, but rather a failure in their management and marketing. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804.
PMGT 821. Management of Consulting Projects. 3 Credits.
Application area course exposing students to specialized knowledge, standard, and regulations involved in managing consulting projects. Attention is directed to unique characteristics of consulting project environments, major project phases-from selection to closing-and related management processes. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP Certified.
PMGT 823. Risk Management for Project Managers. 3 Credits.
PMGT 824. Project Cost Estimation, Analysis, and Control. 3 Credits.
PMGT 825. Portfolio Analysis and Program Management. 3 Credits.
Review practices and processes to achieve organizational objectives by utilizing portfolio analysis and program management. Project evaluation and selection, funding, and performance tracking processes will be examined as well as the facilitation of these efforts across multi-tiered organizations. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP Certified.
PMGT 827. Project Team Management and Development. 3 Credits.
Concepts and methods of team and team member development, achieving higher-performance teams while satisfying organizational expectations. Specific topics include management concepts and practices, team dynamics, and interpersonal skills in negotiation and conflict resolution. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP Certified.
PMGT 828. Management of Global Projects. 3 Credits.
Survey of management challenges in conducting international projects, emphasizing cross-culture issues. Differences across world regions and selected key countries in relation to communication and interpersonal norms, business conventions, and legal systems will receive particular attention. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP Certified.
PMGT 829. Management of Distributed Project Teams. 3 Credits.
PMGT 830. Case Studies in Project Management. 1-3 Credits.
Reinforcement and demonstration of developing project management skills through case analysis and discussion. Goal is integration of learning across all core courses, and also drawing on content from general management, applications area, and advanced project management elective courses taken. Emphasis is on integrated project management. Prerequisite: Must have completed 21 PMGT credit hours and have completed PMGT 816, PMGT 817, PMGT 818 and have program plan Master of Engineering in Project Management and have instructor consent.
PMGT 835. Project Management Capstone. 1-3 Credits.
The capstone serves as a culminating experience for this degree. Students will develop an applied workforce project or benefit to in the student's place of employment for full time students. The students will document their project in a written report and present their project during the final oral examination to the Project Management facility and student's employer or representative if practical. This course can be taken up to three times for a maximum of three credits. Prerequisite: Must have completed 21 PMGT credit hours and have completed PMGT 816, PMGT 817, and PMGT 818 and must be enrolled in the Master of Science in Project Management and have instructor consent.
PMGT 840. Developing as a Project Leader. 3 Credits.
Leadership is a critically important, yet elusive concept. There are more than 200 definitions of leadership in the scholarly literature today, reflecting a growing interest in understanding the topic. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive examination of the key attributes of effective leadership in a project management context. The drivers of effective leadership - including emotional intelligence, change adaptability, conflict management, communication, trust, and resilience - will be studied. Students will explore their own natural leadership attributes and learn to develop a compelling, authentic style that aligns with their personalities, experiences, and beliefs. This course examines several theories of leadership, from the original conception of "trait" theory to more contemporary frameworks involving distributive, servant, and ethical leadership. It also enriches student understanding of positional vs. personal power and influence vs. authority. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP certified.
PMGT 842. Project Management in an Agile Environment. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles, processes, and practices for managing projects in an agile development environment. Students will learn the basic tenants of the Agile Manifesto and how to apply it to real-world projects. The strengths and weaknesses of an Agile approach to project management vs. a traditional waterfall approach will be explored, emphasizing how to leverage or mitigate the strengths and weaknesses to manage various types of projects. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP Certified.
PMGT 843. Emerging Digital Tools for Project Managers. 3 Credits.
This course comprehensively explores the latest digital technologies that are transforming project management activities. Students will gain insights into a variety of digital tools, including project management software, collaboration platforms, data analytics, and artificial intelligence applications. The course emphasizes the practical application of these tools to enhance project delivery, optimize resource management, and improve decision-making processes. Through case studies, live demonstrations, and tool-selection activities, learners will develop the skills needed to evaluate, integrate, and govern digital solutions across an array of organizational settings. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to explore freely available software through academic partnership programs with organizations that offer suites of project management applications.
PMGT 844. Project Financials and Budgeting. 3 Credits.
This course equips students with the financial literacy and budgeting skills essential for effective project management. Students will learn to interpret and apply organizational financial data to assess project health, make informed financial decisions, and develop comprehensive project budgets. Emphasis is placed on understanding key financial documents, applying financial metrics such as IRR, NPV, ROI, and break-even analysis, and constructing detailed budgets that account for resources, costs, and contingencies. The course prepares students to confidently navigate financial aspects of project planning and execution within diverse organizational contexts. Prerequisite: PMGT 816 or PFS 804 or PMP certified.
PMGT 860. Project Management Independent Study. 1-4 Credits.
Graduate-level independent study of problems or subjects of immediate interest to a student or faculty member. Project topic to be agreed upon in advance with supervising faculty member. May be repeated for credit up to a maximum of four hours in the degree program. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.