Link to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Website here: http://www.clas.uconn.edu/
Links to descriptions of academic departments and programs:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences has 23 departments and offers the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. The College has departments of Air Force studies, anthropology, chemistry, communication sciences, ecology and evolutionary biology, economics, English, geography, geology and geophysics, history, journalism, linguistics, marine sciences, mathematics, military science, molecular and cell biology, modern and classical language, philosophy, physics, physiology and neurobiology, political science, psychology, sociology, and statistics. Most departments offer at least one major course of study. Other majors include: art history in cooperation with the School of Fine Arts, environmental science, mathematics combined with statistics, linguistics combined with philosophy, Latin American language and area studies, Puerto Rican and Latino Studies, Slavic and East European language and area studies, urban studies, and women's studies.
The College prepares students for, and aids them in applying to, schools of law, dental medicine, and medicine.
For admission, the college requires 16 high school units including:
The University Senate has adopted General Education Requirements in a variety of curricular areas which must be satisfied as part of every bachelor's degree program. These requirements are listed in the Appendix of this Catalog. Students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences must fulfill the College General Education Requirements listed below in Section I. These also satisfy the University requirements. Students should take as many of these courses as possible during the first two years in order to concentrate on the major during the last two years.
Students transferring from other schools or colleges within the University to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences must meet the requirements of the College in effect at the time they enter the College. Students intending to transfer to a professional school should choose courses meeting the requirements of both the school and this College whenever possible.
Students may earn a Bachelor of Arts in most College of Liberal Arts and Sciences majors. Bachelor of Science candidates must major in Biology, Chemistry, Geology and Geophysics, Individualized, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology or Statistics. The General Education Requirements in Groups VII and VIII differ for the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science. There may also be some differences in the major requirements.
I. General Education Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Degrees
No course on Pass/Fail meets the following requirements. Because of the limits on Pass/Fail courses throughout the University, students should ponder the Pass/Fail option with care.
Liberal Arts students may not receive course credit by examination for first year (elementary) or second year (intermediate) language courses.
Students must pass English 105 before taking any 100-level W-course; they must also pass English 109, but they may take it either before or while taking a 100-level W-course. Students may not use more than one 100-level course as a W-course. Students passing English 250 need not take either English 105 or English 109.
Students take the Q-Course Readiness Test when registering for the first semester. Students failing the test must pass Mathematics 101, a remedial course in intermediate algebra. Grades and credits for Mathematics 101 count toward the grade point average, but the credits do not count toward graduation.
All students must take three Q-courses (quantitative) and one C-course (computer). These skill courses may meet more than one requirement. Unless the student has a high pass on the Q-Course Readiness Test, at least one mathematics or statistics course must be used to meet the Q-Course requirement.
A. Literature
Group 5. Culture and Modern Society
All students must pass either History 100 or History 101 and one course from both of the following groups.
A. Western Culture
Students may meet this requirement by completing the courses described in a, b, or c, below. Only courses taken at the University of Connecticut meet the requirement. Students may not use Pass/Fail courses to meet these requirements. Exceptions are made by the dean of the college.
a. Major and related groups. The field of concentration includes both the major and related groups; it must total at least 36 credits, all numbered 200 or above. At least 24 credits in one department, or with the permission of the head of the student's major department, in two related departments, make up the major group. At least 12 credits in courses closely related to the student's major, but outside the major department, make up the related group. Students must earn a grade point average of 2.0 or better in the 24 credits making up the major group.
b. Double Major Program. Students may earn a double major by fulfilling all the major requirements of any two departments or programs within the College. Candidates shall choose one of the two departments or programs as their primary major. They shall register with that department or program and receive the degree appropriate to that department or program.
c. Individualized major. Students who are not on scholastic probation and have a total GPA of 2.0 may apply for an individualized major. The major consists of 36 credits numbered 200 or above from two or more departments in the University. At least 18 of the credits shall come from departments from this College. Students must earn a GPA of 2.5 or better in the 36 concentration credits. The student may include no more than 6 credits of independent study nor more than 12 credits of field work. To earn the Bachelor of Science Degree students must fulfill the general education requirements for a Bachelor of Science within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The 36 credit plan of study must consist of at least 24 credits at the 200 level from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in chemistry, ecology and evolutionary biology, geology, marine sciences, mathematics, molecular and cell biology, physics, physiology and neurobiology, psychology and/or statistics departments.
Students should submit proposals after they have earned 40 credits, but prior to beginning their final 30 credits of study. Internship, field work, research, or study abroad are recommended as part of the proposed plan of study. The proposed field of concentration must show coherence of subject matter or principle and have academic merit. For further information and application forms, contact the CLAS Undergraduate Center, Room 14, Wood Hall (860) 486-3631.
III. Plan of Study=
Students shall file with the department of their major, after approval by their major academic advisor, a tentative plan of study on a form provided by the adviser. Students must file the tentative plan of study by the beginning of advance registration in their fifth semester.
Students shall file a final plan of study with the Registrar by the end of the fourth week of the semester in which they expect to graduate. The adviser and the department head shall approve the final plan of study.
Students completing a double major must file a plan of study for each
major.
The basic Air Force ROTC course, called the General Military Course (GMC), covers the freshman and sophomore years; juniors, seniors and others may also participate. Unless they've already accepted AFROTC scholarships, students aren't obligated to the Air Force at this time. During the two years, students take a one-credit Air Force ROTC class each semester; we recommend the following sequence: AIRF 113, AIRF 114, AIRF 123 and AIRF 124. Students register for these classes as they would any other academic class at the University of Connecticut. Also, they attend Leadership Laboratory, a cadet-run, two-hour-a-week session. Leadership Laboratory provides cadets with "hands-on" command and leadership experience through participation in cadet corps activities.
The advanced course, called the Professional Officer Course (POC), covers the junior and senior years. Before entering this phase, students must compete for and secure an Air Force allocation and successfully complete a four-week field training camp. Students who don't complete the entire GMC enroll the same way, but attend field training for six weeks instead of four. If still interested in an Air Force commission, they sign a contract obligating them to the Air Force.
In the POC, students take a three-credit Air Force ROTC class every semester and attend Leadership Laboratory (other UConn students may also take the academic classes without obligation to the Air Force); also, they must maintain full-time student status. Students in the POC receive a nontaxable allowance of $150 per month. The Air Force commissions these students as second lieutenants after graduation and completion of all Air Force ROTC requirements. Most second lieutenants serve an initial obligation of four years on active duty in the Air Force; after completing flight training, pilot and navigator candidates owe eight and six years respectively.
Please contact the Air Force ROTC office at (860) 486-2224 for further information.
All majors must take the following courses: a 100 level Anthropology course, as well as, Anthropology 214, 220, 233, and 244. Students must take at least one course in an ethnographic area (Anthropology 221, 222, 223, 225, 226, 227W, 228, 229, 230, 238, 241, 242W, 243, 270).
In addition, majors must take at least three Upper Division anthropology courses two of which are not ethnographic area courses. We strongly recommend that majors take Anthropology 212 and a course in methodology. These two courses should be taken during the student's senior year, if possible. Students may choose from a wide variety of related courses in other departments.
Anthropology Minor
The requirements for the Minor in Anthropology are at least 15 credits in Anthropology courses that include (1) two courses chosen from Anthropology 214, 220, 233, and 244, and (2) three additional upper division courses, with the exception that not more than three credits of 290 - 299 series courses may be counted toward the minor. Students are encouraged to consult with advisors in Anthropology and in their major field to design a plan of study appropriate to their long-term goals.
The Bachelor of Science degree is generally recommended for students planning a scientific career in biology, but the Bachelor of Arts degree in Biological Sciences allows a richer liberal arts program and provides good preparation for many careers, including subsequent graduate study. Booklets describing the four majors and recommending courses and plans of study are available in the Biology Central Services office (Torrey Life Sciences Building, Room 161), in the EEB, MCB, and PNB departmental offices, and at the Academic Advisory Center (basement of Wood Hall). Students are also urged to discuss the various options early in their studies with an advisor made available through the departmental offices.
Credit restriction, prerequisites: In no case may students receive more than 12 credits for courses in biology at the 100's level. BIOL 100, 102, and 103 are intended for non-majors. Students may receive 100's level course credits in biology based on their performance on the Biology Advanced Placement Test of the College Entrance Board Examination.
Students lacking a prerequisite but interested in taking a course are encouraged to discuss obtaining special permission to enroll with the instructor.
Biological Sciences Major
The requirements for the major in Biological Sciences are designed to ensure a sound and broad background in biology, with opportunities to explore related fields. Biological Sciences majors should take BIOL 107 and 108, but majors interested primarily in botany may wish to take BIOL 110 in addition or may substitute BIOL 110 for BIOL 108.
Majors in Biological Sciences must complete at least one course from each of the following three core groups: I: MCB 200, 210, 213, II: EEB 244, 245, III: PNB 250, MCB 259. Majors are urged to complete at least four courses in any of the three departments at the 200's level or above that include laboratory work. In addition to laboratory work associated directly with courses, Independent Study (course #299 in any of the three biology departments) will provide majors with a means of gaining specific research experience. A total of 24 credits above the 100's level is required for the major, plus 12 credits above the 100's level in a related field or fields).
Biological Sciences Minor
Students wishing a minor in Biological Sciences must take at least 15 credits of 200's level courses from Biology: EEB, Biology: MCB, and Biology: PNB. It is strongly recommended that at least one course include laboratory or field work. Courses chosen for the minor must include at least one course or course sequence from each of the following three groups:
Group A. Biology: MCB 200, MCB 203, MCB 204, MCB 210, MCB 213, or MCB 229.
Group B. Biology: EEB: 244/244W or EEB 245/245W.
Group C. Biology: PNB 250, MCB 259, PNB 264-265, or PNB 274-275. PNB 264-265 or 274-275 must be taken in sequence to be counted towards the Biology minor.
Environmental Biology Concentration: Students interested in a career in Environmental Biology may wish to follow a program emphasizing ecology and environmental sciences leading to a B.S. or B.A. degree in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Environmental Biology. In addition to satisfying the minimum requirements for the B.S. or B.A. degree, students must take BIOL 107, 108 (or 110) and CHEM 127-128. Students are also urged to take STAT 110, CS 110, and CHEM 243, 244. In satisfying the requirements for a major in Biological Sciences, students are required to take EEB 244, 245 and 293S, either MCB 200 or 213, and either MCB 259 or PNB 250. In addition to these core courses, students must take at least two organism-oriented courses (list I) and two process-oriented courses (list II) from: List I: EEB 200, 201 (or 202), 252 (or 243W or 286), 271 (or 272 or 277), 275, 283, 281(W), 290, 465, MCB 229. List II: EEB 238, 247, 268, 294, 296, GEOG 215, GEOL 220,234, NRME 204, PLSC 250, MARN 280W, MARN 380. The recommended curriculum in Environmental Biology is available in expanded form from the Academic Advisory Center.
Interested students should also review the multidisciplinary Environmental Science major.
Biotechnology Concentration: Students interested in a career in biotechnology are encouraged to follow a program emphasizing biochemistry, microbiology and molecular genetics and leading to a B.S. degree in Biology with concentration in Biotechnology. Students should contact the Biotechnology Program, Biotechnology Center, U-125, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3042 before entering the University or during their first year. It will be difficult to complete the Biotechnology curriculum unless the following courses have been completed by the end of the second semester: English 105, 109, Mathematics 115, 116 (or MATH 112, 113, 114), Chemistry 127-128, Biology 107 and either Biology 108 or 110. The major in Molecular and Cell Biology (see below) is also appropriate preparation for further study in biotechnology.
Biophysics Major
The University of Connecticut is one of a small number of institutions offering an undergraduate major in Biophysics. This B.S. program emphasizes the physical and chemical foundations of molecular biology, and features a course curriculum which is also recommended as a guide to students in other biology majors and to chemistry, physics, and bioengineering majors who wish to take courses in this area. Prerequisite courses are Chemistry 127, 128, Mathematics 115, 116 (or MATH 112, 113, 114), 210, 211, and Physics 131, 132 or equivalent. For the major, the following courses should be taken: Chemistry 243, 244 (or 248, 249), 245, 263, 264, (265 optional), Biology: MCB 204, 208, 209. One or more of the following are recommended for breadth of background; Biology: MCB 210, 212, 213, 226, 229, Chemistry 232, Computer Science 110, 130. Students are encouraged to contact biophysics faculty in the sophomore year or early in the junior year about participating in research programs, as Biology: MCB 292 or 299. Elective courses should be selected in consultation with advisors. Additional information, including names of biophysics faculty advisors, is available from the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Room 205 Life Sciences Annex, Room 265 Torrey Life Sciences, or Room 321 Beach Hall.
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Major
This major is suitable for students with interests in organismic biology, including the fields of ecology, evolution, systematics, botany, zoology, environmental biology, conservation biology, and behavior. Students may opt for either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree. There are many opportunities for undergraduates to gain research experience through independent study courses individually arranged with departmental faculty members. The department also supports an internationally recognized graduate program leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees.
Prerequisite courses are Biology 107 and Biology 108 or 110, Chemistry 127 and 128, and at least one semester of organic chemistry. Students are encouraged to also complete a course in statistics.
In addition, students must fulfill the following requirements in their major and related areas:
Students wishing a minor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology must take at least 15 credits of 200's level (or higher) EEB courses, one of which must be either 244(or 244W) or 245 (or 245W).
Molecular and Cell Biology Major
This B.S. program is suitable for students with interests in biology at the cellular and subcellular level, including the areas of biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology, molecular genetics, and microbiology, and their applications in biotechnology and medical science.
Many opportunities for independent research projects in these areas are open for undergrad_uates, and an active graduate program of M.S. and Ph.D. research is available. The following 100's level courses are required: BIOL 107; CHEM 127, 128; MATH 115, 116 or 112, 113, 114; and PHYSICS 131, 132 or 121, 122, 123. Molecular and Cell Biology majors must complete the following core courses: Biology: MCB 200, 204, 210 or 229, and CHEM 243, 244. (Biology: MCB 213 may be substituted for MCB 200; and Biology: MCB 203 and 226 may be substituted for MCB 204, with permission of the Department Head.) In addition, students must take at least two MCB laboratory courses to be chosen from the following: Biology: MCB 214, 215, 220(W), 224, 226, 229 (if not used as a core course in the above list), 233, 235, 240W, 299 (which may be repeated, but only 3 credits may count toward the 24 credits of required MCB courses). For breadth in biology, it is recommended that students take Biology: PNB 250 or Biology: MCB 259, and Biology: EEB 244 or 245. Majors must complete at least 24 credits in Biology: MCB courses. Additional information is available from the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Room 205 Life Sciences Annex, Room 265 Torrey Life Sciences, or Room 321 Beach Hall.
Molecular and Cell Biology Minor
Students wishing a minor in Molecular and Cell Biology must take at least 15 credits of 200's level MCB courses, including at least one course from each of the following four groups:
Department of Molecular and Cell Biology
The Department of Molecular and Cell Biology offers courses and programs of study for students interested in biology at the cellular and molecular level, including the areas of biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, plant and animal cell biology, microbiology, developmental biology, immunology, and biotechnology.
Many opportunities for independent research projects in these areas are open for undergraduates, and an active graduate program of M.S. and Ph.D. research is available.
Physiology and Neurobiology Major
This major, which leads to a Bachelor of Science, is suitable for students interested in the physiology and neurobiology of humans and animals. Coursework and independent study opportunities span the fields of comparative physiology, neurobiology, molecular endocrinology, reproductive endocrinology, developmental neurobiology and neurochemistry.
The following 100's level courses are required:
BIOL 107, 108; CHEM 127-128; MATH 115-116 or 112-113-114;
PHYS 131-132 or 121-122-123 or 141-142-143
PNB majors must take no fewer than 24 credits in PNB courses numbered 200 and above. These must include all of the following core courses: PNB 250, 251, 262, 274-275. The remaining credits needed to fulfill this requirement should be selected from the available PNB courses, including PNB 225, 263W, 260, 292W, 298, 299. (At most 3 credits from among PNB 292W, 298 and 299 may count towards the 24 credit requirement.)
PNB majors must also take all of the following courses, which count as the related group:
CHEM 243, 244; MCB 204 and either 200 or 213.
In addition, students are urged to take:
CHEM 245; EEB 244 or 244W or 245 or 245W; MCB 210.
Physiology and Neurobiology Minor
Students desiring a minor in Physiology and Neurobiology must take at least 15 credits of 200's level PNB courses including fulfilling the Core requirements of either Group A or Group B, below:
The B.A. degree is appropriate for students who are interested in chemistry but do not wish to pursue a career as a laboratory scientist. The B.S. degree prepares students to pursue graduate study in Chemistry or to find employment in technologically oriented industries.
Prospective chemistry majors should receive all course counseling from a member of the Chemistry faculty as early as possible, preferably before scheduling first year courses. Prospective majors with a good high school chemistry background should take CHEM 153 and 154 in their first year. Other prospective majors should take CHEM 127-128.
The Department strongly advises Chemistry majors to complete the required four semesters of required calculus including MATH 112, 115 or 120; 116 or 121; 210 or 220; and 211 or 221 by the end of the fourth semester. Failure to do so may delay completion of the degree. In addition, chemistry majors must complete a year of physics, usually Physics 131-132.
Chemistry Minor
Students minoring in Chemistry must take at least 15 credits of 200-level
Chemistry courses. The following courses are required:
Bachelor of Science
At least 35 credits of Chemistry courses numbered 200 and above must be successfully completed for the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in addition to the College requirements. The field of concentration requirements include CHEM 243, 244, 245, (Organic), 263, 264, 265 (Physical), 210, 214, 215 (Inorganic) and 232, 234 (Analytical).
Bachelor of Arts
At least 28 credits of Chemistry courses numbered 200 or above must be successfully completed for the Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry in addition to the College requirements. The field of concentration requirements include those listed above for the B.S. degree with the exception of CHEM 215 and 234.
For the degree certified by the American Chemical Society, two courses designated by the department as advanced courses must be taken in addition to the B.S. requirements. Also, these or other courses beyond the core curriculum must include at least 80 contact hours of laboratory work. The grade point average in all of the required chemistry courses must be at least 2.300.
Members of the Department engage in extensive research programs in the areas of experimental and theoretical analytical, biological, inorganic, organic, physical and polymer chemistry. Research activities involve the synthesis and characterization of new solid state materials, development of new analytical methods, including methods for separations and purification, characterization of new and known materials by spectroscopic and other physical methods, synthesis and applications of new materials in catalysis and related areas, and chemistry and photochemistry of organic and bioorganic materials. Undergraduate students are encouraged to participate in research.
The Master's degree programs in Speech, Language and Hearing are accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. The Speech and Hearing Clinic is accredited by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association's Professional Services Board.
The undergraduate programs in Communication Sciences can be classified as follows:
Communication Disorders. The undergraduate major is a pre-professional program within the liberal arts curriculum. It permits the student to apply for graduate studies in one of two specialty areas: audiology or speech-language pathology.
Students who elect to major in Communication Disorders must take:
In addition, students must take at least two (2) of the following
courses:
Communication Processes. The program in Communication Processes is designed to produce students capable of analyzing human communication behavior from a scientific and behavioral standpoint. It emphasizes the empirical investigation of human communication, stressing developments in communication theory and research with a special emphasis on interpersonal, mass, organizational and international communication. Students who elect to take the Communication Processes program must take:
Communication Processes Minor
Students wishing a minor in Communication Processes must take at least 15 200-level credits in COMS courses. Selected courses must include:
A student majoring in economics should acquire a thorough grounding in basic principles and methods of analysis, plus a working competence in several of the specialized and applied fields. Examples of such fields are industrial organization, law-and-economics, money and banking, international trade and finance, public finance, comparative economic systems, labor economics, health economics, urban and regional economics, and economic development. Topical courses (for example, in the economics of technology or international lending) are also offered from time to time. Majors may also wish to supplement their programs with courses in agricultural or business economics, or economic geography.
Twenty-four credits in 200's level economics courses are required, including two intermediate theory courses (Economics 218 or 218Q, and Economics 219 or 219Q). The intermediate theory courses are open to sophomores and should be taken early in the student's major program. Economics majors are also required to take twelve credits in 200's level courses in fields related to economics, plus STAT 100Q or 110Q and one of the following: MATH 106Q, 113Q, 115Q, 118Q or 120Q. Recommended courses for economics majors include ECON 212 and ENGL 249. The department has special requirements for economics majors in the University Honors and Degree with Distinction Programs and for majors who qualify for the department's Economics Scholars Program. Every major is assigned a faculty advisor to assist in planning an individual program.
Course work in economics serves a wide variety of vocational objectives. An economics major (supplemented by a rigorous calculus and statistics course sequence) is excellent preparation for graduate work in economics, which qualifies a person for academic, business, or government employment. Majors and others with strong economics training are attractive prospects for business firms and government agencies, and for professional graduate study in business or public policy. An economics background is especially desirable for the study and practice of law. For more information, contact the department office for a copy of the Handbook for Economics Majors.
Among the 24 credits of English courses numbered 200 or above needed
for
a major, courses must be selected to fill the following requirements:
(1) 210. (2) 230. (3) Two courses from the following, at least one of which
must be from the first three in the list: 220/220W, 221/221W, 222/222W,
223/223W, 226/226W, and 227/227W; (4) Either 270/270W or 271/271W. (5)
One course from the following: 204, 231, 232, and 264. (6) One course from
the following: 218, 233, 234, 266, 276W, 277W, 278, 285, and 286.
English Minor
Students wishing a minor in English must take at least 15 credits of 200's level English courses, including:
Study Abroad in London. The University sponsors an academic program at The City University in London. Students take university-level courses in the history of London, British art history, British history, English literature and other subjects in the humanities. Students may get further information in the Department office, JHA 332.
Because of the structure of the curriculum, all Environmental Science majors follow similar programs during the first two years. Students should decide before the end of their fourth semester on the concentration they wish to pursue for the remainder of their undergraduate program. The diversity of courses required for this degree mandates that students plan their curriculum carefully to meet the minimum requirements of the school in which they are registered. An appropriate advisor will be assigned at the time a concentration is declared. Undecided students should consult with the Director of the Environmental Science program in either the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences or the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
The University of Connecticut offers other means for students to pursue environmental interests, which may be more appropriate than the Environmental Science major for some students. In the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, majors in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geography, and Geology may pursue environmental concentrations within those degree programs. In the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the departments of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Natural Resource Management and Engineering, and Plant Science offer majors and options for students interested in the environment. Information about these oportunities may be obtained from the appropriate departments.
Environmental Science majors must pass the following core requirements:
A. 100's Level Course Work (49-52 credits)
Environmental Policy and Law
Select one course from:
Select one course from:
Select one of the following two-course options:
Resource Economics (Resource Economics, CANR) _ Students must pass the following courses: ECON 218(Q), ARE 257, ARE 297. Additionally, students must pass at least two of the following: ARE 238, 255(W), 285, 215C
Environmental Health (Animal Science, CANR) _ Students must pass courses in the categories listed:
Environmental Biology (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, CLAS)_ All students must take EEB 293S. In addition, they must select at least one course from each of the following groups.
Group I -- Ecological Systems and Processes
Environmental Geoscience (Geology, CLAS) _ Students must pass the following:GEOL 212, 252, 253
Marine Science (Marine Science, CLAS) _ Students are required to complete four courses from the following list, but with no more than two courses from a single group.
Natural Resources (Natural Resources Management and Engineering, CANR) _ Students must pass five courses from the following group:NRME 204, 205, 210, 214, 217, 237, 239P, 242, 260Q/260P, 287
Soil Science (Plant Science, CANR) _ Students must pass the following courses:PLSC 205, 250, 259C
An important feature of the geography major is its strong emphasis on skills and techniques of geographical analysis. Physical geography courses provide instruction in data collection for environmental analysis. In human geography courses, students deal with the characteristics of places and compile and analyze social, economic, and political data. Another set of courses deal with cartography, statistical analysis and geographically based systems for information storage and retrieval. Through an internship program, advanced students practice geography in state and local government and in private industry.
Geography students are prepared to enter a wide range of careers in business, planning, government, and teaching. In private sector firms, geographers select locations for capital investment, determine market or service areas, assess the impact on the environment of proposed changes in land use, and develop effective strategies for planning. At all levels of government geographers work in teams with other disciplinary experts. Many geographers work for Federal mapping agencies, the Bureau of the Census, the Department of State, the U.S. Geological Survey, or other agencies. The undergraduate program also provides students with the background to pursue graduate degrees in geography or related fields such as urban and regional planning. At the University of Connecticut, graduate study in regional analysis and geographic information systems leads to the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees.
Students seeking more information about the geography major and course offerings should contact the Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Department of Geography, Beach Hall.
Requirements for the Major. The geography major requires 24 credits in 200-level geography courses and 12 credits of related course work in other departments. Majors complete a basic core of courses (Geography 200 or 204, Geography 205, and Geography 242Q) and select 15 additional geography credits, including at least one "W" course numbered 280 or higher in consultation with their departmental advisor. Those courses may be broadly selected or may fall into one of three departmental specializations: Geographic Information Systems, Human Geography and Urban-Economic Systems, Physical and Environmental Systems.
Geography Minor
The requirements for the minor in Geography are Geography 200 or 204, Geography 205, and an additional 9 credits of 200-level Geography courses selected in consultation with an advisor to form a coherent program of study.
Degree programs include the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy. At the undergraduate level, the Bachelor of Science degree program introduces students to fundamental geological principles and to basic research. The Bachelor of Arts degree program is designed to give students a broad understanding of the earth sciences. The Department recommends the Bachelor of Science degree program for students planning to attend graduate school and/or pursue professional careers in the earth sciences.
Required course work for the B.S. and B.A. degrees includes completion of the general requirements of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as well as the specific requirements listed below. A successful understanding of the geological sciences requires a solid background in the basic sciences and mathematics. The Department, therefore, advises students in both the B.S. and B.A. degree programs to complete the College's B.S. Group 8 mathematics and science requirements during the early stages of their academic careers. Faculty advisors provide valuable assistance in selecting a program of study, and new majors should contact the Department for assignment of an advisor as soon as possible.
Bachelor of Arts Degree
The requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree are meant to be very flexible to allow students to put together a program that fits their interests.
Students intending to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree must take at least 36 credits in courses numbered 200 or above. Twenty-four of these credits must be in courses offered by the Department and 12 must be in courses outside the Department but in closely related fields.
Bachelor of Science Degree
The Department offers two options for students deciding to pursue the Bachelor of Science degree: a geology option and a geophysics option. These options permit students to specialize, but still develop a broad understanding of all the geological sciences. Students are encouraged to select one of these options soon after they declare a major in the Department.
Each option requires at least 48 credits in courses numbered 200 or above in science (including mathematics, engineering, agriculture, and natural resources management and engineering). Twelve of these credits must be from outside the Department.
Geology Option. Geology 102, 250, 251, 252, and 253, and at least 15 additional 200 level credits in Geology and Geophysics.
Geophysics Option: Geology 102, 250, 251, 252, 253, 264, and six additional 200 level credits in Geology and Geophysics; Physics 141-142 or 151-152, 143, and 209-210 or 242-246.
The Department recommends that majors elect courses in accordance with their area of specialization and career goals. Those interested in careers in environmental fields such as hydrogeology, engineering geology, and near surface geophysics can follow either option and select appropriate additional course work in consultation with their advisor.
Geology and Geophysics Minor
The Geology and Geophysics Minor is available to students seeking a Baccalaureate Degree from the University in a department other than Geology and Geophysics. Students wishing to minor in Geology and Geophysics must complete the requirements of either the Geology Option or the Geophysics Option.
The Geology Option consists of the following four courses:
The Geophysics Option consists of the following four courses:
A major in history in combination with work in foreign languages, philosophy, literature, and the social sciences provides a broad foundation for informed citizenship. History majors find employment in many fields of human endeavor from arts and business to public service and zymurgy. Specialization in history is especially valuable as pre-professional training for law, government, diplomacy, and journalism and for library, archival, and museum administration.
Students who intend to major or pursue an interest in history should be prepared to read widely, to examine historical documents carefully, and to evaluate historical interpretations critically. Those who expect to go on to graduate work in history should, besides mastering historical methods, devote serious and early attention to foreign languages, statistical methods of interpretation, and other basic tools of historical scholarship. Students who intend to teach history in the public schools should consult the appropriate advisor in the School of Education.
Honors students who plan to major in history will normally take History 203.
Requirements for the Major in History: Undergraduate majors (including double majors) are required to take at least 27 credits in 200-level courses, which must include one three-credit course from each of Groups A, B, and C, and two three-credit courses from Group D. All majors must take HIST 211 in the semester following their declaration as majors, and all majors except Honors students must take HIST 297W in their senior year. Students pursuing a joint (not a double) major in history and a related department are required to take at least one course in two of the four groups.
With the consent of the undergraduate major's advisor, 300-level courses may be used to fulfill the distribution requirement.
Group A Ancient, Medieval, and Early Modern
Students must pass five courses (15 credits) from at least two Distribution Groups (A-D). One of the five courses must be from the basic courses listed below. At least one of the additional four courses must be in a Distribution Group other than that of the basic course.
Basic Courses
Optional List of Courses for the Minor
Although the department emphasizes print journalism, some courses, such as those dealing with law and history, apply to broadcast journalism as well. Writing courses teach students to report thoroughly, to write clearly and concisely, and to grasp quickly the most important facts in a mass of material. These are skills that are essential to the successful practice of either print or broadcast journalism.
Students who major in journalism should also take related courses in history, economics, political science and other liberal arts disciplines as a sound preparation for news reporting. The department strongly urges students to complete a second major. Students also should gain professional experience before graduation, either through part-time jobs, the Co-operative Education Program or the department's internship program. Internships are available at newspapers, radio and television stations, magazines, public relations offices and political press offices.
In addition to satisfying the requirements of the College, majors must complete Journalism 200, 201, 202, 220 and 230. Journalism 102 is a prerequisite for Journalism 202.
The Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies administers the undergraduate major in Latin American Studies, a program of study leading to the B.A. degree. The major in Latin American Studies consists of a minimum of 36 credit hours of interdisciplinary course work built around 5 core courses (15 credit hours) as follows:
Latin American Studies Minor
The minor in Latin American Studies provides basic, interdisciplinary understanding of Latin America and the Caribbean that supplements a student's undergraduate major. Students minoring in Latin American Studies must complete, with grades of C or better, a minimum of four 200- level courses on Latin America and/or the Caribbean selected from at least three disciplines. At least two of the four courses must be selected from the following:
For further information about Latin American Studies, contact the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Human Development Center, Room 3, (860) 486-4964.
Study Abroad. While study abroad is not mandatory, we strongly urge all Latin American Studies majors and minors to spend at least a semester in Latin America. The University sponsors academic programs in Mexico at the Universidad de las Américas, Puebla, in the Dominican Republic, at the Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra, Santiago de los Caballeros, at the University of Costa Rica in San José, Costa Rica, at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and the Universidad de Chile in Santiago, Chile and at the Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Students may go for either a semester or a full academic year. The University also sponsors an academic year and a one-semester program in Brazil at the Universidade de São Paulo. For further information, contact the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies or the Study Abroad Office.
For the Linguistics and Philosophy joint major, specifically required courses are Linguistics 206 (Syntax and Semantics) and Philosophy 241 (Language: Meaning and Truth).
For the Linguistics and Psychology joint major, specifically required linguistics courses are: LING 202 and 215, and at least two out of LING 205Q, 206Q, 208W, and 244W; and specifically required psychology courses are: PSYC 202Q and 221, and at least two out of PSYC 210W, 215W, 220, 236, 254, and 256. All students in the Linguistics/Psychology Major are strongly encouraged to take LING/PSYC 305 in their senior year.
Linguistics Minor
A minor in Linguistics requires 15 credits of 200's-level course work in linguistics and a related area. Required courses are:
A. Core areas of theoretical Linguistics
B. Linguistics extensions
C. Linguistics in related fields
The Department has several undergraduate offerings designed to introduce students to the field of marine science at the Lower Division level.
The Department generally encourages undergraduates to focus their academic studies in a field of science related to the marine sciences (e.g., biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering). The Department offers a suite of courses designed to accommodate related area studies and to provide training in the marine sciences at a level commensurate with undergraduate programs in other natural sciences and engineering. An interdisciplinary major under the academic guidance of the Department is available on a limited basis.
Concentration in Marine Sciences. The Department is associated with the Environmental Science Program, and faculty serve as advisors to students pursuing a concentration in Marine Sciences. Students are required to complete four courses from the following list, but with no more than two courses from a single group.
A minor in Marine Biology requires at least 15 credits of 200's course work in marine biology and related courses.
Required courses (Group A) are:
Students desiring a minor in Oceanography must take at least 15 credits of 200's level courses including fulfilling the Core requirements.
Required courses (Group A) are:
Students who intend to take Mathematics 115 or 120 must show proficiency in algebra and trigonometry by passing the Calculus Readiness Test in algebra and trigonometry.
Calculus Sequence: The Department has three basic Calculus sequences:
Mathematics 112, 113, 114, 210, 211; Mathematics 115, 116, 210, 211; and
Mathematics 120, 121, 220, 221. One of these three sequences is required
for most advanced courses. Students intending to major in Mathematics or
areas needing Mathematics are urged to complete these sequences as early
as possible.
The 120, 121, 220, 221 sequence is preferred for Mathematics majors.
Mathematics majors should also take Mathematics 213 in their sophomore
year.
It is strongly recommended that all Mathematics majors acquire a working knowledge of at least one programming language by the end of their sophomore year.
Mathematics 242W, 247, and 248 may not be counted in any of the major groups listed below.
The Department offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics, Applied Mathematical Sciences, Mathematics-Statistics, and Mathematics-Actuarial Science. The Bachelor of Science program provides in-depth training in Mathematics as preparation for graduate study or for participation in scientific and engineering teams in government, industry, or research laboratories. The Bachelor of Arts degree is designed to provide training in contemporary mathematics without the depth and concentrated specialization required for the Bachelor of Science program.
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics: The requirements for the B.S. in Mathematics are Mathematics 220 and 221 (or 210, 211 and 227), 213, 215, 216, 273-274, and at least 9 additional credits from any of the following courses: Mathematics 204, 217, 223, 224, 231, 235, 237, 250, 252, 255, 258, 272, 277, 278, 281, 282, 286, and approved sections of 297 and 298. In addition, at least 12 credits at the 200 level in approved related areas are required.
Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics: The requirements for the B.A. in Mathematics are 27 credits of 200-level course work in Mathematics and 12 credits of course work in approved related areas. The required courses are Mathematics 210 and 211 (or 220 and 221), 213, 215, 216, and 273. The remaining credits may come from any 200-level Mathematics courses, except Mathematics 242W, 247 and 248.
Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematical Sciences: The requirements for the B.S. in Applied Mathematical Sciences are Mathematics 220 (or 210 and 211), 213, 227, 272, 273, 281, and 282, and two courses to be selected from Mathematics 204, 221, 231, 237, 252, 255, 274, 277, 278, and approved sections of 297 and 298, and at least 3 additional credits from Mathematics 215, 216, 217, 223, 224, 231, 235, 250, 258, 286, and approved sections of 297 and 298. In addition, at least 12 credits at the 200 level in approved related areas are required.
Bachelor of Arts in Applied Mathematical Sciences: The requirements for the B.A. in Applied Mathematical Sciences are 27 credits of 200's level course work in Mathematics and at least 12 credits in approved related areas. The required courses for the degree are Mathematics 210 or 220, 211 or 221, 215 or 227, 272, 281, and 282. The remainder of the 27 credits of Mathematics must be chosen from Mathematics 204, 213 or 214, 231, 237, 252, 255, 273, 277 and 278.
Bachelor of Science or Arts in Mathematics-Statistics: The requirements for the B.S. or B.A. in Mathematics-Statistics degree are 36 credits at the 200's level in Mathematics and Statistics (in addition to Mathematics 210 or 220), with at least 12 credits in each department. The required courses for the Mathematics-Statistics major are Mathematics 215 or 227, 211 or 221, and Statistics 230 and 231.
Bachelor of Science or Arts in Mathematics-Actuarial Science: The requirements for the B.S. or B.A. degree in Mathematics-Actuarial Science are 36 credits at the 200's level in Mathematics, Statistics, Business, and related areas (in addition to Mathematics 210 or 220). The required courses are Mathematics 227 or 215, 231, 211 or 221, 281, 285, 287-288, Statistics 230 and 231, and Finance 221 or 225. Students should include Economics 111 and 112, a Computer Science course, and Accounting 131 in their program of study as early as possible. Admittance to this program is available only to students who meet at least one of the following requirements:
Mathematics Minor
The requirements for the minor in Mathematics are Mathematics 210 (or 220), 211 (or 221), 227 (or 215), and at least 6 credits from any of the following courses: Mathematics 204, 216, 223, 231, 235, 250, 252, 258, 273, 281, 286 or approved sections of 298.
In addition, the University requires a grade of C or better in each course in the minor. Also, the student must be seeking a bacculaureate degree from the University in a department other than Mathematics.
The basic course covers the freshman and sophomore years and includes four one-credit lecture courses consisting of 50 minutes of class time and a leadership lab. Courses focus on many skills like map reading, orienteering, and leadership development. There is no military obligation in the basic course. Students desiring to take the basic course need only to register during the normal registration period.Veterans (including current members of the National Guard or Army Reserve) should consult with the Professor of Military Science (PMS) for possible waiver of the basic course.
A two-year alternative to the basic course requires attending a paid, six-week camp following the student's sophomore year. Interested students should contact the PMS during the third or fourth semester.
Freshmen, sophomores, and students with at least six remaining semesters in undergraduate programs may compress General Military Science I and II, earning up to 4 credit hours, by special arrangement with the PMS.
The advanced course covers the junior and senior years and includes four three-credit courses that meet for three hours per week, plus a leadership lab. The course concentrates on small unit leadership and tactical skills during the junior year, and on the role of an officer in leading, managing, training, and motivating during the senior year. Advanced course students attend a five-week summer camp after the junior year. The camp is designed to develop and evaluate advanced leadership skills. Participation in the advanced course entails military obligation. Entry into the advanced course is subject to the approval of the PMS. All contracted advanced course cadets receive a subsistence allowance of $150 per month. The Catalog reflects the normal four year track to commissioning.
Two, three, and four-year scholarships are available to qualified students. These scholarships pay tuition and most educational fees; a book and supply allowance of $450; a subsistence allowance of $150; and lab, transcript, and engineering fees as applicable. Criteria considered include academic performance, major, leadership experience and potential, and physical fitness as evaluated through a board scholarship interview. The minimum qualifying GPA is 2.5.
Interested students should visit the AROTC office or call (860) 486-6081/4538.
Ordinarily study abroad or internship in the major modern language for at least one semester (or approved equivalent time period) will be required for all majors. With the advisor's consent students may choose from a variety of programs. The department conducts programs in Austria, France, Italy, Spain and Germany, sponsors a resident study program in Mexico and offers credit arrangements for study at a Goethe Institute in Germany. Such study normally is most valuable during the junior year, but unusually qualified sophomores and some seniors are also eligible. (The year abroad program in Italy welcomes applications by sophomores, juniors and seniors.) Additional language experience is available through residence in the University's Foreign Language dormitory. Students interested in any of these possibilities should consult early with their advisors.
Courses numbered in the 200's are open to freshmen and sophomores if they meet the prerequisites for the course. In the modern languages, classwork is conducted in the foreign language unless otherwise indicated.
Many courses offered by this department are also applicable toward the B.A. and M.A. in European Area Studies and in Latin American Studies.
The Classics major permits a variety of options ranging from the traditional language-oriented program to a Classical Studies program. Students electing the major must complete a minimum of 8 courses from the following list, including:
The minor in Classics allows students to pursue an interest in Greek and Latin Literature, History, and Art through an organized course of study. Those students who wish to work in the original language may elect to do so as well. Students electing the minor must complete a minimum of 15 credits from the following list, including:
A. Two courses on Classical or Biblical literature in English (a second course from C may be substituted for any of these):
Students majoring in French must complete the following courses: 210 and 211, 261 and 262, 268, 272 and two from 218, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 257, 280, 281, and 282. Each major is advised to complete a Senior Seminar. No more than 15 credits earned at Paris may count toward the major.
Study Abroad in France. Students participating in the Paris Program attend the University of Paris and may earn a full academic year's credit at the University of Connecticut and a maximum of 15 credits toward the major in French. The department encourages interdisciplinary work in this program and wishes students to take non-literary courses whenever possible.
While in Paris, students may take the equivalent of most of the courses offered in the Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Connecticut. Please contact the director of the Study Abroad Program or the French Studies Program at 486-3313 or 486-3258 for detailed information.
French Minor
The minor in French will offer to students who arrive at UConn with no background in French the opportunity to pursue advanced studies in language, literature, and culture of the French-speaking world. Fifteen credits of French will be required for the minor. These are the courses a student pursuing the minor in French must complete:
Students majoring in German have a choice between a concentration in German literature or German studies. For the major in literature the following courses are required: 1) 233, 234; 2) three from among the following literature courses: 252, 253, 254, 255, 293 (on a literary topic), 296 (on a literary topic), and 298 (on a literary topic); 3) two from 200, 231, 232, 243, 244, 271, 281, 285, 293 (on a non-literary topic), 296 (on a non-literary topic) and 298 (on a non-literary topic); and 4) one of the following courses taught in English: 251 or 280W. (Only one course taught in English is allowable toward the literature major.)
For the major in German studies the following courses are required:
1) 233, 234, 251; 2) four from 200, 231, 232, 243, 244, 271, 280W, 281,
285, 293 (on a non-literary topic) and 296 (on a non-literary topic) and
298 (on a non-literary
topic); 3) one of the following literature courses: 252, 253, 254,
255, 293, (on a literary topic), 296 (on a literary topic) and 298 (on
a literary topic). (Only two courses taught in English are allowable toward
the German studies major.)
The 12-credit related group requirement may be met by appropriate courses in other foreign languages as well as English, History, Economics, Political Science, and other departments. For students interested in international business, combinations with Marketing or Management courses are also possible.
Eurotech. In collaboration with the School of Engineering, the German Section offers Eurotech, a carefully structured five-year, double-degree program enabling students who have been admitted to the School of Engineering to earn both a B.A. in German and a B.S. in Engineering. The program includes German language courses specially designed to include engineering content, engineering courses partly taught in German, and a six-month internship in a German-speaking company. There is a special emphasis on environmental engineering and pollution prevention. Eurotech students may substitute GERM 220, 221, and 222 for one of the courses in category 3 required of majors in German literature; and for one of the courses in category 2 required of majors in German Studies.
Study Abroad in Austria and Germany. The University of Connecticut sponsors a variety of programs in Salzburg, Regensburg and a number of universities in the State of Baden-Württemberg that allow students to follow their own concentration and interests. Students also have the possibility of work-study programs and internships. For detailed information please see any member of the German faculty.
German Minor
The minor in German allows students to develop knowledge and skills in the areas of German language, literature, and culture through a coherent course of study. Students electing this minor must complete a minimum of 15 credits at the 200 level distributed across the following categories:
1. Language skill courses: students must choose 2 of the following 6 courses:
Students majoring in Italian must complete a minimum of 8 courses (the equivalent of 24 credits) to be chosen among the following: 237, 238, 239, 240, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, and 254. No more than 15 credits earned in Florence may count toward the major.
Study Abroad in Italy. Students participating in the "Florence Study Program" may earn up to 30 credits during the academic year they spend in Florence; participants register at the University of Florence where they may take courses in any discipline. The Program also offers courses designed exclusively for its participants and taught by Italian professors. No more than 15 credits taken in Florence may count toward a major in Italian at this University. For detailed information, please see the director of the "Florence Program."
Italian Minor
The minor in Italian requires at least 18 credits in 200 level Italian courses as specified in the Catalog. All of the courses listed below require Italian 145, 146, 147, 148, or the equivalent, as prerequisites, but these courses do not count towards the Minor. The following are the courses a student pursuing the Minor in Italian to complete:
The Portuguese major consists of a minimum of 24 upper-division credits in Portuguese and a minimum of 12 upper-division credits in a related field. The major allows the student to develop knowledge and skills in the areas of Portuguese language, the 6th most widely spoken in the world; literature; and culture, through a coherent course of study.
Portuguese Minor
The minor in Portuguese allows the students who come to college without a background in Portuguese to pursue an interest in the language, literature, and culture of the Portuguese-speaking world in an organized course of study. Eighteen credits are required. Students electing the Minor must complete:
1. The Major Group. Spanish courses comprise two main groups: A. Literature. B. Language and Culture.
Study Abroad in Spain and Latin America. Courses taken abroad in the programs operated by UConn in Granada, Spain or Puebla, Mexico will count toward the Spanish major as follows:
Spanish Minor
The minor in Spanish is intended for a student who wishes to pursue further the study of the literature, language, and culture of the Spanish-speaking peoples in an organized course of study. The minor requires passing 18 credits at the 200's level as follows:
Students majoring in philosophy must earn 24 or more credits in philosophy courses numbered above the 100's level, and 12 or more credits in related fields. Within the 24 credits in philosophy, students must pass Philosophy 221 and 222, and at least two of the following four courses: Philosophy 210, 211, 212, and 215.
The Philosophy Department also offers, with the Linguistics Department, a joint major in Philosophy and Linguistics. Students choosing this concentration must earn 12 credits or more at the 200's level from each of the two Departments. Within the total of 24 credits, students must pass both Philosophy 241 and Linguistics 206.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers the Bachelor of Arts as well as the Bachelor of Science degrees with a major in Physics. The requirements for these two degrees, and the objectives of the corresponding degree programs, are quite different. For that reason it is essential that prospective students read this section on the physics department's curriculum in conjunction with the general description of the college's degree requirements. The Bachelor of Science degree has been designed to provide talented and disciplined students an opportunity to receive a professional education in the natural sciences. This education should enable well qualified graduates to succeed in further advanced study in any graduate program in physics, or else to help them find satisfying employment in technologically oriented industries.
The requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in physics consist of the common distribution requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree. In addition, 36 credits of physics courses numbered 200 or above are required, and these must include Physics 230, 242, 246, 255, 257, 258-259, 261-262 and 271. Also, 12 credits from a related group numbered 200 or above are required. Besides the second-year calculus courses, which are prerequisites for most physics courses, mathematics courses such as differential equations for applications, linear algebra, complex variables are recommended for the related group; however, other courses closely related to physics can be taken to fulfill the related group requirements. The Bachelor of Science program makes provisions for a year of introductory quantum mechanics in the student's junior year and allows for graduate courses, for other advanced courses, and for the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research in the senior year. The physics faculty has an important professional commitment to a continuing research effort. That effort consists of experimental studies of new physical phenomena; and of mathematical investigations that formulate, or explore the implications of tentatively proposed physical theories. This research constitutes one of the faculty's major professional responsibilities, and is the arena in which much of the training of graduate students take place. Advanced undergraduates are also encouraged to participate in this research. The physics department has an extensive research program that includes experimental work in atomic and molecular beam collision spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, electron spin resonance, color centers, laser spectroscopy, ion implantation in solids, photoemission spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility, phonon interactions and transport properties in solids, surface physics and nuclear physics. In theoretical physics active programs include atomic and molecular physics, solid state physics, chemical physics, nuclear physics, quantum field theory and elementary particle theory, the theory of relativity, and quantum optics. Students can choose to work with any of these groups to the extent to which their interests and abilities are matched to the opportunities available at any given time.
The requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree in physics consist of the distribution requirements for that degree, and 24 credits of physics courses above the 100 level, including Physics 242, 246, 255, 257 and 4 credits of laboratory work. The Bachelor of Arts degree in physics is ideally suited for students interested in combining a study of physics with other subjects, or for those intending to major in physics as a preparation for further professional studies, such as medicine, law, etc.
The physics department makes a number of introductory physics courses
available to students with diverse interests and career goals. The two
year sequence, Physics 141-142-143-230 is the most appropriate choice for
physics majors and for students who need an exceptionally strong preparation
in physics.
This sequence covers the introductory material in two academic years,
although it does so with greater depth and sophistication than any other
introductory physics course available in this department. Physics 131-132
is a calculus-based introductory course that covers the necessary introductory
material in a single academic year. It will be particularly useful for
many science majors and for pre-medical, pre-dental and pre-veterinary
students. It will be assumed that students who choose Physics 131-132 are
comfortable with algebraic and trigonometric manipulations and that they
can carry them out accurately, purposefully and with confidence. Physics
121-122 is an option without a calculus pre- or corequisite and demands
lesser mathematical skills from its students than Physics 131-132, but
it still satisfies the formal physics requirements for admission to medical,
dental, or veterinary schools. It has traditionally been particularly useful
to students in the health service professions allied to medicine. Some
students will want to supplement Physics 121-122 with further work in Physics
123, 125 or with Physics 209-210. Physics 151-152 is an introductory physics
course designed to fit optimally into the curriculum of the School of Engineering.
Physics 101 is a one semester introductory course that makes less use of
mathematics than Physics 121-122, so that it becomes accessible to students
for whom a one year introductory course might not be a viable choice. Physics
103 is a one semester course that applies elementary physical principles
to a study of usable energy and environmental quality. It is the only 100-level
course without a laboratory portion and is not considered a bona fide introductory
physics course. Physics 107 is a one semester course that applies basic
principles of physics and scientific reasoning to a study of the production
and perception of music.
It is strongly recommended that students with any interest in physics, either as potential majors or otherwise, consult with a member of the physics faculty as early as possible, preferably before scheduling their first year courses.
Students interested in biophysics can either take a physics major program
and include biology (biophysics) courses, or they can take the biophysics
major program as described under Biology. Similarly, students interested
in geophysics can take a physics major program and include Geology 264,
266, 267, and 268, or they can take a geophysics program as described under
Geology and Geophysics.
Students majoring in Political Science must take introductory 100-level courses in three of the following four subdivisions: Theory and Methodology (106), Comparative Politics (121 or 143), International Relations (132), and American Politics (173). These courses should be taken during the student's first two years of study.
All majors in political science must distribute their major courses in at least four of the following five subdivisions.
No more than 6 credits of independent study (POLS 299) or field work (POLS 297), or a combination of the two, may be counted toward the 24 credit requirement for the major, except by permission of the Department Head.
Political Science Minor
Students must complete one introductory 100-level course selected from among POLS 106; 121 or 132; 143; or 173. At least one additional 100-level course is recommended. Students must complete at least 15 credits of course work at the 200's level(or higher, with consent of instructor and minor advisor). Political Science 297 and 299 may not be counted toward the minor. Courses must be selected from at least three of the five disciplinary subdivisions.
The Department advises students planning to major in psychology to secure a background in the basic sciences and relevant social sciences, preferably before the junior year. Suggested courses include Biology 100, 102, or 107; Anthropology 106 or 220; and Sociology 107. If at all possible, majors should take Statistics 110 (or 100) by their third semester.
The following core curriculum is required of all Psychology majors.
Students who wish to receive a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Psychology must do the following: (1) satisfy the general Bachelor of Science requirements, and (2) satisfy a modified version of the major requirements for Psychology. In the modified version, the major requirements are expanded such that (i) three courses must be taken from Group III of the core curriculum, and (ii) two laboratory courses must be taken. Laboratory courses include Psychology 210W, 215W, 242, 244, 263, and 267.
Psychology Minor
The requirements for the Minor in Psychology are at least 16 credits of 200 level Psychology courses that include
The Institute for Puerto Rican and Latino Studies Studies has a flexible interdisciplinary research and teaching program devoted to the comparative, critical analysis of ethnicity and the quest for knowledge about Puerto Ricans on the island and the mainland, as well as about Mexican Americans, and other peoples of Latin American descent in the United States. Although the primary focus of the program is upon the majority segments of the Latino population who, like Puerto Ricans and Mexican Americans, are U.S. citizens, attention is also given to that segment which due to recent immigration or other reasons has not met the formal requirements for U.S. citizenship.
Although not offering a degree program, the Institute does offer a track in Latino Social Science Studies at the undergraduate level as well as several graduate courses, primarily in the fields of public opinion, communication sciences, political science, education, history, anthropology, and family studies. These offerings, whose common thread is Puerto Rican/Latino identity interwoven with a comparative analysis of ethnicity, gender, and class, are designed to reflect individual student interests or complement his or her major.
The Institute's Program prepares students to employ critical learning in their private lives, in their public roles as citizens, and as members of the labor force, and enhances their ability to work with and for peoples of Puerto Rican or Latin American descent to promote the development of fairness and equity in public policy as well as multicultural diversity in state, regional, and national life. Puerto Rican and Latino Studies promotes critical, comparative, interdisciplinary thinking and thus fascilitates a wider variety of professional or other career choices for students.
Puerto Rican/Latino Studies Track
The track in Puerto Rican/Latino Studies enables students, regardless of their major or minor, to develop an understanding of an important but often neglected segment of U.S. society and culture. This program provides an interdisciplinary base to students interested in acquiring general and specific knowledge of Puerto Rican/Latino society and culture as a supplement to a variety of possible undergraduate majors.
Students wishing to specialize in Puerto Rican/Latino Studies are required to take 12 credits from the following courses:
For further information about Puerto Rican and Latino Studies, contact the Institute for Puerto Rican and Latino Studies, Beach Hall, Room 413, (860) 486-3997.
Students from all programs and colleges are encouraged to elect courses in sociology. A major in sociology opens many doors for careers and is excellent background for advanced training in a variety of other fields. Four courses are required of all majors: Sociology 205, 230, 270, and either 268, 269, or 260. The remaining 12 credits of 200-level sociology courses, with the guidance of a faculty advisor, may be chosen either freely or from one of five areas of sub-concentration: Social Science Background for Careers in Social Services (social work, health care, teaching, counseling); Background for Careers in Business, Management, Advertising, and Personnel; Background for Careers in Law and Public Policy; Background for Careers in Urban Affairs and Community Development. Sociology majors interested in careers in criminal justice are advised to complete program requirements for the University's undergraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice. The Handbook for Majors in Sociology, available in the Department of Sociology, contains lists of courses in these sub-concentrations and oth