Course Descriptions
Leadership Development Course Descriptions
Liberal Studies 300
Research and Report Writing in the Social Sciences (3 credits)
The student gathers and analyzes data and puts the data into a readable narrative, thus strengthening skills essential to the world of business. A family history or portrait is the vehicle for furthering the skills of research, analysis and writing. This vehicle is examined in terms of cultural, economic, political and religious environments. Among other items, it also includes social patterns and mores, migration, genealogy and ethnicity.
Liberal Studies 301
Contemporary Global Issues and Problems (3 credits)
This course explores the ethical and religious dimensions of several global challenges in contemporary international society: (1) the expanding role of religion as a motivation for violence as well as a force for justice and peace; (2) the increasing deterioration of the global environment; (3) international efforts to protect human rights in countries where there is systematic oppression or genocide; and (4) the chronic gap in wealth between rich and poor nations.
Liberal Studies 302
The Computer in Contemporary Society (3 credits)
Examines the history, operation, economics, and applications of computer technology and its significance in contemporary life. Consideration is given to a careful description of present technology and what some of the main decisions are that must be made if humanity is to utilize and control this technology.
Liberal Studies 303
Ethnicity and Demography in Wisconsin (3 credits)
Examines the historical influence of varied ethnic settlements, cultural diversity, changing economic foundations, and population shifts upon the government and politics of Wisconsin with particular reference to the Fox Valley. Elective.
Liberal Studies 304
Research and Report Writing in the Humanities (3 credits)
Enables the student to develop increased skills in using library resources for exploring a specific topic in the humanities, in taking notes on the data, and in evaluating such data. Students are expected to refine writing skills, and present the results of their research in a substantial paper written in a form suitable for publication.
Liberal Studies 305
Religious and Ethical Values in Contemporary Society I (3 credits)
Introduces students to the significance of religious convictions in the genesis, development, and modern transformation of American values. Through examination of various religious critiques of contemporary values, we isolate areas of moral concern, and suggest strategies for decision-making.
Liberal Studies 306
Popular Culture in the Mass Media (3 credits)
This course will examine key issues related to popular culture and its representation in different media. In an attempt to focus and organize our consideration of this rather nebulous phenomenon, we will approach the course theme in three ways. First, we will discuss some narratives about popular culture. Second, we will then study the role of narrative in popular culture (and its importance in how we make sense of the world in general). Third, we will explore a couple of the most prevalent "pop culture" genres such as a gangster film, a mystery novel and others.
Liberal Studies 307
Encountering the Arts (3 credits)
An interdisciplinary study of the arts in which relationships are drawn among music, visual arts, literature and drama. Students gain insights into the various artistic expressions of human feeling--their distinctive relationships and individual qualities. Significant cultural patterns that have influenced the arts in the Western and non-Western world are explored. Elective.
Liberal Studies 309
Development of Scientific Ideas (3 credits)
Encourages analysis and understanding of the ideas that have profoundly effected scientific developments over the last two thousand years. Examines the growing ability of scientists to understand the phenomenon of nature; specifically, it peruses seminal ideas in astronomy, biology, physics and other sciences. Addresses broad scientific ideas and notes their practical significance for man.
Liberal Studies 310
Laboratory Experiences in Science (3 credits)
Provides students with the opportunity to perform interdisciplinary, independent experiments in the physical sciences. Purposes of such activity will be to recreate the methodology and processes of the scientific method and explore its relevance in today's society.
Liberal Studies 311
Environmental Issues (3 credits)
Introduces students to the complexities of environmental problems confronting today's global citizens. Focuses on a series of environmental issues that are, and have been, difficult to resolve. Readings, audiovisual materials, and discussions on three or more environmental controversies are employed to illustrate the many aspects of each issue that should be explored. Students investigate a problem of their choice for presentation to the class in written or oral form. A field trip extends ecological background and provides additional information on a major issue addressed in the course.
Liberal Studies 315
Managing People at Work (3 credits)
This course focuses on the human resource management component of the management process. The course includes both theory and application related to effectively managing individuals in their work roles. (Alternate course: BUS 352)
Liberal Studies 335
Transformative Leadership (3 credits)
Transformative leadership is a creative, passionate and authentic expression of service inspired by the leadership wisdom of Bennis, Drucker, Greenleaf, Hellebein, Hooks, and Quinn. In this course learners will have the opportunity to identify and develop individually unique and effective leadership styles and approaches. Through a combination of inventories, reflection and experiential activities learners will explore their passion and what constrains their leadership as well as how they impact and influence others. Learners also will observe and analyze the leadership styles of leaders with whom they associate.
Liberal Studies 336
Collaborative Leadership Dynamics (3 credits)
This course is designed to introduce a theoretical framework for collaborative leadership and the elements of group dynamics that support and maintain its success. Opportunities to integrate theory and practice will be provided to assist learners in understanding how groups function and how they, as leaders, impact the ability/behaviors of the group for solving personal, interpersonal, group and organizational problems.
Liberal Studies 337
Conflict Resolution: Mediation, Negotiation and Arbitration (3 credits)
This course covers the study and practice of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes and techniques. Special emphasis is placed on the use of ADR to deal with conflicts and issues in community and civic contexts.
Liberal Studies 405
Project Planning & Implementation (3 credits)
This course include the “science” of initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing projects, following the proven structure developed by the internationally-recognized Project Management Institute. Topics also cover the “art” of time management, conflict resolution and effective communication and partnerships – methods and behaviors associated with successful projects. Project planning and implementation also uses a series of case studies, problems and papers designed to help students demonstrate their ability to apply course topics to business settings.
Liberal Studies 410
Capstone Seminar (3 credits)
Designed as a culminating or "capstone" learning experience, this course focuses on the integration of concepts and ideas from previous Liberal Studies courses. Prerequisite: Liberal Studies 304.
Liberal Studies 411 & 412
Senior Research Project (6 credits)
With guidance of a mentor or adjunct faculty member and the instructor, the student selects a topic for a research project, conducts the appropriate research and presents the conclusions in an acceptable format and style. The successful completion of the research project is contingent upon the utilization of the skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. Upper-level thought processes - analysis, synthesis, summarization and drawing inclusions - are assumed. A Project Review and Approval Schedule identifies performance evaluation from topic selection to completion of the research project. Prerequisites: Liberal Studies 300 and Liberal Studies 304
Political Science 350
Political Behavior (3 credits)
Focus on mass political behavior, the civic activities undertaken by the general public. Includes a look at public opinion, survey research, political participation and attitudes, campaigns and elections, and citizenship.
Political Science 394
Community Power Systems (3 credits)
Explores the issue of how political and economic power is distributed and maintained at the local level.
Public Administration 364
Administrative Leadership & Behavior (3 credits)
Leadership criteria, motivations and possibilities at different organizational levels in America; tools of leadership for promoting organizational goals; analysis of effects on societal, political and bureaucratic structures on a cross-cultural basis.
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Lynn Brandt
(UW Oshkosh)
Student Services Coordinator
C: (920) 637-0028
O: (920) 424-0029
Kelly Hudson
(UW Washington County)
Associate Student Services Coordinator
C: (920) 637-0001
O: (920) 424-0234 (UW Oshkosh)
O: (920) 924-6325 (UW-Washington County)
Jennifer Stelter
Program Adviser
(920) 424-1021