Liberal studies courses are typically interdisciplinary in nature. They are designed by individual members of the faculty, rather than by academic departments, in order to explore topics or areas of interest which involve a number of the traditional areas of study. In a few cases, experimental inquiries and special interests not represented elsewhere in the curriculum are offered by permission of the dean of the College on a non-recurring basis.
Course Descriptions
LS 100 The Liberal Arts Experience. Designed to orient new students to the concepts, goals, and processes of liberal arts education. Consideration will be given to the expectations and opportunities which distinguish the particular educational experience of Mount Union College. Meets two hours per week until mid-semester, and is required of all entering freshmen. 1 Sem. Hr. {GenEd: Old = K; New = I,A.}
LS 101 Pathways. LS 101 is an interdisciplinary honors seminar for freshmen and sophomores. The topic varies but will be a complex issue or theme that requires the perspective of more than one academic discipline for effective analysis and synthesis. This course will satisfy an All-College Liberal Arts requirement that varies with the topic. Honors in liberal studies credit is granted for a grade of at least B+. Limited to freshmen and sophomores with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.30, or who rank in the top 10 percent of their high school class and have combined SAT scores of at least 1200, or composite ACT score of at least 27, or permission of the Honors Review Board. 3 Sem. Hrs.
LS 106 Race, Culture and American Society. An examination of the racial and ethnic diversity in American society for an understanding of American culture. This course will look at such issues as the history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans, African-Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, and Euro-Americans as a framework for understanding America, from its beginnings, as a pluralistic, multi-ethnic, and diverse society. The influence of class and gender on formulations of ethnic and racial identity will also be considered. 3 Sem. Hrs. {GenEd: Old = D5; New = II,D,2.}
LS 115 The Oceans. An interdisciplinary course surveying the biological, chemical, physical, and geological phenomena that are characteristic of the oceans. Man's interactions with the oceans, e.g., economic resources and technology, maritime law, pollution, fisheries, etc. are also discussed. Three class hours per week. 3 Sem. Hrs. {GenEd: Old = G; New = II,B,2.}
LS 199 Special Topics in Liberal Studies. See All-College 199 course description on page 101.
LS 250 Study/Travel Seminar. A course which allows a student to participate in study/travel programs in other countries for international intercultural purposes. An agreement among the student, the dean of the College, and an assigned faculty member will enumerate credit, educational objectives, and the requirements to satisfy them. Enrollment in the course requires approval of the contract by the Academic Policies Committee prior to initiation of the program. Graded only on an S/U basis. Credit variable, 1-15 Sem. Hrs.
LS 300 The Nature of Science. Study of some aspects of the origins, development, and social impact of scientific concepts, methods, and institutions in the modern era, as discussed by scientists and others. Major emphasis will be given to the increasingly massive and powerful science establishment of recent decades, and its interaction with public policy and with various aspects of our culture. Prerequisites: EH 100, CO 101. Not open to freshmen. 3 Sem. Hrs. {GenEd: Old = G.}
LS 317 Field Experience in Marine Science. Participation in an extended field trip to a marine science laboratory or marine environment. For students enrolled in (or having completed) one of: LS 115, BI 220, BI 280, GY 320, or GY 325. The trip may occur outside the normal academic calendar. A fee is charged. Graded on an S/U basis. Participation is limited, selective, and requires permission of the instructor. Registration occurs during the semester following completion of the course. This course does not fulfill the laboratory portion of the All-College Liberal Arts requirements. 1 Sem. Hr.
LS 399 Special Topics in Liberal Studies. See All-College 399 course description on page 102.
LS 401 Crossroads. LS 401 is an interdisciplinary honors seminar for juniors and seniors. The topic varies but will be a complex issue or theme that requires the perspective of more than one academic discipline for effective analysis and synthesis. This course will satisfy an All-College Liberal Arts requirement that varies with the topic. Honors in liberal studies credit is granted for a grade of at least B+. Limited to juniors and seniors with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.30, or permission of the Honors Review Board. 3 Sem. Hrs.