Undergraduate Bulletin 2010-2011 Table of Contents
BACHELOR OF ARTS AND
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE PROGRAMS
VIII. DEPARTMENTAL AND
INTERDISCIPLINARY PROGRAMS
THE AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES PROGRAM
African American Studies is a vibrant and vital field of critical inquiry. The African American Studies Program is consistent with the mission of Georgetown University as it seeks also through its “commitment to justice and the common good” to engender “serious and sustained discourse among people of different faiths, cultures, and beliefs [in order to promote] intellectual, ethical, and spiritual understanding,” particularly concerning African Americans in the United States. A minor in African American Studies allows undergraduate students to examine from numerous disciplinary perspectives the experiences and contributions of people of African descent in the United States. The minor affords students the opportunity to broaden their academic experience by studying the historical, cultural, economic, political, religious, literary, and social contributions and developments of African Americans. The minor’s interdisciplinary methodology encourages students to make connections and think critically and creatively across traditional disciplinary boundaries. The Program is especially appropriate for students who are interested in pluralism, social justice, and diversity as well as for students preparing to work and to interact with diverse communities and cultures in the United States and abroad in such fields as education, business, government, journalism, health care, law and public policy. Through its rigorous academic offerings, the minor helps to prepare students for entry into an increasingly diverse work force and society.
African American Studies MinorStudents electing the minor program in African American Studies must successfully complete six (6) courses, totaling a minimum of eighteen (18) credit hours. More specifically, the minor is comprised of one required course, one course from each of the three concentrations of study, and two electives. Eligible courses deeply and significantly examine African American culture, history and experience in the United States. Eligible courses also include courses engaging African culture, history, people, and politics as pretext and context as well as courses exploring the Black Atlantic diaspora. Students are encouraged to select at least nine hours of course work specifically related to African American experience in the United States. To minor in African American Studies, a student must successfully complete:
- One required course: Introduction to African American Studies (AFAM-101)
- One course in History and Culture (HC)
- One course in Literatures, Languages, and the Arts (LLA)
- One course in Behavioral and Social Inquiry (BSI)
- Two elective courses from eligible courses
Required course: Introduction to African American Studies (AFAM-101)
This introductory course, both intensive and extensive, provides an interdisciplinary overview of the important themes and topics central to the study of the experiences of African Americans in the United States. This course also provides the theoretical foundation for the further study of African American experience. Students will learn about the development of the discipline by exploring theoretical questions, methodological approaches, and major themes that have shaped the study of African American life and culture in the United States (offered fall semesters only)
Electives courses (from which minor distribution may be completed as defined parenthetically)
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Memory and Orality in the Literature of Francophone Africa (LLA) |
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Language Education and Development in Francophone Africa (HC, LLA) |
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History of African Jihads in the Old and New Worlds (HC, LLA) |
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What is an American? Cultural Identity in the United States (HC) |
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Questioning Inequalities: Gender, Race, Class, and Sexuality (BSI) |
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The American Studies major seeks, through the relation and interaction of traditional disciplines in the humanities and social sciences, to develop an integrated and intensive understanding of the social, historical, material, and aesthetic aspects of American cultures.
American Studies majors are required to complete 14 courses for the major. All students take the four semester sequence of American Civilization, normally begun in the fall term of their sophomore year and completed by the spring term of their junior year. In their senior year they take the thesis seminar in the fall and spring. To supplement the American Civilization courses, each student in the major is required to take two courses in American history, preferably the two-semester sequence “Studies in United States History” (HIST-180–181).
Each student is also expected to complete a major concentration of six upper division electives drawn from disciplines related to the program. The concentration is developed by each student in consultation with the faculty and should represent an interdisciplinary approach to an area of primary interest to the student.
Senior Thesis (AMST-304–305) This is a year-long seminar which all American Studies must complete to graduate. In the context of the seminar, each student pursues a topic in depth. Students have the option of drafting an original essay of approximately 50–75 pages, or completing a significant project, such as a short documentary film, website, or a digital story. The thesis is interdisciplinary in nature and relates primarily to the student’s area of concentration. As part of the thesis project, all students will participate in an informal instructional workshop, which will begin meeting as early as CIV I.
(For course listings for American Studies see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
ANTHROPOLOGYThe Department of Anthropology offers a major and a minor in the field of cultural Anthropology.
Courses that are cross-listed with other departments do not automatically count as Anthropology courses. Students should check with the Department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies.
All majors must review their course selections each semester with their advisors in the Department. Students can choose their advisor, or the Department will assign them an advisor.
Anthropology Major Students majoring in Anthropology are required to take ten courses in the Department, including four core courses and six electives. The four core courses required are: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, Doing Anthropological Fieldwork, The Ethnographic Imagination, and Anthropological Theory. The introductory course may be taken at another university. All other core courses must be taken at Georgetown.
Majors are required to take six anthropology electives, at least half of them at Georgetown (courses taught by anthropologists in other GU departments are accepted as anthropology electives). Three electives may be taken during study abroad.
Anthropology Minor Requirements for the minor are six courses--three core courses: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology; Doing Anthropological Fieldwork; and The Ethnographic Imagination and three anthropology electives.
We strongly recommend that students take Introduction to Cultural Anthropology prior to enrolling in other departmental courses. Students must take an anthropology course before enrolling in Doing Anthropological Fieldwork. Only seniors may enroll in Anthropological Theory. The introductory course may be taken at another university. All other core courses must be taken at Georgetown.
All electives must be anthropology courses or taught by an anthropologist in another GU department. See above list for electives.
Anthropology Major Requirements- Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
- Doing Anthropological Fieldwork
- The Ethnographic Imagination
- Anthropological Theory
- African Cultural Modernities
- African Cultures in the Americas
- African Culture and Foreign Policy
- Anthropological Perspectives on Gender
- The Anthropology of the Arab World
- Anthropology Through Film
- Anthropology and the Historical Imagination
- Anthropology and Social Engagement
- Anthropology of Work in the New Economy
- Autoethnography: Subaltern Writings on Latin American Culture
- Class and Culture in America
- Class, Culture and Power in America
- Class, Culture, and Race in America
- Consuming Drug Foods: Chocolate, Sugar, and Coffee
- Culture and Globalization
- Development and Applied Anthropology
- Ethnicity and Nationalism
- The Ethnography of Modernity in Latin America
- Europe in the Anthropological Imagination
- Issues in Post-Soviet Soceity
- Medical Anthropology
- Migration, Islam, and Transnational Cultures in Europe
- Multiculturalism and Urban Life in Australia
- On the Move: Transnational Migration
- The Political Anthropology of the Russian Federation
- Political and Legal Anthropology
- Popular Culture in the Arab World
- Post-Soviet Peoples and Cultures: Asia
- Post-Soviet Peoples and Cultures: Europe
- Race and Ethnicity in Latin America
- Religion, Identity, and Social Change
- Topics in the Anthropology of France
- Urban Anthropology: Culture of the City
- War Ethnography
- Women and Gender in the Arab World
- Women, Work, and the Globalized Economy
Core Required Courses:
(For course listings for Anthropology see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
ART AND ART HISTORYThe Art and Art History Department offers majors in Art History and Art (with concentrations in Drawing/Printmaking, Painting, Sculpture, and Digital Art/Photography).
ArtMajor A major in Art (Drawing/Printmaking, Painting, Sculpture, and Digital Art/Photography) consists of eleven courses; ten courses in the studio discipline (including a one credit Senior Project) and one course in art history. An Art major’s specific course requirements depend on the area of concentration (See Required Courses). Art majors have the option of taking a second art history course in place of one of their studio art electives, with permission of the department. All Art majors are required to take the one credit Senior Seminar course in order to produce portfolios of work reflecting their capabilities in their declared area of concentration.
Art HistoryMajor A major in Art History consists of ten courses; nine in Art History, and one studio course. ARTH-101, 102 or an AP score of 4 or 5 are prerequisites for advanced courses.
Minor A minor in Art History or Art consists of six courses in that discipline. It is possible to major in one discipline and minor in the other. Minors who are not majors in either Art or Art History may take one course in the other discipline for credit toward the minor, with approval. For both minors, at least four courses must be taken within the department.
Required Courses for the Majors- 1 Design: A Visual Foundation
- 1 Drawing I
- 1 Art History (ARTH-101 Ancient to Medieval, ARTH-102 Renaissance to Modern, or ARTH-104 Modern Art)
- 1 Senior Project: Seminar
- 2 Studio Art Electives (or 1 Studio Art and 1 Art History with department permission.)
- 5 Courses in one Concentration (Students must choose one concentration from four areas below.)
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Drawing/Printmaking Concentration:
5 classes from ARTS-110–129, 210–229, 310–329, 410–429 -
Sculpture Concentration:
5 classes from ARTS-003, 140–149, 240–249, 340–349, 440–449 -
Painting Concentration:
5 classes from ARTS-210–219, 150–159, 250–259, 350–359, 450–459 -
Digital Art/Photography Concentration:
5 classes from ARTS-123, 130–139, 160–169, 230–239, 260–269, 330–339, 360–369, 430–439, 460–469
- 2 Introductory courses, ARTH-101, 102
- 4 Introductory or Intermediate (ARTH 100–200 level) courses from at least three of the following groups: Ancient/Medieval; Renaissance/Baroque; Modern/American; and Non-European art.
- 1 Studio Art course
- 3 Advanced (400 level) courses. At least two courses must be art history seminars. ARTH-470 (Museum Internship) or ARTH-490 (Senior Thesis) or an approved AMUS or cross-listed seminar may replace the third art history seminar with prior permission of supervising professor.
- 6 Art History courses:
- 1 course dealing with art before 1600
- 1 course dealing with art after 1600
- 4 other art history or approved cross-listed courses. One elective may be an art course, with advisor’s approval.
(For course listings for Art and Art History see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
BIOCHEMISTRYAn undergraduate major in Biochemistry is offered by the Chemistry Department. Please refer to the Chemistry section in this Bulletin.
BIOLOGYThe majors in Biology are designed to educate students in the breadth of subject matter encompassed by the biological sciences, including advances in knowledge at the forefront of this discipline. The Department of Biology offers four majors: Biology, Biology of Global Health, Environmental Biology, and Neurobiology. Graduates will be well prepared for advanced study in biological sciences, medicine and public health, business, science policy or law, as well as professional careers in education and biotechnology.
Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Credit For students who choose any of the majors from the Department of Biology, we accept credit from one of the following: AP Biology Exam, AP Environmental Sciences Exam, or IB Biology. For an AP score of 5, students receive two credits that apply to the major and a 4-credit College elective course. For an AP score of 4, students receive one credit that applies to the major and a 3-credit College elective course. No credit is awarded for an AP score of 3. For the IB program, we accept credits from the Higher Level Biology but not the Standard Level. For a score of 6 or 7, students receive two credits that apply to the major and a 4-credit College elective course. No credit is awarded for an IB score of 5 or below.
Advising All majors are assigned a faculty member from the Department of Biology as an advisor to provide curricular and career advice. Entering first-year students with a declared major in Biology will receive their advisor’s contact information during the summer. Transfer students should see the Director of Undergraduate Students & Studies to obtain an advisor. After acceptance into one of the specialized majors, students may be assigned a new advisor in that discipline area. Students are encouraged to plan their curricula through regular consultations with their faculty advisors.
The First and Second Years--Entering the Program and Choosing the Major
Students enter the program as Biology majors, and the application to the specialized majors occurs during the second year. During the first-year, in addition to courses in the liberal arts, students enroll in Foundations in Biology, the First-Year Seminar in Biology, General Chemistry, Calculus I, and either Probability and Statistics or Calculus II.
During the fall term of the second year, students can elect to remain as Biology majors or can apply to one of the three specialized majors: Biology of Global Health, Environmental Biology or Neurobiology. The application process consists of an essay and an academic plan that lays out the courses the student desires to take to fulfill the specific requirements of the major.
Second-year students who are undeclared or are considering changing majors may also apply to any of the majors offered through the Department during the fall term and are generally not at a disadvantage relative to other students. Interested transfer students or third-year students can also apply at the same time as the second-year students, but they must pay close attention to the portion of the application that addresses how the student plans to complete the coursework for the specialized major.
Learning Goals and ResearchLearning Goals The Department of Biology has developed ten learning goals for our majors, outlined below and detailed on the Department web site. The first five learning goals are grouped as Insight into the Process and Product of Science. These have a focus on the process of science to emphasize our belief that the goal of a biology education is to enable students to make creative use of their knowledge. The second five learning goals are grouped as Fundamental Biological Concepts. Two themes arise from the fundamental biological concepts. The first theme is that all of biology operates under constraints defined by our understanding of math, physics, and chemistry. It is therefore essential that majors have a strong foundational understanding of these fields, of both their concepts and their "ways of knowing". Secondly, all of biology operates under the constraints of the mechanisms of evolution. It is therefore essential that majors have a strong foundational understanding of the theories, evidence, and mechanism of evolution.
- Integrating new knowledge into existing intellectual frameworks.
- Engaging with scientific inquiry.
- Representing and interpreting data in quantitative and statistically meaningful forms.
- Communicating scientific understanding in oral and written forms.
- Appreciating the epistemology of science.
- Understanding the organization of molecular, cellular, organismal and ecological systems.
- Appreciating evolution as a framework for understanding biological systems.
- Understanding the flow of biological information.
- Working with the flow of energy and matter in biological systems.
- Understanding the interdependence and interactions within biological systems and their emergent properties.
Research Intensive Senior Experience (RISE) The Department of Biology encourages its majors to engage deeply in the subject of biology either by conducting research or by investigating applications through internships. Starting with the class of 2012, students can opt to conduct a research project through the RISE program that will earn credit towards each of the majors offered from the Department of Biology. Majors have the choice of (1) conducting an independent laboratory, field or computational research project by selecting BIOL-321/322, (2) a critical literature-based analysis of a specific topic in biology by selecting BIOl-311/312, or (3) a three-semester program that begins in the spring of the third year for teaching biology and conducting classroom research in the community by selecting BIOL-331/332.
Many students begin research before the senior year, some as early as their first year. Students who start their research early can earn up to four credits that apply towards the major (BIOL-300, Research Tutorial) and up to four additional credits that apply as College elective credits but do not count towards the major (BIOL-304, Elective Research Tutorial). With approval of the Department and obtaining a Department research advisor, research may be conducted in laboratories outside the Department of Biology, including other departments within the College, laboratories at the GU Medical Center or in the greater DC area, including the National Institutes of Health, the Smithsonian Institution, etc.
Study Abroad Majors from the Department of Biology can study abroad and transfer credits to the majors. All majors are encouraged to consider building a summer or semester abroad into their undergraduate programs. Although this is not a specific requirement, the perspective gained from the international experience is of value to all of the programs. Students should plan early and discuss their plans with their academic advisor and the Office of International Programs.
Comprehensive Exam To evaluate both individual student performance and programmatic efficacy, students are required to participate in several assessments throughout their major. All majors will take a subject exam during their sophomore year and a comprehensive exam during their senior year.
Georgetown Howard Hughes Undergraduate Research Scholars Program The Department administers a research-intensive four-year program that provides advanced course work and extensive research opportunities. The program is offered through the cooperative efforts of research scientists in the College and Medical School with funding provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Science majors from Biology, Chemistry, and Physics with interest in careers in research are encouraged to contact Prof. Joseph Neale or Prof. Maria Donoghue for further information about the Georgetown Howard Hughes Undergraduate Research Scholars Program as early as possible.
The Pre-medical Program Pre-medicine is a program of study, not a degree. Each of the majors offered through the Department of Biology provides students with a strong foundation in science and a significant overlap with the pre-med program requirements. In general, medical schools require a year of college math and a year of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry and physics, each with lab. The year of biology can be Foundations in Biology I and II (BIOL-103, 104); or Foundations in Biology I with a second course such as Biochemistry (BIOL-151) Genetics (BIOL-152), or Microbiology (BIOL-364).
The Biology MajorMajor The Biology major provides a comprehensive perspective on all aspects of our biological world, including ecology, evolutionary biology, molecular and cell biology. This major allows students to have the greatest latitude in choosing courses of their interest across the breadth of biology or to concentrate their studies in an area of interest.
The Biology major consists of biology, mathematics, general chemistry, and additional sciences. After the first-year courses, students enroll in intermediate-level distribution courses from three bins: (1) Molecules, (2) Cell and Systems, and (3) Populations. Students must take at least one course from each bin and complete them by the end of the third year. Students choose elective courses from the courses offered by the Department to complete the major. Students may opt to obtain a concentration in an area of biology or to examine the interface between biology and other disciplines for credit (described below).
Concentrations within the Biology Major Students have the option to pursue a program of study within the major leading to concentrations in either of two areas: Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology or Ecology, Evolution and Behavioral Biology. A concentration requires the completion of six elective courses in the area of concentration and RISE may count as one of the six courses. Courses that apply to each area of concentration can be found in a list on the Department’s web site and are noted in the course’s description on Explore. Each concentration should be devised during careful consultation with a faculty advisor. The area of the concentration will appear on the student’s transcript.
One-credit option Students may apply one credit of one non-biology course to the major when the course explores the interface between biology and another discipline, for example in ethics or public policy. Courses must be approved in advance by the Department; a list of previously approved courses and an application for approval for new courses can be found on the Department website.
Courses for the Biology MajorRequired Introductory Biology Courses (21 credits)
Bin courses should be completed by the end of the third year.
- Foundations in Biology I and II (BIOL-103 and -104)
- First-year Seminar in Biology (BIOL-101)
- Molecules Bin, one course: Biochemistry (BIOL-151) or Genetics (BIOL-152)
- Cells and Systems Bin, one course: Developmental Cell Biology (BIOL-170) or Physiology with lab (BIOL-208/209)
- Populations Bin, one course: Ecology (BIOL-180) or Evolutionary Processes (BIOL-251)
Biology Elective Courses (21 credits)
Additional elective courses offered by the Department of Biology will be taken for a total of 44 credits. If a student takes two courses from a bin, the second course counts as an elective. Research tutorial and the RISE program can count as elective credits.
Additional Required Science Courses for the Biology Major (26 credits)
- Calculus I (MATH-035) and either Probability and Statistics (MATH-040 or MATH-140) or Calculus II (MATH-036)
- General Chemistry with laboratory (CHEM-001/-009 and CHEM-002/-010)
- 8 credits of additional science courses: Organic Chemistry with lab (CHEM-115/-117, CHEM-116/-118), Principles of Physics (PHYS-101, 102) or Mechanics (PHYS-151) and Vibrations, Fluids & Waves (PHYS-152), Computer Science I and II (COSC-071, 072) and Mathematical Methods of Computer Science (COSC-127) or Advanced Programming (COSC-175) or Introduction to Databases (COSC-380), or Introduction to Environmental Science (STIA-102)
A minor in Biology requires a minimum of five Biology courses and eighteen credits, excluding BIOL-101. Biology courses designed for non-majors cannot be included. Foundations in Biology I and II are required. The one-credit option course credits may not be applied to the credit requirements for the minor.
The Biology of Global Health MajorMajor An underlying motivation for the study of science is the impact that basic discoveries have on human health across the globe. This major examines the biology behind global health concerns today and includes coursework and research spanning the basic laboratory and quantitative sciences, while integrating perspectives from policy, economics, ethics, and culture. Georgetown is especially strong in infectious- and genetic-disease research and is at the forefront of interdisciplinary work in application of policy, law, and ethics to global health issues.
Students interested in this major typically enter the program as Biology majors. Students opting for the Biology of Global Health major will apply to the program in the fall of second year.
In spring of the second year, students take Gateway: Introduction to Biology of Global Health. Other required Biology courses for the major include Bioinformatics or Population Genetics, and Senior Seminar. Required courses in departments outside of Biology include General Chemistry, one semester of Organic Chemistry, Calculus I, an introductory course in Probability and Statistics, and a course in applied statistics. In addition, students must take two courses from a diverse course selection that addresses issues at the intersection of global health and ethics, policy, etc. Students should plan their program in close consultation with their faculty advisors to ensure that they have taken any prerequisites necessary for desired upper level courses. Biology courses successfully completed while studying abroad may count toward the credit requirements for the major in Biology of Global Health when specifically approved by the Department in advance.
Courses for the Biology of Global Health MajorRequired Biology Core Courses (17 credits)
- First-year Seminar in Biology (BIOL-101)
- Foundations in Biology I and II (BIOL-103 and 104)
- Gateway: Introduction to Biology of Global Health (BIOL-194)
- Bioinformatics (BIOL-379) or Population Genetics (BIOL-367)
- Senior Seminar (BIOL-401)
Additional Required Science Courses (26 credits)
- General Chemistry I and II (CHEM-001/009 and CHEM-002/010)
- Organic Chemistry I (CHEM-115/117)
- Calculus I (MATH-035)
- Probability and Statistics (MATH-040) or Introduction to Mathematical Statistics (MATH-140)
- Epidemiology and Public Health (BIST-505) or Applied Statistical Methods (MATH-240) or Ecological Analysis (BIOL-386)
Biology Elective Courses (7 courses for 25 credits)
At least 1 course must be taken in each of the three sections; students may replace one of the 6 courses with Research Tutorial (BIOL-300) for up to 4 credits and may take RISE for an additional 4 credits.
- Biochemistry (BIOL-151)
- Genetics (BIOL-152)
- Neurobiology (BIOL-195)
- Mammalian Physiology (BIOL-208)
- Human Genetics (BIOL-352)
- Dynamic Processes in Biological Physics (BIOL-359)
- Cell Biology (BIOL-363)
- Cell Biology of Cancer (BIOL-369)
- Developmental Biology (BIOL-373)
- Molecular Biology (BIOL-390)
- Structures Behind Signaling (BIOL-391)
- Ecology (BIOL-180)
- Evolutionary Processes (BIOL-251)
- Global Climate Change (BIOL-268)
- Forest Ecology (BIOL-355)
- Conservation Biology (BIOL-365)
- Population Genetics (BIOL-367), if you fulfilled the Core Course requirement above with BIOL-379
- Ecological Analysis (BIOL-386), if you fulfilled the applied statistics requirement above with BIST-505 or MATH-240
Interdisciplinary Perspectives (minimum of 6 credits)
Students choose two courses from two different intersection areas. Students are cautioned that not all courses are offered every year, courses offered in SNHS and STIA may have limited enrollments for Biology majors, and that some courses have additional prerequisites not explicitly listed here or require permission of the instructor. Courses may be added to these lists as new courses are offered. See the Department website for additional information.
- Bioethics (PHIL-105)
- Ethics: Beginning/Ending Life (PHIL-111)
- Issues in Public Health (PHIL-132)
- Life, Death, and the Law II (PHIL-353)
- Global Health and Ethics (STIA-356)
- Translational Health Science Internship, summer abroad (HSCI-359)
- Maternal/Child Health: Developing Countries (INTH-202)
- Comparative Health Systems (INTH-250)
- Disease Control (INTH-406)
- HIV/AIDS: Who Will Live? Who Shall Pay? What can be done? (INTH-443)
- Global Patterns of Disease (INTH-444)
- Globalization & Healthcare (INTH-445)
- Health in Conflicts, Crises, Disasters (INTH-449)
- AIDS in Africa (STIA-405)
- Women’s Health & Human Rights (STIA-447)
- Women’s Health in the 21st Century (WSTP-235)
- Science Pedagogy: Principles and Practice (BIOL-330)
- International Health Promotion (INTH-142)
- Anthropology and Health (INTH-350)
- Marketing for Public and Nonprofit Organizations (MARK-234)
- Journalism in Science, Environment and Health (STIA-352)
- Science and Society: Grand Challenges (BIOL-361)
- Shaping National Science Policy (BIOL-362)
- Health Care Systems Economics (HESY-170)
- Politics of Health Care (HESY-201)
- Politics of Disease in Europe (HIST-332)
- Poverty and Health: Ensuring Access to Pharmaceuticals in Developing Countries (INTH-408)
- Political Economics of Health/Development (INTH-410)
- Political Economics of Health/Development in Asia, summer abroad (INTH-411)
- Global Health Systems and Politics (STIA-322)
- Global Health and International Migration (STIA-355)
- Senior Seminar: Politics of International Health (STIA-445)
- Health in Conflicts, Crises, and Disasters (STIA-449)
- Innovative Systems: Science/Technology/Health (STIA-463)
- Environmental Economics (ECON-475)
- Environmental Politics (GOVT-354)
- Environmental Sustainability Healthcare: Issues and Challenges (HESY-470)
- Health Impacts of the Environment (HSCI-332)
- Ecology of Global Hunger (INTH-401)
- Health, Environmental Issues, and Development (INTH-440)
- Energy & Environment in China (STIA-379)
- GIS in Environment and Health (STIA-441)
- Health and the Environment (STIA-448)
Major The Environmental Biology Major is a “liberal science” major focused on both the science of the biological, chemical, and geological processes that operate on our planet as well as the ways that humans utilize and alter these processes in cultural, economic, agricultural, and public health systems. This major stresses foundations in biological and quantitative sciences and in scientific communication as a means to understand environmental studies and multifaceted environmental issues.
Students interested in this major typically enter the program as Biology majors; however, transfer and undeclared students are also welcome. Students opting for the Environmental Biology major will apply to the program in the fall of second year, and should enroll ink Genetics (BIOL-152) and Ecology (BIOL-180) during this term.
All students in this major take a set of four core courses—Ecology, Evolutionary Processes, Ecological Analysis, and Introduction to Environmental Science—in their second and third years to establish a foundation in biological concepts. Majors also complete six upper-level courses, three from thematic categories and three selected from all upper-level electives that are approved for the major. Students in the major have a senior seminar capstone course that may be coupled with an in-depth research or internship experience that forms the basis of the RISE program.
Students should plan their program of study in consultation with their faculty advisors. Faculty advisors also help students identify summer or senior research opportunities relevant to environmental biology topics as well as sources of competitive financial support for such activities.
Courses for the Environmental Biology MajorRequired Biology Courses (28 credits)
- First-year Seminar in Biology (BIOL-101)
- Foundations in Biology I and II (BIOL-103, 104)
- Genetics (BIOL-152)
- Ecology (BIOL-180)
- Evolutionary Processes (BIOL-251)
- Ecological Analysis (BIOL-386)
- Senior Seminar in Environmental Biology (BIOL-402)
Distribution Courses (6 courses, 19 credits minimum)
Students must take one course from each of Groups A, B and C, and three other courses from Groups A, B or C or Other Upper-level Electives. Students should note that not all courses are offered every year; courses offered outside of Biology may have limited enrollments for Environmental Biology majors; some courses may have prerequisites not listed here or require permission of the instructor; this list will change over time as course offerings change.
- BIOL-226 Animal Behavior
- BIOL-268 Global Climate Change Ecology
- BIOL-355 Forest Ecology
- BIOL-364 Microbiology
- BIOL-365 Conservation Biology
- BIOL-366 Marine Biology
- BIOL-375 Plant-Animal Interactions
Group B: Environmental, Earth and Quantitative Sciences
- COSC-071 Computer Science I
- STIA-311 Environmental Geomorphology
- STIA-412 Climate Science and Policy
- STIA-441 GIS in Environment and Health
Group C: Populations, Genes and Genomes
- BIOL-300 Research Tutorial
- RISE, one of the three options: Critical Analysis of the Literature (BIOL-311/312), Biological Research (BIOL-321/322) or Teaching Biology (BIOL-331/332)
- BIOL-359 Dynamic Processes in Biological Physics
- BIOL-361 Science and Society: Grand Challenges
- ECON-275 Environmental Economics (NB-requires ECON-001)
- GOVT-354 Environmental Politics
- GOVT-331 Politics of Natural Resources
- HSCI-332 Health Impacts of the Environment
- INTH-401 Ecology of Global Hunger
- INTH-440 Health, Environmental Issues, and Development
- STIA-352 Journalism in Science, Environment & Health
- STIA-374 Environmental Security
- STIA-379 Energy & Environment in China
- STIA-418 Natural Resources and Security
- STIA-419 Energy & Environment in Eurasia
Additional Required Science Courses (21 credits)
- General Chemistry I and II (CHEM-001/009 and CHEM-002/010)
- Calculus I (MATH-035)
- Probability and Statistics (MATH-040) or Introduction to Mathematical Statistics (MATH-140)
- Introduction to Environmental Science (STIA-102)
Major Given our rapidly evolving understanding of brain as mind, study of the nervous system is considered one of the great frontiers in science today. The Neurobiology major is designed to educate students in the foundations of biology and neurobiology while providing opportunities for advanced study on a range of disciplines ranging from cell, molecular and developmental neuroscience to cognitive science and psychology as well as the interfaces of these disciplines.
Students interested in this major typically enter the program as Biology majors. Students opting for the Neurobiology major will apply to the program in the fall of second year. In spring of the second year, students take Neurobiology and, in subsequent years, a series of four additional courses to develop depth in neurobiology.
Courses for the Neurobiology MajorRequired Biology Courses (26 credits)
- First-year Seminar in Biology (BIOL-101)
- Foundations in Biology I and II (BIOL-103 and 104)
- Neurobiology (BIOL-195)
- Synaptic Transmission (BIOL-354)
- Neurodisorders (BIOL-370)
- Developmental Neurobiology (BIOL-376)
- Sensory Systems (BIOL-380)
- Senior Seminar (BIOL-401)
Elective Courses for the Neurobiology Major
(minimum of 21 credits)
Students may choose up to two courses from Group B to count towards the 17 elective credits.
- Biological Chemistry (BIOL-151)
- Genetics (BIOL-152)
- Research Tutorial (BIOL-300)
- RISE, one of two options: Critical Analysis of the Literature (BIOL-311/312) or Biological Research (BIOL-321/322)
- Cell Biology (BIOL-363)
- Genomics and Bioinformatics (BIOL-379)
- Molecular Biology (BIOL-390)
- Advanced Molecular Biology (BIOL-480)
- Introduction to Cognitive Sciences (ICOS-201)
- Functional Neuroimaging and Cognition (NSCI-525)
- Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration (NSCI-556)
- General Psychology (PSYC-001)
- Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC-002)
- Cognitive Neuroscience (PSYC-134)
- Animal Behavior (BIOL-226)
- Sensation and Perception (PSYC-232)
- Clinical Neuropsychology (PSYC-321)
Additional Science and Math Courses (18 credits)
- General Chemistry I and II with laboratory (CHEM-001/-009 and -002/-010)
- Calculus I (MATH-035)
- Calculus II (MATH-036) or Probability and Statistics (MATH-040) or Introduction to Mathematical Statistics (MATH-140)
Please contact Professor Ronda Rolfes, Director of Undergraduate Studies in Biology (rolfesr@georgetown.edu or 202-687-5881), with general questions and questions about the Biology major. For questions on the Biology of Global Health major, please contact Professors Heidi Elmendorf (hge@georgetown.edu) or Anne Rosenwald (rosenwaa@georgetown.edu). For questions on the Environmental Biology major, please contact Professors Matthew Hamilton (hamiltm1@georgetown.edu) or Martha Weiss (weissm@georgetown.edu). For questions on the Neurobiology major, please contact Professors Joseph Neale (nealej@georgetown.edu) or Maria Donoghue (mjv23@georgetown.edu).
(For course listings for Biology see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATIONBeginning with the Class of 2012, the Business Administration Minor in Georgetown College offers students an opportunity to develop business knowledge and skills, in combination with their liberal arts education, to better equip them to contribute to the global economy with creativity, integrity, and a commitment to social responsibility. This minor brings College students together with MSB students in various curricular programs to examine the field of business from diverse intellectual perspectives and more thoroughly understand business in a cultural, political and social context. The minor allows College students to take business courses in the six main areas of accounting, finance, operations, management, marketing, and strategy, ethics, and public policy, as well as in selected liberal arts disciplines that build bridges between a student’s major, minor or other interests and the broad field of business. All students in the Business Administration Minor take a capstone course in Social Responsibility of Business that challenges students to apply their learning in an ethical manner and prepares them to contribute generously to their intellectual and professional communities.
Eligibility and Application for the MinorA College student is eligible to apply for the Business Administration Minor if he/she:
- is in the spring term of sophomore year,
- is completing the final of the 4 prerequisites (see below),
- has a minimum 3.3 cumulative average,
- has a minimum 3.3 average in the prerequisites.
The program is limited to 50 students per class, selected on the basis of an application submitted in spring of their sophomore year. Junior and senior students are not eligible to apply retroactively. The application will consist of an essay outlining the student’s reasons for seeking a minor in Business Administration, with an emphasis on how the minor would complement the student’s other major or minor interests. A committee of deans in the College and MSB will review the applications.
Minor Requirements- Calculus (MATH-035)
- Statistics (MATH-040, OPIM-173, or ECON-121)
- Economics: 2 courses in ECON, only one of which may be completed with AP credit.
- If you have AP credit for both ECON-001 and 002, take ECON-101.
- If you have AP credit for ECON-001 only, take ECON-002 or ECON-003.
- If you have AP credit for ECON-002 only, take ECON-001 or ECON-003.
- If you have no AP credit in ECON, take ECON-001 and 002, or ECON-003 and 101.
6 required courses (plus OPIM-170)
- OPIM-170, Computational Business Modeling (1 cr.; pass/fail)
- ACCT-101, Accounting I
- 4 Advanced Electives: Students must take at least 3 courses in the Business School, excluding ACCT-001 and FINC-150. Students may choose to take a broad-based minor or to specialize in a single area by taking at least 3 electives in one area to gain in-depth knowledge. Students may choose the 3 MSB courses from offerings in:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Management, Leadership, and Innovation
- Marketing
- Operations (Statistics/Analytics; Management Science; Operations Management)
- Strategy, Ethics, and Public Policy
- The fourth elective may be from any of the above MSB areas or from the list of approved College “Bridge Electives,” courses that explore the cultural, political, and social contexts of business. These are designated electives in College departments; the list will be maintained by the College Dean’s Office. Students are encouraged to take as their fourth elective an approved College course in their major or minor discipline, or in another area of interest to enhance the integration of their curricular programs. This course, however, will only count toward the Business Administration minor, and not toward the student’s major or other minors.
- STRT-282, Social Responsibility of Business (Required Capstone Course)
Students are strongly advised to complete all business electives on campus at Georgetown. Students interested in receiving credit toward the Business Administration Minor for courses taken while studying abroad must receive approval from the MSB Dean’s Office. These courses must be taken at MSB-approved study abroad programs. For more information, please visit the Office of International Programs at overseasstudies.georgetown.edu.
Questions about the Business Administration Minor may be directed to Dean Tad Howard.
CATHOLIC STUDIESThe Catholic Church is both a religious institution and a body of believers. Over the centuries its members have involved themselves in the many different worlds in which they live. Artists, workers, philosophers, the poverty stricken, political leaders, tradespeople and farmers: Catholics have tended to interconnect what they believe with what they do. Their impact upon cultures throughout the world has been immense. At the same time, the Catholic Church as a formalized institution has developed a variety of approaches to God, the tangible world, and the nature and meaning of human existence and experience. The story of this church and its members, and the story of their interactions with history, the arts and sciences, human thinking and belief, all these together, in the dynamism and richness of their interplay, form the substance of the human culture which is Catholicism. That culture is the subject matter of Catholic Studies.
The goal of Catholic Studies at Georgetown is to develop an intellectual and academic approach to Catholicism that does justice to its full human reality and integrity as a culture. This goal both explains the reason for having a Catholic Studies Program within a University that identifies itself as a whole as Catholic, and also dictates the interdisciplinary approach that the program takes. Because Catholicism is not just an institution, a set of moral or ritual practices, a body of doctrine, or an individual or even communal experience, but all of these together and more, no one discipline or many disciplines functioning separately can properly understand it as a culture. An approach that not only collects but integrates the findings of the many academic disciplines which offer crucial perspectives on Catholic culture is required. The Catholic Studies Program is the location within the University where Georgetown consciously pursues its proper goal of offering students and faculty the opportunity to pursue an understanding of Catholicism through the type of genuinely interdisciplinary approach that its subject matter requires.
For these same reasons, Catholic Studies at Georgetown strives to be inclusive: it welcomes students and professors from widely divergent intellectual and religious backgrounds. Its goal is not to proselytize or to justify, but to study, explore, and understand.
Minor RequirementsTo earn a minor in Catholic Studies, undergraduate students must complete: the introduction to Catholic Studies course, one additional Catholic Studies core course, four electives within the various academic departments, and the senior capstone course (Readings in Catholic Studies).
Introduction to Catholic StudiesMinor candidates are required to take the introduction to Catholic Studies course: CATH-111 Explorations in Catholic Culture
Core CoursesMinor candidates should take one additional Catholic Studies course. Each course is not offered every semester; students should check availability on the department web site.
ElectivesAfter the completing the first two requirements, minor candidates should work with the program’s Director to select elective courses within the various academic departments--typically with a limit of two courses from any one department--which logically connect with the issues and themes encountered in their Catholic Studies courses. Each semester the Catholic Studies Department compiles a list of courses that meet elective qualifications and can be used to meet the requirement. These “cross-listed” courses can also be found on the website.
Senior Capstone CourseAs a sixth course in the senior year, minor candidates are required to take an independent reading course called Catholic Studies Minor Senior Tutorial. Each student will choose from a list of classic texts from the Catholic tradition. The student will work with this and related texts under the direction of a tutor drawn from faculty members interested in Catholic Studies. Much of the semester’s work will be done individually and independently. However, at certain times during the semester students doing this work will gather to describe to each other what they have been reading individually and to reexamine through discussion some of the topics which they considered in their previous Catholic Studies courses. The program’s Director will chair these discussion sessions. The semester will conclude with each student writing an extended essay on his or her chosen subject.
Please direct all questions or inquiries to the Program Director, Fr. Ryan Maher, S.J., ICC 303.
(For course listings for Catholic Studies see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
CHEMISTRYMajor Majors in Biochemistry and Chemistry are designed to provide sound training in the fundamental principles and basic techniques of the science and to provide interested students with the opportunity for advanced study and research opportunities. The department offers two majors--a B.S. Biochemistry major and a B.S. Chemistry major (certified by the American Chemical Society). Honors programs in both Chemistry and Biochemistry are offered (see below). A minor in Chemistry is also available.
The rigorous undergraduate curriculum prepares students for graduate study in the chemical and/or biochemical sciences at any university, medical school, dental school, or for industrial, teaching, or research careers. Indeed, most of our graduates pursue advanced degrees in the Chemical, Biochemical or Medical Sciences.
Advanced Placement Credit An AP score of 5 earns 3-credits of General Chemistry I lecture (CHEM-001). No credit is awarded for an AP score of 4. All Chemistry and Biochemistry majors, as well as those planning to pursue medical studies should still plan to enroll in the associated General Chemistry Laboratory I course (CHEM-009). Students with an AP score of 5 may elect to take Introduction to Research Experimentation (CHEM-064) in lieu of 009.
Undergraduate Advising All declared chemistry and biochemistry majors will be assigned an academic advisor at the time the major is declared. Entering first-year students with declared majors in chemistry and biochemistry will receive their advisor’s contact information over the summer before their arrival on campus. The academic advisors work with the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUGS) to ensure that all majors receive sufficient assistance in planning their academic programs throughout the four years. Because most undergraduate students join a research group at some point in their career, once a research mentor has been selected, he/she will naturally assume the academic advising duties for the student.
Chemistry & Biochemistry Majors--the First Two YearsThe first year typically includes General Chemistry I & II with Lab (CHEM-001–009 & 002–010) or General Chemistry for Majors Lab (CHEM-057 & 058) as well as Calculus (Math-035 and/or 036) and general education courses (note: science majors are exempt from the social science requirement). Biochemistry majors additionally take Introductory Biology (BIO-103–104) in the first year. Chemistry majors interested in pursuing future medical studies may also elect to take Introductory Biology in the first year. In the second year, most students typically complete a year of Organic Chemistry I & II with Lab (CHEM-115–117 & 116–118), as well as a year of Physics (PHYS-105 & 108 OR PHYS-041 & 042) and Multivariable Calculus (MATH-137). After the second year, the course requirements for the two majors diverge. Any student who has not completed the “typical” program described by the end of sophomore year should consult with his/her academic advisor and/or the DUGS to work out a plan to ensure an on-time graduation.
Chemistry Majors--Upper Year Required Courses- 2 Physical Chemistry Lecture (CHEM-219–220)
- 1 Analytical Chemistry with Lab (CHEM-211–213)
- 1 Inorganic Chemistry Lecture (CHEM-366)
- 1 Physical-Chemical Measurements (CHEM-323)
- 1 Synthetic Methods Lab (CHEM-228)
- 1 Chemical Instrumentation (CHEM-368)
- 1 Biochemistry I (CHEM-419)
- 1 Advanced science elective. Chemistry courses which can be used in fulfilling the advanced science course requirement include Intro to Chem Research (CHEM 361 & 362), or any of the courses numbered 400 or higher. Upper-level courses in other science departments (e.g., Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology) classes may count as electives with prior approval of the DUGS. All advanced electives should be at least 3-credits.
- 2 Physical Chemistry Lecture (CHEM-219–220)
- 1 Analytical Chemistry with Lab (CHEM-211–213)
- 1 Physical-Chemical Measurements (CHEM-323)
- 2 Biochemistry I & II (CHEM-419 & 520)
- 1 Experimental Methods in Biochemistry (CHEM- 408)
- 2 Advanced science electives. Chemistry courses which can be used in fulfilling the advanced science course requirement include CHEM-228, 361, 362, 366, 368 and those numbered 400 or higher. A maximum of 3-credits of Intro to Chem Research (CHEM- 361 & 362) may be applied toward the major, though additional credits may be taken as general electives. Upper-level courses in the Biology and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Departments may count as electives with prior approval of the DUGS. All advanced electives should be at least 3-credits or sum to 3-credits in the case of partial semester courses.
The Honors Programs in both Chemistry and Biochemistry require a significant research experience which leads to both an oral presentation of the research results and the completion of a research-based thesis deemed acceptable by the faculty. Students in the Honors Program are required to maintain an average of at least B both in their major and overall. Juniors will be invited by the Department to participate in the program generally at the beginning of October. Others are welcome to apply during the Fall semester of their Junior Year.
For a Chemistry Honors degree, a student must complete the regular requirements of the Chemistry major, with the exception of being relieved from taking either Synthetic Methods (CHEM-228) or Chemical Instrumentation (CHEM-368). In addition, they will take two semesters of Honors Research (CHEM-364 & 365) and register for a final semester of Honors Thesis (CHEM-370). The Advanced Chemistry Elective must be a graduate level chemistry course, chosen in consultation with the research mentor.
For a Biochemistry Honors degree, a student must complete the regular requirements of the Biochemistry major, two semesters of Honors Research (CHEM-364 & 365) and register for a final semester of Honors Thesis (CHEM-370). One of the Advanced Science Electives must be a graduate level course, chosen in consultation with the research mentor.
Minor in ChemistryThe Chemistry minor consists of two additional courses beyond Organic Chemistry, chosen from among the following: Physical Chemistry (CHEM-219 & 220), Analytical Chemistry with lab (CHEM-211–213, Synthetic Methods Laboratory (CHEM-228), and Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM- 366). One of the two courses must include laboratory component.
A minor in Chemistry, when combined with an appropriate major, qualifies a student for a variety of science-related post-graduate activities, such as graduate work in art conservancy, a career in environmental or patent law, and many jobs in industry.
Foreign StudyThe Chemistry Department is eager to accommodate the foreign study aspirations of Chemistry and Biochemistry majors. Advanced planning is advisable given the sequential nature of the curriculum. Interested students are encouraged to consult with their advisor or the DUGS at the earliest possible opportunity. Students are also encouraged to apply for summer study-abroad/research-abroad programs as a means to acquire international experiences.
(For course listings for Chemistry see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
CLASSICSFor Classics, see the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics section of this Bulletin.
COGNITIVE SCIENCECognitive Science is the study of the mind, i.e., of how knowledge is acquired and used. Cognitive scientists use theories and methods drawn from many disciplines including cognitive psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, linguistics, computer science, artificial intelligence, physics, mathematics, biology, and anthropology. They ask questions such as: How do people acquire language? What are the neural bases of perceiving, learning and remembering? What is the nature of knowledge? Can machines think? How do experts differ from novices? Are there innate ideas? How did human intelligence evolve?
Cognitive Science at GeorgetownThe Interdisciplinary Program in Cognitive Science offers a Minor in Cognitive Science, and courses open to all students. More than fifty faculty members participate in the program. They come from several departments on the Main and the Medical Center campuses. We have close ties with the Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, a Ph.D. program based in the Medical Center. We encourage undergraduate students to learn about faculty and graduate student research projects at Georgetown, and to work as partners in that research.
We foster student involvement in research in several ways. Both of our core courses, which are open to all students, are team-taught and interdisciplinary. This offers the chance to experience an unusually large range of perspectives and disciplines, all in a single course. In our spring core course (Research Modules in Cognitive Science, ICOS-202), students spend time in several faculty laboratories, during which they read about, discuss, and experience first-hand the research projects underway at Georgetown. Students undertaking our Minor may choose to conduct a senior thesis in Cognitive Science, though a thesis is not required.
We also encourage undergraduate students to meet and learn from Georgetown graduate students on the Main and Medical Center campuses. Our home page contains a list of graduate students who have volunteered to act as advisors, mentors, or contact people for students who are thinking about careers and graduate school. Every fall we offer a course, Disorders and Diseases of the Brain (ICOS-325) which was initiated and is taught by a team of advanced Ph.D. students from Georgetown’s Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience. Students taking this course learn about brain disorders from enthusiastic young scientists who are doing their dissertation research on these topics.
Summary of Requirements for the MinorThe Minor in Cognitive Science normally requires that you have a Major (planned or declared) in one of the following participating disciplines: Biology, Computer Science, Linguistics (including specialists in linguistics from the foreign language departments), Mathematics, Philosophy, Physics, Human Science, or Psychology. Students undertaking other majors may seek permission to take the Minor by contacting the Director of the Program or the College Dean's Office.
To complete the Minor, you must earn a minimum of 18 credits distributed as follows:
- 6 credits for the two core Cognitive Science courses: Introduction to Cognitive Science (ICOS-201), and Research Modules in Cognitive Science (ICOS-202)
- 12 credits consisting of four designated distribution courses in at least two of the participating disciplines outside the Major (see the list of designated courses on the Cognitive Science home page, cognitivescience.georgetown.edu.)
The purpose of the distribution requirement is to give the student a broad background in Cognitive Science. This is why students are required to take at least one designated course in each of two departments outside of their major field. For purposes of this distribution requirement, Cognitive Science (ICOS) counts as a department. Therefore, if the student takes a course offered (or cross listed) by Cognitive Science--other than the two core required courses (ICOS-201 and 202)--this counts as one of the two departments outside the student’s Major.
The Cognitive Science Senior Thesis OptionStudents who are not writing a thesis for their Major are encouraged to exercise the Cognitive Science Senior Thesis option. They should enroll for the Senior Thesis in Cognitive Science (ICOS-391, 392), for a minimum of four credits (maximum of 6 credits) distributed across the two semesters. The number of credits and their distribution across semesters must be approved by the thesis mentor. Regardless of the number of credits, the senior thesis substitutes for one of the four distribution courses. Thus, students undertaking a thesis in Cognitive Science need take only three, instead of four, designated distribution courses.
A list of Faculty in Cognitive Science who are interested in mentoring Cognitive Science theses may be found on the Cognitive Science (cognitivescience.georgetown.edu). Students considering the thesis option (ICOS-391, 392) should identify a senior thesis mentor as early as possible, preferably no later than the early spring of the junior year. They should plan to work on the thesis throughout the senior year.
Theses in some disciplines might require preparatory work during the junior year, which can be started within the context of an ICOS tutorial (ICOS-301, 302). Tutorial credits do not count toward the distribution requirement. All students undertaking ICOS-391–392 should notify the Director at the beginning of the senior year, at the latest. The student must submit an abstract outlining the proposed thesis to the Director no later than October 15 of the senior year. This abstract must be signed by the faculty mentor, thereby indicating the mentor’s approval of the abstract, and the mentor’s willingness to advise and grade the thesis. The deadline for submitting the final draft of the thesis to the mentor is the final day of classes in the spring semester. Upon completion of the thesis, the student must submit the thesis title, an abstract outlining the completed work, and an electronic version of the complete thesis to the Director.
Students who are undertaking a thesis in their Major are encouraged, but not required, to conduct the thesis for their major in an area related to Cognitive Science. However, they should not enroll for any thesis credits other than those required for the major. Students completing a thesis in their major should take a total of four distribution courses approved for the ICOS Minor.
(For course listings for Cognitive Science see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
COMPUTER SCIENCEMajor The Computer Science Department offers three degree options: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science (BA), and a Minor in Computer Science. The BA program is broader than the BS program and more technical than the Minor. Broadly speaking, all universities design their undergraduate computer science BS programs to be in conformance with the ACM-IEEE guidelines on undergraduate computer science education, as does Georgetown University. The BS program has 18 required courses, the BA 12, and the Minor 6. The difference in requirements between the BS and BA comes from reducing the number of required mathematics courses from five to three, and reducing the number of required computer science courses from ten to six.
Both BA and BS programs share the core sequence of Computer Science I and II, Mathematical Methods for Computer Science, Data Structures, and Advanced Programming. This sequence will prepare the BA/BS student to take almost any upper-level computer science elective. At this point the two programs diverge. The BA student now chooses from essentially three different tracks by taking one of Hardware Fundamentals, Programming Languages, or Algorithms; while the BS student must take all these and in addition, System Fundamentals and Operating Systems. The effect is to release the BA student from the more engineering-oriented breadth required of the BS student. Students intending to do postgraduate studies or seeking employment in most traditional areas of computer science are encouraged to pursue the BS option. In addition, BS students are encouraged to do a senior thesis.
Both the BA and BS programs require four technical elective courses. While they share the same list of computer science electives, the BA program allows up to two of the four electives from an approved list of external courses offered in other departments. Students may also petition to use courses not on the list by seeking special approval from the department’s curriculum committee. The approved external electives are courses for majors in other programs that have a strong computational or computer science component. The BA student may also opt to do a senior thesis.
BA students who begin their computer science program with Introduction to Computer Science (COSC-010) may elect to use that course as a substitute for an external elective for the major. COSC-010 represents an alternative teaching approach to the discipline in that it covers a representative range of computer science topics, introducing the essential concepts and foundational methods in each area. Within this context, the department feels it is appropriate to allow BA students the option of beginning their program with this course, and then continuing on to Computer Science I and the rest of the usual sequence.
The Minor in Computer Science includes Computer Science I and II, and any four Computer Science courses listed for the BS degree.
BS Program Sequence- Computer Hardware Fundamentals (COSC-250)
- Computer Systems Fundamentals (COSC-251)
- Programming Languages (COSC-272)
- Algorithms (COSC-330)
- Operating Systems (COSC-374)
- and any 4 Computer Science electives from
- (COSC-288, 317, 350, 352, 355, 380, 382, 385, 387, 390, 393, 416, 511)
- Optional: Senior Thesis Seminar (COSC-300) and Senior Thesis Independent Study (COSC-301)
The senior thesis option consists of taking two semesters of the Senior Thesis Seminar (COSC-300), producing a thesis proposal, writing a substantial senior thesis, and giving an oral presentation of the thesis. While the seminar is open to all students, to be accepted to write a senior thesis the student must apply to individual faculty members. If the application is accepted, the faculty member will act as thesis advisor, determine the acceptability of the thesis proposal, and present the completed thesis to the general faculty for approval. Senior Thesis Independent Study (COSC-301) is intended to be the directed research portion of the thesis project and may substitute for an elective for BS students.
BA Program Sequence- Computer Hardware Fundamentals (COSC-250)
- Programming Languages (COSC-272)
- Algorithms (COSC-330)
- and 2–4 Computer Science electives from any of the required or elective courses for the BS,
- and up to two external electives from an approved list, for a total of four electives.
- Optional: Senior Thesis and Senior Thesis Independent Study (COSC-301).
Computer Science I and II (COSC-071, 072), and any four Computer Science electives from any of the required or elective courses for the BS.
(For course listings for Computer Science see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
ECONOMICSDepartmental degree requirements are as follows: ten courses which must include both Principles of Microeconomics (ECON-001) and Principles of Macroeconomics (ECON-002) or Principles of Economics (ECON-003), Intermediate Microeconomics (ECON-101 or 103), Intermediate Macroeconomics (ECON-102 or 104), Economic Statistics (ECON-121) and Introduction to Econometrics (ECON-122). The remaining four or five electives must include at least two 400-level courses. Most courses beyond Micro and Macro Principles require, as a prerequisite, Calculus I (MATH-035). Introduction to Econometrics must be taken before the Fall semester of senior year. First and second year students who are considering an economics major should meet with the Undergraduate Coordinator early in their careers at Georgetown to develop a plan to meet requirements and accommodate their own interests as they pursue their major. Students can, however, discuss their plans with any professor in the department. Students who have had some economics should consider taking ECON-003 instead of 001 and 002.
Preparation for a career in economics requires a strong foundation in theory and quantitative methods. Students who anticipate doing graduate work in economics should take the Calculus sequence in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (MATH-035, 036, 137, 150), the Honors courses in Microeconomic (103) and Macroeconomic Theory (104), Mathematics for Economics (425), and Intermediate Econometrics (422).
Honors Program Students can graduate with honors in economics by: (1) taking Honors Intermediate Microeconomics (ECON-103) and Honors Intermediate Macroeconomics (ECON-104), or attaining an A or A- in each of Intermediate Microeconomics (ECON-101) and Macroeconomics (ECON-102); (2) attaining a 3.67 grade average in economics courses; and (3) taking at least three 400-level courses. A thesis is not required to graduate with departmental honors.
Study Abroad Students who study abroad for a single semester may receive credit for at most two economics courses while studying abroad. Students who study abroad for two semesters may receive credit for up to three economics courses.
Courses taken abroad may be substituted for Intermediate Microeconomics (ECON-101), Intermediate Macroeconomics (ECON-102), Statistics (ECON-121), Econometrics (ECON-122), or 400-level courses, but only if the substitution has been approved by the Economics Department prior to enrollment. Students seeking approval for one of these courses need to submit a syllabus (not a course description) for the course to the Director of Undergraduate Studies. It is not necessary to submit a syllabus for approval of a non-400-level economics elective. However, to ensure credit, students should also secure approval of these courses prior to departure.
Major in EconomicsPrerequisite: Calculus (MATH-035) or equivalent AP credit
10 Economics courses:
- Principles courses (either ECON-003 or both ECON-001 and 002)
- Intermediate Microeconomics (ECON-101 or 103)
- Intermediate Macroeconomics (ECON-102 or 104)
- Economic Statistics (ECON-121)
- Introduction to Econometrics (ECON-122)
- 4 or 5 electives, including at least two 400-level courses
The requirements for a minor in Economics are Principles of Microeconomics (ECON-001), Principles of Macroeconomics (ECON-002), Intermediate Microeconomics (ECON-101 or ECON-103) or Intermediate Macroeconomics (ECON-102 or ECON-104), Economic Statistics (ECON-121) (may be substituted with MATH-040 Probability and Statistics or OPIM-174, Business Statistics), and two Economics electives. To earn a minor in Economics, at least 50% of the courses must be taken in the Economics Department at Georgetown.
(For course listings for Economics see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
ENGLISHIn the English major, students have the opportunity to explore an extraordinary range of texts and diverse critical methods for engaging and analyzing those texts. The major allows students to select from a large variety of courses that attend to the complexity of texts in their historical, cultural, and formal contexts.
All English courses have as a goal the development of students’ abilities as close readers and cogent writers. The major includes and values a variety of theoretical models. With the help of their departmental advisor, majors develop a coherent course of study that accords with their personal interests and that serves their goals for the future. To this end, the major serves two purposes: (1) to introduce students to the different approaches, methodologies, and topics of importance in the study of English, and (2) to assist students to focus their studies according to their own developing interests.
Students will find in the English major a focus on those personal, social, and cultural concerns that are central to the goals of an undergraduate education, that enhance their personal growth, and that prepare them for responsible participation as citizens in a democracy. Courses often encourage students to connect their study in English to other disciplines at Georgetown. Students will also find a strong grounding for continued study in graduate school as well as valuable preparation for those professions and professional schools--for example, law, medicine, business--that require critical thinking, interpretive sophistication, awareness of cultural issues, and effective speaking and writing.
The English major program begins with the sophomore year. First-year students interested in the program should consult their first-year English professors. Departmental advisors are available to all English majors.
All students should familiarize themselves with the information on the department website. The website will always contain the most current and accurate listing of course descriptions and information on the major: http://english.georgetown.edu.
Any student who wishes to take electives in the English department, regardless of major or minor, must take one Gateway before taking any further English elective. Students may take the Gateway and the elective at the same time.
The English Major RequirementsThe ENGLISH MAJOR will require a minimum of one of the following combinations:
- HUMW-011 + 2 Gateways + 7 electives
- HUMW-009 + 2 Gateways + 7 electives
- Lib Arts Sem + 1 Gateway + 7 electives
- 3 or 6 hrs/credit AP + 2 Gateways + 7 electives
- any approved combination of Transfer courses + Gateways + electives equaling 10 courses
Introduction to Issues in Literary and Cultural History
English majors are required to take one Gateway from ENG-040/041 and one from ENG-042/043, preferably as early in their academic career as possible. All students are required to take at least ONE of the following four courses as a prerequisite to taking any further English courses. Non-majors are not required to take more than one Gateway or Gateway equivalent. Majors may take no more than two Gateways. These courses will continue to help students with their skills in critical writing and close reading.
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Eighteenth and/or Nineteenth Century Literatures and Cultures |
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In addition to two Gateway courses, majors are required to take seven electives (courses numbered 100–499). Of these seven electives, three elective courses are required for the English major: one from Field 1, one from Field 2, and one from either Field 3 or Field 4:
- Medieval and/or Renaissance Literatures & Cultures (courses numbered 100–149)
- Eighteenth and/or Nineteenth Century Literatures & Cultures (150–199)
- Modern and/or Postmodern Literatures & Cultures (200–299)
- Critical, Scholarly, and Creative Practices (300–499)
English majors are encouraged to take one or more seminars in their junior or senior year. These courses will have a limited enrollment and will give students the opportunity to do advanced work in a seminar setting. Students who are interested in applying to do a Senior Honors Thesis are especially encouraged to take one or more of these seminars in their junior year.
After completing their gateway courses, English majors are encouraged to consider, in consultation with their faculty advisor, the following areas during their junior and senior years. The department has already attempted to introduce students to such areas within its gateway courses. By choosing electives from different areas, students will be able to experience further the wide diversity of texts, topics, and methodological approaches that characterize the field of English studies today. By choosing courses from a single area, students will be able to concentrate their field of study in an area of special interest to them. Suggested areas of interest:
- British & American Literary Periods and Authors
- Postcolonial, Ethnic, and Critical Race Studies
- Genre Studies
- Creative Writing
- Studies in Gender & Sexuality
- Cultural, Media, & Performance Studies
Except for extraordinary reasons and upon petition to the Director of Undergraduate Studies in English by the individual student, electives offered by other Georgetown departments will not count as electives towards the English Major.
AP credit will be given towards HUMW-011, not towards Gateways or major/minor electives. For the class of 2011 and before, a score of “4” yields three credits and will count as HUMW-011; a score of “5” yields six credits. Three credits are awarded as the equivalent of HUMW-011, and three additional credits are awarded as free elective credit towards the degree. Students in the College wishing to take further English courses and receiving either 3 or 6 credits of AP English should proceed directly to a Gateway course for their first course in English at GU. Students who have AP credit and choose to take HUMW-011 will receive credit for the course counting toward the Humanities and Writing I requirement, but they will also have to forfeit their AP credit. For the class of 2012 and beyond, COL students with a score of 4 or 5 in the AP Language or Literature exam will receive 3 credits for HUMW-011.
Honors in EnglishTo graduate with honors in English, a student must earn a grade of A- or better in a thesis project, as determined by the department Honors Committee in consultation with the mentor(s), and must complete the English major. Admission to candidacy for Honors in English is competitive and usually occurs in the spring of the student’s junior year. Details and the application are on the department website. In their senior year, students take two additional upper-division courses beyond those required of all majors. One course is a thesis research tutorial; the other is a colloquium in which students collaboratively develop and critique each other’s work.
Transfer Students During the August orientation, transfer students meet with departmental advisors. At that time and in subsequent meetings, students have the opportunity to discuss their individual programs.
Junior Year Abroad Students must fulfill all requirements and take at least six courses in this Department. Their study abroad requires the approval of the departmental study abroad advisors. Students are strongly encouraged to have their program of study approved before they go abroad.
Summer School Students taking summer courses elsewhere must fulfill all requirements and take at least six courses in this Department. Their summer program requires the chair’s approval or the approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Minor in English Students are required to take six courses: HUMW-011 or its equivalent; one Gateway; and four upper-division electives. At least four courses of these six must be taken within the English department.
Accelerated BA/MA Program in English Qualified students enroll in up to two graduate English seminars in their senior year, each of which will count toward the undergraduate Major in English. If a student is subsequently accepted into the MA Program, those two courses will also count toward the MA degree. Application for the program should be made in the second semester of the applicant’s junior year, though students may apply later under certain circumstances. To apply, see the Accelerated BA/MA Program description on the English Department web site, or contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator in the English Department.
(For course listings for English see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGYAn undergraduate major in Environmental Biology is offered through the Department of Biology. Please refer to the Biology section in this Bulletin.
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIESOver 6.7 billion Humans are increasingly challenging our fragile planet in many unprecedented ways. Consequently, we have many growing environmental problems to solve including our air and water pollution, biodiversity crisis, energy requirements, garbage, global warming, and habitat degradation.
Environmental Studies (ES) seeks to inform students about many facets of our environment and its problems. Within ES, GU offers an Environmental Studies Minor (ESM). It requires three science courses, three humanities courses, and a capstone experience. Students and their mentors design capstone experiences as individual projects within, or separate, from regular courses. In addition to students’ academic development, the ESM seeks to educate students to be excellent Earth stewards at all levels from personal habits through wise voting and environmental leadership. The ESM helps to prepare students for careers in many environmental areas.
The ESM integrates many fields of knowledge, and fosters interdisciplinary, creative thinking, and problem solving. Students draw from areas such as biotechnology, conservation and resource management, ecology, economics, energy research, ethics, information technology, national and international law, policy, and social research in formulating their thoughts and presentations and undertaking their capstone experiences.
This minor requires two fundamental courses, Introductory Biology II (BIOL-104) and Introduction to Environmental Science (STIA-102). (Note: Students do not need to take Introductory Biology I, BIOL-103, prior to enrolling in BIOL-104.) BIOL-104 emphasizes organismal biology, in particular behavior, ecology, and evolution. These areas inform us of our place and ecological role in our biosphere. STIA-102 teaches students about biogeochemical cycles, the chemistry and physics of Earth’s atmosphere and hydrosphere, energy resources, and pollution. Further, because ESM students profit from understanding economic analyses of environmental issues, the ESM Progam highly recommends Microeconomic Theory (ECON-101) and Environmental Economics (ECON-375) which are key courses that enable this understanding.
(For course listings for Environmental Studies see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
FILM AND MEDIA STUDIESTo live in the 21st Century is to engage in the consumption, production, and distribution of sounds, images, and information. The Interdisciplinary Program in Film and Media Studies offers a new academic program that will enable our students to gain a sophisticated understanding of media—defined as the multiple channels, technologies, and interfaces through which information, ideas, and emotions are stored, shared, and reciprocated—and the ways that media shape our understanding of the world and our ability to act in it. Through the Minor in Film and Media Studies, students will develop media fluency: the ability to analyze, contextualize, create and use media as the exercise of citizen leadership.
The Minor in Film and Media Studies will combine three emphases: media history and theory; experiential learning in media creation; and media and social justice. Through the Minor, students may elect to combine the study of media with their other fields of interest. Georgetown College's Program in Film and Media Studies is distinguished by its focus on the relations between media and social justice. Our faculty understands the study of media to be inextricably linked to questions of power, rights, human development, and self-determination. Our students will investigate these questions historically and theoretically and through their own creative and collaborative work.
The Minor will consist of six required courses. Students will be introduced to the study of media through a gateway course (FMST-100). The gateway course will lay out the learning goals for the program:
Students will acquire the vocabulary and concepts necessary to analyze media.
- Students will develop the capacity for close analysis of media.
- Students will be involved in experiential learning through media creation.
- Students will develop understandings of media in historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts.
The program will culminate in a capstone course (FMST-400) in which each student will propose and develop individual projects involving the study and creation of media and social justice work. The gateway and capstone courses will be taught on a rotating basis by the core faculty in Film and Media Studies, along with other faculty affiliated with the Program.
Curricular Requirements
The interdisciplinary Minor in Film and Media Studies will require a total of 6 courses.
- FMST-100: Gateway to Film and Media Studies
- 4 Minor Electives (selected from a pool of cross-listed courses or as approved by the Director)
- One elective must emphasize Media Creation (Filmmaking Studio or equivalent course)
- One elective must emphasize Media and Social Justice (students are encouraged to choose a Community Based Learning course to fulfill this requirement)
- One elective must emphasize Film/Media History or Theory
- One free elective (students may choose to take another course in media creation—such as screenwriting—or an additional course on media history or theory)
- Students are encouraged to choose at least one course emphasizing non-U.S film and media
- FMST-400: Capstone in Film and Media Studies
Upon approval by the Director of Film and Media Studies, students may count up to two courses taken outside of Georgetown (via study abroad, the DC Consortium, or summer study) toward the requirements of the Minor.
Application
The Film and Media Studies Minor program will begin in spring 2011. In fall 2010, sophomore and junior students in Georgetown College may apply to the Minor program. Applications will be available in October, and a sub-committee of the Core Faculty will select the first cohort of Minors before the start of pre-registration for the spring. Students admitted to the Minor will be enrolled in FMST-100: Gateway to Film and Media Studies for the spring 2011 term. In subsequent years, application will be by College sophomores only, during the spring semester in advance of pre-registration for the fall of junior year.
(For course listings for Film and Media Studies see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
GLOBAL HEALTHAn undergraduate major in Biology of Global Health is offered through the Department of Biology. Please refer to the Biology section in this Bulletin.
GOVERNMENT Requirements for the Major of GovernmentGovernment majors are required to take ten courses: four introductory courses and six electives. The required introductory courses are:
- U.S. Political Systems (008)
- Elements of Political Theory (117)
- International Relations (006)
- Comparative Political Systems (121)
The electives are organized into four subfields: American Government, International Relations, Comparative Government, and Political Theory. Political Economy courses may exist in each of the four subfields. Students may take no more than four of the six electives in any one subfield and must include at least on in political theory. The subfield designations are listed in the Registrar’s course listings under the course title: Field: AG, Field: IR, Field: CG; Field PT; Field: PECO for subfields American Government, International Relations, Comparative Government, Political Theory and Political Economy, respectively.
Math-006, Math-040, or AP credits for these courses may count for one elective. The Department encourages majors to take either Math-006 or Math-040, which will count toward both the General Education requirement as well as the major. During the junior or senior year, students are required to take one Department Seminar, a small class with a full-time faculty member that centers on research and writing skills. These seminars, which count as one of the six electives, will be indicated in the semester course listings as “Department Seminar:” or “DEP SEM:” on the Registrar’s course listings.
Students can receive credit towards their major for no more than two courses taken outside of Georgetown University, unless the student is a transfer student. Transfer students who wish to major in Government may receive credit for up to five political science courses taken at another college or university. It is strongly recommended that students take the four required introductory courses (i.e., 006, 008, 117, and 121) offered by the Department rather than counting courses outside the Department toward those requirements. Students with a score of 4 or 5 on the AP American Government exam may receive credit for GOVT-008.
The Department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies assigns an advisor to students upon declaration of the major.
Declaration of Major in GovernmentIn order to declare a major in government, students must complete at least two of the four introductory courses in Government (GOVT-006, 008, 117, and 121) and obtain a grade no lower than a C+ in each. The g.p.a. in all Government courses taken prior to declaration must be a C+ or higher. Similarly, transfer students must have completed at least two courses in political science with a grade no lower than a C+ in each. Please check the schedule each semester for a list of courses and prerequisites.
Minor in Government Students who minor in government must take the four introductory courses of the Government major and any two electives. Students can credit no more than one course taken outside of the department to the minor. Transfer students may receive credit for up to two political science courses taken at another college or university.
Government Honors The Government Honors Program is an intensive, three-semester program of closely mentored research and writing that culminates in a Senior Honors Thesis. As part of the program, students take an advanced seminar in Political Theory and a course on Scope and Methods of Political Science in the spring of the junior year. Students then prepare a thesis proposal in the fall of their senior year (as participants in the Honors Research Seminar) and complete the thesis (in consultation with their mentor) in the spring. Students defend their work in an oral examination at the conclusion of their last semester. Aside from a waiver of the elective in political theory, students are expected to meet all the normal requirements for the major. Prerequisites for the program include a declared government major and a minimum GPA of 3.5 overall and in government courses. A call for applications from interested Juniors is issued in the fall.
For information about the majors, minors and programs offered by the Department of Government see http://government.georgetown.edu/.
(For course listings for Government see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
HISTORYMajor History majors are required to complete at least eleven, but no more than fourteen, semester courses in history: normally the two general education courses, and at least nine semester courses in history electives (courses numbered 101 and above) chosen with the approval of the department. Students exempted from the general education requirement, but without advanced standing, are still required to take eleven history courses (see the section on general education requirements for specifics).
To help insure that there is breadth and depth in a student’s selection of courses, History majors must take a minimum of three electives in one region in Group A and three electives in one region in Group B. Group A consists of: Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Group B consists of Europe, Russia/Eastern Europe, and North America. Several comparative or global courses can be applied to one of several regions.
In addition to geographic distribution, History majors must fulfill the following level distribution requirements: at least four history courses must be numbered 200 or above, including at least two numbered 300 or above. One of the courses numbered 300 or above must be a fourth course in one of the two regions on which the student is concentrating.
Note: Beginning with the Class of 2012, the level distribution requirement will change: History majors will need at least three courses numbered 300 or above, one of which will still need to be a fourth course in one of the two regions on which the student is concerntrating. The distinction between 100- and 200-level courses will be eliminated.
Note: Students may propose to replace one of their two geographic regions of concentration with a thematic area. Interested students should present to their advisors a short definition of the rationale of the thematic area, and a list of planned courses. Examples of thematic areas may be environmental history, women’s history, labor history, or economic history. The thematic area may consist of three or four courses. The thematic area must reach geographically well beyond the other region of concentration in the major. Advisors, if they approve the proposal, will take care of all necessary communication with the Dean’s office and the Registrar’s.
As students in the College, History majors are required to demonstrate foreign language proficiency through the intermediate level. The department encourages study abroad and is flexible in facilitating the transfer of credit for bona fide history courses.
Students interested in majoring in History register with the Director of Undergraduate Studies in the department, normally during their sophomore year. They should bring a Declaration of Major form, which can be obtained from the College Dean’s Office. The Director of Undergraduate Studies will help the student select an advisor, and sign the Declaration of Major form for the College.
History Minor Eighteen hours of History courses, of which at least six (two courses) must be 200 or above, and no more than six credits from the 001–099 level, are required for the History Minor. Note: Beginning with the Class of 2012, the minor will change to: Eighteen hours of History courses, of which at least three (one course) must be 300 or above, and no more than six credits from the 001–099 level, are required for the History Minor.
History Honors The Department of History encourages potentially excellent students to participate in its Honors Program. Admission to the History Honors Program is by invitation of the Department and is decided in February/March of each year. Interested junior History majors may also contact the Department’s Director of Undergraduate Studies. Ordinarily, the minimum requirement for admission to the Program is a ranking in the top one-third of each Class and a GPA of 3.67 in the major. Students need to maintain the GPA of 3.67 in the major to receive History Honors at graduation. Students who are accepted into this Program take a two-semester Senior Honors Seminar, for which they produce a distinguished piece of research. This Seminar (HIST-408–409) fulfills the requirements for two courses numbered 300 or above.
Independent Study and Internships Students with a 3.5 average or better in their History courses may enroll in an independent study or an internship in History under the supervision of a faculty member who has some expertise in the area in which the student wants to concentrate.
The independent study elective can be fashioned as either a reading or a research tutorial. The internship elective includes both the internship and a supplementary reading or research project.
All applications for independent study and internships must have the approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies. It is advisable that students consult with the Director early when planning for one of these options.
Required Courses- 11 Semesters of History, normally including:
- 2 semesters of general education courses: Early Intro History (HIST-00) and Late Intro History (HIST-008); or other applicable courses (see the section on general eucation requirements for specifics). Note: Before Fall 2010 HIST-007 was listed as HIST-001, HIST-003, or HIST-033; and HIST-008 was listed as HIST-002, HIST-006, or HIST-034.
- A total of 9 History electives (101 or above) of which at least 4 must be 200 or above (including at least 2 at 300 or above) and which meet the Department’s regional or thematic distribution requirement.
Accelerated BA or BSFS/Master of Arts in Global, International and Comparative History (MAGIC) Degree Program in History Students enrolled in this program take up to four graduate History seminars in their senior year, two of which can be double-counted towards their undergraduate requirements. Remaining coursework is done the following year as full-time MAGIC students. Application for the program should be made in the second semester of the applicant’s junior year. It is also possible to apply in the fall semester of the senior year. For further information, please see the MAGIC website at: http://www1.georgetown.edu/departments/history/programs/magic/36187.html. For further inquiries, please contact the MAGIC Director in the History Department.
(For course listings for History see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIESGeorgetown College has established a majors program in interdisciplinary studies that affords a limited number of qualified students the opportunity to pursue a course of major studies that integrates several disciplines. As Peter Hans Kolvenbach, S.J., former Father General of the Society of Jesus, has noted, the interdisciplinary approach is “the only significant way to heal the fracture of knowledge” that results from the separation and isolation of the work of the disciplines.
The Interdisciplinary Studies (IDST) Major is normally developed during the second semester of the sophomore year with the aid of faculty from the disciplines to be integrated. The major is restricted to students with a cumulative QPI of 3.5 and the program presupposes that most general education requirements of the College have been fulfilled.
A viable proposal for an IDST major must demonstrate true interdisciplinarity by spanning two or more departmental programs. An ordinary faculty member from each of the anchoring departments must be involved as a major advisor and thesis reader. The applicant should select a balance of coursework from each discipline and must show that the proposed major cannot be accommodated within an existing departmental major or through the combination of an existing major plus minor. Students who wish to build an IDST major from an approved program or departmental minor must receive approval from the relevant program director or departmental chair.
The proposal should include a brief 1–2 page introduction to the proposed topic that justifies the major and outlines an intellectual question that guides the course of study. In consultation with the faculty advisors, the student should identify 12–14 courses of instruction that deliver breadth and depth in the disciplines to be explored. The curriculum structure should include 1–2 introductory survey courses appropriate for the proposed major, 3–5 upper-level courses (including both theoretical and practical approaches) for each of the disciplines involved, and a capstone course or senior seminar. Permission for study abroad must be received from the faculty mentors and the Dean’s office. A maximum of 2 courses per semester of study abroad may be applied to the major. A senior thesis that integrates the curriculum pursued is required and may be part of the capstone course or may be independent.
Applications for the Interdisciplinary Major Program should be made in the spring of the sophomore year to the office of the Dean of the College with the final proposal due by March 15. The student should submit the proposal with signatures of the ordinary faculty advisors as well as the appropriate department chairs. Application forms are available in the office of the Dean, ICC 303.
JEWISH CIVILIZATIONThe minor in Jewish Civilization allows undergraduate students in Georgetown College to obtain an interdisciplinary perspective on the global and historical dimensions of Judaism with special emphasis on the ethical aspects of Jewish civilization and its interrelationship with other peoples and polities. This center is innovative for its focus not only on Jewish religion and history, but also on the wider cultural, political, philosophical, and literary accomplishments of the Jewish people. Courses represent a broad range of disciplines including; government, history, theology, language and the arts. This is a program for students of all religious backgrounds. It is appropriate for individuals with either a strong background in Judaism or none at all who are eager to grow intellectually in this area.
Course Requirements Students accepted into the minor program must successfully complete the following courses.
- Introduction to Jewish Civilization: This course provides a foundation for the study of Jewish civilization, and is required for all minor candidates.
- Senior Essay (completed during a student’s final semester in the minor program). Minor candidates are required to write an essay of 25–30 pages on a topic related to Jewish civilization. Upon completion, the students will present their papers in a colloquium to be moderated by a leading scholar in the field of Jewish Civilization
- Electives Minor candidates must take a minimum of four electives from the following catagories.
- Humanities: minimum of one course
- Social Science: minimum of one
- Hebrew Language (not required): maximum of two courses
For a list of current courses, refer to our web site at http://pjc.georgetown.edu.
Additional electives may be approved by the program director, but must make a significant contribution to the understanding of Jewish civilization.
Applicants are required to complete an application form available online at http://pjc.georgetown.edu. It is recommended that candidates submit their applications by the end of spring semester their junior year. However, applications will still be accepted until the end of the following fall semester.
(For course listings for Jewish Civilization see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
JUSTICE AND PEACE STUDIESGeorgetown College offers a minor in Justice and Peace Studies; the School of Foreign Service, the School of Nursing and Health Studies, and The McDonough School of Business offer a Certificate in Justice and Peace Studies. The emerging interdisciplinary field of Peace Studies--known variously as “peace studies,” “peace and conflict studies,” “conflict analysis and resolution,” or “peace and justice studies”--is concerned with practical normative questions of peace and justice. The ultimate goal is to produce practical and useful scholarship on how to create a more just and peaceful world. Such scholarship requires theoretical reflection on what makes a society or cross-social relations just; social scientific accounts of the causes of war, violence, and injustice; and practical understanding of the efficacy of various steps that can be taken to prevent such harmful social conditions. Each of these investigations can take place at all levels of social organization, from the individual, to the family, the small group, the nation, or the international community.
Many specific questions arise as central to this study, perhaps the most basic of which is the nature of our subject matter. Students are exposed to a rich and contentious literature on the nature of peace and justice, a literature which has been a part of the Western debate as far back as Socrates. Other questions of central interest to the field concern the material and psychological determinants of aggression, the role of families and other institutions in producing aggressive or peaceful societies, the origins of social inequality, techniques of representing others and the role of such representations in the building of communities. Justice and Peace Studies also asks questions about the role of religious identity in forming the social conscience, the causes of war, the definitions of just and unjust war, the legitimacy or efficacy of international norms of conduct, and the effectiveness of various techniques of resolving conflict in different settings.
Such questions draw essentially on a large range of existing disciplines including psychology, economics, philosophy, theology, history, political science, sociology, anthropology, literary and cultural studies, women’s studies, and linguistics. Equally essential is that the field requires an active collaboration and dialogue between all these elements to form a useful synthesis with an eye to methods of improving the world around us.
The minor or certificate requires students to take Introduction to Justice and Peace (JUPS-123); Nonviolence: Theory And Practice (JUPS-202); a course on conflict transformation (JUPS-271 or 272); two electives; and a senior seminar (JUPS-303). Students also must complete a service learning requirement.
(For course listings for Justice and Peace see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
MATHEMATICSMathematics major The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers two majors. The A.B. major is designed for students planning graduate study or employment outside mathematics (medicine, law, business, finance, journalism, government service, or pre-college teaching). The B.S. major is designed for students planning graduate study or employment in mathematics. Both majors are built around a set of five core courses. Four of these courses, Calculus I (035), Calculus II (036), Multivariable Calculus (137), and Linear Algebra (150), introduce basic mathematical concepts needed for further study. The fifth course, Introduction to Proof and Problem Solving (200), helps develop mathematical reasoning abilities and is a prerequisite for several upper level courses including Abstract Algebra (215) and Analysis I (310). If unable to complete all five courses in two years, it is recommended that Linear Algebra be deferred to the fall of junior year.
The A.B. Mathematics Major requires 6 courses beyond the five core courses, the B.S. Major requires 9 courses beyond the core, and the Mathematics Minor requires 3 courses beyond the core. Any student contemplating a math major or minor, and whose faculty advisor is not in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, is strongly urged to consult with the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
A.B. Mathematics MajorStudents should complete 035, 036, 137, 150, and 200 by the end of their sophomore year. If unable to complete all five courses in two years, it is recommended that 150 be deferred to the fall of junior year. Abstract Algebra is normally taken in the junior year, Analysis I in the senior year.
Required courses- Calculus I (035). Note: MATH-035 may be waived for students who demonstrate sufficient knowledge of Calculus, based on placement test or successful completion of MATH-036).
- Calculus II (036)
- Multivariable Calculus (137)
- Linear Algebra (150)
- Introduction to Proof and Problem Solving (200)
- Abstract Algebra (215)
- Analysis I (310)
- 4 Mathematics electives at level of 140 or higher
Students should complete 035, 036, 137, 150, and 200 by the end of their sophomore year. If unable to complete all five courses in two years, it is recommended that Linear Algebra be deferred to the fall of junior year. Abstract Algebra is normally taken in the junior year, Analysis I and Complex Variables in the senior year. To encourage the major to see some significant applications of mathematics, one of the four electives can be a mathematically intensive course in another discipline (approved by the Director of Undergraduate Studies), such as Physical Chemistry Lectures (CHEM-219-220), Efficient Computing Methods (COSC-504), Game Theory (ECON-459), Relativity and Quantum Physics (PHYS-211).
Required courses- Calculus I (035). Note: MATH-035 may be waived for students who demonstrate sufficient knowledge of Calculus, based on placement test or successful completion of MATH-036).
- Calculus II (036)
- Multivariable Calculus (137)
- Linear Algebra (150)
- Introduction to Proof and Problem Solving (200)
- Mathematical Statistics (140)
- Abstract Algebra (215)
- Analysis I (310)
- Complex Variables (326)
- 4 Mathematics electives at level of 200 or higher
- Computer Science I (COSC-071) or equivalent
While some courses may be waived due to Advanced Placement or departmental placement test, at least two courses at the 200 level or above must be taken from our department.
Required courses- Calculus I (035). Note: MATH-035 may be waived for students who demonstrate sufficient knowledge of Calculus, based on placement test or successful completion of MATH-036).
- Calculus II (036)
- Multivariable Calculus (137)
- Linear Algebra (150)
- 3 Mathematics electives at level of 140 or higher,
Mathematics honors A junior majoring in mathematics may apply to perform a research project in the senior year with a mathematics faculty mentor leading to a substantial paper and an oral presentation. A committee of three mathematics faculty members must approve the initial application, and whether to approve the final paper prior to the oral presentation. Normally an applicant should have a B+ average in mathematics courses to participate and will take an independent study tutorial (MATH-301) during the fall of senior year.
Advanced Placement Prospective students are encouraged to take an Advanced Placement Examination in Mathematics. A student who scores either four or five on the Calculus BC examination is awarded eight semester hours credit, may omit Calculus I (035) and Calculus II (036), and can take Multivariable Calculus (137). A student who scores four or five on the Calculus AB examination is awarded four semester hours credit, may omit Calculus I (035), and can take Calculus II (036). Students who have not received credit or advanced placement by means of these examinations, but who believe that their preparation in high school is substantially equivalent to Calculus I and/or II may take a placement examination, administered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics during the registration period at the beginning of the fall term, to have requirement for one or both of these courses waived. Further information may be obtained from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics or from the office of the Dean of the College. See the Undergraduate Admissions section of this Bulletin for information about advanced placement in statistics.
(For course listings for Mathematics see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
MEDIEVAL STUDIESThe Medieval Studies Program offers an interdisciplinary undergraduate major and minor focused on the period from roughly the fall of Rome (5th century A.D.) to the year 1500. It also offers a certificate in the School of Foreign Service. The program focuses on a historical and cultural period in which Georgetown University has particular strengths, not only in Western but also in Middle Eastern and Asian cultures, across many disciplines, ranging from art and music to philosophy, from literature and history to theology, from China to the Middle East to Europe.
The Middle Ages in Europe and the corresponding periods in the Middle East and Asia were seminal periods in the narrative of modern culture, and eras of extraordinary interchange between East and West, especially in technology, literature, science, education, and trade. The Middle Ages saw the codification of common law; the development of business law and ethics; the establishment of the first secular schools of medicine and law; the invention of banking; the rediscovery of Aristotle; the growth of Christianity and rise of Islam; the rise of vernacular literature, art, and music; and the establishment of the university, among many other developments that have had a lasting impact on the world’s cultures.
Minor For a minor in Medieval Studies, students in the College are required to take one Introduction to Medieval Studies course: The Age of Dante (MVST-201) or Worlds of Book of Good Love (MVST-202) or Medieval Manuscript Cultures (MVST-203) and five additional electives from the list of MVST cross-listed courses that appears in the Schedule of Classes and the program’s web site every semester. Students should consult with the director of Medieval Studies about their course of study. Minors are encouraged, but not required, to write a Medieval Studies thesis.
SFS Certificate Students in the School of Foreign Service may earn a Certificate in Medieval Studies, rather than a minor. SFS students are required to take The Age of Dante (MVST-201) or The Worlds of Book of Good Love (MVST-202) or Medieval Manuscript Cultures (MVST-203) and five additional electives approved by the director. They must also write a thesis, in conjunction with MVST-349: Thesis Seminar, under the direction of faculty approved by the director. For more details, consult a Dean in the School of Foreign Service or the Director of Medieval Studies, Professor Kelley Wickham-Crowley in the English Department.
MajorMedieval Studies majors may choose either of two tracks. Both are concentrations within the Interdisciplinary Studies program of the College:
I. Medieval Studies MajorMajors are required to take one Introduction to Medieval Studies course: The Age of Dante (MVST-201) or Worlds of Book of Good Love (MVST-202) or Medieval Manuscript Cultures (MVST-203). It is normally taken as soon as possible after declaring the major. In their senior year, majors take a two-semester Senior Seminar that introduces more advanced methodologies of doing research in Medieval Studies and results in a required Senior Thesis (MVST-348 and 349). In addition, each student must complete 8 other electives cross-listed from disciplines related to the program. These courses should be planned in consultation with the director of Medieval Studies.
II. Honors Medieval Studies MajorFor the Honors track, students must complete the normal requirements for the major. In addition, they must also achieve competence in Medieval Latin, normally demonstrated by completing or testing out of 001 and 002 (CLSL or MVST), and by taking a one-semester course in Latin texts (CLSL- or MVST-109 or its equivalent). Finally, their Senior Thesis must earn an A- or better.
Required Courses- All the above plus
- Latin I, II (CLSL-001, 002, or equivalent)
- 1 course in Medieval Latin texts (CLSL- or MVST-109 or its equivalent)
- A Senior Thesis earning A- or better.
(For course listings for Medieval Studies see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
NEUROBIOLOGYAn undergraduate major in Neurobiology is offered through the Department of Biology. Please refer to the Biology section in this Bulletin.
PERFORMING ARTSThe Department of Performing Arts offers majors in American Musical Culture and in Theater & Performance Studies.
American Musical CultureA major in American Musical Culture consists of ten music courses and one senior capstone project. Designed for students interested in American Studies, arts management, cultural criticism, entertainment law, media studies, music business, music journalism or musicology, the program offers a range of classes in music history, theory, recording arts, and performance. Requirements for the degree include: Writing About the Performing Arts (MUSC-161); two music theory courses (MUSC-141 and an additional course that falls within course number range MUSC-240–259 or MUSC-340–359); at least three of the four core courses in music (MUSC-114, 115, 116, 117), which cover the department’s general areas of music history distribution (Western European Tradition, Multi-cultural Traditions, Jazz and Popular Music); three upper-level courses in music history and culture or music theory; and one course credit based on four terms in a single section of MUSC-100 Music Performance. Students are limited to a total of 4 performance credit hours. They may take a zero credit option to ncontinue participatin in a performance ensemble. To complete the Senior Capstone Project, students may choose between a research project (i.e., a thesis, documentary, or lecture recital) or a semester/summer internship related to their academic interests (e.g., The Kennedy Center, Rolling Stone Magazine, NPR, Sirius/XM Radio, Voice of America, Library of Congress, The Smithsonian, The Washington Post).
Potential majors are advised to take Writing About the Performing Arts (MUSC-161), Diatonic Harmony (MUSC-141) and at least one of the three core courses during the first two years, since these are prerequisites for most upper-level courses.
Theater & Performance StudiesA major in Theater & Performance Studies consists of twelve courses that combine critical and creative inquiry including a production practicum taken three semesters a declared major is in residence. Designed for students interested in theater and performance, social justice, cultural criticism and production, dramaturgy, arts management, American and world cultures, education, and civic engagement, this distinctive major offers special strengths in adaptation and performance, developing and devising new work, interdisciplinary learning about culture, politics and identity through the lens of performance research, community-based performance, play analysis and playwriting, stage direction, cross-cultural ensemble, solo performance, design and multimedia production, and world theater history. Requirements for the degree include: the three core methods courses of Acting I (TPST-120, formerly 020), Play Analysis (TPST-130) and Adaptation and Performance of Literature (TPST-200); at least one of the two core courses in comparative theater cultures and history/theory (TPST-105 and TPST-240); at least one technical theater or design course in the TPST-160–179 course number range; TPST-410, our one-credit Majors Colloquium taken in the senior year; five additional electives of which two must be at the intermediate level or higher (TPST-200 or higher), at least two others of which must be at the advanced level (TPST-300 or higher), and one of which may be at any level and may be fulfilled by a pre-approved study abroad or cognate course taught by a TPST faculty member, an MUSC faculty member, or an Associate TPST Faculty member; and 4 credit hours of the TPST-090–091 Majors Practicum in which students must enroll three semesters they are in residence as a declared major.
Note: All TPST majors will be required to receive a total of 3 credit hours of the TPST Production Practicum before graduating, which may be bundled to create a single 3-credit course. This requirement replaces the previous 80-hour Production and run crew requirement.
Minor Programs: Music, Theater &Performance Studies, and Performing Arts
The requirements for a minor in Music or Theater & Performance Studies include a combination of scholarly and creative courses. The Performing Arts minor is designed for students interested in working in various genres of the performing arts. The Performing Arts minor includes three courses in any one of three disciplines (Theater, Music, or Dance) and three additional courses from any area in the department, including Public Speaking.
It is possible to major in one discipline and minor in another single discipline within the department. However, it is not permitted to combine an American Musical Culture or Theater & Performance Studies major with a Performing Arts minor. For any minor, at least four courses must be taken within the department.
Required Courses for the Major
American Musical Culture
(30 credit hours; 10 courses, plus the Senior Capstone Project)
- Writing About the Performing Arts (MUSC-161)
- 2 music theory courses: Diatonic Harmony (MUSC-141) and a second course numbered 240–259 or 340–359
- 3 of the 4 core courses in music history and culture (MUSC-114 Western European Tradition, MUSC-115 Music in a Multicultural World, MUSC-116 Jazz History, MUSC-117 History of Rock)
- 3 upper-level courses, numbered 200 or higher, in music history and culture (220–239, 260–269, 320–339, 360–369, 420–439) or music theory/composition (240–259, 340–359, 440–459)
- 1 course credit based on 4 semesters in MUSC-100 Music Performance
- Senior Capstone Project
Note: One course may be fulfilled by cognate courses in other fields or study abroad, if approved by Program Director.
Theater & Performance Studies
(34 credit hours; 12 courses including production practicum)
- 3 Core Methods Courses: Acting I (TPST-120), Play Analysis (TPST-130) & Adaptation and Performance of Literature (TPST-200)
- 1 of Crosscultural Performance (TPST-105) or World Theater History (TPST-240)
- 1 Technical Theater or Design Class from TPST-160–179
- 2 Intermediate elective courses 201 or higher
- 2 Advanced elective courses selected from 300–499
- 1 elective course at any level, which may include pre-approved cognate course in a related area (normally taught by TPST Associated Faculty or Faculty in the Music Program) or study abroad course pre-approved by TPST Program Director
- TPST-410 Majors Colloquium (1 credit)
-
& 3 Credit Hours of TPST 090–091 Majors Practicum*
The Production Practicum consists of faculty-mentored coursework as part of the TPST Program’s Home Season in the Davis Center, to be assigned collectively by TPST faculty and staff, with some consideration for student requests. Over the course of each student’s time, every effort will be made to create a broad balance between production work in areas of technical theater and design (including scenery/carpentry, lighting/electrics, costumes, props, sound, digital technology), running crew, and administration/publicity.
Note about Credit and Enrollment for Participation in TPST Productions: Students participating as cast members or in another sustained way throughout the theater process (stage manager, designer, assistant director etc), must enroll for the course assigned to that production) in either the zero or 1-credit option (TPST-190, 191). Students who accumulate three of the 1-credit option can bundle those into a single full course to count toward the TPST major. Students may continue to pursue the 1-credit option for productions but they can only be bundled once.
Note: TPST-120 was previously listed as TPST-020.
Note: Up to three authorized courses may be fulfilled outside the Theater & Performance Studies Program, whether approved transfer credits, study abroad, or cognate courses, including the elective course that may be taken at any level.
Required Courses for the Minor
Music
(18 credit hours; 6 music courses)
- Diatonic Harmony (MUSC-141)
- 1 course in musicology (music history and culture), numbered 110 or higher (MUSC 114–117, 220–239, 320–339, 420–439)
- 4 additional course credits in music, which may include one course credit based on 4 terms in MUSC-100 Music Performance, but may not include MUSC-041 Elements of Music
- Note: One course may be fulfilled by cognate courses in other fields or study abroad, if approved by Program Director.
Theater & Performance Studies
(19 credit hours; 6 courses in Theater &
Performance Studies plus production practicum lab)
- Play Analysis (TPST-130)
- 1 of 3 Methods Courses, selected from TPST-105, TPST-200, TPST-240
- 2 courses at any level
- 2 courses, 200 or higher
-
1-credit hour of Production Practicum lab (TPST-091)
The Practicum component is described above, following the TPST major outline. All TPST Minors will be required to register for at least 1 Practicum credit (TPST-091) before graduating. - Note: Up to two courses may be fulfilled by cognate courses in other fields or study abroad, if approved by TPST Program Director.
Performing Arts
(18 credit hours; 6 courses in Performing Arts)
- 3 courses in any one of three disciplines (Theater, Music, or Dance).
- 3 courses from any area in the department (Music, Theater, Dance or Public Speaking), which may include one 3-credit course based on 4 terms in MUSC-100 Music performance, 3 terms of TPST-191, or 4 terms in ARTD-100 Dance Performance.
(For course listings for Music and Theater see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
PHILOSOPHYAll students in Georgetown College are required to take two courses in philosophy, normally one in the first year and one in the second year. One course must be in ethics and one in non-ethics (an area other than ethics). The first class should be PHIL-010 or 020. If the first class is PHIL-010, the second should be PHIL-150–199 or PHIL-020. If the first class is PHIL-020, the second should be PHIL-100–149 or PHIL-010. The department strongly advises students to take their second philosophy course at the 100-level, especially if they are considering majoring in philosophy.
Major in Philosophy Students who elect philosophy as a major must fulfill the following requirements. They must:
- Complete at least 33 credits of philosophy altogether, of which at least 30 must be at the 100-level or above, and of which at least 21 must be at the 200-level or above;
- Complete the four-credit History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy course (PHIL-384) and the four-credit History of Modern Philosophy course (PHIL-385);
- Complete at least one four-credit Text Seminar preferably by the end of the junior year; and
- Complete at least one course in logic preferably by the end of the junior year.
A major who takes a Bridge course as one of his or her general education courses can satisfy the requirements for the major in as few as ten courses; a major who takes two First Philosophy courses as his or her general education courses will require eleven courses to satisfy those requirements
Advising for majors When declaring a major in philosophy, a student should meet with the Undergraduate Director, who is the faculty advisor to all philosophy majors. Each semester a student’s course selections must be approved by the Undergraduate Director. Majors interested in pursuing graduate studies in philosophy are encouraged to meet with the Undergraduate Director by the middle of junior year. Special circumstances--for example, difficulties resulting from study abroad, or from double majors, or from late declaring, or any other considerations that might call for exceptions to requirements for majors--should be brought to the attention of the Undergraduate Director.
Honors in philosophy In order to receive honors in philosophy, majors must complete the honors program. To qualify for the program, a major must have, at the end of his or her junior year, a 3.5 GPA in philosophy courses taken at Georgetown. Moreover, he or she must have taken at least six philosophy courses at Georgetown, at least three of which are at the 200-level or above. (Transfer students and students participating in study abroad may petition the Undergraduate Director for exceptions to this requirement.) Once admitted to the program, a student spends the entire year writing an honors thesis. Typically during the fall semester, he or she takes a one-credit pass/fail research tutorial, during which he or she writes a detailed thesis proposal, which at the end of the semester is submitted to the Undergraduate Committee. If the Undergraduate Committee approves the proposal, the student proceeds to take a three-credit tutorial in the spring, during which he or she writes the honors thesis. (Students who intend to apply to graduate school in philosophy may take the one credit thesis proposal tutorial in the spring of their junior year and the three-credit thesis tutorial in the fall of senior year.) The thesis must be defended at the end of the semester before a committee appointed by the Undergraduate Director, and if this defense is successful, the student will receive honors in philosophy. Interested students can see the department web page for details, and can contact the Undergraduate Director for further information.
Interdisciplinary study Courses outside the department may sometimes be counted toward a student’s major, but only with the permission of the Undergraduate Director. Such permission should be requested before registering.
Minor in philosophy For a minor in philosophy, a student must complete six courses in philosophy: two general education courses and four additional courses. At least two of these six courses must be at the 200-level or above.
(For course listings for Philosophy see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
PHYSICSThe Physics Department offers two programs for majors, one leading to an A.B. degree and the other to a B.S. degree. The A.B. major is designed for students planning graduate study or employment outside the sciences proper (in fields such as medicine, law, business, journalism, government service, or pre-college teaching). The B.S. major is designed for students planning further study or employment in physics or a related area of science or technology. Both majors are built around a set of five core courses. The core courses and their recommended sequence, for students in either major, are as follows:
First Year Second Year- Relativity and Quantum Physics (PHYS-153, Fall)
- Advanced Laboratory (PHYS-154, Spring)
- Mathematical and Computational Methods (PHYS-155, Spring)
Note: Students who entered Georgetown in Fall 2008 or earlier are subject to a different set of requirements. Please see the department web site for more information.
The A.B. Physics Major requires a minimum of five courses in addition to the core sequence, while the B.S. Physics Major requires a minimum of seven courses in addition to the core sequence. Calculus at the level of MATH-035, 036, and 137 is essential for both majors, and these courses should be taken before or concurrently with PHYS-151, 152, and 153, respectively. A minor in physics consists of the first four courses of the core sequence plus one additional physics course. Any student contemplating a physics major or minor, and whose faculty advisor is not in the Physics Department, is strongly urged to consult with Professor David Egolf as soon as possible.
A.B. Physics MajorStudents considering the A.B. major should begin the core sequence no later than the first term of their second year, and during the first year if possible, to allow more flexibility in choosing electives for the major.
Required Courses- Mechanics (PHSY-151)
- Electromagnetic Phenomena (PHYS-152)
- Relativity and Quantum Physics (PHYS-153)
- Modern Experimental Methods (PHYS-154)
- Mathematical and Computational Methods (PHYS-155)
-
At least one of the following courses:
Intermediate Mechanics (PHYS-251) or
Intermediate E&M (PHYS-252) or
Quantum Mechanics (PHYS-253) or
Statistical Physics (PHYS-254) - Physics elective: 220–299 or >= 400
- Physics elective: >= 220
- Any approved physics or math/science course
- Any approved physics or math/science course
Students considering the B.S. major are strongly encouraged to begin the core sequence during their first year.
Required Courses- Mechanics (PHYS-151)
- Electromagnetic Phenomena (PHYS-152)
- Relativity and Quantum Physics (PHYS-153)
- Modern Experimental Methods (PHYS-154)
- Mathematical and Computational Methods (PHYS-155)
- Intermediate Mechanics (PHYS-251)
- Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism (PHYS-252)
- Quantum Mechanics (PHYS-253)
- Statistical Physics (PHYS-254)
- Independent Research (PHYS-300–309)
- Physics elective: 220–299 or >= 400
- Any approved physics or math/science course
The faculty may award Honors in Physics to majors who have performed exceptionally well both in coursework and in independent research. Students who are awarded Honors in Physics typically have a GPA in physics lecture courses of 3.7 or better. Students must also have exhibited excellence in independent research (including at least six credits of research coursework) and must have presented their work in written and oral forms to the faculty. To be eligible for consideration, a physics major must have completed at least 4 upper-level physics lecture courses (PHYS-220–299 or >= 400), including at least two courses from PHYS-251, 252, 253, and 254.
Physics Minor- Mechanics (PHYS-151)
- Electromagnetic Phenomena (PHYS-152)
- Relativity and Quantum Physics (PHYS-153)
- Modern Experimental Methods (PHYS-154)
- One additional physics course
For the A.B., the B.S., or the minor, PHYS-041 can substitute for PHYS-151, and PHYS-042 for PHYS-152.
(For course listings for Physics see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
POLITICAL ECONOMYThe major in Political Economy exposes students to the rich intersection between economics and politics. Students study the social, political and economic factors that affect, and are affected by, systems of production, exchange, and distribution, as well as the mix of values reflected in them.
At the heart of the major is the methodological and substantive overlap between economics and political science. Methodologically, political economy emphasizes rigorous and frequently quantitative methods, including formal modeling, econometrics and comparative case study methods. Substantively, political economy analyzes how international and domestic political factors interact with macro and micro economic factors to determine outcomes in a wide variety of areas including globalization, international trade and finance, regulation, development, taxes, institutional design, the environment, and income distribution. The scope of inquiry ranges from developed countries, to developing economies, to nations making transitions to market oriented systems.
The strength of the major is its ability to use insights to analyze important issues that do not divide neatly along the classic disciplinary lines of economics and political science. The intellectual enterprise typically goes beyond the constituent disciplines by combining traditional economic concerns about efficiency with traditional political concerns regarding distributional issues and legitimacy in market and nonmarket environments.
The major in Political Economy requires seven foundation courses, two core Political Economy courses and two electives.
Foundation CoursesThree of the following four government courses:
- International Relations (GOVT-006)
- U.S. Political Systems (GOVT-008)
- Elements of Political Theory (GOVT-117)
- Comparative Political Systems (GOVT-121)
Microeconomic Theory (ECON-101)
Either Macroeconomic Theory (ECON-102) or International Finance (ECON-244)
Economic Statistics (ECON-121)
Econometrics (ECON-122) (for the classes of 2010 and after)
Core Political Economy CoursesAnalytical Tools for Political Economy (PECO-201)
The prerequisites for this class are Microeconomic Theory (ECON-101) and one of foundation government courses. Note: ECON-101 has Microeconomic Principles (ECON-001) and Elementary Calculus (MATH-035) as prerequisites.
Capstone in Political Economy (PECO-401)
Electives (2) for Political EconomyAny two of the following classes
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Poverty and Inequity: Millennium Challenges and the World Bank |
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It is not possible for students pursue a double major in Political Economy and either Economics or Government. This is because College regulations prohibit students from taking more than fourteen courses in any one discipline and prohibit students from using any individual course to satisfy the requirements for two majors.
Study AbroadOne or both electives in support of the Political Economy major can be taken abroad with prior approval by the department. To obtain approval please submit a syllabus for the course for which you wish to receive credit to either Profs. Michael Bailey or George Shambaugh in the Government Department or Prof. Luca Anderlini in the Economics Department.
Departmental HonorsIn order to graduate with honors in Political Economy, a student must:
- Earn a cumulative grade point average of 3.33 and a grade point average of 3.67 in the major by the date of graduation.
- Write an honors-quality thesis in the Capstone Course PECO-401. The paper must receive a grade of A from the professor(s) teaching PECO-401 and must also be approved as of “honors quality” by a designated committee.
(For course listings for Political Economy see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
PSYCHOLOGYStudents majoring must take no fewer than ten and no more than fourteen courses in Psychology. The requirements are General Psychology; Research Methods and Statistics; MATH-040; one core course from each of three areas of study; two of the seminar courses; and two courses from the combined offerings of core, seminar, and elective courses. Psychology majors who receive AP credit for General Psychology are required to take an additional psychology elective.
Every Psychology major should consult with one of the Co-Directors of Undergraduate Studies and choose an advisor. Together with their advisors, students are expected to work out a program of electives and cognate courses in other disciplines to provide the course sequence most appropriate to specific goals. A list of courses, with course descriptions, which satisfy the distribution requirements of the major can be found at http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/. Students are encouraged to participate in independent research activities, particularly if they plan to attend graduate school. The Psychology Department also hosts an Honors Program.
In planning their programs, majors should keep in mind that no more than 14 courses in Psychology may be counted toward graduation. Further advice on developing a program of study is contained in the Handbook for Psychology Majors and Minors available online.
Students who wish to enroll for credit in Psychology courses on another campus must first obtain permission from their dean and from their academic advisor. Ordinarily, Research Methods and Statistics must be taken on the Georgetown campus.
In addition to the normal degree requirements, the A.B. Psychology Pre-Medical program includes: Introductory Biology, Elementary Physics, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Calculus. Professor Moghaddam is a member of the Georgetown University Pre-Medical Committee and can advise Pre-Medical students.
Required Courses- 1 General Psychology
- 1 Research Methods and Statistics
- 1 Probability and Statistics
- 3 core courses (one from each of three areas of study)
- 2 seminar courses
- 2 courses from the combined offerings of core, seminar, and elective courses
Psychology minor The requirements are General Psychology; one core course from each of three areas of study; and two courses from the combined offerings of core, seminar, and two elective courses (a minimum of six courses).
(For course listings for Psychology see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRSThe Minor in Science, Technology and International Affairs, offered by the College in connection with the Science, Technology and International Affairs (STIA) Program of the School of Foreign Service, is designed to provide policymaking training to students who already have a strong math and science background. All majors or minors in chemistry, physics, biology, biochemistry, or computer science in Georgetown College, who wish to broaden their understanding of the impact of science and technology on society, and the mutual influence of economics, politics and culture on science and technology and vice versa, are eligible for a minor in Science, Technology, and International Affairs. Interested math majors or minors may also apply, but they must plan a curriculum jointly with their math and STIA advisors. Students who complete the eight premedical courses (General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Introductory Physics, and Introductory Biology) would also be eligible, regardless of their major.
Requirements for the Minor are as follows:- Science and Technology in the Global Arena (STIA-305)
- Principles of Microeconomics (ECON-001)
- International Relations (GOVT-006)
- Three elective courses from ONE of the STIA subfields: Environment and Energy; Science, Technology, Growth and Development; Biotechnology and Global Health; and Science, Technology and Security. Students may not use science College math or science courses to fulfill these electives.
This minor is subject to the same controls as other minor programs in the College and does not allow any of the six courses in Groups I–III to be counted toward any other degree option.
For the current list of courses, visit http://www.georgetown.edu/sfs/programs/stia/programs/certificate.htm.
(For course listings for Science, Technology and International Affairs see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
SOCIAL AND POLITICAL THOUGHTThe College offers an interdisciplinary minor in Social and Political Thought. This program is designed as an opportunity for students in selected disciplines to have an enriched educational experience that enables them to refine their ability to read, think, write, and speak effectively. The student’s graded performance in the courses taken for the minor, and most particularly in the senior seminar (see below) will reflect the extent to which she/he has achieved the learning goals of the program. Classes are limited in size; a premium is placed on discussion and creative thinking; writing and research skills are actively cultivated; and the courses complement one another in a way that allows for sustained study of issues that cut across disciplinary lines.
The issues that constitute the focus of the program derive from the emergence of the way of studying human experience that is characteristic of modern social science. They are above all philosophical in character, and have to do with the effect that the rise of disciplines like anthropology, economics, political science, and psychology have had on the way people today conceive of the nature and purpose of their existence as human beings.
Requirements for the program include: 1) two integrating courses--an introductory seminar (taken in either the sophomore or the junior year) and a senior seminar; 2) four electives--two of which must be taken outside of the student’s major field: and 3) a senior essay. The senior essay is a revision of a paper that has already been written for a course taken in the program, and is completed as part of the requirements for the senior seminar. It is reviewed by a committee of appropriate faculty.
For further information contact the program co-directors, Professor James Lamiell, Department of Psychology, or Dean Gerald Mara, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.
SOCIOLOGYThe Department of Sociology offers a major and a minor in field of Sociology. Sociology majors may opt for a concentration in Social Justice Analysis.
Students applying to the major in Sociology with a grade of C+ or better in the introductory course will normally be accepted as majors in the department. At its discretion, the department may provisionally admit a student who fails to meet this requirement and then review its decision after the student completes the required theory (SOCI-202) and methods (SOCI-201) classes.
Courses that are cross-listed in Sociology from other departments do not automatically count as Sociology courses. Students should check with the Department’s Undergraduate Program Director.
All majors must register each Fall with the Department. The Undergraduate Program Director (UPD) is the advisor for all majors. Prospective majors and minors must attend an interview with the UPD.
Sociology Major Students majoring in Sociology without a special concentration are required to take ten courses in the Department, including five core courses and five electives. The core consists of: Introduction to Sociology, Methods of Social Research, Sociological Theory, Social Statistics, and Senior Seminar.
Normally, the Theory and Methods courses must be taken first semester of junior year. Social Statistics must be taken the second semester of junior year. For ordinary sociology majors, the Senior Seminar is a requirement of second semester Seniors and is designed to have a significant research and writing component. Majors should also consult with the Undergraduate Program Director in establishing a sequence for the five electives from among the areas of specialization. The Department strongly recommends that students select electives in a least two out of the five areas of specialization.
Sociology Minor Requirements for the minor are Introduction to Sociology, either Methods of Sociological Research or Sociological Theory, plus four electives. It is recommended that the four electives be selected from at least two areas of specialization (see below), but this is not required.
Social Justice Analysis Concentration Sociology majors may opt for a concentration in Social Justice Analysis. The Social Justice Analysis (SJA) concentration is an option for Sociology majors who wish to study social justice issues through the application of sociological theories, research, and experiental learning. Courses in the SJA concentration have been selected because of their substantive focus on structural inequalities and social change, and their use of community-based learning.
For SJA majors, nine courses are required: Introduction to Sociology, Social Justice Analysis: Theory and Practice, Methods of Social Research, Sociological Theory, Social Statistics, Project D.C. (2 semesters), and two electives, at least one of which must be a community-based-learning course in sociology. (Project DC substitutes for the Senior Seminar taken by ordinary Sociology majors.)
Sociology Major Requirements- General education courses
- 1 Introduction to Sociology
- 1 Methods of Social Research
- 1 Sociological Theory
- 1 Social Statistics
- Senior Seminar
- 5 Sociology electives (strongly recommended to cover several specializations)
- Consumer Culture in East Asia
- Education and Society
- Family and Society
- Family Interaction
- Hip Hop Culture
- Identity and Religion
- Law and Society
- Medical Sociology
- Religion and Politics: Global Comparative Study
- Religion and Society
- Sociology of Criminal Justice
- Sociology of Hip Hop
- Sport and Society
- Visual Sociology
- Democratization and Authoritarianism
- Feminist Theory (if taught by a sociologist)
- Globalization and Social Change in Developing Countries
- Globalization, Urbanization, and the Environment
- Modernization and Development
- Philanthropy and Social Change
- Political Economy of Northeast Asian Societies
- Social Entrepreneurship and Change
- Social Movements
- Sociology of Terrorism
- Theater as Social Change
- Visual Sociology and Consumer Technology
- Women and Development
- Introduction to Sociology
- Methods of Sociological Research or Sociological Theory
- 4 electives (recommended to cover at least two areas of concentration)
(For course listings for Sociology see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses)
THEOLOGYStudents majoring in Theology focus on one of four concentrations and must set up a program with the advisor designated for each concentration:
Christian Theology Concentration This concentration provides a grounding in the sacred writings, history, and systematic elaboration of the Christian faith. The requirements are: three core courses (one course in Systematic Theology 272; one Scripture Seminar in the 257–259 or 266–268 range; one History of Christian Thought, either 281 or 282), three other advanced level courses to be selected in consultation with the designated theology advisor for this concentration, two other approved courses on either the intermediate or advanced level, and the Senior Seminar in Religious Pluralism 297.
Biblical Studies Concentration This program is designed for students who wish to study extensively the books of the Bible, the traditions contained therein, the process of their formation, as well as the methodology for uncovering their meaning. The requirements are: three core courses (Approaches to the Bible 190; one Hebrew Scripture Seminar in the 257–259 range; one New Testament Seminar in the 266–268 range), three other advanced level courses to be selected in consultation with the designated theology advisor for this concentration, two other approved courses on either the intermediate or advanced level, and the Senior Seminar in Religious Pluralism 297.
Ethics Concentration This concentration is designed for students who wish to be introduced to the sources, methods, and topics of ethics from a religious perspective. Students may concentrate on the Christian tradition or on religious ethics more generally, and may also focus further on areas such as social justice, liberation movements, comparative ethics, or social and cultural issues. The requirements are: three core courses (one introductory course, Ethics and Issues 076 or 100; one course in Sources for Religious Ethics: Scriptures, Theologies, and Traditions; one advanced level ethics course in the 200 range and above), two other advanced level courses, three other approved courses on either the intermediate or advanced level, and the Senior Seminar in Religious Pluralism 297. All courses are to be selected in consultation with the designated theology advisor for this concentration.
Religious Studies Concentration This concentration is available for students interested in the comparative and critical study of various religious views (e.g., Asian Religions, Religions of the Middle East, or Comparative Methodologies in the Study of Religions); or in philosophical theology; or in the relation of religious ideas to their social and historical context; or in the relation of religion to other components of culture such as science, the arts, or the structures of governance. The requirements are: three core courses (Approaches to Religion 273; one course in the Study of a Religious Community in the range of 200 or above; one course in Problems/Boundaries in Religious Studies in the range of 200 or above), five additional courses on the intermediate or advanced level to be selected in consultation with the designated theology advisor for this concentration, and the concluding seminar on Religious Pluralism (297).
A Senior Honors Thesis (THEO-310) may be undertaken by all Theology majors under the direction of a faculty mentor with departmental approval. Consult the department website for procedures.
It is recommended that students majoring or minoring in any area of Christian studies fulfill the general education requirements by taking The Problem of God (THEO-001) and Introduction to Biblical Literature (THEO-011). Students majoring or minoring in other areas of religious studies are encouraged to fulfill the general education requirement by taking The Problem of God (THEO-001) and a course in their area of interest.
The concluding seminar, THEO-297, fulfills the requirement of a comprehensive examination.
Theology Minor Requirements include two general education theology courses (001 and 011 are recommended for Christian studies, 001 and another elective for other areas of religious studies) plus four electives. Minors are encouraged to take some courses in the 200 advanced range. Prospective minors are invited to come to the department for advice in selecting their courses. Examples of minor programs are available, some of which are organized around the student’s major.
Required Courses for the Major- Approaches to Religion (273)
- 1 advanced level course in Study of a Community
- 1 advanced level course in Problems/Boundaries in Religious Studies
- 5 other electives approved by advisor
- Seminar on Religious Pluralism (297)
(For course listings for Theology see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDIESGeorgetown College offers both a major and a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies, and the School for Foreign Service offers a certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies (equivalent to a minor). The Women’s and Gender Studies Program provides an interdisciplinary, critical, feminist and cross-cultural exploration of women, gender, and power in a global context. Focusing on the interactions/intersections of race, class, gender and sexuality, Women’s and Gender Studies fosters the generation of knowledge about women in all their diversity and encourages the critical interrogation of traditional academic disciplines.
Using cross-cultural and multi-racial perspectives, the program includes exploration of:
- women’s lives, labor and arts
- structural violence, social justice, and women’s activism in the global context
- the politics of sexuality
- the structural, institutional, legal, and historical meanings of gender
- the history of gender roles and performances
- representations of women in different media
- the impact of gendered analysis on the sciences
- the gendered formation of knowledge
Interested students should contact the Director, Professor Dana Luciano, as early as possible in their sophomore year to plan a program of study.
Women’s and Gender Studies MajorThe major in Women’s and Gender Studies requires a total of eleven courses. In addition to the three foundational courses (Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies, Feminist Theory, and Women’s and Gender Studies Capstone), students must take eight additional electives. The Women’s and Gender Studies Program offers four areas of concentration: Globalization and Poverty, Social Justice and Violence, Sexuality Studies, and Cultural and Media Representations of Gender. Students who major in Women’s and Gender Studies Program must take at least one elective from either Globalization and Poverty or Social Justice and Violence, and one course each in Sexuality Studies and Cultural and Media Representations of Gender. The WGST program also encourages its majors, minors, and certificate students to engage in community service, either independently or through Community-Based Learning courses. Contact program faculty for more information.
The five additional electives are to be chosen by the student. We urge students to take courses that encompass issues of diversity within the U.S. context. Of the total electives required for the major, one must be outside the dominant Western European/North American context; these courses are indicated by an asterisk.
Women’s and Gender Studies Minor/SFS CertificateThe minor/SFS certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies requires a total of six courses. In addition to the three foundational courses (Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies, Feminist Theory, and Women’s and Gender Studies and Gender Capstone), students must take three additional electives of their choosing. We strongly encourage minors to participate in either fourth-credit options or Community-Based Learning (CBL) courses geared to volunteer efforts in women’s organizations or one in which the student uses feminist principles and skills. We also urge minors to consider issues of diversity when constructing their curriculum.
Foundational CoursesWGST-140 Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
WGST-200 Feminist Theory, WGST-201 Feminist Visual Culture or WGST-240 Contexts for Sexuality Study
WGST-399 Women’s and Gender Studies Capstone
This course is offered for 4 credits to majors and 3 credits to minors and certificate students.
Concentrations Within the Women’s andGender Studies Major
While meeting the requirements of the major as stipulated above, students have the option to pursue a program of study within the major, leading to a concentration in one of the following four areas:
- Globalization and Poverty
- Social Justice and Violence
- Sexuality Studies
- Cultural and Media Representations of Gender
A concentration would include the completion of five courses from one of the lists below, of which a minimum of two must be core elective courses offered by the women’s studies program, and as many as three may be cross-listed electives. Upon the approval of the Director of the program, students may count appropriate courses that are not listed here towards the concentration.
AREAS OF CONCENTRATION 1. Globalization and Poverty- Gender and Global Laws
- Gender and International Development*
- Gender and Welfare States: The Era of Globalization*
- Labor/Sexuality/Globalization*
- Women’s International Human Rights*
- Gender and Global Laws*
- Sexual Politics
- Violence/Gender/Human Rights*
- Women and War
- Women and the Law
- Women in American Politics
- Women’s Health in the 21st Century
- Women’s International Human Rights*
- Comparative Black Feminisms
- Contexts for Sexuality Studies
- Labor/Sexuality/Globalization
- Performing Masculinities
- Psychology of Gender
- Sexual Politics
- Women’s Health in the 21st Century
- Athletics and Gender
- Comparative Black Feminisms
- Other Women: Cultural Representations of Gender*
- Performing Masculinities
- Psychology of Gender
- Violence/Gender/Human Rights*
- Women and Depression
- Women and Literature*
The courses with the non-Western emphasis are denoted with an asterisk.
(For course listings for Women’s and Gender Studies see http://explore.georgetown.edu/courses/)
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General Information Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Programs The Faculty of Languages and Linguistics |
Undergraduate Bulletin 2010-2011 Table of Contents
Copyright 2010, Georgetown University.
