Interdisciplinary Programs

University Honors Program

Patricia W. See, Ph.D., Director

Honors Core Professors: Apodaca, Carson, Maier, McGrane, Meyer, Runzo, See, Vajiac.

The Chapman University honors program is an interdisciplinary academic minor comprised of a minimum of 18 credits. Students who complete the minor fulfill the university's inter/multidisciplinary General Education requirement. Entrance into the program requires a separate application.

Minor in University Honors

A successful candidate for the university honors program will exhibit a strong motivation for interdisciplinary studies and an enthusiastic commitment to learning. Applicants typically have a first-rate GPA and highly competitive SAT and ACT scores. Other criteria may include outstanding leadership and/or creative achievement, community involvement and a range of interests and experiences. The program accepts from 25 to 30 students per year and seeks a balance in the student composition, including majors. The program best serves students who approach their education in a mature and responsible manner. Once accepted, students are expected to be active participants in honors activities. Students who complete the minor fulfill the university's inter/multidisciplinary GE requirement. To graduate with a minor in University Honors, students must complete the honors program requirements. Honors classes are only open to students accepted into the honors program.

All students who wish to receive a University Honors minor, which culminates with a capstone senior seminar, must fulfill the requirements listed below. A minimum of 9 credits must be upper-division.

required core courses

five or more from the following

senior seminar (required)

other courses (repeatable for credit)

Course Descriptions – Honors

HON 204 In Search of Knowledge

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. Students explore the art of scientific investigation and inquiry, with an emphasis upon the process and methodology of science. The development of scientific thought is chronicled, with particular attention given to science as a great human adventure. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 208 In Search of Universal Geometry

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program or consent of professor. Students will learn elements of Euclidean and non–Euclidean geometries in the context of axiomatic systems. The main objective of this course is to help students develop quantitative and logical skills of mathematical reasoning. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 230 Honors Forum

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. The Honors Forum is a weekly informal meeting over lunch for students and faculty involved in the university honors program. Its purpose is to provide an arena for students to interactively discuss their individual research projects. Also, selected faculty may be invited to lead discussion on a variety of relevant topics. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) 1 credit.

HON 250 Honors Book Forum

Prerequisite, acceptance into the University Honors Program or consent of instructor. Students will examine literary works reflecting various cultural, social and historical milieus. The focus will be on major authors representing diverse perspectives, backgrounds and writing styles. The course will be conducted in a seminar environment with concentrated student participation. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) 1 credit.

HON 300 In Search of Leadership

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. Contrasts Western conceptions of leadership with alternative cultural perspectives emphasizing being, service, community and deep self–awareness. Focuses especially on the purpose, principles and practice of servant–leadership. Includes required weekend retreat. Fee: $200. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 301 In Search of the Meaning of Life

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. This seminar investigates the fundamental values that give meaning to life. Particular attention is given to religious values and life. Students explore what gives life ultimate meaning, what a world view is, and what it means to have faith. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 302 In Search of Self

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. This core course focuses on the most intractable myth of human reality, the myth of the "self." An interdisciplinary approach is utilized: literary, philosophical, psychological, spiritual. Eastern views are also examined. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

HON 303 In Search of Relationships

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. An interdisciplinary core course that explores how humans relate to each other in couples, in families, in other groups, and in society. Approaches include social scientific, historical, comparative, as well as salient works of art, literature, and drama. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

HON 304 In Search of Reality: Media, Self and Society in the 20th Century

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. A critical exploration on both the "objective" and the "personal" level of the phenomenon conventionally labeled "mass media." Where does the media end and myself begin? How does the mass media mix with and permeate the texture of our intimate experience of who we are? (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

HON 305 In Search of People in Nature

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. In this course students will explore the relationship that humans have had with nature across time and transitions from hunting and gathering societies to today's industrial world. These issues will be placed into the theoretical context of sociological and anthropological theory. The course will be conducted in a seminar environment with much student participation. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 306 In Search of American Folklife

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. In this course, students investigate significant themes or movements in literature and culture. Topics vary. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 307 In Search of Cultural Mythology

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. This class will examine definitions of folktales, focusing upon those classified as myths. Mythology is linked to cultural perceptions, values and cosmology. Cross–cultural study of differing mythologies will enhance student appreciation of traditions in literature, oral tradition, and cultural view. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 308 In Search of Global Families

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. An examination of the institution of the family from perspectives of cultures and societies around the globe. The family is a cultural universal and appears in all societies, but varies considerably in structure and function. This course relates the family to the structure and function of the larger society, especially the political economy. Focuses upon the forms marriage and family take in diverse societies through the lens of globalization, social change and migration. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 329 Honors Experimental Course

Prerequisite, acceptance into the University Honors Program or consent of instructor. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 395 Topics in Honors

Prerequisite, acceptance into the University Honors Program or consent of instructor. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

HON 399 Individual Study

(Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

HON 430 Honors Forum

(Same as HON 230.)

HON 450 Honors Book Forum

(Same as HON 250.)

HON 490 Independent Internship

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. P/NP. (Offered every semester.) 1–3 credits.

HON 498 Capstone Senior Seminar

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. In this capstone seminar, each honors student will be required to complete a significant project, either a research paper providing evidence of the student's grasp of his or her discipline and/or a portfolio analysing and tying together the student's college career. This may entail a presentation to the honors faculty and students. Choice of topic will be made in consultation with the honors director and the student's major advisor. The purpose of this seminar is to provide a supportive environment for the completion of this project. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

HON 499 Independent Study

Prerequisite, acceptance to the honors program. The student initiates and conducts a study on a specific topic in conjunction with an individual faculty member. Might count for credit toward major. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) ½–6 credits.

Honors Satellite Courses (Active courses for students on catalogs through 2006)

These courses are offered by other departments and are cross-listed with honors. The syllabi can be found under the primary department offering the course.

HON 346 Topics in Honors Travel Courses

HON 351 Topics in Social and Historical Issues

HON 352 Topics in Cross-Cultural Studies

HON 353 Topics in Philosophy and Religion

HON 354 Topics in Literature and Film

HON 355 Topics in Science and Technology

HON 356 Topics in Art and Communication

Leadership Studies Program

Mark Maier, Ph.D., Director

Instructors: Padulo, Resurreccion.

The Chapman University leadership studies program is a university-wide academic minor offered through the Chancellor's Office that provides education about and for leadership within a core curriculum that is nationally recognized. The program consists of 24 credits, at least 3 credits of which overlap (double-count) with the student's major.

Minor in Leadership Studies

The leadership studies minor at Chapman aspires to exemplify the institution's commitment to "Building Character; Transforming Lives." The program offers a unique opportunity for Chapman students to enhance their understanding and practice of leadership, emphasizing not only preparation for work, but education for life. Participants' leadership capacities are expanded by blending classroom learning and theory with experiential exercises, simulations, self-assessments, case studies, field trips and retreats. The leadership studies minor is a natural fit for students seeking a meaningful and practical complement to their chosen major while fulfilling numerous general education (GE) requirements. It is particularly appropriate for students motivated to make a positive difference in the world through their lives and work, students who share a desire to learn … to lead … to serve.

In alignment with the university's vision, mission, and guiding principles and its general education goals, the program promotes four key learning outcomes: (1) an understanding of the theory and practice of leading as a way of serving and values-based leadership; (2) increased self-awareness (leading as a way of both being and doing); (3) how to leverage individual differences and unite around a common purpose to create high-performing teams; and (4) critical thinking, ethical practice and social responsibility.

Admission to the program is selective and by nomination only: Interested students who have completed at least 15 credits (1 semester) and are in good academic standing are encouraged to apply. The application is accompanied by a recommendation from a university mentor (e.g., faculty member, academic advisor, coach, or campus administrator). Application and nomination forms are available from the leadership studies program office and the Office of the Chancellor.

All students who wish to pursue a minor in leadership studies, which culminates in a 6-credit capstone (seminar + applied leadership experience), must fulfill the requirements listed below and remain in good academic standing. All courses must be completed for a letter grade where the option exists and passed with a "C-" or higher. Students graduating with a GPA of 3.700 or above in the minor may be eligible for program honors and commendation. The program also bestows the annual Robert K. Greenleaf Award on the student or students who, in the view of program faculty, have best exemplified the principles and practice of servant-leadership in their time at Chapman, either through service to the campus or to the outside community.

core courses (12 credits)

lower-division foundation (3 credits)

one of the following

upper-division core (6 credits)

values in action/ethical practice application (3 credits)

one of the following

electives (6 credits)

LEAD elective (3 credits)

one of the following

LEAD-related major elective (3 credits)

one of the following

(Other courses may apply: consult with leadership program office):

business, communication, or public relations majors - select one

film and television majors - select one

liberal arts, liberal studies or athletic training majors - select one

performing arts majors - select one

capstone: theory and practice of leadership (6 credits)

leadership practice/application

one of the following (*):

leadership theory/integration (**):

other courses

(*) Upon consultation with and written consent of the program director, students in majors (or other minor programs) offering or requiring internships may substitute a 3 credit internship or fieldwork from their major/minor (e.g., BIOL 490, BUS 490/493, COM 490, CHEM 490, EDUC 295, ESCI 490, MUS 495, SOC 492, etc.)

(**) Upon consultation with and written consent of the program director, students in majors (or other minor programs) requiring a Capstone Course or Seminar may substitute that capstone (e.g., BUS 495, COM 498, ENG 498, HIST 496/498, HON 498, LBST 497, SOC 498, WMST 498, etc.)

Course Descriptions – Leadership Studies

LEAD 101 Introduction to Leadership: Principles and Practices

A survey of essential leadership principles and practices through classical and contemporary readings drawn from the humanities and social sciences. Topics include: vision, decision-making, team–building, ethics, and servant–leadership. May include participation in a co–curricular leadership project. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

LEAD 200 Methods of Critical Inquiry

Prerequisite, LEAD major or minor. Examines knowledge and social science research in relation to leadership and organization studies. Application of empirical/scientific method, logic, interpretation and other ways of knowing (e.g., received knowledge, subjective knowledge/opinion, procedural knowledge, etc.) Development of research, writing, and presentation skills. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

LEAD 225 Leadership/Experiential Laboratory

Same as LEAD 325.

LEAD 229 Experimental Course

(Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

LEAD 275 History and Theories of Leadership

Examines leadership from theoretical, historical, and practical perspectives. Topics may include: Trait, behavioral, and contingency theories; the influence process; management vs. leadership, and leadership and followership. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

LEAD 300 Leading as a Way of Serving

Prerequisite, one of the following: LEAD 101, or 275, or consent of instructor. Contrasts Western views of leadership with feminist, Native American, and Eastern perspectives anchored in ethic of service and deep self–awareness. Topics include: achievement addiction; servant leadership; personal gifts, values and mission. Includes participation in a Zen retreat. Fee: $225. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

LEAD 314 Developing Effective Teams

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership, or consent of instructor. Explores the theory and practice of team–based leadership. Reviews evidence on the benefits of collaboration (e.g., better performance, greater diversity, higher morale). Topics may include: team building, conflict resolution, communication, emotional intelligence, understanding temperament and interaction styles. Includes participation in an adventure–based retreat activity. Fee: $225. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits.

LEAD 315 The Multi–Cultural Organization: Gender and Diversity Issues in the Workplace

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership, or consent of instructor. Explores importance of valuing cultural differences in the workplace particularly as applied to leadership, communication, teamwork, decision–making, and problem–solving. Reading, writing, research, and discussion are supplemented with exercises, role–plays and simulations. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits.

LEAD 320 Great Leaders: Ethics, Passion & Service

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership or consent of instructor. Explores the role and origins of personal integrity, passion, and commitment to service in leadership. Examines the nature of leadership by delving into the psyche of leaders like Mahatma Ghandi, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Films, readings, case studies, and research into a famous leader's life and experiences. (Offered fall semester.) 3 credits.

LEAD 325 Leadership/Experiential Learning Laboratory: Civic Engagement Initiative

Prerequisite, leadership role (on- or off-campus), or consent of instructor. Develops participants' leadership skills and insight into leadership practices through civic engagement, experiential activities, self-assessments, and/or student co-facilitations. Especially relevant for students in on- or off-campus leadership roles or engaged in social justice projects. 40 hours of total effort (combined class-time, reflection and writing, and on-site experience time) are required per credit hour. P/NP. May be repeated for credit; for a maximum of 7 credits. (Offered every semester.) 1-3 credits.

LEAD 329 Experimental Course

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership, or consent of instructor. (Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

LEAD 330 The Chapman Leadership Forum

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program. The Leadership Forum is a bi-weekly informal meeting over lunch for students, faculty and staff involved in the University Leadership Studies program. Its purpose is to provide an arena for students to interact and discuss leadership issues and challenges facing them and/or our community and nation. Selected faculty, staff, or administrators may be invited to lead a discussion on a variety of relevant topics. May also include a Service-Learning project. May be repeated for up to 3 credits. P/NP. (Offered fall and spring.) 1 credit.

LEAD 390/392 Service in Action Internship

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership or consent of instructor. Hands–on civic engagement or service–learning project in which students "invest their humanity" by "seeking and finding how to serve" (Schweitzer). Students apply principles of servant–leadership to link serving and learning through on–going journaling, contextual analysis and reflective analysis of their experience. 40 hours of total effort (combined class–time, reflection and writing, and on–site experience time) are required per credit hour. (Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

LEAD 395 Selected Topics in Leadership Studies

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership, or consent of instructor. Covers special topics related to leadership and/or organization studies, subject to emerging situational, student and/or employer demands. Topics vary. May be repeated for credit provided course content is different. (Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

LEAD 396 Women's Ways of Leading

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership, or consent of instructor. Examines gender differences in the practice of leadership, communication, ethical decision–making, and moral development. Topics include women's approaches to influence, power, collaboration, leadership relationships, change, service, conflict and competition, and the forging of mutual purposes. (Offered interterm.) 3 credits.

LEAD 490 Leadership in Action, Internship

An independent practicum in which a student develops a learning contract in conjunction with an on–site supervisor and a Chapman leadership faculty advisor. 40 hours of total effort are required per credit hour of LEAD 490. P/NP. (Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

LEAD 492 Leadership in Action, Seminar Internship

Seminar–based practicum in which interns meet regularly as a group with a faculty member to share, discuss and evaluate their experiences. P/NP. (Offered as needed.) 1–3 credits.

LEAD 495 Selected Topics in Leadership and Organization Studies

(Same as LEAD 395.)

LEAD 498 Integrative Seminar

Prerequisite, admission to the Leadership Studies Program and senior standing. Students prepare a comprehensive assessment of their learning and development in the program, culminating in an integrative project that links the leadership minor to the major program of study and includes their personal theory of leadership and how it is/will be put into practice. May be waived for students completing capstone courses or seminars in other programs. (Offered spring semester.) 3 credits.

LEAD 499 Individual Study

Prerequisites, junior standing, and admission to the Leadership Studies Program, or declared cluster in leadership, and consent of instructor. Students engage in directed reading and/or research and then write a major paper on a special problem or topic related to leadership and organization studies. Intended for junior and senior students only. May be repeated for up to 6 credits. (Offered every semester.) 1–3 credits.