Honors Program Courses

How to graduate with a minor in University Honors

Choose five or more  from the following core courses:

• HON 208:  In Search of Universal Geometry - 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. (3 credits)
• HON 300:  In Search of Leadership - 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  fee for a required weekend retreat. (3 credits)
• HON 301: In Search of the Meaning of Life - 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. (3 credits)
• HON 302: In Search of Self - This 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. (3 credits)
• HON 303: In Search of Relationships - This  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. (3 credits)
• HON 304: In Search of Reality: Media, Self and Society in the 20th Century - A critical exploration on both the “objective” and the “personal” level of the phenomenon conventionally labeled “mass media.” Where does the media end and self begin? How does the mass media mix with and permeate the texture of our intimate experience of who we are? (3 credits) 
• HON 305: In Search of People in Nature - 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. (3 credits)
• HON 306: In Search of American Folklife - Students investigate significant themes or movements in literature and culture. Topics vary. (3 credits) 
• HON 307: In Search of Cultural Mythology - This class will examine definitions of folktales, focusing upon those classified as myths. Mythology is liked 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. (3 credits)
• HON 308: In Search of Global Families - 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 related 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. (3 credits)

Plus the required capstone senior seminar, which must be taken to complete the Honors minor.

• HON 498: Capstone Senior Seminar - In this capstone senior 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. (3 credits)

TOTAL CREDITS IN MINOR:  minimum of 18

Other honors courses repeatable for credit but not counted toward minor requirement:

• HON 230/430: Honors Forum -  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. (1 credit)
• HON 250/450: Honors Book Forum - Students will examine literary works reflecting various cultural, socil 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. 
• ENG 104- Honors Section -- Check with Honors office on which section is designed for Honors students.

 Honors classes offered for the Spring 2008 semester.