First-Year Course Descriptions
ANTHROPOLOGY
ANTH 1013 – Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
This is an introduction to the study of contemporary cultures and languages and to the methods of ethnographic fieldwork.
ANTH 1023 – Introduction to Biological Anthropology
An introduction to the study of humans as a biocultural species. The focus of this course is on human evolution, human variation and genetics, nonhuman primates, and the work of physical anthropologists.
AQUINAS
AQEN 1006 – Introduction to Literature
An introduction to the range and variety of literature in English, to the practice of critical reading, and to writing about ideas and texts in conventional academic language and forms. The course concentrates on the central genres of literature.
AQPH 1006 – Introduction to Western Philosophy
An introduction, through lecture, reading of original sources, and discussion, to the origins and development of western philosophy. The first part of the course studies this tradition from its beginnings in ancient Greece through the Christian Middle Ages. Authors read include Plato, Aristotle, St. Augustine, and St. Thomas Aquinas. Themes include the nature of reality, the nature of human being and human knowledge; moral and political philosophy; the existence and nature of God. The latter part of the course continues the survey of developments in western philosophy, from the early modern period to contemporary discussion. The focus is on rationalism, empiricism, idealism, and the reactions these provoked.
AQPO 1006 – Introduction to Political Science
This course is normally taught as part of the Aquinas Programme. Through the study of a small number of core texts, it provides an introduction to some of the key questions at the centre of political life. The course provides students with a solid foundation in the history of political thought. It also concentrates on the development of the skills in logical analysis, writing, and political argument necessary for upper-level courses in the discipline.
BIOLOGY
BIOL 1503 – Principles of Biology I
This course introduces students to the study of life. Topics include the scientific method, biological molecules, cell structure and function, energy flow, respiration, and photosynthesis.
BIOL 1513 – Principles of Biology II
This course examines mitosis, meiosis, and genetics. Surveys the structure, function, and evolution of the kingdoms of life. Discusses the basics of ecology, culminating in ecological interactions and the impact of humans on the planet.
COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC POLICY
COPP 1013 – Introduction to Communications
This course introduces students to the history and evolution of the communications profession, with particular emphasis on communications in the public policy sphere, from the pioneers who sold ideas on behalf of their clients, to the modern world of two-way communications with the public through the internet and social media tools. The course will explore how this evolution is changing the way governments, politicians, non-governmental organizations, citizens groups and corporations interact with the public.
COPP 1023 – Introduction to Policy Studies
This course introduces students to the policy making process, how policies are researched, drafted, legislated, and communicated. The course will also explore how non-governmental organizations, citizens groups and corporations influence public policy.
CRIMINOLOGY
CRIM 1013 – Introduction to Criminology
This course is designed to introduce the student to the discipline of criminology: its origins, the nature of disciplinary debates, and a sampling of theoretical and methodological issues. It involves an examination of crime patterns, causes of criminal behavior and crime prevention strategies. This course also introduces the student to core topics covered in electives in the second year: courts, young offenders, police, corrections, and victimology. This introductory course is a prerequisite for all upper-level courses.
CRIM 1023 – Introduction to Criminal Justice
This course is designed to introduce the student to the role criminology plays in both formulating and critiquing criminal justice policy and a sampling of theoretical and methodological issues. It involves a critical look at the nature of the criminal justice system, the role of the state and the creation of policies through the passing of bills, legislation, and statutes pertinent to the interpretation of the Criminal Code. This course also introduces the student to core topics covered in electives in the second year: courts, young offenders, police, corrections, and victimology. This introductory course is a prerequisite for all upper-level courses.
ECONOMICS
ECON 1013 – Introduction to Economics (Micro)
This course, which is equivalent to one half of ECON 1006, examines the behaviour of consumers and producers in a market economy. Among the issues discussed will be environmental protection, wealth and poverty, and the extent of corporate power.(Credit will not be given for both ECON 1006 and ECON 1013.)
ECON 1023 – Introduction to Economics (Macro)
This course, which is equivalent to one half of ECON 1006, analyzes the Canadian economy and how it works. It includes a discussion of output, unemployment, growth, money, international trade, and finance. (Credit will not be given for both ECON 1006 and ECON 1023.)
ENGLISH
ENGL 1016 – English Literatures
An introduction to literatures in English including, but not restricted to, the British literary canon. It teaches students to read and write effectively, and to locate texts in history and culture. The course includes a chronological introduction sensitive to the structures and intersections of literary periods. NOTE: students will not receive credit for both ENGL 1023 and ENGL 1016.
ENGL 1023 – Introduction to the Study of Literature
This course introduces students to the conventions of literary study. It offers reading strategies and techniques that permit the student to make sense of difficult or alien readings. At the same time, the ability to communicate understanding of literary texts through the conventions of scholarly essay writing is emphasized. Students will not only become effective readers and communicators in this course-they will come to appreciate some of the most important literary texts that the English language has produced. Note: students will not receive credit for both ENGL 1023 and ENGL 1016.
ENGL 1233 – Digital Literacy
Students will learn, use, and critique digital productivity tools, multimedia and website development tools, and Web 2.0 tools, while they apply literary methodologies to broader issues and debates like cyber safety, digital privacy laws and ethics, the economic and social engineering implications of user-data, as well as modes of digital communication and collaboration. Familiarity with critical theories and historical trends will help students understand how social and political movements develop the form, genre, and style of digital platforms.
ENVIRONMENT AND SOCIETY
ENVS 1013 – Understanding Environmental Problems
Earth systems science reveals that the environmental conditions that supported the development of human civilization over the past 10,000 years are becoming increasingly destabilized. This course introduces students to the Earth's regulatory systems such as climate, nitrogen and phosphorus flows, forests, oceans and biodiversity, and the social structures and processes that are interfering with them. Students will come to understand that environmental problems cannot be solved by individual behavioral changes; solutions will require collective action to achieve systemic change.
ENVS 1023 – Environmental Praxis I
Praxis can be understood as reflection and action for social change. Drawing on learning in ENVS 1013, students will investigate how global environmental problems are manifested at the local level. They will then develop local action strategies to effect change in those systems. This approach will foster citizenship skills and empower students in the face of global problems. This course will qualify for the STU Experiential Learning Certificate. Prerequisite: ENVS 1013.
ENGLISH SECOND LANGUAGE
ESL 1013 – English for Academic Purposes: Reading and Writing I
This course helps students whose first language is not English develop the reading and writing skills required in university studies. The reading techniques to be taught will include skimming, previewing, predicting and in-depth analyzing. The types of writing practiced will be summaries, paraphrases and essays (expository, and comparison and contrast). Vocabulary-building and grammar will also be important components of the course. Co-requisite: ESL 1033.
ESL 1023 - English for Academic Purposes: Reading and Writing II
This course will help students whose first language is not English further develop academic reading and writing skills. The reading techniques to be improved will include skimming, previewing, predicting and in-depth analyzing. The types of writing practiced will be summaries, paraphrases and essays (cause and effect, and persuasive). Vocabulary-building and grammar will also be important components of the course. Students will also develop their ability to conduct library-based research and to synthesize information for writing assignments. Prerequisite: ESL 1013 or Director's permission. Co-requisite: ESL 1043.
ESL 1033 - 1033. English for Academic Purposes: Speaking and Listening I
This course helps students whose first language is not English to develop the speaking and listening skills required in university studies. The basic elements of oral expression and comprehension will be studied: sounds, word and sentence stress, rhythm, intonation, comprehension of weak forms, and connected speech. Listening skills will include intensive, selective and interactive tasks, such as note-taking. Speaking functions will include presenting information, asking questions, debating. 6 hours per week. Co-requisite: ESL 1013.
ESL 1043 - English for Academic Purposes: Speaking and Listening II
This course helps students whose first language is not English to develop the speaking and listening skills required in university studies. The basic elements of oral expression and comprehension will be studied: sounds, word and sentence stress, rhythm, intonation, comprehension of weak forms, and connected speech. Listening skills will include intensive, selective and interactive tasks, such as note-taking. Speaking functions will include presenting information, asking questions and debating. 6 hours per week. Prerequisite: ESL 1033 or Director's permission. Co-requisite: ESL 1023.
FINE ARTS
FNAR 1023 – Music Theory and Performance
The course examines the basic elements of music (notation, intervals, keys, scales, chords, meter) from a practical, hands-on perspective and introduces music theory and performance. Assignments include recognizing notes and rhythms on the staff, singing, and playing instruments. Please note that previous music experience is welcome but not required for this course. Note: Students who take FNAR 1023 cannot receive credit for FNAR 1743.
FNAR 1083 – Voice Technique
This course is an in-depth exploration of voice technique. During the course, students will do exercises to develop their breathing, phonation, resonance, and articulation skills. Students will also examine the physiology of the voice and expand their awareness of how the voice works, vocal problems, and vocal care and health. In addition, students will perform songs from popular music styles such as musical theatre, rock, pop, and gospel for a public audience. All levels welcome. Prerequisites: FNAR 1023 or FNAR 1743 or permission of the Instructor.
FNAR 1113 – Practical Introduction to Art Fundamentals
This course is a practical introduction to concepts, basic materials, processes and the vocabulary of art and design delivered through slide lectures, readings and assigned projects. The concepts introduced in this course are applicable to a wide range of art and design practices. There are special presentations including visiting artist presentations, film screenings and trips to art galleries.
FNAR 1231 – Dance Technique
This course offers students fundamental training in jazz and contemporary dance. During the course, students will develop strength, flexibility, muscular control, endurance, and discipline; improve their technical proficiency in a variety of dance styles; learn dance terminology; cultivate their performance skills; and examine the contributions of significant choreographers from 1900 to the present. The course culminates in a public performance. The instructor will adapt exercises to the abilities of individual students. All levels welcome. Prerequisite: Instructor's consent
FNAR 1333 – Drawing and Sketching
A practical course in the fundamentals of two-dimensional art practice with an emphasis on outdoor drawing and sketching. Students are introduced to a variety of drawing media including the use of pencil, charcoal, and ink. Landscape, figure and non-representational drawing practice are addressed. No prior experience is necessary. Prerequisite: FNAR 1113.
FNAR 1633 – Drawing and Sketching II
A practical course in the fundamentals of two-dimensional art practice with an emphasis on outdoor drawing and sketching in various media. Pre-requisite: FNAR 1333, Drawing and Sketching I or FNAR 1113, Practical Introduction to Art Fundamentals.
FNAR 1733 – Introduction to Musical Theatre
Introduction to Musical Theatre is a primer for students who are curious about performing musical theatre and would like the opportunity to enhance their skills in a supportive environment. This course introduces students to the three core skills required of musical theatre performers: singing, acting, and dancing. The course stresses development through individual and group exercises in physical and emotional awareness, movement, scene study, character creation and voice technique. The class will culminate in a studio performance of standard pieces of the musical theatre repertoire. Co-requisite: FNAR 1743: Music Literacy for Actors and Dancers.
FNAR 1743 – Music Literature for Actors & Dancers
Music Literacy for Actors and Dancers is a course for the performer who has not yet developed a connection between his or her musical experience and standard aspects of musical performance, with a special focus on the acquisition of fluency reading the notated score and the development of effective study and practice habits. Music materials used in class or assigned for homework will be spoken, clapped, sung, and played. Co-requisite: FNAR 1733 Intro to Musical Theatre. Note: Students who take FNAR 1743 cannot receive credit for FNAR 1023.
FRENCH
FREN 1016 – Langue Française I
This course is designed for students entering university who achieved a score of Basic, Basic+ or Intermediate in French in high school. The aims of this course are listening comprehension, basic oral expression, elementary reading, writing and grammar. In addition, students are required to attend a one-hour compulsory monitor session per week.
FREN 1026 – Langue Française II
This course is designed for students entering university who achieved a score of Intermediate+ or Advanced in French in high school. The course has a strong reading component with material drawn from a variety of sources in the Francophone world. It emphasizes the four skills: oral practice, reading, writing and listening comprehension. This course is not open to students who have graduated from a French or Francophone school. The department invites these students to register into a 2000-level French course.
GERONTOLOGY
GERO 1013 – Introduction to Gerontology I
This course explores aging from a multidisciplinary perspective. Topics include myths and realities of aging; population aging globally and locally; the intersections of age with gender, ethnicity and class; the physical and psychological aspects of growing older; as well as key concepts in gerontological theory.
GERO 1023 – Introduction to Gerontology II
This course examines the various factors that impact growing older in Canadian society. Topics to be discussed include: health care, pensions, housing, transportation, family life, social support and death and dying.
GREAT BOOKS
GRBK 1006 – Great Thinkers and Writers
This course explores how great books address perennial human questions about knowledge, nature, love, justice, and freedom. The course is team-taught by two faculty members and prioritizes conversation over lecture. Together we read a range of great books from the ancient world up to the present day, such as novels by writers like Jane Austen and Toni Morrison, classical works by Homer, Plato and Augustine, and influential works of political thought by Aristotle, Nietzsche and Hannah Arendt.
HISTORY
HIST 1123 – Food in World History
This course explores how food was made, consumed, and understood in the past. What did food and eating mean to different people at different times, in different places? How did everyday foods, like sugar or potatoes, travel around the world? What impacts did human-made and natural disasters have on eating habits and food supplies, and how did the presence and absence of food influence people's behaviour? In this course, students learn to connect local and global interactions, past events, and the present through food. (formerly HIST 2123). Students who have taken HIST 2123 cannot take this course for credit.
HIST 1133 – Pre-Colonial Africa
Precolonial Africa explores the history of Africa up to the nineteenth century. Topics covered include Africa's place in hominid evolution, Africa's contribution to the Neolithic revolution, rise of the states versus stateless societies, traditional religion versus world religions, coastal societies versus inland societies, long-distance trade and the rise of empires, and domestic slavery versus transoceanic slavery and their effects on development. The objective is to challenge stereotypic notions about precolonial African societies, to contribute to students' understanding of Africa's place in early world history, and to introduce students to some of the key historiographical debates on precolonial African history. (formerly HIST 2133). Students who have taken HIST 2133 cannot take this course for credit.
HIST 1153 – Magic and Demons
What is "magic"? What are "demons"? How have constantly evolving beliefs about the supernatural impacted the course of human history (and vice versa)? This introductory survey explores how various cultures have sought to understand their world through appeal to supernatural forces-around the globe and throughout the ages.
HIST 1173 – Cars in World History
Cars have shaped our world more than any other technology over the past century. Mass motorization created new opportunities for travel and consumption, changed the way people worked, transformed cities, and contributed to rising pollution and climate change. In this course we will explore the car's social, cultural, and environmental impacts on a global scale. (formerly HIST 3173). Students who took HIST 3173 cannot take this course for credit.
HIST 1783 – Screening History
Most of us get our most vivid impressions of history from images, video, and film. This course explores what's behind the screens we watch, so we can consider how visual media presents history in particular ways, and also how we can use visual media to analyze the past. You will get an introduction to some of the challenges and benefits of Screening History. (formerly HIST 3783) Students who have taken HIST 3783 cannot take this course for credit.
HUMAN RIGHTS
HMRT 1003 – Introduction to Human Rights
This course will introduce students to the study of human rights by investigating the question "What are human rights?" The course will proceed primarily through a number of examples and case studies. Students will also be given an overview of the basic instruments, institutions, and ideas relevant to human rights.
ITALIAN
ITAL 1006 – Introduction to Italian
Introduction to the Italian Language. Phonetics, oral training, and conversation. Basic grammar with oral and written exercises. Basic reading and composition. Introduction to Italian civilization with the aid of audio-visual techniques.
JOURNALISM
JOUR 1023 – The Message: Great Stories of Journalism
This course will introduce students to a range of works of print and broadcast Journalism to allow them to understand the scope, purpose, and influence of stories in the journalistic tradition. Students will respond to these works in writing and post their responses in an online discussion forum.
JOUR 1113 – Fundamentals of Effective Writing
Vigorous and clear writing is the foundation for all forms of digital journalism and new media production. This writing intensive course develops fundamental skills for effective writing and storytelling. This is a required course for all students pursuing a major in Digital Journalism and New Media.
LAW, POLITICS, AND SOCIETY
LAPS 1003 – Introduction to Law, Politics and Society
This course will introduce students to the relationships between law, politics, and Canadian society. Students will examine types of law, the judicial system, the legal profession, and the institutional, social, and cultural contexts in which laws are made and enforced. The course will engage students in debates about citizen rights, the policy-making role of courts, Aboriginal peoples and the law, public opinion and the legislative process, media and the law, and other topical issues.
MATHEMATICS
MATH 1013 - Introduction to Calculus I
A review of analytic geometry and functions; derivatives of algebraic functions; mean value theorem; fundamental theorem of calculus; applications of differentiation, including extreme values and related rates; integration; differentials. Three hours of lecture and one tutorial per week. Prerequisite: grade 12 mathematics or equivalent.
MATH 1023 – Introduction to Calculus II
Conic sections; transcendental functions and their derivatives; techniques of integration; areas and volumes; Taylor's theorem. Prerequisite: a grade of C or higher in MATH 1013.
NATIVE STUDIES
NATI 1006 – Introduction to Native Studies
A survey course that introduces students to the discipline of Native Studies. Its purpose is to increase the student's understanding and sensitivity towards the past and present experience of Native peoples. Using both oral and written records, the course will examine pre-contact history and culture, the influences of colonialism in the post-contact era, and contemporary issues.
PHILOSOPHY
PHIL 1013 – What is Philosophy: Intro 1
To do philosophy is to reflect critically on our underlying beliefs (e.g., about reality, knowledge, freedom, responsibility) and to modify whatever doesn't stand up to scrutiny. Whether we realize it or not, the very way we think is shaped by past thinkers -- which is why studying philosophy's history is a crucial part of doing philosophy. In this course, we will focus on Ancient and Medieval thinkers as we strive to evaluate our views critically. This course has no prerequisite.
PHIL 1023 – What is Philosophy: Intro 2
To do philosophy is to reflect critically on our underlying beliefs (e.g., about reality, knowledge, freedom, responsibility) and to modify whatever doesn't stand up to scrutiny. Whether we realize it or not, the very way we think is shaped by past thinkers -- which is why studying philosophy's history is a crucial part of doing philosophy. In this course, we will focus on Modern and Contemporary thinkers as we strive to evaluate our views critically. This course has no prerequisite.
PHIL 1073 – Robot and Animal Ethics
Should we have sex with robots? Is it okay to use a robot prostitute? Can we force them to serve us or use them in warfare? And what about animals-do they have rights? Should we eat them, experiment on them or stick them in zoos? These are some of the fascinating and strangely important questions to be addressed in this course. We will learn how to do philosophy by thinking about the social, psychological and ethical implications of our relationships with these two very different kinds of creatures.
POLITICAL SCIENCE
POLS 1013 – Law, Power and Politics
This course is an introduction to the study of politics. It has two objectives. The first is to give students a sense of the meaning and importance of politics. The second is to study a number of the concepts essential to the study of contemporary politics: the state, sovereignty, legitimacy and authority, law, power, equality, democracy, nationality, freedom and citizenship are typically covered. The specific content and readings used vary from section to section.
POLS 1103 – Canadian Government
This course provides an introduction to the concepts of the regime, authority, the rule of law, citizenship, and political obligation. It does so through a consideration of the institutions of Canadian government and covers the following topics: the framing of the constitution, federalism, parliamentary government, the Charter of Rights, the judiciary, political parties, public opinion, interest groups, and constitutional reform.
POLS 1603 – Global Politics
This course provides an introduction to the concepts of nation and state, sovereignty, forms of government, and political conflict. It does so through consideration of issues in world politics, such as human rights and social justice, ecological imbalance, economic inequalities, war, global governmental institutions and organizations.
PSYCHOLOGY
PSYC 1013 – Introduction to Psychology I
This course will introduce a variety of topics within psychology. Topics to be covered include research methods, history of psychology, brain and behaviour, sensation and perception, learning, memory, and cognition.
PSYC 1023 – Introduction to Psychology II
This course will introduce a variety of topics within psychology. Topics to be covered include research methods, developmental psychology, intelligence and creativity, personality, abnormal behaviour and therapy, social psychology, and applied topics.
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
RELG 1006 – Introduction to Religious Studies
A thematic, issues-oriented introduction to the study of religions. Some of the themes and issues explored may include social crisis and renewal, authority and power, sexual diversity, conflict and peace, evil and suffering, death and after death, food and music, among others. By means of these themes, students develop an active appreciation of diverse religious traditions and gain the tools to think critically about them.
SOCIOLOGY
SOCI 1006 – Introduction to Sociology
A survey course that introduces students to the discipline of sociology with particular reference to Canadian Society. This course examines theories and research concerning the nature of social order and conflict in industrial society; the relations between important structures or elements of society, including the economy, family, education, religion, complex organizations, racial and ethnic groups, and the dynamics of social change. Several major theoretical approaches in sociology are compared throughout the course.
SPANISH AND LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES
SPAN 1006 – Beginning Spanish
The beginner's course is designed for students with no previous knowledge of the language. It represents the basic level in the learning of Spanish. Teaching methods and texts will vary from year to year and from instructor to instructor. The aims of the course are the acquisition of (1) listening comprehension, (2) basic vocabulary suitable for everyday conversations, (3) simple grammatical structures, and (4) a knowledge of reading and writing techniques. The basic skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) are emphasized. In addition, each instructor will introduce the students to selected elements of Hispanic Culture. In addition, students are required to attend a one-hour compulsory monitor session per week.