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Course Status (# if 5 or less) SubjectCourseCourse DescriptionCredit HoursAttributesRestrictionsAdvisor Tips and Tricks
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FULLUNIV 101ALive 2 Eat: How diet shapes usOur species evolved over hundreds of thousands of years in environments that were vastly different from the one we live in today. The mismatch of our biology to the current subsistence landscape is a growing threat to human health. Throughout this course, students will explore the evolution of human nutrition and the past environments which shaped it. We will compare and critique past and present diets advertising to optimize this biology, trace the rise of diet-related diseases in the US and elsewhere, and evaluate the most significant contributors to these pressing issues. In addition to the science of nutrition and our biology, we will explore the challenges facing our modern foodways and other industries, including the impact of climate change, the ubiquity of microplastics, and even the role of government subsidies and regulations. This course will include written assignments assessing various “trendy” diets found in today’s culture, as well as a project evaluating the food stamp program (SNAP) in light of our optimal health and current economy. By the end of the course, students will have a deep understanding of the intersection of nutrition and evolution. They will have the practical tools to be informed consumers and make knowledgeable dietary choices, while also being aware of the factors that influence the food industry and the broader implications for human health. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2W
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FULLUNIV 101BAbraham Lincoln & SlaveryThe course explores Abraham Lincoln's evolving position on the critical issues of his time, slavery and race. I have created a collection of primary sources drawn from his speeches, letters, and proclamations, as well as letters, memoirs, and reminiscences of those who knew him that allows us to follow the development of his thinking about and policies with respect to slavery and race from the 1830s through the Civil War. Students get to know Lincoln through his own words and the assessments of the people closest to him, see how his thinking changes, and make their own assessments of his role in emancipation. The course also explores Lincoln's approach to leadership. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101CHistory of the National ParksThis course will be a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the National Parks System from a research perspective. We will examine the political implications and opposition that the system has faced since its time of inception. We will also examine geological, ecological, and environmental challenges that individual parks are facing and how those hardships are being addressed. There will also be a specific focus on the role of African American, indigenous, and immigrants on the establishment of our National Parks. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2WDickinson Community (DNSN)
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FULLUNIV 101DRace, Racism, and GeneticsWhat is race? Students learn about the role of race as an important part of social identity before examining race as a social and political construct influenced and reinforced by bias and structural racism. Our current scientific understanding of the biological basis of human genetic variation demonstrates that there are no biological features that are present in all members of one "race" group and not in others. While race is not a genetically meaningful category, it can still impact biology through the enactment of racist policies and practices - which result in inequities in areas such as healthcare. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101EGlobal Environmental JusticeThis course explores the intersections of environmental, economic, and political change -- and their relation to social and environmental inequality -- since 1492. Key topics include climate patriarchy, environmental racism, colonialism, and social movements in the making of today's ecological crises and their unequal impacts across the world. We will read classic and contemporary texts in global change and environmental justice. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2WOnly new incoming first-year students living in the Dickinson Community can take this class
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FULLUNIV 101FAncient Greek AthleticsAncient Greek athletics continue to resonate with us today. Athletes from across the globe compete in the Olympic games. We exercise at gymnasia. People in modern society have often idealized (and exploited) the amateur athlete. But when we emulate Greek athletics, are we accurate in doing so? This course offers a history of Greek athletics and their relationship with broader society. Key topics are the relationship between ancient Greek athletics and politics, race/ethnicity, gender, social class, and imperialism. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101GSouth Park vs. The World This course will take a deep dive into topical and relevant South Park episodes and apply them to students lives and the culture around them. Turns out you can cover some considerable satirical ground when you're on television for 25+ years, and this course plans to examine the ways in which South Park comments on issues as integral as politics, race, gender, sexuality, social class, and government among many others. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101HData StorytellingThis course will be based on the book Dear Data by Giorgi Lupa and Stefanie Posavec. Students will engage in collecting data from mundane or everyday activities and experiences to then craft data visualizations and narratives through various mediums, such as online visualization tools, by hand, and through writing blogs. This course will further challenge students' perceptions of data and yet support them in discovering ways data can be used in their studies and careers moving forward. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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OPEN (1)UNIV 101ICultivating Queer CommunityThe LGBTQ community has a rich historical culture that spans centuries. Students who identify as LGBTQ as well as allies are encouraged to register for this course in order to explore, in a collaborative classroom setting, a diverse set of topics that are important for understanding this history and the creation of the modern queer community. Topics will include: LGBTQ history, symbols, and iconography; representations in modern media and current events; LGBTQ identities, coming out, and the role of allies; and an exploration of queer theory. Overall, the course is designed to support students' transition to college while taking into account issues and needs that are specific to LGBTQ students. Students will be responsible for weekly readings, participating in group discussion, and various written assignments.
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FULLUNIV 101JJuggling: An IntroductionThis course will both teach students to juggle and study juggling from a variety of angles, drawing upon multiple disciplines across the arts and sciences. Readings, viewings, and discussions will cover: the art of juggling, based on videos of choreographed and scripted performances; the global history and cultural significance of juggling; juggling in literature, art, and popular culture; the math and physics of how juggling works and how jugglers have used such calculations to develop new tricks and patterns; and the science behind the physical and cognitive health benefits of juggling. Evaluation will include several short writing tasks, a "test" for proficiency in at least two juggling skills (live or video), and a live or video presentation, which could be a performance, a demo teaching a skill, or an informative presentation about a juggling-related topic. No prerequisites and no prior juggling skills, level of math, or other knowledge required. The class is geared toward beginners and near-beginners at juggling, from those who have never tried learning to juggle to those who can juggle 3 objects but wish to learn more beginning-to-intermediate tricks, patterns, and props. Advanced jugglers will probably not get much out of it. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2W
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FULLUNIV 101KInnovations for the Modern WorldWhile technology is key to unlocking our understanding of modernity, how we got to where we are is a fascinating tale. The Industrial Revolution and Energy ushered in humanity's first machine age. Progress since then has been primarily driven by technological innovations that have led to the current Fourth Industrial Revolution, or the Computer Age, the world of artificial intelligence and robotics. Starting with an introduction to what has bent the curve of human social development, we discuss six innovations, namely glass, cold, sound, cleanliness, time, light and their history, all of which are at the heart of the computer age which will likewise be discussed. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2W
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FULLUNIV 101LThe Great BalletsThis course will give students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the international ballet repertoire through the study of ten masterpieces: La fille mal gardée, La Sylphide, Giselle, Coppélia, Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Jewels, and Manon. Weekly lectures providing background and cultural context will be supplemented by video and readings from the textbook, Robert Greskovic's Ballet 101: A Complete Guide to Learning and Loving the Ballet. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101MWalt Disney and Modern AmericaDisney is often synonymous with America or American values. The ubiquity of all things Disney pervades life in the twenty-first century United States. From theme parks to movies, merchandise to education, corporatism to ideology, the influence of the Walt Disney Company and the vision of its founder is undeniable. How did it come to be so? The answer to that question can be found in the American past over the course of the last century. This course explores the interrelationship between Disney the person, Disney the brand, and modern American history. Unsurprisingly, Disney generates both blissful happiness and scathing critique. We will critically engage with these and other sentiments about Disney through readings, discussion, and writing. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2W
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FULLUNIV 101NDemocracy Inaction: Satire“It’s déjà vu all over again,” aka the 2024 US Presidential Election! So how do we cope? Not a rhetorical question! Searing wit and unrelenting mockery employed in perceptive socio-political critique can arouse deep understanding, cheap laughs, or both¬—maybe neither. Satirical humorists in ancient fifth-century BCE Athens—such as the comedian Aristophanes and his competitive rivals for Athenian citizens’ attention, consideration, and laughter—and contemporary America—Stephen Colbert, John Oliver, and other Daily Show comedians, even the new-old retread of Jon Stewart—touch the rawest of nerves to fortify, rectify, or undermine societal norms. Through weekly readings, discussions, viewings, composition, and performance of satire from ancient Athens to, literally, present-day America students and instructor will investigate social thinking, persuasion, and humor in these two representative democracies battling systemic crises, cynicism, and demagoguery. You’ll learn, laugh, and learn to make others laugh, even when we’re all probably crying inside wondering how we got here and where the nearest exit is located. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University. THIS COURSE IS RESTRICTED TO STUDENTS THAT RESIDE IN NEWING COLLEGE.2WOnly new incoming first-year students living in the Newing Community can take this class
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FULLUNIV 101OFestivals, Fans, & Jam BandsThis course examines Woodstock, the Harlem Cultural Festival, and other music fests from a variety of perspectives, tracing the legacy of music festival culture through Grateful Dead concerts and up to modern-day jam bands and rock festivals. We will explore the music of the Dead, Allman Brothers, Santana, Phish, and others, considering such issues as each band's approach to studio recordings vs. live recordings, favorite performance venues, and how each band relates to its fans. Students will develop presentations and short papers on a jam band and contemporary music festival of their choice. For a final project, students will help stage a music festival to be held in Mountainview toward the end of the semester, with some students performing and others working on publicity, sound & lights, photography/videography, etc. Please note: priority registration will be given to Mountainview students but all other new first-years are welcome on a space-available basis. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2WOnly new incoming first-year students living in the Mountain View Community can take this class
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FULLUNIV 101PIn-Depth DisneyDisney as a cultural institution has evolved throughout the decades, from Snow White to Moana. Princesses have become objectified damsels to strong leaders; gender roles have been reversed; and movies have become racially inclusive. But those changes do not apply throughout. In this course, we will explore both the changes and the conventions of Disney movies. How do the animated movies advance into the live action remakes? How does Disney adapt fairy tales and classic literature to appeal to a mass audience of all ages? Has Disney showed progress in adapting with the current world? What issues lie within the movies? We will mainly analyze Disney movies through different theoretical lenses, including Marxism, psychoanalysis, and postcolonialism. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101QA Walk into NatureJournaling on student encounters with nature; class & individual walks; reading well-known nature writers NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101RLeaders Changing Our WorldThis course will examine public service leaders who have changed our world in the past or in current times. We will explore influential individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. They have all made an important difference through their service but are not necessarily well-known. Examples of leaders we may discuss include Jane Addams, Benjamin Chavis, Judith Heumann, Chiune Sugihara, and Alexander Vindman. The class will be interactive, and students will have several opportunities to participate in small- and large-group discussions in order to encourage them to reflect on the leaders being covered in this course. We also will have several guest facilitators, each of whom will focus on a different leader. Beyond achieving goals related to course content, the instructors also strive to have students recognize their own strengths and begin to see themselves as leaders. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2W
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FULLUNIV 101SFan StudiesThis course allows students the chance to explore what it means to be a fan, a stan, or even an anti-fan. Using a tv show, movie, book, or sport of their choice, students will explore the history of their fan object and the fan culture that has developed around it. We'll explore what it means when enjoying (or hating) becomes a community act and how social media plays such an important role in fandom. Skills developed will include media literacy, writing for different audiences, and some social media data collection. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101TThe Hidden History of AnimalsAnimals are everywhere in human history, yet rarely credited as important historical players. From Cortés’s army of pigs that invaded the New World to the dogs that pioneered space exploration, human history rests on the backs of animals. Moving animals to center stage, this class offers a broad survey of human-animal relationships across various world regions and historical time periods. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen.2W
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FULLUNIV 101UMake Binghamton Your HomeWhen students arrive at Binghamton University, they become part of two new communities, the Binghamton University community, and also the wider Binghamton and Broome County community. The goal of this course is to introduce students to this second community, its history, its strengths, and challenges as seen through the organizations that are most involved with civic life here (local government, nonprofits, grass roots groups, activist entities, and others). The course would also encourage students to think about what it means to be a member of a community, and what responsibilities, if any, they have to the communities in which they live. Students would meet local leaders and learn about opportunities volunteering and participating in civic life generally. In this way, the course would address core concepts of civic engagement. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101VTaylor Swift, 21C MusicTaylor Swift rose to fame as a country singer-songwriter in the mid-2000s, crafting autobiographical songs about her teenage experiences that won her an ardent and powerful fanbase of young people. Over the last fifteen years, Swift’s fan base has expanded alongside her own musical expansion from the country market to the mainstream pop market. This course will trace Swift’s career through her musical expansion, using Swift’s songs, albums, music videos, concert tours, and documentaries to shape an investigation of the 21st-century music industry. We will listen widely and engage thoughtfully with many popular music artists, ideas and sounds alongside Swift’s body of work. Students will engage regularly with written academic scholarship on Swift and other artists, alongside music criticism and journalism. Core to this course will be a survey of the broader socio-political context of Swift’s music including issues related to gender, race, sexuality, and the business of popular music. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to new freshmen2W
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FULLUNIV 101WThat'sSoMeta(cognitive)8HabitsStudents who've recently begun college writing sometimes face challenges when writing habits that have served them well come into conflict with the demands of their new writing environment. Research into habit change shows us that successfully adopting a new habit means building on one that's working for us already. “Writers' 8 Habits” helps first-year college writers examine their writing history and current writing needs, whether that’s writing in new forms and genres, for more challenging classes, or just about new, exciting ideas. We will analyze, understand, and practice the Eight Habits of Mind identified by writing educators in the Framework for Success in Postsecondary Writing, necessary for success in college writing: Curiosity, Openness, Engagement, Creativity, Persistence, Responsibility, Flexibility, and Metacognition. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101YLiving a Meaningful LifeI run this course like a learning community of students on a journey of self-discovery to identify personal strengths, values and passions then align these with societal issues of interest to identify career paths that maximize life fulfillment. We explore effective practices from different philosophies - Rumi, Zen meditation, Buddhist mindfulness – and from modern science on happiness, gratitude and resilience. Emily Esfahani-Smith’s Four Pillars of Meaning, will serve as a framework for the class to equip students with strategies that will help them foster personal development, deal effectively with stress and adversity, contribute to society and live a more enlightened, meaningful life. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 101ZReligious Lit in TranslationDespite long-held dogmas among some religions, dating back to the Ancient Egyptians, that scripture cannot be translated from its original language because only the original form carries the inspired and exact meaning or sound of the sacred, religious scriptures have and continue to be translated. This course is an introduction to the scriptures of two of the four so-called Abrahamic religions—Islam and the Bahá’í Faith—in English translation. Students will read selections in English translation from the Quran and the Bahá’í writings, alongside critical, scholarly studies. Topics include the nature of God, the purpose of religion, the station of the human being, stylistic elements, the past as a mirror for the present, a life of virtue, the unity of humankind, the concept of a covenant, and laws governing personal spiritual discipline. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 103AVizzes,DataStories & Sociology Some suggest the foundation to success in the modern workforce is data literacy. This course is meant for students who are interested in practicing data literacy in two ways: 1) deriving sociological meaning from numbers, and 2) utilizing simple tools like Tableau to effectively visualize social science data via maps, graphs, figures, tables, and dashboards. Throughout this course, students will be introduced to the very basic steps and processes within Tableau and similar tools. By the end of the course, students will take specified data, process it into Tableau, tell their own “data story” regarding a selected sociological topic, and, if desired, share their data stories on their own personal or professional social media pages. Students are encouraged to further practice these skills in creative ways: classroom assignments or projects, university clubs or organizations, community-engagement activities, and the workforce. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 103BCamera EcologicaThis course will introduce students to art making through the lens of sustainability. By engaging with material exploration, technical demonstrations, lectures, readings and field experiences, students will use art to learn about how they fit into the world around them. Evaluation will include the presentation of artistic works produced using non-traditional materials along with written responses and sketchbook assignments. As we develop our skills in creative problem solving we will examine the implications of making contemporary art and why materials matter. No prior experience in art is required though an interest in making is highly encouraged. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. UNIV 101/103 courses are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 103CGenocide Mass Atrocity PrevevtionThis course is a broad-based exploration of mechanisms, challenges, successes and failures to predict, mitigate, and where possible prevent atrocity genocide and mass violence. Types and histories of mass atrocity and identity-based violence will be identified, and learners introduced to initial debates around specific, global cases. The course is designed to “point outward” from university-based instruction and research, and toward the global community of atrocity prevention practice, whether in the national and international diplomatic community, civil society organizations, businesses, media, and elsewhere. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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FULLUNIV 103DThe Science of FoodBehind all great food is science. The science of how to transform ingredients and develop flavor. The science of how the building blocks of food come together to give taste and texture. In this course, we explore how basic chemistry and biology combine to give the building blocks of food as well as the underlying science of how the taste and texture of those building blocks are transformed. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. UNIV 103D IS RESTRICTED TO TRANSFER STUDENTS. REGISTRATION FOR THIS SECTION IS PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR ONLY.2W*Restricted to Transfer students
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FULLUNIV 103EHistory of Botanical GardensThis course will focus on the history of botanical gardens and provide a broad overview on how and why the practices of collecting, preserving, studying, and showcasing plants has been so prevalent in human societies since its first civilizations. Topics that will be covered include: 1) the ancient gardens of Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, and the Roman Empire, 2) the rise of the botanical garden during the Age of Discovery and Scientific Revolution and its role in providing scientific education, political prowess, and colonial commodification to individual empires, and 3) the modern day botanical garden as champions of genetic diversification and botanical conservation. NOTE: Students may not register for multiple sections of UNIV 101/103. All UNIV 101/103 sections are restricted to students in their first semester at the University.2W
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