Courses

809-101 Industrial Development in a Global Market
In this course the apprentice will study the impact that local, state, national, and world economic and political policies and conditions have on a local business. This will include such things as the impact on business decisions as well as human resources and employment laws.

809-122 Introduction to American Government
Introduces American political processes and institutions. Focuses on rights and responsibilities of citizens and the process of participatory democracy. Learners examine the complexity of the separation of powers and checks and balances. Explores the role of the media, interest groups, political parties, and public opinion in the political process. Also explores the role of state and national government in our federal system.

809-128 Marriage & Family
This course introduces the student to the sociological aspects of marriage and family life in contemporary American society. Emphasis is on the study of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns associated with courtship, love, mate selection, sexuality, and marriage. Moreover, it discusses the life span development in the family life cycle, balancing work and family, and parenting. This course is based on the premise that human attitudes, feelings, and behaviors are largely shaped and influenced by philosophy, gender, communication, and personal beliefs. Therefore, success in the institutions of marriage and family require knowledge and skills in the roles of spouse and parent and ways to apply concepts to daily life.

809-159 Abnormal Psychology
This course surveys the essential features, possible causes, and assessment and treatment of the various types of abnormal behavior from the viewpoint of the major theoretical perspectives in the field of abnormal psychology. Students will be introduced to the diagnosis system of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). In addition, the history of the psychology of abnormality will be traced. Cultural and social perspectives in understanding and responding to abnormal behavior will be explored as well as current topics and issues within abnormal psychology. Prerequisite(s): 809-198 Intro to Psychology.

809-166 Introduction to Ethics: Theory & Applications
This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social, and/or professional standards of behavior and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.

809-172 Race Ethnic & Diversity Studies
This is a course that draws from several disciplines to reaffirm the basic American values of justice and equality by teaching a basic vocabulary, a history of immigration and conquest, principles of transcultural communication, legal liability and the value of aesthetic production to increase the probability of respectful encounters among people. In addition to an analysis of majority/minority relations in a multicultural context, the topics of ageism, sexism, gender differences, sexual orientation, the disabled and the American Disability Act (ADA) are explored. Ethnic relations are studied in global and comparative perspectives.

809-174 Social Problems
Explores the causes of and possible solutions to selected social problems such as inequality, crime and deviance, and poverty. Students will examine the interrelationship of social problems and their roots in fundamental societal institutions.

809-188 Developmental Psychology
This is the study of human development throughout the lifespan. This course explores developmental theory and research with an emphasis on the interactive nature of the biological, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that affect the individual from conception to death. Application activities and critical thinking skills will enable students to gain increased knowledge and understanding of themselves and others. It is recommended that either Intro to Psychology (809-198) or Psychology of Human Relations (809-199) be completed before taking this course.

809-195 Economics
Designed to give an overview of how a market-oriented economic system operates, and it surveys the factors which influence national economic policy. Basic concepts and analyses are illustrated by reference to a variety of contemporary problems and public policy issues. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.

809-196 Introduction to Sociology
Basic study of the role of society, culture and socialization in shaping individual behavior and societal institutions. Emphasis is placed upon applying sociological principles to both students' job settings and to their interpersonal relationships.

809-197 Contemporary American Society
This course examines the network of interdependent social systems that affect learners as employees, family members, and citizens. In this interdisciplinary course learners will study public policy issues that illustrate how our traditional institutions such as family, education, government, work, and media are being changed by global, political, demographic, multicultural, and technological trends. By exploring contemporary issues, learners will expand their use of creative and critical thinking skills in evaluating information, making decisions, advocating positions, and participating in the democratic process. Emphasis is placed on the foundation and structure of American society and the impact that diversity has on its institutions.

809-198 Introduction to Psychology
This introductory course in psychology is a survey of the multiple aspects of human behavior. It involves a survey of the theoretical foundations of human functioning in such areas as learning, motivation, emotions, personality, deviance and pathology, physiological factors, and social influences. Additional topics include research methods, biological and environmental impacts, development, sensation and perception, consciousness, intelligence and stress. This course directs the student to an insightful understanding of the complexities of human relationships in personal, social, and vocational settings.

809-199 Psychology of Human Relations
Students will become acquainted with the basic theories and concepts of psychology and human behavior, enabling them to be more effective in their work and personal lives. A better understanding of human relations will help the individual adjust and grow in a complex society.

809-351 Occupational Relations
This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the human relations skills necessary to succeed in a total quality work environment. This will include workplace trends, team-building skills, customer and co-worker relations, attitude and motivation, safety and stress management, diversity, employment law, and financial and benefits planning.