The Bachelor of Arts
     The degree of Bachelor of Arts, with a major in history, requires successful completion of 128 semester hours, including (1) the Program of General Studies which must include six hours of one foreign language; (2) the history program listed below; and (3) a program of electives OR a minor as worked out with the student’s advisor.
     Television Courses: The Department of History, in general, will not grant credit hours for the major or minor by educational television programming. Exceptions may be made with departmental consent.
Major in History—30 hours
HIST 101, 102, 201, 203, 204, 420;  twelve hours of upper level history electives, three hours of which must be in European or non-Western history.
Major in History with an Area of Emphasis in Philosophy —30 hours
HIST 101, 102, 420; six hours of history electives; PHIL 101, 102; nine hours of philosophy electives.
Minor in History—21 hours
HIST 101, 102; fifteen hours of history electives
History Courses (HIST)
     Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Education degree must take at least three hours from History 101-102. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education must take six hours from History 101-102.
101-102  History of Civilization. (3,3)
A survey of civilizations from their origins to modern times.  HIST 101 concludes around 1600. (101 in Fall,102 in Spring)  
Note: HIST 101, 102 are the prerequisites for all other courses in history.
201  History of Europe. (3)              
A history of modern European civilization from its medieval origins to 1914. (F)
203-204  History of the United States. (3,3)
A survey of the growth of the American people from the founding of the English colonies in North America to the present. HIST 203 concludes in 1877. (203 in Fall; 204 in Spring)  
Note: HIST 203-204 are prerequisites for all advanced courses in United States history.
225  Special Topics in History. (1-3)
A specialized study of various topics and problems in the field of history.  Each offering of this course will be planned around specific topics designed by the individual instructor.
303  Medieval Europe and Byzantium. (3)
Prerequisite: HIST 101.
Major political, social, religious, and cultural developments of Medieval Europe from the time of the Emperor Constantine until the capture of Constantinople by the Ottoman Turks in 1453.
305  American Colonial History. (3)
Discovery and settlement in the British North American colonies, colonial governments, social life, the Inter-colonial Wars, and the Revolutionary War.
307  West Virginia History, Geography, and Government. (3)
A study of the geography, history, and government of West Virginia from the days of early settlement to the present.  Special attention is given to current problems.  Also listed as POSC 307. (F,S)
309  Ancient History. (3)
Examination of the major political, social, intellectual, and cultural developments of the western ancient world, focusing on the Hebrews, Greeks, and Romans.
310  The United States Since 1933. (3)
An examination of historical events and cultural processes in the United States, beginning with the New Deal. Emphasis is placed on the evolution of popular culture and ideas, the rise and fall of a "consensus society" in the fifties and sixties, the American global agenda after 1945, and economic and technological growth and management.
311  Development of the Federal Union. (3)
A survey of United States history from 1789 to 1840.
312  The Civil War. (3)
A survey of the forces in American society which produced the Civil War, and an account of the Civil War period.
314  History of England. (3)
A survey of British history from 1485 to the present, concentrating on the influence of Great Britain on the political and cultural development of the western world.
316  History of the Russias. (3)
This course covers Russian history and culture from Ivan the 3rd through post-Soviet Russia.  Topics will include:  the development of the Russian state, important movements in Russian culture, the causes and consequences of the revolutionary movement, and post-revolutionary Russia.
318  Contemporary World History. (3)
A survey of world history since 1914. The emphasis is on the world since 1945. (S)
320  The Scientific Revolution. (3)
Prerequisites: HIST 101 or PHIL 102 or consent of the instructor.
This course examines the evolution of modern science from the late Middle Ages to the present, particularly in light of contemporary developments.  The course will focus on the changing status of science in Western culture, and the influence of scientific paradigms on intellectual and social development. Also listed as PHIL 260.
321  European Social History, 1400 - 1900. (3)
Prerequisites: HIST 101 or PHIL 102.
Beginning with the Renaissance, this course examines changes in social definitions and structures in Europe brought about by intellectual and political revolution, major changes in economic systems, and growing contact with the non-western world.
326  Era of the American Revolution. (3)
An analysis of the American Revolution and the creation of the Federal Union, from 1763 to 1789.
328  America’s Era of Reform. (3)
The history of the United States from 1876 to 1932. This course will cover the development of a new social and political order in response to industrialization, urbanization, and the integration of national and international economic systems. Emphasis is placed on changing demographics, alternative political ideologies such as progressivism and socialism, the rise of professionalism and consumerism, America as a world power, and challenges to the prevailing view of modernism and progress.
329  American Foreign Relations. (3)
Prerequisites: HIST 101, 102, 203, 204; or permission of the instructor.
A survey of the basic themes of American foreign policy.  Emphasis is placed on the cultural perspectives and behavioral dynamics in foreign policy, and how these characteristics helped to shape contact and conflict with other nations or cultures.  A secondary emphasis is placed on the influence of international events on domestic conditions in the United States. Also listed as POSC 329.
335  The Vietnam Conflict, 1859-Present. (3)
Prerequisites: HIST 101, 102, 203, 204; or permission of the instructor.
An examination of culture, intervention, and conflict in Southeast Asia, including the French colonial occupation, the First and Second Indochina Wars, and events since 1975.  Includes the context of Southeast Asian cultures, and contact and conflict with the West in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Also listed as POSC 335.
350 Renaissance and Reformation. (3)
Focusing on history and culture in early modern Europe, this course examines the legacy of early social and intellectual revolution in the political and economic systems of the West.
360 The American West. (3)
The frontier experience in U. S. history, with particular emphasis on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The course will explore the images of the American West in literature, film, and commentary, and compare the frontier with those of Canada and Mexico. The role of the West in the evolution of nationalist ideologies and cultural attitudes will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on Native American and Hispanic borderland cultures.
390 Women’s History. (3)
This course examines several aspects of the female experience in world history:  the construction of gender, the impact of religious, philosophical, political, and social ideas on women’s roles, and the lives and contributions of women in various cultures.
414 American Cultures. (3)
An advanced survey of the cultural matrices of the United States through its history, as defined by gender, race, ethnicity, religion, creed, socio-economic class, condition, and other factors. Among the issues covered will be identity, assimilation and autonomy, pluralism, the effects of cultural diversity on the American global perspective, institutional elasticity and tolerance, and the creation of national ideologies.
416  The Enlightenment and Revolution, 1765 - 1919. (3)
This course covers the European revolutions – intellectual, social, political, economic, and military – arising from the ferment of change during the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution.  Crucial issues relating to the creation of modern Western civilization are discussed in a seminar-like setting.
418 Modern East Asia. (3)
The modern transformation of East Asian societies over the last several centuries, with a focus on China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The course will cover the features of traditional civilization, the impact of Western imperialism, attempts to modernize and create industrial economies, the formation of commercial and professional classes, and the rise of nationalism. Comparative characteristics of East Asian and Western societies will be discussed.
420  Historical Methods and Historiography. (3)
A practical seminar in the use of databases, libraries, and archives, the techniques of historical research, the organization and evaluation of sources, and the writing of history, and the context and meaning given by modern social and political theorists.
450  Seminar in History. (3)
This course will emphasize various topics and independent research schemas as defined by the instructor. Requires research projects and/or written papers.  
470-471  Independent Study. (3,3)
See SOSC 470-471.  (Page 132).
480-481  Honors Courses.  (3,3)
Juniors and seniors who qualify for Honors Courses are offered the opportunity to study with individual members of the faculty.  This is specialized study apart from conventional classroom work.  Interested students should contact the Division Chairperson for further information.
General History Courses
     The following courses are designed as general interest electives, open to any student who, with the appropriate background, skills and interest, and the preparation to do advanced level college work, may be allowed to waive the History 101-102 prerequisites.  Although these are general interest courses, they can be used towards the satisfaction of elective requirements for an academic major in History or Political Science, or a teaching field in Social Studies.
240  History of Religion. (3)
A survey of religious institutions and their historical development.  
339  Contemporary World Politics. (3)
An issues-oriented course focusing on selected issues in contemporary global politics, and examining their historical origins.  Each particular offering of the course will vary the specific area of study concentration.  Can be used for credit in Political Science, and is also listed as POSC 339.
340  Modern Political Ideologies. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101.
An issues-oriented course examining the major ideological systems which have shaped contemporary politics. The course will examine the history as well as current relevance of these ideologies.  Each particular offering of the course will vary in specific content.  Can be used for credit in Political Science or Philosophy, and is also listed as POSC 340, and PHIL 340.
341  The Military and Society. (3)
A problems course examining the relation between the military and society, and the impact of military institutions on the development of western civilization.  Each particular offering of the course will focus on a specific time period which will vary with each offering.  Can be used for credit in Political Science, and is also listed as POSC 341.
Philosophy
     The general objective of the philosophy program consists of providing the student with a critical framework of ideas for the integration of the basic conceptions of the natural sciences, the humanities, and the fine arts.  The analytical study of the fundamental problems of the types of knowledge, nature of reality and appearance, human nature, criteria of ethical values, and aesthetic phenomena shall constitute the contents of the program.
    Students seeking either the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science degree in another discipline may pursue a minor in philosophy.  A philosophy emphasis is available within the history major as described on page 136.
Minor in Philosophy—15 hours
PHIL 101, 102; nine hours of philosophy electives.
Philosophy Courses (PHIL)
101-102  History of Ideas I-II. (3,3)
Examines the tradition of Western thought, and emphasizes developments in metaphysics, ethics, political philosophy, religion, and aesthetics.  101 ends with early Christianity.
205  Philosophical Themes in Literature. (3)
Selected philosophical problems as they are presented in imaginative and theoretical literature.  Works of fiction and philosophical treatments of issues involved in them will be read and discussed.
210 Metaphysics and Epistemology.  (3)
Examines selected historical and contemporary problems in the theories of being and knowledge.  Topics will include: the nature of reality, the definition and possibility of knowledge, personal identity and the "mind-body" problem, freedom and determinism, the existence of God, and the problem of evil.
212 Ethics. (3)
Systematic study of theories of good and evil.  Right and wrong conduct considered in the context of major ethical systems and problems in applied ethics.
260  The Scientific Revolution. (3)
Prerequisites: HIST 101 or PHIL 102 or consent of the instructor.
     Examines the emergence and growth of modern science from the late Middle Ages to the early eighteenth century, particularly in light of contemporary cultural developments.  Attention will focus on the shifting place of science in Western culture and the emergence of new scientific ideas. Incidents in Early Modern science will also be used as test cases in the examination of theories on the nature of the scientific endeavor and scientific change. (Also listed as HIST 320.)
270  Philosophy of Science.  (3)
A critical examination of the methods and concepts of the sciences.  Topics include scientific revolutions, the unity of science, experimentation, explanation and evidence.
310  Logic.  (3)
A study of the conditions of proper, clear, and effective reasoning.  While the focus will be on identifying and evaluating arguments in everyday and academic discourse, the course will also include study of formal deductive reasoning.
320  Philosophy and Art. (3)
 Explores historical and contemporary views of creativity, the nature and value of art and beauty, and the relationship between art and truth.
330  Political Theory I. (3)  
A selective history of political theory from Plato to Machiavelli.  Also listed as POSC 405.
340  Political Theory II. (3)
A selective history of political theory from Machiavelli to the present.  Also listed as POSC 406.
350  Contemporary Philosophy. (3)
Focuses on selected major trends in 20th and 21st century philosophy.  While each offering of this course will have a distinct focus, topics will include:  existentialism, postmodernism, and feminism.
351  American Political Philosophy. (3)
The study of American political thought that examines the writings of major figures in American intellectual history.  The focus of the course will vary: the Founding, the transcendental movement, pragmatism.  Can be used for credit in Political Science and is also listed as POSC 351.
410  Themes and Thinkers. (3)
An intensive study of a continuing philosophical theme or significant individual philosopher.  This course will be conducted as a seminar and require independent research which culminates in a major project.  As each offering of this course will focus upon a distinct topic, it may be repeated for credit.
450  Seminar in Philosophy.(3)
Considers and treats the knowledge from other disciplines.  Rotating special topics, such as philosophy of history, science, religion, education or social sciences.
470-471  Independent Study. (1-6)
See SOSC 470-471.  (F,S) (Page132).
480-481  Honors Courses. (3,3)
Juniors and seniors who qualify for Honors Courses are offered the opportunity to study apart from conventional classroom work.  Interested students should contact the Division Chairperson for further information. (F,S)
Political Science
     Courses in Political Science are designed to arouse in students a greater awareness and understanding of political institutions, processes, relationships, and their underlying principles.  One goal of these courses is to generate the requisite interest and skilled civic participation that are so crucial to the maintenance of a just, responsible and democratic society.  In addition, the program is designed to prepare students for graduate study and law school.
     Students seeking the Bachelor of Arts degree may earn a major or a minor in political science.  Note the required grade average on page 131.
The Bachelor of Arts
     The degree of Bachelor of Arts, with a major in political science, requires successful completion of 128 semester hours, including (1) the Program of General Studies which must include six hours of one foreign language; (2) the political science program listed below; and (3) a program of electives OR a minor as worked out with the student’s advisor.
Major in Political Science—33 hours
POSC 101, 104, 450, 472; POSC 303 or 304; three hours from either POSC 340, 405, 406; twelve hours of political science electives; and MATH 105.
Minor in Political Science—15 hours
POSC 101; 12 hours of political science electives.
Political Science Courses (POSC)
101  Introduction to Political  Science. (3)
A survey of the methods and topics of political science, including an examination of various political systems and institutions found in the contemporary world. (F,S)
104  American Federal Government. (3)
A study of the underlying principles, organizational structure, processes and problems of the American federal system of government.  Emphasis will be placed on the national government. (F,S)
202  State and Local Government. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 or 104.
A study of the underlying principles, organizational structure, processes, and problems of state and local governments in the U.S.
204  Public Administration. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 or 104.
Introduction to modern theories of administration; the relation of administration to the political system and process; and analysis of administrative organizations and functions.
206  Contemporary Political Issues. (3)
An analytical introduction to current political issues and conflicts and how they are studied by the political scientist.  Interactive classroom techniques will be stressed.
225  Special Topics in Political Science. (1-3)
A specialized study of various topics and problems in the field of political science.  Each offering of the course will be planned around a separate and different topic, chosen and designed by the individual instructor.
230  Politics and Ecology. (3)
Examines a variety of perspectives from which environmental problems can be addressed.  These various perspectives or analytical frameworks offer explanations of the underlying causes of environmental problems and also generate political and economic responses to them.  Broadens understanding of the environmental dilemmas which face modern political systems, and provides the skills to critically evaluate different perspectives on these issues.
303  International Relations.  (3)
Recommended: POSC 101.
An analysis of the current international system and its origins.  Special emphasis is placed on current international problems and the role of the United States in world affairs.
304  Comparative Government. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A comparative analysis of the political processes of state systems outside the United States, with particular emphasis on European governments.
305  The Politics of Organized Interests. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A study of the roles, motivations, and operations of organized interests in the U.S. and the political context in which they operate, with an emphasis on the study of power in American society through the pluralist and elite paradigms.
306  Political Parties and the Election Process. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A study of the nature, functions, organizations, and activities of political parties and the process of nomination, campaigns, and elections in the American political system.
307  West Virginia History, Geography, and Government. (3) See HIST 307.
329 American Foreign Relations. (3)
Prerequisites:  HIST 101, 102, 203, 204; or permission of the instructor.
A survey of the basic themes of American foreign policy.  Emphasis is placed on the cultural perspectives and behavioral dynamics in foreign policy, and how these characteristics helped to shape contact and conflict with other nations or cultures.  A secondary emphasis is placed on the influence of international events on domestic conditions in the United States.  Also listed as HIST 329.
335 The Vietnam Conflict, 1859-Present. (3)
Prerequisites:  HIST 101, 102, 203, 204; or permission of the instructor.
An examination of culture, intervention, and conflict in Southeast Asia, including the French colonial occupation, the First and Second Indochina Wars, and events since 1975.  Includes the context of Southeast Asian cultures, and contact and conflict with the West in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.  Also listed as HIST 335.
340  Modern Political Ideologies. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101.
A problems course examining the major ideological systems which have shaped contemporary politics.  The course will examine the history as well as current relevance of these ideologies.  Each particular offering of the course will vary in specific content.  Can be used for credit in History or Philosophy, and is also listed as HIST 340 and PHIL 340.
341  The Military and Society. (3)
A problems course examining the relation between the military and society, and the impact of military institutions on the development of western civilization.  Each particular offering of the course will focus on a specific time period which will vary with each offering.  Can be used for credit in History, and is also listed as HIST 341.
351  American Political Philosophy. (3)
Recommended: POSC 104 and PHIL 102.
The study of American political thought that examines the writings of major figures in American intellectual history.  The focus of the course will vary: the Founding, the transcendental movement, pragmatism.  Can be used for credit in Philosophy and is also listed as PHIL 351.
370 Legislative Process. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A study of the structure and behavior of the U.S. Congress and state legislatures with emphasis placed on representation, institutional arrangements, the lawmaking process, and problems and trends in legislative governance.
380  The Executive Process. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A study of the structure and behavior of the U.S. Presidency and state governorships with emphasis placed on the powers and limitations, institutional arrangements, involvement in the policymaking process, and problems and trends in executive governance.
390 Judicial Politics. (3)
A study of the structure and behavior of the American judicial system with emphasis placed on the structure of the American judicial system, the roles played by various individuals and groups in the system, and the prospects for future changes in the system.
401  Constitutional Law. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A study of leading constitutional decisions of the United States Supreme Court and their effects upon the American system of government.
402 Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. (3)
The main theme of the course is the tension that exists between the rights of individuals, on the one hand, and the interests of the community, on the other.  The course examines this theme by tracing the origin and development of civil rights and liberties in the United States as contained in the Constitution and as interpreted through Supreme Court and lower Federal Court cases involving such subjects as freedom of expression, religion, race and gender.
405  Political Theory I. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A selective history of political theory from Plato to Machiavelli.  Also listed as PHIL 405.
406  Political Theory II. (3)
Recommended: POSC 101 and 104.
A selective history of political theory from Machiavelli to the present.  Also listed as PHIL 406.
450  Seminar in Political Science. (3)
Emphasizes independent research and requires a written paper.
470-471  Independent Study. (3,3)
See SOSC 470-471. (F,S)
472 Political Science Internship. (3, 6)
This summer internship will afford students academic and professional experience in a suitable private or non-profit setting.
480-481  Honors Courses.  (3,3)  
Juniors and seniors who qualify for Honors Courses are offered the opportunity to study apart from conventional classroom work.  Interested students should contact the Division Chairperson for further information.
Psychology
     The general objective of the psychology program is to provide an overview of the essential methods and findings of experimental, clinical, and theoretical psychology.  Opportunities are provided for both human and non-human experimentation through environmental manipulation.  Day-care centers, prisons, and mental health clinics also provide opportunities for observation and work in the area of human psychology.
     Students seeking the Bachelor of Arts degree may earn a major or a minor in psychology.  Note required grade average on page 131.