Liberal Studies, MALS

Dr. Patricia Smith, Director

PatriciaSmith@clayton.edu

Mission and Goals

The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree (MALS) is a flexible interdisciplinary program designed for a wide spectrum of individuals: recent college graduates, professionals in the public and private sectors, current and prospective teachers, lawyers, state workers, non-profit arts administrators, private business owners, among others.

Through a challenging, structured liberal arts curriculum, the MALS degree program offers graduate students various opportunities to:

  • strengthen their capacity to think critically and creatively;
  • grow in their understanding of cultural relevance and global awareness;
  • cultivate their analytical and communication skills to reach their full potential;
  • develop and expand a commitment to others;
  • attain a liberal studies perspective on contemporary problems and opportunities;
  • broaden their general knowledge and satisfy their intellectual curiosity;
  • gain insights into the relationships between disciplines, ideas, and historical developments; and,
  • prepare for a range of career options and further study, and
  • attain knowledge and soft-skills that are transferrable to multiple professional settings.

Application Information

Students may begin the program any semester.  Information about the application and admission process is available in the School of Graduate Studies section of this catalog and on the web: http://www.clayton.edu/graduate/.  

Advising

In order to keep students on track for completing the degree, the MALS program director will serve as advisor to all students. The student will be required to meet with the advisor before registering for courses each semester.

Academic Policies

Information regarding academic progress, residency requirements, transfer credit, application deferral, acceptance deferral, withdrawal from a course(s), and hardship withdrawal policies is in the School of Graduate Studies section of this catalog and on the Clayton State University Graduate web page.

Each student will complete thirty-six (36) semester-hours of MALS course work with a minimum grade point average of 3.0.  At least twenty-seven hours (27) of these credits must be taken at Clayton State University.  In their first two semesters, students should take the required Introduction to Graduate Studies I and II courses (6 hours). Also, in this and subsequent semesters, additional foundational seminars (6 hours) will provide students with a selected background In Art, Literature, Philosophy, Music, and other special topics in Liberal Studies. Each student will also select an academic area of focus or concentration (18 hours).  Students may select from one of the five Concentration areas in this degree program:

  1. English,
  2. History,
  3. Liberal Arts (ART, ENGL, HIST, IDST, MALS, PHIL, POLS, MATH, and MUSC),
  4. Mathematics, or
  5. Philosophy.

Students have three options (6 hours) in completing the program: Capstone Thesis Option or Capstone Non-Thesis Option, or Capstone Internship Option. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  1. Investigate and synthesize research data and ideas from interdisciplinary perspectives.
  2. Integrate research methodologies from two or more disciplines in a research proposal.
  3. Produce an interdisciplinary understanding of a complex problem or intellectual question.
  4. Demonstrate an awareness of the diverse social contexts in which the liberal arts are pursued and debated, including\\nbut not limited to, political, historical, material, cultural, racial, ethnic, national, and geographical contexts.
  5. Demonstrate advanced critical thinking skills at levels required for effective performance in professional and other social and cultural contexts.
  6. Demonstrate advanced communication skills (written, spoken, computer-assisted) at levels required for effective\\nperformance in professional and other social or cultural contexts.

Program Requirements

Foundational Seminars12
MALS 5000Intro. to Graduate Studies3
MALS 5020Intro to Graduate Studies II3
Choose two from the following: 16
Great Works in Art History
Great Books
Selected Topics/Liberal Studie
Great Works in Music History
Classics in Philosophy
Ethics, Technology, & Culture
Academic Concentrations18
Choose one option from the following:
Option 1: English
Choose six of any of the Graduate (5000/6000) Level ENGL courses listed in this catalog or others which are offered and approved by the MALS program director and Dean of Graduate Studies.
Option 2: History
Choose six of any of the Graduate (5000/6000) Level HIST courses listed in this catalog or others which are offered and approved by the MALS program director and Dean of Graduate Studies.
Option 3: Liberal Arts
Choose a combination of any six Graduate (5000/6000) Level courses as listed in this catalog with the following prefixes: ART, ENGL, HIST, IDST, MALS, MATH, MUSC, PHIL, POLS, or others which are offered and approved by the MALS program director and Dean of Graduate Studies.
Option 4: Mathematics
Choose six of any of the Graduate (5000/6000) Level MATH courses listed in this catalog or others which are offered and approved by the MALS program director and Dean of Graduate Studies.
Option 5: Philosophy
Choose six of any of the Graduate (5000/6000) Level PHIL courses listed in this catalog or others which are offered and approved by the MALS program director and Dean of Graduate Studies.
Capstone Experience6
Choose one option from the following:
Non-Thesis Option
Non-Thesis Prof Paper Research
Non-Thesis Comprehensive Exam
Thesis Option
Master's Thesis Research
Master's Thesis Preparation
Internship Option
Internship I
Internship II
Total Credit Hours36

Capstone Experience Requirements

Non-Thesis Option

Choose one or both from the following:6
MALS 6890Non-Thesis Prof Paper Research1-3
MALS 6899Non-Thesis Comprehensive Exam1-6
Total Credit Hours8-15

The Non-Thesis option is available to candidates in all tracks. Candidates who choose this option must either:

  1. present a paper at a university-sponsored event or conference; 
  2. present a paper at a state, regional, national or international academic conference;
  3. or submit and/or have an article accepted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Students selecting this option must also pass a comprehensive exam of major coursework prepared by a committee comprised of at least three MALS faculty.

Thesis Option

MALS 6995Master's Thesis Research3
MALS 6999Master's Thesis Preparation1-3
Total Credit Hours6

Students who have completed all of their course work in the areas of Foundational Seminars and their Academic Concentration may select the capstone internship option to fulfill their degree program. Students identifying this option may take a writing course to support the area of writing required within their career focus. During MALS 6901 Internship I students focus on their career goals, including identifying a potential internship. Various other projects that focus on the internship will be required. The Internship Coordinator will assist students with completing an internship learning agreement (ILA) that must be approved by the course instructor.  During MALS 6902 Internship II, students are require to complete 250 hours (16 hours a week) of an internship experience with an approved agency. Beyond the in-person hours, students will also be required to write a summary paper that critically examines their experiences. In addition, students will be evaluated by their site supervisor who will offer a critique of the student’s performance.

Internship Option

MALS 6901Internship I3
MALS 6902Internship II3
Total Credit Hours6

Students who have completed all of their course work in the areas of Foundational Seminars and their Academic Concentration may select the capstone internship option to fulfill their degree program. Students identifying this option may take a writing course to support the area of writing required within their career focus. During MALS 6901 Internship I students focus on their career goals, including identifying a potential internship. Various other projects that focus on the internship will be required. The Internship Coordinator will assist students with completing an internship learning agreement (ILA) that must be approved by the course instructor.  During MALS 6902 Internship II, students are require to complete 250 hours (16 hours a week) of an internship experience with an approved agency. Beyond the in-person hours, students will also be required to write a summary paper that critically examines their experiences. In addition, students will be evaluated by their site supervisor who will offer a critique of the student’s performance.

Second Master of Arts in Liberal Studies Requirements

Students may pursue a second Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree program in a different concentration. The following policies and procedures must be followed: 

  • Students must meet normal admission requirements for the second degree program.
  • Students must complete 36 hours of degree requirements for the second degree.
  • Course and resident credit used to satisfy the requirements of one Clayton State degree cannot be used to satisfy the requirements of another degree.
  • A maximum of 9 graduate credits from an accredited institution, including Clayton State, can be applied toward the requirements for a second Master's degree as long as:
    • those credits were taken within 6 years of admission to the second degree program
    • the courses are recommended by the student's advisor, and
    • a first Master's degree has been completed before admission to a second Master’s degree.
  • Only transfer credits of a B or above will be considered, and no Pass/Fail credits will be accepted. Transfer credit must be contained on an official transcript from an accredited degree granting institution. See Policy on Transfer Credit at the Master’s Level in the Academic Policies section of the catalog.
  • Students must complete a minimum of 24 credits in courses other than the capstone courses in the approved program of study. See Residency Requirement in the Graduation Requirements section of the catalog.
  • Specialization in the second master's degree must be different from that of the first master's degree. No courses within that specialization can duplicate courses in the first master's degree.
  • Any specific requirements (Non-Thesis, Thesis, or Internship Options courses) must be completed as part of the second program.

Please Note: Students will have to request a course substitution to ensure all coursework for the second master’s degree is 36 hours of distinctly different coursework from the first master’s degree. 

Art (ART)

ART 5000. Great Works in Art History (3) 

A survey of the high points of art history which examines aesthetic, historical, cultural, psychological, and other issues relating to art history, from various critical perspectives. The course will examine great works of art, ranging from the highlights of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to the classical era, on to the Renaissance, and beyond to more modern masterpieces.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

English (ENGL)

ENGL 5000. Great Books (3) 

A course exploring the concept of "Great Books," including history and definition of the concepts both of "book" and of "greatness." Many texts (fiction and nonfiction, as poetic) will be read closely in probing these definitions. The texts will range globally, from the earliest examples of writing (including pre-literate, oral traditions) through the present. Texts will be read in English translation necessary. Both canonic writers (e.g., Homer, Mary Shelley) and writers outside conventional definitions of the canon will be considered.

ENGL 5015. Writing Fiction (3) 

A practical study of the techniques and craft of writing the short story to grasp literary writing from the writer's point of view.

ENGL 5020. Methods of Teaching English I (3) 

Methods of Teaching English I: Teaching Literary Genres. This course prepares teacher candidates to become effective teachers of literature at the secondary level. Students will explore the methods and literary texts vital to a secondary school curriculum in Language Arts. Students will also develop teaching materials appropriate for use in the high school classroom.

ENGL 5025. Writing Creative Nonfiction (3) 

A practical study of the techniques and craft of writing the creative nonfiction essay while questioning the ambiguous nature of experience.

ENGL 5030. Methods of Teaching English II (3) 

Methods of Teaching English II: Principles of Writing Instruction. This course prepares teacher candidates to become effective teachers of writing at the secondary level. Students will explore the theory and methods of teaching writing vital to a secondary school curriculum in language arts. With emphasis on writing process and studies of language, candidates will develop teaching materials appropriate for use in the high school classroom.

ENGL 5035. Writing Poetry (3) 

A practical study of the techniques and craft of writing poetry to grasp literary writing from the writer's point of view.

ENGL 5105. Am. Colonial & Federal Lit. (3) 

Major works of American literature from 1588 to 1820, including captivity narratives, poetry, and other writings that illustrate the early development of America as a nation.

ENGL 5110. American Romanticism (3) 

Major works of American literature from 1820-1860, including Emerson, Fuller, and Douglass, as well as writers outside the traditional canon.

ENGL 5114. Lit of the Adolescent Experien (3) 

This course emphasizes thematic connections between contemporary adolescent literature and traditional literature from various literary perspectives. Course topics for study will include application of literary theory representation of adolescence in diverse cultural contexts, and connections to middle and secondary English classrooms. This course is recommended for English majors in the teaching certification program.

ENGL 5120. 19th Century Amer Lit&Culture (3) 

A graduate-level survey of early modern English literature and literary culture, ca. 1500-1700. Typical areas of emphasis will include significant literary movements within the era, major authors, and/or attention to a specific genre. Course content will include some attention to historical context, research methods, and applied critical theory.

ENGL 5125. American Realism & Naturalism (3) 

Major works in American literature from 1860-1914, including canonical writers such as Chesnutt, Chopin, Twain, Crane, Norris, and Howells, as well as writers outside the traditional canon.

ENGL 5130. Studies in Southern Lit. (3) 

An expansive course focusing on the major movements, issues, or themes in the study of nineteenth and twentieth century Southern American literature. Topics may include nineteenth century slave narratives, the Southern Renaissance, Southern fiction since 1945, Civil Rights literature, poetry, and/or major authors.

ENGL 5140. Studies Mod Amer Lit&Culture (3) 

A course focusing on issues or authors in the American Modern period, beginning around 1905 and concluding around 1945. Topics may include the Harlem Renaissance and the Southern Renaissance as well as major authors.

ENGL 5150. Studies in Shakespeare (3) 

A graduate-level survey of Shakespeare's dramatic works before and after 1600, with primary emphasis on the major comedies and tragedies and some attention to the histories, problem plays, and romances. Course content will include some attention to research methods and critical theory in the context of Shakespeare studies.

ENGL 5210. Studies in Renaissance Lit. (3) 

A graduate-level survey of early modern English literature and literary culture, ca. 1500-1700. Typical areas of emphasis will include significant literary movements within the era, major authors, and/or attention to a specific genre. Course content will include some attention to historical context, research methods, and applied critical theory.

ENGL 5220. Medieval Literature (3) 

This course explores the major works and cultural influences of the medieval time period between 600 AD and 1500 AD. Readings will include works from Old and Middle English, ranging from Old English poetry, Chaucer, the Gawain-poet, Langland, to Malory.

ENGL 5221. Studies in 17th Century Lit. (3) 

This course is a graduate-level examination of the major literary movements in English literature during this time period. Readings will include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama from the early Stuart period through the Restoration.

ENGL 5222. Eighteenth-Century British Lit (3) 

Influential authors and cultural issues in Britain from 1689 to 1780. Topics may include the scientific Enlightenment represented in literature, religious and social conflicts, gender and sexuality, nationalism and imperialism, and authors ranging from Alexander Pope to Charlotte Smith and Samuel Johnson.

ENGL 5241. Romantic British Literature (3) 

Influential authors and cultural issues in Britain from 1780 to 1837. Topics may include the French Revolution represented in literature, the technological transformation of industry and commerce, nationalism and imperialism, Romantic Orientalism, and authors ranging from William Blake to Percy Shelley and Letitia Landon.

ENGL 5250. 19th Century British Lit (3) 

A graduate-level survey of nineteenth century British literature and literary culture, ca. 1780-1900. Typical areas of emphasis will include significant literary movements within the era, major authors, and/or attention to a specific genre. Course content will include some attention to historical context, research methods, and applied critical theory.

ENGL 5260. 20th/21st Century British Lit (3) 

An in-depth study of major movements, issues, or themes in British literature from 1900-1965. Topics may include but are not limited to modernism, war literature, literature between the wars, and minor literary movements such as Angry Young Men.

ENGL 5262. Victorian Literature (3) 

A rigorous study of literary works of major English writers from 1830-1900, with attention to the social, political, economic, and cultural contexts.

ENGL 5300. Literature by American Women (3) 

A study of traditions in texts by women authors, including British, American, or world texts. The course may cover a wide range of texts or focus on a single theme, genre, period, or literary movement.

ENGL 5350. Studies in Gender & Sexuality (3) 

A variable topics course that utilizes fictional and/or non-fiction texts. This course may focus on, but is not limited to, one or more themes, issues, or literary movements in American, British, or world cultures related to the studies of gender and/or sexuality.

ENGL 5400. African American Lit & Culture (3) 

A course focusing on the major movements, issues, or themes in the study of African American literature and culture from the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. Topics may include but are not limited to modernism, postmodernism, African American womanism, Africana womanism, and other literary movements such as The Harlem Renaissance, The Black Arts Movement, The New Black Aesthetic, and/or major authors.

ENGL 5410. The African American Novel (3) 

A course focusing on the major movements, issues, or themes in the study of the African American Novel from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. Topics may include but are not limited to modernism, postmodernism, slave narrative, neo-slave narrative, the blues novel, and other literary movements such as The Harlem Renaissance, The Black Arts Movement, The New Black Aesthetic, and/or major authors.

ENGL 5450. Race & Ethnicity in Literature (3) 

An expansive course focusing on the major movements, issues, or themes in the study of race and ethnicity in literature and culture. Topics may include African American literature, post-war Jewish fiction, Native American literature, whiteness studies, Chicano/a Latino literature, Asian American literature, literature and racism, double consciousness, migration narratives, and comparative studies of racial and ethnic experience.

ENGL 5600. Composition Theory (3) 

This course is designed as an introduction to composition theory. It is designed for graduate students who wish to prepare for teaching in secondary and college educational settings and for those who wish to know more about composing theories and applications. Students will be introduced to bibliographical resources and research problems in composition; the interdisciplinary nature of college English teaching; the major texts and professional journals in rhetoric and composition studies; influential authors, teachers, leaders in the field; the history of writing instruction; the relationships between composition studies and literature/rhetoric/literary theory; writing across the curriculum; basic writing; computers and composition; pedagogical matters; and social, political, and cultural issues that shape the field.

ENGL 5620. Postcolonial Theory & Lit (3) 

A study of postcolonial literary theory and literature. Texts written in English from a variety of formerly colonized regions will be studied; including, but not limited to, Africa, the Caribbean, South and Southeast Asia, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. The focus will be on such topics as imperialism, race, gender, ethnicity, nation, language, and representation.

ENGL 5700. Response to Writing (3) 

An introduction to one-on-one writing instruction (both online and face-to-face), classroom based writing consultancy, and theories that guide these practices. Students will write many kinds of documents, including essays about tutoring and consulting, and they will apply what they have learned in peer review situations. Additional readings will cover the history, theory, and practice of peer tutoring and its role in composition studies scholarship.

ENGL 5710. Modern and Contemporary Poetry (3) 

This course examines post-1900 poetry and focuses on the poets who represent major developments in traditional and non-traditional poetics along with a consideration of the styles, trends, and influences that inform contemporary poetry in any tradition in American, British, or World texts.

ENGL 5720. Contemporary American Lit (3) 

This course examines the major movements, issues and themes in the study of modern American literature. Topics may include Postmodernism; individual identity; race, class, and gender; dualism and pluralism; magic realism, and/or major authors. Genres may include fiction, drama, memoir, and creative non-fiction.

ENGL 5730. Modern Drama (3) 

A detailed study of selected English and American plays from 1900-1965, with attention to literary backgrounds and technical experimentation.

ENGL 5800. Special Topics (3) 

A graduate-level seminar on special topics important to professional, postgraduate liberal studies. Typical areas of emphasis will include significant literary movements within a particular era of American, British or post- colonial cultures, major authors, and/or attention to a specific genre. Course content will include some attention to historical context, research methods, and applied critical theory.

ENGL 5801. Special Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar on a special topic in English studies. The course can be offered as a seminar course or as an independent study.

ENGL 5802. Special Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar on a special topic in English studies. The course can be offered as a seminar course or as an independent study.

ENGL 5803. Special Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar on a special topic in English studies. The course can be offered as a seminar course or as an independent study.

ENGL 6300. Internship Teaching Col. Eng. (3) 

Practicum in teaching college writing and/or literature. English department faculty will work with interns as they develop and teach lessons in a college classroom. Participants may enroll for up to two semesters but must teach composition and literature if the course is repeated.

ENGL 6400. Directed Research in English (1-3) 

Individuals will develop their own research project and complete the research and writing by working with a graduate faculty member. Students will be guided in research methods and practical applications for academic writing and publishing.

History (HIST)

HIST 5050. Historical Meth.&America Hist. (3) 

The practicum will constitute an independent (individual or small group) project in historical methodology, research and analysis. The student will prepare and submit a significant historical paper and or project. Requires the approval of the history experiential learning coordinator and the department head.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

HIST 5100. African-American History (3) 

An examination of the formation of African-American cultural identity from the early national period to the present, with emphasis on major formative events: slavery, the early development of cultural institutions, the reconstruction of life after slavery, northern migration during the world wars, the civil rights and black power movements of the 1950s and 1960s, and urbanization and class structure in the 1980s and 1990s.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

HIST 5120. Estab. of US, 1607-1800 (3) 

Cultural, social, economic, and political development of Anglo-America through the War for Independence, the formation of state and national constitutions and governments, the Federalist years, and the "Revolution of 1800."

HIST 5125. Age of Jefferson and Jackson (3) 

The history of the U.S. from the Early Republic through 1845. Major themes include territorial expansion, the market revolution, the rise of social reform movements, constitutional developments, the first and second party systems, and the growth of sectional tensions.

HIST 5130. The Civil Wa Era (3) 

The origins and course of the American Civil War. Emphasis on the political, economic, social, and cultural background to the war, its military aspects, its impact on American society.

HIST 5135. US in the Gilded Age (3) 

This course explores the emergence of the United States as a modern, industrial nation with an increasingly important role in world affairs. It will cover the political, social, economic, and technological changes associated with this process

HIST 5140. U.S. History, 1914-1945 (3) 

Close examination of major themes in U.S. history from the start of World War I to the end of World War II. The course covers and analyzes politics, economy, culture, race, gender, and other pertinent factors during the era of major changes in American life.

HIST 5200. History of the American South (3) 

An in-depth look at the special contributions of he South to the evolution of the United States, and an analysis of the major themes of Southern History in the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the role of ideas and values in the making of Southern history.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

HIST 5400. Twentieth Century US History (3) 

Special topics in 20th century American history.

HIST 5500. Twentieth Century World Hist. (3) 

An intensive investigation of the political, social and cultural developments of the twentieth century world. Topics to be discussed include the birth of the twentieth century, the emergence of global industrialization and imperialism, the worldwide depression, the first and second World Wars, the end of the European world order, the Cold War, postcolonial Africa and Asia, the demise of European communism, and the arrival of globalization.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

HIST 5520. Themes in World History (3) 

Special topics in World History.

HIST 5530. Themes in 20th Century World (3) 

A course on a particular aspect of world history in the twentieth century. The topic will be chosen by the instructor.

HIST 5601. Adv. Methods Teaching History (3) 

This course explores methods and strategies for teaching history at the secondary level in U.S., European, and World History courses. The course begins with an historical evaluation of the purposes of history/social studies education and then shifts to consider the relationship between history education and the historical field itself. A central objective of the course is to highlight contemporary, research-based pedagogies that will position teacher candidates to be successful in the secondary classroom.

Restrictions: Teaching History

HIST 5800. Modern American Pop Culture (3) 

An exploration of several institutional aspects of the vast, pervasive, complex, and fascinating phenomenon of American popular culture in the 20th century, in particular the rise of mass entertainment as a form of communication and community formation. Course readings will introduce students to the cultural history of comics, feature films, music, literature, radio, television and sports as commodities and as expressions of identity in a diverse nation.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

HIST 5850. Directed Readings in History (3) 

A directed readings course on a special topic in history agreed upon by the student, instructor, and the MALS director.

HIST 5900. Environmental History (3) 

Explores the complex and ever-changing interrelationship over time between human society and the natural environment, the differing perceptions of nature held by people and how those ideas and human activities regarding nature combined in ways that reshaped the American landscape.

HIST 6950. Selected Topics in History (3) 

A graduate course on a special topic in history. The course can be offered as a regular term seminar course or as independent study.

HIST 6951. Special Topics in History (3) 

A graduate course on a special topic in history.

HIST 6952. Selected Topics in History (3) 

A graduate course on a special topic in history.

HIST 6953. Selected Topics in History (3) 

A graduate seminar on a special topic in history.

HIST 6954. Selected Topics in History (3) 

A graduate seminar on a special topic in history.

Interdisciplinary Studies (IDST)

IDST 5201. The Science in Science Fiction (3) 

An examination of the scientific principles underlying representative works of science fiction. Science fiction will also be examined as a literary genre. This multidisciplinary course will be taught by faculty in science, English, and media studies.

Liberal Studies (MALS)

MALS 5000. Intro. to Graduate Studies (3) 

Emphasis on library research, using libraries from all over the Atlanta area, internet research, and archival research. This course takes students from a variety of undergraduate disciplines and trains them to conduct research in the selected area of the graduate program.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

MALS 5010. Ethics, Technology, & Culture (3) 

This course is a study of ethics, technology and culture. It explores the intersection of these concepts in contemporary issues and social concerns as they pertain to different domains, such as work, family, health, leisure and community. An historical and modern perspective will be applied.

MALS 5020. Intro to Graduate Studies II (3) 

Students will research a topic, problem, or issue within their Concentration area. Focus will be on ways to develop understanding of the quality and professionalism of applied research and writing; critical and creative thinking; problem-solving skills; and knowledge of paper design. Students will academically communicate their research through written work and oral presentations.

MALS 5800. Selected Topics/Liberal Studie (3) 

Selected topics in liberal studies.

MALS 5801. Philosophy of Law (3) 

Selected topics in liberal studies.

MALS 6890. Non-Thesis Prof Paper Research (1-3) 

As part of the Capstone Non-Thesis Option, this course includes the preparation of either a professional conference paper presentation, a scholarly book review, or an extended and enhanced research paper which will be submitted for publication to a refereed journal, rather than a thesis, completed under the direction of a graduate faculty advisor. Variable credit from 1 to 3 hours, with a maximum of 3 hours that may be applied to the Capstone Non-Thesis Option.

Prerequisites: MALS 5000

MALS 6899. Non-Thesis Comprehensive Exam (1-6) 

As part of the Capstone Non-Thesis Option, this is a faculty directed independent study course for students who are preparing for and/or completing their comprehensive examination. Variable credit from 1 to 6 hours.

Prerequisites: MALS 5000

MALS 6901. Internship I (3) 

This course will focus on professional writing and career development skills.

MALS 6902. Internship II (3) 

This course offers an experiential learning experience as students will work with an agency (for-profit, not-for-profit, or governmental entities, other) to directly observe and participate in the challenges and rewards of a contemporary work environment.

MALS 6993. Master's Supervised Research (3) 

Instruction in research and research under the mentorship of a member of the Graduate Faculty.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

MALS 6995. Master's Thesis Research (3) 

Thesis research.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

MALS 6999. Master's Thesis Preparation (1-3) 

For students who have completed all credit hour requirements and full-time enrollment for the master's degree and are writing and defending their thesis. Credits arranged.

Restrictions: Liberal Studies - Graduate

MALS 6901 Internship I - This course will focus on writing and career development. Students will be introduced to different forms of writing such as reports, grants, technical writing, and more. In addition, the course will help students learn about cover letters, resumes, networking, interviewing, and so forth. The goal is to help students articulate how their educational credentials are marketable. Finally, Internship I will help students identify a potential internship and assist them with completing an internship learning agreement (ILA) that must be approved by the course instructor.

MALS 6902 Internship II - This course will require students to complete 250 hours (16 hours a week) of an internship experience with an approved agency. Beyond the in-person hours, students will also be required to write a summary paper that critically examines their experiences. In addition, students will be evaluated by their site supervisor who will offer a critique of the student’s performance.

Mathematics (MATH)

MATH 5000. History of Mathematics (3) 

This course is an exploration of the historical development of mathematics in various civilizations, ranging from the antiquity of Babylonia and Egypt through classical Greece, the Middle and Far East, and on to modern Europe. Topics may include the development of areas such as arithmetic, geometry (practical, deductive, and axiomatic), number theory, trigonometry, syncopated and symbolic algebra, probability, statistics, and calculus.

MATH 5010. Mod. Meth. of Teaching Math (3) 

This course will explore theory and pedagogy of mathematics instruction with a focus on teaching methods across a variety of topics. Appropriate integration of technology into mathematics teaching and learning will be emphasized.

MATH 5130. Applied Algebra (3) 

This course is an investigation of the use of theoretical concepts of abstract algebra in order to solve non-theoretical problems, with an emphasis on applications. Topics are selected from symmetry groups, exact computing, linear codes, Boolean algebras, cryptography, and geometric constructions. Other topics may be covered according to time and student interest.

MATH 5220. Applied Statistics (3) 

This course extends the concepts of introductory statistics through the study and exploration of advanced inferential methods. Analysis of variance using simple experimental design, and multiple regression analysis (including model building, checking, and analysis of residuals) are introduced. Additional topics covered in the course are multifactor analysis of variance, chi- square testing, and non-parametric statistical methods. Throughout the course real data are utilized. Applications include the use of a statistical software package.

MATH 5221. Fnd.s of Business Analytics (3) 

This course covers intermediate principles of the statistics, probability, and analytics required for applications to supply chain analytics. Case studies and real-life applications in supply chain analytics will utilize industry standard computer applications. Students completing this course will understand the broad directions of statistical approaches to analytics and the practical use and interpretation of data.

Prerequisites: BUSA 5200

MATH 5231. Modern Geometry (3) 

This course is a study of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries. Topics will be explored through historical perspectives, formal geometric proofs, technology-based investigations, and modern applications.

MATH 5250. Elementary Number Theory (3) 

An introduction to the mathematical treatment of concepts related to the integers. Topics include divisibility, prime numbers, numerical functions, congruence classes and Diophantine equations. Other topics, such as rational and irrational numbers may be addressed.

MATH 5255. Factoring & Primality Testing (3) 

This course is a study of deterministic and probabilistic methods for factoring large integers and testing whether an integer is prime or composite. Topics to include Pollard's algorithms, Pseudoprime tests, the Rabin-Miller test, the Quadratic Sieve, Lucas Sequences, Pratt Certificates, and other methods according to time and student interest. Computer technology will be used heavily in this course.

MATH 5261. Introductory Probability (3) 

This is an introductory course in Mathematical Probability. It explores the topics of probability, random variables and their distributions, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and sampling distributions.

MATH 5350. Graph Theory (3) 

This course is a study of graph theory and graph theoretical problem solving techniques. Topics are selected from connectivity, Eulerian graphs, Hamiltonian graphs, algorithms, properties of trees, counting trees, planar graphs, Euler’s formula, graphs on other surfaces, dual graphs, infinite graphs, coloring vertices, Brook’s Theorem, coloring maps, coloring edges, chromatic polynomials, Eulerian digraphs and tournaments, Markov chains, Hall ‘marriage’ theorem, transversal theory, Application of Hall’s theorem, Menger’s theorem, and network flows.

MATH 5360. Combinatorics (3) 

This course is a study of combinatorial problems and solving techniques. Topics are selected from counting principles, enumeration, generating functions, recurrence relations, Polya’s theory of counting, Ramsey Theory, extremal graph theory, probabilistic methods, and the Szemeredi Regularity Lemma.

MATH 5365. Applied Combinatorics (3) 

This course is a study of some applications of combinatorics. Some of the topics that are explored in this course are: Pólya theory of counting, combinatorial design, coding theory, existence problems in graph theory, matching and covering, optimization problems for graphs and networks.

MATH 5520. Introduction to Analysis (3) 

This is a rigorous introduction to analysis of functions on Euclidean space. Topics include limits, continuity, sequences, series, differentiation, integration, and sequences and series of functions.

MATH 5525. Topology (3) 

This course is an introduction to topology via a variety of different techniques and applications involving point set, geometric, and algebraic topology. Topics include, but are not limited to: continuity, open and closed sets, compactness and connectedness, identification spaces, the fundamental group, triangulations, and surfaces. Further topics may include: simplicial homology, degree and Lefshetz number, knots, and covering spaces.

MATH 5800. Selected Topics in Mathematics (3) 

Topics of interest in mathematics not covered in courses in current graduate catalog.

MATH 5801. Selected Topics in Mathematics (3) 

Topics of interest in mathematics not covered in courses in current graduate catalog.

MATH 5803. Selected Topics in Mathematics (3) 

Topics of interest in mathematics not covered in courses in current graduate catalog.

MATH 5804. Selected Topics in Mathematics (3) 

Topics of interest in mathematics not covered in courses in current graduate catalog.

Music (MUSC)

MUSC 5000. Great Works in Music History (3) 

A study of monumental works of music from the Medieval period through the present day. Works are chosen for their historical significance related to innovation in the art of music, to interest musically and artistically, and to significance of posterity. The course will begin with a study of the elements of music, formal procedures, terminology, and music history time-line so that all student (regardless of background) will have a solid foundation of understanding upon which to build.

Philosophy (PHIL)

PHIL 5000. Classics in Philosophy (3) 

An examination of the original documents, the classic primary texts, in the history of philosophy in Western Culture. Primary source readings--including Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, and Kant--will be supplemented by a history-of-philosophy text that will place these works in historical and philosophical context.

PHIL 5200. Ancient Philosophy (3) 

In this course we will examine the philosophical literature of the eighth century B.C.E. through the third century C.E., including Pre-Socratic thought, Epicureanism, Stoicism, and Skepticism, with special emphasis on Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

PHIL 5201. Philosophy in the US (3) 

A study of the American philosophical tradition of pragmatism as a unique and original contribution to Western philosophy. The focus of the course is on the thought of four classical American philosophers: Peirce, James, Santayana, and Dewey. It will also consider the intersection of pragmatism with analytic and linguistic philosophy. Finally, the course will examine the origin of pragmatism in American intellectual history, keeping in mind social and cultural influences, and will look ahead to the influence and relevance of pragmatism for present-day culture.

PHIL 5300. Philosophy of Law (3) 

In this course we will examine philosophical issues in law and legal theory. These issues fall into three broad categories of study: (1) questions relating to the moral authority of law and its limits, questions of civil disobedience, and theories of punishment; (2) general theories of the nature of law (natural law, legal positivism, and critical theories of law as a practice of social domination); (3) questions about the role of courts and constitutions in a democratic society.

PHIL 5400. Medieval Philosophy (3) 

In this course we will examine the philosophy of the middle ages (dating from the fourth through sixteenth centuries C.E.). Special attention will be paid to the medieval incorporation of the Greco-Roman, Jewish and Islamic traditions, the thirteenth-century birth of the university and the gradual transition from medieval to modern philosophy.

PHIL 5600. Modern Philosophy (3) 

The course studies philosophical literature of the 16th through the 18th centuries, through careful examination of, and critical engagement with, such figures as Hobbes, Descartes, Pascal, Locke, Leibniz, Spinoza, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant.

PHIL 5700. Contemporary Philosophy (3) 

An examination of works of major thinkers and movements shaping 20th and 21st century philosophy. Movements studied include Existentialism, Phenomenology, Pragmatism, and Analytic Philosophy, represented by philosophers including Soren Kierkegaard, Martin Heidegger, John Dewey, and Ludwig Wittgenstein.

*Add: PHIL 5000 - Classics in Philosophy

Political Science (POLS)

POLS 5010. Public Administration (3) 

This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and practices relevant to the role of the non-elected, career administrator in a democratic system.

POLS 5030. Public Policy (3) 

This course will explore the process of public-sector policy-making by examining selected policy issues and outcomes. Special attention will be given to the role of policy analysis and politics in the process.

POLS 5050. Research Methods & App Stats (3) 

An overview of research design and research methodology as it applies to social sciences, and a review of descriptive and inferential statistics as they apply to the field of social sciences.

POLS 5190. Studies in Politics - Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar exploring selected political science topics. A variety of perspectives will be examined.

POLS 5191. Studies in Politics - Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar exploring selected political science topics. A variety of perspectives will be examined.

POLS 5192. Studies in Politics - Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar exploring selected political science topics. A variety of perspectives will be examined.

POLS 5193. Studies in Politics - Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar exploring selected political science topics. A variety of perspectives will be examined.

POLS 5194. Studies in Politics - Topics (3) 

A graduate seminar exploring selected political science topics. A variety of perspectives will be examined.

POLS 5210. Ethics in Public Admin. (3) 

This course examines basic issues of morality and ethics associated with public service roles in a democratic society. Topics covered in this course include the foundations of public service ethics, individual-centered approaches to ethics, institutional approaches to ethics, and issues in public service ethics.

POLS 5230. Public Management & Leadership (3) 

This course examines the fundamentals of management and leadership within public organizations, including skills needed to become an effective public administrator. The course also provides an evaluation of current and evolving challenges faced by public administrators and strategies to respond and adapt.

POLS 5250. Nonprofit Administration (3) 

This course is designed to provide a theoretical and practical understanding of the non-profit sector, an introduction to skills essential for effectively managing non-profit organizations (NPOs), and exposure to contemporary issues and strategic opportunities. Students will increase their understanding of how non‐profit organizations can be managed to effectively and efficiently deliver services and products to their constituents, clients, customers, and the public.

POLS 5260. Nonprofit Budgeting (3) 

This course provides a framework for planning, budgeting, and financial management in nonprofit settings by offering both theoretical and practical applications for everyday use. The course also examines the mission of nonprofits and identifies resources for fiscal growth and development.

POLS 6040. Policy Analysis (3) 

This course will teach students to analyze complex public-policy issues and develop concise reports with recommendations on how to address these issues.

POLS 6051. Program Evaluation (3) 

Designed to familiarize students with techniques that are utilized in evaluating the effectiveness and impact of public policies and programs. It offers an analysis of c program development with emphasis on procedure and design.

POLS 6060. Public Admin HR Management (3) 

This course is a study in human resource management in public and non-profit agencies. It will address current complex human resource issues, by introducing the student to best practices for impacting long-term workforce needs, recruiting and maintaining high-performance teams, and creating a culture of excellence within governmental agencies.

POLS 6210. Law for Public Administrators (3) 

Using case law and real-world examples, students in this class will examine constitutional, administrative, and civil laws that regulate the actions of public servants.

POLS 6230. Local Govt Admin & Finance (3) 

An introduction to local governmental organization and its various agencies. Particular attention will explore the management of revenue-raising and expenditure activities, including financial management, budgeting, grants and contracts, expenditure monitoring, procurement and purchasing policies, and financial auditing procedures.

POLS 6240. Urban Politics and Policy (3) 

This course will introduce students to the concepts of urban governance, including the process of designing, implementing, and managing public policy in an urban environment. Students will develop and apply the analytical and leadership skills necessary to navigate the political and economic structures characteristic of urban politics.

POLS 6250. Org. Theory and Management (3) 

This course is an introduction to major theories concerning organizational behavior and management in the public sector, including analysis of individual behavior in an organizational context. Contemporary trends in organization theory and public management are emphasized.

POLS 6260. Environmental Policy (3) 

The aim of this course is to expose students to the broad themes in environmental policy and the major concepts and debates influencing decision-making processes in this area. The course will discuss the development of key environmental policies in the U.S. from the local to national level and use case studies on a range of environmental problems to prepare students for work in the field.

POLS 6270. Environmental Management (3) 

This course examines the structure, function, and outcomes of environmental and natural resource management in the US with special attention to the role of markets and maximization of social benefit. Topics may include pollution control, water management, land use policy, endangered species, fishery management, forestry policy, and sustainable development.

POLS 6940. Internship in Public Admin (3) 

Supervised field experience in a governmental or not-for-profit agency. Students will be required to complete a project that uses scholarly research to illuminate experience gained during their internship.

POLS 6980. Project in Public Admin (3) 

Using knowledge obtained from coursework, and input from a faulty advisor, students will produce a research paper analyzing an element of public administration and/or policy.

Augustine Ayuk
Virginia Bonner
Benjamin Buckley
Brigitte Byrd
Christy Burton
Matthew Carter
Shannon Cochran
Michael Dancs
Jason Davis
David Gilbert
Randall Gooden
Barbara Goodman
Cantice Greene
Jason Guthrie
Alexander Hall
Lisa Holland-Davis
Todd Janke
E. Joe Johnson
Terrence Johnson
Sipai Klein
Bryan LaBrecque
Mary Lamb
Marko Maunula
Joshua Meddaugh
Nasser Momayezi
Eugene Ngezem
Kelli Nipper
Kathryn Pratt-Russell
Amy Sanford
Matthew Sansbury
Patricia Smith
Sheryne Southard
Kavita Surya
Steve Spence
Adam Tate
Robert Vaughan
Christopher Ward
Mark Watson
Carol White