2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Apr 23, 2024  
2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Mathematics

  
  • MATH 106 - Special Topics in MATH


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Based on topic(s) covered or permission of instructor
    Description: This course covers topics in Mathematics. Due to the nature of evolving topics, this course may not be eligible for repeat. Offered as needed.
  
  • MATH 120 - College Algebra


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: C or higher in MATH 081  or by assessment
    Description: This course is designed for the student with an elementary knowledge of algebra. Topics include properties of real numbers, problem-solving using equations and inequalities, algebraic functions, graphing, systems of equations and inequalities, polynomial functions and graphs, exponents and radicals, the binomial theorem, zeros of polynomials, inverse functions, and applications and graphs. Free on-line graphing and calculating utilities are used in lieu of a graphing calculator. This course meets a total of 4 hours per week to permit active learning activities each week driven by student interests or needs. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 140 - Precalculus


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Placement by Assessment into College Algebra
    Description: This course develops the properties, definitions and graphs of the algebraic, logarithmic and trigonometric functions and their inverses. The treatment emphasizes how to construct models of applications using the algebraic and transcendental functions.  Offered Fall and Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 150 - Applied Mathematical Reasoning


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  
    Description: The course introduces some of the major themes and ideas in mathematical reasoning and focuses on mathematical applications relevant to a non-physical science student. The content in the course will help the student to use mathematical concepts effectively in their respective disciplines. The course lays a lot of stress on geometry and trigonometry. Topics covered in the course include plane geometry, transformational geometry, trigonometry, set theory, logic, and elementary graph theory.  Offered Fall and Spring semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 210 - Discrete Mathematics I


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  or MATH 220  
    Description: This course provides the student with an understanding of multiple mathematical concepts and methods, which shape the foundation of modern information science in a form that is relevant and useful. Discrete mathematics plays a fundamental role for computer science, which is similar to that played by calculus for physics and engineering. Many concepts in computer science are best understood from a perspective that requires expertise with mathematical tools and certain reasoning skills associated with mathematical maturity. The topics covered draw on current material from several mathematical disciplines: graph theory, mathematical logic, and set theory. Offered Fall Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 220 - Calculus I


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  or MATH 140  or MATH 280  
    Description: This course introduces techniques to evaluate limits and covers continuity, special trigonometric limits, absolute value limits and differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric, and logarithmic functions. The course explores intermediate value theorem, mean value theorem, and extreme value theorem. Other topics for exploration are application and formal definition of derivative average rate of change versus instantaneous rate of change, velocity, and the introduction of the definite integral and its applications. A graphing calculator is required for this course. Offered Fall and Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 250 - Introduction to Linear Algebra


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  or MATH 220  
    Description: As science and engineering disciplines grow so does the use of mathematics; new mathematical problems are encountered, and new mathematical skills are required. In this respect, linear algebra has an essential role in various engineering and scientific disciplines. This course develops the fundamental algebraic tools involving matrices and vectors to study linear systems of equations and Gaussian elimination, linear transformations, orthogonal projection, least squares, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors and their applications. This course develops concrete computational skills along with theoretical considerations. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 260 - Calculus II


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 220  
    Description: This course focuses on the exploration of differential calculus, the derivatives of all functions. An emphasis is placed on the rules of differentiation and their proofs. The course analyzes graphs of functions using the concept of derivative and its application and includes an introduction to integral calculus, integration properties, differential equations and notation. Problem solving is learned using elementary integration techniques, elementary trigonometric integration, and hyperbolic functions. A graphing calculator is required for this course. Offered Summer and Fall Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 261 - Calculus III


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 260  
    Description: This course develops vector algebra, the calculus of more than one variable; partial derivative; volume; surface and line integrals; the polar, cylindrical and spherical coordinate systems; and the theory of vector fields. It develops the theory of vector calculus and conservative vector fields which lead to the conservation laws of nature. In addition, the course fully treats the mathematical framework of defining geometry in three dimensions. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 280 - Introductory Statistics


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  or MATH 220 
    Description: This course covers elementary topics from the probability and statistics of both discrete and continuous random variables. Topics include independence and dependence, mean, variance and expectation, and distributions of random variables. Statistics is applied to hypothesis testing. This course provides the student with a broad, general knowledge and understanding of statistics. The emphasis of this course is on the utility and practical application of statistics rather than on the mathematical derivation of statistical principles. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 298 - Project I


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: SEMR 200 , an approved learning contract, permission of the Office of Experiential Programs, designation of an appropriate academic advisor, and a minimum of 40 earned semester hours
    Description: This first project in the student’s experiential program challenges the student to identify, investigate and analyze a particular topic in the program of study or a concentration. A key objective is to apply skills, methods, and knowledge obtained in prior courses with independent thinking and research; the final product represents the successful and purposeful application of knowledge. The project is undertaken with the close mentorship of a faculty member and may involve a community partner. Projects can involve scientific-based research or laboratory experiences, needs analysis or development plans for external organizations, or market studies and business plan proposals.  Offered as needed.
  
  • MATH 300 - Experiment Design and Analysis


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  or MATH 140  
    Description: This course is an introduction to applied design of experiments and the statistical analysis of scientific data. It provides a detailed development of specific parametric and non-parametric statistical procedures and their application to various experimental designs. This course is well-suited for a student to apply sound data analysis technique to experimental data. Key course objectives are: designing experimental procedures to obtain the desired information, application of the statistical procedures consistent with the design, and to draw meaningful inferences from the results. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 310 - Discrete Mathematics II


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 210  or MATH 260  
    Description: This course ensures that the student reaches the level of mathematical maturity necessary for the study of Computer and Information Sciences. Topics covered draw on current material from the study of graphs, trees, relations, algorithms and models of computation. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 320 - Ordinary Differential Equations


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 260  
    Description: This course serves as an introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) and their applications. Topics include: Existence, uniqueness and the stability of solutions; first and second order ODEs; applications; the Laplace transform; numerical methods; systems of ODEs and solutions of linear equations with constant coefficients. Developing applied models taken from a wide variety of fields and learning to communicate your understanding by writing effective arguments are key objectives of this course. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 365 - Internship


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: SEMR 200  or permission, an approved learning contract, permission of Office of Experiential Programs, designation of an appropriate academic advisor, and a site supervisor 
    Description: An internship allows the student to put theory into practice. The student applies classroom experiences to the workplace at an off-site placement, where ideas are tested and competencies and skills are developed. Throughout the internship, the student works regularly with a faculty supervisor, the Office of Experiential Programs, and a site supervisor who guides the learning process. The student integrates the collective observations, analyses, and reflections of the experiential team into an internship portfolio that showcases the accomplishments of the experience. The unique portfolio is constructed throughout the internship and represents the evolutionary and dynamic nature of the learning process.  Offered as needed.
  
  • MATH 370 - Numerical Methods


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 210  or MATH 220  
    Description: This course covers the math methodologies that underlie the techniques of scientific computing and related numerical methods. Topics include: direct and iterative methods for linear systems, eigenvalue decompositions and factorizations, stability and accuracy of numerical algorithms, the IEEE floating-point standard, sparse and structured matrices, and linear algebra software. Other topics may include memory hierarchies and the impact of caches on algorithms, nonlinear optimization, numerical integration, FFTs, and sensitivity analysis. Problem sets will involve use of C++ programming language. The course is intensely practical with solved examples and graded exercises. Offered Fall Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 380 - Mathematical Modeling


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 220  
    Description: This course involves applications of mathematics to real-world problems drawn from industry, research, laboratories, the physical sciences, engineering and scientific literature. Techniques used include parameter estimation, curve fitting, calculus, elementary probability, optimization, computer programming, and ordinary and partial differential equations. People routinely solve problems using estimation, probability, optimization, and simulation or modeling techniques without considering themselves mathematicians. This course broadens and strengthens the exposure of the interested student to applications of mathematics frequently seen in industry, science, and government. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 381 - Special Topics


    (1 to 4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Consent of the Instructor and Academic Advisor
    Description: This course covers topics in Mathematics. Due to the nature of evolving topics, this course may not be eligible for repeat. Offered As needed.
  
  • MATH 390 - Independent Study


    (1 to 4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours
    Description: This course is designed for the student who demonstrates an interest in an area of study not offered or who wishes to pursue a discipline in greater depth than possible through existing courses. An independent study counts as an elective and may not be used for accelerated or remedial credit. A learning contract between the student and instructor defines the responsibilities of the parties and specifies the learning objectives and standards for successful completion of the project. A calendar of meeting times and deadlines shall be a part of that contract. Offered as needed.
  
  • MATH 420 - Methods in Applied Mathematics


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 320  
    Description: Several topics in advanced calculus are developed in this course including functions of a complex variable, infinite series, Fourier series, Partial Differential Equations, Probability Theory and Mathematical Statistics. Applied problems arising from many fields of science and data analysis are treated using the mathematical topics covered. Computer Aided Software is used to supplement the material in each topic.  Offered Fall Semester, annually.
  
  • MATH 498 - Project II


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 298 , an approved learning contract, permission of the Office of Experiential Programs, designation of an appropriate academic advisor 
    Description: This project must be in the student’s program of study or concentration(s). It should demonstrate application of the skills, methods, and knowledge of the discipline to solve a problem or answer a question representative of the type to be encountered in the student’s profession. As with Project I, this is undertaken with the close mentorship of a faculty member and may involve a community partner. The ideal project has a clear purpose that builds directly upon the learning that occurs within the student’s first project and internship. Offered as needed.

Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology

  
  • NANO 211 - Materials, Safety and Equipment Overview for Nanotechnology


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: CHEM 161 /CHEM 162 , MATH 120 , and PHYS 210  
    Description: Nanofabrication processing equipment and materials handling procedures with a focus on safety, environment, and health issues. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University - University Park campus. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • NANO 212 - Basic Nanotechnology Processes


    (3 semester hours)
    Corequisite: NANO 211  
    Description: Step-by-step description of equipment and processes needed in top-down, bottom-up, and hybrid nanofabrication. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University - University Park campus. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • NANO 213 - Materials in Nanotechnology


    (3 semester hours)
    Corequisite: NANO 212 
    Description: The use of materials for nanotechnology as well as the unique material properties available at the nano-scale. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University - University Park campus. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • NANO 214 - Patterning for Nanofabrication


    (3 semester hours)
    Corequisite: NANO 212 
    Description: Lithographic process from substrate preparation to exposure; process from development through inspection; advanced optical lithographic techniques. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University - University Park campus. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • NANO 215 - Materials Modification in Nanotechnology Applications


    (3 semester hours)
    Corequisite: NANO 212 
    Description: Processing steps used in modifying material properties in nanofabrication. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University - University Park campus. Offered Each semester, annually.
  
  • NANO 216 - Characterization, Testing of Nanofabricated Structures and Materials


    (3 semester hours)
    Corequisite: NANO 212 
    Description: Measurements and techniques essential for controlling device fabrication. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University - University Park campus. May substitute Project I. Offered Each semester, annually.

Nursing

  
  • NURS 320 - Nursing Practice and Senior Adults


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: Nursing practice in promoting health and managing health concerns of the older adult. The course will explore the effects of the aging process on physical systems of the human body and includes examination of loss and coping, and legal and ethical issues.
  
  • NURS 325 - Integrative Patient Assessment


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours.
    Description: This course builds on basic physical assessment knowledge of the Registered Nurse to include broadened assessment skills necessary to lead coordination of interprofessional care of the patient. The use of therapeutic communication skills when performing health assessment and the assessment of cultural and socio-economic aspects of health will be incorporated. The student is taught how to critically evaluate assessment findings and differentiate between normal and alterations indicative of actual or potential health problems. The student has lab experiences in the nursing learning and simulation laboratory where health assessment skills can be practiced.
  
  • NURS 340 - Technologies for Healthcare


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours
    Description: This course examines the creation and use of emerging health technologies influencing the provision of quality patient outcomes and health economies.  Concepts of creativity, innovation, communication, and change will be examined. Opportunities for optimizing healthcare systems and leadership will be explored.
  
  • NURS 380 - Special Topics in Nursing


    (1 to 4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: This course covers emerging topics in nursing. It is an in-depth study of a selected specialized area and the content varies by semester.
  
  • NURS 398 - Project I Evidence Based Practice (EBP)


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours
    Description: This first project in the student’s experiential program challenges the student to identify, investigate and analyze a particular topic in the program of study or a concentration. A key objective is to apply skills, methods, and knowledge obtained in prior courses with independent thinking and research; the final product represents the successful and purposeful application of knowledge. The project is undertaken with the close mentorship of a faculty member, and may involve a community partner. Projects can involve scientific-based research or laboratory experiences, needs analysis or development plans for external organizations, or market studies and business plan proposals.
  
  • NURS 430 - Nursing Practice and Population Health


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours
    Description: This course focusses on an introduction to theory and concepts of community and population health nursing. Emphasis is on the professional nurse’s role in working with the community as the client. Care will be delivered based on community health and public health standards of nursing practice. The student will then explore the role of the nurse working collaboratively with the community as part of an interdisciplinary team. An introduction to conceptual frameworks that focus on population health care is included in both the classroom and practicum portions of the course. Selected community engagement will entail nursing practice focusing on population health as the physical, social, cultural, and economic community where one works and lives. The student will link community health status and health policy with the performance of health care systems.
  
  • NURS 435 - Nursing Leadership and Health Policy


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours
    Description: This course will focus on the professional nurse’s role in applying the principles of leadership and management in clinical environments. The role of the nurse leader and his/her influence on safe nursing practice will be explored. Barriers to practice, regulatory, legislative, and political processes in reference to professional practice will also be examined. The course will also emphasize nursing leadership roles and interprofessional collaboration in the development/application of technology to increase efficiency of healthcare services and improve patient outcomes.
  
  • NURS 498 - Project II Applied Nursing Research


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: NURS 398 , An approved learning contract, permission of the Office of Experiential Programs, designation of an appropriate academic advisor.
    Description: This project must be in the student’s program of study or concentration(s). It should demonstrate application of the skills, methods, and knowledge of the discipline to solve a problem or answer a question representative of the type to be encountered in the student’s profession. As with Project I, this is undertaken with the close mentorship of a faculty member and may involve a community partner. The ideal project has a clear purpose that builds directly upon the learning that occurs within the student’s first project and internship.

Physics

  
  • PHYS 210 - General Physics I


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: High School Physics and Algebra II
    Description: This course provides an introductory treatment of classical Newtonian physics and covers kinematics in one and two dimensions, vector forces, Newton’s laws of motion, uniform circular motion, work, conservation of energy, momentum and angular momentum, rotational kinematics and dynamics, and simple harmonic motion. Emphasis is placed on the application of basic concepts through mathematical problem-solving. Applications of physics to problems in medicine are presented and medical technology is highlighted throughout the course. Applications of elementary and differential and integral calculus to physics are introduced. Laboratory experiments provide experience with various measurement technologies and reinforce the theoretical concepts developed. Three hours of lecture, three hours of laboratory per week. Offered Fall Semester, annually.
  
  • PHYS 215 - Principles of Physics for Nanobiotechnology


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 120  
    Description: This course covers selected topics from the primary fields of physics including: Newton’s mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and modern (atomic) physics with an emphasis on applications to nanobiotechnology. Algebraic equations are used throughout the course. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • PHYS 260 - General Physics II


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: PHYS 210  
    Description: This course extends the study of classical physics and covers topics in electrostatics, magneto statics, electric circuits, electromagnetic waves, optics, interference and diffraction, and the quantum theories of atomic and nuclear physics. Mathematical problem-solving skills and applied problems in medical technology are emphasized. Applications of elementary and differential and integral calculus to physics are introduced. The course includes laboratory experiments to expose the student to advanced electronic and radiation measurement technologies and enhance the theoretical development of each topic. Offered Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • PHYS 301 - Physical Thermodynamics


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: CHEM 161 -CHEM 162 MATH 220 PHYS 260 , and PHYS 320  (or taken concurrently)
    Description: This course is designed for the student who has an interest to apply knowledge gained in calculus, physics and chemistry to the study of thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium. Offered Spring Semester, even-numbered years.
  
  • PHYS 315 - Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: CHEM 220 MATH 260 PHYS 260 , and PHYS 320  (or taken concurrently) 
    Description: This course integrates knowledge gained in calculus and physics to atoms and molecules of chemistry. Quantum mechanical theory is introduced and applied to understand how electrons are arranged in atoms and molecules and ultimately studied using spectroscopy. Offered Fall Semester, even-numbered years.
  
  • PHYS 320 - Physical Chemistry Laboratory


    (1 semester hour)
    Prerequisites: CHEM 220 MATH 220 , and PHYS 260  
    Corequisite: PHYS 301  or PHYS 315  
    Description: The student will be introduced to principles and practical techniques, including spectroscopic, thermodynamic and kinetic experiments. Real-world applications will be explored through discovery labs emphasizing teamwork, problem-solving skills, and student-guided experimental design. Offered Fall Semester, odd-numbered years and Spring Semester, even-numbered years.
  
  • PHYS 330 - University Physics I


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: MATH 261  
    Description: This calculus-based physics course covers the classical physics founded upon Newton’s Laws, and the conservation of energy and momentum. Applications of these principles treat topics such as the rotational dynamics of rigid bodies, Newton’s theory of gravity, oscillations, fluids and elasticity. The course includes weekly laboratory exercises. Three hours of lecture, three hours of laboratory per week. Offered Fall Semester, annually.
  
  • PHYS 350 - University Physics II


    (4 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: PHYS 330  
    Description: This course is a continuation of University Physics I. University Physics II develops the physical principles of electricity and magnetism, DC electric circuits, electromagnetic radiation, interference phenomena, quantification, and quantum theory of the atom. The course makes extensive use of vector calculus. Three hours of lecture, three hours of laboratory per week. Offered Spring Semester, annually.

University Seminars

  
  • SEMR 050 - Academic Skills


    (0 semester hour)
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: This course improves the student’s opportunity for success in college-level work by teaching study habits in ten key areas: anxiety, attitude, concentration, information processing, motivation, selecting main ideas, self-testing, study aids, test strategies, and time management. Limited to the student on academic probation or financial aid appeal. Offered As needed.
  
  • SEMR 100 - Cornerstone


    (1 semester hour)
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: This course meets throughout the semester and offers the mentorship of a faculty member in the transition of a first-year or transfer student. The course focuses on daily life at the University: academic requirements and resources, professional etiquette, student activities, and civic engagement. Offered Fall and Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • SEMR 200 - Steppingstone


    (1 semester hour)
    Prerequisites: SEMR 100 
    Description: This course prepares the student for the subsequent components of experiential learning. It develops the depth and range of academic and professional skills in areas such as goal setting, time management, communication, interviewing, and career planning. The student is shown the value of and processes to plan and obtain mentorships, projects, and internships. This seminar also emphasizes the development of the civic engagement competency, and advances the planning and construction of the student’s ePortfolio. At the conclusion of SEMR 200, the student should have a completed proposal for Project I and know how to plan for an Internship. Offered Fall and Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • SEMR 300 - Keystone


    (1 semester hour)
    Prerequisites: SEMR 200  
    Description: This course focuses on the refinement of the student’s academic and professional identity. It emphasizes the importance of the University competencies, and the ways to measure, apply, and communicate the successful attainment of them. It further prepares the student for the Internship by reviewing the ways in which an external experience fits into the program of study. If needed, the student is guided through the process of securing an internship. The student advances through active learning in the areas of civic engagement and teamwork, and further develop presentation skills. This seminar facilitates the successful completion of many subsequent components in the experiential program. Offered Fall and Spring Semester, annually.
  
  • SEMR 315 - Accelerated Learning Cornerstone


    (3 semester hours)
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: This foundations course introduces the online student to the HU seminar experience. It is an accelerated and technical format of learning to provide skills in research, writing, oral presentation, time management, decision making, teamwork and identifying personal, professional and academic strengths for continued success.
  
  • SEMR 400 - Capstone


    (1 semester hour)
    Prerequisites: SEMR 300 , Internship, Project II
    Description: The capstone challenges the student to reflect upon and integrate academic, experiential and co-curricular experiences in preparation for the workforce or graduate school. Assignments are designed to create a sense of culmination in the fourth year, and prepare the student for the transition to life beyond the University. The student completes the ePortfolio to demonstrate the achievement of competencies and the program of study; this is of potential utility to employers or graduate schools as unique and specialized evidence of the individual student’s abilities. Offered Spring and Summer Semester, annually.
 

Page: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5