I. Communication (6 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on developing ideas and expressing them clearly, considering the effect of the message, fostering understanding, and building the skills needed to communicate persuasively. Students will complete the Communication Foundational Component Area by taking the following two courses:
ENG 131- Freshman English I
Open
Intensive study of and practice in writing processes--from invention/research to drafting, revising, and editing texts, both individually and collaboratively. Emphasizes effective rhetorical choices based on an awareness of audience, writing purpose, structural arrangement, and style. Focuses on the close reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts and on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating, and analyzing texts critically.
ENG 132 - Freshman English II
Open
Intensive study of and practice in strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. Emphasizes effective and ethical rhetorical inquiry of primary and secondary sources. Focuses on the critical reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts; the systematic evaluation, synthesis, and documentation of information sources; and the critical consideration of evidence and conclusions.
II. Mathematics (3 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on quantitative literacy in logic, patterns, and relationships. Students can complete the Mathematics Foundational Component Area by taking any one of the following courses:
MATH 132 - Contemporary Mathematics I
Open
is a course designed for liberal and fine arts, non-mathematics, non-science, and non-business majors. It will provide knowledge of the nature of mathematics as well as training in mathematical thinking and problem solving. Topics may include logic and mathematics reasoning, sets, problem solving, applications, networks, graphs, probability, statistics, geometry, mathematics of finance, and number theory. Prerequisite: MATH 131 or a passing score on the mathematics portion of the TSI Assessment.
MATH 133 - College Algebra
Open
Concise overview of functions and their graphs including linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their applications, and solving equations, inequalities and system of equations. Prerequisite: MATH 131 or a passing score on the mathematics portion of the TSI Assessment Examination.
MATH 135 - Mathematics and Business Economic Analysis I
Open
Topics from college algebra (linear equations, quadratic equations, functions and graphs, inequalities), mathematics of finance (simple and compound interest, annuities), linear programming, matrices, systems of linear equations, applications to management, economics, and business. Prerequisite: MATH 131 or a passing score on the mathematics portion of the TSI Assessment.
MATH 136 - Pre-calculus Mathematics
Open
Designed to prepare students for the study of MATH 241. Elementary functions that are differentiated and integrated in calculus are stressed, including polynomial, rational, algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Prerequisite: MATH 133 or by department consent.
III. Life and Physical Sciences (6 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on describing, explaining, and predicting natural phenomena using the scientific method. Students can complete the Life and Physical Sciences Area by choosing from among the following courses:
One from the following two courses:
CHEM 131 - Chemistry I
Open
Introduction to modern theories of atomic structure, periodic trends, chemical bonding, molecular geometry, chemical reactions, including oxidation-reduction and stoichiometric calculations. Co-requisite:
BIOL 143 - Survey of Life Science
Open
In-depth coverage of selected biological principles for non-majors covering the molecular through the population levels of life forms and functions. Methods of inquiry and analysis emphasized.
Plus one from the following course:
CHEM 132 - Chemistry II
Open
Study of the states of matter, solution chemistry, concepts associated with rates of reaction, homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria, acid-base chemistry, and fundamental thermodynamics. Prerequisites: CHEM 131 and MATH 133 or MATH 136.
GEOL 141 - Introduction To The Earth
Open
Introduction to the study of the earth is an introductory course in physical and historical geology. It involves the study of the principles of geology, study of the earth's composition, structure, and internal and external processes. It includes the geologic history of the earth and the evolution of life.
PHYS 101 - Principles of Physical Science
Open
Survey of the physical sciences for non-science majors including introductory physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, atmospheric and environmental sciences. Demonstrated math proficiency in basic algebra and geometry required.
PHYS 237 - College Physics I
Open
Non-calculus based introductory physics course designed for pharmacy students (lab suggested, although not necessarily concurrently), life sciences and chemistry students, and (non-calculus oriented) engineering students: Newton’s laws of mechanics, fluids, waves, and thermodynamics. Demonstrated mastery of basic algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus will be assessed during the first week to determine if the student will be required to pursue mandatory concurrent remediation sessions. A sample of test related problems can be found at http://physics.tsu.edu. It is recommended, but not required, that students take the accompanying lab (although not necessarily concurrently): PHYS 213.
PHYS 238 - College Physics II
Open
Non-calculus based introductory physics course studying the laws of electricity and magnetism, electrical circuits, optics, and modern physics. It is strongly advised that student take PHYS 237 before this course and take the corresponding lab: PHYS 214 (although not necessarily concurrently).
PHYS 251 - University Physics I
Open
Calculus based, introduction to Newtonian physics impacting mechanics, fluids, waves, thermodynamics. Strong competency in calculus required as measured by department’s online guide. Math assessment during first week will determine if student must participate in mandatory remediation sessions. Chair’s approval required. The corresponding laboratory, PHYS 217 is strongly recommended.
IX. Language, Philosophy and Culture (3 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on how ideas, values, beliefs, and other aspects of culture express and affect human experience. Students can complete the Language, Philosophy and Culture Component Area by taking any one of the following courses:
ENG 230 - World Literature I
Open
A survey of world literature from the ancient world through the sixteenth century. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors and traditions. Prerequisites: ENG 131 and ENG 132.
ENG 231 - World Literature II
Open
A survey of world literature from the seventeenth century to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors and traditions. Prerequisites: English 131 and English 132.
ENG 235 - American Literature
Open
A survey of American literature from the period of exploration and settlement to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from among a diverse group of authors for what they reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character. Prerequisites: ENG 131 and 132.
ENG 244 - African-American Literature
Open
A survey of African American literature with emphasis on major authors and movements. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected for what they reflect and reveal about the African American experience. Prerequisites: ENG 131 and 132.
IV. Creative Arts (3 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on the appreciation and analysis of creative artifacts and works of the human imagination. Students can complete the Creative Arts Component Area by taking any one of the following courses:
MUSI 136 - Music Appreciation
Open
Understanding traditional Western Classical music through study of the cultural periods, major composers and their works. A brief overview of musical styles from other world cultures will also be included. Illustrations of music examples will be presented through recordings, in-class performances and outside concert events.
MUSI 239 - Fine Arts In Daily Living
Open
Study of visual art, music, drama, and dance with emphasis on the interrelationship and common elements of these art forms and the contributions of selected artists.
THEA 130 - Introduction to Theatre
Open
Overview of the theatre -- its aesthetics, theory, history, and relationships to other elements of society. May be used to satisfy aesthetics requirement for the various undergraduate degrees offered through the University.
ART 135 - Topics in Contemporary Art and Culture
Open
Introduction to all visual art with special topics in contemporary art and their relationships to cultural issues. Basic elements of sculpture, painting, architecture, performance art, environmental art, computer art, and ceramics are discussed and examined. Required for art majors.
ART 137 - Introduction to African Art
Open
Fundamentals of African art as related to the philosophies which developed the cultures of the Nile River, the Sahara, the Coastal Forest, and the Savannah. Royal court art, functional art, architecture, decorative adornment, and art as a symbol of rites of passage are examined.
V. American History (6 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on the consideration of past events and ideas relative to the United States. Students can complete the American History Component Area by taking the following two courses:
VI. Government and Political Science (6 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on consideration of the Constitution of the United States and the constitutions of the states, with special emphasis on that of Texas. Students can complete the Government and Political Science Component Area by taking the following two courses:
POLS 235 - American Government
Open
Origin and development of the U.S. Constitution, structure and powers of the national government including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, federalism, political participation, the national election process, public policy, civil liberties, and civil rights.
POLS 236 - Texas Government
Open
Origin and development of the Texas Constitution, structure and powers of state and local government, federalism and intergovernmental relations, political participation, the election process, public policy, and the political culture of Texas.
VII. Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 semester credit hours)
Courses in this category focus on the application of empirical and scientific methods that contribute to the understanding of what makes us human. Students can complete the Social and Behavioral Sciences Component Area by taking any one of the following courses:
ECON 231 - Principles Of Economics I
Open
An analysis of the economy as a whole including measurement and determination of aggregate demand and aggregate supply, national income, inflation, and unemployment. Other topics include international trade, economic growth, business cycles, fiscal policy and monetary policy. Prerequisites: Six credits of college level math.
ECON 232 - Principles Of Economics II
Open
Analysis of the behavior of individual economic agents, including consumer behavior and demand, producer behavior and supply, pricing output decisions by firms under various market structures, factor markets, market failures, and international trade. Prerequisites: Six hours of college level math.
SOC 221 - Sociology of Human Sexuality
Open
Examination of the physiological, sociological, and psychological variables that influence human sexuality both within and outside the confines of the institution of marriage.
SOC 238 - Introduction To Anthropology
Open
General introduction to anthropology and related disciplines, including a general introduction to the major topical areas within each of the disciplines related to anthropology.
GEOG 132 - World Regional Geography
Open
Surveys world regions in terms of the physical, historical, economic, cultural, and political systems that produce characteristics and patterns unique to each region, as well as the connections and commonalities between regions. The course provides students with the foundations and framework for developing a geographic understanding of the world.
PSY 131 - General Psychology
Open
This course is a survey of the essential areas, major theories, and approaches to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. It is the foundation for the understanding of basic psychological principles underlying human behavior. This course is a prerequisite for all other psychology courses.
VII. Component Area Option (6 semester credit hours)
Students can complete the Component Area Option by taking one course from Speech Communications, and one course from either Computer Science or an Additional Core Course:
Speech Communications:
SC 136 - Public Address
Open
Principles of effective speaking and their application to the preparation, delivery, and evaluation of the basic forms of public messages; stresses public issues, their relevancy and effect.
Or an Additional Core Course:
CS 116 - Introduction to Computers and Their Applications I
Open
Study of computers as a tool for information processing, content creation and communication. Topics include: basics of computer systems; productivity tools (word processing, spread- sheets, and presentation generation); multimedia; and information retrieval and sharing. Certain sections may cover topics related to specific fields of study.
EDCI 210 - Instructional Technology I
Open
Provides practice using computers for instruction, evaluation, and management. Analyzes the tenets of professional conduct, ethics, roles, and responsibilities for teaching with computer technology.
