The CurriculumApplied Behavioral Sciences Curriculum

The following course descriptions have been designed to incorporate the major applied topics that are most important today. This curriculum has been established through many years of refinement. It requires approximately fourteen months of intensive work by each student. The process of this program is designed so students follow the sequence of courses with a group of fellow students (called a cohort), meeting one night per week. Students learn within the group by bringing their individual talents to the group and by participating in shared learning experiences. (ABS Texts as of 4/1/04)

---

Term I

Dynamics of Group Behavior (LAS 331 -- 4 Q.H.) University Course Outline
Since this is the initial course in the ABS series, the participants will learn about significant features of the program and become acquainted with other class members. Skills in reading and writing are assessed to help assure that each person will have a successful experience with the program.

The course is designed to help students examine group behavior using real types of experiences, including how groups make decisions and resolve conflict. Students also learn how to participate constructively in groups, especially in committees, as members and leaders.

Adult Development and Learning Assessment (LAP300 -- 5 Q.H.) University Course Outline
Students develop an understanding of adult development and learning theory. They identify their own learning styles and clarify their personal and professional goals.

Effective Interpersonal Relationships (LAP340 -- 5 Q.H.)
Students learn principles and skills of relating one-on-one and in small groups. They examine how to create, build and maintain effective relationships.

Term II

Professional Communication (LAT440 -- 3 Q.H.)
This course was designed to present an in-depth examination of the communication process. This includes theoretical perspectives, interpersonal communication, presentations to groups and oral and written communication in organizations.

Multicultural Dimensions (LAS 426 -- 5 Q.H.)
Students examine cultural differences as they influcence communication among people. The course treats the effect of cultural diversity on social and organizational issues, as well as the quality of individual life.

Methods of Inquiry in the Behavioral Sciences (Including Library Session) (INT 430 -- 4 Q.H.) University Course Outline
Students will be introduced to basic concepts, methods and tools employed in the research process. Emphasis is placed on practical applications of these ideas, with the central goal being to assist students in becoming intelligent consumers of research findings and conclusions.

Term III

Managerial and Supervisory Behavior (LAS431 -- 5 Q.H.) University Course Outline
Students explore various aspects of managerial and supervisory behavior as it relates to everyday life. Emphasis is placed on preactical applications of behavioral science research findings in the areas of motivation, decision making, problem solving, and employee development.

Independent Study in the Behavioral Sciences (INT490 -- 2 Q.H.)
Students will plan and conduct a self-directed inquiry into a research question of interest. This independent study is guided by concepts presented and developed in "Methods of Inquiry in the Behavioral Sciences" (INT 430) course.

Economic Issues in Global Perspective (LAS430 -- 5 Q.H.)
Students examine economic concepts and apply them to issues that occur from local to global economies.

Term IV

Philosophy of Values and Ethics (LAH305 -- 5 Q.H.) University Course Outline
Students consider the process of making ethical decisions in an increasing complex world. They also look at the history and description of the major constructs of ethics which have guided mankind for thousands of years and review those theories in light of today's issues.

Leadership in a Changing World (INT410 -- 5 Q.H.) University Course Outline
After learning various definitions and changing concepts of leadership over time, students share their ideas on what leadership is, on the differences between management and leadership, the key ingredients of leadership and how one can learn to become a leader.

Senior Seminar: Integrating the Applied Behavioral Sciences (LAS435 -- 2 Q.H.)
Students review and reflect on key concepts learned throughout the program, integrating these concepts for future personal and professional applications.