Elective Course Descriptions

Elective courses give students the flexibility to explore interests beyond their core curriculum, develop complementary skills, and broaden their academic perspective. Below is a curated list of electives offered across several disciplines. Each entry includes a brief overview, learning outcomes, credits, and any prerequisites.

Humanities & Social Sciences

HIST 210 Modern World History

Credits: 3

An overview of major political, economic, and cultural developments from 1500 to the present. Emphasis is placed on global interactions, revolutions, and the rise of nationstates.

Learning outcomes:

• Analyze primary and secondary sources to construct historical arguments.
• Explain how technological change shaped societies.
• Connect past events to contemporary global issues.

Prerequisite: None.

PSYC 220 Introduction to Positive Psychology

Credits: 3

This course examines the scientific foundations of wellbeing, resilience, and human strengths. Students explore interventions that enhance life satisfaction and mental health.

Learning outcomes:

• Identify key theories and research findings in positive psychology.
• Design simple evidencebased interventions for personal or community use.
• Critically evaluate the limits and ethical considerations of wellbeing programs.

Prerequisite: PSYC 101 or permission of instructor.

LANG 150 Introduction to Spanish Language and Culture

Credits: 4

Develop basic conversational skills while exploring cultural topics such as food, music, and festivals from Spanishspeaking countries.

Learning outcomes:

• Speak and understand simple everyday dialogues.
• Read short passages and write basic paragraphs.
• Appreciate cultural diversity within the Hispanic world.

Prerequisite: None.

Science & Technology

CS 250 Web Development Fundamentals

Credits: 3

Handson introduction to HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Students build responsive web pages and learn best practices for accessibility and performance.

Learning outcomes:

• Create static web pages using semantic HTML.
• Style layouts and components with modern CSS techniques.
• Implement interactivity with vanilla JavaScript.

Prerequisite: CS 101 or equivalent.

BIOL 300 Environmental Microbiology

Credits: 4

Explores the roles of microbes in ecosystems, biogeochemical cycles, and bioremediation. Laboratory work includes culturing techniques and molecular identification.

Learning outcomes:

• Describe microbial diversity in soil, water, and air.
• Apply PCR and sequencing methods to identify environmental isolates.
• Design a simple bioremediation experiment.

Prerequisite: BIOL 200.

ENGR 215 Introduction to Robotics

Credits: 3

An interdisciplinary survey of robot kinematics, sensors, actuators, and programming. Students assemble a basic robot platform and program simple tasks.

Learning outcomes:

• Explain fundamental concepts of robot motion and control.
• Integrate sensors and actuators using a microcontroller.
• Write and debug control algorithms in Python or C++.

Prerequisite: ENGR 101 or CS 101.

Business & Creative Arts

BUS 210 Principles of Entrepreneurship

Credits: 3

This course guides students through idea generation, market analysis, business model creation, and pitching to investors.

Learning outcomes:

• Identify viable business opportunities.
• Develop a concise business plan and financial forecast.
• Deliver an effective elevator pitch.

Prerequisite: BUS 101 or permission.

ART 115 Digital Photography

Credits: 2

Explores composition, lighting, and postprocessing using digital cameras and editing software. Students produce a portfolio of 10 curated images.

Learning outcomes:

• Apply compositional rules to create compelling photographs.
• Control exposure, depth of field, and motion.
• Edit images using layers, color correction, and retouching tools.

Prerequisite: None.

MKTG 225 Social Media Marketing

Credits: 3

Analysis of platforms, content strategy, analytics, and paid advertising. Students design a multichannel campaign for a real or simulated brand.

Learning outcomes:

• Craft platformspecific content that aligns with brand voice.
• Interpret engagement metrics to refine strategy.
• Allocate a budget across organic and paid initiatives.

Prerequisite: MKTG 101.

Physical Education & Wellness

PE 101 Foundations of Fitness

Credits: 1

Introduces basic principles of cardiovascular health, strength training, flexibility, and lifestyle habits. Includes weekly lab sessions and a personal fitness plan.

Learning outcomes:

• Assess personal fitness levels using standard tests.
• Create and follow a balanced workout routine.
• Explain the role of nutrition and recovery in performance.

Prerequisite: None.

YOGA 150 Mindful Yoga Practices

Credits: 2

Combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote mental clarity and physical flexibility. Suitable for beginners.

Learning outcomes:

• Demonstrate fundamental yoga asanas safely.
• Apply breathwork to manage stress.
• Integrate short mindfulness exercises into daily routines.

Prerequisite: None.

All electives are designed to complement major requirements, encourage interdisciplinary thinking, and support personal growth. Students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors to ensure that selected electives align with graduation timelines and career goals.