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This course surveys the content and the backgrounds of the Old and New Testaments (the Jewish Bible and the Christian Bible). It explores the themes that are developed through this library of writings, and how they come together to tell a broad story of God's work in the world. It invites students to consider the meaning of the Bible's story for our world.
Core: BR
ABP 260 Questions of Faith and Ethics (3 SH)
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In this 1 SH practicum course, students lead dialogue groups for ABP 260. Weekly student-led dialogue groups cultivate belonging and intercultural communication in ABP 260. The practicum includes training, creating plans for weekly dialogues, and dialogue leadership. Prerequisite: ABP 260.
Core: CE
ACTG 221 Financial Accounting (3 SH)
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Continuation of ACTG 322. Topics covered are issues related to intangible assets, income tax accounting, accounting for leases, shareholder equity, dilutive securities and an introduction to some advanced accounting topics. Prerequisite: ACTG 322. (Fall 2024)
Core: WI
ACTG 432 Advanced Accounting (2 SH)
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This course is the culmination of theory, designed to synchronize concepts learned in the accounting curriculum while incorporating practical application. Taken during the senior year, this course will focus on current issues in accounting and best practices in industry through cases, simulations, research, and community engagement. (Spring 2024)
Core: CI
ACTG 451 Auditing (3 SH)
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Work experience designed to integrate practice and theory and to give accounting majors insight into current policies, procedures and problems in all types of organizations. Frequent consultation with and written reports to the faculty advisor guide the student's experience. Travel and personal expenses are the student's responsibility. Can be done during the summer. Grading is on a Pass/Fail basis. This is highly recommended for accounting majors. Prerequisite: admission to the department, junior or senior standing, and a department GPA of at least 2.7. Application at least one semester in advance.
Core: CE
ACTG 499 Independent Study (1-3 SH)
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A study of cellular architecture, communication, transport, structure, division, growth and death. Particular emphasis is placed on the study of cancer at the cellular level, and on a quantitative understanding of cellular movements. Students read and report on research articles. Prerequisite: BIOL 240. (Fall 2024)
Core: WI
BIOCH 438 Molecular Genetics (3 SH)
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This course uses examples from recent news events as a means of introducing the nature of science and scientific inquiry and the role of science in society, culture, politics, and policy. This course meets for 7 weeks. Offered occasionally
Core: NS
BIOL 112 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (3 SH)
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Basic principles of normal human nutrition with emphasis on energy and the nutrients— their properties, sources, functions and dietary requirements. Current and controversial issues in nutrition are included. This course meets for 7 weeks.
Core: NS
BIOL 155 Biological Explorations (3 SH)
Introductory course to biological science, with an emphasis on organism adaptations and life cycles (plant and animal, including human). The course also covers the philosophical and methodological foundations of biology, the scientific method, and an introduction to evolutionary biology. The course consists of lectures, interactive workshops, laboratory experiences, and discussions of current science news and issues. If students are taking BIOL 155 as preparation for BIOL 173, they must achieve a B or greater in this course. Prerequisite: an annual safety training outside of class.
Core: NS
BIOL 161 Food and Population (3 SH)
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Introductory course for biology majors or those interested in the biology major, emphasizing science as a method of learning about life. This course focuses on two biological issues of current interest to society—the impact of invasive species on ecosystems, and the challenge of infectious diseases. Lecture and laboratory experiences use these two issues as a springboard for learning fundamental concepts and methods in biology. In addition, the study of evolutionary biology is interwoven throughout the course, including issues related to the intersection of science and faith. Emphasis is placed on applying the scientific method, using instrumentation and basic laboratory skills for experimentation, writing scientific reports, and using computers for data analysis and presentation. This course is required for students continuing in the biology major. Prerequisite: an annual safety training outside of class. Corequisite: BIOL 174.
Core: NS
BIOL 174 Concepts in Biology Seminar (1 SH)
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Experiential community learning in areas related to future vocation is coordinated with classroom instruction and reflection. Assigned shadowing or interactive experiences require 25-30 hours/semester outside of class. Typical experiences may involve hospitals, biomedical organizations, clinics, health departments, or life science education. Prerequisite: satisfactory completion of at least two biology courses and instructor permission.
Core: CE
BIOL 220 Science Professions Seminar (1 SH)
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A foundation course in basic ecology and evolutionary biology with an emphasis on adaptations of animal and plants to their environment. The role of natural and sexual selection, species interactions, population dynamics, and landscape and community processes are investigated through a variety of projects, simulations, experiments, and field trips to representative ecosystems. Required for students continuing in the biology major, building on the experimental and investigative skills introduced in BIOL 173. Prerequisite: a grade of at least "C" in BIOL 173 or instructor permission and an annual safety training outside of class.
Core: WI
BIOL 240 Molecular and Cellular Biology (4 SH)
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This course teaches the bioinformatics skills used in academic and biotech laboratories for analyzing individual DNA and protein sequences. The focus is extensive hands-on experience using mainstream web-based bioinformatics tools. Laboratory based course that addresses biological questions by analyzing sequences, searching databases, using sophisticated software, and interpreting results. Prerequisites: BIOL 240. (Spring 2024)
Core: TI
BIOL 429 Biology Internship (1-3 SH)
This course serves as a practical application of biological principles and knowledge within a specific discipline of interest and as a way of gaining experience outside of EMU in an area of concentration. The internship will vary with a student’s particular interest but typically involves either working on a research project or participating in an internship at an appropriate organization. Open to junior or senior level general biology track majors only.
Core: CE
BIOL 437 Advanced Human Anatomy (4 SH)
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Survey of the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, including loss of function studies and the function of sensory receptors and hormones. Emphasis is placed on the role of general neurophysiological principles that affect human behavior. (PSYC 451) (Spring 2024)
Core: NS
BIOL 478 Advanced Neurobiology (3 SH)
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Explores the relationship between science, faith, and the major frameworks of philosophical ethics. Issues such as the evolutionary basis for morality, human nature, environmental ethics, clinical ethics, and bioethics are examined. A "worldview" reflective paper is required. Restricted to students majoring in the biology, chemistry, and biochemistry programs or by instructor permission.
Core: WI
BIOL 499 Independent Study (3 SH)
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Beginning with ways God's revelation is explained, this class follows the story of the Bible from oral tradition to written and copies texts, to collection and canonization, translation, dissemination through mission, and textual study, to modern versions of the Bible. Students also survey approaches to biblical interpretation and reflect on their own stories with the Bible in light of what they have learned about its own story.
Core: BR
BIST 223 Four Portraits of Jesus-Reading the Gospels (3 SH)
Students explore the texts of the four canonical gospels, using narrative, inductive, and comparative approaches to deepen their knowledge of and insight about four ways that early believers told the stories of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Through participation in contemporary community settings, students will reflect on ways that the gospel/good news can be visible in our own contexts. (Fall 2023)
Core: BR, CE
BIST 323 Life and Letters of Apostle Paul (3 SH)
This course surveys Paul's writings, the deutero-Pauline writings, and the account of Paul's life in Acts. It considers central themes in Paul's missiological and theological efforts, and introduces students to methods of biblical exegesis, including learning by peer reviews of each other's interpretational work. Students reflect on Paul's proclamation of the faithfulness of God in Jesus Christ and the faith response of humans to God's work. (Spring 2024)
Core: BR, WI
BIST 341 Old Testament Studies (3 SH)
This course invites students to explore a portion of the Hebrew Bible (e.g., Genesis- Exodus, Jeremiah, Job, Psalms) and provides an introduction to biblical interpretation and exegesis. Drawing on historical study, literary analysis, and dialogue with Jewish and other perspectives, students will develop their understanding of how these Old Testament texts continue to shape Christian faith and practice. (Fall 2023)
Core: BR
BIST 412 Elementary Hebrew (3 SH)
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This course provides an introduction to the principles and practices of management. Management is examined in its major functions: planning, leading, organizing and controlling. Examples from businesses and other organizations are reviewed to understand how these principles apply. Other courses in the curriculum build on the knowledge and understanding developed in this course.
Core: SB
BUAD 301 Quantitative Decision Making (3 SH)
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This course studies the management of human behavior in organizations. Behavioral topics include group dynamics, motivation, communication, ethical leadership, self-managed teams, and sustainability. Management topics include a review of managerial functions, planning and decision-making techniques, and organizational design. This course relies heavily on the case study method and effective communications skills to equip students for managerial and leadership roles. Prerequisite: BUAD 221 or PSYC 221.
Core: WI
BUAD 411 Business Law (3 SH)
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Strategic Leadership in Organizations is a capstone course, intended to draw upon content learned in previous courses, such as management, accounting and finance, and marketing. It is primarily a course in business values and strategy and is designed to teach analytical thinking while understanding concepts of business strategy and competition. Important themes include effective and ethical leadership, sustainable business strategy and the role of organizational values. Prerequisite: Senior standing and departmental admission.
Core: CE
BUAD 465 Project Management (3 SH)
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Work experience designed to integrate practice and theory, to give business administration majors insight into current policies, procedure, and problems in all types of organizations. Frequent consultation with and written reports to the faculty advisor guide the student's experience. Travel and personal expenses are the student's responsibility. Can be taken during the summer. Grading is on a Pass/Fail basis. This is highly recommended for business administration majors. Prerequisite: Admission to the department, junior or senior standing, and a department GPA of at least 2.7. The internship coordinator must approve the internship before it commences.
Core: CE
BUAD 499 Independent Study (1-3 SH)
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This course addresses basic concepts of chemistry and physics in the context of social, environmental, and political issues. This course will cover topics such as atomic structure and bonding, the physics of energy, chemical reactions in air and water, and the nature of scientific inquiry. Two lectures and one laboratory per week. Prerequisite: high school algebra or equivalent and an annual safety training outside of class.
Core: NS
CHEM 223 General Chemistry I (4 SH)
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An introduction to concepts in atmospheric, aquatic, and terrestrial chemistry, pollution, and energy production and consumption. Students and faculty work together with members of the community at large to investigate local environmental issues, and to educate the community about these issues. Laboratory work includes common field sampling and analytical techniques, and statistical analysis of chemical data. Students are expected to design, conduct, and report on experimentation to confirm measurements of environmental analytes using multiple strategies. Three lectures and one laboratory period or field-trip per week. Prerequisite: CHEM 223 and an annual safety training outside of class. (Spring 2024)
Core: CE
CHEM 305 Alternative Energy (2 SH)
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Organic chemistry is the study of the relationship between the three-dimensional structure and the reactivity of carbon compounds. The chemical and physical properties of organic compounds will be linked to an understanding of orbital theory, electronegativity, strain, and sterics. Reactions of simple organic compounds will be described in terms of electron movement (mechanisms) and kinetic vs. thermodynamic parameters. The laboratory will emphasize development of purification, isolation, and identification techniques, particularly chromatography, infrared spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic spectroscopy. Three lectures and one four-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: a grade of at least "C" in CHEM 224 and an annual safety training outside of class.
Core: NS
CHEM 316 Organic Chemistry II (4 SH)
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An overview of the various aspects of analytical chemistry such as sampling, statistical analysis of data sets, quantitative and qualitative analysis, spectroscopy and chromatography, and trouble-shooting/ instrument design and maintenance. Emphasis will be given to Atomic spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy including multi-dimensional analysis and nuclei beyond C and H, HPLC. One lecture, four hours of laboratory. Prerequisite: a grade of at least "C" in CHEM 224 and an annual safety training outside of class. (Fall 2023)
Core: TI
CHEM 405 Thermodynamics (3 SH)
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This course will address the topic of music in congregational life from the perspective of both the pastor and the musician. Students will study basic historical trends and theological concepts that contribute to the current horizons of music in church life. Additionally, students will learn the foundational musical concepts needed for success in their vocational area. Strong emphasis will be placed on the scope and use of various worship and music resources. To allow for deeper engagement at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, seminary and music department students will be paired in a culminating project for the course. (SMCL 640)
Core: CA
CHMUS 490 Church Music Internship (1-2 SH)
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Do you believe that the average North American youth has experienced hurt and a sense of abandonment by the adult culture? Drawing from Chap Clark's text, Hurt 2.0, we will explore this theory as we become familiar with current issues in North American youth culture. The basics of ministry for working with youth, prevention of sexual abuse, theories of adolescent faith development and self-care for youth workers are also taught. If you have an interest in working with young people in your profession this course is for you. Learning from guest speakers and observation of local youth work will also be a part of this course.
Core: BR
CHST 223 Spiritual Formation, Sacred Pauses (3 SH)
In the midst of a crazy paced world would you like to find some peace? Join us on a journey of Christian spiritual formation where we search for daily spaces that April Yamasaki calls "Sacred Pauses." Using texts by Yamasaki and Foster we will learn to practice twelve spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, simplicity and meditation and we will discern their impact on our inward and outward journeys of faith. A weekly small group experience, a day-long silent retreat, and periodic meetings with a spiritual director are also part of this course.
Core: BR
CHST 234 Mission in a Changing World (3 SH)
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This course is designed to introduce students to the interdisciplinary field of missiology by examining Christian mission, as well as the issues raised by its critics, from various perspectives. These perspectives include biblical foundations of mission, a historical overview of missions, critical reflections on empire and globalization, current issues in mission, practical applications, and personal considerations for intercultural missionaries.
Core: BR, CE
CHST 334 Almost Christian-Youth Ministry In Congregations (3 SH)
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What is the role of a faithful church and its leaders in today's conflicted world? Learn how God is using prophetic voices to provide congregational leadership in these days of church decline. Practice practical skills as you design a worship service, preach a sermon, learn about rituals of congregational life, interact with local church leaders and visit area churches. (Fall 2024)
Core: BR
CHST 435 Martyrs, Merchants, and Mendicants-1500 Years of the Christian Movement (3 SH)
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Would you like to experience the inner workings of a congregation, and test your gifts for ministry? A program of study and supervised field experience in a congregation, church agency or related ministry. Special emphasis is placed on personal development for ministry, developing leadership skills and experiencing the many facets of ministry in the congregation.
Core: CE
CHST 462 Mission Practicum (3 SH)
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Would you like to experience the challenge of hands-on ministry with youth? Participate in a supervised field experience in a congregation, camp or related ministry. The focus of the practicum is to gain first-hand experience working with youth, and to learn leadership skills and to grow in personal development.
Core: CE
CHST 499 Independent Study (1-3 SH)
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Organizing, managing, and communicating data is critical in organizations today. Leaders and researchers with sound knowledge of the information contained in their data are better equipped to make strategic decisions and answer the complex questions in their discipline. This course provides a requisite skillset for using spreadsheet applications (Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets) for data analysis and a deeper set of tools for broad information management. This course is relevant to students of any major where data management and statistical analysis is helpful in their field. This course is typically offered fall and spring semesters with a choice of in-person or online/asynchronous, and only online/ asynchronous during the summer term.
Core: QR, TI
CIS 251 Management Information Systems (3 SH)
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Music is one of the most fundamental and powerful forms of human creativity and expression. Through an exploration of classical music, pop music, jazz, rock, rap, world music and more, we will learn to understand the colorful tapestry of musical language across various styles, genres, and eras. In this course, we will feature live performances, watch video, listen to audio, and participate in interactive activities in order to enrich our classroom experience and gain a greater understanding and deeper love for the art of music. (Offered through EMU Lancaster as a 3 SH course, CMUS 114.)
Core: CA
CMUS 120 Music Fundamentals (3 SH)
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World Music is a broad survey course. Through reading, listening, practical experience and discussion, students will acquire a broad understanding of a very expansive field. The course, organized as a tour around the globe, focuses on the unique musical language and expression, the cultural context, and the global significance for each country visited on this ‘tour’. Offered in alternate years
Core: CA
CMUS 202 Topics in Music-Folk-Rock to Hip-Hop (2 SH)
From its earliest beginnings in the blues and Tin Pan Alley, all the way up to today's most current artists, American popular music has played a vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of the United States and the world. This course will survey the rich history of American popular music from a cultural, technological, and sociological perspective and explore its various influences. Students will learn elementary music concepts and skills through interactive engagement and will examine the characteristics of various musical styles including country, folk, rock, pop, R&B, rap and more. Through a hands-on exploration of music by artists such as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Beyonce, Tupac Shakur, Harry Styles, Chris Stapleton, and many more, this course provides a foundation for understanding the full and dynamic tapestry of music that continues to impact and shape generations.
Core: CA
CMUS 203 Topics in Music-Music of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (2 SH)
In just fifteen years, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has grown to encompass thirty-one films and eight television series, with original scores and soundtracks by over twenty composers. This course will introduce students to the world of film music through the lens of the MCU. Topics covered will include film music history, leitmotifs and character themes, motivic development, orchestration and instrumentation, symphonic world-building, and the compositional process for film music. Discussion of Marvel Comics – their history and social themes – will also be considered. No prior knowledge of music or film history is necessary. (HONRS 311)
Core: CA
CMUS 204 Topics in Music-Introduction to Music Technology (2 SH)
The Music Technology course will allow students to discover and explore introductory concepts used in music sequencing, notation, and recording. This course will provide a detailed explanation of computer music production. Students will develop skills in loop and MIDI production, sampling, digital audio generation, audio recording, editing, and mixing through class instruction and hands-on learning with Ableton Live and Audacity software. No prior experience in music is necessary. Offered in alternate years
Core: CA, TI
CMUS 250 Music History I (3 SH)
Music is the product of people, their lives, and communities throughout time. In academia, it is often separated and taught in distinct divisions such as theory and history; however, these two areas should be understood in context with each other and as part of an integrated whole. Centering on experiential learning, this course will examine the history and theory of major Western musical styles from the Middle Ages to the Classical Era, noting the variety of genres, compositional practices, and ideas that ultimately inform music making today. Counterpoint, musical form, and writing about music are emphasized. The ability to read music is required.
Core: WI
CMUS 260 Music History II (3 SH)
Music is the product of people, their lives, and communities throughout time. In academia, it is often separated and taught in distinct divisions such as theory and history; however, these two areas should be understood in context with each other and as part of an integrated whole. Centering on experiential learning, this course will examine the history and theory of major Western musical styles from the Classical Era to the present, noting the variety of genres, compositional practices, and ideas that ultimately inform music making today. Counterpoint, musical form, and writing about music are emphasized. The ability to read music is required.
Core: WI
CMUS 281 Music Theory II (3 SH)
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Internships are provided through churches and community organizations. Students gain various experiences in a wide range of music related fields according to their areas of interest.
Core: CE
CMUS 499 Independent Study (1-3 SH)
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A lab-based course designed to tour the modern world of computing, this course introduces the major areas of computer science, including data representation, computer hardware, programming languages, algorithms, operating systems, computer networks, and ethics in computing.
Core: TI
CS 145 Introduction to Programming (2 SH)
This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of programming, problem-solving, and design techniques using the object-oriented language Python.
Core: TI
CS 155 Programming in Python (2 SH)
Students will apply basic programming concepts with more extensive programs and create a final project of the student's choice in Python. Prerequisite: CS 145 or other programming experience.
Core: TI
CS 245 Programming in Java (2 SH)
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An overview of the management and maintenance of organizational computing infrastructure including hardware, operating system, network, database and application software. Topics include installation, configuration, routine maintenance tasks, client/server application management, automation, and user support. Prerequisite: CE 165 and CS 265. (Spring 2024)
Core: WI
CS 445 Analysis of Algorithms (2 SH)
A more in-depth look at algorithms including dynamic programming, network flow, and an exploration of NP completeness. Prerequisites: CS 355. (Spring 2025)
Core: CI
CS 455 Programming Languages (2 SH)
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Rapid advances in digital sensors, networks, storage, and computation, along with their availability at low cost, are leading to the creation of large data sets. This course provides an introduction to the definitions, principles, and defacto standard and industrial frameworks for handling these large datas. Among the multitude of software platforms, the course will utilize Hadoop, Spark, Pig, and ROOT, and will interact with Python and C++ programming to resolve practical problems and experiment with data-analysis algorithms. (Fall 2023)
Core: CI
CS 475 Capstone Project (2 SH)
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Work experience gives students an opportunity to gain valuable practical experience. Consulting with the faculty advisor guides them in integrating theory and practice to maximize learning. Travel and other expenses are the student's responsibility. Internship opportunities are available through EMU's Washington Community Scholars' Center and organizations in the Harrisonburg area. Grading is on a pass/fail basis. Prerequisite: junior or senior status.
Core: CE
CS 499 Independent Study/Research (1-3 SH)
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An introductory economics course to help students understand economic policy and how/ why goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed. In addition to learning the tools and methods of economic analysis, this course examines the mechanisms, controls, and limits of economic activity in society and the interplay between markets, governments, and nature. Economics is a field and discipline (like sociology or psychology) that tries to explain why people, governments and countries do what they do; consequently, it is an important part of a liberal arts education. This is an introductory economics course for non-economics majors. This course is typically taught in-person during fall semesters and online/asynchronous during the summer term.
Core: SB
ECON 211 Principles of Microeconomics (3 SH)
An introduction to the forces affecting the production, distribution and consumption of goods and services by households and businesses and their interaction with government. It also examines the strengths and limitations of the market system.
Core: SB
ECON 212 Principles of Macroeconomics (3 SH)
An introduction to economics as a way of thinking with a focus on understanding how the economy as a whole functions. Major topics include economic growth, unemployment, and inflation in a mixed market system.
Core: SB
ECON 300 Environmental and Ecological Economics (3 SH)
Students will study many of the "gifts of nature" and how these scarce resources are used, and sometimes abused, by human activity. Students will review a wide variety of topics, primarily through the lens of economic analysis, learning the methods and tools necessary to measure resource flow and value. Most ecological issues, however, are inherently interdisciplinary; therefore social, political, scientific, moral, and theological perspectives will also be part of integrated learning. Integrated throughout the course will be filters to discover how markets allocate natural resources, why and how governments intervene in markets on environmental grounds, the appropriateness and effectiveness of public policies in this area, and testing knowledge and learning against benchmarks of overall and global sustainability. Prerequisite: ECON 201 or ECON 211 or ECON 212, or consent of the instructor. (Spring 2025)
Core: CI
ECON 311 Contemporary Economic Issues (3 SH)
This course examines the economic aspects of contemporary and controversial issues with social, political, and/or environmental implications. Topics may include deficits and debt, social security, the environment and energy policy, and healthcare, among others. Students will use economic theory, tools, and empirical analysis to identify, compare, and debate policy options that address the many dimensions of these issues while they also refine their own positions and arguments. Prerequisite: ECON 201 or ECON 211 or ECON 212, or consent of the instructor. (Spring 2024)
Core: WI
ECON 331 History of Economic Thought (3 SH)
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