Sustainability and Environmental Studies Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
SENS 100
Intro-Sustainability & Environ
Prerequisite: Completion or waiver of MAT 012
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
The concept of sustainability is explored as it relates to human-dominated and natural ecosystems at spatial scales from local to global. The major environmental problems facing the United States and the world are evaluated in terms of interactions among ecological, social, economic, and spiritual factors. Emphasis is placed on understanding the methods by which sustainability is evaluated and actions that can be taken to increase the resilience of a community or society. Local ecosystems will be used as a context for learning. Two lectures or laboratory/field exercises each week. Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
The concept of sustainability is explored as it relates to human-dominated and natural ecosystems at spatial scales from local to global. The major environmental problems facing the United States and the world are evaluated in terms of interactions among ecological, social, economic, and spiritual factors. Emphasis is placed on understanding the methods by which sustainability is evaluated and actions that can be taken to increase the resilience of a community or society. Local ecosystems will be used as a context for learning. Two lectures or laboratory/field exercises each week. Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 126
Alternative Energy Systems
Prerequisites: None
Summer Course Only
This course is designed to familiarize students with the basic principles of modern alternative energy systems as well as the impact that such technology has on today's society. While the primary focus will be on wind and solar energy, students will have the opportunity to read, research, and discuss an array of alternative energy systems. In addition students will learn the basic steps involved in conducting an energy audit for both residential and commercial buildings to determine energy requirements.
Summer Course Only
This course is designed to familiarize students with the basic principles of modern alternative energy systems as well as the impact that such technology has on today's society. While the primary focus will be on wind and solar energy, students will have the opportunity to read, research, and discuss an array of alternative energy systems. In addition students will learn the basic steps involved in conducting an energy audit for both residential and commercial buildings to determine energy requirements.
1 Course Credit
SENS 186
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
SENS 200
Intro Ecological Restoration
Prerequisites: GSTR 210 and Permission of Instructor
Summer Course Only
Course Description: Ecological restoration is 'the process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed' (Society for Ecological Restoration). Successful ecological restoration requires the direct involvement of the human community that exists as part of the ecosystem and uses the services of the ecosystem. This course will introduce students to the basic principles of successful restoration as they apply these principles during participation in three restoration projects: wetland restoration (Georgetown, Kentucky), revegetation of mountaintop removal mining sites (eastern Kentucky), and restoration of Chesapeake Bay oyster reefs (Maryland). In all cases, the socio-economic context of restoration is closely considered with a view towards learning the skills and knowledge for achieving healthy ecosystems, landscapes and communities.
Summer Course Only
Course Description: Ecological restoration is 'the process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed' (Society for Ecological Restoration). Successful ecological restoration requires the direct involvement of the human community that exists as part of the ecosystem and uses the services of the ecosystem. This course will introduce students to the basic principles of successful restoration as they apply these principles during participation in three restoration projects: wetland restoration (Georgetown, Kentucky), revegetation of mountaintop removal mining sites (eastern Kentucky), and restoration of Chesapeake Bay oyster reefs (Maryland). In all cases, the socio-economic context of restoration is closely considered with a view towards learning the skills and knowledge for achieving healthy ecosystems, landscapes and communities.
1 Course Credit
SENS 215
Sustainable Appal Comm (APS)
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically every fall term
An introduction to the concept of sustainability as applied to communities in the Appalachian region and beyond. Ecological, social, and economic characteristics of Appalachia are reviewed as a context for case studies of communities within the region. A variety of approaches to sustainable development are explored. Students learn techniques for evaluating community sustainability, and participate in a service-learning or community-based research project that assists a local community to become more sustainable. African Americans', Appalachians', Women's Studies Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every fall term
An introduction to the concept of sustainability as applied to communities in the Appalachian region and beyond. Ecological, social, and economic characteristics of Appalachia are reviewed as a context for case studies of communities within the region. A variety of approaches to sustainable development are explored. Students learn techniques for evaluating community sustainability, and participate in a service-learning or community-based research project that assists a local community to become more sustainable. African Americans', Appalachians', Women's Studies Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 225
Envr Justice(AFR/WST/PSJ/APS)
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2013)
This course is an introduction to the study of Environmental Justice and issues associated with access to, and equitable sharing of, the products of a healthy environment, including clean water and air, healthy food, non-toxic communities, and environmental security. The history of the environmental justice movement beginning with its foundations in the Civil Rights and Environmental movements will be studied, followed by a survey and analysis of current issues of environmental justice, particularly in relation to minority and poor communities in the United States and worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the role of women and African Americans as participants in the environmental justice movement, and the analysis of environmental justice issues in Appalachia. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2013)
This course is an introduction to the study of Environmental Justice and issues associated with access to, and equitable sharing of, the products of a healthy environment, including clean water and air, healthy food, non-toxic communities, and environmental security. The history of the environmental justice movement beginning with its foundations in the Civil Rights and Environmental movements will be studied, followed by a survey and analysis of current issues of environmental justice, particularly in relation to minority and poor communities in the United States and worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the role of women and African Americans as participants in the environmental justice movement, and the analysis of environmental justice issues in Appalachia. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 226
Coral Reef Ecosystems
Summer Course Only
Based on the Honduran Bay Island of Utila, this course will provide a firsthand study of fragile eco-systems. Students will study island and coral reef ecosystems including the organisms that call those places home and their interactions and interdependencies. Current threats to the survival of coral reefs also will be examined and discussed. Students will obtain diving certification (students who already possess a diving certification will take an advanced certification course) and work on skills necessary for conducting surveys. Then students will explore several areas of coral reef ' photographing, cataloging, and studying the behavior of the resident species. The data collected will be submitted to REEF (Reef Environmental Education Foundation) and become a part of their international data base. On the surface, students will learn rudimentary bird identification skills, will survey the birdlife on and around the island of Utila, as well as sites on the mainland. The data will be sent to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology via their eBird.org website. Students will develop an understanding of how different birds and fish have adapted to their environments and will examine the impact of human development on those environments.
Based on the Honduran Bay Island of Utila, this course will provide a firsthand study of fragile eco-systems. Students will study island and coral reef ecosystems including the organisms that call those places home and their interactions and interdependencies. Current threats to the survival of coral reefs also will be examined and discussed. Students will obtain diving certification (students who already possess a diving certification will take an advanced certification course) and work on skills necessary for conducting surveys. Then students will explore several areas of coral reef ' photographing, cataloging, and studying the behavior of the resident species. The data collected will be submitted to REEF (Reef Environmental Education Foundation) and become a part of their international data base. On the surface, students will learn rudimentary bird identification skills, will survey the birdlife on and around the island of Utila, as well as sites on the mainland. The data will be sent to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology via their eBird.org website. Students will develop an understanding of how different birds and fish have adapted to their environments and will examine the impact of human development on those environments.
1 to 1.5 Course Credits
SENS 286
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
SENS 310
Ecology
Prerequisite: A laboratory-science course
Offered: As faculty and student interest dictate
An introduction to the basic ecological principles of terrestrial and aquatic systems. Emphasis is placed on experiential learning through field and laboratory studies. Principles of energy flow, material cycles, physiological ecology, population ecology, ecological succession, community ecology, and biological diversity are addressed. Hands-on exercises and experiments are integrated with lectures, discussion groups, student research projects, and computer exercises to demonstrate the process of scientific inquiry into ecological issues. Two class periods and one laboratory period each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: As faculty and student interest dictate
An introduction to the basic ecological principles of terrestrial and aquatic systems. Emphasis is placed on experiential learning through field and laboratory studies. Principles of energy flow, material cycles, physiological ecology, population ecology, ecological succession, community ecology, and biological diversity are addressed. Hands-on exercises and experiments are integrated with lectures, discussion groups, student research projects, and computer exercises to demonstrate the process of scientific inquiry into ecological issues. Two class periods and one laboratory period each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 320
Intro-Geographical Info System
Prerequisite: Completion or waiver of MAT 115 or, 125; OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate years (offered Fall 2012)
An introduction to the basic principles of Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and the related technology of Global Positioning Systems (GPS), through demonstration and practice with GIS software. Examples from a variety of disciplines will be presented to illustrate how GIS are used to manage spatial data. Students will develop beginning competency in applying GIS software to example problems. Practical Reasoning with Quantitative Emphasis (PRQ). NOTE: Noncredit for students who have completed this course as SENS 386. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (offered Fall 2012)
An introduction to the basic principles of Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and the related technology of Global Positioning Systems (GPS), through demonstration and practice with GIS software. Examples from a variety of disciplines will be presented to illustrate how GIS are used to manage spatial data. Students will develop beginning competency in applying GIS software to example problems. Practical Reasoning with Quantitative Emphasis (PRQ). NOTE: Noncredit for students who have completed this course as SENS 386. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 340
Intro to Ecological Design
Prerequisite: SENS 100 or GSTR 332 or permission of the instructor
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
An exploration of the principles and practice of ecological design'the purposeful integration of human actions with the structures and functions of the natural world. Emphasis is placed on the application of ecological principles to the design of sustainable technologies, buildings, communities, and landscapes. Topics include solar energy, biomimicry, ecological machines, sustainable agriculture, ecological architecture and building, aquaculture, ecovillages, bioremediation, eco-industrial systems, and sustainable communities. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
An exploration of the principles and practice of ecological design'the purposeful integration of human actions with the structures and functions of the natural world. Emphasis is placed on the application of ecological principles to the design of sustainable technologies, buildings, communities, and landscapes. Topics include solar energy, biomimicry, ecological machines, sustainable agriculture, ecological architecture and building, aquaculture, ecovillages, bioremediation, eco-industrial systems, and sustainable communities. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 345
Ecological Architecture (TAD)
Prerequisite: One of the following courses'SENS 340, ART 246, TEC 111 or TAD (formerly TEC) 130
Offered: Typically every third term (offered Fall 2012)
A survey of the developing field of ecological, or 'green,' architecture. Topics include innovative design methodology, alternative building materials, energy conservation and renewable energy sources, indigenous architecture, and ecologically engineered waste management systems. Material will be presented in the context of a dialogue between conventional and ecological architecture. Laboratory exercises are complemented by experiential learning through student involvement in campus and community building projects. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every third term (offered Fall 2012)
A survey of the developing field of ecological, or 'green,' architecture. Topics include innovative design methodology, alternative building materials, energy conservation and renewable energy sources, indigenous architecture, and ecologically engineered waste management systems. Material will be presented in the context of a dialogue between conventional and ecological architecture. Laboratory exercises are complemented by experiential learning through student involvement in campus and community building projects. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 386
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
SENS 390A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 394
Experiential Learning Proj
Prerequisites: SENS 100 and approval of the SENS Director
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An experiential learning activity that normally occurs beyond the classroom setting, may be on or off campus, and will involve students in activities central to SENS learning objectives under the direction of a SENS faculty member. Successful completion of a SENS 395/495 (Internship), 150 hours in an approved labor position, or a student-faculty undergraduate research project may satisfy this requirement.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An experiential learning activity that normally occurs beyond the classroom setting, may be on or off campus, and will involve students in activities central to SENS learning objectives under the direction of a SENS faculty member. Successful completion of a SENS 395/495 (Internship), 150 hours in an approved labor position, or a student-faculty undergraduate research project may satisfy this requirement.
Non-Credit Course
SENS 395
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
SENS 397A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 398
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
SENS 460
Sustainability Capstone
Prerequisites: Declared SENS minor; SENS 100 and completion or concurrent enrollment in all other SENS minor requirements
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
Advanced analysis of a current sustainability and environmental issue integrating the diverse knowledge, experiences, and points of view that students have developed in the SENS minor. This course integrates elements of the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, and emphasizes specific problem solving as well as abstract thinking. Students are expected to process and synthesize complex concepts and ideas by drawing upon the fundamentals learned in SENS 100, the breadth gained from their selection of electives, and their specific skills and perspectives developed through the experiential component.
1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
Advanced analysis of a current sustainability and environmental issue integrating the diverse knowledge, experiences, and points of view that students have developed in the SENS minor. This course integrates elements of the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, and emphasizes specific problem solving as well as abstract thinking. Students are expected to process and synthesize complex concepts and ideas by drawing upon the fundamentals learned in SENS 100, the breadth gained from their selection of electives, and their specific skills and perspectives developed through the experiential component.
1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
SENS 486
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
SENS 490A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 494
Experiential Learning Proj
Prerequisites: SENS 100 and approval of the SENS Director
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An experiential learning activity that normally occurs beyond the classroom setting, may be on or off campus, and will involve students in activities central to SENS learning objectives under the direction of a SENS faculty member. Successful completion of a SENS 395/495 (Internship), 150 hours in an approved labor position, or a student-faculty undergraduate research project may satisfy this requirement.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
An experiential learning activity that normally occurs beyond the classroom setting, may be on or off campus, and will involve students in activities central to SENS learning objectives under the direction of a SENS faculty member. Successful completion of a SENS 395/495 (Internship), 150 hours in an approved labor position, or a student-faculty undergraduate research project may satisfy this requirement.
Non-Credit Course
SENS 495
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
SENS 497A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
SENS 498
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
Notice and Disclaimer
This online publication is the official text of the Berea College Catalog & Student Handbook. Berea College reserves the right to amend, revise, or modify content within this publication at any time.
