Interdisciplinary Studies

The Archway Seminar is a course designed to introduce first year students to the intellectual practices that must be cultivated and routinely exercised to make the most of a liberal education. Through a topic of intrinsic interest, students will practice and develop their capacity for critical and analytical thought, their ability to conduct and report research on a given topic, and their ability to collaborate in solving problems. In addition, students will exercise their ability to express themselves orally and in writing. The instructor/advisor will help students become independent learners who understand the intent of Nebraska Wesleyan's general education program.
No Pass/Fail.

IDS-1020 is a seminar intended for traditional undergraduate transfer students to integrate students into the Archway Curriculum, develop their Archway Curriculum e-Portfolio, develop a positive relationship to Nebraska Wesleyan University, connect with advising, network with cohort of transfer students, develop career goals and strategies, and become effective learners. No P/F.

Prerequisite: Transfer students must have 26 or more college credits earned since high school graduation.

Students interested in law represent a range of undergraduate majors and it is important to recognize the opportunities available at NWU for students to cultivate the connections, knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to be successful at the rigorous academic level of law school. This self-exploratory course will guide students as they determine if pre-law is the right direction for them. Students will identify how they can navigate the Archway Curriculum to intentionally choose courses that will support their skill development toward law school as well as inform them of steps they can take to prepare for the legal profession.

This course provides a survey of issues at the interface of science and religion. These include questions of knowledge, belief, and truth about the beginnings of the cosmos, the origins of human beings, and the roles of science and religion in society. This course can be used to satisfy the core requirement for the Sciene and Religion Thread. Credit may not be earned for more than one of the Science and Religion Seminar courses of IDS 1050FYW, IDS 1060, or IDS 1070.

This course provides a survey of issues at the interface of science and religion. These include questions of knowledge, belief, and truth about the beginnings of the cosmos, the origins of human beings, and the roles of science and religion in society. This course can be used to satisfy the core requirement for the Sciene and Religion Thread. Credit may not be earned for more than one of the Science and Religion Seminar courses of IDS 1050FYW, IDS 1060, or IDS 1070.

This course provides a survey of issues at the interface of science and religion. These include questions of knowledge, belief, and truth about the beginnings of the cosmos, the origins of human beings, and the roles of science and religion in society. This course can be used to satisfy the core requirement for the Sciene and Religion Thread. Credit may not be earned for more than one of the Science and Religion Seminar courses of IDS 1050FYW, IDS 1060, or IDS 1070.

Students in this composition course will develop their skills in academic and professional writing as they examine the ways that writing, in various forms and mediums, can impact and change the beliefs, perceptions, histories, and/or actions of a culture.

This course serves as a required step in the Identity Thread of the Integrative Core. In the course, we will explore fundamental premises about human identity within different world cultures, and study ways in which the development of modernity has challenged and remolded those views. The ultimate aim of the course is to present major questions that the study of identity poses, and explore a variety of approaches to investigating these questions. The course will prepare students for other courses they will take within the thread. Credit may not be earned for more than one of the "Identity" courses of IDS 1200, IDS 1200FYW, or IDS 1210.

This course serves as the first step in the Identity thread of the Integrative Core. In the course we will explore fundamental premises about human identity within different world cultures, and study ways in which the development of modernity has challenged and remolded those views. We will use the lens of identity to explore a number of issues that are at the forefront of modern life. The ultimate aim of the course is to present major questions that the study of identity poses, and explore a variety of approaches to investigating these questions, using writing as a primary tool for this investigation. The course will develop student writing skills, and prepare students for other courses they will take within the thread.The course will prepare students for other courses they will take within the thread. Credit may not be earned for more than one of the "Identity" courses of IDS 1200, IDS 1200FYW, or IDS 1210.

This course serves as the core requirement in the Identity Thread of the Integrative Core.  In the course, we will explore fundamental premises about human identity within different world cultures, and study ways in which the development of modernity has challenged and remolded those views.  The ultimate aim of the course is to present major questions that the study of identity poses, and explore a variety of approaches to investigating these questions.  The course will prepare students for other courses they will take within the thread. Credit may not be earned for more than one of the "Identity" courses of IDS 1200, IDS 1200FYW, or IDS 1210.

What is justice, and how as a society do we pursue its realization? Justice: An Introductory Experience will investigate answers to these questions by studying ideas and case studies concerning justice that highlight the challenges involved in its pursuit, and by participating in service learning where students experience local agencies on their efforts to realize a more just society. This course is required for the Justice Thread, where possible as the first course in the Thread.

This course introduces students to the most important worldwide human health issues, and examines possible solutions. These issues will be examined from multiple perspectives, including biological, environmental, socioeconomics and political. Specific topics will include infectious diseases, nutrition, reproductive health, and non-communicable diseases from childhood to old age. Students will work with case studies that explore global health metrics, ethics and human rights, policies, and practices in a variety of countries. IDS-1500 will complete a reflective assignment related to their evolving perspective on global human health.

A topical course designed to investigate relevant subject matter not included in any standard courses. The title and the content will be determined by current mutual interests of students and faculty. This course may be offered to meet a requirement for a major only by approval of the department chair.

The purpose of this course is to explore the infinite variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) career options and paths, as well as to practice and guide aspects of personal development that will foster success for undergraduate STEM students in college and beyond. This will be accomplished through weekly discussions, presentations, and activities, including regular guest presentations from STEM-oriented professionals in industry and academia. We will also tour a local STEM-oriented company once each semester. Students are encouraged to enroll in the course multiple times throughout their college career as their STEM interests and needs evolve. Normally offered each semester. Can be taken multiple times. P/F only.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent Study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

Supervised individual projects for students on topics selected by the student in consultation with the instructor. Special Projects may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

An on-the-job experience oriented toward the student’s major interest. The student is to secure a position in an organization that satisfies the mutual interests of the instructor, the sponsor, and the student. P/F Only.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

For grant recipients of the Nebraska Wesleyan University Student-Faculty Collaboration Research Fund for scholarship or research in collaboration with, or mentored by, faculty. Students carry out active, experiential learning apropriate to the students' disciplines and present the results of their projects in a university-wide local research symposium.
Pass/fail only.
A course fee will be assessed.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Student-Faculty Collaborative Research Committee.

This course prepares students to apply for National Prestige Scholarships such as Fulbright, Critical Language, Goldwater, Truman, Hollings, etc. Course work includes assignments such as writing and revising personal statements and research proposals and participating in mock interviews.
No Pass/Fail.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

In this course students will explore current (innovative) approaches for solving the (wicked) complex problems of a generation. By engaging in a design- or systems-thinking approach, students will develop, share, and refine strategies through active collaboration, exploration, and connection both on and beyond campus, seeking out community experts, and will culminate coursework with a final team demonstration of an innovative solution.
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing.

How does the place make the person? An in-depth look at the many components of environment that contribute to identity, with an in-depth focus on a specific country/region. This course includes a faculty-led study abroad trip, completed after the end of the semester.

What have you done, where are you going, and how are you developing your resources to get there? In this course, we will work on building the evidence of your learning and abilities, developing effective ways of presenting yourself to opportunities that arise. We'll connect with the Career Center on CV building, and learn how to build a portfolio of work to present yourself compellingly.

Students participating in approved exchange programs abroad enroll in IDS 2700E Study Abroad-Exchange Program to maintain continuing student status and advance enrollment for the following semester. As official records are received, final determination of credit is made, and course titles, credits, and grades are posted on the permanent transcript in lieu of IDS 2700E Study Abroad-Exchange Program. May be repeated.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Director of International Education.

Students participating in approved non-exchange programs abroad enroll in IDS 2700N Study Abroad-Nonexchange to maintain continuing student status and advance enrollment for the following semester. As official records are received, final determination of credit is made, and course titles, credits, and grades are posted on the permanent transcript in lieu of IDS 2700N Study Abroad-Nonexchange. May be repeated. Students pay an administrative fee.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Director of International Education.

A course designed to treat subject matter not covered in other standard courses or to provide study of subject matter introduced in other courses. The title, content, and credit hours will be determined by current mutual interests of faculty and students.

In this course students gain leadership and curriculum development knowledge in their area of study. Students receive mentorship and learning opportunities in their time with the instructor and then put that knowledge into practice as leaders of creative clubs in local elementary and middle schools on a weekly basis. Each semester culminates in a presentation at the relevant school for the community, as well as a presentation of the student's own learning and reflections. Participating students also learn about important aspects of entrepreneurship, such as filing taxes with 1099 income, seeking out other opportunities like these after the end of the internship, and learning more about nonprofit organizations and LLCs. Students can take this class more than once for up to 3 credits total. Pass/Fail only.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent Study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

Supervised work on an approved project involving subject matter not included in any of the standard courses. Projects are normally developed individually, but may be arranged for organized groups. Registration should designate the area of work.

An on-the-job experience oriented toward the student’s major interest. The student is to secure a position in an organization that satisfies the mutual interests of the instructor, the sponsor, and the student. P/F Only.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

Student instructors work closely with faculty instructors in the Archway Seminars, planning seminar sessions, facilitating class discussion, and responding to seminar assignments. In addition, student instructors will meet as a group to discuss and evaluate their experiences, and to participate in student development activities. Three hours of lecture per week (the meeting of the Archway Seminar). One hour of discussion per week or as needed.
Pass/Fail oriented.
May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours.
Prerequisite(s): Selection as a student instructor for an Archway Seminar (approved by the Associate Provost for Integrative and Experiential Learning) and junior or senior standing.

This thread culmination course asks students to synthesize learning from previous Democracy Thread courses. Students will put what they have learned in those courses into action by identifying a local, national, or global problem and creating a plan to address that problem. This course meets twice a week for eight weeks. The course will culminate with group presentations about each action plan.

Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or instructor permission.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

See Thread Coordinator.

Prerequisite(s): Instructor permission.

See Thread Coordinator.

Prerequisite(s): Instructor permission.

4 hours - fall or spring semester
3 hours - summer or winter term
This course introduces students to the major institutions, ethnic communities, and systems of Chicago. Students interact with community organizers, performers, political leaders, and business owners. Students visit neighborhoods, encounter the vast diversity of the city, and experience the connection between world events and urban living.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of Chicago Center for Urban Life and Culture Faculty Liaison.

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the program director to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent Study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the program director.

Supervised individual projects for students on topics selected by the student in consultation with the instructor. Special Projects may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

An on-the-job experience oriented toward the student’s major interest. The student is to secure a position in an organization that satisfies the mutual interests of the instructor, the sponsor, and the student. P/F Only.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

For grant recipients of the Nebraska Wesleyan University Student-Faculty Collaboration Research Fund for scholarship or research in collaboration with, or mentored by, faculty. Students carry out active, experiential learning apropriate to the students' disciplines and present the results of their projects in a university-wide local research symposium.
Pass/fail only.
A course fee will be assessed.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Student-Faculty Collaborative Research Committee.

This course will draw together previous learning and experiences in the Justice Thread by having students engage in a significant justice-related project in partnership with a community organization. Students must have completed 10 hours in the thread; be junior standing and have permission of the instructor to enroll.

Prerequisite(s): Junior standing and permission of the instructor.

Students enrolled in this course complete a 15 week, 32 hour/week internship in an organization related to various topics including politics, the law, arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences in Washington D.C. The primary goal of this course is to introduce the student to the world of practical engagement in a variety of fields in the nation's capital. A secondary goal of the course is to enrich the participants' understanding of self; sharpen their career goals; and foster networking, professional skills and civil literacy.

Prerequisite(s): Acceptance in the Capitol Hill Internship Program

Corequisite: IDS 4710 The Internship Seminar (CHIP)

Each week, interns gather (in the classroom in the CHIP building on Hill-510C St, NE) to discuss their internship and to extract its deeper meaning. The goal of the course is to expose students to generalizations about politics and related fields and how their internships are either confirming or challenging those generalizations. The readings for the course vary according to the internship placements of the students. Students are exposed to various research methodologies for understanding Washington politics and making connections to their internship. Guest speakers are used in this course.

Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into Capitol Hill Internship Program

Corequisite: IDS 4700 The Washington Experience (CHIP)

An opportunity for students, under the supervision of a faculty member, to pursue scientific literature not covered in other coursework.

In this course students gain leadership and curriculum development knowledge in their area of study. Students receive mentorship and learning opportunities in their time with the instructor and then put that knowledge into practice as leaders of creative clubs in local elementary and middle schools on a weekly basis. Each semester culminates in a presentation at the relevant school for the community, as well as a presentation of the student's own learning and reflections. Participating students also learn about important aspects of entrepreneurship, such as filing taxes with 1099 income, seeking out other opportunities like these after the end of the internship, and learning more about nonprofit organizations and LLCs. learning opportunities in their time with the instructor and then put that knowledge into practice as leaders of creative clubs in local elementary and middle schools on a weekly basis. Each semester culminates in a presentation at the relevant school for the community, as well as a presentation of the student's own learning and reflections. articipating students also learn about important aspects of entrepreneurship, such as filing taxes with 1099 income, seeking out other opportunities like these after the end of the internship, and learning more about nonprofit organizations and LLCs. Students can take this class more than once for up to 3 credits total. Pass/Fail only. Prerequisite: Junior Standing

This is a research course. The student initially meets with the department chair to select a study topic and review research methods. At this time the student will be assigned a faculty resource person to guide his or her work and assist in an advisory capacity. A copy of the student's work is filed in the archives for the department. Independent study may not duplicate courses described in the catalog.
Prerequisite(s): Senior standing or permission of the department chair.

Supervised work on an approved project involving subject matter not included in any of the standard courses. Projects are normally developed individually but may be developed in organized groups. Registration should designate the area of work.

An on-the-job experience oriented toward the student’s major interest. The student is to secure a position in an organization that satisfies the mutual interests of the instructor, the sponsor, and the student. P/F Only.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department chair.

Independent field research for all majors.

For grant recipients of the Nebraska Wesleyan University Student-Faculty Collaboration Research Fund for scholarship or research in collaboration with, or mentored by, faculty. Students carry out active, experiential learning apropriate to the students' disciplines and present the results of their projects in a university-wide local research symposium.
Pass/fail only.
A course fee will be assessed.
Prerequisite(s): Approval of the Student-Faculty Collaborative Research Committee.