This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.gmu.edu.

About the School

The School of Integrative Studies (SIS) offers a distinctive experience that addresses contemporary social, global, and environmental challenges. Students connect academic interests with hands-on learning to prepare for a life and career with meaning and impact. Based in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, SIS focuses on critical and creative thinking, engaged scholarship and diversity in thought. Graduates will lead the way as a new brand of professionals whose understanding of the liberal arts and commitment to a just world can build the cross-sector approaches necessary to solve pressing global, social, and environmental problems.

An integrative, interdisciplinary learning environment, SIS offers the benefits of small, discussion-based courses while providing access to the academic resources of a large public research university. Drawing on its award-winning faculty, SIS provides students with transformative experiential learning opportunities including internships, field and international study, and independent research and service. Both the structure and curriculum of SIS prepare graduates who are engaged, well-rounded scholars who consistently assume leadership roles in the fields of business, law, government, healthcare, education, and the non-profit sector, among others.

Undergraduate Programs

The School of Integrative Studies offers a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science degree in integrative studies, and a bachelor of arts in environmental and sustainability studies (joint degree with Environmental Science and Policy in the College of Science). The school also houses the Bachelor of Individualized Study Program.

The integrative studies curriculum is based on intensive, interdisciplinary learning communities, coordinated with traditional academic programs. The result is an integrated program of study that emphasizes collaboration, experiential learning, and self-reflection. All students complete their degree programs with an interdisciplinary concentration.

The environmental and sustainability studies degree provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge of three aspects of environmental and sustainability studies: people, prosperity, and planet. In addition to required core courses, students develop more in-depth knowledge in one of six concentrations. This degree prepares students for employment and graduate study in fields related to social justice, business and public policy, and environmental protection as they relate to the environment and sustainability.

The bachelor of individualized study (BIS) program is a degree completion program for adult learners. BIS offers students transfer credit options and a distinctive educational opportunity to integrate other college-level learning, such as professional or military experience, into university coursework. Students create interdisciplinary concentrations to meet their own educational needs including to advance professionally, to prepare for graduate or professional programs, or to plan a path toward a career change.

Transfer Students

The School of Integrative Studies welcomes transfer students from other four-year institutions or community colleges, as well as from other academic units within Mason. Academic advisors work with students to utilize transfer credits and create a plan for timely completion of the bachelor’s degree. All transfer students are required to take INTS 391 Understanding Integrative Studies within their first two semesters and meet with an academic advisor as soon as possible.

Minor Programs

The School of Integrative Studies offers minors in childhood studies, well-being, leadership, nonprofit studies, social innovation, and social justice and human rights. All are available to students in any major in the university.

The Sustainability Studies Minor is offered jointly by the Department of Environmental Science and Policy and the School of Integrative Studies. 

Centers

The School of Integrative Studies houses Social Action and Integrative Learning (SAIL), which serves all students and faculty in the university.

School Faculty

Administration

Kelly Dunne, Executive Director
Misty Krell, Director of Academic Affairs
Sara Montiel, Associate Director of Student Services
Aoi Yamanaka, Associate Director of Academic Services
Mark Sistek, Advising Director
Patricia Mathison, Director, Social Action and Integrative Learning (SAIL)

Professor

Garner

Associate Professors

Chen, Eby, Freeman, Gilmore, Lucas, Muir, Owen, Wood, Wingfield, Unruh

Assistant Professors

Erakat, McCarron, Shadur, Van Sant

Term Professor

Manuel-Scott

Term Associate Professor

Fuertes, Thurston

Term Assistant Professors

Dunne, Frye, Lazaroff, Maskell, Yamanaka

Term Instructor

Spradling

Adjunct Faculty

Bucy, Cairnie, Chollar, Christ, Gallas, Garland-Jackson, Green, Holder, Imamura, MacDonald, Miles, Parnell, Rose, Stephens, Sweetman, Taft, Teague, Zelensky, Zhang

Affiliate Faculty

Hattery, Lennon

Course Offerings

Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS)

BIS Course Schedule

300 Level Courses

BIS 300: Understanding Interdisciplinary Studies. 3 credits.
Focuses on literature and issues relevant to interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary studies and the BIS program. Students explore selected topics, develop and gather feedback on individualized concentration proposals, and review BIS program requirements. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BIS 301: Adult Learner Transition. 3 credits.
A comprehensive, research-based, problem-solving educational experience in which adult students learn the multiple factors that affect adult degree completion, assess their situation regarding these factors, and develop skills and plans to overcome the challenges of completing a bachelor’s degree as an adult. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BIS 304: Introduction to BIS. 1 credit.
This course serves new transfer students in the Bachelors of Individualized Studies (BIS) program, and assists them with a successful transition to Mason. Students develop relationships with peers, staff, and faculty. They are introduced to campus resources, with special emphasis on research and writing resources and tools, and work closely with BIS academic advisors and faculty. Notes: Only transfer students in their first or second semester at Mason are eligible to take this course. Only one of BIS 304, UNIV 300, UNIV 302, UNIV 303, UNIV 304, UNIV 305, or UNIV 308 may be taken for credit. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 304.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BIS 390: The Research Process. 3 credits.
Focuses on skills to develop a research project, find and organize relevant information, examine and critique evidence, establish criteria, and create plan to complete senior project. Notes: Open only to pre-BIS students and BIS majors. Students cannot receive credit for both BIS 390 and 391. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to BIS 391.
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Recommended Prerequisite: BIS 300 and grade of 2.0 or above in ENGL 302/ENGH 302.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Individualized Study.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BIS 391: The Research Process for Honors. 3 credits.
Focuses on skills to develop an honors-level research project, find and organize relevant information, examine and critique evidence, establish criteria, and create plan to complete Honors Senior Research Project (BIS 490). Approved research proposal required prior to registration in BIS 490. Notes: Students cannot receive credit for both BIS 390 and 391. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to BIS 390.
Recommended Prerequisite: Acceptance to pursue honors in the major.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Individualized Study.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BIS 399: Special Topics. 1-3 credits.
Selected topics reflecting interest in specialized areas. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Individualized Study.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

BIS 489: Directed Readings and Research. 1-3 credits.
Readings and research on a topic directly relevant to student's core concentration. Notes: Open only to pre-BIS students and BIS majors. Individualized sections by arrangement. Guided by instructor with expertise. Topics must be approved by instructor and BIS director prior to enrollment. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Open only to degree students in the Bachelor of Individualized Study Program.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BIS 490: RS: Senior Project. 4 credits.
Project or thesis on a topic directly relevant to student's concentration, which will be formally presented to an audience of peers and faculty. Guided by student's faculty advisor and 490 instructor. Notes: Open only to BIS majors. Individualized sections for BIS honors. Capstone course in BIS core concentration. Research proposals must be approved by faculty mentor, executive committee, and BIS director prior to enrollment. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Synthesis
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Recommended Prerequisite: BIS 390.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the LA-BIS-INDV program.

Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
BIS 495: Career Practicum. 1-6 credits.
Supervised experience in application of specified area. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Permission of instructor or BIS Director.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.

Integrative Studies (INTS)

INTS Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

INTS 101: Narratives of Identity. 6 credits.
Explores the concept of identity through the study of literature and oral communication. Introduces aesthetic, cultural, and historical aspects of these forms of communication as well as their psychological, political, and practical significance, with special emphasis on the role of communication in a free society. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Literature, Oral Communication
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Freshman.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 102: Global Networks and Communities. 6 credits.
Prepares students for participation in a global society by investigating global and local issues in a historical context. Considers critical topics of western civilization, globalization, (neo)colonialism, imperialism, and hegemony. Students gain an in-depth perspective of the intricate relationships between people and cultures at various moments in our history. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Global Understanding, Western Civilization
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Mason Impact.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 103: Human Creativity: Science and Art. 6 credits.
Investigates the vital role played by human creativity in fine arts and natural sciences. Fosters an understanding of the aesthetic and intellectual components of the arts while exploring the scientific method, the relation of theory and experiment, and the development and elaboration of major ideas in science. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Arts, Natural Science Overview
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Mason Impact.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 195: Field-Based Work. 1-6 credits.
Directed field studies in topic not otherwise available to students. Notes: Topics vary, but entire course or significant component is located off campus. In addition to fieldwork, course may also include reading assignments, tutorials, lectures, papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Students bear costs of required field trips and should consult the Center for Social Action and Integrative Learning for more information. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 24 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

200 Level Courses

INTS 202: Public Speaking and Critical Thinking Skills. 4 credits.
Combines process of learning to speak in front of audiences with analysis of arguments and persuasive appeals. Students learn how to create and present effective speeches, adapt messages to specific audiences, and evaluate and critique messages produced for others. One credit of experiential learning enables students to examine public speeches, news stories, political campaigns, and advertising, among others, to make meaningful connections between public speaking theory and practice. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Oral Communication
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 203: Inquiry for Action: Facilitating Change. 6 credits.
Examines the relationships between academic research, individual acts and society's social and political structures. Students design a community-based research project, explore a rich array of qualitative and quantitative approaches, apply information and communication technologies to all aspects of the research process, and learn from individuals and organizations outside the classroom. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Info Tech & Computing, Social/Behavioral Sciences
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 204: Leadership Theory and Practice. 4 credits.
Examines historical and contemporary leadership theories and invites students to be reflective of their own leadership experiences through the lenses of those theories. Students develop critical lenses through which to evaluate their own self-awareness, effectiveness in groups, and ability to navigate structures and systems. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 210: Sustainable World. 4 credits.
Covers basic issues in the natural and social sciences that underlie current environmental problems. Considers ethical matters such as equity as they pertain to global resource consumption, pollution, and climate change. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Natural Science with Lab
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course, Mason Impact.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 211: Introduction to Conservation Studies. 3-6 credits.
Provides foundation for the integrative study of environmental conservation. Formal and informal writing assignments and oral presentations designed to strengthen critical thinking and communication skills important to students who pursue conservation-related professions. Instructors encourage students to use course assignments and off-campus work to identify suitable educational and career paths within the conservation world. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Natural Science Overview
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 244: Beats, Rhyme, and Culture. 4 credits.
Examines the history of hip-hop and the effect it has had on our society. The primary focus is to consider hip-hop as a medium of communication that impacts, represents, and misrepresents the life experiences of youth in the United States. Students are exposed to historical, socioeconomic, and musical/aesthetic contexts of this genre through in-class activities and by attending related cultural events. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 245: Visual Culture and Society. 4 credits.
Explores the role of visual culture in contemporary society including an examination of photography, the visual and performing arts, film and video, and electronic media. Readings focus on the historical foundations of visuality as well as theories of visual culture and aesthetics. Students investigate the ways that forms of visual culture function in society and how these are linked to race, class, and gender as well as politics and economics. Students will gain hands-on experience working with contemporary visual media tools such as computer graphics and digital video editing. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Arts
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 249: Digital Literacy. 4 credits.
Investigates information literacy, the mobile web, and interactive and immersive media, including gaming, social networking, blogging and micro-blogging, intellectual, political and civic collaborations, digital aesthetics and emerging digital cultures and art forms. Explores major theories of digital literacy and culture and introduce diverse social, artistic, theoretical and cultural practices that characterize today's digital domains and virtual environments. Notes: One experiential credit is required in this class. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Info Tech & Computing
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 275: Special Topics. 1-18 credits.
Studies topics of special interest to undergraduates. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 18 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 291: Living-Learning Community. 0-1 credits.
Bridges students' academic interests with their residence hall living experience. Students with common interests live together in the same residence hall and develop personal and academic relationships with other students and faculty from their chosen Living Learning Community focus. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 8 credits.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 292: Leadership for Sustainability. 1 credit.
For students living in the Sustainability Living Learning Community and/or students panicipating in the Greenleaf ENCORE Series. Develop your understanding of sustainability in both theory and practice. Learn how change happens at Mason and identify contributions you can make to Mason's continuing pursuit of campus sustainability. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 8 credits.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 294: Service-Learning Experience. 1-15 credits.
Service-learning courses offer students, faculty, and community partners an opportunity to work together to integrate and apply knowledge to address community needs. Learning goals, action strategies, and assignments developed collaboratively. Students demonstrate progress through critical reflection that illustrates growth in acquiring and comprehending values, skills, and knowledge content. Critical reflection may take the form of papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 15 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 295: Field-Based Work. 1-18 credits.
Directed field studies in topic not otherwise available to students. Notes: Topics vary, but entire course or significant component is located off campus. In addition to fieldwork, course may also include reading assignments, tutorials, lectures, papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Students bear costs of required field trips and should consult the Center for Social Action and Integrative Learning for more information. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 24 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

300 Level Courses

INTS 300: Law and Justice. 3 credits.
Combines various teaching methods including lectures, the Socratic method, case studies, discussion of readings and films, debates, and active inquiry-based learning to investigate the major institutions in the American legal system. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 301: Science in the News. 3 credits.
Examination and discussion of the current trends in science as reported in the popular media. Students learn how to evaluate the science that is reported so they may become informed consumers; discuss how scientific advancement might shape society by looking at how science and society have changed together over time; and use examples from the past to discuss future trends. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Natural Science Overview
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 303: Introduction to International Studies. 3 credits.
Explores a multi-disciplinary approach to addressing world issues. Combines lectures, field trips, discussion of readings, films, case studies, projects, and active inquiry-based learning to examine the natural environment, infectious disease and globalization, media and technologies, and war and violent conflict, with an attempt to deepen community members' understanding of an increasingly interdependent world. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Global Understanding
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 304: Social Movements and Community Activism. 4 credits.
Examines how citizens, individually and collectively, accomplish social change in society through case study analysis. Considers advantages and limits of social change strategies from communication and social movement theory perspectives. Surveys topics including how leaders maintain momentum in face of opposition; how movements and organizations use slogans, symbols and music to inspire followers; and how participants construct persuasive media campaigns and political arguments to facilitate policy change. Notes: One credit of experiential learning enables students to explore their role as social advocates and effective citizens in context of community. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 305: Conflict Resolution and Transformation. 6 credits.
Examines the nature and dynamics of conflict and ways to resolve and transform conflict. Experiential learning is used as the vehicle through which students explore their assumptions about communication and develop their skills for resolving interpersonal conflicts. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 310: Violence and Gender. 3-6 credits.
Using nonfiction, research documentaries, oral histories, case studies, literature, feature films, music, dance, and visual arts, examines the dynamics of violence through different cultural lenses. Students work in university and community settings to integrate their academic experiences with practice. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 311: The Mysteries of Migration: Consequences for Conservation. 6 credits.
Investigates the biology of migration and its implications for science policy. Students consider the phenomenon of migration in the context of natural history, conservation, and cultural issues. The course includes several weekend trips for field study. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Natural Science with Lab
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Writing Intensive in Major
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 312: Images and Experiences of Childhood: Social Construct, Literature, and Film. 3-6 credits.
Immerses students in the images of childhood through the media of literature, video, and poetry, with a strong emphasis on historical perspectives of childhood. The class is interactive, requires some work in groups, and requires classroom participation. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to HIST 386, HIST 498.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 314: Conflict, Trauma and Healing. 6 credits.
Develops in students an appreciation of human resilience and helps them acquire better coping mechanisms. Imparts knowledge of the nature and dynamics of trauma and healing. Investigates the difficulties people face in responding to settings of conflict such as war, school shootings, abuse, domestic violence, including natural disaster. Examines case studies from a variety of personal, national, and international settings. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 315: Spirituality and Conflict Transformation. 6 credits.
Examines dimensions of spirituality, including peacemaking efforts in large-scale conflicts, conflicts within faith communities, and interpersonal disputes. Experiential learning explores spiritually informed resolution. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Global Understanding
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 316: Introduction to Childhood Studies. 4 credits.
Focuses on the study of childhood from birth to adolescence from the perspective of several disciplines. Covers childhood theory, research, and policy and their applications to decisions regarding children and youth. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 317: Issues in Family Relationships. 4 credits.
Dynamics of family systems and issues that shape relationships among family members. How families evolve as members grow, leave, and create related family systems; family roles and forms; and communication patterns, decision- making, conflict, stress, and power. Content draws from family communication, family relations, psychology, and counseling. Lecture, discussion, observation, analysis, research, and role-playing. Notes: One credit counts for experiential learning; students complete 45 credits of course-related work outside classroom. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Prerequisite: Minimum of 55 hours completed.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 319: Contemporary Youth Studies. 3 credits.
Examines the history of positive youth development, how scholars study youth, and the theories they use to guide their research. Evaluates the policies and programs aimed at empowering youth. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 320: Construction of Differences: Race, Class, and Gender. 6 credits.
Investigates race, sex, sexual orientation, and social class in contemporary American society. Examines commonalities in the construction of these categories and experiences of those who occupy them. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 321: Parent-Child Relations. 3 credits.
Introduces students to concepts and challenges in parenting, along with family diversity and risk factors. Considers interactions between parents and children from birth to adolescence as well as cross-cultural, historical, and societal influences. Explores efforts that have been successful in changing detrimental parenting actions. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 322: Teacher: A Historical Perspective. 3 credits.
Examines the rich heritage of the teaching profession in Western society. Traces the history of educational philosophy and teaching, beginning with the ancient Greeks and culminating in the 21st century United States. Using the exploration of the various philosophies of education as a foundation, examines contemporary images of teachers in literature and film. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 331: The Nonprofit Sector. 4 credits.
Readings, classroom discussions and activities, and practical experience reveal historical, legal, and socioeconomic forces that define and influence the American nonprofit sector. Explores structures, issues that affect nonprofit management, governing, and financial systems. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 332: Business and Sustainability. 3 credits.
Examines the types of approaches businesses can take to take to respond to sustainability concerns, Designed to prepare students for assisting organizations to incorporate sustainability considerations into their strategic decision-making. Notes: Students from multiple disciplines (business, social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, education, etc.) can participate in the class without having had previous courses in management. Offered by Environmental Science & Policy. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to EVPP 322.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 334: Environmental Justice. 4 credits.
Examines historical and contemporary sociopolitical and socioeconomic conditions that have given rise to the environmental justice movement. Analyzes how individuals contribute to environmental justice or injustice through everyday decisions. Considers how environmental justice movement responds to these issues. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course, Writing Intensive in Major
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 336: Poverty, Wealth and Inequality in the US. 3 credits.
Explores the social, cultural, political, and spiritual implications of poverty, wealth, and inequality in the United States. Examines the ways in which class identity informs one's views of the world and its politics; how socioeconomic status affects one's access to education and other social goods; and how dominant discourses and stereotypes related to poverty influence mass perception regarding a range of social issues, from educational policy to welfare. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 337: Social Justice Consciousness and Personal Transformation. 3 credits.
Explores the many spaces at which the quest to strengthen social justice consciousness interacts with processes and commitments for personal transformation. Analyzes through the lens of the activist and in the spirit of bringing mindfulness to activism, how we come to see and experience the world. Examines how socialization informs consciousness. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 344: Youth, Music, & Social Change. 4 credits.
Introduction to the theoretical underpinnings of music, popular and youth culture, and social and political change. While music is generally relegated to a subcategory of popular culture, or viewed as a mere minor facet of youth culture, in this class we will examine its impact and importance as a rhetorical and communicative vehicle, specifically in regards to its instrumentality in social and political movements. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 346: Art as Social Action. 4 credits.
This learning community explores historical records to understand different ways art has been produced, distributed, and consumed. Examines ways artists have affected change in their worlds. Through interdisciplinary studies, teaches major social movements and artists and theories used in socially engaged art. Students engage in experiential learning outside classroom as course requirement. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Arts
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 347: Gender Representation in Popular Culture. 3-6 credits.
Explores the way in which masculinity and femininity have been represented across the decades in television, movies, music videos, pop art, and print media. Provides a review of the scholarship on the historical and contemporary roles of women and men in society, and examines the contradictions and expectations associated with gender roles. Incorporates active group learning through creative, insight-oriented exercises, critical thinking and discussions, and group presentations and media research activities. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 348: Digital Futures. 3,6 credits.
Investigates important contemporary issues such as surveillance-privacy, censorship, piracy, gender and ethnicity, digital labor and play, mobile media and globalization, and the commercialization and political potential of the digital public spheres. Introduces students to the latest technological, philosophical and creative thinking on the future of human society in a digital age. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: NCLC 249 or INTS 249
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 355: Mindfullness, Meaning & Well-Being. 3 credits.
Explores the science of well-being, including theories and practices linked to various domains of well-being such as mindfulness, resilience, life-satisfaction, happiness, mind-body wellness, and meaning and purpose. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 356: Foundations of Resilience and Well-Being. 3 credits.
Focusing on the individual in context, examines the growing research, science, and literature on well-being and resilience. Considers the many ways in which resilience can be learned and developed on individual, community, and organizational levels. Explores how resilience promotes growth and restores efficacy and agency, leading to higher levels of flourishing. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 360: The Built Environment. 6 credits.
Examines, records, and interprets objects, structures, and landscapes that compose our built environment. Draws on the fields of historical archaeology, architectural history, and urban geography, and employs photography, cartography, and evocative writing to represent the material world we inhabit. Builds on study of one neighborhood in Arlington, Virginia, and expands to entire metropolitan area. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to ANTH 315, ANTH 399.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 361: Neighborhood, Community, and Identity. 3-6 credits.
Examines processes of neighborhood formation and transformation in the context of urbanism, suburbanism, immigration, and transmigration. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 362: Social Justice and Human Rights. 3 credits.
Considers the philosophical foundations of social justice and human rights. Explores the interpretive difficulties related to identifying what constitutes human rights abuses, and evaluates regional perspectives on human rights. Analyzes institutions that strive to promote and enforce social justice and human rights standards including the United Nations system, regional human rights bodies, and domestic courts. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 365: Independent Study. 1-12 credits.
Individualized section form required. Study of a topic not otherwise available to the student. May involve any combination of reading assignments, tutorials, lectures, papers, presentations, or field/laboratory study (determined in consultation with instructor) Students are encouraged to work as a team on a particular topic. Notes: Maximum 12 credits can be used to fulfill graduation requirements. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 370: Sustainable Food Systems. 6 credits.
Examines the evolution of US food systems with particular emphasis on the national capital region. Students place conventional agriculture and food systems in historical context; examine changing representations of food systems in film, literature, and other media; and research alternative systems that emphasize sustainability. Through a combination of classroom work and experiential learning, this course asks students to contemplate how capitalism, industrialization, and environmental ethics shape our land, culture, and society. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 371: Food Systems and Policy. 3 credits.
Examines the roles of individuals, corporations, and government in creating and communicating food policy. Students explore the rationale and rhetorics of US agriculture, food production and the environment, food and beverage processing, food safety and labeling, food sales and marketing, dietary guidance, and federal food assistance programs. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 375: Special Topics. 1-18 credits.
Studies topics of special interest to undergraduates. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 18 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 390: International Internship. 1-6 credits.
Internship credit may be applied to 12 credits required in experiential learning. Notes: Students may take no more than 6 credits in any one semester, unless approved by director of experiential learning or executive director. Structured and supervised professional experience, within an approved agency, for which the student earns academic credit. The primary purpose of an internship is to connect the student's academic course work to experiences and challenges outside the university classroom. The faculty also expects that students will enhance their competencies and skills and explore career options. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 24 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
INTS 391: Understanding Integrative Studies. 3 credits.
Familiarizes students with the theory and practice of integrative learning. Challenges students not only to learn but also to think deeply about what, why, how, and for what purposes you learn. Focuses on exploration of identities and civic engagement as a global citizen. Emphasizes lifelong learning and preparation for academics and careers. Develops oral and written communication skills, critical thinking, and research skills. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Integrative Studies.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 394: Service-Learning Experience. 1-15 credits.
Service-learning courses offer students, faculty, and community partners an opportunity to work together to integrate and apply knowledge to address community needs. Learning goals, action strategies, and assignments developed collaboratively. Students demonstrate progress through critical reflection that illustrates growth in acquiring and comprehending values, skills, and knowledge content. Critical reflection may take the form of papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 15 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 395: Field-Based Work. 1-18 credits.
Directed field studies in topic not otherwise available to students. Notes: Topics vary, but entire course or significant component is located off campus. In addition to field work, course may also include reading assignments, tutorials, lectures, papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Students bear costs of required field trips and should consult the Center for Social Action and Integrative Learning for more information. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 24 credits.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 396: Teaching Assistant Experience. 1-6 credits.
Teaching assistantship and peer-mentoring duties carried out through existing university programs, such as Technology Assistants, Writing Tutors, and Residence Advisors. Also includes teaching assistantship arrangements for specific courses detailed in individualized course contract signed by instructor and student. In addition to peer mentoring/advising, course work may include logistical support, reading assignments, papers, presentations, and portfolios. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 15 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 397: Add-On Experiential Learning. 1-3 credits.
For students who wish to add one or more experiential learning credit to existing experiential learning course or learning community. Notes: May also be used by students who wish to add an experiential learning component to course that provides no experiential learning credit (with permission of instructor). Unless experiential learning add-on requirements are spelled out in course syllabus, requirements for add-on experiential learning credit must be detailed in individualized course contract signed by instructor and student. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 4 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 398: Field-Based Work. 1-15 credits.
Experiential-based individualized studies, mentored by instructor. Notes: Topics decided by student and instructor and approved by executive director. Requirements must be detailed in individualized course contract signed by student, instructor, and executive director. May include reading assignments, papers, journals, and portfolios. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 15 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 399: Study Abroad. 1-6 credits.
Intended for participation in formally organized course offered by Center for Global Education. A maximum of 15 credits may apply toward INTS degree requirements. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 32 credits.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

INTS 400: Temptress: Constructs of Sex and Power. 3 credits.
Examines the portrayal of powerful and/or sexual women throughout history, identifying famous historical "temptresses" and investigating the facts known about them. Explores representations and perceptions of contemporary female sexuality, considering possible future concepts and images of female power and sexuality. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 401: Conservation Biology. 6 credits.
Provides students with a working knowledge of conservation biology. Integrates the study of social, economic, and political factors with biodiversity, population modeling, habitat degradation, and management issues. Students confront the leading edge of this exciting field by developing real species conservation plans. The experiential learning component of the course will include trips to the Smithsonian Institution's Conservation and Research Center in Front Royal, Virginia, to study with nationally known experts. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Natural Science with Lab
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Recommended Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 402: Plants and People - Sustenance, Ceremony, and Sustainability. 6 credits.
Examines the direct relationships between people and plants by integrating perspectives from both ethnobotany and economic botany. Provides students with an appreciation of the fundamental role of plants and plant-derived products in all aspects of human life in both industrialized and non-industrialized societies. Explores how plants and their uses have shaped both past and present cultures around the world. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 403: Conservation Behavior. 6 credits.
Introduces students to conservation behavior, a field that seeks to apply theories of animal behavior towards solving biological conservation and wildlife management problems. Consists of interactive lectures, readings (including a text and primary literature) and discussion, and hands-on, inquiry-based experiential learning while working in groups at the National Zoo to design and conduct independent behavioral-based research on endangered species. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Natural Science with Lab
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 404: Ethics and Leadership. 4 credits.
Uses an interdisciplinary approach to deepen and broaden student's learning about theories, models, and constructs related to the study and practice of ethics and leadership. Teaches students to develop ethical decision making strategies, communicate effectively in diverse group settings, value civic engagement and actively apply ethical leadership skills. Includes experiential learning activities and discussions that connect formal knowledge with real world experiences and includes one credit of experiential learning. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 405: Women and Leadership. 4 credits.
Examines leadership within the context of the theoretical principles of women's studies through discussion of course texts, interactive exercises, field trips, documentary films, guest speakers, and reflection. Investigates the role that gender plays in the various forms of leadership and leadership styles. Explores the historical record of women in leadership roles, identifying the barriers as well as the opportunities. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 406: Global Leadership. 3 credits.
Develops a concept of global leadership, emphasizing the critical importance of ethical decision-making, social responsibility, and cultural awareness. Students formulate the construction process of a global mindset and begin to develop a personal philosophy of global leadership. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Global Understanding
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 410: Contemporary Health Issues. 3-18 credits.
Looks at a variety of health and health care issues. Examines several of the major health concerns of women and, to a lesser degree, men. Also explores the biology and medical implications of these diseases and how our society deals with potential life-altering information. Examines who is making the decisions on the allocation of research funds and prevention of diseases. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to WMST 300.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 416: Refugee and Internal Displacement. 3 credits.
Provides students with a deeper understanding of refugee and internal displacement. Explores causes of displacement and its impact on people and societies. Studies the role played by governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the international community in addressing problems faced by refugees in internally displaced persons in terms of relief assistance and humanitarian services. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Global Understanding
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 417: Human Trafficking and Smuggling. 3,6 credits.
Explores the complexity of human trafficking and smuggling, one of the fastest growing criminal enterprises in the world. Examines forms of human trafficking and smuggling and the countries that serve as source, transit or destinations of trafficked and smuggled individuals and groups. Studies the role of the international community in addressing trafficking and smuggling, including regional and national authorities and non-governmental agencies. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 419: Youth Resistance and Advocacy. 3 credits.
Focuses on contemporary perspectives on youth, resistance, and advocacy, both in the form of social movements and subcultures. Asks questions such as: When do everyday activities constitute "resistance"—and resistance to what?—and how do everyday forms of resistance relate to broader forms of historical change? How do these forms of resistance perpetuate forms of exclusion and inequality? Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 420: Work Effectiveness Skills. 3 credits.
Develops a variety of work-readiness skills needed to become successful in both local and global marketplaces. Topics and skills covered include communication, problem solving in the business setting, workplace ethics, listening skills, how to influence others, building team project rapport, and meeting effectiveness skills. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 422: An Experiential Approach to American Foreign Policy. 3-6 credits.
Takes an experiential approach to the study of American foreign policy. Through case studies, discussions, group projects, and directed research, students learn how foreign policy is made and executed and how they as citizens, activists, or officials can influence national decisions. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 431: Principles of Fund Raising. 4 credits.
Examines history of philanthropy and public policy, and the economic and legal frameworks that shape it. Combining theory and practice, students study human behavior, communications, and management systems that are hallmarks of successful fund raising, and begin to develop skills to generate donations, foundation grants, and other unearned revenue for a nonprofit organization. Notes: Includes 1 experiential learning credit. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: INTS 331.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 434: Research for Social Change. 3 credits.
Introduces interdisciplinary research methods for social change. Explores students' epistemological assumptions, and use tools of inquiry and discovery to explore transformative approaches to scholarship. Examines multiple critical approaches to inquiry including auto-ethnography and ethnography, feminist and indigenous research methods, participatory action research, critical quantitative analysis, and more. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 435: Leadership in a Changing Environment. 4 credits.
Examines diverse definitions and processes of change across multiple complex contexts. Focuses on identifying innovative, collaborative solutions to seemingly intractable social problems. Explores topics such as social change and globalization, creative conflict resolution, the nature of power, oppression and influence, and systemic leadership. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: 60 credits.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 436: Social Justice Education. 4 credits.
Examines educational policy, practice, and materials using a variety of lenses informed by social justice theory and praxis. Investigates ways in which racism, sexism, economic injustice, heterosexism, ageism, and other forms of discrimination influence schools and educational access and opportunity for youth. Considers and practices what individuals and communities can do to ensure that all students have equitable educational opportunities. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 437: Critical Race Studies. 3 credits.
Engages students in an examination of the forms and impacts of racism, as well as movements for racial justice, in the United States. Draws on theoretical frameworks including critical race theory and intersectionality theory in order to examine the structural roots of racism and the implicit and explicit ways in which racism manifests today. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 438: Representations of Race. 4 credits.
Investigates the social and cultural construction of racial categories that have led to inaccurate and stereotypical representations that persist and cause harm today. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 440: Death, Dying, and Decision Making. 3 credits.
Interdisciplinary examination of clinical care of dying persons along with psychosocial issues related to processes of death and dying. Special emphasis on application of ethical principles in resolving complex problems for individuals with life-threatening illnesses and their families as care givers or decision makers. Students consider the changing norms and mores surrounding end-of-life decisions and explore the care available to terminally ill patients. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: 60 credits or Permission of Instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 450: Social Innovation in Action. 4 credits.
Develops students' capacity to engage in positive social change. Examines social innovation approaches, including social and political entrepreneurship, philanthropy, corporate responsibility and social movements. Explores how social innovators catalyze multistakeholder collaborations across commercial, governmental and nonprofit sectors, exploring social innovation through case studies, best practice analyses and relevant readings. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 451: Leadership and Organizational Problem-Solving. 4 credits.
Offers a dynamic, practical, and hands-on approach to synthesizing our leadership philosophy with real problem-solving and decision-making skills. Through cases and experiential learning, students will work through framing and diagnosing problems as well as identifying and implementing solutions. Integrates students' interests with the tools necessary to be an organizational problem-solver. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 455: Consciousness and Transformation in Action. 3 credits.
Covers how principles and practices of consciousness and transformation relate to the major and career pathway it represents. Includes the theory and practices for deepening the student's own experience with the mindfulness and contemplative approaches to inquire. Capstone course for the minor in consciousness and transformation. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: NCLC 355 or INTS 355.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 465: Independent Study. 1-12 credits.
Individualized section form required. Study of a topic not otherwise available to the student. May involve any combination of reading assignments, tutorials, lectures, papers, presentations, or field/laboratory study (determined in consultation with instructor) Students are encouraged to work as a team on a particular topic. Notes: Maximum 12 credits can be used to fulfill graduation requirements. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 470: Professional Pathways in Sustainable Food Systems. 1 credit.
Culminating experience for Environmental and Sustainability Studies majors enrolled in the Sustainable Food and Agriculture concentration. Focused on helping students see how their specific talents, interests and experiences can prepare them for specific professional roles within the emerging field of sustainable food systems. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 475: Special Topics. 1-18 credits.
Studies topics of special interest to undergraduates. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 18 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 490: Internship. 1-6 credits.
Students may take no more than 6 credits in any one semester, unless approved by executive director. A maximum of of 12 credits can apply to the degree. Structured and supervised professional experience, within an approved agency, for which the student earns academic credit. The primary purpose of an internship is to connect the student's academic course work to experiences and challenges outside the university classroom. The faculty also expects that students will enhance their competencies and skills and explore career options. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
INTS 491: The Senior Capstone Experience. 3 credits.
Should be taken semester before graduation; 85 credits required. Graduation requirement for integrative studies students. Students complete final SIS portfolio and senior exposition. Provides information on issues of professional development (interviewing skills, resume development, career strategies, and alumni opportunities). Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 492: Graduation Portfolio. 0 credits.
Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree.
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
INTS 494: Service-Learning Experience. 1-15 credits.
Service-learning courses offer students, faculty, and community partners an opportunity to work together to integrate and apply knowledge to address community needs. Learning goals, action strategies, and assignments developed collaboratively. Students demonstrate progress through critical reflection that illustrates growth in acquiring and comprehending values, skills, and knowledge content. Critical reflection may take the form of papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 15 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 495: Field-Based Work. 1-18 credits.
Directed field studies in topic not otherwise available to students. Notes: Topics vary, but entire course or significant component is located off campus. In addition to field work, course may also include reading assignments, tutorials, lectures, papers, presentations, portfolios, journals, and exams. Students bear costs of required field trips and should consult the Center for Social Action and Integrative Learning for more information. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 24 credits.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 496: Teaching Assistant Experience. 1-6 credits.
Teaching assistantship and peer-mentoring duties carried out through existing university programs, such as technology assistants, writing tutors, and residence advisors. Also includes teaching assistantship arrangements for specific courses detailed in individualized course contract signed by instructor and student. In addition to peer mentoring/advising, course work may include logistical support, reading assignments, papers, presentations, and portfolios. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 15 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 497: Add-On Experiential Learning. 1-3 credits.
For students who wish to add one or more experiential learning credit to existing experiential learning course or learning community. Notes: May also be used by students who wish to add an experiential learning component to course that provides no experiential learning credit (with permission of instructor). Unless experiential learning add-on requirements are spelled out in course syllabus, requirements for add-on experiential learning credit must be detailed in individualized course contract signed by instructor and student. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 4 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
INTS 498: Field-Based Work. 1-15 credits.
Experiential-based individualized studies, mentored by instructor. Notes: Topics decided by student and instructor and approved by executive director. Requirements must be detailed in individualized course contract signed by student, instructor, and executive director. May include reading assignments, papers, journals, and portfolios. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 15 credits.
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.

500 Level Courses

INTS 500: Animal Rights: Issues and Movements. 3 credits.
Explores forms of animal exploitation and abuse, and examines the relationship between humans and non - human animals, drawing from a variety of disciplines and fields such as feminist studies, animal studies, sociology, ethics, critical studies, and environmental studies. Assessment of the methods and strategies used by organizations and movements in order to redress animal exploitation. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 504: Leadership Theory, Praxis, and Development. 3 credits.
Explores contemporary leadership theories, models, and concepts using a theory-to-practice-to theory framework. Covers leadership theory, supporting research, and practical application. Focuses on active learning through classroom presentations, course texts, a reflection on theory and practice, and team work. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Special scale.
INTS 534: Research for Social Change. 3 credits.
Introduces interdisciplinary research methods for social change. Explores students' epistemological assumptions, and employs methods of inquiry and discovery to explore transformative approaches to scholarship. Examines multiple critical approaches to inquiry, including auto-ethnography and ethnography, feminist and indigenous research methods, participatory action research, critical and quantitative analysis. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 535: Leadership in a Changing Environment. 3 credits.
Examines change and its elements by asking students to explore and design innovative, collaborative solutions to seemingly intractable social problems. Considers and discerns topics such as social change and globalization, creative conflict resolution, the nature of power, oppression and influence, and systemic leadership. Explores methods of personal and social transformation and examine the strategies, and ideas of effective social change advocates in the 21st century. By the course’s end, each student will develop a creative proposal for solving a societal problem. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 537: Critical Race Studies. 3 credits.
Engages students in an examination of the forms and impacts of racism, as well as movements for racial justice in the United States. Draws on theoretical frameworks including critical race theory and intersectionality theory in order to examine the structural roots of racism and the implicit and explicit ways in which racism manifests today. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 538: Representations of Race. 4 credits.
Investigates the social and cultural construction of persistent and harmful racial categories. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 540: Contemporary Issues in Social Justice & Human Rights. 3 credits.
Students will examine, study the socio-historical significance of, and consider solutions for some of the most pressing social justice and human rights issues in the world today. The issues examined will cut across identity, region, and scope, and may include concerns as varied as human trafficking, hegemony, animal abuse, child labor, and sexism. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 550: Social Innovation In Action. 3 credits.
Develops students' capacity to engage in positive social change. Examines social innovation approaches, including social and political entrepreneurship, philanthropy, corporate responsibility and social movements. Explores how social innovators catalyze multistakeholder collaborations across commercial, governmental and nonprofit sectors, exploring social innovation through case studies, best practice analyses and relevant readings. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 575: Special Topics. 3-4 credits.
Studies topics of special interest to graduate students pursuing integrative, multidisciplinary degrees. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
INTS 595: Experiential Learning. 1-3 credits.
Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

600 Level Courses

INTS 675: Special Topics. 3-4 credits.
Studies topics of special interest to graduate students pursuing integrative, multidisciplinary degrees. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy or Graduate.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.