THE HONORS PROGRAM AT ALVERNIA COLLEGE

Excellence, Interaction, Enthusiasm

Liberal Studies Course Offerings

The Bible as Literature
This course will educate students on how to apply techniques of literary criticism to books or passages in the Bible. Students will also learn to appreciate the excellence of the biblical writings in assorted genres, parable, short story, long narrative, lyrical poetry, and drama. They will benefit from a fresh reflection on the Bible.

America ’s Second Revolution
This course examines the development in politics, literature, science, popular entertainment, communication, and sociology during the turbulent in American history fro the assassination of John F. Kennedy (1963) to the election of Jimmy Carter (1976). Students will gain a better understanding of events and individuals that shaped the country and the world in which they live. They will also develop an appreciation of military, social, and cultural changes that have had lasting impact on America. They will learn from individuals who lived through many of these experiences how “history” comes to be made.

God, Science, and Designer Genes
Should we be able to create the perfect child or to clone loved ones? These and other troubling questions will be addressed in this course. Modern genetic science has raised a number of ethical issues in light of new and emerging technologies. This course will provide an interdisciplinary approach, examining important questions such as whether or not we are playing God, and addressing issues such as cloning, stem cell research, gender selection, and genetic discrimination.

Environmental Justice & Ethics
This interdisciplinary course will begin with (1) and overview of the harmful biological effects of environmental pollution, followed by (2) legal issues including investigation and enforcement, and (3) activism, advocacy, and social justice issues. The primary focus of the course will include in-depth analysis of the two prominent cases - Love Canal, New York and Woburn, Massachusetts.

Science, Technology, and Literature
A multi-media and critical approach to fiction and some non-fiction concentrating on the impact of science and technology on modern life; authors include H.G. Wells, Aldous Huxley, Michael Crichton, Ursual K. Le Guin, and Nancy Kress.

For More Information, Contact:
Dr. Victoria Williams, Director of the Honors Program
Francis Hall 406
Office Phone (610) 796-5511
Victoria.williams@alvernia.edu

Updated: October 12, 2006

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