AU/GU Course Descriptions
The following is a partial list of course descriptions for courses that presently are available through distance education. Additional courses are under development on a continual basis. Questions concerning the availability of a course for distance education should be directed to the AU/GU Office, 304 James White Library, Andrews University, 269.471.3960 or at dlit@andrews.edu.
If you are enrolled in a degree program at Andrews University, please request a regular undergraduate AU Bulletin, which will provide you with a full disclosure of course offerings and descriptions. This too may be requested through the AU/GU Office, Andrews University, 269.471.3960 or at dlit@andrews.edu.
Communication
English
Geography
History and Political Science
Interdisciplinary Studies
Mathematics
Music
Nutrition
Physics
Religion and Biblical Studies
Behavioral Sciences
BHSC 220/8230
Interdisciplnary Approach to Contemporary Social Issues (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: BHSC 220/8230 Interdisciplinary Approach to contemporary Social Issues
Issues include violence, crime and punishment, substance abuse, poverty, racial and gender inequality, health care, the family, work, education, and the environment. Integrates foundational social science with a Christian perspective to help students understand the origins of current societal issues and strategies for addressing those issues.
BHSC 235/7960
Culture, Place, and Interdependence (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: SOCI 280/7960 Issues in Multiculturalism: Belief Systems
Explores the history and beliefs of selected world religions and seeks to examine the role religions play in various cultures, as well as the relationship between religion and contemporary society as seen from current, ethical, historical, sociocultural, and theological perspectives.
A short paper is required.
PSYC 101/0116
Introduction to Psychology (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PSYC 210/7892 Development Psychology
Prerequisites may be required. The study of human development from conception to death. the study of the life-span development is accomplishing by examining the stages of infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The course covers the cognitive, moral, physical, social, and emotional changes that are typical at each stage of development. Two projects are required.
PSYC 269/7932
History and Systems of Psychology (3 hours)
GU Equivalent: PSYC 260/7932 Systems and history of Psychology
The developing concepts and philosophies in the field of psychology from ancient times to the present.
A paper is required.
PSYC 315/7872
Organization and Work (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PSYC 315/7872 Organization and Work
Focuses on describing, understanding, and explaining behavior in organizations. The issues of controlling, managing, and influencing behavior in the work environment are addressed.
A paper is required.
PSYC 364/0224
Learning and Behavior (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PSYC 367/0224 Psychology of Learning
An examination of the major approaches to learning theory with a review of the contribution of significant theorists in the field. Topics include classical conditioning, instrumental conditioning, secondary reinforcement, the concepts of generalization and discrimination, theories of memory, and the theory of cognitive development.
PSYC 434/8301
Research Methods IV: Advanced Statistical Analysis and SPSS (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PSYC 434/8301 Research Methods IV: Advanced Statistical Analysis and SPSS
An introduction to the basic principles of research in psychology. the main focus is on experimentation, although alternative approaches are discussed. The student is introduced to the basic principles of research through the study of experimental design, experimental control, data collection, hypothesis formation, statistical analysis, and report presentation.
PSYC 495/8071 OR 7861 OR 7881
Independent Study/Readings/Research/Project in Psychology (1-3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PSYC 495/8071 OR 7861 OR 7881 Independent Study in Psychology
Provides an opportunity to work with an instructor on a research project and/or studies in psychology.
SOCI 119/0496
Principles of Sociology (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: SOCI 105/0496 General Sociology
The development of sociology as a social science, some concepts and ideas associated with the study of human behavior, and an overview of the principles, terms, and concepts in the discipline.
SOCI 425/8191
Racial and Ethnic Relations (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: SOCI 425/8191 Racial and Ethnic Relations
A study of the distinctive racial and cultural minorities in American society with an emphasis on problems and adjustments within the larger society.
A paper is required.
SOCI 488/8260
The City in the Industrialized world (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: SOCI 488/8260 The City in the Industrialized world
The structure and development of the modern urban community with emphasis on ecological and demographic features of urban life.
Communication
COMM 104/0363
Communication Skills (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: COMM 105/0363 Introduction to Oral Communication
A study of the theory, basic levels, and forms of communication. Instruction in the processes of expression with practice in interpersonal, nonverbal, small group, and public speech exercises.
Speeches on VHS videos are required
English
ENGL 115/8490
English Composition I (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: ENGL 115/8490 English Composition I
Prerequisite for those whose native language is English: A score of 16 or higher on the ACT English Assessment (or above 400 on the SAT verbal) or successful completion of ENGL 110. Prerequisite for students whose native language is not English: An overall average of 550 on TOEFL or 80 on MELAB or a successful completion of advanced English and the ELI exit exam with a B in all classes.
Introduction to written composition focusing on composing as a recursive process for generating meaning and communicating effectively. Emphasizes short essay writing based on personal explorations of memory, observation, conversation, and reading.
ENGL 270/0353
American Literature (To 1900) (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent LITR 225/0353 American Literature I
A survey of American literature from colonial times to Civil War.
Two Short Papers Required.
ENGL 378/0372
Modern Literature in English (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: LITR 226/0372 American Literature II
A survey of American literature from the Civil War to the mid-twentieth century
A paper is required.
ENGL 464/7551
Major Author (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: LITR 455/7551 Charles Dickens and Mark Twain
Charles Dickens and Mark Twain two of the most important popular writers of their time, have come to represent the very essence of England and the United States, respectively, in the nineteenth century. Students read major works of each author, placing his artistic development into historical context, investigating the role of each author of his own society, and analyzing the way each author used humor as a social commentary.
A paper is required.
Geography
GEOG 260/7630
Cultural Geography (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: GEOG 280/7630 Cultural Geography
The cultural processes through which humans interact with the Earth's surface: the patterns that result from these processes, how people have modified the Earth, and how human use of the Earth changes over time. Topics include population and settlement, political geography, economic systems, culture regions, religion, language, folklore, and the urban landscape.
A short paper is required.
History and Political Science
HIST 117/0553
Civilization and Ideas I (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 125/0553 History of World Civilizations I
An introduction to the historical development of human civilizations from antiquity to the mid seventeenth century, which focus on the themes of political and social organization, worldview, and cultural achievements.
Also available in an electronically enhanced version.
HIST 118/0563
Civilization and Ideas II (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 126/0563 History of World Civilizations II
An introduction to the historical development of human civilizations from approximately the mid seventeenth century to the present. Emphases include the interaction between Western and non-Western cultures and the impact of key social and political ideas and movements.
Also available in an electronically enhanced version.
HIST 204/8520
American Experience I (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 275/8520 U.S. History I: Founding to Reconstruction
An introduction to the political, social, constitutional, and cultural development of the United States from the colonial era to the era of Civil War and Reconstruction.
HIST 205/8530
American Experience II (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 276/8530 U.S. History II: Guided Age to Globalization
An introduction to the political, social, constitutional, and cultural development of the United States from the end of Reconstruction to the end of the twentieth century.
HIST 316/0931
History of the Christian Church I (Cross-Listed as RELT 316) (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 325/0931 History of Christianity I: Early and Medieval Periods
The significant trends and events in the development of Christianity from the time of Christ to the Reformation, including a study of the church in relation to the Roman Empire, the influence of the church fathers, Christological controversies, the rise of the papacy, and medieval society.
HIST 317/0941
History of the Christian Church II (Cross-Listed as RELT 317) (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 326/0941 History of Christianity II: Reformation and Modern Periods
The church from pre-Reformation to the present time, its development in Europe and in America. A study of the main branches of Protestantism and their relation to the State, the Catholic counter Reformation, and the Evangelical movement.
HIST 404/0532
Adventist Heritage (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: HIST 404/0532 Adventist Heritage
An investigation of Seventh-day Adventist church history with a preliminary review of backgrounds and foundations of the Advent message from apostolic times. Concentration on the church's beginnings in America, the 1844 experience, and the history, organization, and development of the SDA denomination of America and in the world.
Also available in an electronically enhanced version.
PLSC 104/0485
American Government (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PLST 250/0485 American Government
An introduction to the forms, functions, and processes of the American local, state, and national development of political ideologies and influence groups.
Interdisciplinary Studies
IDSC 499/8390
PLA Portfolio Development (2 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: IDSC 499/8390 PLA Portfolio Development
PLA (Prior Learning Assessment) is a process that validates learning experiences that have occurred outside traditional college/university academic programs. A portfolio of evidence for demonstrating experience and competency is required. Repeatable with different topics.
International Language Studies
FREN 171/8271
Elementary French I (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: FREN 171/8271 Elementary French I
Grammar with reading and writing of simple French in the context of significant aspects of culture - oral and listening work stressed. Designed for students who have no French or less than two years of secondary school French or its equivalent. Credit no applicable toward a minor in French.
FREN 172/8281
Elementary French II (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: FREN 172/8281 Elementary French II
Prerequisite: FREN 171 or the equivalent
Available for students with two to three years of high school French Grammar and reading continued in the context of significant aspects of culture; oral and listening work progressively increased.
FREN 275/8330
Intermediate French (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: FREN 275/8330 Intermediate French
Prerequisite: FREN 172 or the equivalent
Grammar, reading, composition, and oral and aural exercises in the context of significant aspects of French culture.
Mathematics
A mathematics departmental placement examination (MPE) is required of all students planning to enter MATH 165, MATH 168, or STAT 285, A one-time fee of $75 is charged.
MATH 165/8400
College Algebra (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: MATH 165/8400 College Algebra
Prerequisite: MPE score of P2 or higher or MATH 107 (on campus) with C or higher.
Topics include linear equations and inequalities in one and two variables; exponents and polynomials; rational expressions, exponents, and roots; quadratic equations; systems of linear equations; relations, functions, and conic sections; logarithms; and an introduction to trigonometric methods and graphical techniques are presented.
MATH 168/7832
Precalculus (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: MATH 126/7832 Precalculus
Prerequisite: MPE score of P2 or higher or MATH 107 (on campus) with C or higher.
Topics include equations and inequalities; polynomial, rational; exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; trigonometric identities and equalities; roots of polynomials; and an introduction to discrete algebra. Both operational methods and graphical techniques are presented.
STAT 285/7811
Elementary Statistics (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: MATH 110/7811 Probability and Statistics
Prerequisite: MPE score of P2 or higher or MATH 107 (on campus) with C or higher.
Introduction to common elementary descriptive and inferential statistical concepts and procedures used in research and business. Designed for individuals who have basic arithmetic skills and knowledge of Emphasis is placed on practical applications rather than theoretical explanations.
Music
MUHL 214/0385
Enjoyment of Music (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: MUHL 204/0385 Music Appreciation
Designed for students with no previous background in music. Basic elements of music are covered, including melody, rhythm, texture, timbre, dynamics, form, notation, and theory, as well as the principal styles, forms, and development of Western music from the medieval to contemporary periods. The student should plan to attend one live concert.
Nutrition
FDNT 230/0414
Nutrition (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: NUTR 300/0414 Nutrition
Designed to show the relationship between good nutrition choices and a healthy lifestyle. A discussion of nutrient needs at each stage of the life cycle and the consequences of not meeting those needs.
Physics
PHYS 110/0952
Astronomy (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: PHYS 110/0952 Astronomy
Prerequisite: Algebra on the secondary level.
Topics considered include the solar system, stars and their development, star clusters, the interstellar medium, galaxies, and the large-scale features of the universe. A general education course of liberal arts students.
Religion and Biblical Studies
BIBL 204/0642
Elementary Greek I (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: GREEK 201/0642 Elementary Greek
Elements of grammar and syntax of Koine Greek of the New testament, including vocabulary, translation, and reading from the First Epistle of John and the Gospel of John. To be taken in succession.
BIBL 205/0652
Elementary Greek II (4 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: GREEK 202/0652 Elementary Greek II
Prerequisite: BIBL 204 or equivalent
A continuing study of the elements of the language of the New Testament in the context of a good working vocabulary and carefully selected readings.
BIBL 304/7760
Intermediate Greek I (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: GREEK 311/7760 Intermediate Greek I
Prerequisite: BIBL 205 or equivalent.
Intermediate course in Greek to provide a fair working knowledge of the New Testament in the original language.
BIBL 305/7770
Intermediate Greek II (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: GREEK 312/7770 Intermediate Greek II
Continues to refine the student's working knowledge of the New Testament in the original language.
RELB 210/0881
Jesus in His Time and Ours (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELB 160/0881 Jesus and the Gospels
Prerequisite: RELT 100 God and Human life.
A comprehensive study of the life and teachings of Jesus as unfolded in the four gospels with analytical attention to the gospel writers and their writing in an attempt to reveal the impact of His self-revelation on the age and ours.
Also available in an electronically enhanced version.
RELB 304/0774
Studies in Daniel (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELB 420/0774 Jewish Apocalyptical Writings: Daniel
Study of the background and content of the book of Daniel with emphasis upon interpretation of the symbolic prophecies.
RELB 305/0784
Studies in Revelation (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELB 425/0784 Christian Apocalyptic Writings: Revelation
Prerequisite: RELB 325 Prophecies of Daniel
Study of both the content and construction of Revelation. Special attention given to interpreting the apocalyptic imagery and symbols.
RELB 335/7172
Acts and Epistles (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 335/7172 Pauline Theology
An investigation of the person of Paul and his contemporary world. A study of his letters and their influences on the development of Christian theology.
RELB 374/0822
Prophets of Israel - Early Prophets (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELB 330/0822 Old Testament Prophets, Early
Includes the history of prophecy, the pre-writing prophetic figures, and the books of the writing prophets of the eight and early seventh century B.C.
RELB 375/0832
Prophets of Israel - Later Prophets (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELB 332/0832 Old Testament Prophets, Later
Includes the books of the writing of the seventh century B.C. to the end of the prophetic canon.
RELB 360/7103
Topics in Religion: World Religions (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 280/7103 Moral Issues in World Religions
An introduction to the wisdom traditions found in world religions. It includes a study of their basic beliefs and practices. It also looks at social issues faced by founders of these religions and the solutions they offer. As such, the course is philosophical, historical, and religious in its approach. Each major world religion will be studied for its own merit and not measured against any other religion.
Also available in an electronically enhanced version.
RELH 316/8051
History of the Christian Church I (cross listed as HIST 316) (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELH 314/8051 History of the Christian Church I
The significant trends and events in the development of Christianity from the time of Christ to the Reformation, including a study of the church in relation to the Roman Empire, the influence of the church fathers, Christological controversies, the rise of the papacy, and medieval society.
RELH 317/8061
History of the Christian Church II (cross listed as HIST 317) (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELH 315/8061 History of the Christian Church II
The church from pre-Reformation to the present time, its development in Europe and in America. A study of the main branches of Protestantism and their relation to the State, the Catholic counter Reformation, and the Evangelical movement.
RELP 290/7180
Introduction to Pastoral Counseling (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 290/7180 Introduction to Pastoral Counseling
The fundamental thesis of this introductory course in pastoral counseling is that pastoring is by definition counseling. Pastoral counseling is a skill based on a body of understanding. Designed to facilitate both the actual skill of counseling and the acquisition of knowledge and insights based on reading and experience.
RELP 441/7130
Introduction to Pastoral Ministry (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 255/7130 Church Leadership and Management
What constitutes good church administration is what this course is all about - combining pastoral leadership with church management. Addresses the four-dimensional role of the pastor - person administrator, church leader, and priest.
RELT 100/8151
God and Human Life (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 100/8151 God and Human Life
How god confronts human beings includes the process of Revelation, principles of interpreting Scripture and similarly inspired material, the nature of God and His expectations for humans, and the evaluation of these concepts as presented in Scripture and classic literature of various religions.
Also available in an electronically enhanced version.
RELT 225/0892
Doctrines of The Adventist Faith (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 250/0892 Principles of Christian Faith
Prerequisite: RELT 100 God and Human Life
Defines and clarifies the Biblical doctrines of the Seventh-day Adventist faith, distinguishing them within the background of the Judeo-Christian tradition.
RELT 235/7161
Principles of Bible Instruction (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 235 7161 Principles of Bible Instruction
Designed for those who wish to become effective lay or professional Bible instructors on the level of local church and community. Various methods, teaching styles, and approaches are discussed. Students are required to design a full-message series of Bible studies.
RELT 308/0853
The Gift of Prophecy (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RLGN: 360/0853 Prophetic Guidance
Prophetic Guidance (1) introduces Ellen G. White, (2) explores the context from which she emerged, (3) discusses her prophetic role in the rise and development of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and its institutions, and (4) examines issues surrounding her ministry and challenges to her credibility as a messenger of the Lord. The course presents Ellen White's prophetic ministry, describes the way in which God communicated /his messages to His messenger, and delineates the way God led her through the theological, medical, and social minefields of her day.
RELT 320/7090
Personal Evangelism (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 320/7090 Personal Evangelism
The dynamics of personal evangelism, with primary emphasis on instruction rather than exhortation. A clear biblical perspective on the priesthood of all believers; practical counsel for leading someone to Christ; a strategy for visitation; a Bible study methodology; and techniques in getting decisions.
RELT 340/7144
Religion and Ethics in Modern Society (3 sem hours)
GU Equivalent: RELT 385/7144 Christian Ethics and Modern Society
Prerequisite: RELT 100 God and Human Life.
Considers how Christianity confronts the complexities of a highly technical society. Are there universal absolutes that cross all cultural boundaries, or are all values relative? Designed to help adults articulate what molded their value system and what should help them to shape it.