Peace and Social Justice Studies Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
PSJ 100
Fnd of Peace & Social Justice
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course provides an introduction to issues of peace and social justice, skills of social analysis, and actions for social change. The course addresses questions of poverty and inequality, the environment, and human rights. It surveys features of the modern world widely considered to be problematic, including the extent of serious poverty; the dynamics of gender and racial discrimination; questions of human rights; and situations of war and other forms of violence. The emphasis, however, is not on the state of the world but on ways of understanding it: on histories and theories of causes, effects, and solutions. The course does not teach to a predetermined notion of “justice,” or to a particular political point-of-view, and it is not inherently “pacifist.” It does, however, problematize inequality, conflict, and violence, and it introduces students to resources for analysis of and engagement with the world.
This course provides an introduction to issues of peace and social justice, skills of social analysis, and actions for social change. The course addresses questions of poverty and inequality, the environment, and human rights. It surveys features of the modern world widely considered to be problematic, including the extent of serious poverty; the dynamics of gender and racial discrimination; questions of human rights; and situations of war and other forms of violence. The emphasis, however, is not on the state of the world but on ways of understanding it: on histories and theories of causes, effects, and solutions. The course does not teach to a predetermined notion of “justice,” or to a particular political point-of-view, and it is not inherently “pacifist.” It does, however, problematize inequality, conflict, and violence, and it introduces students to resources for analysis of and engagement with the world.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 110
Conflict Transformation
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2010)
Designed as a broad introduction to the philosophy and practice of conflict transformation, this course will familiarize students with various theoretical understandings of conflict. Beginning with the premise that conflict is a normal part of daily life, the course will examine conflict as an important dynamic in personal growth and social transformation, as well as a source of alienation, violence, and war. Students will explore conflict at a personal, communal, national, and international level. They will be encouraged to examine critically their underlying assumptions and beliefs about conflict and their patterns of response to conflict. An interdisciplinary approach drawing on both social science and spiritual perspectives will be used to explore conflict/communication styles, the role of power, systemic analysis, the dynamics of change, and intervention in interpersonal, organizational, and inter-group conflicts.
Designed as a broad introduction to the philosophy and practice of conflict transformation, this course will familiarize students with various theoretical understandings of conflict. Beginning with the premise that conflict is a normal part of daily life, the course will examine conflict as an important dynamic in personal growth and social transformation, as well as a source of alienation, violence, and war. Students will explore conflict at a personal, communal, national, and international level. They will be encouraged to examine critically their underlying assumptions and beliefs about conflict and their patterns of response to conflict. An interdisciplinary approach drawing on both social science and spiritual perspectives will be used to explore conflict/communication styles, the role of power, systemic analysis, the dynamics of change, and intervention in interpersonal, organizational, and inter-group conflicts.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 186
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PSJ 205
Peace/Justice:Theory/Practice
Prerequisites: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
A study of the theory and practice of global activitism for peace and social justice. Students will study social movement theory and significant non-violent movements of the 20th and 21st centuries, including such movements as the Indian movement for self-rule led by Mahatma Gandhi, the American Civil Rights Movement, and the Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa. Students will also acquire practical skills in community organizing and movement-building, such as effective advocacy, strategic analysis, and facilitation. The course includes a service-learning project in which students apply what they have learned to an activist project with a local community organization. Active Learning Requirement and Religion Perspective.
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
A study of the theory and practice of global activitism for peace and social justice. Students will study social movement theory and significant non-violent movements of the 20th and 21st centuries, including such movements as the Indian movement for self-rule led by Mahatma Gandhi, the American Civil Rights Movement, and the Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa. Students will also acquire practical skills in community organizing and movement-building, such as effective advocacy, strategic analysis, and facilitation. The course includes a service-learning project in which students apply what they have learned to an activist project with a local community organization. Active Learning Requirement and Religion Perspective.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 210
Diversity and Social Justice
An exploration of the major types of diversity in the United States, focusing on the extent to which current theory and practice encourages or discourages social justice. Topics to be considered include theories and practices of racism, classism, sexism, heterosexism, ableism, ageism, and adultism. This experiential course also examines social actions aimed at creating a more diverse world. Noncredit for students who completed it as PSJ 233 during Short Term.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 225
Envr Justice(AFR/APS/SENS/WST)
Prerequisite: GSTR 210
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2011)
This course is an introduction to the study of Environmental Justice and issues associated with access to, and equitable sharing of, the products of a healthy environment, including clean water and air, healthy food, non-toxic communities, and environmental security. The history of the environmental-justice movement beginning with its foundations in the Civil Rights and Environmental movements will be studied, followed by a survey and analysis of current issues of environmental justice, particularly in relation to minority and poor communities in the United States and worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the role of women and African Americans as participants in the environmental-justice movement, and the analysis of environmental-justice issues in Appalachia. African Americans’, Appalachians’, and Women’s Perspective. NOTE: Noncredit for students who took SENS 460 in Fall 2005 or Fall 2006.
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2011)
This course is an introduction to the study of Environmental Justice and issues associated with access to, and equitable sharing of, the products of a healthy environment, including clean water and air, healthy food, non-toxic communities, and environmental security. The history of the environmental-justice movement beginning with its foundations in the Civil Rights and Environmental movements will be studied, followed by a survey and analysis of current issues of environmental justice, particularly in relation to minority and poor communities in the United States and worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the role of women and African Americans as participants in the environmental-justice movement, and the analysis of environmental-justice issues in Appalachia. African Americans’, Appalachians’, and Women’s Perspective. NOTE: Noncredit for students who took SENS 460 in Fall 2005 or Fall 2006.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 240
Comm Organizing in Appalachia
This course explores community organizing in Appalachia from contemporary and historical perspectives. Students will be introduced to community organizing as empowerment through collective action to achieve social justice. The focus of the course will be community organizing in the Appalachian context. The course includes a five-day trip to selected locations in the region to visit key community organizations and organizers, including the Highlander Center, Appalshop, and Kentuckians for the Commonwealth. Topics to be investigated include models of organizing; stages of organizing, including the question of organizational sustainability; skills in organizing, including communication, facilitation, and strategy development; critical issues in the region, from mountaintop removal to economic inequality; and distinctive features of Appalachian approaches to community organizing. By the end of the course, students will be knowledgeable of both the theory and practice of Appalachian community organizing.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 286
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PSJ 305
Conflict Transformation
Designed as a broad introduction to the philosophy and practice of conflict transformation, this course will familiarize students with theoretical understandings of conflict. Beginning with the premise that conflict is a normal part of daily life, the course will examine conflict as an important dynamic in personal growth and social transformation, as well as a source of alienation, violence, and war. Students will explore conflict at a personal, communal, national, and international level. They will be encouraged to critically examine their underlying assumptions and beliefs about conflict and their patterns of response to conflict. An interdisciplinary approach, drawing on both social science and spiritual perspectives, will be used to explore conflict/communciation styles, the role of power, systemic analysis, the dynamics of change, and intervention in interpersonal, organizational, and inter-group conflicts.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 386
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PSJ 390A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 395
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
PSJ 397A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 398
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 486
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PSJ 490A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Department Chairperson, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 390/490A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 390/490B if approved as non-ALE.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Department Chairperson, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 390/490A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 390/490B if approved as non-ALE.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 495
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
PSJ 497A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PSJ 498
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
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