Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
The Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences Program offers students advanced interdisciplinary study in the arts and sciences. Students develop their ability to think analytically, critically and imaginatively; communicate logically and persuasively; and work creatively with others. These abilities prepare students to participate in workplace and civic leadership in a democratic society, to enrich their personal lives and their communities, and to appreciate and care for the natural environment. A liberal education develops both the knowledge underlying technical and professional learning, and the values on which enterprises, institutions, and global civilization depend.
Faculty
Interim Director
Bruce Burgett, Ph.D., 1993, University of California, Berkeley; English
Associate Directors
Diane Gillespie, Ph.D., 1982, University of Nebraska, Lincoln; educational psychology and social foundations
Martha Groom, Ph.D., 1995, University of Washington; zoology, conservation biology
Professors
Bruce Burgett, Ph.D., 1993, University of California, Berkeley; English
Warren Buck, Ph.D., 1976 (Chancellor Emeritus), College of William and Mary; Physics
JoLynn Edwards, Ph.D., 1982, University of Washington; art history
Diane Gillespie, Ph.D., 1982, University of Nebraska, Lincoln; educational psychology and social foundations
Jeanne Heuving, Ph.D., 1988, University of Washington; English
Charles Jackels, Ph.D., 1975, University of Washington; physical chemistry
Daniel Jacoby, Ph.D., 1985, University of Washington; economics
Daniel Jaffe, Ph.D., 1987, University of Washington; chemistry
Gray Kochhar-Lindgren, Ph.D., 1990, Emory University; literature and cultural theory
Norman Rose, (Emeritus) Ph.D., 1960, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; chemistry
Robert C. Schultz, (Emeritus), Ph.D., 1969, Emory University; philosophy
William Seaburg, Ph.D., 1994, University of Washington; anthropology
Linda S. Watts, Ph.D., 1989, Yale University; American studies
Alan Wood, Ph.D., 1981, University of Washington; history
Associate Professors
Constantin Behler, Ph.D., 1990, Stanford University; German studies and humanities
Steven Collins, Ph.D., 1994, University of Virginia; government and foreign affairs
Colin Danby, Ph.D., 1997, University of Massachusetts, Amherst; economics
Nives Dolšak, Ph.D., 2000, Indiana University, Bloomington; public policy, environmental policy, international relations
Warren Gold, Ph.D., 1988, Utah State University, Logan; plant ecology
Michael Goldberg, Ph.D., 1992, Yale University; American studies
Martha Groom, Ph.D., 1995, University of Washington; zoology, conservation biology
Kanta Kochhar-Lindgren, Ph.D., 1999, New York University; performance studies
Marc Servetnick, Ph.D., 1985, University of California, Berkeley; zoology
David L. Stokes, Ph.D., 1994, University of Washington; zoology
Elizabeth Thomas, Ph.D., 1998, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; community psychology
Assistant Professors
Benjamin Gardner, Ph.D., 2007, University of California, Berkeley; geography
Susan Harwood, Ph.D., 2006, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; communications
Cinnamon Hillyard, Ph.D., 1999, Utah State University, Logan; mathematics
Ron Krabill, Ph.D., 2003, New School for Social Research; sociology and historical studies
Kari Lerum, Ph.D., 2000, University of Washington; sociology
Peter Littig, Ph.D., 2005, University of Washington; mathematics
Joe Milutis, Ph.D., 2000, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; modern studies
Keith Nitta, Ph.D., 2006, University of California, Berkeley; political science
Rebecca M. Price, Ph.D., 2003, The University of Chicago; evolutionary biology
J. Eric Stewart, Ph.D., 2000, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; community and clinical psychology
Robert J. Turner, Ph.D., 1999, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill; marine sciences
Wadiya Udell, Ph.D., 2004, Columbia University: developmental psychology
Senior Lecturers
Michael Gillespie, Ph.D., 1974, Southern Illinois University; philosophy
Bruce Kochis, Ph.D., 1979, University of Michigan; Slavic languages and literature
Genevieve McCoy, Ph.D., (delete)
John R. Rasmussen, Ph.D., 1972, Dartmouth College; mathematics
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
Admission Requirements
NOTE: IAS conducts a holistic review of all applications. A 2.5 minimum cumulative gpa is expected. Special circumstances may allow for admission of students with lower cumulative gpas (between 2.0 and 2.4).
Applicants applying with 80 or more credits:
1. 3 years high school math (2 years algebra) or Intermediate algebra in college. Minimum grade of
2.0 if taken in college.
2. Two years (high school) OR 10 quarter credits (college) of a single foreign language or through
102 with a passing grade.
3. English Composition (Five quarter credits), 10 credits preferred to include a writing and research
course.
4. Quantitative/Symbolic Reasoning (Five quarter credits in Math or Logic). Does not apply to
students who enrolled in college for the first time prior to Autumn Quarter, 1985.
5. 15 quarter credits in Natural World*
6. 15 quarter credits in Visual, Literary, and Performing Arts*
7. 15 quarter credits in Individuals and Societies*
Applicants applying with 45-79 credits: Same as above, but only 10 credits needed in each of the Areas of Knowledge (Natural World; Visual, Literary and Performing Arts; Individuals and Societies).
See UW Course Equivalency Guide for courses that will fulfill the Areas of Knowledge requirements at individual colleges.
Graduation Requirements
Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Studies major must complete the following program requirements, in addition to the general graduation requirements of the University, to be eligible for graduation with the Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies:
Non-Matrculated Status: NO CREDITS TAKEN IN NON-MATRICULATED STATUS MAY COUNT TOWARD THE 70 MAJOR CREDITS.
Select one of the following options within the major:
1. American Studies (AMS)
2. Community Psychology (CP)
3. Culture, Literature and the Arts (CLA)
4. Environmental Studies (ES) See ES option information for prerequisite and graduation requirements.
5. Global Studies (GST)
6. Individualized Study (IS)
7. Interdisciplinary Arts (IA)
8. Science, Technology and Society (STS) See STS option information for prerequisite requirements.
9. Society, Ethics and Human Behavior (SEB)
Complete 70 credits to include the following:
- BIS 300 - Interdisciplinary Inquiry (5 credits). BIS 300 should be taken in the first quarter of enrollment.
- At least one option core within the declared option (5 credits)
- Seven additional courses within the declared option (35 credits)
- Additional IAS coursework (20 credits)
- Senior Seminar (5 credits)
In addition to the 70 credits within the major, complete 20 credits of general electives.
For information on graduation requirements for Individualized Study and Environmental Studies, please refer to the option descriptions listed below.
Areas of Knowledge: Within the above-listed 90 credits, a minimum of ten (10) credits each in Visual, Literary and Performing Arts (VLPA); Individuals and Societies (I&S); and Natural World (NW) to be taken in IAS courses (BIS or BES prefix) at the 200, 300, or 400 levels. Those students admitted with fewer than 15 credits in any or all of the Areas of Knowledge must take enough additional credits in those areas to meet the graduation requirement of 25 credits in each of the Areas of Knowledge. Multiply-designated courses may not be double-counted as fulfilling two Areas of Knowledge.
200-level Coursework: Up to 35 credits of 200-level coursework taken at UW Bothell may be applied toward designated requirements within the 90 credits. Please contact an IAS adviser for details.
NOTE: Within the 35 credits of CP, students must complete both BIS 312 (Approaches to Social Research) AND BIS 315 (Understanding Statistics) with a minimum grade of 2.0 in each course.
NOTE: Within the 35 credits of IA, students must complete 15 credits of Art Studios and Workshops.
NOTE: Within the 35 credits of SEB, students must complete at least one of the following courses in research methods at UWB (with a minimum grade of 2.0): BIS 312 (Approaches to Social Research), BIS 315 (Understanding Statistics), or BIS 410 (Topics in Qualitative Inquiry).
NOTE: Within the 35 credits of STS, students must complete BES 301 (Science Methods and Practice) and BIS 315 (Understanding Statistics) with a minimum grade of 2.0 in each course.
Senior Seminar (BIS 490)
The Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences faculty is committed to helping students develop their intellectual abilities across the curriculum, especially those required for excellent writing and speaking. The emphasis on writing and speaking across the curriculum, culminating in the senior seminar, represents an added commitment on the part of the faculty and staff to extend and enrich the student's educational experience. The student's responsibilities for this aspect of the program include:
- Compile a portfolio of graded work.
- Enroll in a senior seminar (5 credits) or senior thesis (10 credits over 2 quarters).
All senior seminars begin with a mandatory self-assessment of each student's portfolio in consultation with the instructor. Students in a senior seminar are required to complete a major piece of written work. Students must receive a minimum course grade of 2.5 in the senior seminar to graduate.
ES and STE students have the option of completing a senior seminar, the Restoration Ecology Capstone (10 credits over three quarters) or other capstone project (10 credits over two quarters).
Internships: Students interested in pursuing an Internship should visit our website for application information and requirements. Questions should be sent to Internship@uwb.edu.
Options
1. American Studies (Classes in this option are offered primarily during daytime hours.)
American Studies (AMS) provides students with the analytical skills and multicultural perspective necessary to understand the cultures of those groups and individuals who live within and across the shifting borders of the United States and the Americas. AMS students may draw on a variety of methods to explore this subject area including history, literature, media and the arts, politics, economics, religion, education, the legal system, and race and gender. Courses in AMS pay particular attention to the values, fears, and myths that emerge in the range of texts that shape Americans and are shaped by them. AMS students engage an exciting range of archival material, including Hollywood films, folklore, music, novels, Web pages, advertisements, poetry, television, print media, personal letters and diaries, drama, government and legal documents, photographs, clothing, architecture, painting, and census records.
AMS graduates may pursue careers in editing, public history, publishing, journalism, diversity training, education, content provision for e-businesses, and other careers that require an in-depth understanding of American culture. AMS also prepares students for advanced study in history, literature, public policy, law, and American studies.
How should a student prepare for this option? While there are no official requirements, students choosing this option will find it helpful to have completed one college course in U.S. history, one in American literature, media, or art, and one in American institutions, policies, or social structures.
American Studies (AMS) Option Courses
Key:** AMS listing dependent upon topic
A. Introduction to American Studies (AMS core courses)
BIS 363 Conflict and Connection in the Americas
BIS 364 Public Memory and Dissent in American Culture
BIS 365 Exploring American Culture: Popular and Consumer Culture
BIS 366 Exploring American Culture: Americans at the Margins
BIS 367 Exploring American Culture: Race, Ethnicity, and Immigration
BIS 368 Sex, Love, Romance
B. Methods and Modes of Inquiry
BIS 312 Approaches to Social Research
BIS 410 Topics in Qualitative Inquiry
C. Literature, Media, and Art in Cultural Context
BIS 204 Introduction to Journalism
BIS 309 History of Dance in Europe and America
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community and Everyday Life
BIS 319 Interdisciplinary Arts
BIS 322 **Topics in Performance Studies
BIS 325 Disability and Human Rights
BIS 336 Native American Cultures: The Northwest Coast
BIS 339 **Issues in Global Cultural Studies
BIS 341 **Topics in the Study of Culture
BIS 347 History of American Documentary Film
BIS 349 Hollywood Cinema and Genres
BIS 351 Topics in American Culture
BIS 357 Native American Religious and Philosophical Thought
BIS 360 Literature, Film and Consumer Culture
BIS 361 Studies in American Literature
BIS 370 Nineteenth Century American Literature
BIS 371 Twentieth Century American Literature
BIS 378 Languages of Poetry
BIS 379 American Ethnic Literatures
BIS 383 American Art and Architecture
BIS 384 Literary and Popular Genres
BIS 385 Cross-Cultural Oral Traditions
BIS 387 Women and American Literature
BIS 389 American Indian Literature
BIS 407 Children's Literature and Reader Response Criticism
BIS 418 Masculinity, Homoeroticism, and Queer Theory in America
BIS 451 Northwest Indian Myths and Tales
BIS 455 Literature and Sexuality
BIS 460 **Topics in Critical Theory
BIS 464 ** Topics in Advanced Cinema Studies
BIS 465 Performance, History, Memory
BIS 476 ** Issues in Art History
BIS 481 Modernism, Postmodernism, and American Literature
BIS 484 Arts Learning in the Community
BIS 486 **Studies in Women and Literature
BIS 487 Topics in American Literature
D. Policies, Institutions, and Social Structure
BIS 219 The Politics of Sex Education
BIS 224 Introduction to Feminist Studies
BIS 242 Environmental Geography
BIS 275 Social Problems
BIS 280 U.S. Political Processes
BIS 304 Institutions and Social Change
BIS 305 ** Issues in Social and Political Philosophy
BIS 307 Science, Technology, and Society
BIS 308 ** Issues in Philosophy and Culture
BIS 314 **Topics in Geography
BIS 321 U.S. Politics and Culture from 1865
BIS 323 U.S. Politics and Culture to 1865
BIS 327 History of U.S. Labor Institutions
BIS 330 Democratic Capitalism in the United States
BIS 331 The Family in U.S. Society
BIS 333 The Individual and Society
BIS 335 Human Rights in America
BIS 338 Political Institutions and Processes
BIS 343 Community Psychology
BIS 353 Human Rights in Theory and Practice
BIS 359 Ethics and Society
BIS 362 Contemporary Political Ideas and Ideologies
BIS 369 Women Across Cultures
BIS 391 Environmental History of the Pacific Northwest
BIS 392 Water and Sustainability
BIS 401 **Topics in Economic History and Analysis
BIS 403 Washington DC Seminar on Human Rights
BIS 414 Topics in Human Rights
BIS 415 Public Policy and Law
BIS 419 Urban Politics and Policy
BIS 421 Technology Policy
BIS 425 Topics in United States Social and Political History
BIS 426 Comparative Urban Politics
BIS 431 **Issues in Sexual Politics and Culture
BIS 433 Gender, Work and Family
BIS 436 Comparative Family Systems
BIS 440 **Topics in Everyday Social and Cultural Life
BIS 443 Educational Policy and the American Economy
BIS 444 **Issues in Comparative History
BIS 445 Meanings and Realities of Inequality
BIS 463 U.S. Women's History
BIS 470 Art, Politics, and Social Change
E. Advanced American Studies
BIS 423 The City in American Culture
BIS 424 Topics in American Studies
BIS 461 Studies in U.S. Intellectual and Cultural History
BIS 462 The Culture of the Cold War in America
BIS 467 Post-1945 U.S. Youth Culture
2. Community Psychology (Classes in this option are offered primarily during daytime hours.)
Community psychology draws on interdisciplinary perspectives and approaches to examine social problems and promote the well-being of people in their communities. While the field draws heavily from psychology, it also draws from theory and practice in sociology, community development, ecology, public health, anthropology, cultural and performance studies, public policy, social work, and social justice movements. Through community research and action, community psychologists produce knowledge that can inform social policies, social service work, helping practices, and community change.
The option in Community Psychology will focus on the following interrelated themes:
1) the social, interpersonal, and intrapersonal factors that affect people's well-being and quality of life, 2) human and social problem definition and problem solving, 3) interdisciplinary methods and approaches to community action research, and 4) community intervention strategies and social change. While there is quite a bit of overlap in the interests of the SEB option and the Community Psychology (CP) option, CP focuses more heavily on the health and well-being of individuals within communities. SEB focuses more heavily on social institutions, social policies, and ethical issues faced by contemporary societies. Both options include the theories and research methods of psychology and social science.
The Community Psychology option provides rigorous academic preparation for students who wish to pursue careers in human services, community development mental health, family and youth programs, counseling, prevention, program evaluation, community arts, multicultural program development, and human relations. The option also prepares students for graduate work in a variety of academic and applied research fields including
Psychology, sociology, counseling, public health, and social work as well as interdisciplinary graduate work in the arts, humanities, and social sciences including cultural studies and policy studies.
How should a student prepare for this option? There are no formal prerequisites for Community Psychology. Useful preparation for this option includes coursework in psychology, sociology, anthropology, public policy, statistics and/or research methods. Students will need strong skills in writing, speaking, collaboration, and community-based work.
Community Psychology (CP) Option Courses:
Key:** CP listing dependent on topic.
A. CP Core Course
BIS 343 Community Psychology
B. Methods Courses
BIS 232 Using, Understanding and Visualizing Quantitative Data
BIS 312 Approaches to Social Research
BIS 315 Understanding Statistics
BIS 410 Topics in Qualitative Inquiry
BIS 447 Topics in Quantitative Inquiry
C. Community Psychology Courses
BIS 219 The Politics of Sex Education
BIS 220 Developmental Psychology
BIS 223 Introduction to Narrative Ethnography
BIS 225 Applied Social Psychology
BIS 270 Abnormal Psychology
BIS 271 History of Psychology
BIS 275 Social Problems
BIS 304 Institutions and Social Change
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community, and Everyday Life
BIS 325 Disability and Human Rights
BIS 331 The Family in U.S. Society
BIS 333 The Individual & Society
BIS 335 Human Rights in America
BIS 337 Risk and Resilience
BIS 348 Cultural Psychology
BIS 359 Ethics and Society
BIS 366 Exploring American Culture: Americans at the Margins
BIS 367 Exploring American Culture: Race, Ethnicity, and Immigration
BIS 369 Women across Cultures
BIS 390 Ecology and the Environment
BIS 430 Social Theory and Practice
BIS 431 Sexual Politics and Cultures
BIS 433 Gender, Work, and Family
BIS 434 Psychology and the Visual Arts
BIS 435 Interactive Learning Theory
BIS 436 Comparative Family Systems
BIS 437 Narrative Psychology
BIS 438 Prevention and Promotion
BIS 445 Meanings and Realities of Inequality
BIS 450 Performance and Healing
BIS 457 Thinking and Decision Making
BIS 484 Arts Learning in the Community
BIS 489 Projects in Community Psychology
D. Topics
BIS 316 Topics in Psychology
BIS 322 **Topics in Performance Studies
BIS 346 **Topics in Environmental Policy
BIS 414 Topics in Human Rights
BIS 425 **Topics in United States Social and Political History
BIS 440 **Topics in Everyday Cultural and Social Life
BIS 480 **International Study Abroad
3. Culture, Literature, and the Arts
The Culture, Literature and the Arts (CLA) option focuses on how the broadly defined fields of literature and the arts operate within multiple cultures. Students engage in aesthetic, theoretical, and historical methods in order to gain insight into such traditional arts as novels, poetry, dance, and painting as well as such mass-market driven forms as film and advertisement. Close attention is paid to how diverse cultures constitute themselves through different representational practices and beliefs.
The CLA option provides excellent preparation for a range of careers in such fields as education, journalism, publishing, public relations, public service, arts management and museum programs. It also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in a variety of programs in the arts and humanities, including literature, art history, cultural studies, and media studies.
How should a student prepare for this option? Entering students should be able to write an analytical paper and should have at least two courses in literature or the visual arts. Historical knowledge and competency in foreign languages is highly desirable.
Culture, Literature and the Arts (CLA) Option Courses:
Key: ** CLA listing dependent upon topic.
A. Introduction to Culture, Literature and the Arts (CLA core courses)
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community and Everyday Life
BIS 360 Literature, Film and Consumer Culture
BIS 380 Art and Its Context
BIS 384 Literary and Popular Genres
B. Creative Writing
BIS 207 Introduction to Creative Writing: Words, Stories, Dialogues
BIS 310 Creative Writing: Poetry
BIS 311 Creative Writing: Prose
C. Art, Film, and Literary Histories
BIS 206 Engaging Literary Arts
BIS 208 Experimenting through the Arts
BIS 209 Engaging Visual Arts
BIS 212 Engaging Performing Arts
BIS 215 Literature into Film
BIS 301 Narrative Forms
BIS 309 History of Dance in Europe and America
BIS 319 Interdisciplinary Arts
BIS 347 History of American Documentary Film
BIS 349 Hollywood Cinema and Genres
BIS 361 Studies in American Literature
BIS 370 Nineteenth Century American Literature
BIS 371 Twentieth Century American Literature
BIS 372 Comparative Arts in 18th Century Europe
BIS 374 Arts Workshop
BIS 376 Circa 1500: Arts of West and East
BIS 378 Languages of Poetry
BIS 379 American Ethnic Literatures
BIS 383 American Art and Architecture
BIS 387 Women and American Literature
BIS 389 American Indian Literature
BIS 407 Children's Literature and Reader Response Criticism
BIS 451 Northwest Indian Myths and Tales
BIS 476 Issues in Art History
BIS 481 Modernism, Postmodernism, and American Literature
BIS 483 Advanced Arts Workshop
BIS 484 Arts Learning in the Community
D. Thought and Theory
BIS 308 Issues in Philosophy and Culture
BIS 357 Native American Religious and Philosophical Thought
BIS 452 Marx, Nietzsche, Freud
BIS 460 **Topics in Critical Theory
BIS 461 Studies in U.S. Intellectual and Cultural History
E. Culture Studies
BIS 203 History of InterArts
BIS 204 Introduction to Journalism
BIS 205 Technologies of Expression
BIS 222 Travel and Cultural Difference
BIS 223 Introduction to Narrative Ethnography
BIS 260 Introduction to World Religions
BIS 264 Africa on Film
BIS 313 Issues in Media Studies
BIS 314 **Topics in Geography
BIS 317 Language, Society and Cultural Knowledge
BIS 322 Topics in Performance Studies
BIS 325 Disability and Human Rights
BIS 329 **Topics in Mathematics Across the Curriculum
BIS 339 Issues in Global Cultural Studies
BIS 341 Topics in the Study of Culture
BIS 348 Cultural Psychology
BIS 351 Topics in American Culture
BIS 354 Modern European Intellectual History
BIS 364 Public Memory and Dissent in American Culture
BIS 365 Exploring American Culture: Popular and Consumer Culture
BIS 366 Exploring American Culture: Americans at the Margin
BIS 367 Exploring American Culture: Race, Ethnicity, and Immigration
BIS 368 Sex, Love, Romance
BIS 369 Women Across Cultures
BIS 373 Cultural History of Rome
BIS 385 Cross-Cultural Oral Traditions
BIS 417 Paris: The City and Its History
BIS 418 Masculinity, Homoeroticism, and Queer Theory in America
BIS 423 The City in American Culture
BIS 424 Topics in American Studies
BIS 431 **Issues in Sexual Politics and Cultures
BIS 434 Psychology and the Visual Arts
BIS 440 **Topics in Everyday Social and Cultural Life
BIS 450 Performance and Healing
BIS 455 Literature and Sexuality
BIS 462 The Culture of the Cold War in America
BIS 464 Topics in Advanced Cinema Studies
BIS 467 Post 1945 U.S. Youth Culture
BIS 470 Art, Politics, and Social Change
BIS 474 Topics in European Cultural History
BIS 478 Art Patronage and Markets
BIS 480 **International Study Abroad
BIS 486 Studies in Women and Literature
BIS 487 Topics in American Literature
BIS 488 Topics in British Literature
F. Historical Epochs
BIS 261 World History I
BIS 262 World History II
BIS 263 World History III
BIS 321 U.S. Politics and Culture from 1865
BIS 323 U.S. Politics and Culture to 1865
BIS 326 Twentieth Century Eastern Europe
BIS 400 Modern Japan
BIS 402 Modern China
BIS 404 Twentieth Century Russia
BIS 406 Modern France
BIS 408 Contemporary Britain
BIS 409 Modern Germany
BIS 427 Global History I
BIS 428 Global History II
BIS 429 Global History III
4. Environmental Studies (Classes in this option are offered primarily during daytime hours.)
The Environmental Studies (ES) option within the Interdisciplinary Studies major is designed for students who want to act critically and creatively in response to the environmental challenges facing the world today. The option's two pathways (Sustainability and Society [S&S] and Conservation Science and Management [CSM]) share a commitment to educating future practitioners who can address those challenges in their professional careers and personal lives.
ES teaches students to integrate environmental knowledge across the natural and social sciences, as well as the arts and humanities. Hands-on learning, field experiences, and problem-based instruction focus on finding answers to complex problems that include scientific, social, political, cultural, and ethical dimensions.
Graduating Environmental Studies students develop careers in management, planning, advocacy, communications, and policy-making across a wide array of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. They also pursue disciplinary and interdisciplinary graduate education in environmental fields that range across the arts, humanities, and social and natural sciences.
Prerequisites
1. One introductory Chemistry course (BCUSP 142 or equivalent)
2. One introductory Biology course (BES 180 or equivalent)
3. One introductory Earth System Science course (BIS 242 or Geology or Oceanography or Physical Geography or equivalent)
4. One introductory Statistics course (BIS 232 or equivalent.). Students can be admitted to the major without having met this requirement if they enroll in BIS 315 during their junior year.
Graduation Requirements (All 3xx and 4xx courses are under development)
Requirements for both S&S and CSM
BIS 300 Interdisciplinary Inquiry (5)
BES 301 Science Methods & Practice OR BIS 312 Approaches to Social Research (5)
BIS 243 Introduction to Environmental Studies (5)
BES 312 Ecology OR BIS 390 Ecology and the Environment (5)
Political Economy or Environmental Economics (BCUSP 200, BIS 320, 324, 394 or equiv.) (5)
BIS 356 Ethics and the Environment OR BIS 3xx Foundations of Environmental Thought (5)
BIS 490 Senior Seminar or Senior Capstone Experience (5-10)
Sustainability and Society Pathway : Conservation Science and Management Pathway
Pathway Core Requirements
CSMP: BIS 3xx Introduction to GIS (5)
SSP: Sustainability Focus courses: 10 credits
CSMP: BES 485 Conservation Biology (5)
Pathway Distribution Requirements
Lists of courses in each category are shown on the following pages
Environmental Science - 5 credits : Environmental Science - 5 credits
Methods & Practices - 5 credits : Methods & Practices - 5 credits
Society & Environment - 10 credits : Society & Environment - 5 credits
Policy & Management - 5 credits : Policy & Management - 10 credits
Sustainability Focus
Courses in this area directly incorporate substantial knowledge and approaches to the study of sustainability as a major focus of the course.
BIS 240 Introduction to Sustainable Practices
BIS 392 Water & Sustainability
BIS 459 Conservation & Sustainable Development
BIS 3xx Topics in Sustainability
Pathway Distribution Course Lists
The following courses satisfy pathway distribution requirements in the Environmental Studies option. An empty box indicates the course satisfies the distribution requirement for that pathway. A box with an "X" indicates that it does not. Courses taken to fulfill pathway cores and other requirements may not be used to fulfill distribution requirements.
Environmental Science Courses | S&S | CSM | |
BIS 306 | Marine Diversity and Conservation | ||
BIS 396 | Nature and the Northwest | ||
BES 311 | Environmental Chemistry | ||
BES 362 | Introduction to Restoration Ecology | ||
BIS 386 | Global Environmental Issues | ||
BES 397 | Special Topics in Env. Science | ||
BES 3xx | Evolution | ||
BES 3xx | Environmental Microbiology | ||
BES 3xx | Hydrogeology | ||
BES 430 | Air Pollution and Health | ||
BES 460 | Water Quality | ||
BES 485 | Conservation Biology | X | |
BES 488 | Wetland Ecology | ||
BES 489 | Pacific Northwest Ecosystems | ||
BES 490 | Pacific Northwest Plants | ||
BES 4xx | Adv. Topics in Env. Science | ||
BES 4xx | Adv. Topics in Ecol. and Cons. Biology | X |
Methods & Practices Courses | S&S | CSM | |
BES 302 | Environmental Problem Solving | X | |
BES 316 | Ecological Methods | ||
BES 317 | Soils Laboratory | ||
BES 303 | Env. Monitoring Practicum (3) | ||
BES 3xx | Pacific Northwest Plants | ||
BES 3xx | Science Writing | X | |
BIS 3xx | Intro. to Geographic Info. Systems | X | |
BIS 410 | Topics in Qualitative Inquiry | X | |
BES 415 | Adv. Env. Meas. Laboratory | X | |
BES 439 | Comp. Model. & Vis. in Env. Sci. | X | |
BES 460 | Water Quality | ||
BES 487 | Field Lab Wildland Plants and Soils | ||
BEDUC | 493: Environmental Education | X | |
BES 4xx | Env. Interpretation | ||
BES 4xx | Field Applications in Env. Science | ||
BES 4xx | Field Applications in GIS |
Society & Environment Courses | S&S | CSM | |
BIS 281 | Global Politics | ||
BIS 282 | Globalization | ||
BIS 303 | History and Globalization | ||
BIS 304 | Institutions and Social Change | ||
BIS 320 | Comparative Political Economies | ||
BIS 324 | International Political Economy | ||
BIS 333 | Individual and Society | ||
BIS 353 | Human Rights Theory & Practice | ||
BIS 356 | Ethics and the Environment | ||
BIS 358 | Issues in Environmental Science | ||
BIS 359 | Ethics and Society | ||
BIS 362 | Contemp. Political Ideas & Ideologies. | ||
BIS 365 | Pop. & Consumer Culture | X | |
BIS 386 | Global Environmental Issues | ||
BIS 390 | Ecology and the Environment | ||
BIS 391 | Env. History of the Pacific Northwest | ||
BIS 392 | Water and Sustainability | ||
BIS 394 | Comparative Economic Development. | ||
BIS 395 | Future Washington | ||
BIS 3xx | Foundations of Env. Thought | ||
BIS 3xx | Eco-arts | ||
BIS 411 | Biotechnology and Society | ||
BIS 445 | Meanings & Realities of Inequality. | ||
BIS 458 | Energy, Environment & Society | ||
BIS 459 | Conservation and Sustain. Develop. | ||
BIS 470 | Art, Politics and Social Change |
Env Policy & Management Courses | S&S | CSM | |
BIS 338 | Political Institutions &Processes | ||
BIS 346 | Topics in Environmental Policy | ||
BES 362 | Intro. to Restoration Ecology | X | |
BIS 4xx | Environmental Policy | ||
BIS 415 | Public Policy and Law | ||
BIS 419 | Urban Politics and Policy | ||
BIS 421 | Technology Policy | X | |
BIS 458 | Energy, Env. and Society | ||
BES 485 | Conservation Biology | X | |
BES 486 | Watershed Ecol & Management | ||
BPOLST 492 | Topics in Policy Research | ||
BIS 4xx or BBUS 4xx | Environmental Management | ||
BIS 4xx | Land Use Planning & Conservation | ||
BIS 4xx | Environmental Impact Assess. |
5. GLOBAL STUDIES
Increasingly, it has become imperative for citizens in this country to understand better the complex and disparate global interactions involving trade, politics, immigration, the environment, technology, and culture. The Global Studies (GST) option provides an interdisciplinary, integrative approach to these concerns. Global Studies also permits students to pursue area studies that focus on particular regions of the world, such as Asia or Europe, human rights, political economy and cultural studies. International study opportunities enhance student participation in this option.
GST graduates may pursue careers in government, law, non-profit organizations, communications, businesses dealing with global markets, journalism and information industries of all kinds. In addition, students will be prepared to pursue graduate work in international studies, law, business, history, and political science among other areas.
How should a student prepare for this option? There are no formal prerequisites for Global Studies. It is recommended that students who wish to pursue the Global Studies option take as many introductory courses in economics, political science, geography, history, art history, foreign language, or anthropology as possible.
Global Studies (GST) Option Courses:
Key:** GST listing dependent on topic.
A. GST Core Courses
BIS 303 History and Globalization
BIS 324 International Political Economy
BIS 362 Contemporary Political Ideas and Ideologies
B. Skills Courses
BIS 232 Using, Understanding and Visualizing Quantitative Data
BIS 230 Mathematical Thinking for the Liberal Arts
BIS 312 Approaches to Social Research
BIS 315 Understanding Statistics
BIS 410 Topics in Qualitative Inquiry
BIS 447 Topics in Quantitative Inquiry
C. GST Courses
BIS 222 Travel and Cultural Difference
BIS 224 Introduction to Feminist Studies
BIS 242 Environmental Geography
BIS 243 Introduction to Environmental Issues
BIS 260 Introduction to World Religions
BIS 261 World History I
BIS 262 World History II
BIS 263 World History III
BIS 264 Africa on Film
BIS 280 U.S. Political Processes
BIS 281 Global Politics
BIS 282 Globalization
BIS 304 Institutions and Social Change
BIS 305 **Issues in Social and Political Philosophy
BIS 307 Science, Technology, and Society
BIS 308 **Issues in Philosophy and Culture
BIS 309 History of Dance in Europe and America
BIS 313 Issues in Media Studies
BIS 314 **Topics in Geography
BIS 317 Language, Society and Cultural Knowledge
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community and Everyday Life
BIS 320 Comparative Political Economies
BIS 322 **Topics in Performance Studies
BIS 325 Disability and Human Rights
BIS 326 Twentieth Century Eastern Europe
BIS 328 Contemporary European Politics
BIS 329 **Topics in Mathematics Across the Curriculum
BIS 330 Democratic Capitalism in the United States
BIS 332 The Rise of East Asia
BIS 334 Traditional Chinese History
BIS 339 Issues in Global Cultural Studies
BIS 344 International Relations
BIS 353 Human Rights in Theory and Practice
BIS 354 Modern European Intellectual History
BIS 355 History of Science and Technology
BIS 358 Issues in Environmental Science
BIS 363 Conflict and Connections in the Americas
BIS 367 Exploring American Cultures: Race, Ethnicity and Immigration
BIS 369 Women Across Cultures
BIS 372 Comparative Arts in 18th Century Europe
BIS 373 Cultural History of Rome
BIS 376 Circa 1500: Arts of West and East
BIS 380 Art and Its Context
BIS 385 Cross-Cultural Oral Traditions
BIS 386 Global Environmental Issues
BIS 392 Water and Sustainability
BIS 394 Comparative Economic Development
BIS 400 Modern Japan
BIS 401 **Topics in Economic History and Analysis
BIS 402 Modern China
BIS 403 Washington D.C. Seminar on Human Rights
BIS 404 Twentieth Century Russia
BIS 406 Modern France
BIS 408 Contemporary Britain
BIS 409 Modern Germany
BIS 412 Ideas in Political Economy
BIS 413 Nations and Nationalism
BIS 414 Topics in Human Rights
BIS 416 Problems in International Political Economy
BIS 417 Paris: The City and Its History
BIS 420 Colonizing History in Sub-Saharan Africa
BIS 426 Comparative Urban Politics
BIS 427 Global History I
BIS 428 Global History II
BIS 429 Global History III
BIS 430 Social Theory and Practice
BIS 431 **Issues in Sexual Politics and Cultures
BIS 432 Democracy in Asia
BIS 436 Comparative Family Systems
BIS 440 **Topics in Everyday Social and Cultural Life
BIS 441 Global Labor Markets
BIS 444 **Issues in Comparative History
BIS 459 Conservation and Sustainable Development
BIS 460 **Topics in Critical Theory
BIS 465 Performance, History, Memory
BIS 470 Art, Politics and Social Change
BIS 474 **Topics in European Cultural History
BIS 476 **Issues in Art History
BIS 478 Art Patronage and Markets
BIS 480 International Study Abroad
BIS 486 **Studies in Women and Literature
6. Individualized Study
The Individualized Study (IS) option is designed for highly-motivated students who want to create their own course of study. IS students work closely with one or more faculty mentors in IAS or other programs at UWB as they shape a degree suited to their intellectual and professional interests and ambitions.
The IS option allows students to create degree options in subjects ranging from science communication and environmental education to gender studies and digital arts. The resulting student-driven curriculum includes formal and informal meetings between students and their faculty mentors, along with a portfolio-based process of self-reflection on the learning as it evolves. Students interested in pursuing the Individualized Study option work with a faculty member to develop a substantive proposal. This proposal is then reviewed by a faculty oversight committee. Once approved, requirements vary from proposal to proposal.
Graduating IS students develop careers and pursue graduate education in a wide variety of fields, depending on their chosen area of study. As important, they gain experience and document success in one of the crucial predictors of success in any of those fields: the ability to undertake a self-directed project in collaboration with others, to reflect critically on its development in process, and to complete it in a timely fashion.
Standard UW and IAS degree requirements including BIS 300, the senior seminar, and areas of knowledge, remain in effect, as they do for all other IAS degree options and majors, with a total of 180 credits required for graduation.
7. Interdisciplinary Arts (Classes in this option are offered primarily during daytime hours.)
The Interdisciplinary Arts (IA) option is designed for students who want to create art and to learn about the world through the creative arts. It links written, visual, media, and performance arts, and explores meaning and potential arts making across diverse social and cultural settings.
Coursework includes studios, workshops, seminars, and community-based projects. The flexible curriculum enables students to hone their skills as arts practitioners while drawing connections to cultural and media studies, environmental and disability issues, health and policy arenas, and community and educational development.
IA graduates become independent artists, build careers in arts and cultural industries as curators and administrators, and develop arts-based projects in a range of employment sectors, including health, media, and education. They are also prepared for graduate education in the arts and humanities, cultural studies, and Master of Fine Arts fields.
How should a student prepare for this option? There are no formal prerequisites for Interdisciplinary Arts. Useful preparation for this option includes formal and informal training in visual, written, digital, and/or performing arts. Students will need strong skills in collaborative and creative problem-solving.
Interdisciplinary Arts (IA) Option Courses:
Key:** IA listing dependent on topic
A. IA Core Course
BIS 319 Interdisciplinary Arts
B. Art Studios and Art Workshops
BIS 207 Introduction to Creative Writing: Words, Stories, Dialogues
BIS 213 Art Techniques (Pending Approval)
BIS 310 Creative Writing: Poetry
BIS 311 Creative Writing: Prose
BIS 322 Topics in Performance Studies: Garbage as Art
BIS 374 Arts Workshop (Pending Approval)
BIS 450 Performance and Healing
BIS 483 Advanced Arts Workshop (Pending Approval)
BIS 484 Arts Learning in the Community (Pending Approval)
C. IA Option Courses:
BIS 203 History of InterArts
BIS 212 Engaging Performing Arts
BIS 207 Engaging Literary Arts
BIS 209 Engaging Visual Arts
BIS 208 Experimenting With the Arts
BIS 301 Narrative Forms
BIS 309 History of Dance in Europe and America
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community, and Everyday Life
BIS 322 **Topics in Performance Studies
BIS 341 **Topics in the Study of Culture
BIS 348 Cultural Psychology
BIS 366 Exploring American Culture: Americans at the Margins
BIS 367 Exploring American Culture: Race, Ethnicity, and Immigration
BIS 369 Women across Cultures
BIS 372 Comparative Arts in Eighteenth-Century Europe
BIS 373 The Cultural History of Rome
BIS 376 Circa 1500: Arts of West and East
BIS 378 Languages of Poetry
BIS 380 Art and its Context
BIS 382 Visual Arts of Biology
BIS 383 American Art and Architecture
BIS 384 Literature and Popular Genres
BIS 410 Qualitative Inquiry: Visual Ethnography
BIS 417 Paris:The City and its History
BIS 431 Sexual Politics and Cultures
BIS 434 Psychology and the Visual Arts
BIS 435 Interactive Learning: Theory and Practice
BIS 440 **Topics in Everyday Cultural and Social Life
BIS 450 Performance and Healing
BIS 457 Thinking and Decision Making
BIS 460 Topics in Critical Theory
BIS 470 Art, Politics, and Social Change
BIS 474 Topics in European Cultural History
BIS 476 Issues in Art History
BIS 478 Art Patronage and Markets
BIS 486 Studies in Women and Literature
8. Science, Technology, and Society
How have the fields of science and technology evolved over time, and what does the future hold? How should societies manage those fields to achieve just and sustainable communities? The Science, Technology and Society (STS) option within the Interdisciplinary Studies major prepares students to address these important questions through an integrated approach to science, technology, and their relationships to culture, history, and society.
STS students work with faculty members trained in disciplines ranging from biology and mathematics to political economy and philosophy. Housed in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, the degree option enables students to develop their skills in scientific and technological research along with their capacities for critical, creative, and ethical reflection. Students leave the program with the capacity to make informed decisions about the responsible use of science and technology -- as professionals and citizens.
Graduating STS students are prepared for careers with a wide variety of for-profit, not-for-profit, and governmental organizations that analyze, produce, and use scientific and technical knowledge. These careers include planning and administration, public and investor relations, and advocacy and communications, among other areas. STS students also pursue graduate and professional education in such fields as law, education, policy studies, and media and cultural studies.
Lower Division Prerequisites
1. Two quarters of a 100 or 200-level science sequence, which may be two courses from the same sequence or the first course from any two different sequences, as below:
* BIS 250 and 251 (How Things Work) are recommended to satisfy this requirement.
* Alternatively, students may take BES 180 and 200 (Introductory Biology) or their equivalents; BCUSP 142 and 152 (General Chemistry) or their equivalents; or BCUSP 143 and 144 (General Physics) or their equivalents.
* Other science courses may be accepted if they have a laboratory component and are designed for students expecting to major in the science field in which the sequence is offered.
2.BCUSP 123 (Functions, Models, and Quantitative Reasoning) or Pre-Calculus.
Science, Technology and Society (STS) Option Courses (All 3xx and 4xx courses are under development.)
Key:** STS listing dependent on topic.
A. STS Core Course
BIS 307 Science, Technology and Society
B. STS Methods Course
BES 301 Science Methods and Practice
BIS 315 Understanding Statistics
C. STS Courses. .
Mathematical Sciences
BIS 230 Mathematical Thinking for the Liberal Arts
BIS 231 Linear Algebra with Applications
BIS 232 Using, Understanding, and Visualizing Quantitative Data
BIS 329 Topics in Mathematics Across the Curriculum
BIS 350 Concept of Number
BIS 447 Topics in Quantitative Inquiry
BIS 480 **International Study Abroad
BIS 4xx Mathematical Systems
Natural Sciences
BES 220 Introduction to Biology III
BES 302 Environmental Problem Solving
BES 311 Environmental Chemistry
BES 315 Environmental Chemistry Lab
BES 312 Ecology
BES 316 Ecological Methods
BES 317 Soils Laboratory
BES 362 Introduction to Restoration Ecology
BES 397 Special Topics in Environmental Science
BES 3xx Evolution
BES 3xx Environmental Microbiology
BES 3xx Hydrogeology
BES 430 Air Pollution and Health
BES 460 Water Quality
BES 485 Conservation Biology
BES 486 Watershed Ecology & Management
BES 488 Wetland Ecology
BES 489 Pacific Northwest Ecosystems
BES 490 Pacific Northwest Plants
BES 4xx Advanced Topics in Environmental Science
BES 4xx Advanced Topics in Ecology and Conservation Biology
BES 4xx Field Application in GIS
BES 4xx Field Application in Environmental Science
BIS 240 Introduction to Sustainable Practices
BIS 242 Environmental Geography
BIS 250 How Things Work: Motion & Mechanics (if not used to meet prerequisite)
BIS 251 How Things Work: Electricity & Invention (if not used to meet prerequisite)
BIS 2xx Contemporary Issues in Physics
BIS 306 Marine Diversity and Conservation
BIS 358 Issues in Environmental Science
BIS 381 History of Life
BIS 386 Global Environmental Issues
BIS 388 Philosophy and Science of Quantum Mechanics
BIS 390 Ecology and the Environment
BIS 4xx Issues in Physical Systems
3. Science Communications
BES 3xx Science Writing
BES 4xx Representations of Science in the Media
BIS 202 Critical Reasoning
BIS 205 Technologies of Expression
BIS 204 Introduction to Journalism
BIS 317 Language, Society, and Cultural Knowledge
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community, and Everyday Life
BIS 322 **Topics in Performance Studies
BIS 360 Literature, Film and Consumer Culture
BIS 382 Visual Art of Biology
BIS 3xx Physics and Art
BIS 3xx Eco-arts
4. Culture, Politics, and Society
BIS 219 Politics of Sex Education
BIS 243 Introduction to Environmental Issues
BIS 281 Global Politics
BIS 302 Issues in Mathematics Across Cultures
BIS 303 History and Globalization
BIS 346 Topics in Environmental Policy
BIS 355 History of Science and Technology
BIS 356 Ethics and the Environment
BIS 359 Ethics and Society
BIS 386 Global Environmental Issues
BIS 391 Environmental History of the Pacific Northwest Bioregion
BIS 392 Water and Sustainability
BIS 394 Comparative Economic Development
BIS 3xx Topics in Sustainability
BIS 411 Biotechnology and Society
BIS 421 Science and Technology Policy
BIS 443 Educational Policy and the American Economy
BIS 458 Energy, the Environment, and Society
BIS 459 Conservation and Sustainable Development
BIS 482 Problems in Interdisciplinary Science
BIS 4xx Comparative Bioethics
BIS 4xx Environmental Policy
BIS 4xx or BBUS 4xx Environmental Management
Select courses outside of IAS may also be taken to fulfill the option course requirement. Please contact iasadvisers@uwb.edu for details.
9. Society, Ethics, and Human Behavior
Society, Ethics and Human Behavior (SEB) establishes the perspectives and develops the tools essential to an understanding of individual behavior, of human institutions, and of social policies. SEB studies combine an understanding of the ethical dimensions inherent in social and individual action along with analysis in multiple disciplines, including sociology, psychology, economics, philosophy, political science, and the law. The faculty is committed to providing students with experiences that include direct observation, involvement, and influence in and upon the agencies on the front-line of societal problems.
Many students who graduate with the SEB option may pursue careers or advanced study in counseling, education, human resources, law, social work, public policy, management, or planning. This option prepares students to assume more active and informed responsibilities within their communities, their families, and the organizations in which they work and participate.
How should a student prepare for this option? Fulfillment of the goals set by the option in Society, Ethics and Human Behavior requires rigorous qualitative (e.g., case studies) and quantitative study of human behavior. This course of study also requires strong skills in writing, speaking, and collaborative work. Useful preparation for this option includes a working knowledge of statistics as well as substantial coursework in psychology, sociology, communications and/or philosophy.
Society, Ethics and Human Behavior (SEB) Option Courses:
Key: **SEB listing dependent on topic.
A. SEB Core Courses
BIS 304 Institutions and Social Change
BIS 331 The Family in U.S. Society
BIS 333 The Individual and Society
BIS 359 Ethics and Society
B. Methods and Modes of Inquiry
BIS 312 Approaches to Social Research
BIS 315 Statistics
BIS 410 Topics in Qualitative Inquiry
C. Individual Behavior
BIS 220 Developmental Psychology
BIS 225 Applied Social Psychology
BIS 270 Abnormal Psychology
BIS 271 History of Psychology
BIS 316 Topics in Psychology
BIS 337 Risk and Resilience
BIS 343 Community Psychology
BIS 348 Cultural Psychology
BIS 434 Psychology and the Visual Arts
BIS 437 Narrative Psychology
BIS 438 Prevention and Promotion
BIS 457 Thinking and Decision Making
BIS 489 Projects in Community Psychology
D. Institutions
BIS 280 U.S. Political Processes
BIS 281 Global Politics
BIS 282 Globalization
BIS 313 Issues in Media Studies
BIS 321 U.S. Politics and Culture from 1865
BIS 323 U.S. Politics and Culture to 1865
BIS 327 History of U.S. Labor Institutions
BIS 330 Democratic Capitalism in the United States
BIS 338 Political Institutions and Processes
BIS 401 **Topics in Economic History and Analysis
BIS 433 Gender, Work and Family
BIS 436 Comparative Family Systems
BIS 441 Global Labor Markets
E. Social Policy and Social Justice
BIS 219 The Politics of Sex Education
BIS 224 Introduction to Feminist Studies
BIS 240 Sustainable Practices
BIS 243 Introduction to Environmental Issues
BIS 275 Social Problems
BIS 307 Science, Technology, and Society
BIS 325 Disability and Human Rights
BIS 328 Contemporary European Politics
BIS 335 Human Rights in America
BIS 346 Topics in Environmental Policy
BIS 353 Human Rights in Theory and Practice
BIS 392 Water and Sustainability
BIS 394 Comparative Economic Development
BIS 403 Washington DC Seminar on Human Rights
BIS 414 Topics in Human Rights
BIS 415 Public Policy and the Law
BIS 419 Urban Politics and Policy
BIS 420 Colonizing History in Sub-Saharan Africa
BIS 421 Technology Policy
BIS 425 Topics in United States Social and Political History
BIS 426 Comparative Urban Politics
BIS 432 Democracy in Asia
BIS 443 Educational Policy and the American Economy
BIS 444 **Issues in Comparative History
BIS 445 Meanings and Realities of Inequality
BIS 458 Energy, the Environment and Society
F. Culture and Society
BIS 204 Introduction to Journalism
BIS 205 Technologies of Expression
BIS 221 Gender and Sexuality
BIS 222 Travel and Cultural Difference
BIS 223 Introduction to Narrative Ethnography
BIS 242 Environmental Geography
BIS 250 How Things Work: Motions and Mechanics
BIS 251 How Things Work: Electricity and Invention
BIS 261 World History I
BIS 262 World History II
BIS 263 World History III
BIS 264 Africa on Film
BIS 302 Issues in Mathematics Across Cultures
BIS 314 **Topics in Geography
BIS 317 Language, Society and Cultural Knowledge
BIS 318 Performance, Identity, Community and Everyday Life
BIS 322 **Topics in Performance
BIS 329 **Topics in Mathematics Across the Curriculum
BIS 336 Native American Cultures: the Northwest Coast
BIS 339 **Issues in Global Cultural Studies
BIS 341 **Topics in the Study of Culture
BIS 360 Literature, Film and Consumer Culture
BIS 364 Public Memory and Dissent in American Culture
BIS 365 Exploring American Culture: Popular and Consumer Culture
BIS 367 Exploring American Culture: Race, Ethnicity and Immigration
BIS 368 Sex, Love, Romance
BIS 369 Women Across Cultures
BIS 382 The Visual Art of Biology
BIS 391 Environmental History of the Pacific Northwest
BIS 418 Masculinity, Homoeroticism and Queer Theory in America
BIS 431 Issues in Sexual Politics and Cultures
BIS 440 **Topics in Everyday Social and Cultural Life
BIS 450 Performance and Healing
BIS 455 Literature and Sexuality
BIS 463 U.S. Women's History
BIS 470 Art, Politics and Social Change
BIS 484 Arts Learning in the Community
G. Ethics, Philosophy and Social Theory
BIS 260 Introduction to World Religions
BIS 305 Issues in Social and Political Philosophy
BIS 308 Issues in Philosophy and Culture
BIS 354 Modern European Intellectual History
BIS 355 History of Science and Technology
BIS 356 Ethics and the Environment
BIS 357 Native American Religious and Philosophical Thought
BIS 362 Contemporary Political Ideas and Ideologies
BIS 411 Biotechnology and Society
BIS 412 Ideas in Political Economy
BIS 430 Social Theory and Practice
BIS 435 Interactive Learning Theory
BIS 452 Marx, Nietzsche, Freud
BIS 460 **Topics in Critical Theory
H. Area Studies
BIS 326 Twentieth Century Eastern Europe
BIS 400 Modern Japan
BIS 402 Modern China
BIS 404 Twentieth Century Russia
BIS 406 Modern France
BIS 408 Contemporary Britain
BIS 409 Modern Germany
BIS 480 **Study Abroad
Minor in Human Rights
See our web site
Minor in Policy Studies
The Policy Studies minor in the IAS program at the University of Washington, Bothell, is designed to provide students with the analytical foundations they will need to understand policy formation, implementation, and evaluation. It will serve as excellent preparation for graduate work in applied and academic research fields such as Policy Studies, Public Health, Urban Planning, and Political Science.
Students are advised to pursue minor course work early in their studies to ensure enough time to meet course requirements. Not all courses listed below are offered on a regular basis. Students must complete the following requirements for a minor in Policy Studies (30 credits):
Common Core (20 credits)
Microeconomics (prerequisite class to be completed at the 200 level.
BIS 324 International Political Economy
BIS 338 Political Institutions and Processes
BIS 315 Understanding Statistics
Methods (5 credits)
BIS 312 Approaches to Social Research OR BES 301 Science Methods and Practice
Elective (5 credits) from the following list of 400-level policy-oriented courses:
BIS 403/490 Washington DC Seminar on Human Rights
BIS 414 Topics in Human Rights
BIS 415 Public Policy and law
BIS 419 Urban Politics and Policy
BIS 421 Technology Policy
BIS 443 Educational Policy and the American Economy
BIS 458 Energy, Environment and Society
Other appropriate policy area courses by approval including BPOLST 492 (Topics in Policy Research)
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science prepares students to address environmental challenges facing the world today. Environmental Science students in each of the major's two degree pathways, Conservation and Restoration Ecology (CRE) and Earth System Science (ESS), develop the depth of scientific understanding, interdisciplinary perspectives, and creative problem-solving skills needed to design and bring about solutions to these problems at local, regional, and global scales.
The major combines focused study in the natural sciences with a broadly interdisciplinary curriculum, highlighting the ethical, historical, and policy dimensions of environmental issues. By participating in community-based projects ranging from wetlands restoration and conservation planning to analyses of regional air and water pollution, students gain practical experience and make a positive difference while they are still in school.
Career opportunities for Environmental Science students include management, planning, advocacy, communications, and policy-making related to natural science research, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Students are prepared for graduate education in a range of natural and environmental science fields.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
NOTE: IAS conducts a holistic review of all applications. A 2.5 minimum cumulative gpa is expected. Special circumstances may allow for admission of students with lower cumulative gpas (between 2.0 and 2.4).
Applicants applying with 80 or more credits:
1. 3 years high school math (2 years algebra) or Intermediate algebra in college. Minimum grade of 2.0 if taken in college.
2. Two years (high school) OR 10 quarter credits (college) of a single foreign language or through 102 with a passing grade.
3. English Composition (Five quarter credits), 10 credits preferred to include a writing and research course.
4. Quantitative/Symbolic Reasoning (Five quarter credits in Math or Logic). Does not apply to students who enrolled in college for the first time prior to Autumn Quarter, 1985.
5. 15 quarter credits in Natural World*
6. 15 quarter credits in Visual, Literary, and Performing Arts*
7. 15 quarter credits in Individuals and Societies*
Applicants applying with 45-79 credits: Same as above, but only 10 credits needed in each of the Areas of Knowledge (Natural World; Visual, Literary and Performing Arts; Individuals and Societies).
See UW Course Equivalency Guide for courses that will fulfill the Areas of Knowledge requirements at individual colleges.
PREREQUISITES FOR BOTH PATHWAYS:
One quarter of Calculus (BCUSP 124 or equivalent)
Three quarter General Chemistry sequence (BCUSP 142, 152, 162 or equivalent)
One introductory Earth System Science course (BIS 242 or Physical Geography or Oceanography or equivalent)
One introductory Environmental Studies course (BIS 240 or BIS 243 or equivalent)
Additional Prerequisite for the CRE Pathway:
Three quarter introductory Biology sequence (BES 180, 200, 220 or equivalent)
Additional Prerequisites for the ESS Pathway:
One quarter of introductory Biology (BES 180 or equivalent)
One quarter introductory Physics
A second quarter of introductory Physics (or a second quarter of Calculus (BCUSP 125 or equivalent)
Graduation Requirements
Students pursuing the Environmental Science major must complete the following program requirements, in addition to the general graduation requirements of the University, to be eligible for graduation with the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science:
NON-MATRICULATED STATUS: NO CREDITS TAKEN IN NON-MATRICULATED STATUS MAY COUNT TOWARD THE 78 MAJOR CREDITS.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR BOTH THE CRE AND ESS PATHWAYS (All 3xx and 4xx courses are under development):
BIS 300 Interdisciplinary Inquiry (5)
BIS 301 Science Methods & Practice (5)
BIS 315 Understanding Statistics (5)
BES 312 Ecology (5)
BES 303 Environmental Monitoring Practicum (3)
BES 3xx Introduction to GIS OR BES 439 Computer Modeling & Visualization in Environmental Science (5)
BES Capstone or approved Independent Research (10)
CONSERVATION AND RESTORATION ECOLOGY PATHWAY : EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE
Pathway Core Course Requirements
CREP: BES 316 Ecological Methods (5)
ESS: BES 311 Environmental Chemistry (5)
CREP: BES 362 Introduction to Restoration Ecology (5)
ESS: BES 315 Environmental Chemistry Lab (5)
CREP: BES 485 Conservation Biology (5)
CREP: BES 3xx Hydrogeology (5)
ESS: BES 311 Environ. Chemistry (5) OR
CREP: BES 3xx Hydrogeology (5)
Pathway Distribution Requirements (See below for courses that satisfy pathway requirements)
Environmental Science (5) : Environmental Science (5)
Methods and Practices (5) : Methods and Practices (10)
Society and Environment (5) : Society and Environment (5)
Environmental Policy and Management (5) : Environmental Policy and Management (5)
General Electives (12 credits)
NOTE: Within the credits taken in the IAS curriculum , students must complete 10 credits each in Visual, Literary and Performing Arts (VLPA); Individuals & Societies (I&S); and Natural World (NW).
The following courses satisfy distribution requirements in the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. An open box indicates the course satisfies the distribution requirement for that pathway. A box with an "X" indicates that it does not. Courses are 5 credits unless indicated otherwise in parentheses. Courses taken to fulfill pathway cores may not be used to fulfill distribution requirements.
Environmental Science Courses | CRE Pathway | ESS Pathway |
BIS 306 Marine Diversity and Conservation | ||
BIS 396 Nature and the Northwest | ||
BES 311 Environmental Chemistry | X | |
BES 362 Introduction to Restoration Ecology | X | |
BES 397 Special Topics in Environmental Science | ||
BES xxx Evolution | ||
BES 3xx Environmental Microbiology | ||
BES 3xx Hydrogeology | X | |
BES 430 Air Pollution and Health | ||
BES 460 Water Quality | ||
BES 485 Conservation Biology | X | |
BES 488 Wetland Ecology | ||
BES 4xx Advanced Topics in Environmental Science | ||
BES 489 Pacific Northwest Ecosystems | ||
BES 490 Pacific Northwest Plants |
Methods and Practices Courses | CRE Pathway | ESS Pathway |
BIS 232 Using, Understanding & Visualizing Quantitative Data | ||
BES 302 Environmental Problem Solving | ||
BES 315 Environmental Chemistry Lab | X | |
BES 316 Ecological Methods | X | |
BES 317 Soils Laboratory | ||
BES 3xx Science Writing | ||
BES 3xx Introduction to Geographic Information Systems | ||
BES 4xx Field Applications in Environmental Science | ||
BES 415 Advanced Environmental Measurements Laboratory | ||
BES 439 Computer Modeling & Visualization in Environmental Science | ||
BES 487 Field lab in Wildland Plants and Soils | ||
BES 4xx Field Applications in GIS |
Society and Environment Courses | CRE Pathway | ESS Pathway |
BIS 356 Ethics and the Environment | ||
BIS 358 Issues in Environmental Science | ||
BIS 386 Global Environmental Issues | ||
BIS 390 Ecology and the Environment | ||
BIS 391 Environmental History of the Pacific Northwest | ||
BIS 392 Water and Sustainability | ||
BIS 395 Future Washington | ||
BIS 3xx Topics in Environmental Studies | ||
BIS 3xx Topics in Sustainability | ||
BIS 411 Biotechnology and Society | ||
BIS 458 Energy, Environment & Society | ||
BIS 459 Conservation and Sustainable Development |
Environmental Policy & Management Courses | CRE Pathway | ESS Pathway |
BIS 346 Topics in Environmental Policy | ||
BIS 3xx Environmental Policy | ||
BES 486 Watershed Ecology and Management | ||
BIS 4xx Land Use Planning & Conservation | ||
BIS 4xx Environmental Management | ||
BIS 4xx or BBUS 4xx Environmental Management |