Course Descriptions-SGCS

School of Graduate and Continuing Studies

Courses

Nursing

• NUR 206 - Health Assessment

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  3 hours
  This course will build on the knowledge attained in the foundational science courses with emphasis on the well individual. Content includes assessment of major body systems of the adult. Time will be spent perfecting assessment skills. The course will culminate with the student performing a complete history and physical. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the nursing program. Corequisite(s): NUR 207 , NUR 226 . CS
• NUR 207 - Fundamentals of Nursing

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  6 hours
  This course will build on the preparatory knowledge attained in the prerequisite science courses and Introduction to Professional Nursing. The emphasis of this course will be on the basic care of clients with acute or chronic illness. Foundational nursing knowledge and interventions are introduced within the interactive online environment, practiced in the skills lab, and utilized in the clinical setting. The nursing process and its application to a plan of care will be initiated. Prerequisite(s): NUR 202  and all prerequisite courses. Corequisite(s): NUR 180 , NUR 206 , NUR 227 , and NUR 388 . CS
• NUR 226 - Pharmacology for Nurses I

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  2 hours
  This course provides a foundation of pharmacological concepts and principles for the beginning nursing student. Topics to be discussed include principles of drug actions and interactions, drug categories and the prototype of each, and drug considerations through the life span. The nursing process is utilized as students learn to assess, implement, and evaluate pharmacotherapeutics. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the nursing program. Corequisite(s): NUR 206 , NUR 207 . CS
• NUR 227 - Introduction to Pharmacology

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  3 hours
  This course will provide an overview of general principles of Pharmacology for nurses. Common drug categories and classifications will be presented to provide a foundation for further detailed study in subsequent nursing courses. Prerequisite(s): NUR 202  and all prerequisite courses. Corequisite(s): NUR 180 , NUR 206 , NUR 207 , and NUR 388 . CS
• NUR 280 - Nursing Seminar II

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  1 hour
  This course focuses on the synthesis of knowledge and skills gained from Adult Health Nursing I, Mental Health Nursing, Transcultural Nursing, and Nursing Research. Emphasis is placed on the use of critical thinking skills as students participate in a variety of active learning experiences. Prerequisite(s): NUR 180 , NUR 206 , NUR 207 , NUR 227 , and NUR 388 . Corequisite(s): NUR 342 , NUR 349 , NUR 445 , and NUR 466 . CS
• NUR 327 - Pharmacology for Nurses II

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  2 hours
  This course continues to provide a foundation of pharmacological concepts and principles for the beginning nursing student. Topics to be discussed include principles of drug actions and interactions, drug categories and the prototype of each, and drug considerations through the life span. The nursing process is utilized as students learn to assess, implement, and evaluate pharmacotherapeutics. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 1 courses. Corequisite(s): NUR 349 . CS
• NUR 335 - Community Health and Population-Focused Care

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  3 hours
  This course discusses the expansion of the nurse’s role into the local, state, and national levels. Health promotion, health prevention, and health maintenance are assessed and evaluated in relation to sociopolitical forces and the health care delivery system. The effects of the environment on health are analyzed, and modification of risk factors in aggregates is explored, along with principles of epidemiology. Prerequisite(s): NUR 378 , NUR 380 , NUR 415 , and NUR 439 . Corequisite(s): NUR 449 , NUR 456 , NUR 478 , and NUR 480 . CS
• NUR 342 - Mental Health Nursing

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  4 hours
  This course presents the theoretical and clinical foundation of ethical and professional nursing care to individuals and small groups experiencing acute and chronic behavioral problems. The needs of individuals with mental illness as they impact the family and the community will be discussed. Students will apply the principles of therapeutic communication and the nursing process in this diverse setting. Selected therapeutic groups will be observed and group/individual assignments completed. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 1 courses. CS
• NUR 349 - Adult Health Nursing I

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  6 hours
  The theoretical foundation of holistic nursing care for adults with acute and chronic illnesses and the application of that theory are the focus of this medical-surgical course. Clinical judgment and skills are developed by refining the nursing analysis of the patient’s history and symptom severity, establishing rationales and priorities for nursing and collaborative interventions, and evaluating the patient response to various treatment modalities. A variety of clinical areas and simulated clinical case scenarios provide the students with a diverse patient population in order to highlight evidence-based interventions. Students are expected to exhibit ethical, moral, spiritual, and professional behaviors. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 1 courses. CS
• NUR 378 - Childbearing Family Health

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  4 hours
  The theoretical foundation of nursing care for the childbearing family during pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal periods is the focus of this course. Women’s health issues and genetic considerations are addressed as they relate to the childbearing family. Community resources appropriate for the childbearing family are explored. Nursing research, cultural, sociopolitical, and legal aspects applicable to the childbearing family are studied. ANA and AWHONN standards are addressed. Students will spend time in the clinical setting observing and providing care for the childbearing family. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 2 courses. CS
• NUR 380 - Nursing Seminar III

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  1 hour
  This course focuses on the synthesis of knowledge and skills gained from Adult Health Nursing II, Childbearing Family Health Nursing, and Child Health Nursing. Emphasis is placed on the use of critical thinking skills as students participate in a variety of active learning experiences. Prerequisite(s): NUR 280 , NUR 342 , NUR 349 , NUR 445 , and NUR 466 . Corequisite(s): NUR 378 , NUR 415 , and NUR 439 . CS
• NUR 388 - Gerontology and Palliative Care

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  2 hours
  This course focuses on the provision of holistic nursing care to the older adult. Students will explore the role of the professional nurse in the assessment of the older adults’ physical, psychological, and spiritual needs. Theories of aging, as they relate to the promotion of health and wellness, chronic illness, palliative and end-of-life care will also be discussed. Additional content will include the legal, ethical, social, and cultural concerns of aging. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the nursing program. CS
• NUR 415 - Child Health Nursing

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  4 hours
  Provides a theoretical and clinical practice foundation for nursing care of children and adolescents. An emphasis is placed on evidence- based practice and family-centered atraumatic nursing care for the child. Health and wellness as related to the developmental levels is explored. Students will apply the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in the care of both acute and chronically ill children and adolescents. Clinical reasoning is emphasized in this course as well as patient safety and quality improvement. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 2 courses. CS
• NUR 439 - Adult Health Nursing II

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  6 hours
  The theoretical foundation of holistic nursing care for adults with acute and chronic illnesses and the application of that theory are the focus of this medical-surgical course. Clinical judgment and skills continue to improve by refining the nursing analysis of the patient’s history and symptom severity, establishing rationales and priorities for nursing and collaborative interventions, and evaluating the patient response to various treatment modalities. A variety of clinical areas and simulated clinical case scenarios provide the students with a diverse patient population in order to highlight evidence-based interventions. Students are expected to exhibit ethical, moral, spiritual, and professional behaviors. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 2 courses. CS
• NUR 445 - Transcultural Nursing

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  3 hours
  This course focuses on the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health in diverse global communities. Students will discuss health promotion, health protection, health prevention, and health maintenance that affect human populations. The health care access of various target populations will be assessed and evaluated as it relates to sociopolitical factors. Learners will be able to recognize the necessity of culturally appropriate nursing care and how to incorporate the role and function of the family across the life span. Prerequisite(s): NUR 180 , NUR 206 , NUR 207 , NUR 227 , and NUR 388 . Corequisite(s): NUR 280 , NUR 342 , NUR 349 , NUR 466 . CS
• NUR 449 - Adult Health Nursing III

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  4 hours
  The theoretical foundation of holistic nursing care for adults with acute and complex multi-system dysfunction and the application of that theory are the focus of this advanced medical-surgical course. Clinical judgment and skills are synthesized by further refining the nursing analysis of the patient’s history and symptom severity, establishing rationales and priorities for nursing and collaborative interventions, and evaluating the patient response to various treatment modalities. A variety of simulated clinical case scenarios expose the students to patients experiencing end-of-life symptom severity, co-morbidities, and complications in order to highlight evidence-based interventions. Students are expected to exhibit ethical, moral, spiritual, and professional behaviors. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 3 courses. Corequisite(s): NUR 478 . CS
• NUR 450 - The Global Community

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  2 hours
  This course presents the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health in diverse global communities. Students will discuss health promotion, health prevention, and health maintenance of the global communities. Populations are assessed and evaluated in relation to health care access, sociopolitical, and socioeconomic, forces. The effects of the global environment on health are analyzed and modification of risk factors in aggregates is explored, along with principles of epidemiology. Students will apply theory during a practicum/project experience. Prerequisite(s): NUR 335 . CS
• NUR 456 - Leadership and Trends in Nursing

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  3 hours
  This course will cover the concepts of management: delegation, scheduling, budgeting, conflict management and interprofessional communication. The perception of appropriate ‘following’ behaviors as preparation for management responsibilities is examined. The understanding of a nurse’s role as patient advocate in ethical dilemmas will be investigated. Current healthcare issues focused on the profession of nursing will be analyzed. This course will also prepare the student to assume a beginning nursing leadership and management role with a focus on interactions with health care team members. Theories, organizational behavior theories, and leadership styles that are relevant to the practice of nursing management are analyzed. The application of leadership skills enhances students’ skills in maintaining best practices and standards of care. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 2 courses. CS
• NUR 466 - Nursing Research

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  3 hours
  This course focuses on the research process. Students will discuss the ethical, moral, legal, and professional concerns pertinent to the research process. Emphasis is on the importance of life-long learning as a foundation for evidence-based nursing practice and research utilization. Students will critique selected research articles. Each student will identify a research problem and develop an individual research proposal. Prerequisite(s): Completion of Level 1 courses. CS
• NUR 478 - Synthesis and Capstone in Nursing

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  4 hours
  This capstone course emphasizes professional role development and the ability to provide comprehensive care for a patient group in final preparation for entry into professional nursing practice. The student is placed with an experienced RN Preceptor for clinical, and also participates in simulations and skills demonstrations in the Virtual Learning Center. Prerequisite(s): NUR 378 , NUR 380 , NUR 415 , and NUR 439 . Corequisite(s): NUR 335 , NUR 449 , NUR 456 , and NUR 480 . CS
• NUR 480 - Nursing Seminar IV

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  1 hour
  This course focuses on the synthesis of knowledge and skills gained from Adult Health Nursing III, Community Health and Population Focused Care, Leadership/Trends in Nursing, and Synthesis & Capstone in Nursing. Emphasis is placed on the use of critical thinking skills as they participate in a variety of active learning experiences. Prerequisite(s): NUR 378 , NUR 380 , NUR 415 , and NUR 439 . Corequisite(s): NUR 335 , NUR 449 , NUR 456 , and NUR 478 . CS

Pastoral Leadership

• PAST 600 - Theology of Ministry

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  3 hours
  The purpose of this course is to understand the significance of theologically formed patterns of ministry and pastoral leadership, and to develop theologically reflected models for ministry. Special attention will be given to the issues of ecclesiology as they relate to theological leadership. GR
• PAST 610 - Christian Leadership

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  3 hours
  This course is a focused learning conversation among friends exploring the spiritual foundations, the primary influences, the relational context, current literature and authorities of the theory of leadership, and the priority principles and best practices of effective Christ-like leadership. Class members will apply this holistic view of leadership to the context of ministry in which they currently serve or may serve in the future. GR
• PAST 620 - Life Management and Personal Renewal

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  3 hours
  This course explores the significance of spiritual development and personal renewal in the life of a leader, with attention to practice and implementation as well as strategies for modeling and teaching healthy patterns as leaders. GR
• PAST 630 - Pastoral Leader as Prophet

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  3 hours
  This course explores the central content of the Christian message, especially as a theological vision of soteriology/holiness and the role of the pastoral leader as the primary theologian for a local congregation. GR
• PAST 640 - Preaching and Worship as Pastoral Leadership

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  3 hours
  This course will consider the critical roles of the pastoral leader as primary preacher and worship leader. Attention will focus on the critical interaction between theology in practice and confession and how it is formed in practices of worship. GR
• PAST 650 - The Teaching Church

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  3 hours
  This course is a comprehensive approach to developing the local church as a teaching community. Attention will focus on assessment and planning of effective and holistic teaching processes. GR
• PAST 660 - Pastoral Leader as Priest

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  3 hours
  This course examines the critical role of the pastoral leader in defining the shape, or patterns, of the Christian life. This includes consideration of the proper biblical understanding of the Christian life, the Pastor as model/mentor, and the church as a community of formation. GR
• PAST 670 - The Church as a Community of Formation

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  3 hours
  This course explores the dynamics of the church as a community which forms by the patterns and practices it cultivates and encourages. Attention is given to identifying the characteristics of Christian life and character that can and should be encouraged and formed by the life of the community. GR
• PAST 680 - The Church in the World

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  3 hours
  This course focuses on the intersection of the church (as a Kingdom community) and the world. Examination of the competing value systems and formation of an approach to developing a church that effects transformation in its community and world. GR
• PAST 690 - Pastoral Leader as King

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  3 hours
  This course will consider the role of the pastoral leader as an organizational leader. Attention will be given to Kingdom values which should be embodied in the organizational structures of the local church and development of an approach to effecting those values in the local church. GR
• PAST 700 - Visionary Leadership

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  3 hours
  The task of pastoral leadership to effectively communicate and perpetuate a vision of Kingdom community is the focus of this course. Study includes identification of core values and definition of mission, as well as strategies for effectively casting vision for a local church. GR
• PAST 710 - Development of a Ministry Plan

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  3 hours
  This course is an application project integrating the coursework and ideas of the program of study into a specific and comprehensive plan for congregational leadership and development. GR

Physical Education

• PED 500 - First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

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  3 hours
  The course consists of teaching and demonstrating vital and practical applications and necessary steps in administering emergency first aid care to an injured person, including the issues related to bleeding, shock, splinting, bandaging, and CPR methodology. Appropriate certification may be achieved upon satisfactory completion of this course. GR

Political Science

• PSC 223 - American Government

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  3 hours
  A study of the structure and functions of the federal government in the United States.
  GER: Social Science CS

Practical Ministries

• PRM 572 - Urban Mission Practicum

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  3 hours
  This is a hybrid course where online content and on‐site experience are combined in a 5‐day practicum conducted at the Urban Mission Center in St Louis area and Benton Park West neighborhood in partnership with the Salvation Army.  Benton Park West has a good blend of urban life (density, diversity, and disparity) to submerge into for practicing theory and principles learned in Urban Studies. The course will look at neighborhoods, areas of marginalization, areas of conflict and identified sacred spaces. Time will be given for discussion and study on the Urban Millennium and how it impacts the region, city and neighborhood and how the church has been impacted. While present in the community, students will learn and practice the 6 postures for creating and practicing missional community (Thin Places) and will spend time daily in the urban garden for spiritual reflection. CS

Psychology

• PSY 200 - Lifespan Development

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  3 hours
  This course gives an overview of theory and research on human development in physical, cognitive, and social-emotional domains from conception to death. This course is not intended for psychology majors.
  GER: Social Science CS
• PSY 204 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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  3 hours
  This course helps learners understand the factors that influence human behavior in organizational settings. Emphasis is placed on scientific analysis of individual processes, group processes, and organizational structure and design. Topics addressed include research methodology, attitude determinants, communication, performance determinants and evaluations, decision-making, and leadership.
  GER: Social Science CS

Sociology

• SOC 120 - Introduction to Sociology

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  3 hours
  This course aims to provide students an overview of the patterns and dynamics of social life. The work and topics that engage sociologists are investigated. Attention is given to the historical and theoretical development of sociology, common research methods, social behavior, social inequality, social institutions, and social change.
  GER: Social Science CS
• SOC 280 - Ethnic Relations

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  3 hours
  This course provides an introduction and analysis of minority groups within the larger American society. Emphasis is given to the interaction patterns between minority and majority groups. Students are encouraged to critically consider how a Christian should respond to issues of diversity and oppression.
  GER: Intercultural Understanding CS

Special Education

• SPED 601 - Characteristics of Students with Disabilities

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  3 hours
  Candidates will examine characteristics of individuals identified with disabilities, including levels of severity and their influence on development, behavior and learning. This course will address state and federal regulations; issues and trends in schools including, health care needs, sensory processing, motor development, and self-care skills; school/home/employment partnerships and transition procedures. Students will identify assessment and evaluation requirements and understand the process of writing Individualized Education Programs and transition plans. Prerequisite(s): EDUC 749 . GR
• SPED 611 - Methods of Intervention for Students with Disabilities

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  4 hours
  This course provides teacher candidates the opportunity to master information about methods of interventions for students with disabilities. Teacher candidates will demonstrate mastery for adapting general education curriculum based on individual learner needs. An emphasis is placed on examining the academic, social and vocational needs of individuals and their transitional needs from pre-school to a post-secondary level. Teacher candidates will create lesson plans based on the goals and objectives of students with disabilities. A focus of this course is to adapt materials and incorporate technology into all aspects of instruction for students with disabilities. This course includes 20 hours of clinical experience. Prerequisite(s): SPED 601 . GR
• SPED 616 - Using Assessment to Inform Instruction

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  3 hours
  Accurate assessment and diagnosis guide the curriculum and instruction in the classroom for students with special needs. Using assessment to inform instruction enables the special education teacher to effectively identify student strengths and weaknesses, target developing skills, and foster academic growth. Candidates engage in the examination of the major principles of assessment; demonstrate understanding of the legal aspects of the evaluation of students with special needs; as well as analyze, select, and interpret appropriate assessments for students with special needs. Candidates also develop understanding of norm-referenced and curriculum based assessments and how such tests can be used in establishing student goals and benchmarks. This course includes 10 hours of clinical experience. Prerequisite(s): SPED 611 . GR

Teacher Leader Education

• TLED 605 - The E.L.L. Student in the K-12 Mainstream: Accommodating through Awareness

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  3 hours
  Whether instituted by federal, state, or local mandates, the inclusion of E.L.L. (English Language Learner) students into the U.S. K~12 mainstream is a reality within our schools.  This course is designed to provide the K~12 mainstream teacher with two major skill sets:  1) the knowledge and tools necessary to accommodate the E.L.L. student’s English-language-learning needs inside and outside of the classroom; and 2) the teacher-leadership skills necessary to function in the capacity as both an educator and leader within the community, the family, the school, the classroom, and the profession.

  The tools are practical; include components that allow for feedback regarding the on-going assessment of the tools themselves, and are utilized by the teachers, the student, and by the student’s family who are viewed as an extension of the classroom-learning environment.  This course reaches beyond general TESL strategies by providing accommodations so the learner can attain English while studying in the content areas at school with supportive measures at home.  Accommodation through awareness of cultural differences and similarities is the foundational theme upon which the tools are built.  The workings of this topic are applied universally to the daily encounters the mainstream teacher, and the E.L.L. students and the family have with the student’s English-language-learning.  This explorative theme will be implemented also into the areas of assessment, instructional principles and practices, and resources as they apply to accommodating E.L.L. students in the K~12 mainstream.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR

• TLED 738 - Leadership in Education

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  3 hours
  Teacher leadership is not an event, but a process which encompasses studying, practicing, and developing leadership skills and competencies such as the development of knowledge, abilities, and dispositions necessary for effective and ethical leadership that are essential for school improvement efforts.  The teacher leadership candidates examine the principles and techniques required of teacher leaders.  In addition, this course explores the expansion of the teacher role from the classroom to the school community.  Teacher leaders focus on research and best practices in leadership, the study of leadership frameworks and models of shared governance, professional accountability, and leading collaborative teams in setting results-oriented goals. This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice. Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR
• TLED 771 - Data-Focused Assessment and Evaluation

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  3 hours
  Collecting, analyzing, and using data for creating change is a major component of the informational age.  The teacher leadership candidates learn the difference between a data-driven and data-focused approach to assessment and evaluation.  The course explores how to match the types of data with specific need for information.  Teacher leaders learn to analyze and interpret data around school culture, working and learning settings, and school climate.  The course examines how data-focused assessments build support for student achievement and school improvement.  The teacher leadership candidates engage in the multiple techniques for gathering and analyzing data, evaluating the validity, and the methods for collaborative review.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR
• TLED 772 - Understanding Diverse Student Populations

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  3 hours
  The learning environment continues to become diversified due to changes in student’s neurological wiring, mobility, family configuration, immigration, and socio-economic status.  The teacher leadership candidates examine current knowledge about, and resources available to make modifications for K-12 students in the regular classroom who have exceptionalities arising from disabilities, giftedness, and differences in culture and/or language.  As a result, teacher leaders learn how to build school culture that focuses on student outcomes.  This course also provides opportunities for analysis of everyday situations and the impact of instructional models and practices on the teaching and learning processes.  This analysis includes a focus on gender, ethnicity, race, religion, socio-economic status, and parents/family.  In addition, teacher leaders learn to utilize the Social and Emotional Learning Standards to improve the learning environment.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum in schools with a diverse population. GR
• TLED 773 - Foundations in Reading

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  3 hours
  The TLED candidate will have a thorough understanding and framework concerning the foundational theories, process, and methodologies impacting reading instruction required for today’s diverse K-12 student population.  To understand current reading theory and the historical foundation, the candidate will explore the increasing complexities of current thought within the discipline.  The impact of technology as well as multicultural factors, will be explored in depth throughout the course.  The candidate will reflect upon personal beliefs about reading and reading instruction in conjunction with the examination of current research and related introspection.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR
• TLED 783 - Differentiated Instruction: Assessment and Instructional Strategies

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  3 hours
  Differentiated instruction is a philosophical approach to teaching and learning which embraces the belief that all students can learn through curriculum, instruction, and assessment designed to maximize the potential of each individual.  Participants learn to create an environment which meets the needs of an increasingly diverse population of students with varied abilities while addressing challenging state standards at the same time.  This course will focus on the meaning of differentiation, ways to effectively implement it in the classroom through strategies that work, and means by which to lead and manage a differentiated classroom to fit the individual needs of each student.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR
• TLED 795 - Building Collaborative Community Partnerships

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  3 hours
  Schools and their leaders cannot create effective and lasting change without the support of the community.  It is imperative that all levels of leadership in the school build collaborative relations with all of the constituents of the school community.  The teacher leadership candidates examine the theory, research, and best practices relating to school, family, and community partnerships.  This course also explores the different types of partnerships, challenges to developing school-based partnership programs, the components of effective partnership programs that enhance student performance and success, and how to evaluate their effectiveness to achieve the over-arching goal of school improvement.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR
• TLED 805 - Professional Development for Continuous Improvement of Teaching and Learning

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  3 hours
  Teacher leaders evaluate effective models of professional development and apply them to the teaching and learning needs identified in their schools.  They understand the needs of new teachers and facilitate induction and mentoring programs to enhance skills to improve student outcomes.  They learn to observe instruction and provide constructive feedback through teacher evaluation models and training; they learn effective coaching and mentoring strategies; and they learn to design and provide professional development for their colleagues.  This course includes a 10-hour practicum experience during which theory is applied to practice.  Candidates must complete their practicum requirements in schools with a diverse population. GR

Theology

• THE 300 - Faith and Contemporary Issues

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  3 hours
  This course is designed to expand understanding of the content of Christian faith, its historical development, and its expression in ethical living. Learners explore major religious traditions in Christian history, including their own, compare the major ecumenical and Protestant confessions of faith, and examine Biblical foundations of Christian doctrine and lifestyle. This course is required of all students and, in part, meets the general education requirement for Christianity.
  GER: Christianity CS
• THE 310 - Christianity & Culture

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  3 hours
  Since its earliest days, Christianity has been impacted by the surrounding culture.  As a result, while its basic tenets have remained unchanged, the practice of the Christian faith has changed over the centuries.  The Christianity and Culture course will examine Christianity’s foundational beliefs and practices, and the impact today’s culture has on those practices.  Attention will be given to the Church, Christian worship, and the interpretation of Scripture, focusing on relevant scriptural texts that guide the lifestyle choices of today’s Christians.
  GER: Christianity CS
• THEO 600 - Wesleyan Theology

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  4 hours
  This course is a study of the theological tradition inaugurated by John Wesley.  The course focuses its attention on antecedents of the Wesleyan tradition, the theology of Wesley himself, the development of the tradition since Wesley’s time, and/or ideas of specific prominent thinkers that help elucidate Wesleyan doctrine. This course may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 606 - Introduction to Theological Research

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  3 hours
  After a broad sketch of the different forms of modern research, this course will focus on the types of research most common in theological and biblical studies. Guidance will be offered on preparing to write a thesis and how to formulate a proper thesis proposal. It will also introduce the student to a more effective use of the library, an understanding of the wide range of biblical and theological databases and how to use them, effective electronic searching, and the services offered by the library staff. Lastly, the course will direct the student to the proper format of a term paper or thesis using Turabian or SBL standards. GR
• THEO 607 - Theology of Ministry

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  3 hours
  Students in this course learn the significance of theologically informed patterns of ministry and pastoral leadership, and they develop their own models for ministry that are intelligent and theologically informed. Special attention is given to the issues of ecclesiology as they relate to theological leadership. GR
• THEO 608 - World Religions

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  3 hours
  This course is a theological and historical exploration of Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, Taoism, Judaism, Islam, and the relationship of Christianity to those religions. Course goals include 1) to set forth the essential characteristics and practices of the world’s great religions; 2) to disengage the essential differences between Christianity and the other world religions; and 3) to examine the Christian theological appraisal of other world religions. Thus, the course will enable the students to gain a deeper understanding of Christianity by listening to and observing other religious traditions as well as appraising the different major religious traditions of the world. GR
• THEO 611 - Topics in Christian Theology

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  3 hours
  This course is a concentrated study of the work of one or more theologians, or of a particular theological issue or movement, or the theology of a particular era. This course requires significant research and writing. This course may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 612 - Ethics in Practice

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  3 hours
  In this course, students will become acquainted with the various aspects of ethics, including the foundations and parameters of Christian ethics. This knowledge will then be applied to a number of notable issues and situations that call for moral deliberation. Some attention will be given to national and global issues and to the ethical practice of ministry. GR
• THEO 613 - Systematic Theology

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  3 hours
  This course is a systematic, analytical examination of Christian theology. GR
• THEO 614 - 20th Century and Contemporary Theologies

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  3 hours
  This course will survey Christian theological ethics in the twentieth century, predominantly Protestant ethics. The thought of key figures will be examined and discussed, noting the influences that shaped each thinker. Moreover, the relationship between theology and ethics will be analyzed throughout the course. GR
• THEO 616 - History of Christianity I

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  3 hours
  This course is a survey of the history of Christianity during the Patristic and Medieval periods. The development of the church (e.g., theologically, politically, organizationally, liturgically) from a minor, and sometimes persecuted religion in the Roman Empire to the dominant religion within Medieval Europe will be discussed. Special attention will also be given to developments within the Eastern branches of Christianity. Focus will also be given to the theological developments within Christianity, leading to the eve of the Reformation, and the intersection of Christianity with Judaism and Islam. This course will emphasize research and writing. GR
• THEO 617 - History of Christianity II

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  3 hours
  This course examines the development of the Christian tradition from the time of the Reformation to the present, with special attention to the confessional division of the western Christian tradition during the Reformation, and the responses that post-Reformation Christian traditions make to the secularization of Western culture. Another major theme will be the study of the pluralistic and global context of Christianity with attention to the growth of Christianity outside of the West. A special emphasis will be the revival traditions of Christianity. This course will emphasize research and writing. GR
• THEO 621 - Early Church Fathers

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  3 hours
  The Church Fathers are often cited in modern theological writing, but they are often poorly understood. This course will examine the thought of prominent Christian authors through the first five centuries of the Christian church. Special attention will be given to the issues of creation, the Trinity, Christology, salvation, and ecclesiology. This course will feature an active engagement with and critical assessment of the primary texts. GR
• THEO 622 - Islamic Studies

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  3 hours
  This course engages in the study of Islam as a textual tradition and practiced faith inscribed in history and particular cultural contexts. Surveys the ideals and practices of Islam across its history. Provides an introduction to the origin and history of the Islamic movement. Included are the ritual (worship), theological, philosophical, mystical, ethical and political dimensions of Islam with special attention given to Islam’s primary message and its implementation in the lives of Muslims. Special focus given to Muhammad, the Qur’an as revelation, the contemporary practice of the Islamic faith, Islam and power, contemporary manifestations of Islam, the rise of puritanical Islam and Islam’s relationship to Christianity and the West. GR
• THEO 623 - Systematic Theology I

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  3 hours
  This course is an introduction to the clear and coherent presentation of the faith of the Christian church. The course will discuss the classical Christian doctrines of the Christian faith including Revelation, God, Creation, Jesus Christ, Atonement, Salvation, Holy Spirit, Church, Sacrament, and Last Things. While concerned to present the classical thinking of the church, especially in its Protestant heritage, the course will also clearly note and sympathetically explain the distinctives of the Arminian/Wesleyan /Holiness tradition. In addition, this course will give attention to such methodological issues as the norms of theology, thinking theologically about the contemporary church and society, and the interconnectedness of the various doctrines and teachings of the Christian church. GR
• THEO 624 - Systematic Theology II

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  3 hours
  This course is a continuation of THEO 623 , Systematic Theology I. GR
• THEO 625 - Philosophy of Religion

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  3 hours
  This course is an analysis of the religious concepts and tenets that historically have been debated by philosophers. GR
• THEO 626 - The Early Councils and Their Creeds

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  3 hours
  The early Christian creeds and the first seven ecumenical councils played an important role in the historical development of Christian theology. This course will critically examine the key political and theological issues at stake during each council. The course will also pay significant attention to the ramifications and acceptance of each council and creed. Special attention will also be paid smaller regional councils, as well as primary text research. GR
• THEO 627 - Philosophy for Theology

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  3 hours
  This course is a study of philosophical topics, perspectives, and approaches that are particularly helpful to the study of theology. Particular attention will be given to issues such as the autonomy of reason, and theological understandings of the role of philosophy (and culture). This is not an introduction to philosophy or theology, which the student should have already taken. A previous course in the philosophy of religion would also be helpful, but it is not required. This course may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 629 - Developing and Reproducing a Leadership Culture

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  3 hours
  This course will explore the value systems and behaviors for developing a reproducing leadership culture within a specific ministry context. Exploring Ephesians 4:11 and Alan Hirsch’s APEST theory, students will locate pastoral leadership within the field of micro-multiplication of disciples and leaders within specified areas of ministry. By the end of the course, each student will have constructed a practically applicable leadership pipeline to be utilized in a current/projected ministry. In addition, each student will have identified apprentices within the current ministry setting for contextual implementation. GR
• THEO 631 - Ecclesiology

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  3 hours
  This course is an inquiry into the meaning and nature of the church. Special attention will be given to the biblical metaphors and classical theological models with a view toward critically evaluating contemporary ecclesiastical models. GR
• THEO 632 - Eschatology

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  3 hours
  This course is an inquiry into the doctrine of eschatology and the eschatological nature of all of Christian theology. Attention will be given to the biblical texts which inform Christian eschatology. We will also investigate theologies and secular historical systems which reveal strong Christian eschatological influences. Topics explored will include death, resurrection, immortality, millennialism, heaven, hell and the second coming. GR
• THEO 645 - Old Testament Theology

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  3 hours
  This course includes an examination of the Old Testament as Scripture of the Christian Church in order to hear and understand the biblical testimony to God and his revelatory and reconciling work in the world. The history of the discipline is discussed, including various methods of doing biblical theology, such as: themes and ideas, history of salvation, literary approaches, cultural and sociological methods, and the Bible as canon. The course also contains an in-depth study of the major theological themes of the Old Testament, including covenant, grace, faithful response to God, sin and accountability, holiness, and hope for the future, as well as a reflective analysis of the theological role of the Scripture for today amid various and shifting cultural concerns. This course requires significant research and writing and may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 646 - New Testament Theology

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  3 hours
  This course includes an investigation of major themes of New Testament theology, the distinctive contributions of the biblical authors, and the issue of unity and diversity within the canon of the New Testament. This course requires significant research and writing and may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 648 - Missional Theology: Leadership and Praxis

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  3 hours
  The objective of this course would be to offer a theologically informed missional hermeneutic derived from the meta-narrative of Scripture, the eschatological promises of Jesus, and the call of the ecclesia into the world, the field on which God’s redemptive purposes are being established. Once introduced to this missional hermeneutic, students would then be challenged to integrate this hermeneutic into a philosophy of missional leadership and articulate the possibilities within their current and particular contexts. GR
• THEO 651 - Historic Christian Thought

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  3 hours
  This course is a study of significant movements, epochs, and theologians selected from the formative periods of the life of the Church prior to the modern age. Among the possible subjects of specific study are the early Church, Eastern Orthodoxy, the Middle Ages, the Reformation, the Enlightenment, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, James Arminius, and Jonathan Edwards. This course may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 657 - Topics in History of Christianity

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  3 hours
  This course is an examination of movements, persons, and ideas that have shaped the religious history and thought of Christianity. This course may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 664 - Augustine

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  3 hours
  This course introduces the life of St. Augustine of Hippo and explores his foundational role in the development of the theology of the Christian church in the West. This course will give attention to his location in a transitional historical context and the ways Augustine reflects and influences the movement from the Roman to Medieval world. Attention will be given to considering implications for doing theology today. This course requires significant research and writing, and it may be repeated with a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 665 - Theology in the Era of the Reformation

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  3 hours
  Theological development in the Reformation period, giving attention to historical and theological context, will be the focus of this course. Reading of primary source material will be emphasized. Study will center on key representative thinkers and the theological systems they both reflect and helped to shape. Attention will be given to the major streams of thought and development that led into and emerged from the Reformation. This course emphasizes research and writing, and it may be repeated under a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 672 - History, Missions and Polity of the Church of the Nazarene

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  3 hours
  Three related topics are covered during this course: (1) a selective historical study of the world regions of the Church of the Nazarene, with primary emphasis upon the United States regions where independent holiness churches emerged and later united and organized to preach the message of entire sanctification as articulated by John Wesley and the American holiness movement with the vision to create a global holiness church. We also review the issues that shaped the church’s identity and the organizational structures that made global ministry possible; (2) a review of the World Mission program and a discussion of internationalization with a focus on the organizational changes that facilitated rapid growth in world areas during the end of the twentieth century with the resulting implications of becoming a global community; and (3) a concentrated examination of the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene, with focus on the government of the Church at its various administrative levels with the goal to help the student think through important issues relative to membership and ministry as well as to convey the practical rules and regulations that govern community life. Students study primary documents. GR
• THEO 674 - Pastoral Care and Counseling

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  3 hours
  This course will explore ministry with adolescents and their families. The lenses of social sciences, context, biblical concepts, and theological insight, will be utilized to determine the faithful action required for Kingdom focus. GR
• THEO 682 - Wesleyan-Holiness Theology

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  3 hours
  This course is an overview of Wesleyan theology and its roots in the thought of John Wesley. Special attention will be given to the development of distinctive doctrines within the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. GR
• THEO 693 - Contemporary Issues in Theology

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  3 hours
  This course explores recent trends and current issues in Christian Theology, examining them in light of their faithfulness to Scripture, Christian tradition and Christian practice. Attention will be given to their inner theological coherence and their impact on related Christian doctrines. A reading and research course which will give special emphasis to the critical examination of original documents. May be repeated under a different subtitle. GR
• THEO 695 - Tutorial

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  1 hour
  For each theology course in which the student is enrolled, there will be an associated tutorial.  The tutorial consists of personalized guidance from the teacher on the professional aspects of the subject, including such items as a deeper and more extensive reading of the academic literature in the area, detailed guidance for writing, and detailed critique of the research paper.  The purpose is to develop professional academic competence in theology.  This course may be repeated.  It is restricted to students in the MACT program. GR
• THEO 696 - Thesis Research

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  3 hours
  This course includes guided research on the student’s master’s thesis.  This is taken before the student enrolls in THEO 699 - Thesis .  The grade will be pass/fail.  It can be repeated.  Only open to MACT students. GR
• THEO 699 - Thesis

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  3 hours
  This requires the completion of a 50-75-page thesis, the subject of which must be approved by the student’s adviser and the Director of Graduate Studies for the School of Theology and Christian Ministry. This option demonstrates (1) the learner’s ability to design, execute, and report on independent research, and (2) the learner’s creative thinking, critical reflection, and writing ability. It culminates with the learner’s defense of the thesis. The School of Theology provides a detailed guide to the rules and regulations for the thesis, which is available from the Program Specialist. GR

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