INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSES (IDSC)

Cross-College Program
Tonia Bock, Associate Vice President for Accreditation, Assessment, and Curriculum


Course Number	Title	Credits
FYEX 001	College Success Orientation	0
Description of course College Success Orientation :	No description is available.
FYEX 100	Foundation for College Success	1
Description of course Foundation for College Success :	Foundations for college success is a first-year experience course designed to provide students with knowledge and skills that will help them succeed at St. Thomas. This one credit course covers a range of topics, including: campus engagement, well-being, academic success, financial literacy, career and vocation, sustainability, global and intercultural competence, and spirituality.
FYEX 120	First Year: Leading & Serving	0 OR 2
Description of course First Year: Leading & Serving :	The purpose of this course is to integrate scholars into the life and culture of the University of St. Thomas and prepare them with the foundations for academic and professional success. The course will focus on leadership competencies such as written and oral communication, team building, career and professional development, financial literacy and information literacy. In addition, the course will introduce students to the key principles of Social Justice Leadership.
FYEX 150	Common Good Theme Path	0
Description of course Common Good Theme Path :	The Common Good Learning Community Theme Path provides students the opportunity to explore our university charism, all for the common good, through courses in at least two disciplines, co-curricular activities related to the common good, and discussions. Successful completion of this path and two “Common Good Learning Community” themed courses will satisfy the First-Year Experience Learning Community requirement. Prerequisite: being currently enrolled in or having completed one of the Common Good Learning Community courses.
FYEX 200	Changmking for the Common Good	2
Description of course Changmking for the Common Good :	This course introduces students to ways in which individuals all over the world address a range of environmental, social, political, and economic issues, and their attempts to create and sustain positive social impact. The course promotes critical thinking about existing changemaking initiatives, and students are introduced to important concepts that are central to the field of changemaking and social innovation. Students will learn from a variety of change agents who are working to address today’s most pressing social challenges on global, national, local and personal levels. Through course materials and activities, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be change agents in their own communities – all for the common good. This course is cross-listed with IDSC 200. Students cannot receive credit for both IDSC 200 and FYEX 200.

Interdisciplinary Studies Undergraduate Courses

Interdisciplinary Studies Undergraduate Courses
Course Number	Title	Credits
HONR 480	Honors Seminar	2
Description of course Honors Seminar :	These interdisciplinary seminars are intended to develop integrating insights through an analysis of topics chosen from different disciplines. Often they are taught by two faculty members or by a visiting lecturer who holds one of the endowed chairs at the university.
HONR 481	Honors Seminar	2
Description of course Honors Seminar :	These interdisciplinary seminars are intended to develop integrating insights through an analysis of topics chosen from different disciplines. Often they are taught by two faculty members or by a visiting lecturer who holds one of the endowed chairs at the university.

Interdisciplinary Studies Undergraduate Courses

Interdisciplinary Studies Undergraduate Courses
Course Number	Title	Credits
IDSC 110	Foundations Science Success	1
Description of course Foundations Science Success :	Foundations for science success is for first-year students who plan to pursue a major in STEM fields. This course is designed to nurture students’ identity as a scientist, use meta-cognitive strategies to grow in self-efficacy, and hone academic and career interests in STEM. To accomplish these outcomes, students will explore a variety of non-healthcare-based STEM careers, research, and internship opportunities. They will also develop in-depth academic plans and practice career development skills. Prerequisites: FYEX 100, and a freshman, or permission of instructor
IDSC 120	First Year: Leading & Serving	0 OR 2
Description of course First Year: Leading & Serving :	The purpose of this course is to integrate scholars into the life and culture of the University of St. Thomas and prepare them with the foundations for academic and professional success. The course will focus on leadership competencies such as written and oral communication, team building, career and professional development, financial literacy and information literacy. In addition, the course will introduce students to the key principles of Social Justice Leadership.
IDSC 121	First Year: Leading & Serving	0 TO 2
Description of course First Year: Leading & Serving :	The purpose of this course is to integrate scholars into the life and culture of the University of St. Thomas and prepare them with the foundations for academic and professional success. The course will focus on leadership competencies such as written and oral communication, team building, conflict management, career and professional development and digital literacy. In addition, the course will introduce students to the key principles of Catholic Social Teaching, Circle of Praxis, and Transformational Leadership. Students must complete this course in each semester fo their first year. Restricted to A.A. Liberal Arts student registration only.
IDSC 150	Natural Wrld-Mississippi Model	4
Description of course Natural Wrld-Mississippi Model :	Minneapolis and St. Paul owe their existence and location to the Mississippi River. The "Mighty Mississippi" provides the focal point for an integrated exploration of the scientific disciplines of astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. The past and present human impact on the water and land is also explored, including environmental and life style sustainability issues. Consisting of lectures, discussions, labs, and field trips, this course is designed for non-science majors and fulfills the core-area in natural science in the Natural Science and Mathematical and Quantitative Reasoning requirement in the core curriculum. This course also addresses the science content and skills required by the state of Minnesota for elementary and middle school teachers and models an inquiry-based pedagogy.
IDSC 180	Engl as a Second Lang I	4
Description of course Engl as a Second Lang I :	Special and individual attention to speaking, writing, reading, listening and study skills. For students whose native language is not English. Offered in fall semester.
IDSC 181	Engl as a Second Lang II	4
Description of course Engl as a Second Lang II :	Continuation of 180. Offered in spring semester. Prerequisite: 180 or permission of instructor
IDSC 198	Natural Science W/Lab	4
Description of course Natural Science W/Lab :	No description is available.
IDSC 200	Changmking for the Common Good	2
Description of course Changmking for the Common Good :	This course introduces students to ways in which individuals all over the world address a range of environmental, social, political, and economic issues, and their attempts to create and sustain positive social impact. The course promotes critical thinking about existing changemaking initiatives, and students are introduced to important concepts that are central to the field of changemaking and social innovation. Students will learn from a variety of change agents who are working to address today’s most pressing social challenges on global, national, local and personal levels. Through course materials and activities, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be change agents in their own communities – all for the common good. This course is cross-listed with FYEX 200. Students cannot receive credit for both IDSC 200 and FYEX 200.
IDSC 243	Individual Study	2 OR 4
Description of course Individual Study :	No description is available.
IDSC 260	Enviro&Agric:Sustain food syst	4
Description of course Enviro&Agric:Sustain food syst :	Explore sustainability first-hand through the lens of the U.S. food system. This interdisciplinary, field-based program analyzes the environment, economic, political, social, and cultural issues that define modern farming. A three-day farm stay is included in the program. Students will use critical frameworks to examine a variety of farms, farming communities, and research and food production facilities, and to understand the complex connections between the environment and agriculture.
IDSC 269	Research	2 OR 4
Description of course Research :	No description is available.
IDSC 284	Intro to Teach Religion	1 TO 2
Description of course Intro to Teach Religion :	The course includes a six-hour seminar including at least three basic skills related to the act of teaching as well as a year of teaching in a local parish religious education program once a week. The teaching placement is done through consultation with each student and cooperating teachers who have a sound understanding of the life and ministry of teacher education in the church. Specific seminar content will enable students to do the following: define the term learners; explain the relationship of objectives to overall goals of religious education; define the term "strategy" and develop workable plans for teaching within a typical church/school setting. Prerequisite: Acceptance into St. John Vianney Seminary
IDSC 287	German Cultural Heritage	4
Description of course German Cultural Heritage :	An historic survey of German cultural development from the beginnings in antiquity through the present. Attention is given to significant events in the history of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein and the development of historic events into the living German culture of today. Events and significant achievements in the areas of politics, music, literature, science, philosophy and theology are examined. The course is usually offered online with no classroom meetings.
IDSC 291	The Anatomy of Violence	4
Description of course The Anatomy of Violence :	The purpose of this course is to increase the knowledge and understanding of cultural, racial and interpersonal violence and develop a commitment to promoting a violence-free society. Emphasis is on exploration of the extent,causes and effects of violence and strategies for intervention on the micro and macro levels. Specific areas of study include domestic/partner abuse, child abuse/neglect, peer/date violence, elder abuse, sexual assault/sexual harassment, cultural violence, racism and other systemic oppression.
IDSC 294	Leadership Theory and Practice	2
Description of course Leadership Theory and Practice :	Students in this course examine historical and contemporary leadership theories and learn to reflect on their leadership experiences through the lenses of those theories. This course will build a foundation for lifelong learning practices for leadership development. The course includes the study of leadership and the application of leadership theories, concepts, and skills. For Ciresi Walburn Leadership Fellows Only.
IDSC 295	Topics	2
Description of course Topics :	The subject matter of these courses will vary from year to year, but will not duplicate existing courses. Descriptions of these courses are available in the Searchable Class Schedule on Murphy Online, View Searchable Class Schedule
IDSC 296	Topics	2
Description of course Topics :	The subject matter of these courses will vary from year to year, but will not duplicate existing courses. Descriptions of these courses are available in the Searchable Class Schedule on Murphy Online, View Searchable Class Schedule
IDSC 297	Topics	2 OR 4
Description of course Topics :	The subject matter of these courses will vary from year to year, but will not duplicate existing courses. Descriptions of these courses are available in the Searchable Class Schedule on Murphy Online, View Searchable Class Schedule
IDSC 298	Topics	4
Description of course Topics :	The subject matter of these courses will vary from year to year, but will not duplicate existing courses. Descriptions of these courses are available in the Searchable Class Schedule on Murphy Online, View Searchable Class Schedule
IDSC 310	Washington Semester	16
Description of course Washington Semester :	The University of St. Thomas is affiliated with the American University's Washington Semester Program, Washington, D.C. Students selected to participate in the program have the option of studying one of the following: American Politics; Economic Policy; Education Policy and Special Education; Foreign Policy; International Business and Trade; International Environment and Development; Journalism; Justice; Peace and Conflict Resolution; Public Law; Transforming Communities; Visual and Performing Arts. The Washington Semester involves seminars, research and internships drawing on governmental and private organization resources in the Washington, D.C. area. Nominations to participate are made by the university, with final acceptance decided by American University.
IDSC 320	Sem:Human Side of Medicine	2
Description of course Sem:Human Side of Medicine :	This course will concentrate on learning about how patients, their families, and professionals who care for them experience illness; how stories patients tell become the basis for diagnosis and therapeutic action; what it's like to be a physician; and the therapeutic relationship. Didactic presentations, interactive discussion using stories from patients', students' and the instructor's experience, and related literature will provide the content of the course. Others, including faculty members, professional colleagues, and patients will help provide material for the course work and participate in the discussions. Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior or senior student interested in a career in medicine or related health profession
IDSC 365	Materials Sci & Engr Practicum	0
Description of course Materials Sci & Engr Practicum :	Participants in the Interdisciplinary Minor in Materials Science and Engineering complete a Materials-based practicum. This practicum will give them real-world experience with issues relevant to Materials Science and Engineering. Students are encouraged to be proactive in selecting their practicum experience, as well as to explore and consider options in both industry and academic research. A variety of options and opportunities is available through the Career Center. Students are also encouraged to discuss possibilities with Materials-related faculty.
IDSC 389	Research	2 OR 4
Description of course Research :	No description is available.
IDSC 393	Individual Study	2 OR 4
Description of course Individual Study :	No description is available.
IDSC 395	Intro Pastoral Ministry	1 TO 2
Description of course Intro Pastoral Ministry :	This is a semester-long pastoral education program that provides for personal involvement and the pra ctical exercise of pastoral ministry. Designed to implement the church's documents and the U.S. Bishops' Program for Priestly Formation, emphasis is placed on the future pastoral ministry of the student. Each student is placed in one of three broad areas of ministry: family crises; chemical dependency counseling; and death, dying and grief arenas. Training and ongoing supervision by qualified professionals is provided. Prerequisite: Acceptance into St. John Vianney Seminary
IDSC 455	Reading for Social Change	4
Description of course Reading for Social Change :	No description is available.
IDSC 456	Writing for Social Change	4
Description of course Writing for Social Change :	No description is available.
IDSC 457	Writing/Social Change: Seminar	4
Description of course Writing/Social Change: Seminar :	No description is available.
IDSC 458	Internship	4
Description of course Internship :	No description is available.
IDSC 462	ESTC: Adapt Ecosystem Mgmt	4
Description of course ESTC: Adapt Ecosystem Mgmt :	In Adaptive Ecosystem Management students gain a practical hands-on understanding of the basic ecological and physical processes that underlie environmental degradation. They develop a basic understanding of how to set up large and small scale ecological monitoring projects, and how to evaluate environmental decision making on appropriate time and spatial scales.
IDSC 463	ESTC: Soc Dim of Envr Change	4
Description of course ESTC: Soc Dim of Envr Change :	In Social Dimensions of Environmental Change students explore how worldviews impact a society's underlying value system regarding the human relationship with the natural world. The course situates local environmental challenges in the context of global sustainability, and encourages students to reflect about the meaning of civic responsibility in local and global contexts.
IDSC 464	ESTC: Field Methods	4
Description of course ESTC: Field Methods :	In the Field Methods course students have an opportunity to work with scientists and community members to conduct research in a methodologically rigorous manner. Students design and carryout either a social science or natural science based field project.
IDSC 465	ESTC: Environmental Internship	4
Description of course ESTC: Environmental Internship :	In their internships students interact with one of the most active networks of citizens' organizations in the country. Practitioners in the Twin Cities work on a wide range of environmental issues, and Minnesota's environmental policies are among the most progressive in the nation. Internships get students directly involved in this dynamic work.
IDSC 466	City Arts:Reading Seminar	4
Description of course City Arts:Reading Seminar :	City Arts focuses on the arts, popular culture and social change. Seminar themes include arts, ideology and public opinion formation, the politics of arts philanthropy, and approaches to community building and organizing. Students also complete a small group study project on topics chosen by the students.
IDSC 467	City Arts:Field Seminar	4
Description of course City Arts:Field Seminar :	Students meet with a wide variety of local artists, community organizers and arts advocates to dialogue on program themes. The group also attends plays, films and visual installations as a way to connect the theories studied with actual practice in the field.
IDSC 468	City Arts:Internship(HECUA)	4
Description of course City Arts:Internship(HECUA) :	Each student works in a half-time internship, with a wide variety of placements available, including arts organizations, artistic groups, and community organizations using the arts in programs and service.
IDSC 469	City Arts: Intern Seminar	4
Description of course City Arts: Intern Seminar :	Students reflect on their internship experience with other students in the program and connect their rea l-life experience with the learning taking place in the reading and field seminars.
IDSC 471	Must Seminar: Research	4
Description of course Must Seminar: Research :	MUST focuses on issues of poverty and inequality and ways to address these critical issues. Students explore key institutions that impact urban poverty and inequality, namely the economy, education and welfare. The role of urban sprawl, segregation and racial, class and gender discrimination are also analyzed. Students examine an array of strategies to rebuild the city more equitably.
IDSC 472	Must Seminar: Field Studies	4
Description of course Must Seminar: Field Studies :	Students meet with a wide variety of community leaders, educators, urban planners, corporate executives and others as a way to connect the theories studied with actual practice in the field.
IDSC 473	Must: Urban Studies Intern	4
Description of course Must: Urban Studies Intern :	Each student works in a half-time internship, with a wide variety of placements available, including public, private and community non-profit organizations working on urban issues.
IDSC 474	Must: Urban Studies Seminar	4
Description of course Must: Urban Studies Seminar :	Students reflect on their internship experience with other students in the program and connect their rea l-life experience with the learning taking place in the reading and field seminars.
IDSC 476	Experiential Learning	1 TO 4
Description of course Experiential Learning :	No description is available.
IDSC 481	Seminar in Intl Studies	4
Description of course Seminar in Intl Studies :	This seminar will explore the lives and works of pioneering women composers and playwrights. We will study the social context of these women's lives, the way in which they overcame barriers to their creativity, and the way they changed music and theater through their contributions. Study will focus on the creative works of women in western European theatrical and musical traditions. The seminar will be topic oriented; rather than studying the composers and playwrights in strictly chronological order, we will approach their work in terms of topics they addressed, including questions of spirituality, romantic love, and politics. Prerequisite: Senior standing or permission from the instructor
IDSC 489	Topics	4
Description of course Topics :	The subject matter of these courses will vary from year to year, but will not duplicate existing courses. Descriptions of these courses are available in the Searchable Class Schedule on Murphy Online, View Searchable Class Schedule
IDSC 490	Topics	2 OR 4
Description of course Topics :	The subject matter of these courses will vary from year to year, but will not duplicate existing courses. Descriptions of these courses are available in the Searchable Class Schedule on Murphy Online, View Searchable Class Schedule
IDSC 491	Research	2 OR 4
Description of course Research :	No description is available.
IDSC 495	Individual Study	2 OR 4
Description of course Individual Study :	No description is available.