(HU) Humanities

HU 100. Introduction to Humanities. 3 Hours.

This course offers the student a chronological overview of cultural history from the first civilizations in Paleolithic times to the present The landmarks in the text--visual, literary, and musical key examples--keep the learner from getting lost in the huge survey of time by focusing study on very specific icons and very clear comparisons and contrasts. Key ideas in the history of ideas structure this survey of the human intellect and imagination. Particular sections beyond the west trace cross-cultural influences or emphasize stark contrasts in contemporaneous global cultures. In practice, the focus is on discovery and the sheer joy of learning about the creative process itself.

HU 102. Introduction to Film Studies. 3 Hours.

This course examines the history of feature films from the silent era to the digital age with a special emphasis on those films and directors that are critically acclaimed as being the best of their era. Along the way, students will become acquainted with film theory and begin to see film as an international media despite Hollywood's prominence. Students will hone skills that pertain to the study of all humanities: critical thinking, solid interpretation, clear writing, and engaging conversation. Our guide in selecting films will be the lists published each decade by the British Film Institute (BFI) and the National Society of Film Critics. Fair warning: some of these films are rated R and contain scenes of sex and violence.

HU 110. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Identity and Context. 3 Hours.

In this course, students focus on introspection to critically examine diversity, equity and inclusion. Through an examination of intrapersonal and interpersonal skills students demonstrate an understanding of implicit bias, microaggressions, and productive ways to create inclusive spaces. Likewise, students practice implementing strategies to remediate microaggressive behavior. Through reflection, class discussion and the review of communications exercises students build practical skills to facilitate discussion surrounding DEI.

HU 111. American Sign Language I. 3 Hours.

This course is an introduction to American Sign Language (ASL), designed to develop conversational signing skills at a beginning level.  The course allows for some practice time, working with others, and working with the videotape.

HU 112. American Sign Language II. 3 Hours.

This course, a continuation of HU 111, is designed for students to continue developing beginning conversational signing skills.  Additional techniques used by ASL users are introduced.  There is allowance for working with others, working with the videotape, and practice time. Prerequisite(s): HU 111.

HU 201. World Religions. 3 Hours.

This is an introduction to the religions of the world with particular emphasis on the religions of first world peoples (especially those of New England), Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In addition to gaining core knowledge about these traditions in the classroom, students will be given opportunities to encounter them through first-hand narratives, meetings with religious representatives invited to class, readings from sacred texts, and field trips to sacred sites and rituals.

HU 210. Comms Trends: Implications for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. 3 Hours.

In this course, students critically examine communications trends in social media, mass media, and interpersonal relations. Students examine social media to understand how information is framed, and shared by bots, individuals and organizations. Students also consider the historic role mass media played in producing a singular view of reality, and the new ways social media have allowed for multiple perspectives from the common person, allowing for diversity of perspectives, misinformation, elevating marginalized community concerns, the selective consumption of information, and difficulties in cross-ideological communication. Throughout the course, students practice inclusive forms of communication meant to support listening and understanding. Prerequisite(s): HU 110.

HU 250. Religion in Film: How movies make us think about our faiths. 3 Hours.

In our image-soaked world, the movie industry powerfully shapes our lives and the ways we think about God and participate in religious communities. This course will serve both as an introduction to the study of the religions of the world and as an introduction to thinking critically about movies. Using insights by film scholars we will develop our ability to understand better how filmmakers craft a film and communicate values explicitly and implicitly. By reading theologians and culture critics we will learn to participate thoughtfully in the dialogue between faith and film.

HU 299. Topic/. 1-3 Hour.

This course is intended to provide the opportunity to offer introductory courses in humanities that would not normally be a part of the Husson curriculum. As such the topics will depend upon the interests of students and faculty.

HU 301. The Greek View of Life: Summer in Greece. 3 Hours.

This is an introduction to a cross-cultural communication through the immersion and participation in the Greek culture. The classic Greek thought will be compared with contemporary Greek and Western thought on such issues as friendship, education, the view of women, identification of aesthetics and ethics, business labor and trades, the European Union, the state religion, law, the family, and other pertinent cultural aspects. Emphasis will be placed on the major events, institutions, ideas, and creative works that developed and continue to shape the western world.

HU 310. Org Leadership through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. 3 Hours.

In this course, students examine organizational structure and leadership to incorporate new ways of organizing and implementing change. Students also examine what types of institutional and leadership support is necessary to implement lasting change regarding equity, inclusion and diversity. Students demonstrate understanding of the ways well intended diversity plans can pose problems in achieving equity and inclusion. The course culminates in individual diversity statements, and a proposed diversity strategic plan for an institution of their choice. Prerequisite(s): HU 210.

HU 320. Modernism in Art, Music and Literature. 3 Hours.

This course introduces students to an interdisciplinary study of fine arts with a focus on the modern (and post-modern) world. Students will trace the development of modern sensibilities in major works of painting, sculpture, architecture, music and literature.

HU 411. Senior Capstone Experience. 3-6 Hours.

This course is to be taken by seniors completing the BS in Science and Humanities Degree, typically in their final semester of studies. The capstone will be an appropriate academic experience to their Individualize Program of Study, such as a senior thesis, a project with report, an internship with report, a portfolio, or an independent study. Capstone plans must be approved by the IPS student’s faculty advising committee before registration.