Courses

HDSR 239 PERSONS AND SYSTEMS (4 credits)
Designed for first-year students but open to those considering a major in HDSR. Examines individuals in relationship to society and how different disciplines analyze this relationship and propose solutions to the problems they identify. Students complete an experiential learning group project that involves interviewing staff and consumers of local agencies and businesses.

HDSR 359 SELF, SOCIETY AND SOCIAL THOUGHT
(4 credits)
Open to majors and prospective majors only. Explores various theoretical perspectives concerning the nature of individuals, and social and cultural systems. A primary goal is to clarify, evaluate and improve the theoretical frameworks that students use when they attempt to understand social reality. Incorporates instruction on methods needed to complete the field study requirement for the HDSR major.

HDSR 363 FIELD STUDY (0–6 credits)
Provides a first-hand opportunity to integrate theory gained in the classroom with insights into and experience in the workings of an organization. Helps students become more conscious of the relationship of social roles, institutional dynamics and professional development. Students complete 200 hours of work at a site of their choosing, in consultation with the HDSR Program Coordinator. Prerequisites: HDSR 239 and 359.

HDSR 364 FIELD STUDY SEMINAR (3 credits)
Designed to help students integrate the practical experience of the field study with theoretical models, particularly those studied in the HDSR core courses. Through class discussion and individual presentations, students share thoughts, ideas, research and experiences. Provides a supportive framework for writing the field study paper. Prerequisite: HDSR 363.

HDSR 482 SPECIAL TOPICS (3 credits)
Selected topics determined by the instructor for upper-level study.

HDSR 483 TEACHING ASSISTANTS (1-3 credits)

HDSR 484 FORD/KNIGHT RESEARCH PROJECT (1-4 credits)
Collaborative research with faculty funded by the Ford/Knight Program.

HDSR 485 INDEPENDENT STUDY (1-3 credits)
Investigation of a specific topic conceived and planned by the student in consultation with a faculty supervisor.

HDSR 488 SENIOR CAPSTONE EXPERIENCE (3 credits)
Students prepare a public presentation on a social issue. In addition to this "Problem Analysis," seniors complete a reflective essay reviewing their work in the HDSR Program. Seminar members participate in critical evaluations of the presentations, in activities preparing for job searches and graduate school applications, and provide leadership for the HDSR program.