2020-2022 Undergraduate and Graduate Bulletin (without addenda) 
    
    May 14, 2024  
2020-2022 Undergraduate and Graduate Bulletin (without addenda) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


A Brief Guide to Course Descriptions

Each program described in this catalog contains detailed descriptions of the courses offered within the program.

The first line gives the official course number for which students must register and the official course title. The letters indicate the discipline of the course and the first number of the official course numbers indicates the level of the course. The levels are as follows:

  • 1XXX - Freshman Level
  • 2XXX - Sophomore Level
  • 3XXX - Junior Level
  • 4XXX - Senior Level
  • 5XXX to 9XXX - Graduate level

Typically the last number of the course number indicates the number of credits. The breakdown of periods of the course is also listed.

When selecting a course for registration, the section of the course may include the following notations:

  • “LEC” - lecture section
  • “RCT” or “RC” - recitation section
  • “LAB” or “LB” - lab section

Additionally, any other letter or digit listed in the section will further identify the section and being liked to another section of the class with the same letter and/or digit combination. Further information on sections is available from academic advisers during registration periods.

The paragraph description briefly indicates the contents and coverage of the course. A detailed course syllabus may be available by request from the office of the offering department.

“Prerequisites” are courses (or their equivalents) that must be completed before registering for the described course. “Co-requisites” are courses taken concurrently with the described course.

The notation “Also listed…” indicates that the course is also given under the number shown. This means that two or more departments or programs sponsor the described course and that students may register under either number, usually the one representing the student’s major program. Classes are jointly delivered.

 

Science and Technology

  
  • STS-UY 2244W Magic, Medicine, and Science

    4 Credits
    This course looks at the metaphysical and epistemological origins of three systems of thought - the organic, the magical, and the mechanical - and considers the extent to which modern science can be seen as arising from their synthesis. Topics include Presocratics, Plato, Aristotle, Plotinus, the Hermetic Corpus, Ficino’s naturalistic magic, Pico’s supernatural magic, Paracelsus and the ontic theory of disease, Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, Descartes, the Cambridge Platonists, and Newton.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2254 Evolution

    4 Credits Credits
    This course discusses the development of the theory of evolution based on the amassed evidence from the geological and biological sciences over the past 200 years. Darwin’s idea that natural selection was the driving force behind evolution is considered in detail.  Early rival theories to Darwin’s ideas are discussed as part of the process leading to the modern theory. The integration into the theory of genetics and molecular biology has led to a much deeper understanding of how organisms are related. The role of chance factors is also considered. Application of evolution theory to problems in economic biology and modern medicine and epidemiology wilI also be discussed. Finally, current controversies regarding Intelligent Design is addressed and put into a historical context.

    Prerequisite(s): EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4  
    Note: Satisfies a HuSS elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2264W Addressing Public Policy Issues in the Sciences, Engineering and Medicine

    4 Credits
    This course explores public-policy issues on critical and often controversial questions in science (e.g., cap-and-trade, global warming, LEDs as lighting sources, biofuels, spectrum allocation), medicine (e.g., embryonic stemcell research, national health care, genetic therapy, workplace risks of nanotechnology), and technology (e.g., off-shore drilling, biotechnology, clean coal, nuclear energy, “smart” power). Students will select areas in which to specialize and will be required to submit a white paper on one of these major issues. The report will be based on library research and face-to-face interviews with experts in the field. As students draft sections of their white papers, they will submit them for class discussion and they will meet periodically with the instructor to review their progress.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2274 Space and Spacetime

    4 Credits Credits
    What is the nature of space? Is it an independently existing substance, or does it merely consist of the relations between physical objects? Can motion be described simply in terms of the relational properties of objects, or must people always define motion with respect to an absolute motionless substratum? Does the existence of left-handed gloves entail the existence of absolute space? This course considers these and other questions about the nature of space and time as they appear in the writings of philosophers and scientists, including Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Newton, Leibniz, Berkeley, Kant, Poincaré and Einstein. 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2284 Introduction to FSTEM

    4 Credits
    This course will introduce feminist theory as a foundational methodology for critically investigating of the fields of STEM. Feminist theory is not a political ideology nor an analytic framework limited to “women’s issues,” but an important way of asking questions about how hierarchies of power including gender, race, class, and disability, relate to the funding, research directions, and accessibility of science, technology, and engineering. While thinking through how STEM conforms to and creates social systems of difference, students in this course will learn how to apply feminist theory to contemporary case studies, examining issues of practice, ethics, social justice, and inequality in STEM.

    Prerequisite(s): EXPOS-UA 1 
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2294 Quantum Mechanics and Information

    4 Credits Credits
    Quantum mechanics is today the best-confirmed theory of particle dynamics. The theory is not only the basis for all digital technologies, but also the theoretical foundation for the best-confirmed theories of matter (quantum field theories). However, since its inception, quantum mechanics has been beset with conceptual problems. No consensus exists on how to interpret it: What would the world be like if it were true? This course develops the mathematical formalism of the theory and explores several proposals about how to interpret it. Other topics include conceptual issues of quantum teleportation, quantum computing and quantum cryptography. 
     

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2314 It’s About Time

    4 Credits
    From looking at our watch and noting the change from day to night and counting the days, months and years, time seems so mundane that we take it for granted and usually think little more about it. But what is time and why do we measure it so obsessively and with such precision? This course will concern itself with all aspects of time, from the evolution of calendars (including our own) to precision timepieces and our own internal clocks. And finally, the nature of time itself and its relationship to space and other aspects of our universe will be discussed. This course will draw on knowledge from history, anthropology, psychology, technology, astronomy and physics to gain an understanding of this very basic “dimension”.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2324 From Heat Engines to Black Holes

    4 Credits
    What is the nature of heat? How does it relate to atoms, black holes, information and a demon in a box full of gas molecules? This course answers these questions by developing the history of thermodynamics. That history begins with early 18th-century caloric theories of heat, 19th-century analyses of steam engines, the kinetic theory of gases, the statistical approach to mechanics, atomic theories of matter, the concept of entropy, early 20th-century concepts of information and, finally, current applications to black holes (as well as Maxwell and his famous demon). The course considers theoretical descriptions of the phenomena and the technologies derived from them.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of first year writing requirements
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2324W From Heat Engines to Black Holes

    4 Credits
    What is the nature of heat? How does it relate to atoms, black holes, information and a demon in a box full of gas molecules? This course answers these questions by developing the history of thermodynamics. That history begins with early 18th-century caloric theories of heat, 19th-century analyses of steam engines, the kinetic theory of gases, the statistical approach to mechanics, atomic theories of matter, the concept of entropy, early 20th-century concepts of information and, finally, current applications to black holes (as well as Maxwell and his famous demon). The course considers theoretical descriptions of the phenomena and the technologies derived from them.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of first year writing requirements
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2334 The Invention of Race

    4 Credits
    This course traces the history of science as it shapes race into a divisive standard for regulating and altering the shape of the population. Topics include the Enlightenment and the emergence of race as a science, eugenics and its lasting effects (actuarial science, mortgage policies, sentencing and paroling), and the fractured relationship between race and medicine.

    Prerequisite(s): EXPOS-UA 1 
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2364 History of Aviation and Aviation Technology

    4 Credits Credits
    In little more than 100 years, aviation has passed from a ground-hugging flight of less than a minute to high-altitude, supersonic flights that cross continents and oceans. This course surveys the history of aviation and the technological innovations that led to this crucial modern technology. This course also discusses the physics of flight, how increased understanding of aerodynamic principles led to successive aircraft improvements, and the development of new materials and control systems. Although military research drove many technological innovations, this course focuses on the economics and development of commercial aviation, which has changed the world. The course also looks at ultramodern trends in aircraft design and control, including unmanned cruise missiles and aircraft, and new commercial-aircraft designs and production techniques. 
     

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2374 The Ship


    Ships, the largest human-made moving objects, have played a pivotal role in trade and warfare throughout history. This course covers the history, development and technology of ships from ancient times to the present. The course discusses aspects of the atmosphere and seas as they relate to ship design and use. Technological advances in hull design, materials, sails and power also will be discussed. The use of ships in trade, human transportation, warfare, fishing, piracy and global exploration are covered, along with the satellite industries of shipbuilding and port support. The course also looks at the manning of ships, the social and military organization, the life of mariners, the development of navigation and its technologies in an historical context, and submarine evolution and technologies. 
     

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2524 Computer Ethics

    4 Credits Credits


    Using a case study approach, this course explores the issues of professional and technological ethics especially as it pertains to networked computers in a global setting.  The course will begin with the appropriate ethical codes of the professional societies, including the code of ethics for the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) but also codes in other areas such as finance and medicine. The mandates and expectations of the codes will be interpreted from varying perspectives and will be applied concretely to the specifics of the cases under consideration.

    Ethical issues will be approached in a manner similar to that of engineering problems and students will be expected to show a step-by-step process for the resolution of actual and potential ethical conflict. The technique of “line drawing” will be used to exhibit the alternatives and to help justify the ultimate decision made.  In addition to video lectures Power Point charts, and notes the course teaching techniques will employ social media (“Google +”) to create a class community, “NYU Classes” to present texts and case studies, built-in assessment tools (e.g. “Ivanhoe”), and inter-active role-playing games to permit student dialogue and debate on assigned topics. These online tools do not demand excessive bandwidth and can be used in both synchronous and asynchronous settings.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4

  
  • STS-UY 2534 Computers and Social Change

    4 Credits
    This course examines the social, legal, economic, and policy contexts surrounding worldwide computing. Issues to be addressed include the economic impacts of computer and software development in the global context; the impacts of computers on family and social structure, work, education, and leisure; the digital divide in the US and internationally; questions of privacy and safety; the changing landscape of international and national laws surrounding computing; and others. Course readings, online discussions and a research project are required.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4  
    Note: Satisfies a HuSS elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 2554 Science and Pseudoscience

    4 Credits Credits
    This survey of popular pseudoscientific claims emphasizes issues in the philosophy of science, including demarcation, evidential warrant, scientific progress, science and public policy, and fallacies of reasoning. Topics include UFO sightings and alien abductions, the Nemesis theory of dinosaur extinctions, astrology, creationism, psychic phenomena, theories of intelligence, alternative medicines, global warming and cold fusion. The course emphasizes student input to determine the topics covered. 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2604 Ethics and Engineering

    4 Credits
    This course examines issues relating to engineering practice and applied technology. We will study foundations for moral decision making such as professional codes and ethical theories such as Kantianism and utilitarianism. These ethical tools will be applied to a range of case studies. We will also seek a deeper understanding of important issues and challenges stemming from technology with an eye to how globalization and its attendant cultural and moral pluralism affect them. Topics include: business in a globalized world, information technology, military technology, food production, the environment, bioethics, energy, and emerging technologies.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies HuSS Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2624W The Rhetoric of Science

    4 Credits
    This course is an introduction to the history, theory, practice, and implications of rhetoric - the art and craft of persuasion. Specifically, this class focuses on the ways that scientists use various methods of persuasion as they construct scientific knowledge. By first examining the nature of science and rhetoric, we will then examine texts written by scientists and use rhetorical theory to analyze those texts. We will look at the professional scientific research articles and other genres of scientific writing. Finally, we’ll investigate the way that rhetoric plays a role in the everyday life of scientists. Throughout the class, we will wrestle with questions, such as: How is science rhetorical?; What can rhetorical analysis tell us about the ways that scientists use persuasion?; and, How might rhetorical analysis limit our understanding of science?

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2634 Psychology of the Internet

    4 Credits Credits
    This class investigates aspects of human behavior in terms of the Internet. The Internet is a technological phenomenon that allows people separated by huge distances to interact with each other in relatively seamless fashion. Does the Internet allow people to connect in ways never possible before? Or are these new connections variations of previous human interactions, only on a computer screen. For all of its positive attributes, the Internet has a negative side: People become increasingly dependent on interacting only through the Internet. Is this dysfunctional? What characterizes addictive behavior? Can addictive behavior be attributed to a physical action as opposed to a biological substance? 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2644 Creativity and Innovation

    4 Credits Credits



    This course explores the nature of the creative act. What does it take to be creative? What are some of the cognitive and personality variables that aid and hinder creativity? What are the characteristics of great innovators? Is innovation purely individual? Or are innovators a product of their time? The course also surveys literature on teaching creativity and innovation 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2664 Intelligence: Real and Artificial

    4 Credits Credits
    This course explores the nature of intelligence, both human and computer, and covers historical debates centered on intelligence testing. Can computers be programmed to think? If they can, what would a “thinking” computer look like? The course covers issues such as the Turing test and human-computer interaction. 
     

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of first year writing requirements
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2724 Dinosaurs: Resurrecting an Extinct Species

    4 Credits
    Large fossil bones have fascinated people since ancient times, and after 1842 some of these fossils were described as belonging to the taxum Dinosauria. Since then, new discoveries and scientific techniques have led to a series of changes in both the views of scientists and the public as to what dinosaurs were, what groups they were related to, and how they behaved and interacted with their environments. This course will look at the views of fossils in ancient Greece and Rome, and also in some modern tribal societies. Most emphasis will be on the changing views of paleontology, geology, biology and evolution from the Enlightenment period to the present. All major dinosaur groups will be discussed, as well as their physiology, relationships to other animals, behavior and ecology, as scientific ideas evolve and new discoveries are made. Finally, how scientists reconstruct dinosaurs through images, sculpture and mountings for the public and popular culture’s fascination with dinosaurs will be discussed.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 2904 Special Topic in STS

    4 Credits
    Special topic in Science and Technology Studies. Topic to be decided by instructor.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3004W Seminar in Science and Technology Studies

    4 Credits
    This course considers the current state of the field of Science and Technology Studies. Students are exposed to the range and methods of STS as well as their own place within the field. The course is designed specifically to bring students with different academic backgrounds into contact with each other in a classroom setting.

    Prerequisite(s): One Level 2 STS Cluster Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3013 Directed Study in STS

    3 Credits
    Directed study under supervision of faculty adviser in Humanities and Social Sciences. Students are exposed to foundational research techniques under the guidance of a faculty adviser. Library research, written and oral reports required.

    Prerequisite(s): STS-UY 2004  and permission of STS faculty adviser.
    Note: Does not satisfy a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3204 Science and Difference

    4 Credits
    This course considers the historical development of the science of difference - in particular, race and gender - from the scientific revolution to the present. We seek to understand historical episodes of cultural anxiety over biological variation by examining the construction of difference in living populations. Topics include historical theories of human variation, scientific racism and its rejection, the history of ethnicity and sexuality, colonialism and eugenics.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4  
    Note: Satisfies a HuSS Elective

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 3204W Science and Difference

    4 Credits
    This course considers the historical development of the science of difference - in particular, race and gender - from the scientific revolution to the present. We seek to understand historical episodes of cultural anxiety over biological variation by examining the construction of difference in living populations. Topics include historical theories of human variation, scientific racism and its rejection, the history of ethnicity and sexuality, colonialism and eugenics.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a HuSS Elective

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 3214 Science & Feminism

    4 Credits
    This course will introduce students to feminist perspectives from the field of Science & Technology Studies (STS). Scholars from anthropology, sociology, history, and philosophy of science are studied to gain insight on how gender and race affect the practice of science and how we come to think about facts, progress, modernity, and our technological and scientific worlds. Students are expected to become familiar with the basic theories, concepts, and questions of STS and will learn to apply critical feminist theory to analyze the day-to-day practice of science.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3214W Science and Feminism

    4 Credits
    This course will introduce students to feminist perspectives from the field of Science & Technology Studies (STS). Scholars from anthropology, sociology, history, and philosophy of science are studied to gain insight on how gender and race affect the practice of science and how we come to think about facts, progress, modernity, and our technological and scientific worlds. Students are expected to become familiar with the basic theories, concepts, and questions of STS and will learn to apply critical feminist theory to analyze the day-to-day practice of science.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: This course satisfies a HUSS requirement

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 3224 Queering Science and Technology

    4 Credits
    This course introduces students to the intersection of feminist STS and queer studies, to examine how cultural norms around bodies, identity, selfhood, gender, and sexuality shape the production of knowledge and expertise. We will engage with foundational theories and concepts, including heteronormativity, the social construction of technology, the production of space and place, and the relationship between power, knowledge, and subjectivity. We will explore these themes through case studies and topics such as cyborgs, monsters, and other nonhumans, queer time and space, digital media, public health, trans studies, embodiment, queer futurity, and more. The course is based around reading, writing, and discussion.

    Prerequisite(s): EXPOS-UA 1 , and one 1000-level or 2000-level course in the Science, Technology and Society cluster.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 3254W Philosophy of Science


    The philosophy of science is divided into two subfields: The first studies the nature and methodology of science. The second examines the conceptual and philosophical foundations of particular scientific fields. This course considers topics in the first subfield, including philosophical attempts to describe scientific explanations, laws of nature and the process by which evidence confirms theories in science. The course also considers the nature of scientific theories: what they are, how they change and how they can and should be interpreted

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3264 Physics, Information and Computation

    4 Credits Credits
    This course investigates the conceptual foundations of contemporary notions of information and computation from the point of view of physics. The course is divided into four parts: Part I considers the relation between entropy and global concepts of information; Part 2 considers the relation between space-time structure and physical concepts of computation; Part 3 considers the relation between quantum and classical information; and Part 4 considers attempts to reconceive physics entirely in information-theoretic terms. 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3284W Relativity and Spacetime

    4 Credits Credits
    The first part of this course develops the physics underlying special relativity and considers such conceptual questions as: Does Special Relativity prohibit faster-than-light travel? Does it allow a traveling astronaut to age less and return home in the distant future? What is the significance of Einstein’s famous equation “E = mc2”? The second part of the course develops the physics underlying general relativity and considers conceptual issues surrounding such current applications as time machines, wormholes and “warp-drive” spacetimes. 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • STS-UY 3354 Brain, Behavior, and the Mind: The History and Development of Neuroscience

    4 Credits
    This course traces the development of neuroscience and its techniques to the present day. Ranging from mesmerism and phrenology to physiology, genetics, and modern neuroscience, it considers various theories of the brain and its relationship to the body. Because neuroscience and its sub-disciplines will be one of the leading sciences of the 21st century, this course considers how an increased understanding of brain/mind relationships holds the promise for innovation in treating mental disorders, altering human habits, countering the effects of stress, and elsewhere. Other topics that may be discussed include learning and memory at both the cell and brain levels, and the ways insights from neuroscience are applied in medicine, law, economics, government policy, and religion.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3604 Psychology of Internet Security

    4 Credits Credits
    This course looks at the relationship between psychology and online security. How do computer hackers access secure computers strictly by asking people for their password? What are the key features of current security messages and how can they be made more explicit so the average computer user can understand them? What social-psychology principles are required for a secure network? And what perceptual issues help secure a computer network

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3814 Social Psychology of Virtual Worlds

    4 Credits Credits
    This course explores human relations in the virtual world. Do real-world interactions maintain themselves in an online community, or do the rules of social interaction change significantly in a virtual environment? When people perceive themselves as being anonymous, do they feel the same responsibility for their own behavior, or do they interact with others differently as they would in the real world? This course examines the psychology of online, virtual relationships with a view to compare and contrast them with real-world relationships. 

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3904 Special Topic in STS

    4 Credits
    Variable credit special topic in Science and Technology Studies. Topic to be decided by instructor.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4  
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 3914 Independent Study in STS

    4 Credits
    Variable credit independent study in Science and Technology Studies. Topic to be decided by instructor.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 4002 Capstone Project I in Science and Technology Studies

    2 Credits
    The capstone project is an opportunity for STS majors to complete an independent, integrative, piece of scholarship on an important issue involving science, technology, and society. The capstone experience is intended to bring together students’ past learning in previous courses, and to extend and deepen it by focusing on a specific, cumulative project. The capstone includes a substantial research paper and an oral presentation.

  
  • STS-UY 4003 Study Abroad

    3 Credits
    For STS majors only. Takes the form of either an internship or a semester studying abroad. Internship option: Supervised semester-long project carried out in a community or industry setting. Evaluated on the basis of written and oral reports presented to faculty and external project Co-sponsors. Students must maintain a course-load equivalent of 12 credits (including the 3 for STS 4003) during this semester. Study-Abroad option: Semester-long course of study at a foreign institution. Students must maintain a course-load equivalent of 12 credits (including the 3 for STS 4003) during this semester.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior/Senior status and permission of STS faculty adviser.
    Note: Does not satisfy a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.

  
  • STS-UY 4034 Internship

    4 Credits
    Students may undertake an internship for academic credit with an appropriate private, public, or non-profit agency or firm.  The internship is an opportunity to extend learning outside of the classroom into a real world setting, and to explore career options tied to the major.  Students complete 140 hours at the internship site and attend occasional class meetings.  The course involves completing a learning contract, regular reflections, assignments, and a final presentation. 

    Prerequisite(s): IDM/SUE/STS majors only.  Permission of instructor required.
  
  • STS-UY 4202 Capstone Project II in Science and Technology Studies

    2 Credits
    The second half of a 2 course sequence, in which STS majors complete an independent, integrative piece of scholarship on a current issue involving science, technology, and society. This course centers on analysis and writing; students will draw upon modes of STS analysis and use critical thinking skills to transform their project proposal from Capstone I into a formal research paper. Students will bring the depth and breadth of their STS knowledge to this culminating senior project, which will also include a research prospectus, literature review, and visual presentation/oral defense.

    Prerequisite(s): A grade of B- or better in STS-UY 4002  and senior standing.
  
  • STS-UY 4401 Independent Study in Science and Technology Studies

    1 Credits
  
  • STS-UY 4504 Advanced Seminar in Science and Technology

    4 Credits
    The Advanced Seminar is a writing- and research-intensive course that will explore in-depth a topic in Technology, Culture, and Society, requiring practice of both writing and research skills. Topics vary by section; see Albert for detailed topic descriptions.

    Prerequisite(s): EXPOS-UA 1  and one TCS elective course
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4

Society, Environment and Globlization

  
  • SEG-UY 2124W Public Policy Issues and the Internet: A Global Perspective

    4 Credits
    Following years of government-funded computer-research programs, successful communication between computers was accomplished in 1969, the start of the Internet era. The World Wide Web, created to facilitate the acquisition of information on the Internet, followed 20 years later. This course traces the history of the Internet, heralded as the free, open exchange of information among people all over the globe, and explores the maelstrom of complex issues that have arisen to thwart this idealistic dream of its planners: censorship, net neutrality, privacy and the social media, the role of the Internet as a political force, cybersecurity, copyright infringement, consumer tracking, street mapping. These and other controversial global issues are considered from the standpoint of the problems they pose and the policies of the various governments toward them.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • SEG-UY 2184W Beyond Oil: Fueling Tomorrow’s Vehicles

    4 Credits
    This course explores the alternatives to oil that vehicle manufacturers are pursuing in their desire to wean away from oil and its mercurial price swings. Students will be required to choose two of these alternative approaches and prepare white papers on each, covering the technology, advantages, limitations or drawbacks, cost saving, environmental impact and likelihood of success in the market place. The focus will be on biofuels, hybrids, the fuel cell, natural gas, hydrogen, the electric car.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • SEG-UY 2194W Writing About Nature and the Environment

    4 Credits
    In this course, students explore today’s major environmental and ecological issues and write a number of pieces that discuss causes and possible solutions. Each article is based on a literature search and on interviews with professionals. Class critiques of articles are an integral part of the learning process. Topics include global warming, renewable energy, health and the environment, environmental law and biodiversity. Authors of the best pieces are encouraged to submit them for publication.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • SEG-UY 4504 Advanced Seminar in Society, Envirnmnt, & Globaliz

    4 Credits
    The Advanced Seminar is a writing- and research-intensive course that will explore in-depth a topic in Technology, Culture, and Society, requiring practice of both writing and research skills. Topics vary by section; see Albert for detailed topic descriptions.

    Prerequisite(s): EXPOS-UA 1  and one TCS elective course
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4

Transportation

  
  • TR-GY 900X Readings in Transportation

    Variable Credits
    This is an individually guided effort involving research into a topic of interest, usually growing from a course the student has taken. Readings courses should not duplicate material available in a regularly scheduled course, but should involve additional research on a topic or topics of interest to the student that is related to a course or courses. A formal written report is required. The student must have a faculty adviser who agrees to work with them and an agreed-upon topic before registering. The student may register for 1 to 3 credits for a readings effort, in proportion to the effort and as approved by the supervising instructor.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of supervising instructor.
  
  • TR-GY 997X MS Thesis in Transportation

    3 Each Credits
    Students electing to take a 6-credit MS Thesis commit to a significant individually guided research effort, resulting in a formally defended thesis report, bound in accordance with Institute requirements.

    Prerequisite(s): MS degree status and permission of thesis adviser.
  
  • TR-GY 999X PhD Dissertation in Transportation Planning and Engineering

    Variable (24 Total) Credits
    The dissertation is an original investigation embodying the results of comprehensive research in a specific area of transportation worthy of publication in a recognized, formally refereed transportation journal. Students must defend formally their dissertations and submit a bound written document. Students must complete a minimum of 24 credits of dissertation registration before defending. Once the dissertation is started, the student must maintain a minimum of 3 credits of registration during each semester (not including summer) until the dissertation is complete. During the last semester of registration, the student may be permitted to register for .5 credit with the permission of the Graduate Office and dissertation adviser.

    Prerequisite(s): Passing grade for RE-GY 9990 PhD Qualifying Exam , graduate standing, and dissertation advisor approval
  
  • TR-GY 6013 Fundamental Concepts in Transportation

    3 Credits
    This course provides the contextual foundations to study urban transportation systems, using performance criteria reflecting the perspectives of system providers/owners, users and communities. The connection between transportation supply, travel demand, service volume and level of service is explored and quantified for various travel modes. The impacts of transportation system performance on travel behavior, communities and the environment is discussed. The role of technology and institutions is examined with case examples.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate status or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6021 Quantitative Analysis in Transportation

    1.5 Credits
    An overview of basic concepts in statistics and analytical analysis that are commonly used in transportation engineering.  Issues of sample size are addressed for both collection of field data and conducting various types of user surveys.  Statistical interpretation of study results is also treated.  Introductions, with transportation illustrations, to queuing theory, regression analysis, and ANOVA are included.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or permission of instructor
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 1.5 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6053 Transportation Economics and Finance Fundamentals

    3 Credits
    This course introduces students to the basic principles of engineering economic analysis and their application to transportation project alternatives. Fundamental concepts such as present worth and annual cost are described and illustrated. Methodologies for comparison of transportation alternatives are introduced: Benefit/Cost Ratio, rate of return, the nature of the costs and benefits of transportation alternatives. Financing of transportation is covered: where does the money come from, the highway trust fund, tolls, and other alternative options of financing transportation are covered.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3
  
  • TR-GY 6113 Forecasting Urban Travel Demand

    3 Credits
    The purpose of this course is to study methods and models used in estimating and forecasting person travel in urban areas. The objective is to understand the fundamental relationships between land use, transportation level of service and travel demand, and to apply methods and state-of-the-practice models for predicting person travel on the transportation system.

    Pre/Co-requisite: TR-GY 6013  or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6211 Economic Analysis of Transportation Alternatives

    1.5 Credits
    This course introduces students to the basic principles of engineering economic analysis and their application to transportation project alternatives.  Fundamental concepts such as present worth and annual cost are described and illustrated.  Methodologies for comparison of transportation alternatives are introduced, including the Present Worth Method, the Annual Cost Method, the Benefit-Cost Ratio Method, and the Rate of Return Method.  The nature of the costs and benefits of transportation alternatives is discussed

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 1.5
  
  • TR-GY 6223 Intelligent Transportation Systems and Their Applications

    3 Credits
    This course introduces the concepts and applications of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and its growing role in the management of transportation systems. The course stresses the role of ITS as national policy, as specified in major transportation funding legislation – ISTEA, TEA21 and SAFETY-LU. A systems engineering approach to overall development of ITS technologies is stressed. Major components of ITS are discussed, and examples of their application treated. Coordination and integration of ITS components are treated.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of adviser.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6231 Transportation Planning Principles and Practice

    1.5 Credits
    This course discusses the principles guiding the planning, design and operation of urban transportation systems. The concepts of mobility and accessibility are explored  through an analysis  of the interactions of land use, transportation supply and travel demand. Examples of transportation planning practice include a review of the Urban Transportation Planning Process in metropolitan areas and presentations from guest speakers.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or permission of instructor
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 1.5 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6313 Traffic Control and Signalization I

    3 Credits
    Traffic controls are imposed to provide for safe, efficient and orderly movement of people and goods on our nation’s street and highway systems. Traffic control is examined in the urban context in which both vehicles and pedestrians be accommodated. Techniques for quantifying traffic stream behavior are described. Federal, state and local standards for designing and implementing control devices are presented. Selection of control measures, design and timing of traffic signals at individual intersections and in arterial networks is treated in detail. Use and application of current computer tools – HCS++ and Synchro – are illustrated.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6323 Traffic Control and Signalization II

    3 Credits
    In furtherance of the material covered in TR-GY 6313 , emphasis is on the arterial as a facility and on systems concepts such as traffic calming, access management and roundabouts as a design element. Also covered are network problems induced by traffic congestion and remedies such as critical intersection control, network metering, oversaturated control policies and real time sensing, and traffic impacts from growth and development, including assessment and mitigation. The course employs the use of modern tools, including VISSIM, Synchro/SIMTraffic and HCS++, and two projects must be completed by students working in teams. This course should be taken in the student’s last or penultimate semester.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6313  or equivalent and TR-GY 6113  or equivalent.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6333 Transportation & Traffic Concepts

    3 Credits
    The course covers basic concepts in transportation and traffic engineering, including:  volume, demand, and capacity; traffic stream parameters and their meaning; transportation modes and modal characteristics.  The impact of traveler and vehicle characteristics on traffic flow and on other modes is presented and discussed.  The importance of data collection is emphasized with sample studies, such as volume, speed and travel time, and safety.  Capacity and level of service analysis for uninterrupted flow facilities, including freeways, multilane highways and two-lane highways is demonstrated using methodologies of the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or permission of instructor
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 6343 Traffic Operations & Control

    3 Credits
    The course focuses heavily on signalization, with an introduction to simulation and signal timing tools. The course covers warrants, timing pretimed signals, understanding actuated controllers and their settings, as well as detector types placement.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or departmental consent
  
  • TR-GY 6403 Transportation and Traffic Project

    3 Credits
    This is a capstone course involving individual and/or group projects that include several different aspects of transportation planning and engineering. The project will be different each year, and focus on a problem of current interest and importance.

    Prerequisite(s):   ,   ,   or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7013 Urban Transportation & Logistics Systems

    3 Credits
    This course provides graduate students with operations research methods to solve logistics problems faced by decision-makers for congested urban infrastructure. Optimization and evaluation methods covered include linear programming, network flow, integer programming, vehicle routing, facility location, functions of random variables, Markov processes, (point, spatial, and Jackson) queueing, and queue tolling. Students will design and analyze a toy system related to one of the following applications: public transport, shared mobility, ITS applications, freight deliveries, traffic operations.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate Standing or Department Permission
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3
  
  • TR-GY 7033 Multimodal Transportation Safety

    3 Credits
    Technology, legislation and market forces have contributed to improved transportation safety for decades. But one must consider which metrics are most relevant for which modes, the role of demographics and traffic levels and other factors when analyzing and predicting safety trends. The course pays attention to a systems view, to metrics by mode and to both standard field and statistical analyses. Consistent with current priorities, the course addresses security as well as safety issues.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of adviser.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7063 Stochastic models and methods for engineering systems

    3 Credits
    Basic theory of stochastic processes and random graphs with a variety of transportation applications. Random variables, events, laws of large numbers; Finite-state Markov chains, steady-state distribution, exponential convergence, Markov decision process; Poisson process, Little’s theorem, M/M/1 queues, queuing networks, hybercube model, fluid model; Branching process, Erdős-Rényi model, geometric random graph; Applications in connected/autonomous vehicles, intersections, highway traffic, transit, patrol, emergency services, air transportation, infrastructure maintenance, urban development

    Prerequisite(s): Knowledge of Undergraduate course on calculus, probability, and linear algebra.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3
  
  • TR-GY 7073 Travel Behavioral Informatics

    3 Credits
    This course teaches students how to design information systems for operating transportation facilities and services. The information systems are built on information obtained from a diverse population of travelers, and hence behavioral modeling is a crucial component. An introduction is provided of intelligent transportation systems (ITS): systems engineering, ITS architecture, and current ITS trends associated with behavioral information systems: e.g. cyber-physical transport systems, Internet of Things, and information & communications technologies (ICTs). An introduction to decision theory with incomplete information is provided based on different models random utility maximization: multinomial logit, probit, nested logit, mixed logit. Students will design tools based on behavioral choice models (for users) in a dynamic setting and construct simulation tests to evaluate them. A route choice information system (new technology marketing strategy, route diversion system, or fare/toll revenue management system) will be used as a case study.

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate Standing or Department Permission
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3
  
  • TR-GY 7123 Management of Urban Traffic Congestion

    3 Credits
    The purpose of this course is to (1) understand the causes of traffic congestion and to measure how congestion impacts transportation users and communities, (2) set forth a vision for managing congestion and (3) develop and evaluate strategies and policies that achieve the vision.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7133 Urban Public Transportation Systems

    3 Credits
    This course provides a thorough understanding of policy, planning, operational and technical issues that affect urban public transportation. It includes the historical development of cites and the rise of urban transport. Also covered are the characteristics of various urban transportation modes (their specific operating and infrastructure characteristics), as well as key elements that are critical to service provision, such as service planning, scheduling, fare collection, communication and signaling, station design and customer service. The course offers a broad perspective on regional planning, capital programming and policy matters. Special focus will be on emerging technologies and their practical applications.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of adviser.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7213 Transportation Management

    3 Credits
    This course presents an overview of the transportation management profession. Levels of management and unique objectives of management in the transportation sector are presented and discussed. Management structures for private and public transportation organizations are analyzed. Management practices are treated from the perspective of organizations, optimization of the use of public resources, legislative and legal contexts and operations.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of adviser.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7223 Management of Transit Maintenance and Operations

    3 Credits
    This course provides a comprehensive understanding of modern public transportation systems, emphasizing their technology and operational practices. Planning and management aspects are also covered. Such operational management issues as maintenance practices, scheduling, procurement and labor relations are broadly outlined and discussed. Planning and capital programming issues are also treated.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of adviser.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7233 Transportation Management

    3 Credits
  
  • TR-GY 7243 Intelligent Transportation Systems: Deployments and Technologies

    3 Credits
    Transportation infrastructure deploys a wide range of modern technology to provide service to travelers, the general public and private entities. This technology enables other systems to function effectively and serve societal needs. This course focuses on data communications and applications in intelligent transportation systems: communications alternatives and analyses, emerging technologies, geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS).

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6223  or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7323 Design of Parking and Terminal Facilities

    3 Credits
    This course covers design techniques and approaches to a variety of pedestrian and vehicular needs in conjunction with access to land functions. Parking serves as the primary access interface to many land facilities, from shopping centers and sports facilities, to medium- and high-density residential developments. The planning and design of parking facilities, and the planning of access and egress from these facilities, is critical to the economic success of a development. Terminals are inter-modal interface facilities involving the transfer of people and/or goods from one mode of transportation to another. This course covers essential elements of terminal planning and design, including transit stations and terminals, major goods terminals at ports and railheads and others. The design of pedestrian space and ways within terminal structures is also treated.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013  or permission of adviser.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7343 Urban Freeways and Intercity Highways

    3 Credits
    This course focuses on the design, analysis, control and management of urban freeways and intercity highways of all classes. The course covers geometric design standards and principals, the application of highway capacity and level of service analysis methodologies (including HCS++), marking and signing, speed control and modern freeway management systems and approaches.

    Prerequisite(s): TR-GY 6013 , TR-GY 6313 , or equivalents, or permission of instructor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 7353 Data-driven Mobility Modeling and Simulation

    3 Credits
    This course introduces software used in various transportation analyses, traffic simulation and signal optimization software. The course covers SYNCHRO, software for creating optimal signal timings and progression offsets, as well as performing a capacity and level of service analysis of signalized intersections in accordance with the Highway Capacity Manual. Also covered is the use of the AIMSUN simulation program to analyze a traffic network. The course will focus on the theory behind the programs, as well as on practical examples of how to optimally use each package. Applications will include analysis of adaptive control systems and implementations.

    Prerequisite(s):   and   or equivalents; or permission of academic advisor.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 8011 Special Topics in Transportation A

    1.5 Credits
    Subject(s) of a highly focused nature on a topic of current interest.  Subject will vary with each offering.

  
  • TR-GY 8013 Selected Topics in Transportation I

    3 Credits
    These courses are given as needed to present material on current topical subjects that are not expected to be given on a regular basis. The topic(s) for each offering are indicated and are listed on the student’s transcript. These courses may be taken more than once if the listed topics are different.

    Prerequisite(s):   and as approved for the topic(s); to be specified for each offering.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0
  
  • TR-GY 8021 Special Topics in Transportation B

    1.5 Credits
    Subject(s) of a highly focused nature on a topic of current interest.  Subject will vary with each offering.

  
  • TR-GY 8023 Selected Topics in Transportation II

    3 Credits
    These courses are given as needed to present material on current topical subjects that are not expected to be given on a regular basis. The topic(s) for each offering are indicated and are listed on the student’s transcript. These courses may be taken more than once if the listed topics are different.

    Prerequisite(s):   and as approved for the topic(s); to be specified for each offering.
    Weekly Lecture Hours: 3 | Weekly Lab Hours: 0 | Weekly Recitation Hours: 0

Urban Studies

  
  • URB-UY 391x Independent Study in SUE

    1-4 Credits
    Independent study in Sustainable Urban Environments. Topics to be decided by the instructor.

    Prerequisite(s): Instructor’s Permission.
  
  • URB-UY 401X SUE Global Experience

    1-4 Credits
    In the course, students will learn about urban sustainability issues in China. They will also plan the research project to be conducted in Shanghai during J term. The class is open only to students who plan to also participate in the Shanghai research project. MUST pay activity fee deposit prior to start of semester.

  
  • URB-UY 2004 Global Perspectives on Urban Sustainability

    4 Credits
    This course will give students a grounding in urban sustainability issues as they apply locally and globally, with an emphasis on case studies of problems and attempts at solutions in many different urban sites. The course materials address the broad range of social, cultural, technical, historical, political and technical issues that are part of urban sustainability.

  
  • URB-UY 2024 Design of Cities

    4 Credits
    This course helps students examine cities from different perspectives, and to understand the design principles that create effective city spaces and how the city is a dynamic force, always changing through the impact of individuals and organizations. The class focuses on the role of historical, physical and social context in making sense of cities and how city problems can be identified, presented to others and addressed in various ways (through psychological and sociological studies, literature, art, etc.). Students complete a team-based project that involves the study of an innovative development project within the city and how it relates to its physical and social context.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2024W Design of Cities

    4 Credits
    This course helps students examine cities from different perspectives, and to understand the design principles that create effective city spaces and how the city is a dynamic force, always changing through the impact of individuals and organizations. The class focuses on the role of historical, physical and social context in making sense of cities and how city problems can be identified, presented to others and addressed in various ways (through psychological and sociological studies, literature, art, etc.). Students complete a team-based project that involves the study of an innovative development project within the city and how it relates to its physical and social context.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • URB-UY 2034 Humans in the Urban Environment

    4 Credits
    In an increasingly urban dominated world, the environmental and ecological underpinnings of the human species help us understand why and how permanent settlements and cities evolve. The course covers basic environmental and ecological relationships, including geological, climatological, biomes, population growth models and carrying capacity. Receiving special emphasis are those ecosystems most important to humans throughout prehistory and history. The development of agriculture, increased human resource productivity and the resulting increase in population density is discussed as an underlying basis for developing and maintaining urban population areas. Also included is a discussion of changes in human social organization and psychology necessary for urban living.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2044 Methods for Studying Urban Environments

    4 Credits
    This course provides students with a foundation for understanding and using social science research methods to study urban environments.  In this course, students will gain an understanding of quantitative and qualitative approaches to social science research.  They will be introduced to a range of data collection methods that are used to study urban environments and also strategies for data analysis.  The course will involve a group research project with a real world client, as well as lectures, discussions, a group presentation and paper, exams, readings and several assignments.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2054 Introduction to Urban Policy

    4 Credits
    The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the process and some of the major substantive issues in urban policy and politics in the United States, with some transnational contrasts. These include some of the basic issues of any political system: how cities function as part of a global urban network; the structure of decision making, the allocation of resources and delivery of services.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: This course satisfies an HUSS requirement

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • URB-UY 2054W Introduction to Urban Policy

    4 Credits
    The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the process and some of the major substantive issues in urban policy and politics in the United States, with some transnational contrasts.   These include some of the basic issues of any political system: how cities function as part of a global urban network; the structure of decision making, the allocation of resources and delivery of services.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2064 Introduction to Urban Planning

    4 Credits
    Introduction to Urban Planning explores planning precedents (the “big ideas”) including the City Beautiful movement, Garden Cities, Modernism, and the New Urbanism; examines contemporary planning practices including zoning, transportation-oriented development, citizen participation, affordable housing, and land preservation; and explores “planning without planners” including suburban sprawl, self-built shanty towns/slums, and historic preservation. A case study approach will be used for all concepts (including field trips to iconic planned communities in New York City).

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2114 Geographic Information Systems

    4 Credits
    Geographic Information Systems are computer systems for the storage, retrieval, analysis, and display of geographic data, that is data about features and phenomena on the surface of the earth. This course will introduce the students to GIS through hands-on computer exercises, as well as readings and lectures about cartography, tools, data, and the social impacts of GIS. GIS projects start with data and move through analysis to cartographic display. Pedagogically, we will be starting at the end moving backward to data and analysis.

    Note: This course cannot be used to satisfy the Humanities/Social Science requirement.

  
  • URB-UY 2224 Natural Environment of New York City

    4 Credits
    New York is one of the world’s great cities and, like others, rests on a foundation of the natural environment. The geology and geographic history of the greater New York area is discussed- from plate tectonic origins through the recent (and ongoing) Ice Age, including the formation of river systems and the port. Also considered in detail is the evolution of ecological relationships, including human, throughout this time. Other topics include the changing climate through past epochs as well as today and their impact on the modern city. Also covered are current environmental challenges, such as water supply and quality, air quality, waste disposal and global effects, including atmospheric and ocean warming.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2234 Natural Environmental Catastrophes and Cities

    4 Credits
    Cities are extremely complex physical and human systems that can be severely disrupted by acute human-caused events such as war. However, the natural world can also have a severe impact on cities over brief intervals. This course concerns itself with four well-known phenomena that can and have influenced the development, sustainability and even the survival of cities. Meteorological catastrophes, such as hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons, are discussed in detail. Also covered are less violent but equally destructive flooding by river and ocean; earthquake damage and its relationship to population density and the permanence of towns and cities throughout history; and volcanic eruptions, which, though rare, have disrupted cities and determined their initial locations. Finally, biological catastrophes, both macro and micro, such as pestilence and infestations, are discussed.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Notes: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 2334 Introduction to Environmental Sciences

    4 Credits
    This course addresses the basic processes, as studied by the physical, biological sciences, and behavioral that determine the nature of the physical environment and how it affects life on earth. Topics include the physical environment (Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, climate); the biological environment (biological systems, biodiversity, population dynamics, ecology) and modern environmental problems, including resource shortages (such as water and energy), diseases, soil, water and air pollution, climate change and their relationship to political and economic issues.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: This course cannot be used to satisfy the Humanities/Social Science requirement.

  
  • URB-UY 3014 Directed Study in SUE

    4 Credits
    Directed study supervised by a faculty adviser in Humanities and Social Sciences. Students, guided by a faculty adviser, are exposed to foundational research techniques. Library research, written and oral reports are required.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Does not satisfy a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 3034 Evidence-Based Design

    4 Credits
    Designers-at the product, building, neighborhood or urban level-necessarily base their work on the perceived needs and desires of users and clients. Historically, these understandings have come from past practice, close interactions with clients or designer intuition. In recent years, however, design researchers have accumulated enough information to provide an empirical base upon which to base many design decisions. This class reviews the evidence for design, particularly as it relates to well-studied settings, such as health care, corrections and neighborhood design.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 3044 Green Cities

    4 Credits
    This course will provide students with an understanding of different types of green spaces that exist in urban areas, such as parks, urban forestry and agriculture, and sustainable streetscapes. It will explore how the greening of cities may incorporate various green infrastructure designs and techniques, and will examine the benefits that green places in cities provide to urban inhabitants as well as the city itself. Although some focus will be on New York City places and policies, the course will also explore greening techniques, designs and policies in other cities in the United States and internationally. Students will learn about public policies that impact the implementation of greening initiatives and how the physical environment affects the quality of life for individuals and communities.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • URB-UY 3044W Green Cities

    4 Credits
    This course will provide students with an understanding of different types of green spaces that exist in urban areas, such as parks, urban forestry and agriculture, and sustainable streetscapes. It will explore how the greening of cities may incorporate various green infrastructure designs and techniques, and will examine the benefits that green places in cities provide to urban inhabitants as well as the city itself. Although some focus will be on New York City places and policies, the course will also explore greening techniques, designs and policies in other cities in the United States and internationally. Students will learn about public policies that impact the implementation of greening initiatives and how the physical environment affects the quality of life for individuals and communities.

    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

    Weekly Lecture Hours: 4
  
  • URB-UY 3214 Cities in Developing Countries

    4 Credits
    This course will examine different facets of cities in developing countries. It will address common problems in developing urban regions, gaining an understanding of common settlement patterns and urban systems by region. It will also focus on specific issues in representative cities of the regions studied. Specific issues will include water and sanitation, health, transportation and infrastructure, historic preservation, disaster risk reduction and housing initiatives. Cases will include representative cities from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 3234 Planning for Healthy Cities

    4 Credits
    This course is designed to introduce students to the role of the built environment in promoting community health, focusing on the neighborhood scale. Although urban planning and public health are closely related in their history and their goals, these fields are typically taught and practiced independently. The course will examine health issues that can be influence by urban planning, and will explore the role of transportation, land use planning, urban design, community development, and environmental policy, to promote public health.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of EXPOS-UA 1  or EXPOS-UA 4 .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

  
  • URB-UY 3314 History and Design of Urban Parks

    4 Credits
    Today, urban parks have become an integral feature of most modern cities. This course describes the origins of urban parks-from private urban-palace gardens to the large, open “natural” public parks so critical to urban life today. The design of these parks, from formal Italian and French gardens to British Landscape gardens, is discussed. The course also examines the changing view of nature in Europe and America, from the Renaissance to the present, and how park design was influenced by this evolving view. The design was strongly influenced by the changing view of nature’s psychological, spiritual and even supposedly medical benefits, and by the need for “parks for the people” as an expression of the new democratic spirit in a changing world. This course also includes two of New York City’s most famous parks, Central Park in Manhattan and Prospect Park in Brooklyn.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of first year writing requirements and  URB-UY 2034  or URB-UY 2024W .
    Note: Satisfies a humanities and social sciences elective.

 

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