Honors Courses

Critical Thinking and Writing (ENG 153H)

Foundations for the critical analysis of differing theories of knowledge will be examined.  The process of argument analysis will be introduced and practiced.  Students will be encouraged to think more in terms of identifying and generating questions than in absorbing facts, and they will learn to identify conclusions and reasons given in support of those conclusions.  Responses to various readings will be used as a way of practicing the skills students are developing.  The semester project will be a documented research paper on a major thinker or writer.  May substitute for ENG 131 or a Humanitites elective.

Introduction to Literature/Christian Literary Classics

(ENG 154H)

An evaluation of the Christian's literary heritage.  This seminar course focuses on the ways that Christian writers have used literature to express their faith.  Class discussion will center on a critical analysis of the text, the authors' use of various literary techniques in expressing their worldview, and the structure of specific arguments to answer cultural concerns.  May substitute for ENG 132 or a Humanities elective.

Honors Mathematics Component

Students will take a math course of their choice and take on an additional Honors component that will focus on the influence of mathematics on Western culture.  Analysis will include the role of religion in the development of mathematics and the influence of mathematics on the development of a Christian worldview.  Upon registration, students must request Honors credit for the course and the Honors module material will be added to the requirements of the course.  This component will be the same for all Honors students.  Transfer students with math credit may take this component for one hour of credit.  An "H" designation will be added to the course number of the math course students choose.

Honors Science Component

Students will take a science course of their choice and take on an additional Honors component that will focus on the fundamental concepts and principles of science while including a heavy focus on the experimental method and the historical and philosophical theories of the specific area of science the course covers. One hour of lab each week is included.  Upon registration, students must request Honors credit for the course and the Honors module material will be added to the requirements of the course.  This component will be the same for all Honors students.  Transfer students with science credit may take this component for one hour of credit.  An "H" designation will be added to the course number of the science course students choose. 

History of Modern Western Thought (353H)

An analysis of the ebb and flow of modern thought since 1800.  Class lectures, reading, and discussions will focus around the seminal thinkers and their contribution to the current fragmentation in Wester thinking.  The semester project will be a written report on the thought of a major Western thinker.  May substitute for a History, Humanities, or Social Science elective.

Honors Christian Ethics Component (THE 354H)

An examination of the process of making moral decisions.  Students apply Biblical principles to issues in personal conduct, as well as social problems such as euthanasia, abortion, and poverty.  Students will also be encouraged to address ethical issues related to their major.  The Honors component will be added to the regular Christian Ethics course.

Honors Contract Courses in Student's Major

Students are required to take two Honors courses in their respective majors.  Transfer students who take the one-hour Honors Math and the one-hour Honors Science component must take three contract honors courses in their major.

Twentieth Century Christian Thinkers (454H)

Study of the thought of leading Christian thinkers in the twentieth century will be presented in a seminar format.  Through a reading of individual works, students will investigate each author's specific answers to cultural objections to Christianity.  May substitute for a Bible, English, Humanities, or Social Science elective.