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    Apr 25, 2024  
American University Catalog 2018-2019 
    
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American University Catalog 2018-2019 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

 

Environmental Studies (Graduate and Advanced Undergraduate Courses)
  

  • ENVS-096 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (0)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • ENVS-500 Ecohydrology (3)

    This course examines how hydrological processes at macro and watershed scales influence aquatic ecology. It also examines the influence of velocity, volume, flow path (e.g. overland, groundwater, pipe-flow), and water chemistry on stream biology/ecology. Emphasis is on freshwater and estuarine systems. Students are introduced to quantitative modeling of hydrological processes.
  

  • ENVS-505 Energy (3)

    General overview of sources of energy and energy utilization with a focus on the relevant physical concepts, quantification and an emphasis on sustainability. Includes the definition of work, energy, and power; an examination of thermodynamics; different forms of energy and their inter conversion; fossil, nuclear and alternative energy sources; and energy efficiency and conservation. Usually Offered: spring.
  

  • ENVS-520 Biogeochemistry (3)

    Description and analysis of the physical phenomena occurring on the earth. Earth as a dynamic planet; two major energy systems: hydrologic and tectonic systems. The relationship between geological changes and human activities: human activities change geological materials and processes on the earth, and natural processes and events affect society.
  

  • ENVS-572 Topics in Conservation Biology (3)

    Topics vary by section. Rotating topics on current research in conservation biology, including habitat protection, ecosystem management, and captive breeding. Usually Offered: alternate springs. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • ENVS-582 Environmental Law (3)

    An overview of environmental law and environmental regulation for environment scientists and environmental policy analysts. Usually Offered: alternate springs.
  

  • ENVS-590 Independent Reading Course in Environmental Studies (1-6)

    Permission: instructor and department chair.
  

  • ENVS-596 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.

Environmental Studies (Graduate Courses)
  

  • ENVS-610 Environmental Science I (3)

    This course starts with the history and overarching concepts of environmental science, and continues with a survey of aspects including population and demographics; agriculture and toxic substances; energy sources, energy utilization, and efficiency; water resources and pollution; local and regional air pollution; and ozone depletion and global warming/climate change. Examples are chosen with a current global perspective and an eye to policy debates. Crosslist: ENVS-410 . Usually Offered: fall.
  

  • ENVS-615 Environmental Science II (3)

    This course covers the geological cycling of nutrients and elements that are heavily influenced by biological function as well as geochemical processes. The global geochemical cycles of oxygen, hydrogen, sulfur, nitrogen, carbon, etc. are broken down and quantified. The course also covers the origins of the biosphere, biogeochemistry of land and water, climate change scenarios, carbon sequestration, and environmental acidification. Current research articles addressing important areas of environmental science are presented, linking the science discussed in class with environmental policy decisions and debates Crosslist: ENVS-415 . Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only.
  

  • ENVS-655 Environmental Geographic Information Systems (3)

    Geographic information systems (GIS) hardware and software are commonly used to map and analyze the drivers and implications of deforestation, urbanization, air/water/soil pollution, environmental health disparities, and myriad other spatial-environmental phenomena. In this course students enhance their theoretical and technical knowledge of GIS through analysis and cartographic representation of socio-environmental issues. The course primarily uses ArcGIS, with emphasis on spatial modeling and Model Builder. Crosslist: ENVS-455 . Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: CSC-610 .
  

  • ENVS-660 Climatology (3)

    This course investigates the physical and energetic exchange mechanisms within the atmosphere through time and space. Climate is examined by reconstructing the past and modeling future trends. Emphasis is placed on large-scale climate patterns, but the processes involved in storm front development also are explored. Topics covered include atmosphere-ocean interaction, wind circulation patterns, atmospheric water vapor and temperature, hurricane and tornado development, and the climate’s impact on humans and their response to it. Crosslist: ENVS-460 .
  

  • ENVS-665 Environmental Risk Assessment (3)

    The nature and methods of environmental risk assessment through critical analysis of case histories. The scientific concepts and analytic methods of each case study are explored through solution to sets of specific problems. Case studies include statistical modeling of environmental risk factors, the principle of uncertainty, toxicology, epidemiology, the differing routes of exposure, types of technical risks, basics of decision analysis, and effective communication of risk assessment results. Crosslist: ENVS-465 . Usually Offered: fall.
  

  • ENVS-670 Water Resources (3)

    A study of the availability, quality, dynamics, and cycles of water. Emphasizes the hydrologic cycle and relevant atmospheric processes, subsurface movement of water, floods and droughts, drainage basin analysis, and factors affecting water quality. Crosslist: ENVS-470 . Usually Offered: spring.
  

  • ENVS-675 Environmental Toxicology (3)

    This course combines elements of many scientific disciplines including biology, chemistry, environmental science, and risk assessment. It is the study of the effects of toxic substances on environmental systems and in living organisms including humans. In this course students gain an understanding of the sources of environmental contaminants; examine toxicological methods to assess the fate and effects of environmental chemicals on organisms and the environment; and explore toxic substances of current and emerging concern. The fundamental concepts are reinforced by discussions and projects that draw upon case studies and the peer-reviewed scientific literature. Crosslist: ENVS-475 . Usually Offered: alternate springs.
  

  • ENVS-681 Environmental Practicum (1-3)

    Faculty directed field or laboratory-based environmental science research. Students design and implement a research-intensive project with goal of producing a manuscript for a peer-reviewed publication.
  

  • ENVS-685 Remote Sensing of the Environment (3)

    Satellite and aerial imagery allow for analysis of environmental conditions and change at every point on earth, nearly every day. This course introduces multispectral (e.g., Landat, MODIS) and hyperspectral imagery as well as lidar (light detection and ranging) data in the context of quantitative ecological analysis. The course includes remote sensing physical bases, sensors, applications, and methods. Crosslist: ENVS-485 . Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: CSC-610  or ENVS-655 .
  

  • ENVS-690 Environmental Science Research (1-3)

    Independent research projects in environmental science. Usually Offered: fall and spring.
  

  • ENVS-691 Internship in Environmental Studies (1-3)

    Permission: instructor and department chair.
  

  • ENVS-696 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • ENVS-797 Master’s Thesis Research (1-6)

    Grading: SP/UP only.

Business: Finance (Noncredit)
  

  • FIN-085 Business Education for Practicing Physicians (0)

    This executive development education program provides business skills and knowledge to physicians. These skills include understanding and analyzing financial statements; evaluating investment proposals; dealing with management issues including hiring and firing and collective bargaining; regulatory compliance such as Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Medicare, and Stark Regulations; medical record issues and information technology (PMS/EMR); insurer and reimbursement practices; and working in a practice versus being an employee.

Business: Finance (Undergraduate Courses)
  

  • FIN-096 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (0)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • FIN-196 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • FIN-197 Financial Literacy I: Financial Planning and the Time Value of Money (1)

    This is the first course of a three-course sequence for students to build their financial literacy. It provides a foundation of the basic concepts of personal financial literacy. It includes an introduction to basic personal financial planning and personal budgeting including the effects of taxes as well as the concept of the time value of money and how to make time value of money calculations. Restriction: Registration not allowed in both FIN-197 and FIN-200 . Note: Students may not receive credit toward a degree for both FIN-197 and FIN-200 .
  

  • FIN-198 Financial Literacy II: Debt, Insurance, and Savings (1)

    This is the second course of a three-course sequence for students to build their financial literacy. The course explains how the various forms of credit work as well as the advantages and disadvantages of different types of credit. It provides an understanding of the options for personal, medical, automobile, and real estate insurance, and shows how to develop a personal savings plan. Prerequisite: FIN-197 . Restriction: Registration not allowed in both FIN-198 and FIN-200 . Note: Students may not receive credit toward a degree for both FIN-198 and FIN-200 .
  

  • FIN-199 Financial Literacy III: Personal Investing (1)

    This is the third course of a three-course sequence for students to build their financial literacy. The course explains modern investment theory, the variety of investment instruments, and fundamental investing strategies. Prerequisite: FIN-197 . Restriction: Registration not allowed in both FIN-199 and FIN-200 . Note: Students may not receive credit toward a degree for both FIN-199 and FIN-200 .
  

  • FIN-200 Personal Finance and Financial Institutions FA4 (3)

    Provides the background for making personal financial decisions within a social and institutional context and developing future financial plans. Shows how to set financial goals, devise strategies to attain them, and understand the tradeoffs inherent in the decision making process. Includes cash flow control, banking, credit, taxes, financing houses and automobiles, insurance, investments, and estate planning. Restriction: Registration not allowed in both FIN-200, and FIN-197 , FIN-198 , or FIN-199 . Note: Students may not receive credit toward a degree for both FIN-200, and FIN-197 , FIN-198 , or FIN-199 .
  

  • FIN-201 Real World Investing and Applied Personal Finance (3)

    This course presents students a professional-level investment methodology that begins with investor goals and proceeds toward the choice of individual investments. The course provides students with alternative methods for successful investing as opposed to trading and focuses on active and passive approaches. The course assists students in life-long personal investing. Prerequisite: FIN-200 .
  

  • FIN-230 Finance: Concepts and Applications (3)

    This introductory course for non-business majors surveys the fundamental concepts and applications in finance, including financial markets, time value of money, risk and return, stock and bond valuation, and capital budgeting. Basic accounting, economic, and statistical concepts are introduced and firm and industry examples are used to illustrate various types of managerial problems. Note: This course is designed for non-business majors and may not be substituted for FIN-365  and/or ACCT-240 .
  

  • FIN-296 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • FIN-365 Business Finance (3)

    Introduction to business finance, including global aspects, overview of money, and capital markets; financial analysis and time value of money; corporate securities, stock and bond pricing; acquisition and use of funds and cost of capital; capital budgeting. Also includes an introduction to portfolio diversification and asset pricing models. Prerequisite: ACCT-240 , ECON-150  or ECON-200 , and STAT-204 .
  

  • FIN-390 Independent Reading Course in Finance (1-3)

    Permission: instructor and department chair.
  

  • FIN-391 Internship in Finance (1-6)

    Provides students with the opportunity to blend practical business work experience with academic study. The academic workload varies depending on the internship credit to be earned. Prerequisite: FIN-365  and KSB-101 . Permission: instructor.
  

  • FIN-396 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • FIN-410 The Tools of Financial Markets (1)

    This course introduces students to the most up-to-date financial analytical tools, including Bloomberg and Thomson-Reuters, which support the data collection and analysis for companies, equity, fixed income, foreign exchange (forex), and commodities. The course provides hands-on usage of current financial software and industry databases and prepares students to complete the Bloomberg certification. Crosslist: FIN-610 . Grading: Pass/Fail only. Note: knowledge of Excel required.
  

  • FIN-460 Financial Modeling (3)

    This course provides students with decision-making skills derived from the ability to understand, perform, and interpret complex financial calculations and models used in finance. It presents the theory and practice of finance, emphasizing computer-based financial modeling, forecasting and the use of financial software applications to analyze the impacts of financial decisions. The course covers a variety of techniques, such as sensitivity and scenario analysis, optimization methods and Monte Carlo simulation. Crosslist: FIN-660 . Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-461 Behavioral Finance (3)

    This course examines the field of finance within the context of behavior theory. Students learn the underlying principles and latest research on decision-making under conditions of uncertainty in financial settings. Topics include the behavioral aspects of corporate finance, asset prices, and financial market anomalies. Crosslist: FIN-661 . Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .

  

  • FIN-462 Private Wealth Management (3)

    This course focuses on methods of sound money management in preparation for Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification. Students learn to prepare personal financial plans, evaluate and select management investments, analyze insurance, and use credit effectively; including mortgages. The course also covers financial strategies for tax minimization and retirement planning. The methodology is that of life-cycle planning and personal risk management. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-463 International Finance (3)

    Business finance in a global context. The structure and nature of the foreign exchange markets, including measuring and managing foreign exchange risk, hedging in an international context, the international monetary system, international corporate structure and aspects of financial operation of the multinational firm. The cost of capital and capital budgeting in an international context are also studied. Crosslist: IBUS-463 . Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-464 Financial Markets and Institutions (3)

    Topics covered include interest rates, risk and term structure, financial markets efficiency, fundamentals of financial and depository institutions, agency problems, financial regulation, and interest rate risk management. An integrated view of the participating institutions and the markets in which they operate, their investment constraints, and resulting portfolios. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-465 Derivative Securities (3)

    Analysis of debt and equity-based futures and options contracts and their underlying cash market instruments. Characteristics of derivative instruments markets. Pricing of derivative instruments. Speculative, hedging, and arbitrage uses of derivative instruments. Risk-return tradeoffs in speculation and hedging. Limited coverage of currency futures and options and exotic derivative instruments. Prerequisite: FIN-469 .
  

  • FIN-466 Real Estate Principles and Transactions (3)

    Principles and practices of listing real property, agreement of sale, and the transfer of title or ownership and interests. Drawing documents, contracts, deeds, leases, financing and other instruments. Private and public property rights, liens, taxes, assessments, and other claims on real estate. Mathematical problems in investment real estate. Approved for the real estate salesperson examination. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-467 Mortgage Finance (3)

    Impact of the national economy on real estate; application of macroeconomics (GNP, consumer spending, inflation, interest rates, and other data) to housing and commercial property; mortgage market analysis, including ARMs and creative financing, secondary mortgage markets, MBSs, CMOs, and other new developments in real estate finance. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-468 Intermediate Corporate Finance (3)

    Investment, financing, and dividend-policy decisions of the financial manager. Case studies and problems are some of the tools used to enable the student to make and see the effects of financial decisions. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-469 Investment Analysis (3)

    Investment objectives. Methods of appraising corporate equity, debt, and other securities. Portfolio theory and management, technical analysis, random walk theory, and the role of institutional investors. Case studies and computer simulation are used. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-470 Alternative Assets (3)

    Developed through the lens of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association and oriented toward satisfying the academically-based professional certification requirements of the industry, this course is a deep dive into the theory, practice and application of alternative assets investment analysis and management. Crosslist: FIN-670 . Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: FIN-469 .
  

  • FIN-472 Fixed Income (3)

    The course develops the foundations for the analysis, trading, and use of fixed-income instruments, both cash and derivative securities. It revolves around the modeling of interest-rate and default risk, the pricing of various fixed-income products, and one-factor models of the yield curve. Students become familiar with yield curve calculus including duration and convexity, various segments of global fixed-income markets, the Bloomberg system for analyzing and trading fixed-income securities and their derivatives, one-factor models of the yield curve, financial innovations in fixed-income derivatives such as default swaps, and securitization. Prerequisite: FIN-469 .
  

  • FIN-475 Real Estate Management and Development (3)

    Property management, development, operation, and construction of physical real estate, including residential, industrial, office, hotel, and retail. Development investment strategies including land-use planning, zoning, entitlement, and coordination of construction, and valuation of land, including real options. Operation and management of property, including issues of agency and self-selection, tenant selection, retention, and management. Prerequisite: FIN-365 .
  

  • FIN-490 Independent Study Project in Finance (1-3)

    Prerequisite: FIN-365 . Permission: instructor and department chair.
  

  • FIN-494 Community Service-Learning Project (1)

    Grading: Pass/Fail only. Permission: instructor and Center for Community Engagement & Service.
  

  • FIN-496 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.

Business: Finance (Graduate and Advanced Undergraduate Courses)
  

  • FIN-573 Corporate Valuation and Financial Strategy (3)

    Examines ways to increase firm value through corporate restructuring. Includes the theoretical background on restructuring, valuation techniques, mergers, acquisitions, spin-offs, divestiture activities, LBOs, and financial distress. Reviews theory and practice through case analysis and emphasizes valuation analysis and the role of financial markets in each area. Prerequisite: FIN-365  and FIN-468  or FIN-469 , or FIN-614 .
  

  • FIN-574 Quantitative Methods in Finance (3)

    Students gain an understanding of applied econometric models typically used in finance to become familiar with techniques for analyzing real-world financial and economic research. The course includes conducting empirical research, data sources, univariate tests, multivariate regression, portfolio concepts, and other research applications. Prerequisite: FIN-365  and FIN-468  or FIN-469 , or FIN-614 .
  

  • FIN-575 CFA Level I Intensive Review (3)

    This course provides an intensive review to help students prepare for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level I examination. Includes ethical and professional standards, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting and analysis, corporate finance, portfolio management, securities markets and equity investments, fixed income investments, derivatives, and alternative investments. Note: Senior or graduate standing required.
  

  • FIN-576 Student-Managed Investment Fund (1-3)

    The Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) is a collaborative class that provides valuable, real-time experiential learning in securities analysis and portfolio management. Students learn equity valuation and portfolio management techniques and tools to demonstrate practical knowledge in research, investing, portfolio management, and the dynamics of equity markets. Repeatable for credit. Prerequisite: FIN-469  or FIN-672 . Permission: instructor.
  

  • FIN-596 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.

Business: Finance (Graduate Courses)
  

  • FIN-060 Introduction to Finance (0)

    This course provides students with a foundation of the basic concepts of financial theory, accounting theory, and techniques of analysis. Students learn about valuation theory, theories of risk measurement, managing the firm’s investment decisions, cash distributions, and capital structure, sources of financing for the firm, and financial planning and analysis. Grading: Pass/Fail only.
  

  • FIN-605 Managerial Economics and Corporate Strategy (3)

    Basic economic tools and concepts are presented in the context of addressing managerial decisions related to firm strategy. Topics covered include demand and supply, pricing policies, market structures, and appropriate responses to macroeconomic policies and outcomes as they apply to private business, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Students learn basic economic concepts and how to apply them in many different market situations.
  

  • FIN-610 The Tools of Financial Markets (1)

    This course introduces students to the most up-to-date financial analytical tools, including Bloomberg and Thomson-Reuters, which support the data collection and analysis for company, equity, fixed income, foreign exchange (forex), and commodities. The course provides hands-on usage of current financial software and industry databases and prepares students to complete the Bloomberg certification. Crosslist: FIN-410 . Grading: Pass/Fail only. Note: knowledge of Excel required.
  

  • FIN-614 Financial Management (3)

    Financial theory and techniques of analysis, including valuation theory, theories of risk measurement, managing the firm’s investment decisions, cash distributions, and capital structure, sources of financing for the firm and financial planning and analysis. Prerequisite: ACCT-607 , FIN-605 , and ITEC-610 .
  

  • FIN-630 Financial Analysis of the Firm: Concepts and Applications (3)

    This course presents finance and accounting concepts as management tools. It covers financial theory and techniques involving time value of money, valuation, and risk measurement and students develop an understanding of a firm’s investment decisions and financing practices. The course also covers underlying concepts from accounting and their role in management and valuation, with additional topics from economics and statistics included as needed. Students gain a general understanding of financial and accounting concepts and principles as they relate to making basic management decisions for a firm in the areas of valuation, financial planning and investment.
  

  • FIN-660 Financial Modeling (3)

    This course provides students with decision-making skills derived from the ability to understand, perform, and interpret complex financial calculations and models used in finance. It presents the theory and practice of finance, emphasizing computer-based financial modeling, forecasting and the use of financial software applications to analyze the impacts of financial decisions. The course covers a variety of techniques, such as sensitivity and scenario analysis, optimization methods and Monte Carlo simulation. Crosslist: FIN-460 . Prerequisite/Concurrent: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-661 Behavioral Finance (3)

    This course examines the field of finance within the context of behavior theory. Students learn the underlying principles and latest research on decision-making under conditions of uncertainty in financial settings. Topics include the behavioral aspects of corporate finance, asset prices, and financial market anomalies. Crosslist: FIN-461 . Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: FIN-060  or FIN-614 .

  

  • FIN-665 Quantitative Methods in Finance I (3)

    In this course students gain an understanding of applied econometric models typically used in finance to become familiar with techniques for analyzing real-world financial and economic research. Prerequisite: STAT-614 . Prerequisite/Concurrent: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-666 Quantitative Methods in Finance II (3)

    This course is the second in a two-course sequence covering the application of statistical and quantitative methods of analysis to financial data. In this course, students extend their understanding of applied econometric models covered in Quantitative Methods in Finance I to time-series data limited dependent variable models and hazard models. Prerequisite: FIN-665 .
  

  • FIN-670 Alternative Assets (3)

    Developed through the lens of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association and oriented toward satisfying the academically-based professional certification requirements of the industry, this course is a deep dive into the theory, practice and application of alternative assets investment analysis and management. Crosslist: FIN-470 . Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-671 Advanced Financial Management (3)

    This course builds on the fundamental concepts introduced in FIN-614  or FIN-060 . Topics covered include capital budgeting; asset valuation, capital structure, payout policy, risk management, short-term asset management, and other topics appropriate to current financial issues. The course combines in-class lectures, online material, and case studies. Prerequisite/Concurrent: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-672 Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management (3)

    The purpose and operations of security markets; investment instruments and their characteristics; introduction to portfolio and capital market theory; theory of valuation, bonds, and the term structure of interest rates; options, commodity and financial futures; investment companies; and international investments. Prerequisite: FIN-614  or FIN-060 .
  

  • FIN-674 Derivatives and Risk Management (3)

    A comprehensive study of equity and debt-based futures with other derivative instruments given secondary consideration. Characteristics of exchanges and market participants. Pricing of derivative instruments. Hedging, speculative, and arbitrage applications of derivative instruments are analyzed. Prerequisite: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-677 Financial Statement Analysis (3)

    This course explores the use of financial statement information by investors and analysts as a basis for understanding a firm’s current performance, assessing its future prospect and valuing ownership and other claims. The focus is on use of accounting information for equity valuation, but other applications are also considered. Crosslist: ACCT-677 . Prerequisite: ACCT-607 , and FIN-614  or FIN-060 . 
  

  • FIN-681 Financial Intermediation in Emerging Markets (3)

    Nations are increasingly turning to free capital markets and to intermediate resources to finance their development. This course examines the specific contributions that financial markets and institutions can make in reaching their goals of economic growth and development. Prerequisite: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-683 Financial Institutions Management (3)

    (fall 2011: Modern Financial Markets and Institutions) This course introduces the institutions and markets that form the worldwide economic system of trading financial and real assets. Students cover concepts of financial theory; institutional detail; regulations; and the history of the financial markets. The course provides an overview of the financial world and the markets’ primary participants. Prerequisite: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-684 Fixed Income Analysis (3)

    This course provides an introduction to the analysis of bonds and other fixed-income assets. Students study liquidity management, risk measurement and management, and portfolio analysis and management. Prerequisite: FIN-672 .
  

  • FIN-685 Topics in Finance (1.5-3)

    Topics vary by section. Rotating topics of special interest in finance and related interdisciplinary topics. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • FIN-687 Corporate Governance (3)

    This course examines the relationship between managers and shareholders, and the processes and systems that investors use to ensure that managers act in the best interests of the firm’s owners. The course covers issues including boards of directors, executive compensation, ownership structure, etc., and uses a combination of readings and case studies. Crosslist: MGMT-687 . Prerequisite: FIN-614 .
  

  • FIN-690 Independent Study Project in Finance (1-6)

    Permission: instructor and department chair.
  

  • FIN-691 Internship in Finance (1-3)

    Grading: Pass/Fail only. Permission: instructor and department chair.
  

  • FIN-696 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • FIN-700 International Finance (3)

    Financial operation of the multinational firm, including the sources of funds, foreign investment decisions, and international transactions and taxation. Also included is a study of the related aspects of the international monetary system; foreign exchange markets; measuring and managing foreign exchange risk; and international banking. Crosslist: IBUS-700 . Prerequisite: FIN-614  or FIN-060 .
  

  • FIN-796 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.

Game Design (Graduate and Advanced Undergraduate Courses)
  

  • GAME-596 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.

Game Design (Graduate Courses)
  

  • GAME-600 The Design of Play (3)

    This course develops foundations in theory and skills in understanding the social sciences of play. Students analyze, critique, and design interactive experience and games. The understanding and design of fun and play is informed by a variety of disciplines that include psychology, art, and science. Usually Offered: Spring. Grading: A-F only.
  
  
  
  

  • GAME-612 Digital Art Tools and Techniques (3)

    Students create 2D digital art in a variety of styles and practice techniques for contemporary digital art making with professional art tools and software. Work is integrated into graphic presentations such as posters, videos, and interactive environments. Students are exposed to a variety of tools and develop the ability to identify solutions that best meet needs. Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only.
  
  

  • GAME-620 Making Meaningful Games (3)

    The focus of this course is the construction and evaluation of effective argument through play. Students apply foundations of game design and effective arguments construction. Students identify audience, medium, distribution, and production as they design and develop two games of rhetoric. Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: GAME-605  and GAME-615 .
  

  • GAME-625 Advanced Game Development (3)

    Advanced game development, including procedural content generation. This course gives students the tools and inspiration to create new types of computer games. The course exposes students to problems typically faced in game development and then explores solutions. Students create two prototypes and a final project employing emerging practices in game development. Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: GAME-615 .
  

  • GAME-672 Introduction to 3D Static Modeling (3)

    Students create 3D graphics environments and objects and practice specific techniques for contemporary digital art making. Work is integrated into graphic presentations such as posters, videos, and interactive environments. Students are exposed to a variety of 3D tools and develop the ability to identify software solutions that best meet needs. Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only.
  

  • GAME-682 3D Animation (3)

    In this course students utilize principles of animation in 3D art to create 3D characters and bring them to life within 3D games, films, and other productions. Through a series of character modeling and animation projects, students learn not only professional-level animation software, but also the workflow for 3D character creation and animation. Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: GAME-612 .
  

  • GAME-690 Independent Study in Game Design (1-6)

    Permission: instructor and program director.
  

  • GAME-691 Internship in Game Design (1-6)

    Permission: instructor and program director.
  

  • GAME-696 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.

Art: Graphic Design (Undergraduate Courses)
  

  • GDES-196 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • GDES-200 Visual Communication Design FA1 (3)

    Students engage in hands-on design practices, develop creative thinking strategies, and devise solutions to visual communication design challenges. The course familiarizes students with visual principles, essential software, and techniques that serve the basic designer needs. Students also develop fluency in the principles of visual language to form a basis of aesthetic judgment and develop methods of analysis and inquiry for creative thinking. Students combine in-studio practice with class critiques of work, software tutorials, and supporting lectures. Usually Offered: fall and spring.
  

  • GDES-210 Typography I: Visible Language for Publications and Media (3)

    Students explore creative, historical, theoretical, and applied principles of type. Through creative projects and exercises, students also explore the communicational impact of choosing typefaces, the expressive possibilities of type in static and kinetic media, as well as the foundations for hierarchy and composition for publication design. Students develop skills to enhance, clarify, and support meaning and the accessibility of typographic content. Combines creative studio practice with supporting readings, lectures, and software training. Usually Offered: fall and spring.
  

  • GDES-220 Digital and Emerging Media Design I (3)

    Students develop applied creative projects and acquire technical skills to become adept at essential software, design principles and practices for screen-based digital and emerging media. Students also learn foundations of front-end web coding such as HTML and CSS, and develop technical problem solving and organizational skills. Course lectures address the cultural backdrop of the Internet as it applies to design.
  

  • GDES-230 Graphic Design History: Visual Culture, Commerce, and Propaganda FA1 (3)

    Graphic images have been used from prehistory to the computer age. A lecture-discussion format presents the historical context for the graphic arts of calligraphy, typography, book design, diagramming, and illustration. Emphasis on the relationship of these applied arts to the fine arts, technology, and social history, as well as the application of this visual language to contemporary design problems. Usually Offered: fall, spring, and summer.
 

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