Pre-Registration Guidance: Fall 2024
Schedule & Course Information for Incoming Honors Students
Congratulations on your admission to the Honors College! This page is designed to provide helpful information as you identify honors courses that best match your personal and educational goals. We aim to ensure that all Honors College students are enrolled in at least two honors courses during their first semester. Here's what that means:
- If you are a first-time college student, one course will be a 1-credit seminar, US 1100. This course is designed to help you acclimate to college life and discover programs or services that can help you maximize your time at Texas State. Although other departments and programs—such as the music department and living-learning communities—offer specialized sections of this course, we highly recommend that all Honors College students elect to enroll in honors versions. US 1100 provides a great way to connect with faculty and students in the Honors College. To enroll, look for a section number that begins with "H."
- Your second course, worth 3 or 4 credit hours, will depend on your interests and preferences. This course may fit into one or more categories: 1) honors courses that satisfy general education / core curriculum requirements; 2) honors courses that count toward major or program requirements, often offered through other academic departments; 3) topical honors seminars, many of which provide credit toward other degree and program requirements.
All of the courses listed below are currently scheduled during the upcoming fall semester and will allow you to earn credit toward graduation in the Honors College. Scroll down to read descriptions, or click the following links to jump to a specific category:
► Honors courses in the general education curriculum
► Honors courses in other departments
► Honors seminars for students with unique skills and interests
Some of the courses listed below contain special curriculum information. Make sure to look for the following symbols as you browse:
* Prerequisite information
** Core curriculum information
*** Honors upper and lower credit options
^ other detail or curriculum information
Honors Courses that Satisfy General Education Requirements:
Please read the course description to learn about the class, and refer to the General Education Core Curriculum website for more information. Courses list in this section satisfy one area of the core curriculum.
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| COURSE & DESCRIPTION |
|---|
| BIO 1320 - Modern Biology Provides students with basic scientific and biological principles. Current problems in biology and the ethics of science are presented with perspectives of public policy from a scientific viewpoint. This course is not recommended for majors in the natural sciences, including biology. **Satisfies Life and Physical Sciences Component Code 030 |
| BIO 1330 - Functional Biology This course provides students with a strong foundation in cellular and molecular biology. Topics include biochemistry, energy metabolism, molecular bases of gene regulation and protein functions, cell division and control, and cell signaling. This course is required for all biology majors and is not recommended for non-science majors. **Satisfies Life and Physical Sciences Component Code 030 |
| BIO 1331 - Organismal Biology This course provides science majors with a foundation in organismal biology, Mendelian and population genetics, evolution and ecology. Topics include patterns of inheritance, genetics, evolution, speciation, phylogenetics, and behavioral population, community, and ecosystem ecology. This course is required for all biology majors and is not recommended for non-science majors. **Satisfies Life and Physical Sciences Component Code 030 |
| CHEM 1341 - General Chemistry I This initial lecture course in general chemistry for science-related majors covers atomic and molecular structure, bonding, states of matter, solutions, and descriptive chemistry. *Prerequisites: MATH 1315 or MATH 1317 or MATH 1319 or MATH 1329 or MATH 2321 or MATH 2417 or MATH 2471 any with a grade of "C" or better; or ACT Mathematics score of 24 or better; or SAT Mathematics score of 550 or better] or [Accuplacer College Mathematics score of 86 or better; or Compass College Algebra score of 46 or better; or Next-Generation Advanced Algebra and Functions Test of 263 or better. **Satisfies Life and Physical Sciences Component Code 030 |
| HON 2301A - Writing to Change the World This course examines communication through writing to promote positive change in the world. The goal is to enable students to communicate their own arguments appropriate to the subject, occasion and audience. Students will choose a global issue on which to focus their writing, and perform related community service. **Satisfies Communication Component Code 010 |
| HON 2304C - Nonviolence, Sustainability, and Social Change Nonviolence is often understood as the lack of violence, but this course will explore nonviolence as the presence of a certain discipline of discernment and empowerment that can be investigated in relation to emerging calls for sustainable development. Nonviolence as articulated by Martin Luther King, Jr. may be understood as a systematic endeavor to break cycles of violence, poverty, and racism. Students will investigate the ongoing force of such cycles and formulate effective understandings for subverting and reversing such trends. Since the cycles of violence, poverty, and racism tend to be degrading and destructive to human living conditions, a considered reversal of these cycles would offer productive contributions toward more sustainable human development. Therefore, a presentation of nonviolence in the context of sustainability would foster dialogue between two important areas of concern. **Satisfies Language, Philosophy & Culture Component Code 040 |
| HON 2305D - Honors Creative Arts This is an introductory course designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the creation and appreciation of diverse modes of expression through the visual and performing arts. This course utilizes active learning and may not be repeated for credit by taking ART 2313, DAN 2313, or MU 2313. **Satisfies Creative Arts Component Code 050 |
| HON 2306D - Witches, Whores, Murderers & Thieves: Capital Crime in Early America This course is an in-depth investigation into the social and legal culture of Early America through the study of microhistories. In this course, we will concentrate on a series of capital crimes, ranging from murder to witchcraft. The period will be the 17th century through 1850. **Satisfies American History Component Code 060 |
| HON 2306G - American Countercultures This course introduces students to major political, economic, social, and cultural developments in American history through the lens of “counterculture.” Although this term is usually associated with the 1960s, countercultures have flourished in the US since the mid-nineteenth century. As 60s guru Timothy Leary observed, countercultures bloom wherever and whenever members of a society embrace lifestyles, artistic expressions, and ways of thinking and being that diverge radically from the mainstream. Students will examine how countercultures from the transcendentalists to the hippies and beyond reflect the hopes and anxieties of younger generations and sometimes succeed in bringing about revolutionary change. **Satisfies American History Component Code 060 |
| HON 2307A - Democracy in America This course is a study of functions performed in the American system of government, understood through the framework of Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville's seminal study of American social and political life, the nature and distinctive character of modern democratic societies, and the problems and perils these societies confront. **Satisfies Government/Political Science Code 070 |
| HON 2307B - Contemporary Issues in American Politics Students will consider conflicts between liberty and equality with emphasis on how these principles are defined within the American system of constitutional government. Students will examine literature addressing race, gender, class, and sexuality in relation to events such as national elections, and to works in modern and contemporary political thought. **Satisfies Government/Political Science Code 070; OR may count as advanced political science |
| HON 2309A - Origins of Civilization By studying literary, mythic, and philosophical works selected with special attention to narratives about the origins of humanity and civilization, students will encounter a variety of explanations of human existence. The course will broaden students' perspectives and provide insight into the background of contemporary world cultures. **Satisfies Core Curriculum Option Area 094. |
| HON 2309J - Memoirs from Lives Off the Neurotypical Map To understand the growing neurologically differently abled/disabled, –ordered, and mentally different/ill population and our perceptions of them and ourselves, we will analyze memoirs and aesthetic works by this true fringe group and consider what being fundamentally different means, and how labels affect people in and out of the neurotypical majority. **Satisfies Core Curriculum Option Area 094. |
| HON 2309N - Don Quixote and the Birth of the Modern Novel What is truly modern about the novel, Don Quixote? How does it compare to the historical context of 17th century Europe? Students will examine the novel to uncover the lasting influence of Cervantes' groundbreaking work. **Satisfies Core Curriculum Option Area 094. ^Counts as SPAN 3301, 4380B, or 4390; or may count toward the Minor in Medieval and Renaissance Studies |
| HON 2309P - Honors American Literature This course examines representative authors and works from American literature. Readings will be assigned from various literary genres and will be situated critically within a historical, social, and cultural context. Students will engage with course material through research and creative inquiry. **Satisfies Core Curriculum Option Area 094. |
| MATH 2471 - Calculus I This is the first course in differential and integral calculus which stresses limits as well as the applications of calculus to the problems of science. **Satisfies Mathematics Component Code 020 ^Requires enrollment in MATH 2471 lab section HL1 |
| PHIL 1305 - Philosophy & Critical Thinking This course presents a study of universal philosophical problems and their solutions with a view toward developing clear thinking about knowledge, belief, and value. **Satisfies Language, Philosophy, and Culture Component Code 040 |
| PHIL 1320 - Ethics & Society This course provides a broad overview of ethics and emphasizes the development and application of principles of critical thinking and moral reasoning. Students will examine relevant social problems—including environmental ethics, ethics in business, professions, technology and sports— and global problems, such as poverty, minority rights, and stem cell research. **Satisfies Language, Philosophy, and Culture Component Code 040; a REQUIRED course for business students |
| PHYS 1430 - Mechanics Using active inquiry and small group discussion, we will master the physics of motion. Since we all move in space and time, we all have relevant experience to bring to the class. In the Honors section, we will develop deeper problem solving skills and learn how to get involved in undergraduate research at Texas State. This course covers the principles of classical mechanics through problem solving and laboratory investigations. PHYS 1430, PHYS 2425, and PHYS 2435 are designed for students majoring and minoring in physics and/or other disciplines within the College of Science and Engineering. **Satisfies Life & Physical Sciences Component Code 030 ^Recommended co-enrollment with MATH 2471-H01 and HL1 (Calculus I and lab) ^Requires enrollment in lab section of PHYS 1430 |
| POSI 2310 - Principles of American Government This course surveys the principles of political science, the American system of government, and the origins and development of the constitutions of the United States and Texas. It satisfies the legislative requirements for teacher certification. **Satisfies Government/Political Science Component Code 070 |
| POSI 2320 - Functions of American Government This course studies the functions performed in the American system of government, both national and state, within the framework of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions. **Satisfies Government/Political Science Component Code 070 |
Honors Courses in Other Departments and Programs:
Courses in this section usually count toward specific requirements in a major, degree, or program. Please read each description for more information. All courses listed below will earn 3 credits toward graduation in the Honors College. You can also click here to find the course requirements and recommended course sequence for your intended major by exploring the undergraduate catalog.
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| COURSE & DESCRIPTION |
|---|
| BIO 3442 - Virology This course studies the structure, multiplication and genetics of bacterial, plant, and animal viruses. The role of viruses in human and plant disease. (WI) *BIO 2400 and BIO 2450 both with grades of “C” or better. |
| BLAW 3301 - Legal Environment of Business The course surveys basic features of the American legal system and legal aspects of business transactions. Topics include generally the nature and sources of law, court systems and procedures, torts, contracts, agency, and ethics. ^Required course for business majors. |
| CHEM 2341 - Organic Chemistry I This course will entail a classical treatment of the fundamental concepts and key applications in Organic Chemistry which focuses on the unique chemistry of the element carbon. The curriculum is organized by the study of families of organic compounds distinguished by their characteristic functional groups. Structure/Property relationships will be demonstrated through the study of reactions representative of each type of functional group. Ultimately the reactions will be understood via step-wise mechanisms that conform to the controlling thermodynamic (energy) changes and rates of reaction. Throughout the course the special topic of Supramolecular Chemistry will be introduced with each functional group studied. Supramolecular Chemistry is defined as “Chemistry Beyond the Molecule” that involves molecular aggregates arising from non-bonded molecular attractions. Elegant examples of Supramolecular Chemistry include molecular recognition, self-assembly, self-replication, molecular devices and many other awe-inspiring applications found in biological and synthetic systems. |
| CS 1428 - Foundations of Computer Science Introductory course for computer science majors, minors and others desiring technical introduction to computer science. Contains overview of history and structure of the digital computer, including binary data representation. Problem solving, algorithm development, structured programming, good coding style, and control structures of C++ are emphasized. ^Requires enrollment in CS 1428 lab section HL1 |
| MATH 2471 - Calculus I This is the first course in differential and integral calculus which stresses limits as well as the applications of calculus to the problems of science. **Satisfies Mathematics Component Code 020 ^Requires enrollment in MATH 2471 lab section HL1 |
| POSI 2310 - Principles of American Government This course surveys the principles of political science, the American system of government, and the origins and development of the constitutions of the United States and Texas. It satisfies the legislative requirements for teacher certification. **Satisfies Government/Political Science Component Code 070 |
| POSI 2320 - Functions of American Government This course studies the functions performed in the American system of government, both national and state, within the framework of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions. **Satisfies Government/Political Science Component Code 070 |
| PS 3342 - African Politics This course examines the government and politics of African political systems in light of the traditional political cultures, the colonial and post-colonial experience and the diversity of regime experimentation with special attention to the struggle for genuine democracy. ^Counts toward Minor in International Studies; or counts toward Minor in Diversity Studies; or counts toward Minor in African American Studies; or counts as Group IV “Comparative Politics” for Majors in Political Science; or counts as Middle East/African Studies Elective for the B.A. in International Studies with Middle East/African Studies Concentration |
Honors Seminars for Students with Unique Skills or Interests:
Topical seminars in this section are most suited to students with some prior background knowledge in the subject area and a clear interest in the course topic. Please read the course description for additional details about prerequisites, course substitutions, and degree credit. You can also click here to read more about the pathways to graduate in the Honors College.
Note: If you are viewing this page on a mobile device, try using landscape mode to see the full course description.
| COURSE & DESCRIPTION |
|---|
| HON 3380C - Entrepreneurial Design Students will focus on the interconnection between entrepreneurial thinking and innovation. They will develop innovation-driven venture skills and will gain open and critical thinking skills with a focus on community, understanding of calculated risk and the initiative to follow-through. ^May also count as elective in Communication Design |
| HON 3382B - Narratives in Psychology, Health and Illness This course explores the fields of narrative psychology and narrative medicine. Narrative psychology examines how stories and storytelling give significance to people’s experiences. The course focuses on narrative representations of health, illness, and healing written by patients, physicians, and others to understand the connection between the individual and their social context. ^Counts as Psychology elective |
| HON 3382C - Emotional Intelligence: Applications for Life and Well-Being In this course students examine the theory, research, and practice related to emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence has far-reaching implications on health, mental health, education, the workplace, relationships, and more. Students learn the components, theory, and teaching of emotional intelligence and how it impacts a variety of behaviors and outcomes. ^Counts as Psychology elective |
| HON 3390J - Don Quijote and the Birth of the Modern Novel An in-depth study of Cervantes' Don Quijote, its literary antecedents, and its reception through the twentieth century. For core curriculum credit, please see HON 2309N. ^Counts as SPAN 3301 (Literatures of Spain I), SPAN 4352 (Don Quijote), or SPAN 4390; or may count as Advanced English Elective |
| HON 3392V - Elementary Number Theory This course is the systematic study of problems using definitions and logical deductions from these definitions. Elementary number theory provides an ideal medium for such a study since all basic types of mathematical proofs occur in a setting requiring no prior background. ***May also be taken as HON 2302A for general education credit credit |
| HON 3395B - Integral Ecology What is the future of humanity on earth? How do the intuitive awareness of the oneness of life, the interdependence of its multiple manifestations, and its cycles of change affect that future? How does science affect our attitude toward the natural world? ^Counts as advanced Philosophy elective; or may count as advanced Biology (Fall 2018 and earlier only) |
| HON 3396B - Writing for Stage This course develops the basic professional techniques and skills used in writing for the writing and theatrical stage. Students analyze scripts and perform practical exercises in story and character development, study dramatic play and structure, and develop a full-length dramatic play. Weekly readings and critiques assist writers in refining their scripts. ^Counts as advanced Theater elective; or may count as advanced English Group D |
| HON 3397J - Extraordinary Leadership: Ownership & Influence This course is designed to elevate the performance of leaders. Students are challenged to develop their potential in seminar-style sessions covering leadership definitions, theory, frameworks, and the global application of skills. Students explore their behaviors, motivations, values, influences, and character in an effort to increase self-awareness and to think critically. ^Counts as MGT 3303; Counts toward the Minor in Innovation and Entrepreneurship under the “Leadership” domain. |
| HON 3399H - Southern Gothic Storytelling: An Analysis of Text and Performance At its best, theatre will provoke thought and inspire change. Many productions nonetheless depict agreeable themes and characters to like-minded audiences, rendering critical and self-reflective aspects of the medium ineffective. However, one theatrical genre—Southern Gothic—effectively acknowledges and addresses this concern. By examining Southern Gothic theatre from analytical, performative, and historical perspectives, this course will showcases the genre's influences and impact, and it will explore how different contexts and cultures have shaped performance and interpretive decisions. Students will thereby discover how the Southern Gothic genre aims to honor and criticize the very culture it represents. ^Counts as Advanced Theatre elective. |
| HON 3399T - Intellectual Property Law in Society This course examines the structure and functions of government together with the laws supporting and regulating intellectual property, namely patents, trade secrets, copyrights, and trademarks. The relations between intellectual property policies and societal goals and regulations are also explored to help students develop an understanding of intellectual property law in a context related to their field of study. ^Counts as TBD |
| HON 3399W - The Art of Bob Dylan: Explorations of Method and Performance This course takes a critical look at the work of Bob Dylan, including his contributions as an author, musical performer, painter, sculptor, actor, and recent recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature. By examining his place in American history, his evolving identities, and his curious methodologies, students will better undestand American art and literature in popular culture. The course will explore intertexuality, appropriation, and originality through Dylan's work. |
| PS 3342 - African Politics This course examines the government and politics of African political systems in light of the traditional political cultures, the colonial and post-colonial experience and the diversity of regime experimentation with special attention to the struggle for genuine democracy. ^Counts toward Minor in International Studies; or counts toward Minor in Diversity Studies; or counts toward Minor in African American Studies; or counts as Group IV “Comparative Politics” for Majors in Political Science; or counts as Middle East/African Studies Elective for the B.A. in International Studies with Middle East/African Studies Concentration |