Academic Programs
Programs in Social Sciences
Chair: Raymond B. Wrabley, PhD
Majors
Minors
- Economics
- Geography
- History
- Political Science
- Sociology
Division Policies and Requirements
- Candidates for graduation in social sciences must have earned a minimum of 120 credits. Of the 120, a maximum of 15 credits may be earned in non-Arts and Science programs of the University (e.g., education) or in courses offered for the convenience of students with particular professional goals (e.g., chemistry for nursing).
- The final 30 credits MUST be earned at Pitt-Johnstown.
- Degree candidates must have a grade point average of 2.000 (C average) or higher in all work at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown or at the University's other campuses.
- The courses required for a major must be completed with a minimum grade point average of 2.000.
- A satisfactory level of competence in English composition must be demonstrated by the successful completion of ENGCMP 0005 Composition 1 or ENGCMP 0002 Freshman Writing Seminar, and English Composition 0006 Composition 2.
- Students may earn no more than 2 credits in physical education per term, to a maximum of 8 during their entire scholastic career at Pitt-Johnstown. Only the first four physical education credits are counted as being in arts and sciences; any additional credits are considered as non-arts and sciences.
- There is no second language requirement for social sciences division majors. However, it should be noted that many graduate programs require a reading knowledge of second languages or statistical analysis. Therefore, students planning graduate study should seriously consider course work in French or Spanish and statistics.
- All students must complete the general education requirements in addition to major requirements by earning at least 12 credits in each of the three divisions of arts and sciences: the humanities, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. The 12 credits in each division must be distributed in the manner listed earlier in this bulletin.
Social Sciences Internships
A limited number of students majoring in the social sciences may serve an internship of as many as 12 credits that provides field experience in some aspect of the students' career interests. Students interested in serving an internship during their junior or senior year should discuss this with their academic advisor. Such internship credits under SOCSCI 1910 Internship must be in addition to all requirements for the major and related areas. Internships are graded S/U only.
Academic Minor
In addition to an academic major, a student may elect to pursue a minor in another academic discipline. The specific requirements for each minor are established in the individual academic disciplines and require the completion of a minimum of 18 credits of course work.
Program Requirements
Business Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Faculty: Neelima Bhatnagar; Cristina DeDiana, Skip Glenn, John McGrath; Greg Petyak, Douglas Reed; James Teague; Travis Stouffer; Deborah Zakrzwski, CPA
Required Courses
- General Requirements (17 credits minimum)
- Computer Science 0015, 0016
- Mathematics 0121 or 0221
- Psychology 0200
- Statistics 1040
- English Writing 1192
- Division of Social Sciences requirements (15 credits)
One from each category:
- Anthropology
- Geography
- History
- Political Science 0206, 0302, 0310, 0501
- Sociology 0070, 0100
- Business Core (24 credits)
- Economics 0105 0115
- Business 0115, 0300, 0400, 0500, 0510, 1010
- Economics Electives (3 credits)
- Any Economics course (except 0105, 0115)
- Business concentrations:
- Accounting
- Financial Accounting Track
- BUS 0200, 1120, 1130, 1140
any three of the following:
- BUS 1110, 1146, 1151, 1155, 1160, 1171, 1190, 1330, 1570
- Managerial Accounting Track
any three of the following:
- BUS 1110, 1140, 1286, 1330, 1355, 1356, 1520
- Economics
- Any six economics courses above the introductory level in addition to the required three economics courses listed under general business requirements.
- Finance
any four of the following:
- BUS 1270, 1315, 1330, 1370, 1486, ECON 0281, 0501, 1141, 1151
- Management
- General Management Track
- BUS 1510, 1520, 1530, 1540
- any three upper-level business courses taken under advisement
- Human Resources Track
at least three of the following:
- BUS 1515, 1525, 1545, 1686, PSY 1636
- Management Infromation Systems
BUS 1410, 1420, 1426, 1435
any two of the following:
BUS
1411, 1412, 1415, 1425, 1428, 1441, 1445, 1448, 1489, CS 0417
F. Marketing
BUS 1520, 1535, 1540, 1560
any three of the following:
BUS 1575, 1581, 1582, 1583, 1584, 1585, 1586, 1587, 1670, 1671
Economics Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Faculty: George Berger, Guo Kai, Thomas McGahagan
To graduate with a baccalaureate degree in economics, a student must complete both the introductory (ECON 0105 and 0115) and intermediate (ECON 1101 and 1111) sequences in micro-and macroeconomics, as well as six other major courses in economics. Completion of the 0105-0115 introduction sequence is a prerequisite to any major course. Business courses may be taken as electives outside the economics major, but do not fulfill major course requirements in economics.
Majors must also complete STAT 1040 Statistics for Business and Economics and an acceptable calculus course (MATH 0121) or sequence (MATH 0221/0231). These should be completed by the end of the sophomore year. Majors who are interested in pursuing graduate study in economics or a related field are advised to complete a three-term sequence in calculus (MATH 0221/0231/0241).
Environmental Studies Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Director: Gregory E. Faiers
- Core requirements
- ENVSTD 0100 Introduction to Environmental Studies
- ENVSTD 1700 Senior Seminar in Environmental Studies
- SOCSCI 1910 Internship
- Environmental Policy
Select seven courses from the following. A minimum of 3 departments must be represented with a maximum of four courses from any one department.
- Biology 1535
- Economics 1370
- English Literature 0345
- Geography 0320, 1160, 1190, 1230, 1260
- History 1415
- Phil 0120
- Political Science 1245
- Sociology 1113, 1380
- or other electives as approved
- Environmental Science
Select eight courses from the following. A minimum of three departments must be represented with a maximum of four courses from any one department.
- Biology 0080 or preferably 0110–0111 and 0120–0121, 1110, 1130, 1158, 1171, 1175, 1515, 1520, 1525, 1530, 1535
- Chemistry 0080, 0111–0113, 0112–0114, 0325
- Civil Engineering Technology 1140, 1141, 1142
- Geography 0210, 1200, 1210, 1220, 1240
- Geology 0015, 0024, 0083, 0086, 1105, 1106, 1139
- Physics 0090, 0093, 0140-0141, 0142-0143
- or other electives as approved
- Methodology and tools
students must complete at least two of the following
- Civil Engineering Technology 1122, 0020
- Engineering Technology 0011, 0023
- English Writing 1192
- French 0212
- Geography 1425, 1440
- Sociology 0300
- German 0212
- Spanish 0212
- Statistics 1020
- other methodology options as approved
Geography Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Faculty: Gregory Faiers, Ola Johansson, William Kory, Ahmad Massasati, Mary P. Lavine
Students electing Geography as a major must earn a minimum of 30 credits in Geography distributed as follows:
- Geography 0210, 0810, 0420, and 0100 or 0610
- Six additional Geography courses, at least three of which must be upper-level (1000 series), distributed so that at least one course is represented in each of the three concentrations below :
- Urban/Economic/Population: Geography 1160, 1190, 1600, 1610
- Physical/Environmental: Geography 1200, 1210, 1220, 1230, 1240, 1260
- Regional/Cultural: Geography 0310, 0320, 0325, 1130, 1300
NOTE: Geography 1410, 1800, 1810, 1820 may be substituted for one of these courses with department approval.
- An internship in geography (SCOSCI 1910 Internship) may be counted as a free elective and taken on a H/S/U grading option only. The number of credits will be determined by the instructor.
- Methodology: Soc 0300 or Stat 1020
History Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Faculty: Robert Matson, Paul Newman, Katherine Reist, Veronica Wilson
Students electing history as a major must earn 30 credits in history, including:
- History 0120 and 0130
- History 0610 or 0620
- History 0424 or 0425
- History 1002
- Five additional courses in history, at least four must be 1000-level, including:
- At least one additional course in American history from the following: HIST 0610, 0620, 1013, 1400, 1405, 1409, 1410, 1411, 1413, 1414, 1415, 1416, 1417, 1430, 1520, 1523, 1530, 1605, 1682, or 1810 as appropriate.
- At least one additional course in European history from the following: HIST 1113, 1127, 1170, 1342, 1381, 1385, or 1810 as appropriate.
- At least one course in non-Western history or another history from the following: HIST 0424, 0425, 0602, 0753, 1171, 1505, 1521, 1600, 1613, 1620, 1679, or 1810 as appropriate.
- Methodology: Select one option. Soc 0300 or Stat 1020 or any Second Language at the Intermediate 2 level.
Justice Administration and Criminology Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Political Science Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Faculty: James Alexander, Christopher Cook, Raymond Wrabley
Students electing political science as a major must earn a minimum of 30 credits in political science—including at least four subfield introductory courses selected from Political Science 0206, 0210, 0302, 0310, 0501, 0601—and PS 1700 Political Science Research, taken in the senior year.
Methodology: Soc 0300, or Stat 1020, or Stat 1040
Religious Studies Specialization
Coordinator: Robert Matson
Courses in religious studies are offered as elective distribution courses to supplement study in other academic fields. Several religious studies courses are cross-listed in the history department. Course offerings are designed as appropriate background for pre-seminary students. Students who wish to complete a full four-year undergraduate degree in religious studies may relocate to the Pittsburgh campus.
Social Sciences Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Considerable flexibility is afforded to students in the social sciences who wish to concentrate their studies in two social sciences fields without necessarily completing a full major in either, or who wish to concentrate their studies around a theme (a self-designed concentration). These students would then pursue a degree in social sciences, which requires completion of a social science methodology course selected from Sociology 0300, Statistics 1020, or Statistics 1040 and a minimum of 54 credits in the Division of Social Sciences under one of two options:
Option A
A minimum of 15 credits in each of two social science non-business fields (such as anthropology and history, or sociology and political science, or economics and geography) and the remaining 24 credits in the other social sciences fields (except business or internships), with at least one course in each.
Option B
A minimum of 24 credits in social sciences courses clustered around a designated theme. The theme and appropriate courses are chosen by mutual consent of the student and advisor. The remaining 30 credits must be distributed among the social sciences fields (except business or internships), with at least one course in each. Students should note that interdisciplinary self-designed majors may be constructed across divisions as well.
Sociology Major
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Faculty: Jeremiah Coldsmith, Ross Kleinstuber, Daniel Santoro
Students electing Sociology as a major must earn a minimum of 30 credits in Sociology, including:
- Sociology 0100, 0300, 0400 and 1700 (Senior Seminar). Sociology 0100 is a prerequisite for all higher-numbered courses.
- Two core courses, one course from each of two categories: social organization and society and self. A list of courses included in these categories may be obtained from any sociology faculty member.
Certificate Programs
Business
Certificate Program
The Business Certificate program is designed primarily for part-time adult students admitted through adult education. It provides a 30-credit, career-oriented course of study for students who may eventually pursue a Bachelor of Arts in business.
The Business certificate program has two components:
- Distribution Component (15 credits):
- Computer Science 0081
- Communication 0052
- English Composition 0005
- Mathematics 0001
- Psychology 0200
- Business Core Courses (15 credits):
- BUS 0115 Accounting
Principles
- BUS 0500 Principles of Management
- BUS 0510 Principles of Marketing
- BUS 1520 Organizational Behavior
- Business Elective
- While many of these courses are frequently offered in the evening, students in the Business Certificate program may have to complete several of their course requirements in daytime class sessions.
- Students may transfer as many as 15 approved equivalency credits from other institutions, provided that at least 15 required course credits (including at least three of the Business core courses) are completed at Pitt-Johnstown and at least a 2.000 overall GPA is maintained.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Certificate Program
This certificate requires the completion of 18 credits, consisting of five core courses and one elective, with no grade lower than a C in each class.
The GIS certificate program has two components:
- Core Courses (15 credits):
- GEOG 0420 - Cartography
- GEOG 1420 – GIS Special Projects
- GEOG 1425 – Remote Sensing
- GEOG 1440 – Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- STAT 1020 – Social Statistics or comparable statistics course
- Comparable Courses: MATH 0212 or 1153, PSY 0270, STAT 1040
- Elective (3 credits):
- Choose one from the pre-approved list below or in consultation with the cdertificate program advisor. This course should be completed prior to beginning the “GIS Special Projects” course so that its content and perspectives can be drawn upon for the final project.
- BIOL 1110, 1130, 1515, 1520
- BUS 1410
- CET 1140
- GEOG 1160, 1230, 1240, 1610, 1061, 1105, 1139
- SOC 0440, 1113
International Studies
Certificate
Director: Christopher Cook
The International Studies Certificate, which requires a minimum of 31 credits, is a multidisciplinary program that is flexibly structured to complement any major. It is designed to promote the interests of both the career-oriented student and the student whose expectations of a liberal arts education include enhancement of one's capacity to understand and enjoy the world.
For the student who already has made a career choice such as business or journalism, the International Studies Certificate provides the opportunity to demonstrate flexibility, a breadth of perspective, and interests that are increasingly attractive to prospective employers.
As a complement to any major, the International Studies Certificate facilitates entry into such careers as the U.S. government (both domestic and foreign service), private interest groups, national and international service agencies, journalism, and international business.
The program is also excellent preparation for admission to such highly marketable specialized graduate programs as international management, international communications, foreign service, international business, and international studies. More information about placement and about the International Studies Certificate program or study abroad is available from the director of international studies.
Students focus their study by selecting one of the following certificate programs:
1. International Studies – General (Focus: Europe and Modern Asia)
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools required (3-14 credits)
- Foreign Language - 2nd year competency required
- French 0212 or Spanish 0212 or equivalency
- Research Methods
Core Courses from Social Sciences (15 credits)
- Political and Historical Context (at least 3 credits)
- PS 0302 Comparative Politics
- PS 0501 World Politics
- Hist 1171 The World Since 1945
- Hist 1385 Europe Since 1945
- Geographic and Sociocultural Context (at least 3 credits)
- Geog 0100 Economic Geography
- Geog 0210 Physical Geography
- Geog 0810 Earth and People
- Hist 1170 Renaissance and Reformation
- Relgst 1602 Religions of the World
- Soc 0340 Political Sociology
- Soc 0520 Social Movements
- Advanced/Upper-level Courses (at least 9 credits)
- Econ 0501 Intro to International Economics
- PS 1507 International Organization
- PS 1515 American Foreign Policy
- Or appropriate other courses upon advisement
Area Specialization (9 credits from Humanities or Social Sciences)
Specialization courses must be selected from at least two separate fields, and may be substituted partially or entirely by: study abroad and/or summer study in a specialized field at another university
Geographic Areas
- Asia
- Hist 0425 Modern East Asia
- Hist 1521 The Pacific War
- Hist 1600 Postwar Japan
- Europe
- Hist 1381 Europe 1914-1945
- Hist 1385 Europe Since 1945
- Phil 0213 History of Modern Philosophy
- Britain
- Englit 1116 Chaucer
- Englit 1120 Restoration and 18th Century Literature
- Englit 1158 19th Century British Novel
- Englit 1182 Victorian Literature
- Hist 1300 England to 1689
- France
- Fr 0380 Modern French Novel
- Fr 1083 Special Topics in Literature (English)
- Germany
- Hist 1130 Modern Germany 1866-1945
- Ger 0455 Germanic Culture and Civilization 1650-Present
- Russia/Eastern Europe
- Geog 1300 Russia and Eurasian States
- Hist 1342 Russia Since 1860
- Southern Europe
- Span 0451 Seminar in Cervantes
- Span 1841 Don Quixote and the Novel
- Or other appropriate courses upon advisement
STUDY ABROAD (6-12 credits) Strongly encouraged
2. International Studies – General (Focus: Global South)
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools: (3-14 credits)
- Foreign Language – 2nd year competency required
- French 0212 or Spanish 0202 or equivalency
- Research Methods
Core Courses from Social Sciences (15 credits)
- Political and Historical Context (at least 3 credits)
- PS 0310 Comparative Developing Systems
- Geographic and Sociocultural Context (at least 3 credits)
- Geog 0100 Economic Geography
- Geog 0610 Urban Development
- Geog 0810 Earth and People
- Geog Geography of the Middle East
- Soc 0340 Political Sociology
- Soc 0520 Social Movements
- Anth 0800 Intro to Cultural Anthropology
- Relgst 1602 Religions of the World
- Advanced/Upper-level Courses (at least 9 credits)
- Geog 1160 Population Geography
- Geog 1230 Resource Management
- Geog 1240 Water Resources
- Econ 0501 Intro to International Economics
- PS 1356 Government & Politics of Africa
- PS 1507 International Organization
- Or appropriate other courses upon advisement
Area Specialization (9 credits from Humanities or Social Sciences)
Specialization courses must be selected from at least two separate fields, and may be substituted partially or entirely by: study abroad and/or summer study in a specialized field at another university
Geographic Areas
- Asia
- Hist 0424 Classical East Asia
- Hist 0425 Modern East Asia
- Hist 1613 Peoples Republic of China
- Hist 1620 The Vietnam War
- Latin America
- Span 1844 Contemporary Latin American Literature
- Span 1846 Hispanic Drama in Translation
- Hist 1679 Mexico
- Africa
- Geog 0320 Geography of Africa
- PS 1356 Government & Politics of Africa
- Middle East
- Geog Geography of the Middle East
- Or appropriate other courses upon advisement
Study Abroad (6-12 credits) Strongly encouraged
3. International Studies – General (Focus: Thematic)
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools: (3-14 credits)
- Foreign Language – second year competency required
- French 0212 or Spanish 0212 or equivalency
- Research Methods
Core Courses from Social Sciences (15 credits)
- Political and Historical Context (at least 3 credits)
- PS 0302 Comparative Politics
- PS 0501 World Politics
- Hist 1171 The World Since 1945
- Hist 1385 Europe Since 1945
- Geographic and Sociocultural Context (at least 3 credits)
- Geog 0100 Economic Geography
- Geog 0210 Physical Geography
- Geog 0810 Earth and People
- Hist 1170 Renaissance and Reformation
- Soc 0340 Political Sociology
- Soc 0520 Social Movements
- Or appropriate other courses upon advisement
Area Specialization (9 credits from Humanities or Social Sciences)
Specialization courses must be selected from at least two separate fields, and may be substituted partially or entirely by: study abroad and/or summer study in a specialized field at another university.
- Thematic Areas – These and other topics may be the focus of a thematic specialization such as: Environmental studies, globalization, global warming, comparative thought, comparative literature, human rights, race and ethnicity, labor conflicts, health care, women’s issues, etc.
For details consult with the International Studies Advisor
Study Abroad: (6-12 credits) Strongly encouraged
4. International Studies - Business
Total Credits Required: 39
Tools (6 credits)
- Foreign Language – Any foreign language (second year competency required)
- French 0212 or Spanish 0212 or equivalency
Core Courses from Social Sciences (12-18 credits)
- Political & Historical Context: (3-9 credits)
- PS 0302 Comparative Politics
- PS 0310 Comparative Developing Systems
- PS 0501 World Politics
- PS 1356 The Government & Politics of Africa
- Hist 0424 Classical East Asia
- Hist 0425 Modern East Asia
- Hist 1385 Europe since 1945
- Hist 1600 Postwar Japan
- Geographic-Sociocultural Context: (3-9 credits)
- Hist 1613 People’s Republic of China
- Hist 1679 Mexico
- Geog 0100 Economic Geography
- Geog 1300 Russia and Eurasian States
- Geog 0325 Geography of Europe
- Soc 1113 Environmental Sociology
- Soc 1517 Global Political Economy
- Advanced Courses: (9 credits)
- Bus 1583 International Marketing
- Econ 0501 International Economics
- Business (Business course taken abroad) under advisement
- Business (Business course taken abroad) under advisement
- Business (Business course taken abroad) under advisement
Study Abroad: (6-12 credits) Spend one semester abroad
Study Abroad Program
5. International Studies – French
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools (12 credits)
- French Language
- FR 0211 Intermediate I
- FR 0212 Intermediate II
- FR 0355 French Conversation
- FR 0356 Written French 1
Core Courses (9 credits)
- French Culture & Literature
- FR 0320 Intro to Civilization
- FR 0321 Intro to French Literature
- FR 0250 French Business 1
- FR 1019 20th Century Topics
Area Specialization & Context (9-12 credits)
- Humanities
- FA 1412 Realism & Impressionism
- Commrc 0052 Public Speaking
- Commrc 0083 Intercultural Communication
- Social Sciences
- PS 0302 Comparative Politics
- PS 1517 Global Political Economy
- Geog 0325 Geography of Europe
- Hist 1113 Medieval Europe
- Hist 1831 Europe 1914-45
- Hist 1835 Europe since 1945
- Anth 0800 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
- Soc 1670 Identify and Culture
Study Abroad: (6-12 credits) Spend one semester abroad
Study Abroad Program
6. International Studies – Geography
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools: (9-12 credits)
- Foreign Language (French, German, Spanish or any other language)
- Intermediate I
- Intermediate II
- Conversation
Core Courses from Social Sciences
- Geography (12 credits)
- Required:
- Geog 0810 Earth and People
- One regional course:
- Geog 0320 Geography of Africa
- Geog 0325 Geography of Europe
- Geog 1300 Russia and Eurasian States
- Two thematic courses:
- Geog 0100 Economic Geography
- Geog 1130 Political Geography
- Geog 1160 Population Geography
- Geog 1220 Natural Hazards
- Society (6-9 credits)
- Anth 0800 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
- Econ 0501 International Economics
- PS 0302 Comparative Politics
- PS 0310 Comparative Developing Systems
- PS 0501 World Politics
- PS 1356 The Government & Politics of Africa
- Hist 0425 Modern East Asia
- Hist 1171 The World Since 1945
- Hist 1602 Religions of the World
- Culture (3 – 6 credits)
- Anth 0800 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
- Econ 0501 International Economics
- PS 0302 Comparative Politics
- PS 0310 Comparative Developing Systems
- PS 0501 World politics
- PS 356 The Government & Politics of Africa
- Hist 0425 Modern East Asia
- Hist 1171 The World Since 1945
- Hist 1602 Religions of the World
Study Abroad: (6-12 credits) Strong encouraged
Study Abroad Program
7. International Studies – Spanish
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools: (12 credits)
- Spanish Language
- SPAN 0211 Intermediate Spanish I
- SPAN 0212 Intermediate Spanish II
- SPAN 0320 Conversation
- SPAN 0325 Grammar & Composition
Core Courses: (9 credits)
- Hispanic Culture & Literature
- SPAN 0350 Spanish & Civilization
- SPAN 0351 Latin American Civilization
- SPAN 0355 Intro to Hispanic Literature I
- SPAN 0356 Intro to Hispanic Literature II
- SPAN 0453 Seminar in Hispanic Poetry
- SPAN 0463 Seminar in Golden Age Drama
- SPAN 1193 Literary Translation
- SPAN 1444 Latin American Topics
- SPAN 1445 Seminar in Latin American Literature and Culture
Area Specialization & Context: (9-12 credits) Humanities or Social Sciences
- Courses outside Spanish (students need to take a minimum of 9 credits outside Spanish
- Hist 1679 Mexico
- Commrc 0052 Public Speaking
- Commrc 0083 Intercultural Communication
- Spanish Literature in Translation (taught in English)
- SPAN 1841 Don Quixote and The Novel
- SPAN 1843 Contemporary Hispanic Literature (taught in English)
- SPAN 1844 Contemporary Latin American Literature
Study Abroad: (6-12 credits) Spend one semester abroad.
Study Abroad Program
8. International Studies – Media Communication
Total Credits Required: 36
Tools: (6-14 credits)
- Foreign Language – Any foreign language (second year competency required)
- French 0212 or Spanish 0212 or equivalency
- Research Methods
- Soc 0300 Social Research Methods
- Commrc 0700 Communication Research Methods
- Commrc 1124 Rhetorical Criticism
Core Courses: (15 credits)
- Communication Courses (9 credits)
- Commrc 0083 Intercultural Communication
- Commrc 0320 Mass Communication Process
- Commrc 1139 Media Criticism
- Media Courses (6 credits)
- Englit 0530 Film Analysis
- Journl 0053 Introduction to Journalism
- Journl 1147 The Media and the Law
- Journl 1140 Photography in Communications
- Journl 1137 Magazine Writing
- Journl 1132 Reporting
- Journl 1134 Feature Writing
- PS 1209 Media, Politics, and the Law
Area Specialization (9-12 credits)
- Africa – Social Sciences
- Geog 0320 Geography of Africa
- PS 1356 The Government & Politics of Africa
- Africa – Humanities
- Engwrt 0500 Creative Nonfiction Writing
- Asia – Social Sciences
- Hist 0424 Classical East Asia
- Hist 0425 Modern East Asia
- Hist 1600 Post War Japan
- Hist 1613 People’s Republic of China
- Hist 1620 The Vietnam War
- Europe – Humanities
- Eglit 0055 Survey of English Literature 1
- Englit 0056 Survey of English Literature 2
- Span 1846 Hispanic Drama in Translation
- Europe – Social Sciences
- Hist 1381 Europe 1914-1945
- Hist 1130 Modern Germany 1866-1945
- Hist 1350 East Central Europe
- Geog 1300 Russia and Eurasian States
- Geog 0325 Geography of Europe
- Or appropriate other courses upon advisement
- Latin America – Social Sciences
- PS 1320 Latin American Politics
- Latin America – Humanities
- SPAN 1844 Contemporary Latin American Literature
- Or appropriate other courses upon advisement
Programs in Nursing and Health Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Our undergraduate program combines the latest in clinical theory with traditional nursing values that emphasize holistic patient care. The distinct advantage of a four-year program is that it gives students the opportunity to combine a strong theoretical base of biological and behavioral sciences with a foundation in the liberal arts. The BSN Program at Pitt-Johnstown offers the same curriculum as the School of Nursing in Oakland, accredited by The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), One DuPont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC, 20036.
Purpose
The purpose of the baccalaureate program is to prepare a professional nurse whose practice is based upon nursing science, related sciences and the arts in order to promote, restore, and maintain the health of human beings. Graduates of the program are generalists with the necessary base for graduate education and continuing professional development.
High school graduates are directly admitted to the freshman class of the four-year, full-time pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing program. Pitt-Johnstown students may apply for internal transfer to the freshman class. Students who are enrolled in other colleges and universities may apply for external transfer to the freshman class.
Description
Education for the practice of professional nursing demands a substantial knowledge of nursing, using the behavioral and biological sciences as a theoretical base. Throughout the program, nursing courses are taken concurrently with courses in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences Divisions, contributing to the development of the liberally educated practitioner.
The freshman year establishes the foundation for the study of nursing with an introduction to concepts and theories related to understanding nursing practice. Clinical study is introduced in the sophomore year with the focus on health promotion and identification of risk factors. Clinical nursing skills are practiced first in the Nursing Department’s Skills Laboratory.
Clinical experiences take place in a variety of settings such as schools, clinics, senior citizens' centers, and long term and acute care facilities. Junior year nursing courses focus on the care of individuals and families of all ages who are experiencing the stress of illness. Clinical experiences take place in acute care settings. During the senior year, student clinical experiences are planned to encourage synthesis of knowledge gained in preceding years and focus on individuals, families, and communities. Students provide care to those experiencing more complex illnesses and problems.
Professional role behaviors that are introduced in the freshman year and augmented during the years of subsequent study are expanded during the senior year. During the senior year, students have a culminating clinical course that provides a transition into clinical practice. Students have an opportunity to work on evidence-based projects with faculty and clinical mentors.
The program provides a foundation for graduate education in nursing and serves as a stimulus for continuing professional development. Students who successfully complete the undergraduate BSN curriculum plan of studies (includes a Comprehensive Exam) will be eligible to take the NCLEX to become RNs.
Registered nurses, who are graduates of diploma or associate degree programs in nursing, may choose to enroll in the RN Options. See the RN Options section for further information.
Objectives
The graduate of the baccalaureate program will:
- Synthesize knowledge from nursing, biophysical, and social sciences in the practice of professional nursing.
- Demonstrate skills in critical thinking and decision making in the use of the nursing process with individuals, families, groups, and communities experiencing complex health problems.
- Intervene therapeutically to promote, restore, and maintain the maximum health potential of individuals, families, groups, and communities.
- Manage nursing care for groups of clients.
- Provide health education for individuals, families, groups, and communities.
- Evaluate research findings to guide nursing practice.
- Assume responsibility and accountability for own decisions and actions in the practice of nursing.
- Incorporate professional values, including ethical and legal aspects, into the practice of nursing.
- Communicate effectively in interactions with individuals, families, groups, and communities.
- Demonstrate evolving competence in multicultural interactions.
Admission Policy
All students wishing to obtain a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree must apply and be accepted to the Pitt-Johnstown campus and the Nursing Program. Qualified applicants are admitted without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or a veteran of the Vietnam era.
Prospective Students convicted of any felonious act may be prohibited from licensure as a Registered Nurse by the Board of Nursing in various states. Applicants who plan to practice in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (as well as most other states) should be advised that upon application for the Registered Nurse Licensure Examination, the Board of Nursing will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, felony, felonious act, or crime of moral turpitude, an illegal act associated with alcohol, or an illegal act associated with substance abuse(s).
Sample section from Pennsylvania State Board Application:
Section 6. fees:
Qualifications for Licensure. No application for licensure as a registered nurse shall be considered unless accompanied by a fee determined by the Board by regulation. Every applicant, to be eligible for examination for licensure as a registered nurse, shall furnish evidence satisfactory to the Board that he or she is of good moral character, has completed work equal to a standard high school course as evaluated by the Board and has satisfactorily completed an approved program of professional nursing. Approved programs shall include baccalaureate degree, associate degree and diploma nursing programs. The Board shall not issue a license or certificate to an applicant who has been convicted of a felonious act prohibited by the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L. 233, No. 64), known as "The Controlled Substance Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act," or convicted of a felony relating to a controlled substance in a court of law of the United States or any other state, territory or country unless:
- At least ten (10) years have elapsed from the date of conviction.
- The applicant satisfactorily demonstrates to the Board that he has made significant progress in personal rehabilitation since the conviction such that licensure of the applicant should not be expected to create a substantial risk of harm to the health and safety of patients or the public or a substantial risk of further criminal violations
- The applicant otherwise satisfies the qualifications contained in or authorized by this act.
As used in this subsection the term "convicted" shall include a judgment, an admission of guilt or a plea of nolo contendere. An applicant's statement on the application declaring the absence of a conviction shall be deemed satisfactory evidence of the absence of a conviction, unless the Board has some evidence to the contrary. (6 amended Dec. 15, 1986, P.L. 1607, No. 179) (Professional Nurse Law)
Moreover, because of the mandate of the laws relating to character requirements (good moral character) (Sections 13, 14 and 15.1 of the Professional Nursing Law), the Board has the duty and the right to ask for this information.
If you have a criminal conviction, you are advised to contact:
State Board of Nursing
P. O. Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
(717) 783-7142
All undergraduate, pre-licensure students are required by the clinical site agencies to obtain and maintain valid Pennsylvania Act 33/34 (child abuse and criminal record check) and ACT 73 (fingerprinting background check). Clearances will be reviewed by the clinical sites where students are scheduled to do clinical. Failure to obtain the necessary clearances may prevent students from completing clinical requirements.
To request additional information, please contact the Pitt-Johnstown Office of Admissions:
Curriculum Plan – Baccalaureate Program in Nursing (BSN)
FRESHMAN
Fall Term
- CHEM 0190 Chemistry for the Health Professions 3 cr.
- CHEM 0192 Chemistry for the Health Professions Lab 1 cr.
- BIOL 0950 Human Anatomy & Physiology I and Lab 4 cr.
- English Composition 3 cr.
- Psychology+ 3 cr.
- CAS 0100 University Scholarship 1 cr.
TOTAL 15 cr.
Spring Term
- BIOL 0980 Medical Microbiology 3 cr.
- BIOL 0981 Medical Microbiology Lab 1 cr.
- BIOL 0970 Human Anatomy & Physiology 2 & Lab 4 cr.
- PSY 0501 Life Span Development 3 cr.
- NUR 0051 Introduction to Professional Nursing 3 cr.
- NUR 0086 Nursing Informatics 2 cr.
TOTAL 16 cr.
SOPHOMORE
Fall Term
- NUR 0020 Pathophysiologic Foundations of Nursing Care 4 cr.
- NUR 0080 Foundations of Nursing Practice 1 5 cr.
- NUR 0087 Pharmacology and Therapeutics 3 cr.
- NUR 0088 Statistics for Evidenced-Based Practice 3 cr.
TOTAL 15 cr.
Spring Term
- NUR 0081 Foundations of Nursing Practice 2 2 cr.
- NUR 0082 Nursing Management of the Adult with Acute/Chronic Illness 7 cr.
- NUR 0067 Nursing Research: Introduction to Critical Appraisal & Evidence Based Practice+ 3 cr.
- Sociology 3 cr.
- NUR 0066 Nutrition for Clinical Practice++ 3 cr.
TOTAL 18 cr.
JUNIOR
Fall Term
- NUR 1050 Nursing Care of Mothers, Newborns, and Families* 5 cr.
- NUR 1052 Nursing Care of Children & Families* 5 cr.
- Anthropology/Culture: American or Foreign 3 cr.
- NUR 1085 Ethics in Nursing and Health* 3 cr.
TOTAL 16 cr.
Spring Term
- NUR 1060 Nursing Care of Clients with Psychiatric Mental Health Problems* 5 cr.
- NUR 1120 Advanced Nursing Mgmt of the Adult with Acute/Complex Health
Problems* 5 cr.
- NUR 1054 Nursing Care of Older Adults* 3 cr
- Speech/Communication 3 cr.
TOTAL 16 cr.
SENIOR
Fall Term
- NUR 1128 Community Health Nursing Theory and Practicum** 5 cr.
- NUR 1121 Advanced Clinical Problem Solving** 5 cr.
- Senior Special Topics Elective** 2-3 cr.
- Humanities Elective 3 cr.
TOTAL 15 or 16 cr.
Spring Term
- NUR 1134 Transition into Professional Nursing Practice** 8 cr.
- NUR 1680 Introduction to Genetics & Molecular Therapeutics 3 cr.
- Elective 3 cr.
- Baccalaureate Comprehensive Exam §
TOTAL 14 cr.
TOTAL CREDITS: 124
Key:
+ Must be taken prior to NUR 1060
++ Must be taken prior to NUR 1054
* Placement varies in the junior year
** Placement varies in the senior year
§ Successful completion of the Baccalaureate Comprehensive Exam is required during senior year
RN Options Curriculum
Early Admission to MSN or DNP
The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing RN Options (Early Admission to MSN or DNP) curriculum is designed for registered nurses, who obtained their nursing education through either a CCNE, NLN, or ACEN accredited diploma or associate degree program to pursue undergraduate education with early admission to a graduate nursing program. Courses are taught by nursing leaders who are experts in their field. Faculty serves as educators, role models and mentors for their students.
The University of Pittsburgh RN Options track is for professional nurses who are enthusiastically committed to their role as patient care advocates ensuring best possible healthcare outcomes. The RN Options curriculum builds upon the professional nurse’s strengths and experiences to expand professional knowledge and practice skills which will provide potential career changing opportunities.
The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing recognizes its obligation to prepare professional nurses to be competent healthcare professionals. Graduates of the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing possess critical appraisal/thinking skills, sophisticated clinical practice knowledge, and the ability to integrate the latest research findings to provide thorough, safe and effective patient care.
RN Options provides professional nurses an opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills at a school of nursing with an international reputation for excellence. U.S. News and World Report recognizes the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing among the top 10 graduate schools of nursing in the United States. The School of Nursing is consistently ranked among the top 5 schools of nursing for research by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Many healthcare organizations are recognizing the advantage of having more bachelors, masters and DNP prepared professional nurses. Research clearly indicates patients cared for by professional nurses with advanced degrees have a higher incidence of positive healthcare outcomes.
Application Guidelines
- Graduate from a CCNE, NLN or ACEN accredited associate degree program or diploma school of nursing
- A competitive (GPA) of 3.0 or above in previous academic work
- Valid registered nurse license (All students must obtain a Pennsylvania license)
- Complete RN Option online application
Additional Information
- Students may begin coursework at the Pitt-Johnstown campus, and complete the graduate portion of the program either online or at the Oakland campus (depending on the selected track).
- Course offerings are flexible, students may begin coursework in any term (fall/spring/summer).
- Deadlines for admission are August 1 (Fall Term), December 1 (Spring Term), and April 1 (Summer Term).
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Upon finishing 84 credits in the RN Options track, students must select an option to complete their remaining requirements in the Early Admission to the MSN or DNP selected program or complete the BSN curriculum.
- Students who pursue the Early Admission to the MSN or DNP track must: 1) take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE); 2) apply to the specific program of selection; 3) provide necessary documentation for desired major; and, 4) complete the remaining 36 credits of which 24 bridge credits will be at the graduate level, to attain a BSN as well as achieve credits toward their MSN or DNP degree. Students who are offered conditional admission to an online MSN may complete the bridge credits online or onsite.
- Full and part time schedules are available.
RN Options Curriculum
(subject to change)
- CHEM 0190 Chemistry for the Health Professions & CHEM 0192 Lab *+ 4 cr.
- BIOL 0950 Human Anatomy Physiology 1 & Lab *+ 4 cr.
- BIOL 0970 Anatomy Physiology 2 & Lab *+ 4 cr.
- BIOL 0980 AND BIOL 0981 Medical Microbiology & Lab *+ 4 cr.
- NUR 0066 Nutrition for Clinical Practice + 3 cr.
- PSY 0501 Life Span Development *+ 3 cr.
- PSY Psychology *+ 3 cr.
- ANTH Anthropology *+ 3 cr.
- COMMRC Communication/Public Speaking + 3 cr.
- ENGCOMP English Composition *+ 3 cr.
- STAT or NUR 0088 Introduction to Basic Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice *+ 3 cr.
- SOC Sociology *+ 3 cr.
- NUR 0067 Nursing Research: An Introduction to Critical Appraisal and Evidence Based Practice 3 cr.
- NUR 0081 Foundations of Nursing Practice 2 *+ 2 cr.
- NUR 0082 Nursing Care of Adults with Acute/Chronic Illness *+ 7 cr.
- NUR 1050 Nursing Care of Mothers, Newborns, and Families * 5 cr.
- NUR 1052 Nursing Care of Children & Their Families * 5 cr.
- NUR 1154 Nursing Care of the Older Adult 2 cr.
- NUR 0086 Nursing Informatics 2 cr.
- NUR 1060 Nursing Care of Clients with Psych Mental Health Problems * 5 cr.
- NUR 1079 Professional Development and Practicum 2 3 cr.
- NUR 1074 Professional Development and Practicum 1 3 cr.
- NUR 1085 Ethics in Nursing and Health Care+ 3 cr.
- NUR 1120 Adv. Nursing Mgmt. of Adults with Acute/Complex Health Problems * 5 cr.
- NUR 1121 Advance Clinical Problem Solving 5 cr.
- NUR 1127 Community Health Nursing Theory 3 cr.
- NUR 0087 Pharmacology & Therapeutics 3 cr.
* Can be challenged by exam
+ Credits can be transferred from other University/College institutions for credit if approved by University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Note: All previous science related coursework corresponding to this curriculum must have been completed within 10 years of admission to Pitt-Johnstown.
BSN curriculum will be scheduled individually by academic advisor
Early Admission to the MSN or DNP graduate level courses
- NUR 2004/220444* Pathophysiology Across the Life Span 4 cr.
- NUR 2680/2280* Introduction to Genetics & Molecular Therapeutics 3 cr.
- NUR 2010/2210* Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in Culturally Diverse
Populations 3 cr.
- NUR 2011/2211 Applied Statistics for Evidenced-Based Practice 3 cr.
- NURSP 2092/2292 - Leadership Development 3 cr.
- NURSP 2090/2290* Health Care Outcomes or NURSP 2061/2261* Organization and Management Theory 3 cr.
- NUR 2031/2231* Diagnostic Physical Exam Across the Life Span 3 cr.
- NUR 2000/2200* Research for Evidenced Based-Practice I 2 cr.
* online courses
For those Students Interested in the "Early Admission to MSN"
For additional information, please contact Pitt-Johnstown Nursing Department:
- Phone: 814-269-2995
- email: sub15@pitt.edu
School Nurse Certificate
Overview
The Pennsylvania Department of Education School Nurse Certificate is offered jointly through the Pitt-Johnstown’s Division of Education and the Division of Nursing & Health Sciences. The purpose of the School Nurse Certification Program is to prepare registered nurses to meet the health needs of children of all ages in diverse school settings. This certificate may be completed while enrolled in or after completion of the BSN program. Upon completion of the School Nurse Certificate curriculum, students are eligible to apply for the School Nurse Certificate (Education Specialist I) issued by the Pennsylvania (PA) Department of Education. (Note: BSN and valid registered nurse license from PA are required)
Curriculum Format
Objective
Graduates of the School Nurse Certificate are prepared to apply nursing knowledge, skills, and abilities in the care of school age children in diverse elementary and secondary school settings.
Admission Criteria
- 3.0 GPA in the BSN degree or higher nursing degree from a CCNE, NLN, ACEN accredited program.
- Current Criminal Record Clearance (ACT 34 and ACT 73)
- Current Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance (ACT 33)
- Current American Heart Association - BLS Healthcare Provider Course Certification
- Complete application packet
- Fall, Spring and Summer term admissions
Curriculum (PA Department of Education Requirements)
- EDPSY 1021 Students with Special Needs *3cr.
- EDPSY 1025 Inclusion Strategies * 3 cr.
- Math + 6 cr.
- English Composition + 3 cr.
- English Literature + 3 cr.
- NUR 1077 School Nurse Role 3 cr.
- NUR 1078 School Nurse Practicum 3 cr.
+ Courses taken at other institutions will be evaluated for equivalency to Pitt-Johnstown courses and academic credit will be granted for comparable coursework.
* Prerequisites for NUR 1077 and NUR 1078
EDPSY 1021 and EDPSY 1025 must be completed at Pitt-Johnstown unless an equivalent course was completed in prior baccalaureate degree coursework.
For More Information Contact:
- Susanne Bodenschatz, Nursing Department
814-269-2995 or sub15@pitt.edu
