HNRS-HONORS
HNRS 1115. Honors First Year Seminar
3 Credits (3)
This course is designed to introduce new first semester students to the life of the mind, the life of the University, and the principles that guide the NMSU University Honors Program. Combining critical thinking and experiential exploration, students will develop a personalized plan for success, both in and out of the classroom, consistent with the values of the Conroy Honors College and the mission of the University.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate critical thought about the nature of knowledge, learning, and student development in the contemporary University.
- Explain how key concepts and principles serve as the foundation for the Honors College mission and values.
- Create a plan for their experiences at NMSU, in and out of the classroom, that will maximize their academic achievement and personal success beyond graduation.
HNRS 1135G. Introduction to Biological Anthropology
3 Credits (3)
This course provides a basic introduction to the broad field of biological anthropology. The research interests of biological anthropologists include the history and development of modern evolutionary biology, molecular and population genetics, modern primates, the primate and human fossil record, and modern human biological diversity. This is an Honors version of ANTH 1135G. It is taught with ANTH 1135G with differentiated assignments.
Corequisite: HNRS 1135L.
Learning Outcomes
- Summarize the basic principles of evolution and recognize how they apply to the human species.
- Recognize the biological and behavioral continuity of humans with all life, and especially other modern primate species.
- Identify ways in which the human species is biologically and behaviorally unique.
- Summarize fossil evidence for human evolution.
- Distinguish the major Paleolithic industries and outline the behavioral and cognitive changes indicated by the fossil and archeological evidence.
- Critically evaluate popular accounts of human variation and human evolution.
- Interpret modern human dilemmas (e.g., overpopulation, co-evolution of disease, and genetic engineering) from an evolutionary perspective.
- Discuss in class and analyze in writing scholarly arguments concerning course concepts.
HNRS 1135L. Introduction to Biological Anthropology Lab
1 Credit (1P)
This laboratory course expand on the topics covered in lecture course and uses scientific methods and principles to examine evidence for the process of evolution, the nature of heredity, human evolutionary history and family tree relationships, primate ecology and behavior, and modern human diversity. Hands-on experience with fossil and skeletal material will be an important part of the learning process. This is an Honors version of ANTH 1135L.
Corequisite: HNRS 1135G.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method.
- Employ principles of Mendelian genetics to determine genotype and phenotype probabilities, and calculate gene, genotype, and phenotype frequencies using the Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium formula.
- Demonstrate an understanding of cell structure and functions.
- Use common lab and anthropometric equipment such as a compound microscope and calipers.
- Discuss primate evolution, and compare and contrast members of the Primate order in terms of structure, behavior, and phylogeny.
- Classify hominid species based upon selected traits such as anatomical changes associated with bipedalism, changes in the size and structure of the brain, and the development of culture.
- Locate and describe the major bones of the human skeleton, and identify characteristics of human skeletons or skulls such as gender, age, and ancestry.
- Discuss current research in genome analysis of various hominid popul ati ons.
HNRS 2110G. The Present in the Past: Contemporary Issues and their Historical Roots
3 Credits (3)
This course will take today's concerns, trends, and customs and contextualize them in the past, explaining their historical origins and development. As an example, we will examine the history of celebrity and how celebrities -- from Lord Byron to the Kardashians' made an impact on their contemporaries and the broader society of their time. This reading- and writing-intensive course will help students develop skills related to critical thinking, logical argumentation, and written and oral communication.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze and critically interpret primary sources and understand how others might interpret and use the same material in different ways;
- Recognize and articulate the diversity of human experience across a range of historical periods and/or cultural perspectives.
- Understand how historical experiences and memories have shaped contemporary societies;
- Identify and understand the degree to which history has been used and misused in the past;
- Draw on historical and/or cultural perspectives to evaluate any or all of the following: contemporary problems/issues, contemporary modes of expression, and contemporary thought.
- Demonstrate improvement in their ability to read critically, think logically, and express themselves clearly in writing.
HNRS 2111. Successful Fellowship Writing
1 Credit (1)
Provides scholars with hands-on skills to complete proposals for scholarships and fellowships, such as the Truman, Rhodes, Marshall, Goldwater, Udall, and others. Other skills include how to write resumes, develop general research skills, and find grant and foundation sources. For freshmen and sophomores. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Review of Prestigious International and National scholarships
- Best practices in preparing competitive proposals and applications
- Effective strategies for writing compelling Executive summaries, Resumes, and Personal Statements
HNRS 2114G. Music in Time and Space
3 Credits (3)
Introduction to all forms of Music. Through our auditory senses and intellectual faculties music is an ideal means for intelligent and humanistic examination of peoples and cultures, and for the enhancement of life. Types of music covered include classical, jazz, rock and roll, and world music. Music videos, live in-class performances, evening concerts, and lectures will be used as a basis for discussions and research. May be repeated up to 3 credits. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze and critically interpret significant primary texts and/or works of art (this includes fine art, literature, music, theatre, and film).
- Compare art forms, modes of thought and expression, and processes across a range of historical periods and/or structures (such as political, geographic, social, cultural, religious, intellectual).
- Recognize and articulate the diversity of human experience across a range of historical periods and/or cultural perspectives.
- Draw on historical and/or cultural perspectives to evaluate all of the following: contemporary problems/issues, contemporary modes of expression, and contemporary thought
HNRS 2115G. Encounters with Art
3 Credits (3)
A multicultural examination of the principles and philosophies of the visual arts and the ideas expressed through them. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Articulate the relationship of art to the human experience
- Apply the vocabulary of art to critical writings and discussions
- Interpret art works within cultural, social, personal and historical contexts
HNRS 2116G. Earth, Time and Life
4 Credits (3+3P)
Covers how the earth's materials form, processes involved in changing the earth's configuration, and extent of people's dependence upon the earth's resources. Includes mineral and energy resources, development of landscapes, environmental problems, evolution of the earth and life forms. May be taken in place of GEOL 1110. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Gain a general understanding of geology and the geological processes that have been occurring throughout Earth's history.
- Learn about some of the common minerals and rocks that are the building blocks to geology and the rock cycle.
- Investigate the processes associated with each rock type (e.g., volcanoes, faults, depositional processes, etc.) and as well as potential geologic hazards (e.g., volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, flooding, etc.).
- Recognize and identify common minerals and rocks and understand the basic processes and conditions responsible for their formation and occurrence.
- Comprehensively understand how the internal and external parts of the Earth have functioned throughout geologic time.
HNRS 2117G. The World of the Renaissance: Discovering the Modern
3 Credits (3)
An introduction to the literature and thought of Renaissance Europe. Humanism and the Reformation will be approached through the intensive study of major writers such as Petrarch, Machiavelli, Luther, Erasmus, Montaigne, and Shakespeare. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze and critically interpret significant primary texts and/or works of fine art, literature, philosophy, and theatre from the early modem period;
- Locate art forms, modes of thought and expression, and processes from the early modem period in historical and/or cultural context and compare them to those of other time periods;
- Demonstrate an understanding of how early modem historical and/or cultural perspectives and key technological developments contributed to the development of contemporary thought and modes of expression;
- Recognize and articulate the diversity of human experience across historical periods and/or cultural perspectives;
- Demonstrate skill in working with relevant secondary resources and research tools to develop a class
HNRS 2120G. Foundations of Western Culture
3 Credits (3)
Critical reading of seminal texts relating to the foundations of culture and values in Western civilization, from ancient Greece to about 1700. Focus on the development of concepts of nature, human nature, and the state. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will enhance abilities to quickly read, comprehend, and evaluate lengthy, complex texts to extract their fundamental arguments.
- Students will improve critical thinking by grappling with ethical issues about the rights of individuals versus societies.
- Students will use historical analysis to contextualize current social, political, geographic, and economic issues and how the foundations continue to affect contemporary society.
HNRS 2130G. Shakespeare on Film
3 Credits (3)
How do Shakespeare's plays continue to speak to us through the medium of film? Written in a time of rapid social change,Shakespeare's plays invited audiences to think critically about the relationship between the self and others and to question conventions. Performances of Shakespeare have long been used to call out social injustice, from western anti-Semitism prior to World War II (The Merchant of Venice), to civil rights-era white supremacy in the US and apartheid in South African (Othello),and authoritarianism in the Arab Spring (Richard III). This course focuses on post-1980 Hollywood film versions of Shakespeare's plays and a few prior landmark adaptations around the world, examining how they use Shakespeare as a medium for debate and even a catalyst for social change.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate critical thinking by identifying issues and problems in the film adaptation of Shakespeare; 2 .Engage in intercultural reasoning and develop intercultural competence and historical consciousness in analyzing film adaptations from the US, Europe, and Asia;
- Engage with questions of personal and social responsibility as explored in Shakespeare's plays and modern film adaptations;
- Conduct effective research on a relevant topic, evaluating the validity and authority of secondary sources, synthesizing ideas, and drawing reasonable conclusions; 5 .Present independent research in collaboration with other student researchers and reflect on this teamwork experience
HNRS 2140G. Plato and the Discovery of Philosophy
3 Credits (3)
Examines arguments and theories found in the Platonic dialogues with a view to determining the nature and value of philosophy both from Plato's point of view and absolutely. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will evaluate a number of Plato’s dialogues to understand his doctrines and arguments.
- Students will use their understanding to further evaluate why his philosophies have remained influential in modern, Western society and beyond.
- Students will develop well-formulated, compelling arguments from philosophical texts.
HNRS 2141G. Bamboo and Silk: The Fabric of Chinese Literature
3 Credits (3)
Introductory survey of traditional and modern Chinese prose and poetry in translation with emphasis on genre, theme, and social/historical context. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will acquire extensive knowledge of one of the world's oldest and richest literary traditions.
- Not incidentally, students will also gain knowledge of China's history and philosophical traditions.
- As this class is based on reading, writing, and discussion, students will hone their interpretive and expressive skills.
HNRS 2145G. Celtic Literature
3 Credits (3)
This course provides an overview of the most important early literary works of the so-called Celtic nations, principally Ireland and Wales, from a literary and historical approach. This literature stems from the period 600-1200 and ends with the development of the Romances under influence from the French
Learning Outcomes
- Students will learn the concept of the international folk tale,
- Students will learn about the history of the Celts
- Students will learn about the concept of Celtic nations' formed during the 19th Century.
- Students will enhance critical thinking skills.
- Students will enhance written and oral communication.
HNRS 2160G. New Testament as Literature
3 Credits (3)
Literature of the New Testament examined from a literary perspective. Emphasis on translation history of the New Testament, generic features of gospel, epistle and apocalypse, precedent literary models, problems of authorship, classification of New Testament texts. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will hone critical thinking skills by analyzing arguments and controversies surrounding the roots of Christianity.
- Students will discern and discuss the viability of both literary and historical sources with debated authorship, dating, and interdependency.
- Students will practice interpersonal navigation and maintaining an academic environment of respect as they discuss a number of topics that can be considered controversial or subjective.
HNRS 2161G. Window of Humanity
3 Credits (3)
Anthropology is the most humanistic of the sciences, and the most scientific of the humanities. This course will use anthropological perspectives to examine the human experience from our earliest origins, through the experiences of contemporary societies. We will gain insights into the influence of both culture and biology on shaping our shared human universals, and on the many ways in which human groups are diverse. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the concepts that define Anthropology (along with its subfields) as a specific research discipline.
- Possess a growing vocabulary for anthropology, cultural study, ethnographic research and writing that will empower them as they continue with their degrees and professional careers.
- Recognize how Anthropological concepts, terms, and methods are valuable for present-day concerns and how these tools can be used to engage life and the world at large.
HNRS 2165G. Introduction to Humanities in the 21st Century
3 Credits (3)
An exploration of the global humanities according to its various manifestations: environmental, public, digital, and applied.
Learning Outcomes
- Articulate what the humanities are and what role they have played in education throughout the ages
- Critically analyze and communicate orally and in writing various humanities concepts and global interconnections among peoples and cultures.
- Describe, through the study of the global humanities, how cultural contexts and human practices influence individuals and societies.
- Apply the knowledge and skills gained through the study of the global humanities to explore their majors, their career goals, and the responsibilities of individuals in their communities.
- Demonstrate information literacy and technological skills in researching and presenting themes related to the global humanities.
- Reflect on the effects of the global humanities on individuals.
HNRS 2170G. The Human Mind
3 Credits (3)
The primary course objective is to develop an appreciation of the variety and complexity of problems that are solved by the human mind. The course explores how problems are solved by a combined computational analysis (computational theory of mind), and evolutionary (evolution by natural selection) perspective. The mind is what the brain does (i.e. information processing) and the brain is a computational device that is a product of evolution by natural selection. Note that this is not a neuroscience course, we will be focusing on the mind (what the brain does) rather than on the brain. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only.
Learning Outcomes
- Enhance written and oral communication
- Stimulate critical thinking and learn to weigh scientific evidence
- Challenge students to make ethical decisions and promote personal and social responsibility
HNRS 2171G. The Worlds of Arthur
3 Credits (3)
Arthurian texts and traditions from medieval chronicles to contemporary literature. Emphasis on both the continuities of the Arthurian tradition and the diversity of genres, media, and cultures that have given expression to the legend. May be repeated up to 3 credits. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will examine how texts and narratives, even with fictional implications, still held psychological, social, cultural, and religious sway within developed societies throughout history.
- Students will synthesize information from an array of both primary and secondary sources to measure the cultural significance King Arthur holds in contemporary societies.
- Students will extrapolate how a society’s values at any point in history will affect the transference of mythos, just as a myth transmits the values of that society.
HNRS 2172G. Archaeology: Search for the Past
3 Credits (3)
A critical evaluation of various approaches to understanding prehistory and history. The methods and theories of legitimate archaeology are contrasted with fantastic claims that invoke extraterrestrials, global catastrophes, transoceanic voyages, and extra-sensory perception. May be repeated up to 3 credits. Restricted to Las Cruces campus only. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify, describe, and explain how human lifeways changed in diverse communities in different parts of the globe.
- Select and use relevant archaeological evidence to articulate how people's beliefs and values were influenced by politics, geography, economics, culture, biology, history, and social institutions in the past.
- Analyze the significance of archaeological artifacts in context and explain their relevance to understanding relations among individuals, their society, and the environment.
- Evaluate how practices in research, conservation, and tourism to archaeological sites promote ethical stewardship of non-renewable archaeological resources.
- Design a study tour to archaeological sites that will address a key question or argument in prehistory and promote historic/archaeological preservation.
HNRS 2175G. Introduction to Communication Honors
3 Credits (3)
Study and practice of interpersonal, small group, and presentational skills essential to effective social, business, and professional interaction. May be repeated up to 3 credits.
Prerequisite: An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze and evaluate oral and written communication in terms of situation, audience, purpose, aesthetics, and diverse points of view.
- Express a primary purpose in a compelling statement and order supporting points logically and convincingly.
- Use effective rhetorical strategies to persuade, inform and engage.
- Employ writing and/or speaking processes such as planning, collaborating, organizing, composing, revising editing to create presentations using correct diction, syntax, grammar and mechanics.
- Integrate research correctly and ethically from credible sources to support the primary purpose of a communication.
- Engage in reasoned civil discourse while recognizing the distinctions among opinions, facts, and inferences.
HNRS 2178G. Theatre: Beginnings to Broadway
3 Credits (3)
Intercultural and historical overview of live theatre production and performance, including history, literature and professionals. Students attend and report on stage productions. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Distinguish and differentiate the characteristics of theatre from other art forms.
- Describe the major components of a theatrical event.
- Describe the functions of various theatre personnel.
- Define specific terms relating to the study of theatre.
- List and describe the parts of a play.
- Define the different parts of plot.
- Critique plays
- Describe the characteristics of theatre in the different periods of history.
- Develop an appreciation for theatre as an art form and a reflection of society
HNRS 2180G. Citizen and State Great Political Issues
3 Credits (3)
The fundamental questions of politics: why and how political societies are organized, what values they express, and how well they satisfy those normative goals and the differing conceptions of citizenship, representation, and freedom. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will investigate the fluid state of American politics by discerning the decisions and policies of a selection of presidents.
- Students will investigate the complex operations behind a representative democracy.
- Students will examine how the sociopolitical environment surrounding a president influences his policies, and how a president’s policies affect the broader society.
- Students will assess and measure how politics can be affected by active and engaged citizens
HNRS 2190G. Claiming a Multiracial Past
3 Credits (3)
Survey of history of the United States in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, with an emphasis on multicultural social and cultural history. Focus on understanding American history from the point of view of dispossessed, impoverished, and disenfranchised Americans who have fought to claim both their rights as Americans and American past. 5 or higher
Prerequisite(s): An ACT score of 26 or higher; or a combination of an ACT score of 24-25 with a High School GPA of 3.75; or a NMSU cummulative GPA of 3.
Learning Outcomes
- Students will contextualize the current state of American “being” by focusing on the multicultural-social and cultural history of the U.S. in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
- Students will hone public speaking and presentation skills through classroom discussions and activities.
- Students will practice interpersonal navigation and maintaining an academic environment of respect as they discuss a number of topics that can be considered controversial or subjective.
HNRS 2996. Special Topics
1-3 Credits (1-3)
Special course offerings, with unique titles listed in Schedule of Classes. May be repeated up to 6 credits.
Learning Outcomes
- Varies