New courses for undergraduate students

Each term, a variety of new courses are offered for the first time. Below is a centrally-maintained list of such courses, submitted by various academic units on campus. Click the course link to see the full course description in the Undergraduate Studies Academic Calendar. Browse through the list for course details and check back often for updates.

Fall 2023

Last updated: May 23, 2023

ANTH 489: Special Topics in Anthropology

Topic title: Skeletons and Controversial Burials in the ancient Greek World

Topic details: In this seminar we will examine archaeological burials and the use and abuse of human skeletons in archaeological arguments. By integrating the study of bones human remains with archaeological and literary evidence, we will attempt to separate the data from the often-sensationalized interpretations of some of these sites. The need for multi-disciplinary, integrated approaches in examining complex burial contexts will be a theme throughout the seminar. We’ll also examine the phenomenon of media attention, whether sought out or inadvertent, and the impact this has on archaeological interpretation. The course will be taught in a seminar format, with small groups of students preparing short presentations each week, while everyone will be expected to have completed core readings on the topic, and be prepared to discuss the issues. Students with interests in ancient literature, archaeology, and skeletal studies are welcome, and indeed essential, to developing the various discussion topics.

Additional infomation:

INTEG 375: Special Topics in Knowledge Integration

Topic title: Introduction to Physical ComputingIntroduction to Physical Computing course photo

Topic details: An introductory course in embedded systems: how to interface sensors, microcontrollers, and actuators to i) measure physical variables (e.g., temperature, pressure, button state, light levels...), ii) make calculations based on those measurements, and iii) use those results to impact the real world (e.g., with movement, light, sound...). You’ll learn how these things work, and how to integrate them together effectively. The course will use a flipped-classroom model and involve a lot of time building circuits, writing programs, and designing & making interfaces. Building on this learning and doing, groups of 2-3 students will create a physically interactive device that they design. Prior experience with coding (any language) is helpful but not necessary.

Additional infomation:

  • This course will be taught by Professor Rob Gorbet.
  • This course requires you to purchase a course kit which costs approximately $100.
  • Prerequisite: level at least 2A.