May 20, 2024

2021-2022 UMaine Undergraduate Catalog

2021-2022 UMaine Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

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	PHY 400 - Career Preparation in Physics and Engineering Physics II A senior level course required of all physics and engineering physics majors. Refinement of technical communication skills through projects, presentations and class discussions of contemporary issues in science and engineering and strategies for career enhancement after graduation. General Education Requirements: Together with PHY 481 or PHY 482, this course Satisfies the General Education Capstone Experience Requirement. Prerequisites: Grade of C- or better in PHY 200; senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PHY 447 - Molecular Biophysics An introduction to physical properties of biological macromolecules including proteins, nucleic acids and membranes. Solution thermodynamics developed as needed. Some statistical mechanics introduced. Topics include macromolecular structure, dynamics and functions, inter- and intra-molecular interactions, ligand binding equilibria, helix-coil transitions, physical techniques used in biophysics such as calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, optical and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Four credit version contains additional term project to be arranged with instructor. Prerequisites: MAT 126, CHY 121, and a grade of C- or better in either PHY 112 or PHY 122 or permission Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3 - 4
	PHY 451 - Mechanics A detailed treatment of mechanics using Newtonian and Lagrangian methods. Newton’s laws, particle motion in a plane, linear oscillations, damped oscillations, coupled oscillators, rigid body rotation, and potential methods. Prerequisites: A Grade of C- or better in PHY 231 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PHY 454 - Electricity and Magnetism I An intermediate level course in the fundamentals of the theory of electricity and magnetism. Treats electrostatics and magnetostatics, both in vacuum and in matter. Rec 3. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in either PHY 112 or PHY 122 and in PHY 231 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PHY 455 - Electricity and Magnetism II A continuation of PHY 454. Treats electrodynamics by developing Maxwell’s equations and applying them to systems of general interest. Rec 3. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in PHY 454. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	PHY 463 - Statistical Mechanics Introduces statistical mechanics and thermodynamics with examples chosen from magnetic systems, ideal gases, metals, superfluidity, chemical reactions, phase transformations, mixtures, semiconductors, kinetic theory or related topics. Normally taken as a junior or senior elective by students in the sciences or engineering. Rec 3. Prerequisites: MAT 258 or MAT 259 and a grade of C- or better in PHY 236. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	PHY 469 - Quantum and Atomic Physics Basic principles of quantum mechanics. Exploration of canonical systems and the postulates of quantum mechanics using Dirac, vector-matrix, and wavefunction notations. Analysis of spin, energy, position, and momentum eigenstates, both time independent and time dependent, for several bound and scattering state systems. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in both PHY 231 and PHY 236 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PHY 470 - Nuclear Physics Properties of the nucleus, nuclear reactions, radioactive decay, nuclear models, nuclear reactors and nuclear health physics. May be taken without the laboratory, PHY 471. Prerequisites: MAT 259 and a grade of C- or better in PHY 236 Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 2
	PHY 471 - Nuclear Physics Laboratory Laboratory exercises to accompany PHY 470. Lab 2. Corequisites: PHY 470 Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 1
	PHY 472 - Geometrical and Fourier Optics Covers geometrical optics, refraction and reflection at plane and spherical surfaces, optical instruments; Fourier optics, interference of waves and diffraction by a single and a double aperture; Lasers - theory of their operation, mode locking and pulse formation. Rec 3. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in either PHY 112 or PHY 122. Corequisites: MAT 228 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PHY 480 - Physics of Materials An Introductory courses in the physics of materials, primarily solid state physics. The structural, mechanical, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties of materials are discussed. This course is appropriate for upper level undergraduates and graduate students in the field of physical sciences and engineering. The topics will build upon and utilize concepts from materials science, quantum physics, mechanics, and electricity and magnetism. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in both PHY 231 and PHY 236 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PHY 481 - Project Laboratory in Physics I An individual project laboratory tailored to the student’s particular interests. In consultation with a faculty sponsor, each student is expected to develop a suitable project, approved by the sponsor and the course coordinator. The project may or may not be related to the sponsor’s research. Full written reports are required. General Education Requirements: Together with PHY 400, this course satisfies the General Education Capstone Experience Requirement. Prerequisites: Open to Physics or Engineering Physics majors with senior standing; others by permission of instructor. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 3
	PHY 482 - Project Laboratory in Physics II Completion of the project begun in PHY 481. General Education Requirements: Together with PHY 400, this course satisfies the General Education Capstone Experience Requirement. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in PHY 481 Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer Credits: 3
	PHY 495 - Engineering Physics Practice Supervised engineering practice in an industrial setting. Placement is off-campus and usually of several month’s duration. Prior approval of department chairperson is required. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing with successful completion of 16 hours of physics courses and a declared major in Engineering Physics. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 1-6
	PHY 496 - Field Experience in Physics Supervised research or development in an academic laboratory, government laboratory, or industrial environment. Placements are usually off-campus and of several month’s duration. Prior approval of the department chairman is required. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing with successful completion of 16 hours of physics courses and a declared major in Engineering Physics. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 1-6
	PHY 497 - Topics in Physics Selected topics in areas not already covered by regular course offerings in the department. Primarily for undergraduates. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: Ar
	PHY 499 - Problems in Physics A thesis project primarily for undergraduates and ordinarily of an experimental nature. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 1-3
	POS 100 - American Government Introduces the major principles, structures, processes and policies of United States government. Covers the Constitution and its development, civil liberties, federalism, the role of political parties and interest groups, and the nature of the presidency, the bureaucracy, the Congress and the national courts. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 3
	POS 120 - Introduction to World Politics A study of contemporary international politics focusing on the interaction of nation-states and including a review of the patterns of global politics from World War II to the present. General Education Requirements: Western Cultural Tradition and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring Credits: 3
	POS 201 - Introduction to Political Theory An introduction to the fundamental questions of political philosophy–what is justice? how ought we to live our lives? what is the best regime?–through detailed study of a few central books in the history of political thought, such as Plato’s Republic and Machiavelli’s Prince. General Education Requirements: Western Cultural Tradition and Ethics Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 3
	POS 203 - American State and Local Government Examines the structure and activities of sub-national governments, with particular attention to state modernization, intergovernmental relations, and comparisons between Maine and other states. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Course Typically Offered: Summer Credits: 3
	POS 220 - Leadership and Social Movements Examines the role of social movements in processes of political and social change. Pays special attention to movement strategies and tactics, member recruitment, the dynamic interaction between activists and elites, and the mobilization of resources for movement sustainability. Prerequisites: LDR 100 or permission; LDR 220 cannot be taken for credit if taken previously as a topic in POS 359 Course Typically Offered: Fall, Alternating years Credits: 3
	POS 241 - Introduction to Comparative Politics Provides an introduction to the major themes of comparative politics, including: comparative political legacies, processes of modernization, comparative governmental institutions, modern political parties and interest groups, comparative policymaking processes, and problems of establishing and maintaining democratic government. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 3
	POS 282 - Introduction to American Law Examines the nature and function of law in America, emphasizing its evolution and incorporation as a dynamic social instrument. General Education Requirements: Ethics Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring Credits: 3
	POS 301 - Classical Political Thought A survey of ancient political philosophy through detailed study of selected writings of Plato, Xenophon, Aristotle, Thucydides and others. General Education Requirements: Ethics, Western Cultural Tradition and Writing Intensive Prerequisites: POS 201 or permission or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 303 - Early Modern Political Thought A survey of early modern political philosophy from the Renaissance to the Enlightenment through detailed study of selected writings of Machiavelli, Descartes, F. Bacon, Hobbes, Locke and others. General Education Requirements: Ethics, Western Cultural Tradition and Writing Intensive Prerequisites: POS 201 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 304 - American Political Thought The development of political ideas in America from the founding period to the present as expounded in the writings of American statesmen and political theorists, and foreign commentators such as Tocqueville. General Education Requirements: Western Cultural Tradition and Writing Intensive Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing or permission. Course Typically Offered: Spring, Odd Years Credits: 3
	POS 305 - Late Modern Political Thought A survey of modern political philosophy from the French Revolution to the twentieth century through detailed study of selected writings of Rousseau, Hegel, Marx, Mill, Nietzsche, and contemporary authors. General Education Requirements: Ethics, Western Cultural Tradition and Writing Intensive Prerequisites: POS 201 or junior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 306 - Crafting the American Constitution This course will engage students in a substantive, detailed, and critical examination of the debates surrounding the drafting, ratification, and early implementation of the Constitution of the United States. It will begin with an examination of the important thinkers who influenced the American Founders, move to a detailed analysis of the critical issues at the Constitutional Convention and in the state ratification debates, and conclude with a look at some early government actions and Supreme Court decisions that put flesh on the bones of the Constitution. During the entirety of this course, students will be asked to reflect on the degree to which the founding debates are still relevant to contemporary American politics and government. Prerequisites: POS 100. Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	POS 307 - Democratic Theory Surveys the major theoretical perspectives of democracy, emphasizing core positions such as liberalism and civic republicanism. Examines competing articulations of more participatory and engaged democratic political systems. Also considers critical perspectives which analyze democracy’s exclusions with regard to race, class, gender, and power. General Education Requirements: Western Cultural Tradition and Ethics Prerequisites: POS 201 Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	POS 309 - Topics in Political Theory Offers a detailed examination of a selected topic in political theory. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: POS 201. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 336 - Government and Politics in Russia Examines the historical Russian political legacy, the experience of Soviet rule from 1917 until 1991, and explores in-depth current domestic and foreign politics in the Russian Federation. Focuses primarily on the development of the post-Soviet Russian political system. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Prerequisites: POS 100. Junior standing. Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	POS 337 - Government and Politics in Eurasia Examines contemporary government and politics in Eurasia, the general region from Central Asia to the Balkan peninsula of Europe. Major themes will include the formation of independent nation-states in Central Asia, the Caucasus mountain region and Ukraine following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991; and government and politics in Turkey. Also considers patterns of international relations within Eurasia and relations between these countries and the larger world. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing or permission of instructor. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	POS 348 - The Politics of Sport in America The primary purpose of POS 348 is to engage students in a substantive, detailed, and critical examination of the intersection of sport and American society through the lens of political science. Sports and American politics and government are closely connected in myriad ways. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100. Course Typically Offered: Summers. Credits: 3
	POS 349 - Topics in Comparative Politics Offers a detailed examination of a selected topic in comparative politics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: POS 241. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 352 - American Public Opinion Covers the role of public opinion in shaping the American political system. It focuses on defining and measuring citizen opinion, the way citizens develop their political views and the linkages between public opinion and public policy. General Education Requirements: Satisfies the General Education Social Contexts and Institutions Requirement. Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Even Years Credits: 3
	POS 353 - The U.S. Congress Examines the legislative process and its components, with special attention to congressional elections, the committee structure, the impact of institutional reform and the influence of bicameralism. General Education Requirements: Ethics and Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or Junior or Senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Even Years Credits: 3
	POS 354 - The U.S. Presidency Examines presidential leadership in contemporary American politics. Devotes special attention to institutional, constitutional, and historical influences on the presidency. Other topics include: presidential decision-making, psychological aspects of the presidency, and the sources of cooperation and conflict between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government. Analysis of the president’s role in foreign and domestic policy. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 355 - Music and Politics in the American Context Examines the intersections and interactions of music and politics in the United States. Topics of investigation and discussion include (but are not limited to): the role of music in society, why the state might be interested in music, how music contributes to identity, and the political messages and activism produced by music. General Education Requirements: Artistic and Creative Expression Prerequisites: POS 100 or permission of instructor. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	POS 357 - Film and Politics Examines the relationship between film and politics. Explores the portrayal of American and international politics in film through a series of common, politically-relevant themes. Also considers how film has been used as an outlet for political messages, as well as an entertainment medium, and examines how political films inform society’s understanding of politics. General Education Requirements: Artistic and Creative Expression Prerequisites: None. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 359 - Topics in American Government Offers a detailed examination of a selected topic in American politics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: POS 100. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 362 - Maine Government Analyzes changes in the institutions and policies of the state of Maine in recent times. Covers the role of Maine in the federal system, the impact of institutional and organizational reform, and state policymaking. Prerequisites: POS 100 or Junior or Senior Standing Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 363 - Urban Government and Politics Examines the politics and government of urban areas in the United States, in both historical and contemporary contexts. Topics of investigation and discussion include (but are not limited to): the functions and roles of American cities, the responsibilities of urban governments, the issue of power in the metropolis, the American federal system and urban governance, race, ethnicity, and class in urban America, and the challenges facing contemporary urban society. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or permission of instructor. Course Typically Offered: Spring, Summer Credits: 3
	POS 368 - China Examines contemporary China; its recent history, political system, economic and social development, and China’s relations with its Asian neighbors and the United States. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Prerequisites: One HTY or POS course at the 200 level or above. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 369 - Topics in International Relations Offers a detailed examination of a selected topic in International Relations. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: POS 120 Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 370 - International Terrorism: The Challenges for America Analyzes the impact of international terrorism on U.S. national security and the ethical dilemmas arising from counter-terrorism. Topics include the evolution of terrorism, especially in Afghanistan and the Middle East; the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; and the formulation of U.S. national security strategy. General Education Requirements: Ethics and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Prerequisites: POS 100 or POS 120 or permission. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 374 - American Foreign Policy American foreign policy and the major international problems facing the United States today. Special focus will be on United States relations with Europe, Russia, Japan and the Third World. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Prerequisites: POS 100 or POS 120. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 376 - Politics of the Global Economy The world is deeply integrated through cross-border financial flows and international economic institutions. This course introduces the field of international political economy, the study of the interplay between domestic and international politics and economic policies and developments and examines the politics of trade, sovereign debt, finance, multinational corporations, global economic inequality and more. This course can be counted either in the International Relations or Comparative Politics subfield within Political Science. General Education Requirements: Cultural Diversity/International Perspectives and Social Context and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 120 Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 378 - Theories of War and Peace This course is the study of the causes and effects of the major events of conflict and cooperation which occur among and across countries. The major theme is understanding patterns of war and peace through an examination of foreign policy decision-making, international trade and investment, economic development, human rights, global environmental concerns, terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, globalization, and international organizations and institutions. Prerequisites: POS 120 or INA 101 or Permission Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	POS 380 - Interest Groups and American Politics Every day millions of Americans act politically to defend their interests, yet Americans as a whole overwhelmingly have a negative opinion of interest groups and their involvement in the political process. How can this be? This course will examine the purposes, roles, and ultimately the results produced by interest groups in the American political process. Students will finish with a much more complete understanding of the place that interest groups occupy in the American political universe. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or permission of instructor. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Odd Years Credits: 3
	POS 381 - Political Parties and Elections Analyzes the development of, and current theories regarding, political parties and elections in American politics. Topics include theories of party realignment, voting behavior, party composition and behavior, and the relationship between parties, elections and democracy. Covers both presidential and congressional elections. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Summer & Fall, Even Years Credits: 3
	POS 383 - American Constitutional Law Examines the evolving nature of the U.S. Constitution through consideration of major Supreme Court decisions in areas such as federalism, legislative power, executive authority and judicial autonomy. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	POS 384 - American Civil Liberties Examines the tension between individual rights and the social order through consideration of major Supreme Court decisions involving the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment. General Education Requirements: Ethics and Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 385 - Women and Politics Examines women as citizens and leaders and also examines movements to increase women’s public role in U.S. politics. Considers racial, ethnic, partisan and class dimensions of those movements and political activities and the influence of government policies on gender relations. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Writing Intensive Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Odd Years Credits: 3
	POS 386 - Religion and Politics in the United States Religion has historically played a substantial role in the government and politics of the United States, and continues to do so in contemporary American society. Focuses on the intersections and interactions between religion and politics in the United States. Areas of examination include, (but are not limited to): religion and American culture, religion and the Constitution, religion and public policy, religion and individual political behavior, and religion and violence in the United States. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or permission of instructor. Course Typically Offered: Spring, Even Years Credits: 3
	POS 453 - Political Behavior and Participation Looks at which citizens get involved in politics and why they do so. Examines theories involving individual choice and resources, community organizations, interest group activities and social movements. Additional topics include participation and democratic theory, historical reasons why participation has changed and proposals to increase citizen involvement in politics. General Education Requirements: Writing Intensive Prerequisites: Junior or Senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 460 - Seminar in American Politics Seminar in American Politics. Detailed examination of a topic or set of topics in American politics. Can be repeated for credit so long as it is a different seminar. Prerequisites: POS 100 or permission of the instructor. Course Typically Offered: Variable. Credits: 3
	POS 467 - African Politics Analysis of the transition from colonialism to independence in selected countries of Sub-Saharan Africa. Discussion of nation-building, the one-party system, military intervention in politics, and neo-colonialism. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions, Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives and Writing Intensive Prerequisites: 6 hours of Political Science. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 470 - International Law Examines international legal principles relating to state territory and jurisdiction, the oceans, human rights and war. Prerequisites: Junior Standing, POS 120 or POS 374 or POS 241 Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 474 - Conduct of Foreign Policy Examines the formulation and implementation of American foreign policy. Special focus will be placed on American Political culture; Presidential and congressional powers in foreign policy; government bureaucracies, such as the Departments of State, Defense and Treasury; and conceptual and theoretical approaches to policy making. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or POS 120 and junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 475 - International Security Examines national and international factors affecting the survival and security of states. Topics include components and use of military power, arms control and proliferation, the cause and resolution of conflict, negotiation and decision-making processes and structures. General Education Requirements: Social Contexts and Institutions and Cultural Diversity and International Perspectives Prerequisites: POS 100 or POS 120 and junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 476 - Seminar in World Politics A topical survey of conceptual and theoretical developments in the field of world politics. Examination of these developments in the context of contemporary issues and controversies will be emphasized. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: POS 100 or POS 120 and junior or senior standing. Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 484 - The American Constitution and Criminal Due Process Examines the development of Supreme Court doctrines governing the jurisprudence of constitutional rights afforded the criminally accused. Areas examined include the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 8th Amendments to the Constitution and their applicability to the states via the 14th Amendment. General Education Requirements: Ethics and Social Contexts and Institutions Prerequisites: POS 100 or junior standing Course Typically Offered: Variable Credits: 3
	POS 487 - SL: Practicum in Engaged Policy Studies I Focuses upon the critical application of analytical research skills to a community policy issue. Examines different conceptions of community engagement and the university’s role in serving the community. Culminates with design of an engaged research project, with a community-based organization or policy outlet serving as a research partner. The results of this research will be shared publicly with the general public and will shape and inform future policy thinking and action on this issue or challenge. Designed to be taken as the initial course in a two-course sequence prior to POS 488, Practicum in Engaged Policy Studies II, which will be offered the following semester. This course is a UMaine service-learning designated course. General Education Requirements: Writing Intensive Requirement Successful completion of both POS 487 and POS 488 satisfies the General Education Capstone Experience. Prerequisites: Junior or Senior Standing Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	POS 488 - SL: Practicum in Engaged Policy Studies II Focuses upon the critical application of analytical research skills to a community policy issue. Examines different conceptions of community engagement and the university’s role in serving the community. Involved conducting research and analysis in collaboration with a community partner, and crafting an original policy report on a community issue. Designed to be taken sequentially after POS 487, “Practicum in Engaged Policy Studies I”. General Education Requirements: Writing Intensive Successful completion of both POS 487 and POS 488 satisfies the Capstone Experience Requirement. Prerequisites: A grade of B or better in POS 487 Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	POS 493 - American Politics Internship Provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in a department or agency at the national, state, or local level, or to conduct a major research project. Reports and a research paper are normally required for an agency internship. Prerequisites: Permission. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 3, 6 or 9
	POS 495 - Congressional Internship Assignment to the Washington, D.C. office of a member of Congress, normally from the Maine delegation, during the spring semester. Readings and reports are required in addition to performing staff work in a congressional office. The internship is open to juniors and seniors on a competitive basis; applications and interviews are conducted each fall to fill the spring internship positions. Prerequisites: Permission. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 6 or 9
	POS 496 - International Affairs Internship Provides students the opportunity to gain experience in a department or agency, either in the United States or abroad, that deals with international affairs. Students may not receive more than 9 credit hours for this internship. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, and Summer Credits: 3, 6 or 9
	POS 498 - Independent Study in Political Science Provides students the opportunity to work closely with an individual member of the faculty, either as a research assistant or as the author of a major independent study paper. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Permission. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 1-3
	POS 499 - Senior Seminar in Political Science Examines selected theoretical and empirical topics in Political Science. Assumes a knowledge of, and builds upon, a body of knowledge developed by students in the major and represents the culmination of majors’ concentration of study within the major. Students can write an Honors thesis instead of taking the capstone course. General Education Requirements: Writing Intensive and Capstone Experience Prerequisites: Senior standing and Political Science major or International Affairs major with a concentration in Political Science. Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring Credits: 3
	PPA 264 - Introduction to the Pulp and Paper Industry Considers the manufacture of paper from fibrous raw materials to the processing of finished products. Emphasis on papers produced from wood, non-wood, and secondary fibers. Recommended for CHE/BLE students taking the cooperative work experience within the Pulp and Paper industry. Lec 3. (Spring.) Prerequisites: Sophomore standing or greater. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	PPA 466 - Paper Technology This course will focus on the application of engineering tools to processes that are found in the paper industry. Examples include the flow of suspensions in equipment, filtration during washing and papermaking, and the drying of a porous web. While the processes are related to the paper industry, the method to apply various aspects of engineering to actual processes should be of interest in a wide range of industries. Prerequisites: BEN 202, CHE 360 or MEE 360 or permission Course Typically Offered: Not Regularly Offered Credits: 3
	PSE 100 - Plant Science Basics of plant anatomy, morphology, ecology, physiology and taxonomy with examples drawn from common agricultural and horticultural plants are discussed. Labs include hands-on investigations of local plants. Lec 3, Lab 2. Course may include field trips during class hours. General Education Requirements: Lab in the Basic or Applied Sciences Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 4
	PSE 105 - Principles of Sustainable Agriculture Basic design principles and examples of environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural systems. Describes the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, but emphasis will be placed on identifying management practices that a) biologically improve soil structure, organic matter content, and fertility; and b) minimize or eliminate the need for chemical interventions for control of insect pests, pathogens, and weeds. Rec 3. General Education Requirements: Application of Scientific Knowledge and Population and the Environment Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PSE 110 - Introduction to Horticulture Students will understand the science of growing plants. They will apply botany and soil science to produce horticulture crops. Students will work independently on hands-on projects to apply basic science principles in order to understand horticultural concepts including fruit and leaf morphology, seed germination, and plant growth. General Education Requirements: Applications of Scientific Knowledge Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 3
	PSE 121 - Human Societies, Soil and Water: The Unbreakable Link Considers the soil and water resources upon which human societies depend. Begins with a survey of basic properties and processes important in understanding soil and water resources. Ethical approaches to resource decision-making are introduced and used. Through the use of many case studies and examples, students are encouraged to clarify and develop their own personal values with respect to human use of the environment. Lec 3. General Education Requirements: Ethics and Population and the Environment Course Typically Offered: Spring, Odd Years Credits: 3
	PSE 203 - Weed Biology and Identification This course is focused on the study of weed communities in turf and urban landscapes, roadsides and waste areas, wetlands, forest edges and agricultural fields. Students will learn to identify approximately sixty weedy plant species and will know the principle habitat, life cycle, plant family and binomial for each species. Course may include field trips during class hours. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Even Years Credits: 1
	PSE 210 - Digital Landscape Graphics An introduction to 2D/3D computer-aided design (CAD) with a focus on landscape design using Vectorworks Landmark. Exercises relevant to landscape design and horticulture fields include topography manipulation, plan graphics, construction documentation, site modeling, and use of the software’s construction schedules and plant libraries. Prerequisites: ENH majors or permission Course Typically Offered: Spring, Odd Years Credits: 2
	PSE 215 - Vegetable and Fruit Production The course will provide students with a practical introduction to growing vegetable and fruit crops of local importance with an emphasis on organic and sustainable production systems. Lectures will focus on particular species, or group of related species, and will include information on cultivar selection, field preparation, fertility and pest management, cultural practices, and harvesting. This course may include off campus field trips during class hours. Prerequisites: BIO 200 or PSE 100 or SFR 100. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Odd Years Credits: 3
	PSE 216 - UMaine Greens Practicum UMaine Greens Practicum offers students a hands-on opportunity to manage a small agricultural enterprise focused on greenhouse production of salad greens, and possibly other crops. Classroom activities include a weekly discussion featuring topics related to heated and high-tunnel greenhouse production, food safety, and production economics. Students are responsible for coordinating all activities related to the planting, harvest, delivery, billing, and financial management of the UMaine Greens enterprise. Prerequisites: Permission Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring Credits: 1-3
	PSE 219 - SL: Herbaceous Landscape Plants The study of fundamental principles and practices of identifying, growing and using perennial and annual herbaceous ornamental plants in the landscape. Students will work with Cooperative Extension and Penobscot County Master Gardeners to manage herbaceous plant gardens that serve the community for education and demonstration. Students will participate in extensive outdoor labs and may participate in field trips. This course has been designated as an UMaine service-learning course. Course may include field trips during class hours. Prerequisites: Grade of C- or better in PSE 100 or BIO 200 or SFR 100. Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PSE 221 - Woody Landscape Plants The study of deciduous and evergreen trees, shrubs, vines, and groundcovers for use in the New England landscape; including identification skills, culture, and function in the landscape. Extensive outdoor labs. Lec 3, Lab 2. Prerequisites: Grade of C- or better in PSE 100 or BIO 200 or SFR 100. Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 4
	PSE 224 - Site Analysis, Grading and Drainage An introduction to the landscape design site planning process, this course introduces students to reading the landscape in topographic map form and the principles of site manipulation to control hydrological function. Topics and exercises include recognizing existing site hydrology, directing surface water flow around structures and through subsurface systems, layout and grading for circulation, calculating cut and fill, retaining wall design and slope design. Course may include field trips outside of class on weekdays. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in PSE 100 or permission Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 3
	PSE 227 - Landscape Design I The first Landscape Design course in a series of two. An introduction to fundamental principles and practices of landscape design including hand graphics techniques, design process, design composition, development of space, hardscape construction materials and basic planting design. Prerequisites: Environmental Horticulture Major or Permission Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 4
	PSE 260 - Pesticide Applicator Certification Prepares students for careers in horticulture, agriculture, forestry, and biological sciences in which pesticides are applied. Students must pass two written exams and are expected to obtain a private applicator license for the state of Maine. Students who enroll for a second semester must pass two commodity exams to earn another credit for the course. Prerequisites: BTY-BS Major or EES-BS Major or ENV-BS Major or FTY-BS Major or SAG-BS Major or permission Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PSE 261 - Nutrient Management This 5-week course provides students with tools to understand fertilizer recommendations, calculate fertilizer additions from organic and inorganic sources for different soils, and develop nutrient management plans. The importance and goals of nutrient management and nutrient management in different scales and types of systems are emphasized. Prerequisites: BMB 207 or CHY 121 and EES 140 Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 1
	PSE 262 - Introduction to Cannabis Cultivation and Science The purpose of this course is to teach students about cannabis cultivation and prepare students for possible work in the cannabis field. The course will cover the history of cannabis, botany, production requirements, pest management, fertility, legal aspects, production of cannabis products, and uses of both high and low THC cannabis. Prerequisites: PSE 100 and EES140; Major in Sustainable Agriculture, Environmental Horticulture, Biology or Ecology and Environmental Sciences; or minor in Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable Food Systems or Environmental Horticulture Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 1
	PSE 263 - Plant Health Diagnostics The goal of plant health diagnosis is to identify the causal agent threatening plant health and to prescribe management to reduce plant damage from insects, pathogens and abiotic stresses. This course summarizes the methods and strategies used to diagnose stresses affecting plant health. Prerequisites: BIO 100 or PSE 100 or SFR 100 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PSE 264 - Introduction to Composting This course provides students with tools to understand the composting process including biology, feedstocks, recipe development and types of composting systems. Other topics include managing and troubleshooting compost piles, analyzing compost, and appropriate use are considered. Prerequisites: BIO 100 or PSE 100 or SFR 100 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PSE 265 - Soil Health for Farm Resilience and Climate Mitigation This course provides students with tools to understand the concepts and practices of soil health in different scales and types of systems. The importance, goals, and challenges of managing for soil health are emphasized. Both agronomic and environmental outcomes for soil health practices are considered. Students will build their understanding of, and ability to use, course information through weekly discussions and will critically evaluate the use of soil health practices for climate mitigation. Prerequisites: BIO 100 or PSE 100 or SFR 100, and EES 140 or permission Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PSE 266 - Small Fruit and Berry Production This course is an introduction to growing berries and small fruit, including strawberries, raspberries, highbush blueberries, and grapes. The course covers economics, site selection, soil preparation, varieties, planting and establishment, fertility requirements, pruning, harvest and pest problems through lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and one field trip to observe established planting. Prerequisites: BIO 200 or PSE 100 or Permission Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PSE 269 - So You Want to Farm in Maine Students will learn about various aspects of farm business planning and management. This will include how to evaluate farm enterprises, enterprise budgets and other financial tools, business plan frameworks, how to assess farm characteristics (e.g. soil quality, buildings and infrastructure, labor needs), climate change risk management planning, and marketing strategies. Successful completion of this course qualifies students for USDA Farm Service Agency Borrower Training Credit. Prerequisites: AVS 145 o PSE 100 or PSE 105 or permissionF Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 1
	PSE 305 - Problems in Plant, Soil and Environmental Sciences Opportunity is provided for specialization in specific areas of plant, soil and environmental sciences. Prerequisites: Permission. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 0-16
	PSE 312 - Sustainable Food Systems: Challenges and Opportunities This course is an examination of food systems through a sustainability lens, including the evolution of food systems over time, supply and value chains, food justice, food sovereignty, hunger, food and agriculture policy at the federal and state level. Prerequisites: PSE 105 or permission Course Typically Offered: Fall, Even Years Credits: 3
	PSE 325 - Turf and Grounds Management Investigation of the science and practice of turf and grounds management in residential, commercial, and public landscapes. Topics include grass biology and identification, lawn establishment, turfgrass maintenance, site analysis and improvement, designing for effective maintenance, mulching and weed control, plant responses to pruning, and the ecological tension between native and managed landscapes. Lab activities will be conducted within the campus landscape. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better is required in PSE 100 or BIO 200 or SFR 100. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Odd Years Credits: 3
	PSE 328 - Landscape Design II The second Landscape Design course in a series of two, this is a project-intensive course focusing on the culmination of previous course instruction where students produce multiple residential landscape plans with all supporting documentation. Students will have hands-on opportunity to produce plans for real residential sites. Layout plans and advanced planting design will be introduced. Students are expected to integrate course knowledge in soils, site analysis, grading, drainage, hand drawn and CAD landscape graphics, landscape construction materials and details, woody and herbaceous plant material, and cost estimating schedules to supplement construction documentation. Course may include field trips outside of class on weekdays. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in PSE 210 and PSE 219 and PSE 221 and PSE 227 Course Typically Offered: Fall Credits: 4
	PSE 360 - Agroecology and Sustainable Cropping Systems Students will learn about and discuss various aspects of transdisciplinary agroecology and sustainable cropping systems. This will include a synthesis of fundamental topics (e.g. tillage, irrigation, crop genetic resources, diversity) in the context of social and economic realities of contemporary U.S. agriculture. We will explore agronomic and horticultural cropping systems using local, regional, national, and global examples. Students will work collaboratively in on-farm context to assess an agroecology system, understand its complexities, practice research and practical farm management skills (e.g. biodiversity assessment, soil sampling) and make recommendations for improving sustainability. Prerequisites: PSE 105 or permission Course Typically Offered: Spring, Alternating years Credits: 4
	PSE 396 - Field Experience in Plant, Soil and Environmental Sciences An approved program of work experience which contributes to the academic major and for which academic credit is given. Students may work part time or full time for a semester in a job related to their professional career goals, including on-farm internships. (Pass/Fail Grade Only) Prerequisites: Sophomore standing and permission. Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Credits: 1 - 16
	PSE 403 - Weed Ecology and Management Ecological principles and their application in non-chemical and reduced input weed management strategies. Course may include field trips during class hours. Lec 2, Lab 2. PSE 403 and PSE 513 cannot both be taken for credit. Prerequisites: BIO 200 or PSE 100 or SFR 100 Course Typically Offered: Fall, Odd Years Credits: 3
	PSE 410 - Plant Propagation Principles and methods involved in the propagation of herbaceous and woody plants by seeds, division, layering, cutting, budding, grafting, and tissue culture. Lec 3, Lab 3. EES 140 is recommended. General Education Requirements: Writing Intensive Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in PSE 100 or BIO 200 or SFR 100, and Junior standing. Course Typically Offered: Spring Credits: 4

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Course Descriptions

PHY 400 - Career Preparation in Physics and Engineering Physics II

PHY 447 - Molecular Biophysics

PHY 451 - Mechanics

PHY 454 - Electricity and Magnetism I

PHY 455 - Electricity and Magnetism II

PHY 463 - Statistical Mechanics

PHY 469 - Quantum and Atomic Physics

PHY 470 - Nuclear Physics

PHY 471 - Nuclear Physics Laboratory

PHY 472 - Geometrical and Fourier Optics

PHY 480 - Physics of Materials

PHY 481 - Project Laboratory in Physics I

PHY 482 - Project Laboratory in Physics II

PHY 495 - Engineering Physics Practice

PHY 496 - Field Experience in Physics

PHY 497 - Topics in Physics

PHY 499 - Problems in Physics

POS 100 - American Government

POS 120 - Introduction to World Politics

POS 201 - Introduction to Political Theory

POS 203 - American State and Local Government

POS 220 - Leadership and Social Movements

POS 241 - Introduction to Comparative Politics

POS 282 - Introduction to American Law

POS 301 - Classical Political Thought

POS 303 - Early Modern Political Thought

POS 304 - American Political Thought

POS 305 - Late Modern Political Thought

POS 306 - Crafting the American Constitution

POS 307 - Democratic Theory

POS 309 - Topics in Political Theory

POS 336 - Government and Politics in Russia

POS 337 - Government and Politics in Eurasia

POS 348 - The Politics of Sport in America

POS 349 - Topics in Comparative Politics

POS 352 - American Public Opinion

POS 353 - The U.S. Congress

POS 354 - The U.S. Presidency

POS 355 - Music and Politics in the American Context

POS 357 - Film and Politics

POS 359 - Topics in American Government

POS 362 - Maine Government

POS 363 - Urban Government and Politics

POS 368 - China

POS 369 - Topics in International Relations

POS 370 - International Terrorism: The Challenges for America

POS 374 - American Foreign Policy

POS 376 - Politics of the Global Economy

POS 378 - Theories of War and Peace

POS 380 - Interest Groups and American Politics

POS 381 - Political Parties and Elections

POS 383 - American Constitutional Law

POS 384 - American Civil Liberties

POS 385 - Women and Politics

POS 386 - Religion and Politics in the United States

POS 453 - Political Behavior and Participation

POS 460 - Seminar in American Politics

POS 467 - African Politics

POS 470 - International Law

POS 474 - Conduct of Foreign Policy

POS 475 - International Security

POS 476 - Seminar in World Politics

POS 484 - The American Constitution and Criminal Due Process

POS 487 - SL: Practicum in Engaged Policy Studies I

POS 488 - SL: Practicum in Engaged Policy Studies II

POS 493 - American Politics Internship

POS 495 - Congressional Internship

POS 496 - International Affairs Internship

POS 498 - Independent Study in Political Science

POS 499 - Senior Seminar in Political Science

PPA 264 - Introduction to the Pulp and Paper Industry

PPA 466 - Paper Technology

PSE 100 - Plant Science

PSE 105 - Principles of Sustainable Agriculture

PSE 110 - Introduction to Horticulture

PSE 121 - Human Societies, Soil and Water: The Unbreakable Link

PSE 203 - Weed Biology and Identification

PSE 210 - Digital Landscape Graphics

PSE 215 - Vegetable and Fruit Production