Division of Humanities & Social Sciences - Available Courses

English

English Lab : Language skills

Lab 1 is designed to help students increase their English language skills in an academic context so as to be better equipped to handle college assignments and to build confidence in using English in both written and oral communication. The lab offers a comprehensive review of all English grammar and sentence structure, and focuses on reading, writing and speaking in a thought-provoking environment through the study of topics of universal appeal. (non-credit course).

English 101: Composition I

This course reviews the basic principles of paragraph writing and introduces the major rhetorical modes of narration, description and exposition through discussion of theory, examination of model essays, and writing practice. In addition, students are introduced to information literacy by spending seven two-hour sessions in the library, developing effective search strategies, understanding the differences between types of resources, and using critical skills with which to evaluate resources. GER requirement.

English 102: Composition II

This course builds upon the expository writing skills presented in Eng 101. First, it introduces students to the mode of argumentation by analyzing various types of arguments and presenting the essential tactics used in definition, cause, evaluation, refutation and proposal. At the same time, it introduces students to research paper writing by guiding them stepby-step in the process of forming an argumentative thesis, incorporating sources together with their own thinking into papers, and documenting sources. GER requirement. Prereq: English 101

English 120: Introduction to Literature

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the literary genres of poetry, drama and short fiction prose, and to familiarize them with a variety of literary techniques specific for the analysis of each genre. Students read a selection of classic and contemporary works within these genres and engage in analysis of narrative, study key poetic techniques that make meanings happen and discuss critical approaches as part of an attempt to become better readers and a more critical audience, thus providing a broad literary basis for ensuing theoretical and critical discussions. Students also gain an enhanced aesthetic appreciation of literature as art and come to value its role in education and everyday life. May be taken as Humanities/Group A GER. Required for English majors (OU, Level 3)

English 203: Advanced College English Skills

This course aims to enhance academic skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing as well as develop significant critical thinking and research skills essential in an academic community and beyond. Texts on contemporary issues from various disciplines including newspaper articles, autobiographies, essays and peer reviewed journal articles will be examined. Close reading of texts will be the basis for discussions, debates, exercises and written assignments. Podcasts, blogs and short videos will also be used to practice Academic English skills. Themes and skill areas are selected to complement and enrich the learning experience of students of all fields.GER requirement. GER requirement. Prereq: English 102

English 204: Business/Professional Communication

The course instructs students in all aspects of professional communication including writing, reading, speaking and listening. It offers business and computer science students in particular opportunities for vocabulary enrichment and structural improvement specific to their own professional communication. Through the use of a variety of different teaching and learning methods the course gives students the opportunity to practice and improve their overall use of professional communication skills, both orally and in writing. The overall aim of the course is to enable students to realize their full potential in terms of the sophistication, relevance and fluency of their professional communication skills.

English 210: Creative Writing

This course aims to introduce students from all majors to the field of creative writing. It consists of three parts: an introduction to the practice of poetry, an introduction to the practice of fiction writing and an introduction to writing for commercial purposes (business, marketing, etc.). In these three parts respectively, students will practice basic forms of poetry, narrative techniques, the art of storytelling, and they will engage in projects applying basic rules of copywriting. The course will be interactive in the form of workshops including writing sessions, discussions, lectures and self-reflection. Through the course students will explore, develop and reflect upon their own writing style; practice basic forms of poetry, narrative techniques and categories in fiction; gain a basic understanding of the rules in copywriting; use different techniques of writing to produce writing to order and enhance their overall creative skills.

English 220: Introduction to Twentieth Century Poetry and Drama

This course introduces students to twentieth century poetry and drama through the consideration of selected texts from both genres that represent major thematic and stylistic concerns of the period. Students will be able to reflect upon the diverse directions taken by poets and dramatists throughout the century and some of the factors which have influenced literary developments, while critically analysing the components of both genres and their effects. The first part of the course will concentrate upon poetry and examine poetic techniques, structure, language and style and their relationship to meaning; where appropriate tracing similarities and differences in the works studied. In the second part of the course, selected plays will be studied, focusing upon dramatic conventions, structure, language and style, with careful attention being given to the performative aspect of the texts and influences that have helped shape twentieth century theatre practice. (OU Level 4)

English 221: Short Fiction

This course focuses on in-depth critical reading of and writing about short fiction (short stories and/or novellas) within the context of the traditions and innovations which have concerned these genres, and with respect to the standard elements of short fiction. Through the in-depth study of seminal short novel practitioners such as Herman Melville, Henry James, Joseph Conrad, Edith Wharton, James Joyce, Franz Kafka, Philip Roth, Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Alice Munro, students learn to recognize both the stylistic features distinct to each writer as well as the common thematic and technical threads that group them together. Whenever possible, readings will be supplemented with their film adaptation. (OU Level 4)

English 224: Post World War II British and American Drama

The course aims to introduce students to the systematic study of different kinds of drama by British and American playwrights from the period after the Second World War up until the start of the 21st century. It further aims to enhance their capacity to understand and think analytically about dramaturgy; to recognise the importance of the conventions of drama in the construction of meaning; to further develop their literacy skills so that they will be more critical and responsive readers and more exact and confident writers; to improve students’ understanding of drama as both a literary and a performance medium and the connection between the two; and to introduce students to the synergy between dramatic texts and developments in theatrical practice, and how each informs and shapes the other.

English 230: British Literature and Culture

This is a standard survey course that guides students to the study of British literature in a more historical and culturally contextual fashion. This course aims to help students explore the interface of literature and society, and to provide them with appropriate tools for more advanced contextualized literary study. Students will learn to contextualize individual texts, recognize literary trends and cultural modes, evaluate literary and social movements, and be able to follow and discuss the evolution of British literature from the age of Chaucer within each cultural frame. While the focus of the course is primarily on so-called canonical writers and texts, class discussions and overarching critical perspectives look beyond such classifications.

English 235: Introduction to Literary Theories and Criticism

This is an introductory survey of major contributions to literary theory and criticism, focusing especially on text and textuality, and especially the social, cultural and political aspects of textual interpretation. It will provide students with a basic theoretical background in literary and critical theory, while attempting to develop a coherent overall context that helps unravel the variety of approaches, theorists and technical language in a lucid and comprehensive way. More specifically, students will be able to define both literary theory and literary criticism and explain the emergence of these two fields as a discipline of study; display a comparative understanding of the theories; be able to apply theories to literary texts; learn how to analyze a literary text according to a given approach; become active participants and be able to make some personal sense of the theories and criticisms.

English 250: Advanced Writing & Professional Communication

The purpose of this course is to provide instruction and practice in the skills and strategies necessary to produce effective written and oral communication in any professional context. The course addresses topics such as persuasive writing techniques, formal professional communication (including executive summaries, legal documentation, letters and reports) as well as intercultural communication, professional writing in the ‘e-world’ and advanced public communication writing & speaking skills. The course is designed to foster skills development in the areas of critical thinking, presentation techniques, application of accepted professional frameworks to new ideas and use of innovative writing, with the aim of preparing students for realistic professional situations. Required for PS&IR and English majors. Prereq: English 203 (OU Level 4)

English 259: Postcolonial Literature

The course approaches contemporary literature by Anglophone writers from different parts of the world as an index both of distinct cultures and of cultural interaction and/or imposition, examining the ways in which the repercussions of imperialism and colonisation can be traced in these works. Employing the concepts and theory of postcolonial studies and literature, students engage in close reading of selected works in order to determine how major thematic and stylistic concerns are reflective of diverse intellectual and cultural realities. As a critical reading and writing course, it will offer students the opportunity to develop a deeper awareness of the impact of social, political, economic, and cultural contexts on human creativity, types and styles of interaction, and perspectives.

English 268: Women and Literature

The course examines the evolution of women’s literature from the 19th to the 20th century through a study of selected texts by Anglophone women writers. Coventry Patmore’s “The Angel in the House” (the only text studied written by a man) serves as the background against which students will study a variety of texts written by women writers that respond to and deconstruct this female portrait, gradually “killing the Angel” and working to create new fictional portraits and a new discourse for women and women’s literature while moving beyond the literary canon.

English 273: Introduction to Linguistics

The course Introduction to Linguistics gives a selective overview of linguistic studies from various branches, such as anthropological linguistics, cognitive linguistics, functional linguistics, formal linguistics, psycholinguistics, and second language acquisition. The focus is on language as a dynamic set of symbolic resources with many levels of expression: an acquired system of communication among the human species, an interactive system for expressing and creating both individual and socially constructed meanings, and an orthographic system for developing literacy. During the semester, the global, social, and personal meanings of language will be considered. (OU Level 4)

English 274: Applied Linguistics in Teaching Theory and Practice

PracticeThis course aims to introduce and analyze the fundamental principles and techniques of Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is designed to offer students a solid grounding in current approaches to teaching English as a second/foreign language, with an emphasis on practical applications to classroom settings. Students are expected to develop lesson plans, manage a classroom, design teaching materials for particular age groups and teach grammar and vocabulary as well as the productive and receptive skills as they apply their learning in a real teaching context.

English 275: Sociolinguistics

The course explores the general framework for understanding how human communities use language to say or fail to say what is meant and investigate the particular linguistic styles conventionally used by social subgroups. During this exploration, students are challenged to do the following: 1) Situate sociolinguistics in its discipline; 2) Acquire fluency in using terms & concepts to examine social uses of language; 3) Become familiar with relevant research; 4) Expand research experience and hone research skills; 5) Develop awareness of linguistic styles, our own and those of others around us; 6) Apply this learning to analyzing social situations, complications & misunderstandings; 7) Enhance preparation for entering the world of work, regardless of the profession. (OU Level 4)

English 284: Literature through Performance

This elective course encourages recognition and appreciation of the symbiotic relationship between artistic disciplines. Through a focus upon elements of theatre and performance and their practical application with regard to selected literary works, students will gain significant insights into how the medium of performance opens out new possibilities for the comprehension of text. Students will strengthen their critical understanding of literary conventions; become acquainted with diverse performance conventions, skills and traditions, and their practical application; gain firsthand experience of the ways in which the distinctive features of a literary text can be rendered into a performance and the factors that need consideration; develop their communication skills in a variety of contexts; and evolve into more responsive, sensitive and reflective readers and audiences.

English 292: Literature, Culture and Art in EFL teaching

This elective course will focus on how literature, culture and the arts can be used as pedagogical tools employed in the educational process, and more specifically in the teaching of English as a foreign language (EFL). Students will gain insight into modern theories of language teaching and experiment with learner-centred educational methods, which will inspire them to make their own teaching more creative and multicultural. The course will be interactive since students will be engaged in various creative activities, using literary texts, poems, films, music and the arts to eventually create their own, authentic and creative lesson plans and present them through microteaching to their class.

English 299: Teaching Approaches and Methods: Past and Present

This course explores the past and current theories of language teaching methodology. Students gain an insight into the major and minor trends in twentieth-century language teaching as well as investigating alternative approaches and methods. It aims to clarify the relationship between approach, design and procedure, and present a model for the description, analysis, and comparison of methods. Further investigation is carried out for each method in terms of analyzing its underlying theoretical approach, the specific design features associated with each method and finally the procedures which are linked with each method including classroom techniques and practices. Additionally, current communicative approaches are examined along with the post-methods era.

English 310: Design and Evaluation of teaching and assessment materials

In this course students will increase their critical awareness of approaches and methodologies in a range of EFL contexts and gain further insight in critically evaluating teaching and assessment materials. They will be given the ability to critically reflect on their own beliefs about teaching and learning, and develop their expertise in the creation of inclusive teaching materials at different levels and for different age groups. During the course, students will be able to synthesize all of the above, and create their own teaching and assessment materials, implemented through microteaching to their classmates.

English 320: The Other in Literature and Media

The Other has been a very common figure in literature as well as media, especially television and film. This course will focus, in an interdisciplinary fashion, on the various portrayals of “otherness” as they appear in diverse socio-historical contexts and from diverse points of view. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of written and visual texts and critically explore how Otherness has been imagined and portrayed in terms of gender, social class, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and religion. Students will also consider the figure of the “Other” in Greece, as well as the figure of the Greek as the “Other” within the context of 20th century United States. They will be encouraged to interrogate culturally dominant assumptions regarding “otherness” as well as read canonical texts against the grain, with a special focus on Western constructions of the “Other”.

English 325: Second Language Acquisition

In this course students explore the theory of second language acquisition (SLA) in general and its implications for teaching and learning in particular. The course aims to review general linguistic theory, explore aspects of morphology, phonology, semantics and syntax, theories of 1st and 2nd language acquisition, L1 interference in L2 acquisition, language universals, error analysis, language variations and disorders, sociolinguistics, bilingualism, and application of theory to 2nd language teaching methodology.

English 340: Comparative Literature

The course aims to engage students in a comparative study of literary representations of sexuality from antiquity to present times. Terms such as ‘sex’ and ‘sexuality’ are often used interchangeably, without considering their many different connotative meanings at different historical periods, or in different cultural contexts. The course is divided into three parts: a) philosophy and sexuality, b) class, gender, sin, and sexuality, and c) Freud, psychoanalysis and sexuality, which will bring us back to philosophy. Works in translation will help us reveal the nuanced role of language itself in terms of constructing sexuality. Prereq: English 120 (OU Level 6)

English 350: Advanced Writing: Writing for Social Change

The aim of ‘Writing for Social Change’ is to allow students to explore the genres and forms of writing that have influenced social change, and to practice writing for social change in today’s complex, multi-faceted world. Practical themes include; writing for advocacy; how to write to influence opinion and provoke action (use of language and understanding of rhetoric,) print and broadcast op-ed reporting, the language of politics, protest and persuasion and the use of citizen journalism (including petitions, grass-roots manifestoes, letter writing campaigns, open letters to newspapers etc). Students will be expected to write creatively and persuasively about social change and think about issues such as: what role should writers play in the framing and mediation of issues, social norms and negotiating the relationship between the personal and the political? (OU Level 5)

English 370: Literature and Film

This course will explore, in an interdisciplinary manner, some of the most important post-war literary and cinematic representations of conspiracy and paranoia on two main topics: the Cold War and the assassination of president, John F. Kennedy. Both events have been much documented and represented by seminal writers and filmmakers through a variety of aesthetic styles. Some of the questions that will inform the content of the course and guide our discussions include the following: what are the basic elements of conspiratorial narratives? Why do conspiracy and paranoia go hand in hand? How is history revisited in the arts? In what ways could cinema be seen as a more effective medium/vehicle for conspiratorial narratives? Is there a social function or utility in these texts? What are the strengths and weaknesses of this genre? And, most importantly, why are they so extremely popular? (OU Level 6)

English 380: The Business of Literature

The course will introduce students to the contemporary mechanics of literary production and to the forces making a book available, promoting it to a best seller, or silencing it. More specifically, it will focus on the changing market conditions for literature, both in a historical perspective and on the basis of selected case-studies. Students will discuss literature within a social and business frame and approach literary production in particular as a revealing cultural phenomenon in the context of a given socioeconomic reality. In doing so, students will sharpen their intellectual and critical skills and become alert to the interdependence of various fields which are traditionally considered separately. In addition, they will address and challenge underpinning canonical practices and biases.

English 390: Senior Thesis I

This is the first part of a course in which the students are required to write an 8,000-word thesis. It forms a fundamental component of the BA Hons English curriculum, serving both its pathways, which offers students the opportunity to cultivate the abilities and skills necessary for the realization of a medium-scale research project, from the formulation of the initial research question to its final submission. Combining what is often encountered as either final year Dissertation or Advanced Research & Writing Skills, the course offers an integrative, hands-on and project-focused approach deemed particularly useful both to a wide variety of professional settings and to the advancement to graduate studies. (OU Level 6)

English 395: Senior Thesis II

This is the second part of a course in which the students are required to write a 8,000-word thesis, or a 6,000 word thesis if accompanied by a strong multimedia component. It forms a fundamental component of the BA Hons in English curriculum, serving both its pathways, which offers students the opportunity to cultivate the abilities and skills necessary for the realization of a medium-scale research project, from the formulation of the initial research question to its final submission. The course offers an integrative, project-focused approach deemed particularly useful both to a wide variety of professional settings and to the advancement to graduate studies. (OU Level 6)

Eng/Hum 246: American Literature and Culture

This course aims to provide students with insights into contemporary American literature, culture and society through an examination of selected literary texts and non-fictional sources which reflect the socio-cultural contexts of particular ‘moments’ in America’s historical trajectory from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. Students will be exposed to a variety of texts from different fields including: literature, the visual arts, political/historical essays/commentaries, and music.

PRACT 300 | Practicum

This elective course enables students to immerse themselves in real-life contexts, collaborate with community partners and mentors, and better understand the requirements of the community engagement and professional work, where relevant. It aims to offer students experiential and service-learning opportunities which bring together knowledge acquired in various courses in their field of academic studies and its applications in diverse research and practice-based environments, such as the professional setting, education, not-for-profit, and the arts sector. As such, this placement course prepares students for further independent work and gives them hands-on experience of various professional fields, better equipping them for the job market, while focusing on reflexivity, problem-solving, communication skills development, critical thinking and writing.

Communication

Comm 127: Communication, Culture & Society

Covering a range of different forms and contexts of communication (interpersonal, group, public, mediated, verbal and nonverbal communication) and using cases and scenarios drawn from everyday life, the course explores the ways communication and culture interrelate and interact, with particular focus on the workings and failures, potentialities and constraints of human communication. (OU Level 4)

Comm 215: Foundations of Contemporary Media

The course aims to acquaint students with the foundations of mass communication and the technological and social dynamics that have shaped their evolution. It will help students gain a better understanding of the evolving media landscape, the role of media industries, the effects of technological breakthroughs, and the ethical, political, and legal debates related to the media. It focuses on the fundamental socio-historical development in the media, both at the level of their role as industrial and cultural institutions, and in the light of the ethical and legal terms of their operation. Special attention is given to the most recent of technological breakthroughs in media development, i.e., the digital revolution, and to its transformative consequences over the whole of the media/cultural industry landscape.

Comm 217: Media in Transition

The course offers an overview of the historical development of media as industrial and cultural institutions, as well as the ethical and legal framework of their operation. Covering both print (newspapers, magazines, books) and audio/visual media (photography, cinema, sound-recording, radio, television, internet, mobile media) the course explores how changes in communication technology interrelate with the changing roles and fortunes of media industries and media audiences/users, and pays special attention to the digital revolution and to its transformative consequences over the whole of the media/cultural industry landscape. (OU Level 5)

Comm 219: Introduction  to Film Studies

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the study of the cinematic experience from the perspective of those who create films and those who consume them. Students are expected to gain insight into all the stages of filmmaking, from developing the script, to visualizing their stories, organizing and executing the film production, and editing their images and sounds into a final audiovisual product, while discussing abstract questions of history, philosophy, and art. In order to complete their introduction to psychocinematics, students work with the science behind cinematic arts, and investigate the question: “Do we all “see” the same story on screen, and, if not, what makes our responses different?”

Comm 227: Media Theory

The course covers the major theoretical perspectives that have shaped the field of media studies. Through the examination of their distinctive insights, concepts and problematics, the course emphasis is on the comprehension and evaluation of the contribution these perspectives had to the understanding of media and media-saturated modern society. The theories are presented and discussed in their historical and ideological context, aiming at developing a critical understanding of their viewpoint and import. (OU Level 5)

Comm 233: Introduction to Journalism

The course provides students with an overview of the fundamental concepts of journalism. It will bring them closer to the profession of journalism by engaging them with work across all media platforms – print, broadcast and online – and helping them to acquire basic journalistic skills. Students will explore the profession of journalism both at a theoretical but also at a highly practical level and will discover new ways to tell a story. Techniques, methods and models guiding the contemporary practice of journalism will be given particular emphasis. (OU Level 5)

Comm 270: Digital Content and Storytelling

This course explores the world of online content and storytelling through a variety of digital and social media. Students gain insight into the uses and strengths of each medium –from Facebook and TikTok to blogs and podcasts-, as they learn to convey their messages through appropriate channels. Using selected case studies and best practices and via hands-on workshops, they will work together to identify common mistakes made in the digital world today, while realizing the endless possibilities it offers in order for them to reach their audience in the most impactful way. Applying the rules of storytelling, students will familiarize themselves with developing content for the various platforms and realizing the potential each piece of content holds.

Comm 315: Intercultural Understanding and Communication

This course aims to introduce students to a rounded understanding of how interactions between people from different cultural backgrounds take place and the influences that affect such processes. In today’s globalized world this seems to be central to our existence as increased cross-cultural contact and exchange has become the norm. Drawing on case studies from diverse social and cultural contexts, students will acquire knowledge and skills for more effective intercultural communication understanding and practices. It provides students with basic knowledge on how communication practices are patterned by culture, helping them to acquire a reflexive approach to their own cultural identity and communication styles.

Comm 317: Communicating Through New Media

The course offers a broad but in-depth introduction to theories of the new media as well as the impact and influence of the new media on various aspects of socio-cultural life, including journalism, art, identities, politics, social issues, and so on. Overall, it adopts an applied approach by examining the various socio-cultural aspects of the new media in concrete settings and thus aims to provide students with an understanding of the crucial changes that most socio-cultural sectors have undergone due to the evolvement of new media. (OU Level 6)

Comm 327: Research Methods and Practice

In this course students are given the opportunity to develop an understanding of the major approaches in Humanities and Social Sciences regarding the design of research as well as data collection and analysis. It is a crossover that links to all courses in the curriculum that require either critical understanding of or engaging in research and of paramount importance to the thesis modules. The course is designed to provide students with research skills which are in high demand in a variety of contemporary professional settings, and necessary for their academic advancement to a graduate degree. It will discuss various research methods and in each of the methods studied, the aim is to focus on its practical applications and uses, examine in-depth notable cases of published research, and appraise their social utility.

Comm 345: Media Ethics in the digital age

The course introduces students to the key issues of media ethics not only as an essential tool to safeguard fair and credible News reporting, but also as an important element of the journalists’ professional identity in the digital age. Looking at ethics as the thread to connect the different stages and actors of this online transition, students will familiarize themselves with the ways and the tools the Media use to respond to their societal role, to find alternative funding models to use, and to perform better in engaging a diverse public while trying to face the phenomenon of disinformation. Through analyzing the principles of ethical commitment and the way they are challenged within the digital landscape, students will be introduced to the debate on how to reverse the public’s distrust in News and Media.

Greek

Greek 101: Beginning Modern Greek I

The aim of this course is to develop students’ familiarity with oral and written Greek through dialogues dealing with everyday situations and written material drawn from the popular media. Emphasis is on oral communication. Grammar is learned through dialogues illustrating everyday communication, while students gain practice by role-playing and acting out numerous everyday situations. The vocabulary used meets basic social needs for an environment where Greek is spoken. [Meets four hours weekly]

Greek 104: Beginning Modern Greek II

This course is designed to develop further students’ fluency in Greek. Emphasis is given to oral practice, which includes active use of the spoken language, without neglecting the written language. Grammar is presented through dialogues from everyday situations and written material from newspapers and magazines. Students engage in discussions on common social topics. [Meets four hours weekly] Prereq: Greek 101 or permission of instructor

Greek 201: Intermediate Modern Greek I

In this course emphasis will be given to oral practice, provided through both classroom discussion and presentations. More advanced grammar is taught using textbook dialogues and written materials from a variety of sources, including newspapers, magazines, books, and contemporary song lyrics. [Meets four hours weekly] Prereq: Greek 104 or permission of instructor

Greek 202: Intermediate Modern Greek II

Upon completion of this course students should be able to engage in extended conversations with native speakers on topics such as family, work, recreational activities, the environment. They should be able to follow a TV documentary or watch the news, and read newspapers, magazine articles and selected literature. Writing skills will allow for extensive prose, suchas narrative and argumentative essays. Students will also be required to work on group projects. Advanced grammar (passive voice, pronouns, imperatives, use of subjunctive) will be taught through textbook material (dialogues) and written material from newspapers, magazines, books and lyrics. Prereq: Greek 201 or equivalent (Note: Advanced Greek Language courses are available on demand)

Humanities

Humanities 120: Understanding Greek life and culture

The course provides an understanding of contemporary Greek life and what it means to be Greek. It does so by examining the practices and creations of Greek culture, as well as byidentifying and understanding the main figuresof Greek life and the political scene through time. In addition, it develops students’ intercultural and communicative competency so that they can interact both locally in Greece and in the global community. Indicative content areas: Modern Greek language (acquisition of effective Modern Greek communication skills for daily use), Greek culture (language, art, cinema, music and customs), the Modern Greek state structure (background, historical development, public administration, and political parties), figures and institutions, Greece as pluralistic society(the Orthodox church, family, community and values, migration, minorities), national identity (nation-building, ethnicity, and Greeks within Europe, the Balkans and the world)

Humanities 203: Landmarks in the Western Tradition

This advanced survey course examines canonical of the Western Tradition starting with the Bible and extending through the mid-twentieth century. Various themes are traced, such as the relationship between nature and ideal, the notion of truth and virtue, and high-low art and the hierarchy of the genres. Students read from prose and non-prose texts alike, and consider these also in the context of non-verbal expressions of the humanities (music, arts, architecture). Prereq: English 120

Humanities 204: Exploring Ancient Greek Language and Culture

This course introduces students to the history of the ancient Greek language, from its origin to the present, and to some aspects of ancient Greek culture. Students are developing awareness of and some knowledge in identifying the application of ancient Greek to modern languages as well as an understanding of the culture of the ancient Greek world through texts of Classical Greek authors in translation and other material. The course deals with ancient Greek alphabet and pronunciation, language contact and change, the connection between ancient Greek language and other languages (e.g. familiar English words, scientific and technical vocabulary derived from Classical Greek), and the relationship of language and culture. Knowledge of Greek is not required.

Humanities 205: Ancient Greek Genres

An introduction to the study of ancient Greek literature in translation, with particular attention to historical-cultural conditions obtaining between the late 8th and late 5th centuries which made possible the birth of four major genres in rapid succession of one another: epic, lyric, tragedy, and history. In addition to primary source readings (selections from the Iliad and the Odyssey, lyric poetry, the tragedies, and Herodotus), study of each genre will be accompanied by secondary readings on both the genres and individual selections.

Humanities 209: Topics in Mythology and Religion in the Classical World

The course provides a systematic in-depth study of the major mythological characters, deities and myths of (mostly) the Greeks and the Romans through the use of both primary and secondary source material, visual and literary. The approach will be thematic and we will explore the nature and scope of mythology as well as its relation to religion, history and art. Comparisons with associated mythologies of the ancient Mediterranean world will be in place in order to demonstrate the broader historical and cultural framework. The myths and religion will also be studied in terms of their endurance and relevance in the western world as well as in popular culture. Finally, they will function as a setting for the discussion of matters of spirituality in the contemporary world.

Humanities 210: Religions of the World

This course will expose students to a comparative study of five of the world’s main religious traditions, exploring those traditions through their literatures, while focusing also on origins, cultural contexts, histories, beliefs, and practices. Through reading, discussion, and visual appreciation of artistic renditions of religious world-views, students will gain valuable understanding of traditions other than their own, contributing to their broadened and deepened awareness of the world.

Humanities 221: History on Film/Film on History

Representations of classical myths and ancient history, of the First, Second and Cold Wars have shaped our understanding of our historical past. Often film has inspired people to learn more about this past. This course aims to examine how film has affected our perception of major world historical moments. We will spotlight key figures, events, literary sources, and cultural issues which have been subject of major films. Then we will analyse the historical and literary evidence underlying these films and appreciate the differences between the scholarly constructions of the world and the cinematographic representations. PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: History 120

Humanities 230: The World of Alexander the Great

The principal objective of this three credit course is to provide a fundamental examination of the legacy of Hellenism, anchoring the achievements of Alexander the Great in the larger history of Greek antiquity. The course will consist of segments on mythology and legends; history and geography; ancient literature; philosophy, and politics; art and architecture. The course will feature visits to archaeological sites relating to the history of ancient Macedonia and aspects of Alexander’s military campaigns.

Humanities 233: Thessaloniki, a city of faiths

The main chronological setting of the course covers broadly speaking half a millennium with an emphasis on the Ottoman period of the city when a Jewish majority coexisted with an Ottoman administration and a historically important Orthodox population. The discussion will also focus on the first half of the twentieth century, a period of major transformations as far as the religious identities of the city’s inhabitants are concerned. The course will be organized thematically and the idiosyncrasies of the unique city of Thessaloniki in relation to the three Abrahamic faiths (with an emphasis on Judaism) are investigated in some depth. The thematic areas chosen for examination are: the religious importance of the Ottoman millet system, the arrival of the Sephardic Jews, the Orthodox local inhabitants, the city as a center for religious dissenters, the periods of peaceful coexistence, the development of ethnicities and the associated periods of conflicts, the Holocaust of the Jews of Thessaloniki, its consequences and effects (a shattered community, the difficulties of surviving and returning to the city), the city’s religious and symbolic value through history and today. 

English/Humanities 246: American Literature and Culture

This course aims to provide students with insights into contemporary American literature, culture and society through an examination of selected literary texts and non-fictional sources which reflect the socio-cultural contexts of particular ‘moments’ in America’s historical trajectory from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. Students will be exposed to a variety of texts from different fields including: literature, the visual arts, political/historical essays/commentaries, and music.
(OU Level 5)

Philosophy

Philosophy 101: Introduction to Philosophy and Critical Reasoning

The primary aim of this course is to train students in the skills required for critical analysis of discourse. Its secondary aim is to apply these critical analytic skills to the activity of philosophizing. Accordingly, the course is divided into two parts. In the first, the main concern is with the validity of inferences. Students learn sentential and predicate calculus so that they are in a position to check the validity of any argument proposed. In the second part, the main concern is inquiry and to this purpose the students first apply logical theory to methodology (induction, hypothesis, abduction, explanation, reduction theory, definition, distinction, issue, problem), and then apply all these techniques to the discussion of two problems: the existence of God and the problem of mind and its relation to matter. GER requirement.

Philosophy 203: Ethics

This course is designed to help students develop their critical abilities through the analysis of ethical problems and to introduce them to contemporary ethical theory. Following an introduction to the structure of ethical problems, three classical approaches to the problem of justification are presented: moral obligation (Kant), the consequences of one’s actions (Utilitarianism), and personal virtue (Aristotle), respectively. The course also includes discussions of meta-ethical issues concerning the relation between fact and value and the problem of justifying and then generalizing one’s ethical judgments including the issue of moral relativism. GER requirement. Prereq: Philosophy 101

Philosophy 208: Philosophy of Language

Language is the basis of communication, thought, and learning; it pervades all aspects of our lives. In the course, we shall reflect on both the philosophical understanding of language and on the relevance of language for philosophy. The relation of language and thought is one issue, a second being the relation of language and the world (the issue of “meaning” discussed in connection with the later Wittgenstein in particular). Furthermore, we shall discuss what the analysis of language can do for philosophical problems outside the philosophy of language (knowledge, existence, what is “good” philosophy?). Prereq: Philosophy 101

Philosophy 220: History of Ancient Greek Philosophy

The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to the philosophical, scientific, and humanistic perspectives that emerged in ancient Greece, in the intellectual debate that Bruno Snell referred to as “The Discovery of the Mind.” The discussion of the origin and ultimate constitution of human life and the cosmos, the role of gods in human affairs, the kind of knowledge and education one needed to live well, as well as the possibility of gaining such knowledge serves as the background to the emergence of these new perspectives on life. The course presents various responses to these questionsas they were debated in the ancient Greek world by the pre-Socratics, Socrates and Plato, and Aristotle and his successors. Prereq: Philosophy 101

Philosophy 235: Artificial Intelligence

This introduction to the subject of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will have as its central subject the question “Can machines think?” The course considers the history of “thinking machines” and the current state of the art. Typical cognitive tasks performed by machines involve visual perception and recognition, understanding language and translation, diagnosing a patient, and playing games such as chess. The course asks at what point we may say that machines are intelligent (Turing Test); what is computation, what is computable, and what is decidable (Church-Turing Thesis); whether thought is simply a kind of computation and the human mind a kind of computer (Classical symbol-manipulating AI vs. connectionism/neural networks); whether there are aspects of human intelligence that cannot be transformed into algorithms; and the relation between AI and the building of robots and other “autonomous agents.” Prereq: Computer Science 101 or 105, Philosophy 101

Philosophy 236: Philosophy of Computing

The course will deal with three main questions: What is computing? What could computing do? What should we do with computing? In the first section, it will investigate which processes in the world are computational, be they analog or digital. The question “What could computing do?” deals with the limits of what is computable, both in principle, and given that the time and space we have are not infinite (complexity). The third question concerns the ethical and social relevance of computers. Finally, the existence of computers has produced various kinds of ethical problems, dealing mostly with access to information, e.g., privacy and surveillance (“big brother is watching”), computer security, hacking and cracking. The course will be offered simultaneously with several other universities in Europe and the US. Prereq: Philosophy 101, Computer Science 101

Art

ARCH 120: Architecture in Greece through the Ages: Ancient to Contemporary

The course will be an examination of the architecture created in Greece from the Archaic to the Contemporary period. Important examples from all periods and styles are going to be examined architecturally as well as products of the period that produced them. The students will be exposed to major architectural works from different periods, some of the most important of their style in the world and will be able to visit most of them, since several of the examples are in the city and the country of their studies. The study will start chronologically from ancient times, covering the basic and most essential examples of the Greek periods (Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic). It continues with the Roman, Early Christian, Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. The course finishes with the study of the revival of Modern Greek architecture after 1830’s, along with the establishment of the Modern Greek State and includes examples of Neoclassical, Eclectic, Modern and Contemporary styles.
May be taken as free elective. 

Art 120: Art Appreciation: Principles of Design

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the general principles of design, that is, to the formal elements in any work of visual art (painting, sculpture, photography, film, contemporary installation art, etc.). The course will be thematic and topical, and will consider examples from all periods of Western and non-Western Art. Included in the formal course work will be visits to local museums and galleries to examine firsthand artworks illustrating the different principles studied. May be taken as Humanities/Group A GER

Art History 121 Greek Art and Architecture: Ancient to Modern

This course will provide a compact yet comprehensive chronological study of the arts of Greece from ancient to modern times. The examination of the arts will also allow for a better understanding of the complexities of political, social, and religious over time. Key periods covered include antiquity, the Roman, Early Christian and Byzantine Eras, the Ottoman Occupation, and the establishment of the Modern Greek State. NB This course is offered on an accelerated timetable for study abroad students. May be taken as Humanities/Group A GER

Art 130: Introduction to Photography, from the analog to digital era

This course introduces students to digital photography and image editing. Students will develop artistic skills in photography through experience in creation, observation and critical consideration of photography. Throughout the semester, students will be expected to photograph consistently, present assignments and projects in class and develop skill in using photography as a tool for visual communication. Class time will consist of lectures, demonstrations, critique of student work, lab work, museum and studio visits. In addition, students will be exposed to key photographic artistic movements.

Art History 201: Modern Art and Architecture

This course offers a study of styles of the modern period, with special emphasis on the work of Manet, the Impressionists, and the Post-Impressionists who laid the groundwork for the art of the 20th century. There will be a close look at the social conditions and metaphysical concepts which led to the rebellion in the arts in the second half of the 19th century. The styles of Expressionism, Cubism, Abstract Art, Futurism, the Metaphysical School and Surrealism will then be analyzed. Prereq: Art 120 or Art History 103

Art History 202: Late Modern Art

This course covers the period from 1940 to the present, examining painting, sculpture, architecture, and allied arts both in the USA and Europe. Emphasis is placed upon the various movements and the plethora of concepts that shaped the artistic fabric of the West since World War II. Prereq: Art 120 or Art History 103

Art History 220: Ancient Greek Art and Architecture

This course surveys Ancient Greek art and architecture from the Early Iron Age through the Hellenistic period. Following an introduction to the nature of art, its various uses, and approaches to its interpretation, the course will provide a brief historical background for the major periods in Greek art. Each period will then be examined in detail, with particular attention to defining stylistic features, and to examining representative works in each of the genres (sculpture, painting, architecture, minor arts). Prereq: Art 120 or Art History 103

Art History 221: Early Christian and Byzantine Art

This course offers a survey of Early Christian and Byzantine art and architecture. It covers the period between the early 4th and 15th centuries, and considers monuments from eastern and western parts of the Byzantine empire. It comments on and compares Byzantine creations from Italy and Asia Minor, while concentrating on Byzantine Thessaloniki and other important Greek centers of Byzantine culture, such as Mount Athos and Mistra. Prereq: Art 120 or Art History 103

Art History 224: Modern Greek Painting

This course presents a survey of Modern Greek painting starting with the second half of the nineteenth century, when Greek painting acquired the characteristics of a European form of artistic expression. It continues with an examination of Greek painting during the twentieth century. Emphasis is placed upon the artistic movements and various schools formed during these periods, and upon influences from European and American art and their implications for Greek painting. Visits to local galleries and museums will provide first-hand contact with works of art being studied. Prereq: Art 120 or Art History 103

Art History 299: Greek Life and Culture Museum Practicum

This compact and comprehensive one - credit course, concentrates on Greek life, culture and heritage along with museum practicum. The material will be examined through visits to museums and archaeological sites, along with a number of lectures and activities that the students will attend. May be taken as a Free Elective.

Music

Music 120: Traditional and Contemporary Greek Music

This course will provide students with an introduction to the historically rich and varied traditions in Greek music. The principal focus will be on church music, folkloric song and dance, and contemporary variations of “lay” music. Discussion will also refer to the place of music in ancient Greek society. Knowledge of Greek is helpful but not required. May be taken as Humanities/Group A GER

History

History 120: The Modern World

This course takes its point of departure in late eighteenth-century Europe during the period of the Enlightenment and the French Revolution, and concludes in the late twentieth century with the end of the Cold War and the immediate post-Cold War decade. Course materials integrate social, cultural, political, and economic approaches, as well as aspects of historiographical analysis, in order to facilitate study of both the foundations of the contemporary world and questions relating to historical representation. The course also provides coverage of significant global developments in the modern era. May be taken as Social Sciences/Group C GER

History 201: Women in Modern Times

An upper-level survey which studies the evolving conditions in which women have lived and worked in the western world from ca. 1750 to the present. A variety of types of evidence, from legal documents to art and literature, will be examined. Students will also be introduced to contemporary theoretical developments in the larger field of women’s studies. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 4. Prereq: History 120

History 221: Global Modernities: World History Since 1900

This course examines global history from 1900’s to the present, addressing key themes and trends in the political, cultural, social, and intellectual landscapes of the period. While emphasis will be on interpreting the century’s historical trajectories, the course will also seek to historicize globalization, evaluate the concepts of globality and transnationalism, and study critical responses to globalization. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 5. Prereq: History 120

History 230: Byzantine History

A survey of the political, institutional, religious and cultural history of the Byzantine Empire from the reforms of Diocletian and the conversion of Constantine up to the fall of Constantinople. Special attention will be paid to topics involving civilization, theological controversy, and the relations of the Empire with the Arabs, Slavs, and Western Europeans.

History 231: Modern Greek History

This course examines themes in Greece’s recent past such as nationalism, modernization, economic development, constitutional government, territorial expansion, foreign intervention, etc. Readings form the basis for critical analysis of the causes and consequences of major events, of contemporary ideas and of leading personalities through classroom discussion and written assignments. PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: History 120

History 232: Thessaloniki: A City and its Inhabitants

Throughout its long history Thessaloniki has been home to many different peoples and cultures. The purpose of this course is to review the history of the city and to focus on the different ethnic communities which have inhabited it, including principally Greeks, Turks, Jews, and Armenians, among others. The course will consider the establishment of the city in Hellenistic times, its Roman and Byzantine periods, the impact of the Ottoman occupation, the coming of the Sephardic Jews, the effects of the Balkan and the two World Wars as well as those of the Holocaust on the city. It will include visits to such important cultural sites as the Archeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine culture, the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki, Roman antiquities and Ottoman buildings.

History 245: Foreign Policy of the USA

This course will provide a detailed examination of American foreign policy since the end of the nineteenth century, following a preliminary overview of American foreign relations from the War of Independence to the 1890s. The purpose of the course will be to identify above all the actors, doctrines, and institutional settings of post-WWII American foreign policy, both in a domestic and in an international, if not global, perspective, and to provide detailed analysis of select episodes in contemporary international politics. US relations with Europe, the former Soviet Union, and Pacific rim states China and Japan will be given special attention, while other regional zones of contention, from Latin American to the Middle East to Southeast Asia, will also be discussed. The course will end with a brief glimpse of the foreign policy of the current US Administration. 
OU Level 5. Prereq: History 120, Politics 101

History 301: History of Ancient Greece

This course presents a survey of ancient Greek history from the Minoan through the Hellenistic period. The course follows a broad chronological account, but at the same time strongly emphasizes thematic trends and various aspects of social, economic and ideological history, including such institutions and values as political ideas, drama, city states, scientific and philosophical inquiry, trade, colonies, daily life, and gender. A variety of primary and secondary source materials will be employed to explore better who the ancient Greeks were and what their legacies have been.

History 331: Topics in Twentieth-Century Greek History

The purpose of this course is to explore in detail some of the main themes in modern Greek history. The course will investigate such topics as immigration and refugees, war and its consequences, the right and the left in Greek politics, the city/country divide and the process of urbanization, and the Greek family and gender identity. The course will also examine modern poetry and literature, and traditional and modern forms of music. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: History 120

Politics

Politics 101: Contemporary Politics

The purpose of this course is threefold. First, it explores various dimensions of what political scientists call “governance” and what psychologists call “Machiavellian Intelligence,” namely those instances in our daily lives where humans, by their very nature, engage in activity one might call “political.” Second, the course examines different aspects of the formal, systematic study of political phenomena, commonly known as the academic discipline of political science. Finally, it considers basic elements of negotiation, from simple exchanges with neighbors to formal diplomatic relations in contemporary international relations. GER requirement

Politics 201: Introduction to International Relations: Theories and Issues

This course examines the key actors and issues in the field of international relations. It focuses in particular on various institutional, social, and economic issues of current interest. At the same time the course provides an introduction to the main classic and contemporary trends in international relations scholarship.
Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 4.

Politics 202: Political Theory

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to political ideas and their different interpretations in modern times. The course will also focus on various key themes and concepts, such as freedom, justice, rights, and sovereignty, and on classic modern schools of political thought. Emphasis will be given to expositions of theory in its historical, social, economic and political context. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 5.

Politics 207: The Modern Greek Nation-State

This course analyzes contemporary Greek society by exploring some of its institutions and structures as well as its sociopolitical practices. A thematic organization of the course allows for particular idiosyncrasies of the Greek state to be investigated in depth. Topics for examination are: the Modern Greek state structure, a civil society indicative of clientelism and populism,
public administration and the role of political parties, the Greek Orthodox Church and religion, the Greek economy and the European Union, and the role of geopolitics.
Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 101

Politics 221: The Balkans in Contemporary International Relations

This course starts by outlining the long-term historical evolution of the region of Southeast Europe in international relations, with a particular focus on the nineteenth century and the formation of modern nation-states, and on the two world wars and their consequences in the twentieth century. The course then shifts to the post-Cold War period, taking into account global, regional, national, and local perspectives on contemporary international relations issues. Special consideration will be given to the role being played in the Balkans by the United Nations and different European organizations and institutions on the one hand, and to the concomitant foreign policies of the concerned Balkan states on the other. The course concludes with an examination of the most pressing challenges facing these states and of the prospects for regional cooperation and peace in the twenty-first century. PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 101

Politics 229: The US Federal Government

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the basic workings of the American federal government, through a study of the Constitution, of political institutions, and of core values (rights, freedom, property, etc.). In addition, the course will provide a general overview of the evolving character of American political life from the colonial period to the present. Such phenomena and issues as lobbies, the role of the media, and the changing face of the American population (districting) will also be considered; so too will a rudimentary explanation of state and local government be offered. Finally, the course will introduce students to the overlapping methodologies inherent in the study of comparative government. PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: History 120 or Politics 101

Politics 230: Comparative Politics

The course studies and compares politics across states, by exploring several questions through research on similarities and differences among countries and within and between political systems. In the process, students will discover various ways in which institutional and non-institutional variables determine the answers to complicated questions like why nations thrive or fail, how culture affects governance quality, or what drives change within states and across borders. Country cases will be drawn from different regions of the world to ground students in the set of tools of comparative analysis, so that they may use these tools to further examine and link facts to the larger questions of international relations. The course will thus enhance student capacities to explain political phenomena, and eventually make predictions, using the comparative method.
PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 101

Politics 231: International Law

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the basic principles of international (public) law and to the functioning of major international organizations, and to delineate the intensifying organizational and rule-making activity which has come to be characterized as “global governance.” Students will bte acquainted with the language and the basic concepts of international law. The role of international organizations, political institutions, political groups, and actors will be a major area of study. The development of international law, its content and effectiveness as a system of rules will be the focus of most of the course.
Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 101.

Politics 232: International Organizations and Institutions

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the basic theories and concepts on international organization and to analyze the role of international organizations in the international legal order. The course begins with the historical development of international organizations, and then introduces the students to the various PS&IR and IL theories on the phenomenon of international institutional cooperation. The course then focuses on the IO’s role in the making, implementation and enforcement of international law upon nation-states and individuals, their overall impact in the international order and the question of their accountability. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 201

Politics 249: The Politics of International Economic Relations

The course aims at giving the students an advanced understanding of international economic relations. This is done by focusing on the following three aspects of the international political economy: 1) the theoretical debate on the history and nature of the international economic transformations which have been taking place since World War II; 2) the histories and impact of international institutions as key players; 3) the impact on communities of the dominant free-market economic policies of the last three decades with particular attention to the recent financial crisis. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 101, Economics 101, History 120

Politics 301: War and Human Security in the Modern World

In many respects war seems to be a major preoccupation of humankind. This course sets out to examine various perspectives on the causes, nature, and implications of war and genocide, as well as familiarizing students with the major issues and concepts associated with violent conflict. In addition students will become engaged with the dynamics of efforts to establish peace and resolve conflicts through an examination of applied theoretical frameworks and case study analyses. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 101, History 120

Politics 304: Women, Power, and Politics

This course provides an examination of the intersection of gender with politics, emphasizing the social construction of gender as well as the notion of citizenship and the part of women within a democratic polity. The course addresses the evolution of public policies affecting both men and women, legal systems and women, and the emerging role of women in state and nonstate political institutions. The course will also explore the challenge that feminist theory has made to the traditional theories of politics and international relations. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 101

Politics 305: Gender and International Development

This course explores the growth of literature about gender and development, particularly with respect to theories, policies and major projects. Aspects such as education, health, and economic and political empowerment will be discussed. The course considers gender as an integral component of socio-economic development at various, interdependent political levels, with a special emphasis on East and Central Europe. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: History 201

Politics 306: Contemporary Development Issues

This module explores contemporary research on international development and its various economic and social implications and aspires to enlighten students as to how development theory and practice emerges within an historical and political context. Students are given the opportunity to further their knowledge of different aspects of international development. It will also assist students in understanding the political factors of economic inequality in the developing world. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 101

Politics 321: US Policy in Southeast Europe

This purpose of this course is to provide a comprehensive overview of US diplomacy and involvement in the region of Southeast Europe from the end of the Cold War to the present. The course will consider the Cold War roots of contemporary Balkan policy, with a focus on the wedge policy in Yugoslavia, efforts to build bridges in Eastern Europe and to transform the realities of Soviet containment, the strategies of the Bush, Sr., Administration to deal with the end of the Cold War, the wars of the 1990s in the former Yugoslavia, and, finally, the unfinished business in the Balkans facing the current US administration. The course will also seek to distinguish between crisis management in the former Yugoslavia, and more programmatic economic and political assistance to all former communist regimes in Eastern Europe. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 201

Politics 332: Human Rights

This senior seminar will focus on the basic principles of human rights. Building on the foundation PS&IR students will have received from Politics 231, International Law, it will introduce students to the international and regional conventions and instruments which encode human rights. The course will cover the following issues: how human rights develop; the struggles for human rights; where these rights are encoded; and how to monitor that laws are being enforced. The course will also reflect on how international organizations reflect the values of human rights, not only in their monitoring and campaigning but also in their own practice. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 201

Politics 333: Diplomacy and Negotiation

This course considers the overlapping disciplines of diplomacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution. The course begins with an overview of the historical evolution of contemporary diplomatic relations. The students are introduced to different types of international negotiations. The final segment of the course reviews case studies in complex multiparty conflict resolution. Student evaluation will be based in part on participation in a practical simulation. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 201

Politics 334: Global Security Challenges and International Law

This module sets out to highlight the evolution of the concept of security (from State to human security and beyond) and the dynamism of international law and policy responses vis-à-vis a series of global threats (terrorism, threats to human health, environmental disasters, migration, financial threats). Students will be exposed to moral, legal and policy dilemmas highlighted in specific case-studies concerning global security threats and will be required to examine in depth and critically assess them. In order to fulfill these objectives, the main actors involved and the main tools employed in dealing with these threats will be presented and a series of primary sources related to the case-studies will be commented upon. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 101

Politics 335: Civil Society

The purpose of this course is to consider theoretical and practical dimensions of civil society, through student participation, critical reflection, and sustained research. Following a core definition of civil society, the course examines such relevant themes as empowerment, consent and dissent, justice, education, information, and economics. The course concludes with a series of activities designed to help students establish their own NGO/CSO. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. Prereq: Politics 201, Economics 101

Politics 350-351: Senior Thesis

An intensive, two-semester research project guided by one or more ACT faculty. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 6. Prereq: senior status and permission of advisor.

Politics 399: Topics in Contemporary International Relations

This course consists of intensive consideration of topical issues in contemporary international relations, taught by master instructors. Students may take the course more than once, provided the content is different each time. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. (Permission of instructor)

European Studies

European Studies 210: Foundations of European Integration

This module will expose students to the historical, political and institutional developments of the European Union. It introduces key developments, institutions and policies, examines the theoretical framework of European integration, and studies the European Union as a global actor, with specific reference to its enlargement process and external relations. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 4. Prereq: Politics 101

European Studies 211: The Politics of the European Union

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the major historical, political, and legal developments leading to the creation and evolution of the European Union. The course examines in detail EU treaties, institutions, and policy-making processes, and provides a critical examination of theories of European integration and enlargement. NB Study abroad, non-degree and non-PS&IR students only.

European Studies 321: Citizenship and Democracy in the European Union

This course examines the political systems of European Union Member States. The issues of democracy and citizenship in Europe are considered, and they are related with enlargement and the future of the EU as a political structure. The course reviews the EU institutional system, and the structures, institutions, and interests in European politics of a number of EU member states. It focuses on the process of democratization, and the way these members interact with other member states, and EU institutions. Finally, the notion of “EU citizenship” is analyzed, and is the debate on what kind of civil liberties, political and/or social rights it should include. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. Prereq: Politics 101, European Studies 210 or 211

European Studies 322: External Relations of the European Union

The EU is a unique actor in international relations as it enjoys more decision-making powers than an international organization and less than a sovereign state. As such the precise nature of the European Union remains problematic for traditional explanations of global affairs. This module will expose students to basic theoretical and conceptual approaches, focusing on the EU’s foreign policies (i.e., in the fields of trade, security, diplomacy, US-EU relations), and examining such questions as the degree to which collective EU action can and will replace that of member-states when it comes to external relations. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. Prereq: Politics 101, European Studies 210 or 211

European Studies 351: European Environmental Governance

The aim of this course focuses on the politics and economics of contemporary EU environmental policy in a comparative perspective. The European Union, over the last 30 years, has created a system of environmental governance in Europe. The course will explore this new system of environmental governance both at the European level and at level of the member state. Case studies will highlight the extent of convergence and divergence in environmental policy among Germany, Spain, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Further, students will consider the potential roles and responsibilities of civil society, sovereign states, and intergovernmental organizations in the ongoing quest to shape responses to the potential of the environmental crisis. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Politics 101, European Studies 210 or 211

Public Service

Public Service 299: Internship Project

This is an applied, “hands-on” course, aiming to help students understand managerial and policy practices of NGOs. Students will be posted in local organizations as interns, where they will work for a few hours per week. Apart from their job requirement in the NGO, students will undertake managerial analysis of projects as coordinated by the instructor (e.g., analyze the strategy of the NGO, perform policy and public value analysis, etc). The work in the NGOs will be supplemented by seminar-type classes where public and not-for-profit issues will be addressed. By the completion of the course students will not only have acquired some professional experience, but they will also be in a position to perform primary analysis of the environment in which they work. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. Prereq: junior or senior standing; permission of instructor.

Research

Research 210: Research Methods and Analysis

This a required course in which students are given the opportunity to develop an understanding of the research process and familiarize themselves with key methodologies and practices in Humanities and Social Sciences research. The module provides students with the knowledge and experience of applying various transferable research skills at conceptualizing, framing, exploring, analyzing and discussing an issue, in light of advancing their academic, research and writing performances throughout their study years and to a graduate degree. Finally, it is designed to provide students with research skills which are in high demand in a variety of contemporary professional settings. PS&IR requirement. OU Level 4. 

Social Science

Social Science 210: Introduction to Global Studies and Human Geographies (formerly History 210)

This course sets out to explore a number of subjects relating to the study of geography and politics. Students will be exposed to topics such as world/regional geography, cartography, geopolitics, politics and the environment, colonial/postcolonial geographies, and development, while the multidimensional and trans-disciplinary nature of geographical and political studies will be emphasized throughout. The course will also investigate such topics as world systems theory, cultural change, and globalizations. Required for all PS&IR majors.

Social Science 215: Studies in Media and Contemporary Society (formerly Politics 215)

This module aims to analyze and explore media representations, media regulation, elite-mass communication, media production in a global age, communication and media power. A comparative approach will be employed for analysis of different regional and national communications systems. A final segment of the module will examine the concept of mass society, media power and globalization. Examples and case studies will be taken from American and European sources. PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: Politics 101, Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101

Social Science 219: Individual and Society

This course introduces students to the theoretical and practical problems of social interaction in modern society. Contemporary social thinkers and studies will be used in order to explore and explicate the reciprocal relationship between society and the individual. Topics of contemporary interest, among them those of gender, social identity, deviance, and the mass media, are critically analyzed and interpreted. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. Prereq: Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101

Social Science 228: Society and Culture: Theory, Texts, and Practices

The aims of this course are threefold: first, to introduce students to the ideas and theories of key twentieth century social and cultural theorists; second, to invite students to reflect upon and critique those theoretical perspectives under scrutiny; and finally, to engage students in determining the meaning and relevance of particular socio-cultural analyses in both the context which they were written, and in the early twenty-first century. PS&IR elective. OU Level 5. Prereq: Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101

Social Science 234: Gender, Cultures and Societies

This course will address gender issues from the standpoint of the social sciences. Its aim is to direct students towards a deeper understanding of gender as a social construction and not as a mere biological fact. By providing cross-cultural data on gender roles and by analyzing strongly held stereotypes about them in contemporary societies, the course will focus on the cultural patterning of behavior and perception that may or may not support gender stratification and hierarchy. Emphasis will be given to the interconnected levels of environment, economy, social complexity, and symbolic systems that affect the differential distribution of power, prestige, and authority between men and women in different societies. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. Prereq: Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101

Social Science 323: Race and Racisms

This course sets out to examine various sociological perspectives on race and the processes of racialization. Students are given the opportunity to develop their understanding of the idea of race and key aspects and practices of racism. Students will gain insights into the evolution and construction of race in history and familiarize students with different types and forms of racisms. In order to fulfill these objectives in a satisfactory manner, this course embraces an interdisciplinary approach at both the theoretical and applied levels.
PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: History 120 or Sociology 101

Social Science 349: Contemporary Globalization

This course aims to give the students a complex understanding of the processes of globalization. We will first look at how different theoretical perspectives make sense of globalization, i.e., what it is, whether it is a novel set of phenomena or not, and what its impact is on our world. With the background of this theoretical diversity, we will then go into studying in depth the institutions and impact of globalization. We will explore how globalization shapes and alters the economic, political and social structures of societies, and what specific roles the global institutions play in this transformation. We will also look at the gender dimension of this claim. Finally we will discuss those political movements which criticize and provide alternatives to globalization. Required for all PS&IR majors. OU Level 6. Prereq: History 120, Politics 201

Social Science 399: Service Learning Practicum

The course comprises a combination of theoretical sessions (in-class component) and real-life case study projects. Having a service- learning character, this course enables students to experience in practice and better understand community engagement through placements and implementation of projects in local community NGOs, agencies and organizations. Some identified organizations for students’ placements are organizations that provide services related to health and care, education, environment conservation and citizenship & social activism. The key principle underlying these activities is the coconstruction of knowledge through student collaboration. Such a participatory approach facilitates the process of pairing up students across ages, backgrounds and interests and enables a shared, co-experienced understanding of place and community participation among the young people involved. May be taken by PS&IR students as a free elective. 
Required for English and Communication and Psychology majors.

Anthropology

Anthropology 101: Introduction to Anthropology

This course provides an overview of major themes and concepts of Anthropology considered both in relation to the biological disciplines (Paleontology, Ethnology, Sociobiology) and as the comparative study of human cultures (Social Anthropology/Ethnology). The course establishes the continuity of human culture from an evolutionary perspective and acquaints students with contemporary interdisciplinary debates on major issues. May be taken as Social Sciences/Group C GER Anthropology 210: Introduction to Contemporary Greek Culture and Society This course is designed as a navigation guide to contemporary Greek society and culture. Students are introduced to key features of public and private everyday life (history, politics, economy, education, religion, family, gender relations, sexuality, food, tourism, entertainment, music and dance, etc.). Texts drawn from a variety of sources will be used along with multimedia materials. Mini fieldwork projects will further enhance students’ understanding and participation.

Anthropology 210: Introduction to Contemporary Greek Culture and Society

This course is designed as a navigation guide to contemporary Greek society and culture. Students are introduced to key features of public and private everyday life (history, politics, economy, education, religion, family, gender relations, sexuality, food, tourism, entertainment, music and dance, etc.). Texts drawn from a variety of sources will be used along with multimedia materials. Mini fieldwork projects will further enhance students’ understanding and participation.

Anthropology 211: Theory and Techniques of Archaeology

This course offers a survey of the archaeological discipline with a focus on two themes, the material remains of past cultures and the techniques employed when studying archaeological remains. The course aims to broaden and deepen the students’ understanding of past cultures and societies, thus providing enhanced insight into modern ones. Emphasis is placed on the reconstruction of social structure, environment, technology, communication, and cognitive systems of past societies as well as on the analysis of archaeological explanation.

Anthropology 215: Methods and Practices of Archaeological excavation

The present course surveys methodological approaches to the investigation and interpretation of past societies with an emphasis on excavation practices. It examines the major frameworks including older and current trends as well as the regional archaeological context in Northern Greece. The in-classroom teaching is complemented by a practicum that also provides students with a handson, excavation and laboratory experience in the study of ancient artefacts and points at the different ways in which such experience can answer major archaeological questions. In short, it aids the reconstruction and understanding of past social, economic, political and ideological realities. Working both in class and at the actual field, students will examine important archaeological evidence from the site of Toumba in the Northern Greek city of Thessaloniki dated from the Bronze age to Hellenistic times. Five credits. Three in class & two in excavation practicum.
May be taken as a free elective. 

Anthropology 221: Ethnographic Accounts of Greek Culture

This course examines different aspects of Greek culture and society through the anthropological lens. Ethnographic articles on everyday life expressions in different communities provide the material for the exploration of the inner differences, the complexities, the continuities and the changes that constitute part of contemporary Greek culture and society. Some of the topics discussed in this course include the social and economic life of people in different regions of Greece and in different periods of time, gender relations, presentations of the Greek cultural self, processes of identity formation, the role of the church as well as of the contemporary nation-state. Prereq: Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101

Anthropology 222: Greek Folklore

This course provides an overview of the creation, evolution and theory of folklore studies in Greece (19th and 20th centuries). It will introduce students to the major folklore categories (oral literature, customs, artifacts of material culture) and their collections (archives and museums). Emphasis will be placed on the study of folksongs and folktales. The course will also address the phenomenon of folklorismus, the revival of traditional customs, and its uses in modern Greek society. Prereq: Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101

Anthropology 349: Intercultural Communication in Theory and Practice

This course visits the issue of development from the perspective of applied anthropology, blending material from culture, history, economics, and politics. The course features a distinct cross-cultural dimension, and provides students a strong basis for future studies in applied social sciences. PS&IR elective. OU Level 6. Prereq: Anthropology 101 or Sociology 101, History 120, Politics 101

Sociology

Sociology 101: Contemporary Society

This course will explore the discipline of sociology, with a particular focus on the key concepts and issues relating to the study of contemporary society and culture. The course seeks to establish a methodological balance between theoretical grounding and an applied framework as it examines the following thematic issues: social and cultural theoretical perspectives, globalization, power, ethnicity, gender, the mass media, and the dynamics of culture in the contemporary world. May be taken as Social Sciences/Group C GER

Sociology 201: Contemporary Social Issues

This course initiates students into the conceptual framework and problems associated with “mass culture,” through an analysis of that phenomenon. The course focuses on the analysis and interpretation of such contemporary social issues as feminism, race and ethnic relations (including internal colonialism), terrorism, and the more specialized cases of institutionalized and clandestine violence. The course maintains a comparative perspective and, thus, the above issues will be considered both in their first and third world contexts.
May be taken as free elective.

Psychology

Psychology 101: Introduction to Psychology

This course aims at providing a comprehensive introduction to the essential principles of the academic discipline of psychology by addressing such important topics as the function of the human brain, perception, language, development, learning, motivation, emotion, intelligence, personality, psychological disorders, and social behavior. The student is introduced to major theories of human behavior and is encouraged to assess critically the contribution and applicability of psychological research to daily life through class discussions, presentations and written assignments.
Required for Psychology majors. May be taken as Social Sciences/Group C GER for other majors

Psychology 120: Developmental Psychology I

The study of human development is the study of progression and change. This course is designed to introduce students to the study of developmental psychology and provide an overview of the major theories and topics in developmental psychology. The emphasis is on the pre-natal period and early childhood. However, later periods of development will be addressed in Developmental Psychology II. Theory and research will be presented in areas such as biological, motor, cognitive, emotional, and social domains from the prenatal period through early childhood. Required OU level 4.

Psychology 121: Developmental Psychology II

This course will focus on research and applications in the field of human development. Human development is the study of how people change and remain the same across the lifespan. The aim is to provide a review of the progression through the initial developmental stages (prenatal development and early years) that was taught to the students in Developmental I and to further expand their knowledge of understanding on human development from school years through adulthood. Areas such as biological, motor, cognitive, emotional, and social domains will be covered and these processes will be described within a theoretical and empirical framework. Required OU level 4.

Psychology 130: Cognitive Psychology

This course will help students to acquire knowledge regarding core issues, theories and experimental findings in cognitive psychology. The course intends to cover the main topics of the field of cognitive psychology as the main mental processes play a key role in human Behavior, thinking and decision making process. Nowadays, as the information people encounter and the situations they immerse themselves in are diverse, the understanding of the working process of language, perception, learning, memory, etc is necessary. Focus will also be given to the progression of the cognitive field and the investigation of real-world issues through controlled laboratory scientific experimentation. Required OU level 4.

Psychology 150: Psychophysiology of Behavior

This is a course which will provide an overview of the principles, theory, and applications of psychophysiological assessment and students will become familiar with current psychophysiological research findings. It is concerned with the biological bases of behavior and it can offer an understanding of psychophysiological aspects of behavior, emotions, and cognition to your foundation of knowledge and skills. The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to major psychophysiological measures, and help students understand what psychophysiologists do, how they think about psychology and behavior. It will provide an introduction to theory and research in major areas of human psychophysiology with emphasis to the major methodological principles in human psychophysiology as well as to the study of behavior and psychopathology. Required OU level 4.

Psychology 202: Personality Theories

This course will help students to deepen their knowledge regarding the formation of human personality and its impact on several areas of life. Also, the course intends to cover the main theoretical approaches, their strengths and limitations as well as their application to the explanation of psychopathology and problematic behavior. As nowadays, in the field of psychology, a lot of researchers and professionals suggest an eclectic approach, students need to be acquainted with the various theoretical schools and be able to apply basic theoretical information to real-life examples in practice. Focus will be also given to relevant issues, such as the genes and environment debate, gender differences and cultural perspectives so that students develop a holistic approach to the understanding of human personality. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 204: Social Psychology

The aim of this course is to develop student’s knowledge and understanding of key areas in Social Psychology such as: social thinking (which includes the topics of the self-concept; self-serving bias; stereotypes and prejudice), social influence (which includes the topics of persuasion; health and well-being in today’s societies) and social relations (looking at the topics of aggression, discrimination, liking and helping). Biological, cognitive, emotional and socio-cultural aspects will be discussed while presenting the above key areas. The students will also learn about the related field of Community Psychology and how its main principles and research findings apply to contemporary communities. Finally, research related issues such as ethics and methodologies in Social Psychological research will be covered. By presenting the main concepts, theories, research methods and key studies in Social Psychology, the course aims to help students evaluate the usefulness of the above in today’s societies as well as recognise the limits of generalising social psychological research to all gender/ethnic/cultural/age groups. Required OU level 4.

Psychology 205: Research methods and Statistics I

This is a course in which students are given the opportunity to develop an understanding of the research process and familiarize themselves with main paradigms and key methodologies and methods in Psychology research. It helps students understand the strengths and limitations of different research paradigms, various research methodologies and methods in Psychology. Also students learn a) about the main qualitative-research concepts (code, taxonomy, theme, theory) and b) about key statistics related concepts (populations, samples, variables). They are introduced respectively to qualitative data analysis, mainly thematic analysis and also to quantitative data analysis and in particular, descriptive statistics where they learn about identification of variables, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency and variability. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 206: Research methods and Statistics II

This is a course in which students are given the opportunity to develop their critical understanding of the research process in Psychology and build a solid ability to evaluate methodological issues in specific Psychology research studies. The students advance their knowledge of qualitative data analysis (mainly typological analysis, thematic analysis and discourse analysis) and of quantitative data analysis by learning about inferential statistics and in particular estimation of parameters and hypothesis testing and significance. Finally, the students acquire the knowledge and skills to design and conduct a piece of small-scale original research. This module provides valuable preparation for final year thesis. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 211: History and Philosophy of Psychology

This course aims to introduce students to major conceptual and historical paradigms and models in psychology, the history of psychology as a science, the social and cultural construction of psychology, the most interesting developments in the history and concepts of science and to the concept of the self or mind. They will learn about the philosophical origins of psychology, introspection, behaviourism, psychodynamic theory, evolutionary psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology and neuroscience and they will be re-introduced to major figures in the history of psychology, including Wundt, Pavlov, Skinner, Piaget and Freud etc. The ways in which psychologists and psychiatrists have investigated human nature will be examined, and major controversies in the field along with basic philosophical assumptions made in the sciences of human nature will be explored. Required OU level 4.

Psychology 215: Positive Psychology

This course will provide students with the opportunity to learn about Positive Psychology and study how humans prosper at the face of adversity. Students will be introduced to contemporary science-based methods for enhancing the well-being, happiness and positive aspects of human experience. Various findings related to positive states such as happiness, creativity, well-being, optimism, resilience, altruism are discussed and their implications in real life are examined. Major Elective OU level 5. Prereq: Psychology 101

Psychology 218: Clinical Psychology I: Psychopathology

This course will help students gain a thorough and critical understanding of clinical issues and specifically, mental health and illness, definition of psychopathology, diagnosis and various factors that should be taken into account in the process of identifying several psychological disorders. As mental health professionals need to be aware of all the important issues and ethics in the clinical field, students need to be acquainted with the main psychological disorders and critically apply theoretical information to case studies and real life examples from professional practice. Therefore, focus will be given to assessment, causation, risk factors and effects of the main psychological disorders but also students will be introduced to the basic principles of treatment and prevention strategies. Moreover, they will be acquainted with issues of stigma and social exclusion so that they are aware of diversity issues and their implication on clinical practice. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 221: Cognitive neuroscience

This is a course which aims to enable the students have a good grasp of the most recent advances, and a critical assessment of the literature in the field of cognitive neuroscience. Cognitive neuroscience is a rich field that draws on many disciplines from biology, chemistry, psychology, computer science, engineering, mathematics, philosophy and beyond. The objective is to provide a basic background and conceptual knowledge and illustrate the concepts and knowledge that structure the scientific study of cognitive neuroscience. It is associated with modules such as the one on Cognition and on Psychophysiology of behavior. The course addresses questions on how does our brain give rise to our abilities to perceive, act and think. It is a survey of the basic facts, empirical evidence, theories and methods of study in cognitive neuroscience and assist students in exploring how cognition is instantiated in neural activity. Indicative themes are: perceptual and motor processes, decision making, learning and memory, attention, reward processing, reinforcement learning, sensory inference and cognitive control. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 240: Forensic Psychology

This is a course which will provide students with the opportunity to learn about Forensic Psychology, a recent subfield of Psychology which emphasizes the application of research and practice in other areas of psychology (e.g., cognitive psychology, social psychology) to the legal arena. The module covers the history, basic principles and objects of study of Forensic Psychology. Some important thematic areas are introduced such as the forensic cognition (how offenders think), psychology of criminal behavior and victimology, the role of psychology in police and legal processes, assessment and treatment of offenders in forensic settings. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 250: Psychopharmacology

This is a course which covers the basic principles of psychopharmacology. The module investigates the questions what drugs are and how they influence psychological phenomena. Diverse types of drug use and abuse are explored. The course addresses questions on how and why drugs are used for treatment for psychopathological conditions, which are the mechanisms of addiction, what is tolerance and abuse. It also addresses the main and side effects of psychoactive drugs and how these are associated to effects on perception, emotion and behavior. Required OU level 5.

Psychology 255: Sports Psychology

During this course students are given the opportunity to further their knowledge of how individuals behave in sport and exercise as well as behavior patterns in sports and exercise settings. The course aims to introduce students to the study of people and their behavior in exercise contexts and provide an overview of the history, current status and future directions of this ever-growing field of study. Students shall identify and be able to critically apply principles and guidelines to enhance performance, help adults and children benefit from sport and exercises and cope with stress, anxiety, and arousal issues. Major elective OU level 5.

Psychology 270: Health, Stress and Adaptation

This course will help students gain a thorough and critical understanding of issues regarding stress, its role in adaptation and its effects on health and disease. As stress plays an important role in all aspects of humans’ life, students will be given the chance to better understand its manifestations influence on brain, the main mental processes, such as learning, memory, information processing, etc, human behavior and mood. Focus will also be given on moderating factors, coping skills and prevention strategies applied to individuals as well as to various groups and communities. Major elective OU level 5.

Psychology 303: Educational Psychology

This course aims to provide students with an understanding of a range of issues where psychological concepts, theories and methods have been applied in an educational context. We will look both at research in educational psychology and the educational policies that this research informs. Issues of relevance along the different tiers of education will be considered. The nature of early education will be addressed as well, with policy and research concerning contemporary debates such as the significance of play; the concept of learning readiness and the age at which children should begin formal education. Pre-school interventions and a range of special needs/developmental disorders & interventions will also be explored. Major elective OU level 6.

Psychology 305: Counselling and Psychotherapy

This course will help students to further deepen their knowledge regarding the prevalent counselling theories and approaches and psychotherapy research and critically evaluate them and apply related theory to case studies from professional practice.
They will also get acquainted with the interview process, the therapeutic process and relationship, the counselling skills and the ethical issues on both theoretical and practical basis. Focus will be given to diversity issues in counselling, such as ethnicity, social class, age, gender, sexual orientation, etc. Moreover, the emphasis of this course on experiential learning and personal awareness and development will facilitate students to better comprehend the role of the psychologist in the counselling field and apply the knowledge and skills to their practicum. Required OU level 6.

Psychology 310: Organizational Psychology

Through this course the students will understand in depth the influence and interaction between organisations and the groups and the individuals who lead and work within them and will learn to analyse how these processes shape outcomes related to the use of human capital and to organisational effectiveness. The students will also learn to critically reflect on the roles, behaviors, interactions and outcomes they have had or will have themselves while participating in organisations or institutions. This course will start by presenting the history of organisational psychology and the topics of study and practice for organizational psychologists and will then discuss different structures and cultures of organisations. It will continue by covering various processes unfolding between organisations, groups and individuals (such as leadership, motivation for work, resistance to change, persuasion, team-working, problem solving, conflict/collaboration) and also examine how these processes shape various outcomes related to the performance and wellbeing of groups and individuals and the operation and growth of institutions. Research designs and methodologies in organisational psychology will also be covered. Major elective OU level 5.

Psychology 320: Dialectical therapy

The aim of the course is to introduce the fundamental concepts and methods of behavioral therapy and to provide a basic introduction to DBT formulation, and treatment planning. The course also provides an overview of behavioral techniques and will familiarize students with the general theoretical context, as well as the main therapeutic principles within each theoretical approach. It will also consider the applications and empirical based evidence for the success of each approach and is designed to explore how certain approaches in psychotherapy can be employed to provide an insight into mental health problems, drawing on many theories and therapeutic practices to provide a better understanding. Major elective OU level 5.

Psychology 330: Psychology of immigration

This course will present demographics/diversity of immigrant populations, motivating factors for migrating, and the myths/stereotypes around immigrants’ characteristics and behaviors. It will then discuss the psychological experience of immigration in different contexts, as well as health, psychosocial well-being and psychopathology issues that may emerge and the services that need to be provided for addressing immigrants’ diverse health, mental health and social care needs. Through this course the students will gain in depth understanding of the characteristics, experiences and needs of immigrant populations and will learn to make recommendations to improve practice and policy affecting immigrants of all ages and backgrounds. Major elective OU level 5.

Psychology 340: Psychology of addiction

Students are given the opportunity to develop their understanding of psychological and biological aspects of substance misuse and addiction as well as the potential treatment methods. Other non-substance addictions are also discussed such as gambling, internet addiction etc.The course aims to teach students how to assess and diagnose substance use disorders and in short to provide an overview of the psychosocial and neurobiological bases of addiction, the factors that affect addictive behavior and also how to describe and analyze appropriate therapeutic interventions. Major elective OU level 5.

Psychology 350: SENIOR THESIS I

This is a required course for psychology majors. It constitutes the first term of a year-long research project, at the end of which the students are required to submit an 8,000-word thesis. In the Fall Term, they submit a 3000-word draft of the thesis, with main emphasis being the literature review. Required OU level 6.

Psychology 351: SENIOR THESIS II

This is the second part of a course in which the students are required to write an 8,000-word thesis. It is a fundamental component of the Psychology curriculum in which the students display their ability of formulating a research question which they research and write a detailed analysis of in 8,000 words. Required OU level 6.

Psychology 400: Clinical Psychology II: Psychological Assessment

This course provides students with an opportunity to develop further their knowledge and skills in the areas of observation, measurement and psychometric assessment, including the use of formal psychological tests. Also, the aim is to explore the theory and application of psychological tests as measures of personality, intellectual functioning, attitudes etc. and learn how to use certain types of tests, their advantages and disadvantages, and test reliability and validity. Additionally, students will gain insight into the appropriate use of tests, tests construction, administration of tests and interpretation of test results.
Required OU level 6.