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USMA Course Offerings for Fall 2009-2010 |
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| Course | Title | Credit Hours | Scope |
| CE300 | FUND OF ENGR MECH AND DESIGN | 3 | The engineering design process and the method of design are introduced. Principles of equilibrium are used to analyze forces on statically determinate rigid bodies and structures to include trusses and frames. The behavior of deformable bodies under axial, flexural, and torsional loading is examined. The concepts of stress, strain, and material properties are introduced and are used to relate external forces applied to a body to the resulting internal forces and deformations so that performance can be evaluated. Practical applications involving the design and adequacy of mechanical and structural elements under various loading conditions are emphasized. |
| CE364 | MECHANICS OF MATERIALS | 3.5 | This course studies the behavior of a variety of materials under normal, shear, torsional, bending and combined loads. The concepts of stress, strain, creep, corrosion, fatigue and material properties are explored. The course examines observed behavior in light of the relationships between the microscopic structure and macroscopic properties of materials used in engineering applications. The loading, geometry, functional environment and material properties of machine or structural parts are used to relate the forces applied to a body to the resulting internal forces and deformations so that performance can be evaluated. Practical applications involving the design and adequacy of mechanical and structural elements under various loading and environmental conditions are emphasized. |
| CE380 | HYDROLOGY/HYDRAULIC DESIGN | 3.5 | This course studies both hydrology, which is the study of occurrence, movement and distribution of rainfall, and hydraulic design, which is the application of fluid mechanics and other science an engineering disciplines in the design of structures and development of water resources. Hydrologic principles are applied to model and analyze the distribution and movement of rainfall in a watershed. Hydraulic principles are applied to analyze and design flow through systems of reservoirs, channels and culverts. The course makes extensive use of computer simulation models used in engineering practice. |
| CE390 | CIVIL ENGINEERING SITE DESIGN | 3.5 | This course provides cadets the necessary background to select and develop sites for civil engineering structures as well as review the work of others. Proper site selection and engineering have a significant impact on the economics of a project and long-term utility of the constructed facility. Specifically, the course covers the skills of determining site layout and access, establishing site contour and drainage, installation of utilities, elementary surveying, creation of drawings using a computer aided drafting package, and the development of environmental impact statements. In the theater of operations, this background is critical to the success of missions related to construction of roads, runways, base-camps and other engineered military works. |
| CE404 | DESIGN OF STEEL STRUCTURES | 3 | This course teaches the engineering thought process through the design of steel structures. The course synthesizes the fundamentals of statics, mechanics of materials, and structural analysis and applies them to the design of structural members, with emphasis on satisfying real-world needs. Topics include an introduction to the design of structural systems, design of steel tension and compression members, design of beams and beam-columns, and an introduction to connection design. All design is performed in accordance with codes and specifications used in current engineering practice. A comprehensive design problem requires development of a design methodology, consideration of alternative solutions, and design of an optimal steel structure to meet stated functional requirements. |
| CE450 | INFRASTRUC DEV & CONST MNGNT | 3 | This course focuses on the implementation portion of the design process. The management of construction is covered to include scope of work, rough order-of-magnitude estimating, scheduling, planning, progress reporting, resource constraining, and quality control. The roles of the contractor, owner, and designer are explained. The culminating design experience for the three course engineering sequence is a theatre of operations design where students work in teams to layout, design, and plan the construction of a complete base camp. |
| CE471 | WOOD AND MASONRY DESIGN | 3 | This course teaches the engineering thought process through the design of wood and masonry structures. The course synthesizes the fundamentals of statics, mechanics of materials, and structural analysis and applies them to the design of structural members, with emphasis on satisfying real-world needs. Topics include an introduction to the design of structural systems, design of wood tension, compression, and beam members, design of masonry walls. All design is performed in accordance with codes and specifications used in current engineering practice. A comprehensive design problem requires development of a design methodology, consideration of alternative solutions, and design of an optimal timber and masonry structure to meet stated functional requirements. |
| CE472 | ADV SOIL MECHNCS/FNDTN ENGRNG | 3 | Students will extend what they learned in Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering and design advanced foundations in this course. Topics covered are: slope stability, field testing, field instrumentation, designing braced excavations, designing piles and drilled shafts, designing flexible walls, designing earth retaining structures, and designing earth structures using geosynthetics. |
| CE483 | DESIGN OF REINFORCED CONCRETE | 3.5 | The course introduces the materials and mechanical properties of concrete, and the design of reinforced concrete structures. Mix design and strength testing labs develop the concept of proportioning constituents for quality concrete and provide a background in techniques of material testing, quality control, and sound construction practices. The study of reinforced concrete includes analysis and design of simple structures, resulting in an appreciation for the strength and serviceability of these structures. Current codes and standards are used to guide the practical design of beams, slabs, columns, and footings. |
| CE489 | ADV IND STUDY CIVIL ENGRING | 3 | The cadet, on an individual or small group basis, pursues advanced study of a research or design topic in civil engineering. The scope of the course is tailored to the needs of the project and desires of the cadet, in consultation with the Faculty Advisor. The cadet is required to define and analyze the problem, study the fundamentals involved, organize an approach, determine a procedure, perform research and/or achieve a solution, submit a written report, and give a formal briefing. |
| CE489A | ADV IND STUDY CIVIL ENGRING | 3 | The cadet, on an individual or small group basis, pursues advanced study of a research or design topic in civil engineering. The scope of the course is tailored to the needs of the project and desires of the cadet, in consultation with the Faculty Advisor. The cadet is required to define and analyze the problem, study the fundamentals involved, organize an approach, determine a procedure, perform research and/or achieve a solution, submit a written report, and give a formal briefing. |
| CE490 | TOPICS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING | 3 | This course provides in-depth study of a special topic in engineering mechanics or in structural, geotechnical, environmental, water resources, construction, or transportation engineering not offered elsewhere in the USMA curriculum. The course is intended to broaden the cadet's exposure to the civil engineering discipline. Course content will be based on the special expertise of the visiting professor or a senior civil engineering faculty member. |
| CE491 | ADV STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS | 3 | This course builds upon the material covered in CE403/453 to develop a better understanding of structural behavior. Matrix analysis methods, including an introduction to finite elements, are developed as the basis for modern, computer-based structural analysis. These and other advanced analytical techniques are used to analyze and design trusses, beams, and frames. Coursework involves extensive use of the computer as an analytical tool. Students use state-of-the-art structural engineering analysis and design software and Computer Aided Drafting software. |
| CH101 | GENERAL CHEMISTRY I | 3.5 | This course provides a solid background in chemistry principles and applications. It includes a study of the nature of matter, its atomic and molecular structure, and the associated energies involved. Fundamental concepts, principles, theories, and laws of chemistry are stressed. Stoichiometry, states of matter, solutions, kinetics, thermodynamics, acid-base and redox equilibria, electro-, organic, and nuclear chemistry are stressed. The course also provides the student with a strong foundation in materials chemistry, the chemistry of life, environmental chemistry, and military chemistry. A laboratory program is integrated within the course and is designed to develop an appreciation of classical and modern investigative techniques and to illustrate fundamental concepts. |
| CH151 | ADV GENERAL CHEMISTRY I | 3.5 | An advanced coverage of the concepts and principles covered in CH101-102 including a more in-depth laboratory program with emphasis on instrumental analysis. |
| CH357 | MICROBIOLOGY | 3.5 | This course introduces the diversity of microorganisms in all three domains of life. The course covers prokaryotic cell structure and function, growth, genetics, and metabolism. The course will survey five major groups of microorganisms: eubacteria, archaea, protozoa, fungi and viruses including ecology, their role in human disease and their applications in medicine, industry and warfare. Cadets have the opportunity to explore both a viral and a bacterial disease in-depth and present their findings in a briefing and a paper. The 18-hour laboratory program focuses on practical applications of concepts covered in class, with a particular emphasis on the eubacteria. The lab program culminates with a hands-on laboratory examination. |
| CH363 | SEPARATION PROCESSES | 3.5 | This course covers methods for the physical separation of chemicals. Topics include dew point and bubble point calculations, adiabatic flash, distillation, chromatography, liquid-liquid and gas-liquid absorption. Students are taught the significance of staging of unit operations. Heavy emphasis is placed on theory of operation, numerical methods of solution, and simulation. |
| CH371 | INTRO TO ANALYTICAL CHEM | 3.5 | The course teaches the fundamental concepts of analytical chemistry. Topics include acid-base equilibria, redox potentials, compleximetric titrimetry, separations, electrochemistry, and absorption spectroscopy. The course provides an overview of modern analytical techniques being used in various fields. The course emphasizes the development of rigorous laboratory techniques and introduces the cadet to computer based data acquisition. Cadet laboratory work is evaluated in terms of the student's ability to accurately determine the identity and quantity of an unknown sample. |
| CH383 | ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I | 3.5 | Organic chemistry I is an introduction to the relationship between chemical structure and the physical and chemical properties of molecules. A qualitative description of structure and bonding is presented. The relationships between free energy changes and equilibria, and between activation energy and rate of reaction are developed. Stereochemistry and isomerism are explored. The concept of the mechanism of reaction is presented and the relationships between mechanism, the least energy path, stable intermediates and transition states are exemplified by the reactions of the alkanes, alkenes, alkyl halides, and alcohols. The use of instrumental methods of structural analysis is also introduced. |
| CH385 | INTRODUCTION TO CELL BIOLOGY | 3.5 | The course will cover the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The course will present an introduction to biomolecules and detailed discussion of the cell cycle; DNA replication; gene structure, expression, and replication; organelle biogenesis; cell-to-cell signaling, and microtubules and filaments. Emphasis will be placed on research methods and techniques that have lead to our understanding of how the cell works. The course will conclude with a discussion of applications of cell biology to include cancer and immunity. |
| CH388 | GENETICS | 3 | Genetics is the science of heredity. It is concerned with the physical and chemical properties an organism’s genome, how the genome is transmitted from one generation to the next, and how genes are expressed in the development and function of an organism. Heredity is the process by which all living things produce offspring like themselves. This capacity for self-reproduction involves the transmission from parent to offspring of genetic information. This course is intended to develop an understanding the basic principles of genetics and to develop an ability to apply these principles to solve problems involving heredity. These genetic principles are built on a foundational understanding of DNA structure and replication, as well as basic cellular processes such as transcription and translation. Students will learn basic Mendelian genetics and progress to more complex genetic problems. These principles will be applied in the laboratory through the completion of a Mendelian genetics project. |
| CH400E | LAB TCHNQS-CHEMICAL ENGR | 1.5 | Designed to provide in-depth knowledge and ability in specific laboratory techniques in chemical engineering. This course is designed to get the cadet into the lab and learn by hands-on doing of each technique taught. Meeting times will be arranged at the beginning of each semester between the cadet and the instructor. |
| CH400H | LAB TCHNQS-GENERAL BIOLOGY | 1.5 | Designed to provide in-depth knowledge and ability in specific laboratory techniques in life science. This course is designed to get the cadet into the lab and learn by hands-on doing of each technique taught. Meeting times will be arranged at the beginning of each semester between the cadet and the instructor. |
| CH400L | LAB TECHNIQUES - CHEMISTRY | 1.5 | Designed to provide in-depth knowledge and ability in specific laboratory techniques in chemistry. This course is designed to get the cadet into the lab and learn by hands-on doing of each technique taught. Meeting times will be arranged at the beginning of each semester between the cadet and the instructor. |
| CH459 | CHEM ENGR LABORATORY | 3 | This course provides laboratory experience in selected chemical engineering unit operations, such as gas absorption, evaporation, distillation, liquid-liquid extraction, cooling tower operation, chemical reactors, heat transfer, and mass transfer/diffusion studies. Written and oral reports required. |
| CH474 | INSTRU METHODS OF ANALYSIS | 3.5 | A laboratory course designed to develop proficiency in the selection and use of modern instrumental methods of chemical analysis. Topics include atomic spectroscopy, molecular absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, infrared and Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry, and chromatography. The laboratory program includes a Capstone experimental procedure and methodology design component. Cadet laboratory work is evaluated in terms of the student's ability to determine the proper instrumental methodology to analyze a chemical sample. |
| CH480 | PHYS CHEM FOR LIFE SCIENCES | 3.5 | This is a one-semester course that covers topics with a special focus and relevance to life science majors. The major areas of study are chemical thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, and quantum chemistry of atoms and molecules. Some of the specific topics covered include properties of real gases, the kinetic theory of gases, the laws of thermodynamics as related to chemical systems, diffusion as a description of mass transport, rates of chemical reactions and molecular reaction dynamics, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, molecular motion, interaction of radiation with matter, and introduction to statistical thermodynamics. The laboratory program illustrates the fundamental topics through use of modern instrumental and computational methods. |
| CH481 | PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I | 3.5 | The major areas of study in this course are chemical thermodynamics with a special focus on chemical equilibrium, and chemical kinetics, introduction to intermolecular interactions. Some of the specific topics covered include properties of real gases, the kinetic theory of gases, the laws of thermodynamics as related to chemical systems, diffusion as a description of mass transport, rates of chemical reactions, and molecular reaction dynamics. The laboratory program illustrates the fundamental topics covered through precision measurements, utilizing modern instrumental and computational methods. |
| CH485 | HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER | 3.5 | This course includes the study of the mechanisms of energy and mass transport, with special emphasis on applications in chemical and biological systems. Coverage includes Fourierýs Law of Heat Conduction, and Fickýs Law of Diffusion, the development of shell energy and species balances, and the use of these equations to solve for temperature and concentration profiles in chemical engineering systems. An important emphasis in the course is the use of transport equations to understand species diffusion, convection, and chemical reaction in equipment design. This course includes completion of a comprehensive design problem. This design problem provides the opportunity for students to apply engineering science to the design of a comprehensive chemical engineering system. |
| CH489 | INDIVIDUAL RESEARCH I | 3 | Cadets normally make a commitment to complete both CH489 and CH490. Cadets will be offered a choice of projects and will consult with potential faculty advisors. The faculty advisor individually supervises the cadet in the research project selected by him/her and approved by the Department. The cadet, with the assistance of his/her faculty advisor, must obtain the necessary theoretical background, and develop the techniques and procedures required. Requirements include periodic oral and/or written reports over the course of the semester. At the completion of this course, cadets submit an interim report. |
| CH490 | INDIVIDUAL RESEARCH II | 3 | This course is the completion of the individual research project began in CH489. Requirements include periodic oral and/or written reports over the course of the semester. At the completion of this course, cadets will submit a final report (research paper) and present an oral seminar. |
| CS300 | COMPUTER SCIENCE FUNDAMENTALS | 3 | This is the first course for cadets enrolled in the computer science core engineering sequence. This course presents a thought-provoking introduction to key computer science concepts. Cadets develop their understanding of programming (to include modular design) and problem-solving skills begun in IT105, and build a foundation for further computer science studies by focusing on software, data organization, and other topics. |
| CS301 | FUND OF COMPUTER SCIENCE | 3.5 | This is the first course for cadets enrolled in the computer science major and field of study. This course presents a thought-provoking introduction to the key concepts throughout the field. Cadets develop their understanding of programming (to include modular design) and problem-solving skills begun in IT 105, then launch their computer science studies by focusing on software, data organization, and other topics. Exercises in the design and implementation of software systems are required. |
| CS350 | DATABASE DESIGN & IMPLEMENT | 3 | This course addresses the analysis, design and implementation of relational database applications. Implementation techniques and considerations are discussed and practiced extensively. Key concepts include analysis and design using a standardized notation such as the unified modeling language (UML), data model to logical schema conversion techniques, normalization, transaction processing, and client-server architectures. |
| CS384 | DATA STRUCTURES | 3 | This course is designed to build on the cadet's basic programming knowledge. Major emphasis is placed on object-based design, programming methodology, algorithms and algorithm analysis, data structures, and abstract data types as tools for the analysis, design, and implementation of software modules to meet specified requirements. Cadets will learn and employ several well-known algorithms and data structures. Techniques of searching, sorting, recursion, and hashing will be examined. Data structures such as sets, heaps, linked lists, stacks, queues, and trees will be covered. A block-structured programming language reflecting comprehensive support for good software engineering principles will be the foundation of application-oriented exercises. Cadets will design software solutions by employing problem decomposition and selecting the appropriate algorithms and abstract data types. |
| CS385 | DESIGN & ANALYS-ALGORITHMS | 3 | This course studies analysis of algorithms and the relevance of analysis to the design of efficient computer algorithms. Algorithmic approaches covered include greedy, divide and conquer, and dynamic programming. Topics include sorting, searching, graph algorithms, and disjoint set structure. |
| CS401 | SOFTWARE SYSTEMS DESIGN I | 3.5 | This course is the first in the senior-level sequence dealing with software systems. It provides cadets with an integrative engineering design and implementation experience as they pursue a solution to a complex, real-life problem. Conceptual material stresses requirements definition and problem solving strategies applied to the design and implementation of software systems. Hierarchical abstractions, modeling, and user interface issues are examined and integrated with a study of the software life cycle, requirements specification, and verification and validation issues. Cadets also learn and employ additional advanced computing techniques that prepare them for the more complex portions of project implementations during CS402. Potential topic areas to be covered may include distributed computation, software quality measurement, or portable application interfaces. |
| CS403 | OBJECT ORIENTED CONCEPTS | 3 | This course builds on the fundamental programming skills from prerequisite courses to explore advanced concepts used in modern object oriented software design to create software that is robust, reusable, and extensible in varying problem domains. Cadets gain confidence in their abilities to model, implement, and test solutions to demanding programming problems. |
| CS474 | FUNDAMENTLS-COMPUTER THEORY | 3 | Grounds the cadet in the essentials of theory of computation: formal languages, automata, and computability theory. Frames computation in the context of the Chomsky hierarchy, the polynomial and exponential time hierarchies, and the decidability hierarchy. Explores fundamental limits on computation: what problems can never be solved, what problems can be solved but are intractable, and the class NP of problems that are thought to be intractable, but for which no proof of intractability exists to date. |
| CS478 | PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES | 3 | Concepts of high-level programming language design are explored in detail. Cadets will examine the fundamental issues of programming language design and use this knowledge as a framework for comparison of different high-level languages. Cadets will study concepts from some or all of the imperative, functional, object-oriented, concurrent, and logic programming language paradigms. |
| CS481 | OPERATING SYSTEMS | 3 | The operating system controls the computer itself and provides a useful interface for users and application programs. The operating system controls all the computer resources: processors, main storage, secondary storage, I/O devices, and files. It determines which programs will be in memory at any given time and the order in which programs will run. The operating system should resolve conflicts between processes, attempt to optimize the performance of the computer, allow the computer to communicate with other computers, and maintain a record of actions performed as it goes about its system tasks. This course investigates the basic design issues encountered in order to produce an operating system that can address the above problems in an efficient manner. These concepts are reinforced by a series of programming projects that include both design and implementation. |
| CS484 | COMPUTER NETWORKS | 3 | This course provides cadets with an introduction to computer networks by breaking the subject into comprehensible parts and building a survey of the state of the art. The goal of the course is to provide each cadet with basic concepts necessary to understand the design and operation of computer networks. Taking a layered approach, it examines the internet with an emphasis on the TCP/IP protocol suite. Additionally, basic principles including multiplexing, switching, flow control, and error control are covered. Internetworking and its application to both local and wide area networks are also investigated. The course offers an understanding of the current status and future directions of technology and how technology relates to standards. |
| CS485 | SPEC TOPICS IN COMPUTER SCI | 3 | This course provides in-depth study of a special topic in computer science not offered elsewhere in the USMA curriculum. Course content will be based on the special expertise of the visiting professor or a senior computer science faculty member. |
| CS486 | ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE | 3 | The course provides an introduction to the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Cadets will develop an appreciation for the domain of AI and an understanding of the current interest and research in the field. The historical ideas and techniques of AI and the resulting set of concepts will be covered. Classic programs will be covered as well as underlying theory. Topics include a history of computer problem solving, heuristic search techniques, knowledge representation, knowledge engineering, predicate calculus, and expert and/or rule based systems. Advanced topics that may be covered include intelligent agents, genetic algorithms, neural networks, fuzzy logic, robotics, vision, natural language processing, learning, and the programming languages of AI. The course will emphasize the practical application of artificial intelligence to industry and business as well as DoD. |
| CS489 | ADV IND STUDY COMPUTER SCI | 3 | The detailed syllabus of this elective will be tailored to the specific project and to qualifications of the cadet. The research or study program will be proposed by the cadet or selected from those proposed by the department. The cadet will formalize a proposal, design a viable research plan, and conduct research under the guidance and supervision of a faculty advisor. The Head of the Department will approve cadet projects. Lessons and labs established by consultation between cadet and advisor. |
| CS489A | ADV IND STUDY COMPUTER SCI | 3 | Same as CS489. |
| EE300 | FUNDAMENTALS OF DIGITAL LOGIC | 3 | This is a course for non-electrical engineering majors that covers the analysis, design, simulation, and construction of digital logic circuits and systems. The material in this course provides the necessary tools to design digital hardware circuits such as clocks and security devices, as well as computer hardware. The course begins with the study of binary and hexadecimal number systems, Boolean algebra, and their application to the design of combinational logic circuits. The first half of the course focuses on designs using small-scale integration (SSI) logic circuits, medium-scale integration (MSI) circuits, and programmable logic devices (PLDs) to implement combinational logic functions. The second half of the course emphasizes sequential logic circuits like counters and sequence recognizers, and also covers memory systems. Laboratory work in this half of the course focuses on using very high speed integrated circuit hardware description language (VHDL) to simulate digital systems and to program those systems into PLDs. Throughout the course, the focus is on how the various digital hardware devices are used to perform the internal operations of a computer. |
| EE301 | FUNDAMENTALS OF ELEC ENGIN | 3.5 | This first course in electrical engineering for the non-electrical engineering major provides a foundation in basic circuit theory and analysis, power in circuits and electric power systems, and analog electronics. Lectures, laboratory work, classroom demonstrations and discussions showing practical applications emphasize and illustrate the fundamental theories and concepts presented in the course. Engineering design is reflected in laboratory work and minor design problems. |
| EE302 | INTRO ELECTRICAL ENGIN | 3.5 | This first course in electrical engineering provides a solid introduction to electric circuit theory. Fundamental principles and network theorems are developed using DC resistive circuits. The complete responses of RC, RL, and RLC circuits are obtained using classical and Laplace-transform techniques to solve the related differential equations. Electrical system transfer functions, time-domain and frequency-domain relationships, stability, frequency response, steady-state AC analysis, and power are also studied. Laboratory work, practical applications, and classroom demonstrations emphasize and illustrate the fundamentals presented in the course. |
| EE350 | BASIC ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING | 3 | This is a course for non-electrical engineering majors that provides a foundation in basic circuit theory and analysis, power in circuits and electric power systems, and analog electronics. Lectures, laboratory work, classroom demonstrations and discussions showing practical applications illustrate the fundamental theories and concepts presented in the course. Engineering science is reflected in laboratory work. |
| EE360 | DIGITAL COMPUTER LOGIC | 3.5 | This course covers the analysis, design, simulation, and construction of digital logic circuits and systems. The material in this course provides the necessary tools to design digital hardware circuits such as digital clocks and locks, as well as computer hardware. The course begins with the study of binary and hexadecimal number systems, Boolean algebra, and their application to the design of combinational logic circuits. The first half of the course focuses on designs using small-scale integration (SSI) logic circuits, medium-scale integration (MSI) circuits, and programmable logic devices (PLDs) to implement combinational logic functions. The second half of the course emphasizes sequential logic circuits like counters and sequence recognizers, and also covers memory systems. Laboratory work in this half of the course focuses on using very high speed integrated circuit hardware description language (VHDL) to simulate digital systems and to program those systems into PLDs. As a final project, cadet teams design, build, and test a digital logic system such as a programmable alarm clock, digital lock, or burglar alarm. |
| EE362 | INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRONICS | 3.5 | This course continues cadet education in electrical engineering through the study of basic electronic devices and circuits. It begins with an introduction to the ideal operational amplifier and its applications. It then covers the operation of the pn-junction diode and the bipolar junction transistor (BJT) in DC, large-signal, and small-signal regimes. The course emphasizes single-stage amplifier design. The course concludes with an introduction to field-effect transistors and the design, analysis, simulation, building, and testing of a two-stage audio amplifier. Three laboratory exercises, three mini-labs, and computer-aided simulations using the Cadence suite of software supplement the lectures with practical circuit analysis, design, construction and testing. |
| EE375 | INTRO TO COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE | 3 | This course provides an introduction to computer organization and computer architecture. It builds on digital logic theory and devices (as studied in EE360) to develop more complex systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding the basics of computer system organization, design, and operation. This includes the use of Register Transfer Language (RTL) to describe the movement of data in the computer and assembly language programming to control the system at a higher level. Additionally, students are introduced to modern engineering design tools through the use of VHDL (VHSIC Hardware Description Language) as they design, simulate and program a simple processor. Other topics such as microprogram control, RISC architectures, arithmetic processing, input/output, and memory design are introduced. Finally, cadets study contemporary PC organization by examining the operation of a program at the register level. |
| EE377 | ELECTRICAL POWER ENGNRNG | 3 | This course provides a study of the fundamentals in two areas of electric power engineering: electromechanical energy conversion and electric power systems. Steady-state behavior in single-phase and balanced three-phase power circuits is emphasized. The concept of per unit analysis is introduced and used throughout the course. Transformers, AC & DC machines, transmission lines, power systems, and power electronic devices are studied. Laboratory exercises demonstrate the electrical, mechanical, and physical characteristics of several of the systems studied. The cadet will apply analysis, design, build, and/or test techniques to a power related project. |
| EE381 | SIGNALS AND SYSTEMS | 3.5 | This course provides a general study of linear system theory and signal representation techniques as preparation for continued study in communications, control, and electronic systems. Topics include the resolution of continuous time signals and discrete time sequences into their images as frequency functions using Fourier series and transforms. The study includes singularity functions, convolution, convergence properties, and transform properties. The Laplace transform and its inverse provide a method for determining the system function for systems described by differential equations, while the z-transform and its inverse provide a method of analysis for difference equations. The course includes a brief study of communication system principles to include samplimg and a study of analog and digital (both finite and infinite impulse response) filter design. Laboratory exercises in the course consist of learning the engineering software program MATLAB and its use in generating and processing signals. |
| EE401 | ELECTRONIC SYSTEM DESIGN I | 3.5 | This course is part of a two-semester team design experience in electrical engineering that integrates math, science, and engineering into a comprehensive system. The system design encompasses both analog and digital electronics, and may also include sub-systems. Projects are open-ended and must result in a product that performs within pre-determined or negotiated constraints. The system design problem draws from a variety of science and engineering experiences within the curriculum and requires significant cadet creativity and decision-making. Acceptable solutions must address technological, social, political, economic, and ethical considerations. Classroom instruction addresses design methodologies and common system components. Course requirements include periodic in-progress reviews, written and oral reports. |
| EE450 | MILITARY ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS | 3 | This is a course for non-electrical engineering majors that explores both theoretical and practical aspects of designing electronic systems. First, the course investigates conversion between digital and analog signals, an essential operation for almost all battlefield information systems. Next, the course covers the engineering science (tools and techniques) required to analyze and design communication, signal processing, control and power systems. Simultaneously, we introduce simulation as an essential part of the design process. Finally, cadets complete the conceptual phase and either simulation or implementation of an electronic system design that has military relevance. |
| EE482 | WIRELESS COMM SYS ENGINEERING | 3 | This course provides an introduction to wireless systems engineering with applications to voice and data networks. Description of well known systems such as cell phones, pagers, and wireless LAN's is presented along with the design considerations for deployment of wireless networks. Wireless radio channel modeling along with common impairments such as multipath fading are introduced and modulation techniques well suited to the wireless applications are presented. Receivers for the various modulation schemes are analyzed in terms of performance and the trade-offs offered by source and channel coding are presented. Multiple access techniques used in wireless applications are introduced and the design of networks described. The course concludes with an analysis and description of deployed systems along with their standards and services provided. |
| EE484 | ADV CMPTR ARCHTR USG VHDL | 3 | The course builds on the computer architecture foundation provided in EE375. The functional block diagram approach and evolution into the Hardware Description Language paradigm, using the DOD-standard VHDL, introduced in the basic architecture course, is expanded to include advanced architectural issues. The reduced instruction set computer (RISC) architecture serves as the basis for the study of advanced issues. Emphasizing register transfer notation and behavioral modeling of discrete system components, hierarchical structure models of representative machines are designed and simulated. Cache memory, virtual memory, instruction pipelining, branch prediction, hazard avoidance and computer arithmetic are the major topics studied. The term project utilizes VHDL for the behavioral description of a processor and then proceeds through the use of CAD synthesis tools and system simulators. The Term Project is used in lieu of a Term End Examination. |
| EE485 | SPEC TOPICS IN EE | 3 | This course provides an in-depth study of special topics in electrical engineering not offered elsewhere in the USMA curriculum. Course content will be based on expertise of a senior electrical engineering faculty member or a Visiting Professor. |
| EE489 | ADV IND STUDY IN ELECT ENGR | 3 | Course requirements will be tailored to the needs and qualifications of the individual cadet. The course will normally involve a project requiring research, experimentation, and the submission of a report under the guidance of a departmental advisor. Alternatively, study may take the form of a tutorial course covering material not available in the regular elective course offerings. |
| EM381 | ENGINEERING ECONOMY | 3 | This course prepares cadets to consider the economic dimension in the evaluation of engineering alternatives; a consideration vital to the Systems Design Process, engineering management, systems acquisition and many other application areas. While emphasis is on the analytical consideration of money and its impact on the areas above, the course also incorporates professional ethics in the engineering economic analysis process. The course is taught in four lesson blocks. The Time Value of Money (TVM) block -includes the quantitative methods for economic analysis of engineering alternatives by introducing cost concepts, interest concepts, the cash flow diagram and developing interest formulas. The Analysis Methods block develops techniques for project evaluation and comparison and ways to account for risk and uncertainty. The After Tax Cash Flow block incorporates the real-world effect of taxes, depreciation and inflation into the analysis methods. The Capital Budgeting block completes a comprehensive introduction to engineering economy by introducing the concept of economic service life and project financing. A one lesson introduction to personal finance is included to demonstrate how many of the concepts used in the business world can also be applied for personal planning. Course concepts are applied using Excel in both graded and ungraded labs. Cadets will spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| EM384 | ANYL METH FOR ENGR MANAGEMENT | 3 | EM384 focuses on the application of deterministic and probabilistic models used by analysts to make engineering and management decisions. Cadets learn to apply various modeling techniques to represent and solve real-world organizational problems in the military and industry. Topics include: linear and integer programming, network modeling, decision making under uncertainty, queuing, and simulation modeling. Cadets apply concepts and tools using Microsoft Excel within a computer lab environment. The techniques taught in this course have been applied to an increasingly wide variety of complex problems in business, government, military, health care, and education. Ethical responsibilities in describing the results of analyses to decision makers are integrated throughout the course. Cadets develop communication skills through two written reports and make innovative use of spreadsheets to develop and analyze models. Cadets are tested on the application of course concepts of the course from the four blocks of instruction during four graded labs and two out-of-classroom projects, and two in-class WPRs. Cadets will spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| EM402 | ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT DSN I | 3.5 | This is the first course in a two-semester capstone design for EM majors. EM402 integrates the principles, concepts and models explored in previous core and engineering topic courses. The course applies the principles of systems design, engineering management, and/or reengineering to a real-world system. Cadets work under the supervision of a faculty mentor to address a problem presented by a real-world client, providing them an integrative experience for their education in engineering design. |
| EM411 | PROJECT MANAGEMENT | 3.5 | This course develops skills required to lead an organization to the achievement of their objectives through the proper application of the management of planning, implementing and controlling the organization activities, personnel and resources. The course focuses on the Implementation phase of the Systems Design Process (SDP). Topics include project selection, roles and responsibilities of the project manager, planning the project, budgeting the project, scheduling the project, allocating resources to the project, monitoring and controlling the project, evaluating and terminating the project, risk assessment and management, organizational structure and human resources. Case studies illustrate problems and how to solve them. Course assignments are designed to help students learn and apply project management techniques taught in the course. The class design project will provide students with the opportunity to integrate project management software, Microsoft Project, into the preparation of an Engineering Management Project Plan. Cadets spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| EM420 | PRODUCTION OPERATIONS MGMT | 3 | This course deals with the quantitative aspects of design and analysis of production operations management. Emphasis is on identification, analysis, and solution of production problems using applied quantitative techniques. Practical exercises reinforce the problem-solving techniques necessary for today's successful military and civilian engineering managers and systems engineers. Specific methods and techniques taught and applied are operations strategy, product design and selection, supply chain management, total quality management, forecasting, capacity planning, facility location, facility layout, work system design, inventory management, material requirements planning, and scheduling. This course is required for those pursuing the Engineering Management major, the Systems Engineering major, the Systems Management major, and the Management major. Cadets will spend two to four lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| EM484 | DYNAMIC SYSTEMS ANALYSIS | 3 | This course is a simulation elective for the Systems Engineering, Engineering Management, Information Systems Engineering, Operations Research, and Systems Management majors. Simulation modeling can be used to study the effects of changes to existing systems or processes, or evaluate the performance of new systems prior to their implementation. The techniques taught in this course are a significant part of the Systems Design Process (SDP) as they introduce the concept of dynamic systems thinking and analysis. By their nature, large scale systems are dynamic. These systems involve complex cause and effect relationships that form feedback loops between the variables of interest. These systems produce outcomes that are not always intuitive. The cadets use the properties of dynamic systems and analytical techniques to design continuous models of complex systems or processes, implement these models, and perform an analysis of the results. Topics include applications of Systems Dynamics, client/modeler relationships, problem articulation, functional modeling through causal loop diagrams and stock and flow diagrams, modeling and simulation in a PC-based continuous event simulation package, policy design, policy testing, and policy implementation. These concepts and principles are applied to military and civilian applications such as physical systems, human decision processes, population, and economic/business processes. Cadets develop communication skills by presenting their design results in both written reports and oral presentations. The course also addresses ethical implications in the development and application of dynamic models as well as interactions with decision makers. Cadets will spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| EN101 | COMPOSITION | 3 | This course aims to develop clear, logical, and grammatically correct expression in written discourse. Daily writing and revision reinforce instruction in the writing process. Organization, substance, style, and correctness are major concerns of the course. |
| EN102 | LITERATURE | 3 | This course studies ways in which writers use language imaginatively. Cadets develop the writing techniques of EN101 in responding to assignments on selected works of literature from diverse authors. |
| EN302 | ADVANCED COMPOSITION | 3 | This course refines basic writing skills, develops sophisticated techniques of written expression, and establishes a critical editorial sense with respect to the cadet's own composition and the writing of others. Exemplary readings give substance to daily writing, while revision and extensive counseling emphasize the requirement for organization, substance, style, and correctness. |
| EP333 | CULTURAL STUDIES | 3 | This course analyzes a culture through the study of its art, philosophy, and literature. It not only acquaints cadets with a particular period and place but also introduces them to various definitions of culture and to recent themes and debates in cultural studies. The work of theorists as diverse as Matthew Arnold, Walter Benjamin, Raymond Williams, and Laura Mulvey informs this team-taught course's interdisciplinary approach to cultural artifacts as well as its investigation of aesthetics, ideology, and issues of ethnicity, gender, and class. Typical areas of focus include Augustan Rome, Enlightenment France, and Meiji Japan. Cadets should take this course early in their program of study. |
| EP343 | AMERICAN LITERATURE I | 3 | The course will focus on the development of American literature from early contact to the Civil War. Students will read from works by such authors as the Puritans, Jefferson, Lincoln, the Transcendentalists, Dickinson, Whitman, and Melville, as well as literature outside of the New England canon: for example, works by Native Americans, French and Spanish colonizers, and African captives. All works will be considered in the context of cultural and intellectual history. We will consider a broad range of genres and modes of writing, including (but not limited to) colonial theory, ethnography, autobiography, fiction, essays, and poetry. A central concern of the course will be the question of what constitutes American literature. |
| EP361 | W. ART I: ANCIENT TO MEDIEVAL | 3 | At the end of the thirteenth century, Giotto began painting human figures in a way that differed significantly from the vision of his predecessors, and soon sculptors and architects, inspired by classical models, also departed from their received traditions. Although those changes mark a distinctly new era in art, the work of the preceding 4,000 years constitutes a legacy that today brings ever new revelations to its students. Cadets in this course will study some of the great artifacts surviving from those years and seek to understand the various cultural influences that shaped their creation. |
| EP381 | PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION | 3 | This course examines the nature of religion and its truth claims from the perspective of philosophical analysis. It examines such perennial questions as: is there a God? What are the arguments for and against the existence of a Supreme Being? How can a good God permit Evil? Is there life after death? Is it rational to believe in God or does faith stand above or against reason? What is the relationship of religion to ethics? Is the Good good because God commands it, or does God command the Good because it is good? |
| EP383 | REALITY AND KNOWLEDGE | 3 | This course will address the perennial questions concerning the nature of reality (metaphysics) and what we can know about it (epistemology). How do we acquire knowledge of the physical world, the nonphysical world? Are there noncorporeal entities (souls, deities, angels)? If so, what can we claim to know about them? How are belief and knowledge related? A systematic and comprehensive approach to these problems and others will entail reading works by Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Locke, Leibniz, Hume, and Kant, as well as more recent metaphysicians and epistemologists. |
| EP388 | ANCIENT PHILOSOPHY | 3 | The heritage from ancient Greece and Rome provides the foundation for the Western concept of the universe and the place of people in it. This course examines the origins of philosophy; the essentially secular view of man and the world established during the classical period; and major figures whose views continue to shape Western thought. |
| EP391 | POETRY | 3 | Embracing a wide variety of authors, works, periods, traditions, and forms, this course considers the literary genre through which human beings have expressed their most intensely imaginative visions of themselves and the world, and connections between the two. Some consideration of poetics and prosody will complement the cadets' reading of verse that ranges from Japanese haiku through the Shakespearean sonnet to the free-verse creations of modern and contemporary poets. |
| EP392 | MINORITY LITERATURES | 3 | Designed to expand a cadet's view beyond the cultural boundaries of canonical literature, this course examines a diverse collection of texts, ranging from works like Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God, Momaday's The Ancient Child, and Allende's The House of Spirits to works by less familiar authors like Lu Xun, Naguib Mahfouz, and Oe Kenzaburo. |
| EP433 | SENIOR SEMINAR | 3 | This APL integrative course develops an archetypal concept that crosses disciplinary boundaries and promotes a synthesis of aspects of the core curriculum. It contributes to the overarching goal of helping cadets "to anticipate and respond effectively to the uncertainties of a changing technological, social, political, and economic world." The archetype subjects will incorporate insights from both the sciences and the humanities, with emphasis on manifestations of the archetype in art, philosophy, and literature. The seminar will typically integrate art, technology, and language. Archetypal themes, the organizing element for the course that will change periodically, could be selected from the following possibilities: the WARRIOR, the BRIDGE, the CITY, the ALIEN, the SHIP, and the PRISON. |
| EP487 | SENIOR THESIS I | 3 | This course permits cadets with the requisite energy and talent to initiate a yearlong project requiring research in depth that culminates in a substantial thesis of high scholarly quality. |
| EV203 | PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY | 3 | This core course provides cadets with a fundamental understanding of scientific principles and processes of earth science, meteorology, climatology, geomorphology and environmental systems, as well as an introduction to cultural geography. Further, the course furnishes cadets with the technical skills - digital terrain analysis, image interpretation and spectral analysis, remote sensing, global positioning system, geographic information systems cartography - to delineate the geographic distribution of landforms, weather, climate, and culture systems; and evaluate their potential impact on military operations. Lessons are reinforced by extensive use of in- and out-of-class practical exercises, terrain walks and computer exercises to demonstrate the interrelationship between physical and human systems, and their impact on the environment. Historical vignettes are employed to demonstrate how the factors of weather, climate, terrain, soils, vegetation and culture are important, cogent and frequently decisive in military operations. |
| EV300 | ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE | 3 | As the introductory course to the Environmental Engineering Sequence, EV300 provides the cadet with a broad understanding of current global and local environmental issues. It specifically focuses on natural ecosystems processes, the effects of pollution on human health and how the level of risk associated with this pollution is assessed, the environmental effects of energy use, and air pollution concerns such as global climate change, acid rain, and smog. Discussions of anthropogenic influences are conducted with consideration of social, economic, technological and political impacts. Cadets learn to evaluate literature on environmental issues through readings and interactive debates. A course project applying the scientific method to evaluate a current environmental problem provides an opportunity to tie multiple course topics with an in-depth study of an issue of interest. |
| EV301 | ENV SCIENCE FOR ENGR & SCIEN | 3 | This course is similar to EV300 except that the context of discussion in EV301 is appropriate for cadets who have elected to major in science or engineering. EV301 provides the cadet with a broad understanding of current global and local environmental issues. It specifically focuses on natural ecosystems processes, the effects of pollution on human health and how the level of risk associated with this pollution is assessed, the environmental effects of energy use, and air pollution concerns such as global climate change, acid rain, and smog. Discussions of anthropogenic influences are conducted with consideration of social, economic, technological and political impacts. Cadets learn to evaluate literature on environmental issues through readings and interactive debates. A course project applying the scientific method to evaluate a current environmental problem provides an opportunity to tie multiple course topics with an in-depth study of an issue of interest. |
| EV303 | FOUNDATIONS IN GEOGRAPHY | 3 | This course presents the basic concepts, theories and methods of inquiry in the discipline of geography as foundation for advanced study in Human/Regional Geography; Environmental Geography; or Geospatial Information Science. The course includes models and concepts from the many sub-disciplinary (systematic) areas of geography to include cultural, historical, economic, urban, political and military geography. The application of concepts to real-world issues is emphasized. Research skills and techniques used by professional geographers are presented. Cadets use these approaches to spatially analyze and map the distribution of human and environmental phenomena. Several short papers will be assigned. |
| EV365 | GEOGRAPHY OF GLOBAL CULTURES | 3 | This course provides the geographic foundation for study in interdisciplinary and management academic areas. Contemporary regions of the world political map serve as the framework within which geographic concepts and analytical techniques are applied. Each cadet will develop an awareness of the diversity and distribution of people on the earth, human organization and exploitation of territory, and interactions among culture groups. Particular emphasis is placed on social institutions, their impact on economic development, and the subsequent identification and analysis of developed, emerging, and underdeveloped states. |
| EV371 | GEOGRAPHY OF RUSSIA | 3 | This course examines the political, economic, and cultural geography of Russia and its adjacent neighbors; the Baltic states, east central European region, transcaucasus, and central Asia. Topics covered include: the commonwealth of independent states; ecocide in the former soviet union; disposition of the former soviet military; and ethnic rivalries. The objective of the course is to provide the student with an understanding of the recent past of the traditional soviet system in order to understand, as well as geographically evaluate, Russia's and the other former republics' situation today. |
| EV373 | GEOGRAPHY OF LATIN AMERICA | 3 | This course studies the physical and cultural landscape of Latin America, giving special treatment to the diversity and cultural identity of the region. Topics covered include an historical geography of the region, including pre-columbian civilizations, Iberian, African, and European influences; the geography of transportation networks, agriculture, urbanization, and population. National boundaries, major landforms and climatic conditions are discussed to describe their effect on civilization. This course also investigates the historical relationship between the United States and Latin America and covers recent U.S. military interventions in the region. |
| EV377 | REMOTE SENSING | 3 | Remote Sensing is learning about something without touching it--the most obvious example being the use of satellites to study the Earth. EV377, a techniques course applicable to both the humanities and engineering, studies how and what types of information can be carried by the electromagnetic spectrum. Students enjoy a wide range of practical exercises which introduce them to several remote sensing systems to include conventional and color infrared photography, multispectral scanners, satellite imagery, thermal infrared, and radar. The capstone exercise offers each student the opportunity to perform real-time automated image classification using satellite data on his/her own micro-computer. The course focus is on applying remotely sensed data to solve current problems. |
| EV378 | CARTOGRAPHY | 3 | Cartography teaches the principles of cartographic communication and enables the student to apply map design principles along with computer mapping techniques to solve contemporary problems in geography, economics, international relations, and applied sciences. Cadets will study the basic cartographic design process and use mapping and analysis software in the geographic sciences laboratory to produce topographic and thematic maps. A final course design project presents the opportunity for the cadets to demonstrate their ability to synthesize sound mapping principles. |
| EV380 | SURVEYING | 3.5 | A framework for understanding and applying practical surveying methods is developed. Consideration of error theory and the concepts of precision of and accuracy yields understanding of the probabilistic nature of measurements. The principles of differential leveling, taping, electronic distance measurement and angular measurement are studied and applied using state-of-the-art surveying equipment and software tools. Plane surveys are principally explored, although the fundamentals of geodetic surveys are also presented. Traverse, triangulation, trilateration, level networks and the proper adjustment of related measurements are examined. Control survey, land survey, topographic survey, horizontal and vertical curve design, computer-aided mapping and GIS applications are included. Extensive use of laboratory periods permits application of surveying fundamentals, methods and planning skills to actual field situations. The principles of the global positioning system are explored and applications in the Army and surveying are applied in the final lab exercise. |
| EV384 | GEOGRAPHY OF NORTH AMERICA | 3 | This course provides a regional geography of North America, with balanced coverage of the human and physical geography of the United States and Canada. Lectures are appropriately supplemented with movies, slides, and maps to facilitate understanding of important themes that are prevalent in various subregions. Emphasis is placed on cultural patterns and contemporary environmental issues. |
| EV388A | PHYSICAL GEOLOGY | 3 | This course primarily emphasizes understanding and interpreting the significant geologic processes that act on and within the earth. Topics studied include the formation and identification of minerals and rocks, plate tectonics, rock structures, geologic mapping, and elements of economic geology. Field trips are conducted to illustrate concepts and processes discussed in class. The course is capstoned by a geologic design that uses an interactive geologic exploration computer simulation. The cadet designs a geologic exploration project and develops a program for remediation of an environmental problem. |
| EV389B | CLIMATOLOGY | 3 | The course investigates the earth's atmospheric phenomena, giving special attention to the dynamic physical processes which produce weather and result in distinctive climates. The course focus is on how climate influences daily life and activities. Time is devoted to case studies of urban microclimates and attendant problems of atmospheric pollution and scientific efforts to alter the weather. Exercises allow the student to apply climate data and information to problem solving in the fields of engineering, agriculture, land use, and the military. |
| EV391A | LAND USE PLAN & MGT | 3 | An introduction to land use planning and management with focus on the land-law interfaces between the physical, cultural, and legal realms. The course surveys the policies and legislative basis for land use controls at the local, federal and regional levels to include national parks and forests, agricultural lands, rangelands, and military training areas. Natural resource management issues and strategies are explored. The importance of geographic concepts is emphasized in the conduct of applied case studies addressing land use conflicts and environmental strategies. |
| EV394 | HYDROGEOLOGY | 3.5 | This course covers the principles governing the movement of subterranean water (groundwater), the interaction of this water with the porous medium, and the transport of chemical constituents (contaminants) by this flow. Lesson blocks will explore traditional background elements of hydraulic engineering, well drawdown, engineering applications, and the use of computers to model groundwater flow and contaminant plumes. All course material will contribute to modeling a specific situation and developing recommendations for cleaning up contaminated groundwater. |
| EV402 | BIOCHEMICAL TREATMENT | 3.5 | This course provides cadets with the opportunity to apply the principles of microbiology to the protection and improvement of the environment. This course builds on the concepts learned in EV396, Environmental Biological Systems, and directly applies those concepts to the treatment of wastewater, removal of nutrients from wastewater, anaerobic digestion, bioremediation, industrial waste treatment, and emerging applications of biological treatment and modeling. A comprehensive, multi-step design project serves as the design experience for this course. |
| EV450 | ENVIRONMENTAL DECISION MAKING | 3 | This course is the third in a three-course sequence and is concerned with the balance of engineered solutions with economic, socio-cultural, political, and ecological considerations evaluated during a decision-making process. Using management of water resources as a teaching model, the realities of decision-making and policy development for all areas of engineering, and particularly environmental engineering, are examined. The course begins with instruction on the tools available to water resource managers, to include both structural (engineered) and non-structural approaches to solve water resource problems. Elements of engineering design and the design process are introduced as well as methods of conducting tradeoff analyses. The course makes use of case studies of current water resource projects and includes a term project. Visiting speakers are employed to present views of government and concerned public interest groups. |
| EV471 | ECOLOGY | 3 | This course examines ecosystems through the study of ecological principles related to an organism's relationship to its environment, community, and ecosystem. Species, population, community, and ecosystem level interactions and dynamics are emphasized. The fundamental influences of energy flow and material cycling are examined, as well as the unique role of wetlands within ecosystems. The course includes several field trips, which lead to a culminating term project designed to integrate previously acquired environmental science technical skills and ecological principles. |
| EV480 | HONORS SEMINAR IN GEOGRAPHY | 3 | This course will examine major research initiatives in the discipline and delineate their data requirements. The primary objective of this course is to identify and outline the senior thesis, which is the culminating event for the Honors Program. Hence, cadets participating in this course will explore research methods and data sources used by geographers, conduct a critical analysis of seminal literature in the field, define a research problem, identify and evaluate data sources, and assemble a research proposal. The final product of this course will be a written research proposal that will define the senior thesis (written during EV489B). The cadet will make a formal presentation of this proposal to senior geography faculty. The course is conducted in a seminar and one-and-one format. Lessons and labs are established by consultation between the cadet and faculty advisor. |
| EV481 | WATER RESOURCES PLAN & DESIGN | 3 | The course is concerned with effective use of water as a manageable natural resource. It begins with instruction on the tools required by water resource managers to make sound decisions in their field. The course assesses current needs for water and the structural (engineered) and non-structural approaches available to meet these needs. Elements of engineering design and the design process are introduced. The bulk of the course is concerned with assessment of the impacts of various water resources development activities on the economic, socio-cultural and ecological sectors of the environment. Methods for conducting tradeoff analyses among the engineered and environmental aspects of projects are developed and applied in a term project. The course makes use of case studies of current water resource projects. Visiting speakers represent the views of the Federal government and concerned public interest groups. |
| EV485 | SPEC TOPICS-GEOG & ENVRNMNT | 3 | This course explores an advanced topic in Human and Regional Geography, Environmental Geography, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or Geospatial Information Science. Specific subject matter will vary with the expertise of the visiting professor or senior faculty member conducting the course. |
| EV486 | ENVIRONMENTAL GEOGRAPHY | 3 | Whereas physical geographers focus on the earth's surface and atmosphere, and human geographers concentrate on the spatial aspect of human activities, environmental geographers are interested in both how people adapt to specific environments and how they alter those environments through human activities. To understand these interactions and their implications, environmental geographers must fully appreciate natural processes and landform development within and on the surface of the Earth, as well as the implications of human intervention in the natural system. |
| EV489A | ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL STUDY I | 3 | The course is an individually supervised research and study program designed to provide cadets with the opportunity to pursue advanced topics within their discipline. The cadet prepares a research and study proposal setting forth the objectives, scope, and anticipated accomplishments of his/her efforts for the semester. If required for a specific degree, the proposal will include a justification for engineering science or design credit. Once approved, the proposal serves as a basis for the cadet's research and study program. Progress in research reports and observations by the faculty advisor form the basis for grades. The program for each cadet will culminate in one of two outcomes: 1) a discipline-appropriate written product (e.g., senior thesis or design project) with oral defense; or 2) enrollment in EV489B for the completion of the research and study program during the second academic term. Lessons and labs are established by consultation between the cadet and faculty advisor. |
| EV498 | ADV GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYS | 3 | This course examines the analytical methods used in Geographic Information systems (GIS) and provides cadets with a clear understanding of the theoretical/conceptual aspects of algorithms found in GIS software. Lectures focus on the underlying mathematical basis for widely used spatial analytical techniques. Among the topics covered are neighborhood operations, map transformation, spatial interpolation, terrain analysis, network analysis, spatial overlay, fuzzy sets, neural networks, and expert systems. In-class practical exercises and laboratory assignments compliment the lectures by providing hands-on experience with a variety of advanced analytical techniques. The course culminates with a capstone term project that allows cadets to identify a scientific problem, formulate a hypothesis, use GIS to solve the problem, and then present the results of their analysis. |
| HI103 | HISTORY OF THE US | 3 | These courses treat the history of the United States (in an international context) from the nation's colonial origins to the present. Both surveys explore the American experience by investigating such diverse topics as economic, political, and social evolution, foreign relations developments, the rise of sectionalism, cultural and intellectual growth, group interactions, and the relation between war and society. The courses also introduce methods of historical research and analysis, and seek to develop the cadet's facility for critical thinking and lucid writing, and for participating effectively in oral discussion. |
| HI107 | WESTERN CIVILIZATION | 3 | HI 107 is the first half of a two-semester sequence intended to build for cadets a historical foundation before they conduct an in-depth survey of another civilization in HI 108. This course traces the human experience from ancient times until 1914. Beginning with an examination of the origins of Western Civilization in the Middle East, HI 107 then explores the development of Western Civilization through the classical, medieval, early modern, and modern periods, ending with an examination of the causes leading to the First World War. The roots and formative events of the West are examined in depth to provide a cultural, social, economic, political, and military framework for the understanding of Western Civilization. This course also develops methods of historical research and analysis. It seeks to develop the cadet's facility for critical thinking, lucid writing, and effective participation in classroom discussion. |
| HI153 | ADVANCED HISTORY OF THE US | 3 | These courses encompass the same chronological period and thematic coverage as HI103-104, but they do so through monographic and periodical literature and greater emphasis on classroom discussion. These courses assume some familiarity with American history and consequently place special emphasis on historical analysis and criticism. Moreover, students acquire a broader understanding of American history and the historian's methods. |
| HI157 | ADV HISTORY OF THE WORLD | 3 | These courses encompass the same chronological period and thematic coverage as HI107-108, but they place a greater emphasis on classroom discussion and historical analysis and criticism. Consequently, the student acquires a broader and deeper appreciation of the historian's craft and of essential issues in world history. |
| HI301 | HISTORY OF THE MILITARY ART | 3 | This two-term, upperclass core course traces the evolution of the art of war from the ancients through the napoleonic era to the American civil war and the wars of the twentieth century. Emphasis is placed on the changing nature of warfare as nations adjust to social, political, economic and technological developments. Analysis focuses on causation, the interrelationship of events as warfare evolved over the ages, operational and logistical aspects of military history, and the role of society in warfare. |
| HI302 | HISTORY OF THE MILITARY ART | 3 | This two-term, upperclass core course traces the evolution of the art of war from the ancients through the Napoleonic era to the American civil war and the wars of the twentieth century. Emphasis is placed on the changing nature of warfare as nations adjust to social, political, economic and technological developments. Analysis focuses on causation, the interrelationship of events as warfare evolved over the ages, operational and logistical aspects of military history, and the role of society in warfare. |
| HI337 | CHINA-C. KINGDOM TO COMM RULE | 3 | This course traces the history of China from ancient times to the present. It briefly introduces the emergence of a distinct Chinese civilization, in thought, culture, and political structure. It then considers how China was transformed by the introduction of Buddhism and the experience of cosmopolitan empire under the Tang. Next it examines how China fared in the multi-state system that endured from 960 to the Mongol conquest, and then as the Late Imperial state under the Ming and 'foreign' Manchu rule. It considers the search for 'new China' in the Republican, Warlord, and Nationalist periods following the collapse of the Late Imperial state. It shows why Mao came to represent a new utopian vision and how that vision tragically failed. Finally, the course explores how the search for 'new China' and historical legitimacy continues today both on the mainland and in Taiwan. |
| HI345 | MODERN AFRICA | 3 | This course takes a thematic approach to African history, describing the forces which led to the partitioning of the continent, the practices of European colonialism/imperialism, the emergence of independent African states, and political, economic, and social developments in contemporary Africa. The goal of the course is to focus on critical events, relationships, and themes on the continent that continue to effect current events. |
| HI349 | THE MIDDLE EAST TO 1798 | 3 | This course enables cadets to explore the social, political, economic, and military interactions in the development of the Islamic world before European colonization. The first block examines the growth of the Islamic world from the advent of Muhammad and through the early phases of military conquest, with emphasis on the why Islam was appealing in its formative era, how the religion was structured, and what factors allowed for its political, economic and military success. The second block covers the subsequent evolution of the Caliphal empires, emphasizing the changing nature of political authority and legitimacy, the evolution of political institutions, and the challenges to Caliphal hegemony. The third block will examine the arrival of the Steppe peoples into the Middle East (Mamluks, Seljuk Turks, Mongols), and how new political, social and military structures were introduced, eventually shaping the development of the late Turkic Gunpowder Empires: the Ottomans of Europe and the Near East, the Safavids of Iran and Central Asia, and the Mughals of India. Cadets will assess what created the military strength of these empires and what led to their decline. |
| HI351 | ADV HISTORY OF MILITARY ART | 3 | HI351-352 parallels HI301-302. However, in addition to accelerated study of HI301-302 material, the cadet will study selected periods in greater depth and breadth. This course offers the cadet a more profound understanding of men and women as warriors and of the evolution of the art of war than would otherwise be available. |
| HI357 | WARFARE SINCE 1945 | 3 | The nature of warfare has changed dramatically since 1945. During the Cold War, American policies of containment and collective security collided with attempts at communist expansion. The threat of nuclear war led to an era of limited war, including revolutionary war, wars of national liberation, and civil wars. Cadets will examine the strategic conditions and political considerations influencing the use of force in all types of warfare. They will gain an appreciation for the experiences of soldiers and leaders in combat while analyzing military strategy and exploring the connection between war and society. |
| HI358 | STRATEGY, POLICY & GENERALSHIP | 3 | This course examines how political and military leaders develop and execute policy and strategy. The course begins with an examination of the rise of military professionalism and the creation of military staffs in the nineteenth century. It explores how political and military leaders integrate not only military power, but also diplomatic, economic, technological, social, and political resources to achieve a nation's goals. In particular, the course examines the often contentious issues of civil-military relations, joint and coalition warfare, and organizational and doctrinal change. Cadets study the strategic challenges faced by senior civilians and military leaders, thus allowing them to analyze warfare within a broader political-military context. |
| HI359 | ERA OF THE SECOND WORLD WAR | 3 | This course examines the Interwar Years, 1919-1939, and the Second World War from a global perspective while using a thematic approach to compare the different experiences of each of the major belligerents. Whether covering the Versailles Treaty, the rise of Adolf Hitler, the US Army during the Great Depression, home fronts, or the Holocaust, the cadets in the course will examine the social, political, cultural, and economic factors that contributed to how belligerents waged war, and, in turn, how war affected each of these factors across the globe. The course covers how and why the belligerents planned and executed particular strategies and operations in the European, Pacific, and China-Burma-India theaters to achieve their coalition and national goals. Finally, this course examines the interrelationship of sea, air, and land forces, and the complexities of providing logistical support to joint and combined operations on an unprecedented scale. |
| HI368 | MOD CENTRAL & E. EUR,1896-1989 | 3 | Between 1896 and 1989, Central and Eastern Europe experienced two world wars, at least three major revolutions, and radical industrial and environmental dislocations. The region witnessed everything from the birth of its modern culture to the creation of new post-World War I nation-states, to the Holocaust, to massive forced population shifts, to the creation of the communist Eastern Bloc, to the popular overthrow of Communism in 1989. Radical regimes on the right and left brought incredible change, quashed hopes, and produced both progress and suffering of unprecedented proportion. This course will examine life in late-19th and 20th century Habsburg Europe and its successor states of Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and Yugoslavia. It will do so comparatively, highlighting themes of nation-creation, everyday life, social transition, war, revolution, and ethnic cleansing. |
| HI372 | US FGN RELATIONS SINCE 1898 | 3 | This course examines American foreign relations from the nation's entry into the world arena as a major power in 1898 through both World Wars, and the Cold War, to its station in today's multipolar world. It is a study of the forces, events, personalities, and principles that have shaped America's role in the world and provided the framework for the development of current foreign policy. |
| HI381 | HIST-UNCONVENTIONAL WARFARE | 3 | The course examines unconventional warfare from a historical perspective, particularly conflicts involving opponents with a significant disparity in their conventional military capabilities. Through several case studies, the course explores why belligerents succeed or fail in unconventional warfare and how ideology, technology, and social, political, and economic factors help determine the outcome of wars between regular and irregular forces. Covering a broad period of history, selected case studies include wars of conquest or colonization, revolutionary wars, and peacekeeping or constabulary operations. |
| HI391 | WORLD RELIGIONS | 3 | This course analyses the emergence, development and present cultural expression of the major religions of the world, emphasizing their 19th and 20th century experience. It also examines the development of religion in the ancient world and in pre-literate and non-technical societies. Cadets study the world's religions as molded by and as molders of the social, political and economic forces unique to particular cultures. Special attention is paid to the role of each religion in the formulation and adaptation of public and foreign policy. |
| HI396 | MAKING OF MODERN AMERICA | 3 | Between 1877 and 1945 the United States fought three major wars, experienced dramatic economic growth, suffered the Great Depression, underwent significant social change, and emerged as the premier world power. This course analyzes these and related issues, emphasizing how and why the United States developed during the last quarter of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, and stressing the promises and problems that accompanied the making of modern America. |
| HI398 | SOCIETY & CULTURE IN AMER HIST | 3 | HI398 examines the evolution of American society from the perspective of the family and evaluates the influence of group identification--class, race, gender, and ethnicity. Other topics include consumerism, sports, religion, and wars as factors that modify and enrich the social and cultural spectrum. |
| HI461 | TOPICS IN GENDER HISTORY | 3 | This course examines the development of gender relations, concepts, and roles in historical perspective. Topics may include gender in the military and warfare, the European experience, the American experience, or international comparisons of gender. |
| HI498 | COLLOQUIUM IN HISTORY | 3 | The colloquium employs seminar discussions of important books and scholarly articles to enhance understanding of major historical issues. Subcourses are designed to provide in-depth study of various topics in American, European, military, and international and strategic history. Cadets select a subcourse topic as the basis for their reading program after consultation with their faculty advisor or departmental counselor. Subcourse topics may vary each year in accordance with student interest and faculty expertise. The colloquium satisfies the 400-level course requirement for the history fields of study. Cadets who major in history should complete a colloquium that will support their subsequent enrollment in HI499, Senior Thesis in History. |
| HI498A | COLLOQUIUM IN HISTORY | 3 | Colloquium in history |
| IS450 | PRINCIPLES OF DIS APP ENGR | 3 | Building on the foundations of algorithm implementation, data representation, web development, and basic networking, this course focuses on the principles of constructing a modern distributed application. Cadets study the principles, construction, and interaction of user interface, network, web server, and database components to produce an effective distributed application. Cadets will learn new tools and skills working as a team to analyze, design, and implement a system that solves a given problem. |
| IT105 | INTRO TO COMPUTING & INFO TECH | 3 | Designed to meet the needs of the core curriculum, this fundamental course provides an introduction to the principles behind the use, function, and operation of digital computers and information technology. The course presents program design and construction techniques in moderate detail, with consideration given to principles of software engineering. Cadets will use a PC-based, integrated program development environment and sophisticated application software. Problem solving using the computer as a tool is a central theme throughout the course as cadets will employ a design methodology to solve problems efficiently and logically. Emphasis is placed on learning how to learn and individual discovery. Cadets are introduced to the internet, the use of the World Wide Web, other information technology tools, and information security. |
| IT155 | ADV INTRO TO COMP & INFO TECH | 3 | Provides a more advanced study of computers, information technology and programming for cadets who have demonstrated ability beyond the level of the standard course. The course studies advanced microcomputer technology and advanced programming techniques. All graded material is identical to that in IT105. |
| IT305 | THEORY & PRAC OF MIL IT SYS | 3 | This course builds on the foundations of Information Technology (IT) acquired during the first two years of cadet experiences. It covers problem solving utilizing the digitization process, networking, databases, information systems, information assurance, and the evolving legal and ethical framework surrounding use of IT. Students study several aspects of military and commercial IT infrastructures, as well as the IT concepts and techniques that will facilitate their success as a military officer and inspire life-long learning in the IT domain. Concepts are reinforced through numerous in-class exercises and labs as well as team projects. |
| IT355 | ADV THEORY OF MIL IT SYS | 3 | Provides a more in-depth study of information technology for cadets who have demonstrated ability beyond the level of IT305. The course covers material presented in IT305 at an accelerated pace to provide cadets additional opportunities for application and hands-on experience with it principles and concepts. |
| IT382 | NETWORKED SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT | 3 | Cadets learn the technical management principles needed to configure, secure and operate networked computer systems that will be usable in the Army enterprise. The course will integrate fundamental knowledge of network functionality and the architecture of networked computers by teaching cadets the concepts required to configure, install, and maintain a network of computers. Cadets will learn how to provide the robustness, reliability, performance, and security expected of modern networked computer systems across large enterprises. |
| IT401 | IT SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT I | 3.5 | This course is the first in the senior-level integrative capstone experience. Its purpose is to prepare cadets for a coherent system integration experience. Conceptual material stresses requirements elicitation including aspects of the social, political, economic and ethical dimensions, project planning, and integration of information technologies to meet the needs of the user organization. |
| IT460 | INFORMATION WARFARE | 3 | This course addresses the entire spectrum of information warfare from the political, legal, and ethical aspects to the technology and techniques of cyber attack. The Political Science and Computer Science faculty jointly teach this course. The course covers how digitization has changed the world and the national security environment of the United States. Students also learn how attack and defense are conducted in cyberspace through classroom discussion and hands-on exercises in the IWAR Laboratory. The course culminates with a group project in which cadets are given a real scenario and possible U.S. objectives and then develop and brief an information operation plan. |
| KN355 | FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY | 3 | This course is designed to provide cadets with a detailed study of basic human anatomy and causal relationships between skeletal muscles and structures and the science of human movement. |
| KN455 | PSYCHOLOGY OF EXERCISE | 3 | This course is designed to introduce cadets to the psychology of physical activity and exercise. It starts by providing definitional clarity of terms and concepts associated with exercise, as well as a review of the generally accepted guidelines for physical activity, the components of health-related fitness, and the principles of exercise. The course examines the relationship between physical activity and a number of variables including cognitive functioning, mood, self-esteem, psychobiological outcomes, and negative behaviors to include exercise dependence, steroid abuse, and eating disorders. Individual correlates of exercise including behavioral, psychological, demographic and environmental influences are examined in depth. Cadets explore diverse theory regarding why individuals do or do not embrace a physically active lifestyle, and identify intervention programs to increase exercise levels. |
| KN460 | EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY | 3.5 | This course is designed to build on the exercise metabolism foundation and provide a broad foundation and understanding of the physiological aspects of human performance. A variety of topics are discussed to assist the students understand the interactive physiology associated with human performance. In addition, specific laboratory assessments will be utilized to assist in the understanding. Several peer-reviewed journals will be utilized to expose students to applied physiological research and assist with the understanding of human performance physiology. The capstone project will include a comprehensive physiological self-profile utilizing both field and laboratory assessments. |
| KN465 | MOTOR CONTROL AND LEARNING | 3 | This course will present the principles underlying the control and learning of motor skills. Central, neural, and sensory mechanisms that facilitate or inhibit the production, control, acquisition, retention, and transfer of motor skills will be discussed. Emphasis is given to a sound theoretical base from which to design and implement optimal learning and performance conditions. Motor control variables such as motor programs, brain systems, the spinal cord, musculoskeletal factors, and visual systems are explored. Motor learning/performance variables such as transfer, modeling, feedback, practice schedule, mental practice, memory, and attention will be discussed. The course employs lecture, labs, group activities, and research methods to understand motor learning principles. |
| KN485 | TOPICS: EXERCISE/SPORT SCIENCE | 3 | This course provides in-depth study of a special topic in exercise and sport sciences not offered elsewhere in the USMA curriculum. Course content will be based on the special expertise of the Visiting Professor, Rotating PhD, or a senior DPE faculty member. |
| KN494 | RESEARCH METHODS/DATA ANALYSIS | 3 | This course is designed to survey the basic types of analytical, descriptive, and experimental research methods often found in exercise science research to help cadets understand the systematic nature of problem solving. Cadets will also learn to analyze, interpret, and apply exercise science data. Cadets will survey a variety of statistical procedures: descriptive, inferential, and correlational. Emphasis will be given to analyzing and interpreting data from a research perspective. |
| LA203 | ARABIC I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Arabic. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in Arabic society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the Arabic-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic Arabic vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LA361 | INTERMEDIATE ARABIC I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in Arabic and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the Arabic-speaking world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in Arabic-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of Arabic grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of Arabic vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective Arabic courses. |
| LA385 | THE MEDIA IN ARABIC | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Arabic by working with selected authentic media, e.g., television, radio, film, video, newspapers, and periodicals. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in the Arabic-speaking world. |
| LA483 | ARAB CIVILIZATION I | 3 | This course and the following one, LA484, constitute an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of the Arabic-speaking world. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio-visual materials encompass this civilization's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its present-day political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the courses focus on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures of Arabic people. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater proficiency in Arabic. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in Arabic. |
| LA485 | ARABIC LITERATURE I | 3 | In this course cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative literary works and their relationship to the cultural context of the target society. Selected examples of various literary genres are read, discussed, and analyzed. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater proficiency in the target language. Video and film presentations supplement readings, where possible. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in the target language. |
| LC203 | CHINESE I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Chinese. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in Chinese society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the Chinese-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic Chinese vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LC361 | INTERMEDIATE CHINESE I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in Chinese and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the Chinese-speaking world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in Chinese-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of Chinese grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of Chinese vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective Chinese courses. |
| LC385 | THE MEDIA IN CHINESE | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Chinese by working with selected authentic media, e.g., television, radio, film, video, newspapers, and periodicals. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in the Chinese-speaking world. |
| LC483 | CHINESE CIVILIZATION I | 3 | This course and the following one, LC484, constitute an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of the Chinese-speaking world. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio-visual materials encompass this civilization's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its present-day political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the courses focus on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures of Chinese-speaking people. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in Chinese. |
| LC485 | CHINESE LITERATURE I | 3 | In this course cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative literary works and their relationship to the cultural context of the target society. Selected examples of various literary genres are read, discussed, and analyzed. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater proficiency in the target language. Video and film presentations supplement readings, where possible. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in the target language. |
| LE101 | ACDMC RDG/WRTG INTL CDTS I | 3.5 | This course seeks to solidify language proficiency of non-native English speakers within the cognitively rigorous demands of a military-academic environment. While essentially a writing course, significant rhetorical, oratorical, and analytical skills are developed through extensive reading and systematic analysis of culturally relevant texts to guide cadets past surface impressions of American culture into successive layers of complexity. Concurrently, research and documentation skills are stressed to develop positive control over linguistic and professional conventions expected of cadets in subsequent core English requirements. |
| LF203 | FRENCH I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in French. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in French society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the French-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic French vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LF361 | INTERMEDIATE FRENCH I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in French and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the French-speaking world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in French-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of French grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of French vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective French courses. |
| LF385 | ADVANCED FRENCH THRU MEDIA | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in French by working with selected authentic media, e.g., television, radio, film, video, newspapers and periodicals. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in countries where French is spoken. |
| LF483 | FRENCH CIVILIZATION I | 3 | This course constitutes an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of France from its beginnings to the end of World War II. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio-visual materials encompass this civilization's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its present-day political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the course focuses on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures of the people of France. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in French. |
| LF485 | SURVEY OF FRENCH LIT I | 3 | This course is a survey of French literature tracing its development from the Middle Ages through the 18th century. Cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative literary works and their relationship to the cultural context of French society. Selected examples of various literary genres are read, discussed, and analyzed. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater proficiency in French. Video and film presentations supplement readings, where possible. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in French. |
| LG203 | GERMAN I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in German. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in German society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the German-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic German vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LG361 | INTERMEDIATE GERMAN I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in German and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the German-speaking world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in German-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of German grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of German vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective German courses. |
| LG385 | ADVANCED GERMAN THRU MEDIA | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in German by working with selected authentic media, e.g., television, radio, film, video, newspapers and periodicals. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in countries where German is spoken. |
| LG483 | GERMAN CIVILIZATION I | 3 | This course constitutes an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland from their beginnings to the end of World War II. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio and visual materials encompass this civilization's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its present-day political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the course focuses on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures of the people of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in German. |
| LG485 | SURVEY OF GERMAN LIT I | 3 | This course is a survey of German literature tracing its development from the 19th century through post-World War II. Cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative literary works and their relationship to the cultural context of German society. Selected examples of various literary genres are read, discussed, and analyzed. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Video and film presentations supplement readings, where possible. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in German. |
| LN380 | NATURE OF MODERN LANGUAGES | 3 | Cadets learn that human language is a rule-based and universal system. They examine languages like those taught at USMA from the perspective of linguists, teachers and Army officers. Topics include the origin of and the basis for language, the nature of grammar, language sounds, the phenomenon of meaning, and how language attains communication. Knowledge gained is frequently interdisciplinary and relevant to courses offered at USMA in psychology, communication, English and foreign or second languages. Graded work may include giving oral presentations and completing a term project or paper. |
| LN487 | ADV IND STUDY-FOREIGN LANGS | 3 | LN487 and LN488 are essentially honors or tutorial courses available only to exceptionally motivated and qualified cadets who have exhausted all other language-specific courses and who wish to pursue a special field of interest in language, linguistics or a language-related field. The minimum completion requirement is a term paper, based on individual research of a length and on a topic upon which instructor and cadet have agreed. |
| LN491 | SEM ABROAD: ADV LANG & CULT I | 3 | Cadets attend a military academy or an undergraduate institution abroad and enroll in courses that enhance their language proficiency and cultural literacy. Courses may focus on language acquisition, literature, military science, history or the social sciences. If appropriate, cadets participate in military development activities. They attend lectures and seminars and complete all course requirements. The course grade becomes part of their Academic Summary. |
| LN492 | SEM ABROAD: ADV LANG & CULT II | 3 | Cadets attend a military academy or an undergraduate institution abroad and enroll in courses that enhance their language proficiency and cultural literacy. Courses may focus on language acquisition, literature, military science, history or the social sciences. If appropriate, cadets participate in military development activities. They attend lectures and seminars and complete all course requirements. The course grade becomes part of their Academic Summary. |
| LN493 | SEM ABROAD: ADV LANG&CULT III | 3 | Cadets attend a military academy or an undergraduate institution abroad and enroll in courses that enhance their language proficiency and cultural literacy. Courses may focus on language acquisition, literature, military science, history or the social sciences. If appropriate, cadets participate in military development activities. They attend lectures and seminars and complete all course requirements. The course grade becomes part of their Academic Summary. |
| LN494 | SEM ABROAD: ADV LANG & CULT IV | 3 | Cadets attend a military academy or an undergraduate institution abroad and enroll in courses that enhance their language proficiency and cultural literacy. Courses may focus on language acquisition, literature, military science, history or the social sciences. If appropriate, cadets participate in military development activities. They attend lectures and seminars and complete all course requirements. The course grade becomes part of their Academic Summary. |
| LN495 | SEM ABROAD: ADV LANG & CULT V | 3 | Cadets attend a military academy or an undergraduate institution abroad and enroll in courses that enhance their language proficiency and cultural literacy. Courses may focus on language acquisition, literature, military science, history or the social sciences. If appropriate, cadets participate in military development activities. They attend lectures and seminars and complete all course requirements. The course grade becomes part of their Academic Summary. |
| LP203 | PORTUGUESE I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Portuguese. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in Portuguese society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the Portuguese-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic Portuguese vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LP361 | INTERMEDIATE PORTUGUESE I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in Portuguese and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the Portuguese-speaking world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in Portuguese-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of Portuguese grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of Portuguese vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective Portuguese courses. |
| LP385 | ADV PORTUGUESE THRU MEDIA | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Portuguese by working with selected authentic media, e.g., television, radio, film, video, newspapers and periodicals. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in countries where Portuguese is spoken. |
| LP481 | SHORT STORY IN PORTUGUESE | 3 | In this course cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative Brazilian and Portuguese short stories and of their relationship to the cultural contexts of Brazilian and Portuguese society. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in Portuguese. |
| LR203 | RUSSIAN I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Russian. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in Russian society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the Russian-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic Russian vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LR361 | INTERMEDIATE RUSSIAN I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in Russian and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the Russian-speaking world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in Russian-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of Russian grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of Russian vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective Russian courses. |
| LR385 | ADVANCED RUSSIAN THRU MEDIA | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Russian by working with selected authentic media, e.g., television, radio, film, video, newspapers and periodicals. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in countries where Russian is spoken. |
| LR483 | RUSSIAN CIV I | 3 | This course constitutes an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of Russia and the Soviet Union from its beginnings to the end of World War II. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio-visual materials encompass this civilization's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the course focuses on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures in Russia. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in Russian. |
| LR485 | SURVEY OF RUSSIAN LITERATURE I | 3 | This course is a survey of Russian literature, tracing its development from the early 19th century to the beginning of WWI. Cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative literary works and their relationship to the cultural context of Russian society. Selected examples of various literary genres are read, discussed, and analyzed. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Video and film presentations supplement readings, where possible. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in Russian. |
| LS203 | SPANISH I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Spanish. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in Spanish society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the Hispanic world. Cadets acquire a command of basic Arabic vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| LS361 | INTERMEDIATE SPANISH I | 3 | In the intermediate course sequence, cadets develop proficiency in those skills necessary for communicating effectively in Spanish and for pursuing upper-level courses. Cadets develop speaking skills that enable them to engage in conversations on a variety of topics with other class members and with native speakers. Cadets reinforce and expand their language skills by reading, viewing, discussing, and writing about contemporary life, current events, and other cultural and historical topics as presented in selected materials of the Hispanic world. In addition, cadets gain an overview of the profession of arms in Spanish-speaking countries by reading, discussing, and writing about pertinent materials that focus on the mission and history of the military in those countries. Cadets also review the basic rules of Spanish grammar and continue to acquire a corpus of Spanish vocabulary. This course serves as a bridge to advanced elective Spanish courses. |
| LS385 | ADVANCED SPANISH THRU MEDIA | 3 | In this course cadets reinforce and expand their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Spanish by working with selected authentic media, (television, radio, film, video, newspapers and periodicals), going through a thorough review of the most difficult elements of Spanish grammar, and engaging in a rigorous program of vocabulary acquisition. Cultural competence is enhanced by exploring topics that focus on current issues and everyday life in countries where Spanish is spoken. |
| LS483 | SPANISH CIV AND CULTURE | 3 | This course constitutes an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of Spain. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio-visual materials encompass spain's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its present-day political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the course focuses on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures of the Spanish people. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. The work is done in Spanish. |
| LS485 | SPANISH-AMER LIT TO 1950 | 3 | In this course cadets gain basic competence in the knowledge and comprehension of representative literary works and their relationship to the Spanish-American cultural context. Selected examples of various literary genres are read and discussed, and analyzed. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater language proficiency. Video and film presentations supplement readings, where possible. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays, or preparing a term paper. The work is done in Spanish. |
| LW310 | INTRO TO LEGAL METHOD | 3 | This course provides the foundation for the American Legal System program. This course first explores the nature, function, sources, and structure of the law and legal systems. Next, the course examines legal reasoning. Cadets will explore systemic methods of legal analysis and apply those methods to the interpretation of cases, statutes, regulations, and constitutions. Next, cadets will learn fundamentals of legal research and writing. Lastly, cadets will consider various principles and techniques related to argumentation, logical reasoning, and advocacy. |
| LW403 | CONSTITUTIONAL/MILITARY LAW | 3.5 | This course studies the United States Constitution and the Military Justice System. Cadets will acquire information and skills in order to recognize and resolve constitutional and legal problems. The course provides analytical models for dealing with problems regarding societal and military order. Finally, the course seeks to enable the cadet to make an intelligent commitment to the values and preferences embodied in the Constitution and our system of military and civilian law. Examples from military law are used to model fundamental principles examined in the course. Significant court decisions are explored to support the course goals. Specific substantive areas include: separation of powers, judicial review, war powers, equal protection, privacy, individual rights, searches and inspections, military justice processes, and military criminal law. |
| LW410 | COMPARATIVE LEGAL SYSTEMS | 3 | This course uses a comparative approach to study the three major legal systems of the world: the English common law system, the civil law system (and its branches) of continental Europe, and the Islamic legal system. These three systems are the foundation for the laws and legal systems of most of the world today, including Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and east Asia. Similarities and differences between these systems and the American legal system are explored. Social, political, and economic factors which distinguish these systems and more recently have begun to integrate them are covered. Emphasis is placed on the sources of law, the procedures for resolving legal disputes, and basic principles of civil and criminal justice. |
| LW472 | CRIMINAL LAW | 3 | This course will examine the legal, social, religious, cultural, and political motivations that justice systems use to characterize certain actions as “criminal.” The course will revolve around the traditional reasons for criminal law, namely blameworthiness and punishment, and also examine how institutions use criminal law to serve their narrow interests. This course will introduce theories surrounding criminal law and illustrate how cadets may apply law immediately in their roles as officers. The course will examine federal and state criminal codes and also the Uniform Code of Military Justice. From a legal perspective based on the U.S. Constitution and other criminal codes, some of the topics covered include the death penalty, insanity, corporate crime, conspiracy, murder, necessity, and self-defense. |
| LW474 | LAW OF WAR | 3 | This course is designed to develop in each student an understanding of basic law of war (LOW), with an emphasis on issues that might arise on the battlefield at a tactical level. The ethical and historical background of LOW will be examined, including Geneva Conventions and protocols, and how LOW is enforced on international and national levels, to include prosecution under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Illustrative examples will include the Nuremberg Tribunal, My Lai, and the Gulf War. The emphasis is on the LOW responsibilities of the junior officer. |
| LW475 | ADV CONSTITUTIONAL LAW SEM | 3 | This seminar course covers a broad range of traditional and contemporary constitutional law topics. In addition to studying U.S. Supreme Court cases in particular areas of constitutional law, cadets are given an opportunity to study the historical foundations of the U.S. Constitution and underlying theories and principles of constitutionalism. The seminar format demands active participation in classroom debate, role playing, and critical thinking about complex issues of law and policy. As part of the seminar curriculum, each cadet will assume the role of a Supreme Court Justice. In this role, the cadet will study a real case pending before the Supreme Court and will write an abbreviated opinion reflecting the cadet's decision based on principled reasoning. The seminar typically travels to the Supreme Court to hear argument in the studied case as part of the opinion writing exercise. |
| LW481 | INTERNATIONAL LAW | 3 | LW 481 is a required course for cadets seeking to graduate with an American Legal System major or field of study. The field of international law is one of the most dynamic areas of the law, and its principles are often applied in addressing the complex security problems facing our nation. This course will familiarize you with the body of rules and expectations which govern the rights and obligations of states and international organizations, during both times of peace and conflict. In particular, this course will emphasize the aspects of international law that are relevant to the operational and tactical problems that you will confront as you deploy overseas. This course will integrate some themes from other courses in the Department of Law and reinforce some fundamental principles you will confront as you seek to understand the relationship between law, diplomacy, and military operations. |
| LW482 | NATIONAL SECURITY LAW | 3 | This seminar examines the legal framework for national security decisions. Cadets will analyze the delicate balance of liberty and security that must exist to preserve a democratic society. Particular areas include: constitutional separation of powers and shared responsibility for national security; the legality and scope of war and other uses of armed force short of war; access to and protection of sensitive information; intelligence collection and clandestine activities; the role of the media, responses to terrorism and international organized crime; and the formulation of national security policy and law. |
| LW488 | BUSINESS LAW | 3 | This course introduces cadets to the basics of business and commercial law. Contractual principles under the common law and Uniform Commercial Code are emphasized. Current legal issues in the following areas are explored: consumer protection; real, personal, and intellectual property law; antitrust law; and employment discrimination. Included is a survey of the basic principles of government contracting law. Additionally, cadets engage in business negotiations exercises. This course employs both case study and problem-solving methods of instruction. |
| LW495 | JURISPRUDENCE AND LEGAL THEORY | 3 | This course studies legal thought and theory, focusing on the concept of the rule of law. It analyzes the rule of law using the perspectives of jurisprudence (the ideas and reasoning of jurists) and legal theory (using insight from disciplines such as science, economics, and political theory to address legal problems). It explores theoretical and practical approaches to identifying, developing, and preserving the rule of law, such as natural law, legal realism, law and economics, critical legal studies, and feminist jurisprudence. It applies these approaches to problems related to the rule of law, such as constitutionalism, constitutional and statutory interpretation, crime and punishment, economic development, and human rights. |
| LW498 | THESIS I: PROPOSAL & RESEARCH | 3 | The purpose of the Senior Thesis is to provide cadets with the opportunity to create a project that is academically, professionally, and personally meaningful to them and that reflects their thinking and abilities as developed at West Point and in the Department of Law. Through the scholarly project that results from this course, cadets will be expected to show how they and their work have progressed and that their work is of professional quality. Cadets will choose a faculty advisor with whom they will work over two semesters. In collaboration with the faculty advisor, cadets will explore their chosen areas of law with a goal of producing a project, usually a thirty page paper that is of professional quality. This paper will be completed during LW499. Cadets will meet individually with their advisors on a regular basis to discuss the law, progress on the thesis, and developmental issues. |
| LZ203 | PERSIAN I (STANDARD) | 3.5 | In the standard course sequence, cadets acquire a basic proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in Persian. Learning activities focus on situations cadets are likely to encounter in Persian society. Cadets are taught how to express simple ideas and basic needs, comprehend the language in everyday contexts, and read simplified texts and brief, authentic selections. In addition to speaking, listening and reading skills, cadets also learn how to write sentences, paragraphs and/or short compositions on familiar topics. Through readings and discussions, cadets are introduced to the cultures and history of the Persian-speaking world. Cadets acquire a command of basic Persian vocabulary and gain a general understanding of how the language works, and they become able to apply that knowledge when learning other foreign languages. |
| MA100 | PRECALCULUS MATHEMATICS | 3 | MA100 prepares cadets with background deficiencies in algebra and trigonometry for the core mathematics program. The course develops fundamental skills in algebra, trigonometry, and functions, through an introduction to mathematical modeling and problem solving. Since this course does not count toward graduation requirements; cadets enrolled in MA100 will forfeit an elective opportunity. |
| MA103 | MATH MODELING/INTRO CALCULUS | 4 | MA103 is the first course of the mathematics core curriculum, and it emphasizes applied mathematics through modeling - using effective problem solving strategies and modeling theory to solve complex and often ill-defined problems. The course exercises mathematical concepts while nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and learning through activities performed in disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary settings. Special emphasis is placed on introducing calculus using continuous and discrete mathematics through applied settings. The course exploits a variety of technological tools to develop numerical, graphical, and analytical solutions that enhance understanding. |
| MA104 | CALCULUS I | 4.5 | This is the second semester of the mathematics core curriculum. This course and Calculus II, the third semester of the mathematics core curriculum, provide a foundation for the continued study of mathematics and for the subsequent study of the physical sciences, the social sciences, and engineering. Combined coverage includes single and multi-variable differential calculus, single and multi-variable integral calculus, and differential equations. Throughout both courses mathematical models motivate the study of topics such as optimization, accumulation, change in one and several variables, differential equations, motion in space, and other topics from the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the decision sciences. MA104 covers single and multi-variable differential calculus including 3-dimensional geometry and vectors. |
| MA153 | ADV MULTIVARIABLE CALCULUS | 4.5 | This is the first course of a two-semester advanced mathematics sequence for selected cadets who have validated single variable calculus and demonstrated strength in the mathematical sciences. It is designed to provide a foundation for the continued study of mathematics, sciences, and engineering. This course consists of an advanced coverage of topics in multivariable calculus. Topics may include a study of infinite sequences and series, vectors and geometry of space, vector functions, partial derivatives, multiple integrals, and vector calculus. An understanding of course material is enhanced through the use of a computer algebra system. |
| MA205 | CALCULUS II | 4.5 | This is the third semester of the mathematics core curriculum. This course with Calculus I, the second semester of the mathematics core curriculum, provides a foundation for the continued study of mathematics and for the subsequent study of the physical sciences, the social sciences, and engineering. Combined coverage includes single and multi-variable differential calculus, single and multi-variable integral calculus, and differential equations. Throughout both courses mathematical models motivate the study of topics such as optimization, accumulation, change in one and several variables, differential equations, motion in space, and other topics from the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the decision sciences. MA205 covers single and multi-variable integral calculus and elementary ordinary differential equations. The sequence culminates with an introduction to the mathematics most applicable to each cadet’s major or engineering stem. |
| MA206 | PROBABILITY & STATISTICS | 3 | This is the final course in the mathematics core curriculum. It provides a professional development experience upon which cadets can structure their reasoning under conditions of uncertainty and presents fundamental probability and statistical concepts that support the USMA core curriculum. Coverage includes data analysis; modeling, probabilistic models, simulation, random variables and their distributions, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, and simple linear regression. Applied problems motivate concepts, and technology enhances understanding, problem solving, and communication. |
| MA255 | MATH MODELING/INTRO DIF EQ | 4 | This is the second course of a two-semester advanced mathematics sequence for selected cadets who have validated single variable calculus and demonstrated strength in the mathematical sciences. It is designed to provide a foundation for the continued study of mathematics, sciences, and engineering. This course emphasizes the interaction between mathematics and the physical sciences through modeling with differential equations. Topics may include a study of first order differential equations, first order difference equations, second order linear equations, partial differential equations and Fourier series, systems of first order linear equations, numerical methods, and nonlinear equations and stability. An understanding of course material is enhanced through the use of a computer algebra system. |
| MA364 | ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS | 3 | This course provides additional mathematical techniques and deepens the understanding of concepts in mathematics to support continued study in science and engineering. Emphasis is placed upon using mathematics to gain insight into natural and man-made phenomena that give rise to problems in differential equations and vector calculus. Calculus topics focus on three-dimensional space curves, vector fields and operations, divergence and curl, line and surface integrals. Analytic and numerical solutions to differential equations and systems of differential equations are found using a variety of techniques. Linear algebra topics include solutions to homogeneous and non-homogeneous systems of equations. An introduction to classical partial differential equations is included in the Spring semester. |
| MA371 | LINEAR ALGEBRA | 3 | This course emphasizes both the computational and theoretical aspects of linear algebra one encounters in many subjects ranging from economics to engineering. The course covers solutions of linear systems of equations and the algebra of matrices. The foundational aspects of vector spaces and linear transformations to include linear dependence and independence, subspaces, bases and dimension, inner products, and orthonormalization are developed. This is rounded out with a detailed investigation of eigenvalues and eigenvectors as they relate to diagonalization, quadratic equations, and systems of differential equations. The Invertible Matrix Theorem is explored as the conceptual/theoretical thread of the course. A computer algebra system is used to explore concepts and compute solutions to problems. Applications of the course material are included in the form of special problems to illustrate its wide scope. |
| MA372 | INTRODUCTION TO DISCRETE MATH | 3 | The purpose of this course is to introduce topics in Discrete Mathematics, providing a foundation for further study and application. The topics covered are useful to both the applied mathematician and the computer scientist. They include propositional logic, elements of set theory, combinatorics, relations, functions, partitions, methods of proof, induction and recursion, digraphs, trees, finite state machines, and algebraic systems. Specific applications to computer science are presented. |
| MA376 | APPLIED STATISTICS | 3 | This course builds on the foundations presented in the core probability and statistics course to provide a broad introduction to some of the most common models and techniques in applied statistics. The mathematical basis for each of the models and techniques is presented with particular emphasis on the development of the required test statistics and their distributions. Topics covered include hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, categorical data analysis, regression analysis, and nonparametric methods. |
| MA381 | NONLINEAR OPTIMIZATION | 3 | This course provides an undergraduate presentation of nonlinear topics in mathematical programming that builds on multivariable Calculus II. The emphasis of this course is on developing a conceptual understanding of the fundamental topics introduced. These topics include general convexity, convex functions, derivative-based multivariable search techniques, minima and maxima of convex functions, gradients, hessian matrices, Lagrange Multipliers, Fritz-John and Kuhn-Tucker optimality conditions, and constrained and unconstrained optimization. Computer software is used to explore and expose various key ideas throughout the course. |
| MA383 | FOUNDATIONS OF MATH | 3 | This course introduces the student to the methods and language of upper division mathematics. It presents formal set theory, and introduces the student to the methods of formulating and writing mathematical proofs. Finally, it provides the student a rigorous introduction to the theory of relations, functions, and infinite sets. |
| MA386 | INTRO TO NUMERICAL ANALYSIS | 3 | This course develops an understanding of the methods for solving mathematical problems using a digital computer. Algorithms leading to solution of mathematical problems will be examined for consistency, stability, and convergence. After a brief review of calculus theory, a study of error analysis and computer arithmetic will provide the framework for the study of the following topics: solutions of equations of one variable, solutions of linear and nonlinear systems of equations, the use of polynomials to approximate discrete data, curve fitting, numerical integration and differentiation, and the approximation of continuous functions. Special problems will incorporate computer graphics and the use of mathematical software libraries to produce numerical solutions of applied problems. |
| MA391 | MATHEMATICAL MODELING | 3 | This course is designed to give cadets the opportunity to develop skills in model construction and model analysis while addressing interesting scenarios with practical applications from a wide variety of fields. This course serves as the entry point for both the Mathematical Sciences major and the Operations Research major. The course addresses the complex process of translating real-world events into mathematical language, solving the resulting mathematical model (iterating as necessary), and interpreting the results in terms of real world issues. Topics include model development from data, regression, general curve fitting strategies, and deterministic and stochastic model development. Interdisciplinary projects based on actual modeling scenarios are used to integrate the various topics into a coherent theme. |
| MA461 | GRAPH THEORY AND NETWORKS | 3 | This course introduces the student to the techniques, algorithms, and structures used in graph theory and network flows in order to solve real world discrete optimization problems. Basic definitions relating to graphs and digraphs, together with a large number of examples and applications are provided. Cadets learn to implement new graph theory techniques in their area of study. Emphasis is on modeling, algorithms, and optimization. |
| MA484 | PARTIAL DIFF EQUATIONS | 3 | The course is devoted to the solution of the classical partial differential equations of mathematical physics and most engineering fields. For example, these equations describe such diverse phenomena as the flow of heat in a metal plate, the gravitational field of the solar system, the vibration of a structural beam, and the energy levels of the hydrogen atom. The subject matter has application in many fields and should be of interest to mathematics, science, and engineering concentrators. Specific topics covered are the heat, wave, and potential equations, Fourier series, series solutions to ordinary differential equations, special functions, and boundary value problems. |
| MA487 | MATHEMATICAL ANALYSIS II | 3 | Continuation of MA387. Course coverage includes Riemann and Stieltjes integration, infinite series, sequences and series of functions, uniform convergence, and power series. |
| MA488 | SPECIAL TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS | 3 | This course provides an in-depth study of a special topic in mathematics not offered elsewhere in the USMA curriculum. Course content will be based on the special expertise of the visiting professor or a senior mathematical science faculty member. |
| MA491 | RESEARCH SEMNR-APPLD MATH | 3 | The student integrates the mathematical concepts and techniques learned in previous courses with the principles developed throughout the whole USMA Curriculum to solve a current problem of interest to the individual, to the Academy, or to agencies in the Department of the Army. Cadets may select problems from a list of suitable projects provided by the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Cadets choose a faculty advisor who has an interest and background in the problem. Cadets may work individually or in small teams, depending on the nature of the research. Regular workshop sessions will be held. Cadets will be given an opportunity to present their research at the Service Academies Student Mathematics Conference and/or other undergraduate conferences. Research reports will be reviewed, edited, and compiled into the USMA Transactions on Cadet Mathematical Research. |
| MA493A | OPNL CALC AND TRANSFORMS | 3 | This course is the logical extension and synthesis of MA484 and MA485. It employs the integral calculus of complex functions and the theory of residues to investigate solutions to a number of partial differential equations arising from electrostatics, thermostatics, elasticity, gravitation, and other fields of continuum mechanics. The Poisson-Integral Formula is applied to the solution of boundary-value problems. Fourier and Laplace transforms are studied in detail and are used to develop general techniques for the solution of many ordinary, partial, and integral equations which result from the above applications. |
| MA493B | REAL VARIABLE THEORY | 3 | Continuation of MA487. Topics include sequences and series of functions, equicontinuity power series, Fourier series, the exponential and logarithmic function, and the Gamma function. The last portion of the course will be devoted to individual research projects. |
| MA493C | TOPICS IN NUMERICAL ANLYSIS | 3 | A continuation of MA396. Topics include boundary-value problems for ordinary and/or partial differential equations. |
| MA493D | INTRODUCTION TO TOPOLOGY | 3 | The course begins with cardinality and the modern definition of a function. Then the basic properties of topological spaces--compactness, connectedness, and continuity--will be emphasized. Special attention will be given to metric topologies on Euclidean spaces. Complete metric spaces and function spaces will be introduced. |
| MA493E | TOPICS IN ANALYSIS | 3 | This course provides cadets the opportunity to pursue in detail subjects of special interest. |
| MA498 | SR THESIS I: RSCRCH & PROPOSAL | 3 | The purpose of the Senior Thesis is to provide cadets with an unique opportunity to create a scholarly product that is academically, professionally, and personally meaningful to them and that reflects their thinking and abilities as developed at West Point and in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Cadets will choose a faculty advisor with whom they will collaborate over two semesters. Cadets will meet on a regular basis with their advisor to discuss mathematics, progress on their research and thesis, and developmental issues. The objectives of the research are: (1) to synthesize and cohere the cadet's studies; (2) to apply methodological skills of research design, conceptual reasoning, analysis, and research gained to a selected area of substantive interest; (3) to extend the cadet's in-depth study of the selected area of interest beyond the level obtained in the Mathematical Sciences Major; (4) to design and conduct focused research beyond the constrained opportunities in elective courses; and (5) to develop cadet skills in conceptual reasoning, critical analysis, and effective writing. |
| ME306 | DYNAMICS | 3 | Dynamics examines the motion of particles, systems of particles, and rigid bodies under the influence of forces. It focuses on the use of Newton’s Second Law, in three major, progressive blocks of instruction—from scalar, then vector, treatments of rectilinear and curvilinear motion of single particles; through vector motion of systems of particles; to general three-dimensional motion of rigid bodies. The course also provides brief introductions to energy methods: work-energy and impulse-momentum. |
| ME311 | THERMAL-FLUID SYSTEMS I | 3.5 | Thermal-Fluid Systems I is an integrated study of fundamental topics in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. The course introduces conservation principles for mass, energy, and linear momentum as well as the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics. Principles are applied to incompressible flow in pipes and turbomachinery, external flows, power generation systems, refrigeration cycles, and total air-conditioning focusing on the control volume approach. Laboratory exercises are integrated into classroom work. This course includes completion of a comprehensive, out-of-class design problem. This design problem provides the opportunity for students to apply engineering science and the engineering design process to a hands-on project. |
| ME350 | INTRO THERMAL SYS W/ ARMY APPL | 3 | This course is presented within the framework of a common model for the engineering design process. This model serves as a conceptual framework for study in the engineering thermal sciences. This course concerns the study of mediums and energy. The basic conservation laws are developed. The student will gain a basic engineering knowledge of thermal science applications in the Army. Emphasis is placed on practical applications of internal combustion and gas turbine engines and fluid flow. Laboratory exercises are integrated into classroom work. |
| ME370 | COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN | 3 | Explores the use of computer methods as an aid to solving engineering problems. Computer techniques are studied in a variety of engineering contexts. Topics include 3D solid modeling, engineering analysis, engineering computer programming, and graphical presentation of information. Students learn to apply a variety of engineering-related programs or routines. Students write, document, and use programs of their own in design scenarios. Considerable emphasis is placed on use of the computer as a tool in the engineering design process. |
| ME380 | ENGINEERING MATERIALS | 3.5 | Course explores the relationship between the microscopic structure and macroscopic properties of materials used in engineering applications. The origin of mechanical, physical properties is studied. Emphasized is an understanding of the fundamental aspects of atomic and microstructural concepts for proper materials selection and enhancement of engineering properties. Materials under study are metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, nano-sized/structured materials, biomaterials, smart materials, and semi- and super-conductors. Laboratory exercises are incorporated throughout the course to provide practical experience in making decisions concerning material composition and processing in order to optimize engineering properties. Experiences from the field are detailed to demonstrate application of concepts. |
| ME404 | MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN | 3 | This course introduces mechanical engineering design as an iterative decision making process. It also introduces engineering economics and ethics. One engineering design problem reinforces the design process instruction and culminates in a student competition. Cadets begin an integrative capstone design experience that applies the Mechanical Engineering Design Process to a real-world engineering problem addressing social, political, economic, and technical issues. Students begin capstone assignments early in the course and continue their projects with ME496. |
| ME450 | ME DESIGN OF ARMY SYSTEMS | 3 | This course presents mechanical engineering design as an iterative decision making process. A wide variety of mathematics, science, and engineering fundamentals are applied to the synthesis, analysis, and evaluation of mechanical components. The culminating design project provides an opportunity to experience design and to consider reliability, economics, and the judicious use of resources. A paper design and design and build projects reinforce the design process instruction. The course culminates in a student competition. |
| ME480 | HEAT TRANSFER | 3.5 | The three modes of heat transfer, conduction, convection, and radiation, are studied in detail and applications are made to various engineering systems. The principles of conduction and convection are used to study the mechanisms of heat transfer during boiling, condensation and the design of heat exchangers. |
| ME481 | AIRCRAFT PERFOR/STAT STBLTY | 3 | The course applies the principles developed in applied aerodynamics to develop the equations of motion for a rigid aircraft in steady state level flight, maneuvering flight, and during takeoff and landing. These equations are analyzed to determine such performance characteristics as maximum range, endurance, turning rate, climb rate, etc. Piston-prop, turbo-prop, and jet aircraft are considered. The equations of motion are then analyzed to develop static stability criteria and investigate steady state control characteristics. Two flight laboratories in the departments fixed-wing airplanes provide an opportunity to obtain performance data and analyze the steady state stability and control of an actual aircraft. |
| ME489 | ADV STUDY IN MECH ENGRNG | 3 | The cadet pursues advanced study of a topic in mechanical engineering on an individual or small group basis, independent of a formal classroom setting. Similar to graduate level research, the scope of the selected project is tailored to the interests of the cadet based on resources and in consultation with a faculty advisor. To develop research skills, the cadet is integral in all phases of project completion by defining objectives, studying fundamentals and background material, outlining the approach, conducting analysis, and communicating results. |
| ME490 | TOPICS IN MECHANICAL ENGNRG | 3 | This course provides in-depth study of a special topic in engineering mechanics or mechanical engineering not offered elsewhere in the USMA curriculum. Course content will be based on the special expertise of the Visiting Professor or a senior mechanical engineering faculty member. |
| ME492 | PWR TRAINS & VEH DYNAMICS | 3 | A follow-on to ME491 with emphasis on analysis, testing, and evaluation of automotive (ground vehicle) power trains and dynamic systems to understand the underlying principles affecting vehicle design. Clutches, transmissions (manual and automatic), differentials, wheels and tires, as well as braking, steering and suspension systems are studied in detail to include their effect on vehicular or other system performance. High speed, tracked vehicle application of the above systems is also covered. Theory is verified with hands on experience in the laboratory. Component design problems are interspersed throughout the course. |
| MG381 | INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT | 3 | This course surveys the field of general management. It introduces cadets to the many managerial activities organizational leaders use to effectively and efficiently direct an organization's resources (human, financial, physical, and information). Cadets' multidisciplinary study of these activities will focus on the integration of behavioral, quantitative, and economic sciences through the management framework of planning and decision making, organizing, leading, and controlling. In addition cadets will examine the history of the field of management. The concepts of ethical management, cultural diversity, and Total Quality Management will be stressed throughout the entire course as cadets learn to define problems, generate alternatives, and then develop and implement plans to solve those problems. |
| MG382 | HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT | 3 | This course begins with the premise that people are a firm’s most important resource; and that the management of this critical resource ultimately determines the success or failure of the organization. The course examines the behavioral science principles used to foster the creation of effective work environments -- environments specifically designed to elicit motivation, commitment, productivity and satisfaction. The course gives special attention to how human resource management (HRM) practices can give a firm a Competitive Advantage by using High Performance Work Systems, tending to Stakeholders' needs (customers, employees, stockholders, and the community) and through strategic Globalization. By analyzing HRM practices in terms of these three critical organizational outcomes, students learn how to apply HRM concepts to positively influence the success of the organization. |
| MG410 | MANAGERIAL FINANCE | 3 | The purpose of MG410 is to provide and integrate the analytical tools learned in this and other courses in a management setting. Specifically, this course will provide the fundamentals of the time value of money, discrete and continuous expected value calculations, the cash flow diagram, net present value; interpreting statement of cash flows, income statements and balance sheets; discounted cash flow, weighted average cost of capital, capital structure decisions, and planning, programming and budgeting . By applying the various quantitative analysis techniques in a managerial setting, cadets will be better prepared to support their decisions numerically. This course is required for cadets pursuing the Management major. |
| MG420 | OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT | 3 | The purpose of MG420 is to provide cadets with the tools to deal with the quantitative aspects of design and analysis of operations management. Emphasis is on identification, analysis, and solution of production problems using applied quantitative techniques using the case study technique. In addition to case studies, simulations reinforce the problem-solving techniques necessary for today's successful managers. Specific methods and techniques taught and applied are operations strategy, product design and selection, supply chain management, total quality management, forecasting, capacity planning, facility location, facility layout, work system design, inventory management, material requirements planning, and scheduling. This course is required for cadets pursuing the Management major. |
| MS200 | FUNDAMENTALS: ARMY OPERATIONS | 1.5 | This course introduces the cadet to the small unit leader's role in the Army by describing the administrative and training requirements at the platoon level. Fundamentals of Army Operations explores the Army leadership doctrine, Army evaluation reporting systems, small unit supply operations, unit maintenance operations, training management, and Troop Leading Procedures (TLPs). As a result of this course, cadets will be able to describe basic administrative tasks and become better prepared to lead platoons in the Army. Additionally, cadets will demonstrate their knowledge through a series of practical exercises and tactical decision exercises (TDE). |
| MS300 | COMBINED ARMS OPERATIONS | 1.5 | This course builds upon the unit deployment scenario and instruction introduced during MS200. The course further develops the cadetýs basic knowledge of doctrine, training management, Troop Leading Procedures (TLPs), tactics and combined arms warfare. The cadet is challenged to apply this knowledge at an intermediate level of tactical thinking at the combined arms level. Instruction in the fundamentals of Army Operations continues with emphasis on offensive and defensive tactics. Additionally, cadets will demonstrate an increased understanding of the TLPs by planning and rehearsing a platoon-level offensive and defensive operation incorporating multiple War Fighting Functions. In addition to tactics, cadets continue their instruction in the Army's Training Management System by assessing and planning unit training. Cadets also examine the small unit leader's role in ensuring that the morale and ethical decision making process is applied to all operations. Finally, cadets further their preparation for leadership roles as Lieutenants during the full spectrum of operations. |
| MS310 | TACTICS | 3 | This course is designed to introduce the cadet to the study of tactics, the employment of units in combat. The course presents the material in three blocks of instruction. The first block focuses on the fundamentals of tactics, using current U.S. Army doctrine. The second block introduces concepts on the art and science of tactics, exploring techniques for various operations at the small unit level, the effects of the environment, and tactics used by enemy forces in past engagements with U.S. forces. Block three focuses on tactical decision making, and introduces the Military Decision Making Process. Finally, cadets use the knowledge acquired in the course to analyze a recent tactical engagement in a capstone exercise. |
| MS345 | ARMY TRANSFORMATION | 3 | This interdisciplinary course examines the subject of military innovation or transformation from a theoretical, historical and policy oriented perspective. Using the U.S. Army as the primary object of inquiry, the course addresses several key questions: Why do militaries innovate? How does this process of innovation occur? Why do attempts at military innovation succeed or fail? The first course block introduces competing theoretical explanations that provide a framework for understanding military innovation at the systemic, state and organizational levels of analysis. Block two of the course examines several historical cases of U.S. Army transformation in the 20th Century and their effect on the U.S. Army today. The final course block analyzes the U.S. Army's current attempts at transformation. This block explores the possibility of a recent Revolution in Military Affairs and considers the dilemmas of future U.S. Army transformation given emerging technology, current operational requirements and the international security environment. |
| MS350 | MILITARY COMMUNICATIONS | 3 | MS350 is a communication course grounded in application of sound communication techniques relevant to the tactical and strategic levels of war as well as communication techniques applicable for the proper delivery and reception of messages in a professional organization. |
| MS360 | SP OPNS/LOW-INTENSITY CONFLICT | 3 | This course is divided into two sub-courses. The first sub-course examines the class of military operations commonly referred to as low intensity conflict (LIC). It explores the nature and dynamics of LIC with particular attention to the differences between LIC and conventional, mid to high intensity conflict. Specifically, cadets will examine insurgency and counterinsurgency, international terrorism, and peace operations and strategy and tactics appropriate for each. The second sub-course examines Special Operations Forces (SOF). This sub-course explores the unique methods of special operators and the close relationship between SOF and LIC. Cadets will examine how U.S. SOF are organized; how special operations in general succeed; and why SOF are particularly well suited to LIC. Several subject matter expert guest speakers are integrated into the instruction throughout the course. |
| MS455 | COMPARATIVE MILITARY SYSTEMS | 3 | This course's objective is to analyze the defense policies of various countries and the outcomes of those defense policies, to include national security objectives, national military objectives, military doctrine, force structure, and military capabilities. Countries studied will include actual and potential coalition partners and potential adversaries. Cadets will examine the political, economic, and social influences on each military establishment. Cultural influences on the development and implementation of the defense policies for countries studied will be examined, including the effects each country's culture has on the missions, structure, roles, and capabilities of the military. Cadets will develop their own framework of analysis to critically analyze the defense polices and cultures of other countries, and will be able to clearly articulate that analysis through written and oral means. Guest speakers include liaison officers and Foreign Area Officers to provide insight into the specific military establishments of those countries studied. |
| MS460 | COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS | 3 | MS460, Counterinsurgency Operations, exists in order that cadets will 1) demonstrate a theoretical and pragmatic understanding of insurgencies, to include their temperaments, composition, strategies, employment, and irregular battlefield operating systems; 2) demonstrate a theoretical and pragmatic understanding of counter-insurgency operations, and the interrelationships between the environment, operations, enemies, and strategies; 3) demonstrate a command of historical U.S. counter-insurgency doctrinal concepts, how they relate to theory and strategy, where they are inadequate, and where they are beneficial; 4) demonstrate sound analysis and application of key course concepts using historical case studies; and 5) improve oral and written communication skills. This course begins broadly and then narrows in order to integrate theory and strategy with tactics and practicality. The first sub-course introduces the insurgency, an understanding of which is essential to leading, organizing, and implementing successful operations against it. In the second sub-course, students examine counter-insurgency operations from theoretical, strategic, operational, tactical, and practical perspectives. The final sub-course presents three historical case studies intended to engage each student's learning with both analysis and application. At a minimum, MS460 requirements include: an oral presentation that evaluates the success or failure of an historical insurgency; a short biographical paper on the methods and persona of an historical irregular warrior; a WPR that requires cadets to think through a counterinsurgency scenario in branch specific roles; and a TEE that requires cadets to examine methodologies from successful historical case studies within the scenario of a failed historical case study. |
| MS470 | MILITARY STRATEGY | 3 | This course provides an overview of how national security strategy is translated into effective military strategy. The course addresses three central issues: (1) the appropriate ends of military strategy, (2) the ways we use our military capabilities to achieve national objectives, (3) and the means applied to achieved desired strategic end states. The first part of the course focuses on strategic fundamentals to include enduring theoretical approaches to strategy and basic strategic principles. Next, we apply knowledge from the first part of the course to assess strategy through the detailed examination of historical case studies. Finally, we examine current US strategic systems and how national-level strategy is synthesized into effective theater level military strategy. This includes examination of the roles and responsibilities of the various combatant commands, the examination of regional strategic issues and how our military addresses those issues, as well as the limitations of military force in the 21st century security environment. |
| MS489 | ADV IND STUDY-MIL ART & SCI | 3 | The course provides an environment that is conducive to independent effort in a subject area of special interest to the cadet. Original research or specialized study can be accomplished in any of the many fields within Military Art and Science. The course is conducted in three phases. First, the cadet and the individual advisor from the Military Art and Science faculty will reach agreement on a subject area for research. Research methods will be studied under the direction of the faculty member. Research may involve field trips and personal interviews with experts in the area of study. In the second phase, the cadet will engage in independent research and prepare a draft analytical paper or report detailing the findings. During this period, frequent consultation with the faculty advisor occurs regarding the progress in the project. In the third phase, the cadet will present and define the findings before a faculty committee. |
| MX400 | OFFICERSHIP | 2 | MX 400 is a capstone course that challenges cadets to reflect upon, integrate, and synthesize their experiences in the six Cadet Leader Development System domains as they commence the transformation to commissioned officership. Cadets will achieve a thorough intellectual understanding of the four clusters of expert knowledge of the military professional--military-technical, moral-ethical, political-cultural, and human development. Successful completion of this course will enable each cadet to achieve competence and confidence in a new self-identity in the four facets of the role of a commissioned officer--a Soldier, a leader of character, a servant of the Nation, and a member of the profession of arms. Each graduate will be capable of executing the fundamental practices of the military professional--the repetitive exercise of discretionary judgment in decision making and taking actions that fulfill the moral and legal responsibilities of commissioned officers. Upon graduation, each new 2LT will be fully prepared for the immediate challenges of junior officership and capable of a lifetime of professional growth as an officer in the United States Army. |
| NE300 | NUCLEAR REACTOR ANALYSIS | 3 | This course provides the student with an understanding of the fundamental physical principles involved in nuclear fission and the operation of nuclear reactors. Starting with a brief study of relevant topics from modern physics, the course covers neutron interactions with matter, fission, neutron diffusion, neutron moderation, and the criticality of various reactor types. This course is essential for the nuclear engineer and is an excellent choice for the applied scientist. |
| NE350 | NUCLEAR REACTOR DESIGN | 3 | This course focuses on nuclear reactor systems, the release of nuclear energy in the reactor core, and its removal as heat for producing electric power. Specific topics emphasize kinetics, heat transfer within the reactor, and control and design of the reactor core. A design project applies the concepts presented in this course to the solution of practical problems. |
| NE450 | NUCLEAR SYSTEMS DESIGN | 3 | This course focuses on the design of a nuclear weapon device, and the effects of a nuclear weapon detonation. Specific topics emphasize radiation interactions with matter, biological effects of radiation, and the effects of nuclear detonations. A design project applies the concepts presented in both NE350 and NE450 to the solution of practical problems. |
| NE452 | INSTRUMENTATION AND SHIELDING | 3.5 | This course focuses on nuclear instrumentation and radiation detectors, and on biological and material radiation protection through shielding. Specific topics include a study of radiation, and radiation detection devices to include: ionization chambers, proportional counters, Geiger-Mueller counters, scintillation detectors, semiconductor diode detectors, germanium and sodium iodide gamma-ray detectors, and neutron detectors. Radiation shielding, as a force protection measure, includes the design, analysis, and confirmation of radiation shields using point kernel and removal diffusion methods. Emphasis is placed on practical application of the radiation detection instruments and the associated acquisition software. |
| NE489 | ADV IND STDY NUCLEAR ENGNRG | 3 | This course is an individually supervised research and study program to familiarize students with advanced nuclear or radiological engineering procedures and techniques. The primary purpose is to acquaint students with the essential features of independent research in nuclear or radiological engineering. With the approval of the Head of the Department, the cadet chooses a research project currently in progress in the Department and is supervised by a faculty member conducting the research. |
| NE495 | ADV NUC SYSTEM DESIGN PROJ I | 3.5 | This is the first course in a two-semester capstone design experience. The course provides experience in the integration of math, science, and engineering principles into a comprehensive nuclear system design project. The design project emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to total system design providing multiple paths to a number of feasible and acceptable solutions which meet the stated performance requirements. Design teams are required to develop product specifications, generate alternatives, make practical engineering approximations, and perform appropriate analysis to support the technical feasibility of the design, make decisions leading to an optimal system design, and brief their interim results during in-process reviews (IPRs). Topics such as engineering economics and the Code of Federal Regulations are introduced. Computational codes such as MCNP and other nuclear industry codes specific to the project will be introduced. |
| PE100 | PHYS ED FOUNDATIONS-MEN | 3 | |
| PE107 | FOUNDATIONS OF MOVEMENT | 0.5 | This introductory movement and fitness course is designed to improve a cadet's upper body strength, hip flexor strength, and core body stabilization and to prepare him or her for success in PE 117 (Military Movement). The class focuses on developing the specific strength and skills needed to pass PE 117 (Military Movement) and the Indoor Obstacle Course Test. |
| PE109 | FUNDAMENTALS OF AQUATICS | 0.5 | This course has two phases: phase one is a remedial swimming exploration curriculum designed to prepare cadets classified as non-swimmers for the survival swimming curriculum. The remedial phase is designed to help cadets acquire in-water experiences, and gradually refine the basic motor skills needed to be comfortable, safe, and effective in and around the aquatic environment. Phase two emphasizes the military applications of swimming and survival skills to include the elements of breath control, buoyancy positions, stroke assessment, and swimming endurance. Successful completion fulfills the survival swimming graduation requirement for selected cadets. |
| PE110 | SURVIVAL SWIMMING - ELEMENTARY | 0.5 | The Survival Swimming-Elementary course is designed to develop aquatic proficiency for cadets who swam 150 yards in 4 minutes or more on their initial entry swim classification test. The Program of Instruction (POI) is divided into two areas: basic swimming and combat/survival swimming. Emphasis in all levels is on the military applications of swimming and survival skills to include the elements of breath control, buoyancy positions, stroke assessment, and swimming endurance. Grading is primarily based on criterion-referenced scales in basic and survival swimming skills. |
| PE115 | FUNDAMENTALS OF COMBATIVES | 0.5 | An entry level course that will introduce and develop stand-up combatives skills for a female soldier. Appropriate responses to aggression will be taught through a graduated approach. Cadets will learn to strike and kick with power and to close with the enemy. Realistic techniques on the ground will be covered focusing on wartime needs. Body mechanics and aggressiveness will be stressed as the female soldier is likely to be outweighed by their enemy. |
| PE116 | BOXING | 0.5 | A course in which the offensive and defensive skills of amateur boxing are taught. Course content includes stances, movement, basic punches (i.e. jab, cross, hook, and upper cut), defenses, strategies, and tactics. Instruction on refereeing, judging, and serving as a corner second are presented. Boxers are evaluated, assessed and provided feedback on their ability to box. The course exposes participants to the coping strategies necessary to deal with a physical threat. |
| PE117 | MILITARY MOVEMENT | 0.5 | This is a 19-lesson course designed to expose cadets to a variety of basic movement skills. The course serves as a basis for many other athletic and military activities that cadets will encounter during their time at USMA as well as in their Army career. Focus is placed on applied movement tasks for all cadets. This course takes a basic Movement Theme approach, meaning cadets are required to learn a variety of relevant skills from within the general themes of rolling, hanging, climbing, crawling, jumping, vaulting, landing, mounting, supporting and swinging. In addition, the environment (or apparatus) where a skill is performed is changed or modified to challenge the cadet and broaden the movement experience. Movement environments are designed around specific events such as tumbling, vaulting, vertical ropes, horizontal ropes, the indoor obstacle course (IOCT), horizontal bars, elephant vault, ankles to the bar (ATB), chin-ups, rings, and trampoline. |
| PE150 | FUNDAMENTALS/PERSONAL FITNESS | 1.5 | The purpose of this course is to introduce cadets to the concepts and principles of personal fitness and to help them gain an understanding of the importance of personal fitness to their success as an Officer and Soldier. Cadets will participate in a series of personal assessments designed to establish a performance baseline. They will learn to apply the principles of physical fitness to develop a training program that will optimize physical performance. Cadets will develop a sense of self-responsibility and commit to the development and maintenance of their personal fitness. |
| PE311 | FITNESS LEADER II | 1.5 | The purpose of this course is to provide cadets with the knowledge and skills required to develop an effective personal and unit fitness program. Cadets will demonstrate the ability to apply the principles of personal fitness training concepts in the development of a unit fitness assessment and training program. |
| PE320 | SURVIVAL SWIMMING - ELEMENTARY | 0.5 | The Survival Swimming-Elementary course is designed to develop aquatic proficiency for cadets who swam 150 yards in 4 minutes or more on their initial entry swim classification test. The Program of Instruction (POI) is divided into two areas: basic swimming and combat/survival swimming. Emphasis in all levels is on the military applications of swimming and survival skills to include the elements of breath control, buoyancy positions, stroke assessment, and swimming endurance. Grading is primarily based on criterion-referenced scales in basic and survival swimming skills. |
| PE321 | SURVIVAL SWIMMING - LOW | 0.5 | The Survival Swimming-Low Intermediate course is designed to develop aquatic proficiency for cadets who swam 150 yards between 3 minutes 16 seconds and 3 minutes 59 seconds on their initial entry swim classification test. The Program of Instruction (POI) is divided into two areas: basic swimming and combat/survival swimming. Emphasis in all levels is on the military applications of swimming and survival skills to include the elements of breath control, buoyancy positions, stroke assessment, and swimming endurance. Grading is primarily based on criterion-referenced scales in basic and survival swimming skills. |
| PE322 | SURVIVAL SWIMMING - HIGH | 0.5 | The Survival Swimming-High Intermediate course is designed to develop aquatic proficiency for cadets who swam 150 yards between 2 minutes 30 seconds and 3 minute 15 seconds on their initial entry swim classification test. The Program of Instruction (POI) is divided into two areas: basic swimming and combat/survival swimming. Emphasis in all levels is on the military applications of swimming and survival skills to include the elements of breath control, buoyancy positions, stroke assessment, and swimming endurance. Grading is primarily based on criterion-referenced scales in basic and survival swimming skills. |
| PE323 | SURVIVAL SWIMMING - ADVANCED | 0.5 | The Survival Swimming-Advanced course is designed to develop aquatic proficiency for cadets who swam 150 yards in less than 2 minutes 30 seconds on their initial entry swim test. The Program of Instruction (POI) is divided into two areas: basic swimming and combat/survival swimming. Emphasis in all levels is on the military applications of swimming and survival skills to include the elements of breath control, buoyancy positions, stroke assessment, and swimming endurance. Grading is primarily based on criterion-referenced scales in basic and survival swimming skills. |
| PE350 | ARMY FITNESS DEVELOPMENT | 1.5 | This course prepares future company grade officers for their roles as fitness leaders by equipping them with the knowledge to plan, implement, and assess unit physical training in a variety of conditions and by giving them opportunities to apply this knowledge. |
| PE412 | ADVANCED CLOSE QUARTERS COMBAT | 0.5 | This course introduces the use of weapons in close quarters combat and fosters the development of a combat survival-oriented mind set course content includes: advanced striking, kicking, joint locking, and choking techniques; basic knife and stick fighting techniques; unarmed defense against knives, clubs, or handguns; sentry takeout techniques, and police search procedures. Grading is based on the cadet's performance in a variety of simulated combative scenarios. |
| PE413 | CBT INSTR CERT COURSE -LEVEL I | 0.5 | PE 413 is designed to certify cadets to teach U.S. Army Level I Combative Skills. Cadets develop a foundation of basic combative grappling skills and an aggressive mind set needed to engage and defeat an enemy in Close Quarters Combat (CQC). The course focuses on 15 basic grappling skills. Cadets are evaluated on their demonstration and knowledge of the required skills. Successful completion of the course qualifies the individual to conduct Skill Level I Combatives training for soldiers. |
| PE414 | AEROBIC FITNESS | 0.5 | The Aerobic Fitness course (PE414) provides cadets with information and experience to create and conduct physical training in numerous fitness activities including those listed as alternate APFT events in FM 21-20. Cadets will participate in a variety of activities including running, cycling, swimming and mountain biking. The principles of exercise physiology taught in PE 311 Fitness Leader II, are applied throughout the course as students design and participate in various aerobic conditioning assessment activities. Multiple activities will be combined into one event in order to introduce cadets to multi-sport training and competition. Successful completion of the course results in registration with USA Triathlon as a "Registered Triathlon Leader" in preparation for certification as a Level 1 coach. Grading for the course is based upon performance, participation, a written logbook and a final examination. |
| PE416 | BASKETBALL | 0.5 | This course is designed to provide cadets with the skills and knowledge necessary for playing, coaching, and officiating basketball. It is intended to assist students in developing fundamental skills for playing as well as nurturing an appreciation for basketball as a lifetime sport. A variety of offensive and defensive team strategies are taught. In addition, the leadership skills of coaching and officiating basketball will be learned. Grading for the course is based upon an officiating practical exercise, demonstrated individual skills, performance on the James Naismith Basketball Obstacle Course, instructor's assessment of each cadet's game performance and a written term end exam. |
| PE418 | CYCLING | 0.5 | This course is designed to take the novice road cyclist and mountain biker through a progressive program of training and instruction. The course introduces students to basic riding skills as well as bike maintenance. The grading in this course includes daily participation, demonstration of basic riding skills in a road bike technique course and mountain bike challenge and two maintenance skills tests. |
| PE420 | EMERGENCY WATER SAFETY | 0.5 | The purpose of this course is to introduce cadets who are already proficient swimmers, to first responder training in methodologies generic to Water Rescue, CPR, and Emergency First Aid. Cadets are exposed to a variety of distress and drowning scenarios, and will be able to demonstrate strategies and site specific response techniques essential to safely performing a water related assist and/or rescue. Course focus is on military application in both still water and theatre specific environments, with a special emphasis on emergency management protocol. Written evaluation, five skill-specific performance components, and successful completion of two comprehensive exit scenarios are required for successful course completion. |
| PE421 | LIFEGUARD TRAINING | 0.5 | This course focuses on a holistic approach to the duties and responsibilities of a trained professional lifeguard and exposes cadets to key elements and strategies related to accident prevention, surveillance methodology, and performance. Additional content and activities focus on emergency response, search and rescue, and duty specific incident/accident management. Cadets who successfully complete certification requirements may obtain professional accreditation/licensure in Lifeguarding, CPR/PR, Oxygen Administration, and Automated External Defibrillation (AED). Additional accreditation/licensure may also be available in both Open Water and Water park Lifeguarding. Written evaluation, four skill-specific performance evaluations, and successful completion of three comprehensive exit scenarios are required for successful course completion. |
| PE422 | AEROBIC EXERCISE TO MUSIC | 0.5 | Using music as the controlling factor, this course will give participants an opportunity to experience different modalities of exercise such as high/low impact, step, kickboxing, circuit training, spinning and water exercise in a group exercise setting. Participants will be assessed on knowledge of applicable fitness principles, exercise safety, and lesson construction. |
| PE424 | GOLF | 0.5 | This course is designed to provide the beginner and novice golfer with the skills, knowledge, and techniques needed to play golf. The basic techniques taught are the full swing, pitching, chipping, and putting. Course grading is based upon a series of skill tests, a written examination, and a golf swing analysis. |
| PE426 | ICE SKATING | 0.5 | This course is designed to provide cadets with little or no previous skating experience with the basic skills necessary to safely participate as a recreational ice-skater. The forward and backward stroke, snow plow, "T" stop, hockey stop, and forward and backward crossovers are presented. Grading is based upon the cadet's ability to demonstrate the skills taught during the course. A compulsory skating routine is used for evaluating student proficiency in skills taught during the course. Additionally, a short routine of optional figures chosen by the cadet is evaluated. |
| PE429 | RACQUETBALL | 0.5 | This course introduces the basic skill and strategy fundamentals of racquetball. Cadets learn to identify and demonstrate the basic fundamentals of: personal playing safety; rules of play; forehand and backhand stroke techniques; kill, passing, and defensive shots; serve return techniques and strategies; and backhand skills. Grading is determined by performance on four skills tests, a written test, tournament play, and an instructor evaluation of the cadet's playing skills. |
| PE430 | ROCK CLIMBING | 0.5 | This course develops fundamental rock climbing skills, techniques and safety awareness. This course introduces basic rock climbing systems, rappelling, belaying, knots, top roping, and assorted climbing skills. Course grading is based on climbing skills, rappelling skills, knowledge of basic rock climbing systems, and the application of judgment and safety practices in various situations. |
| PE432 | SCUBA | 0.5 | This course is designed to provide cadets with the basic skills and knowledge needed to safely participate in SCUBA diving and pursue certification as a National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) Basic SCUBA Diver. Successful completion of this course leads to Confined Water Certification and the ability to enroll in Open Water training. The requirements of this course include the successful demonstration of skin and SCUBA diving skills, the ability to practice and adhere to safe diving activities, and the completion of a comprehensive, written final examination. |
| PE438 | SOCCER | 0.5 | This course is designed to provide cadets with the skills and knowledge necessary for playing, coaching, and officiating soccer. A variety of individual skills techniques are taught, as well as team offensive and defensive strategies. Grading for the course is based upon a written examination, evaluation of skills techniques, and tournament play. |
| PE440 | SPORT PHYSIOLOGY | 0.5 | The objectives of this course are to introduce cadets to applied concepts of Sports Physiology, conduct personal fitness assessments in DPE's Center for Physical Development Excellence facility, and perhaps complete an independent study examining a sports physiology issue. The cadet becomes familiar with the varied aspects of Sports Physiology and is able to demonstrate baseline and advanced knowledge of 'core principles.' Critical thinking and analysis is used in all endeavors. The personal assessments conducted in the lab and the independent study approach provides cadets with insightful physiological information that can enhance their personal fitness performance. |
| PE442 | STRENGTH DEVELOPMENT | 0.5 | This course provides cadets with the knowledge and hands-on experience for conducting a variety of resistance training exercises. Cadets develop the critical skills needed for teaching safe and proper resistance training techniques that will benefit both them and their soldiers. Cadets are assessed in the following areas: demonstrated proficiency performing multi-joint strength exercises; Olympic exercises and plyometrics. This course is designed to instill a lifetime desire for continued participation in a resistance-type training programs. |
| PE444 | TENNIS | 0.5 | This course is designed to develop basic tennis skills including the forehand and backhand groundstrokes, serve, and volley. Students also learn the basic rules and etiquette of tennis as well as simple singles and doubles strategies. Grading is based on skills tests, an in-class singles and doubles tournament, an observation of a Corps Squad match, and a written final examination. An optional trip section is offered in the fall to the US Open Tennis Championships in Flushing, NY. |
| PE446 | VOLLEYBALL | 0.5 | This course is designed to teach cadets the fundamentals of volleyball. The individual skills taught are the underhand pass, set, serve, block, and spike. Additionally, the course covers defensive and offensive formations, the transition game, officiating techniques and United States Volleyball Association (USVA) rules. Grading is based upon skill testing on the underhand pass, set and serve, a written test, and a round robin tournament. |
| PE451 | CURRENT LIFETIME SPORTS | 0.5 | The lifetime sports skills series are credit courses intended to provide cadets an opportunity to learn additional sports skills which can be incorporated into lifetime fitness goals and activities. They will further the development of neuromuscular and kinesthetic abilities through the acquisition of and participation in sport skills and can be part of the cadet personal fitness programs. Specific lifetime sport activities are selected on the basis of current trends, resources, instructor expertise, and cadet needs. |
| PE460 | COMBAT APPLICATIONS | 0.5 | This course culminates the cadets' required physical program course experiences with the direct application of both the physical skills and warrior ethos required of leaders in combat. Upon successful completion of the course, each cadet will be better equipped to move, fight, and win both individually and as a member of a team in any environment and/or situation. |
| PH201 | PHYSICS I | 3.5 | This is the first course of a two-semester, calculus-based physics sequence. This course consists of an introduction to nuclear physics and a comprehensive study of classical mechanics, which is designed to promote scientific literacy and to develop the use of scientific modes of thought to solve complex problems. Topics include a survey of nuclear physics and a detailed study of the laws of motion, conservation of energy, and conservation of momentum. An integrated laboratory program illustrates basic scientific techniques and serves to stimulate intellectual curiosity. The core physics program is designed to demonstrate the relevance of physics to military technology and to help prepare future Army leaders to anticipate and adapt to technological change. |
| PH202 | PHYSICS II | 3.5 | This is the second course of a two-semester, calculus-based physics sequence. It consists of a comprehensive study of electromagnetism and optics designed to promote scientific literacy and to develop the use of scientific modes of thought to solve complex problems. Topics include a detailed study of electrostatics, magnetism, circuits, geometric optics, and wave optics. An integrated laboratory program illustrates basic scientific techniques and serves to stimulate intellectual curiosity. The core physics program is designed to demonstrate the relevance of physics to military technology and to help prepare future Army leaders to anticipate and adapt to technological change. |
| PH251 | ADVANCED PHYSICS I | 3.5 | This is the first course of a two-semester, calculus-based advanced physics sequence for selected cadets with demonstrated strengths in mathematics and science. This course consists of an introduction to nuclear physics and a comprehensive study of classical mechanics, which is designed to promote scientific literacy and to develop the use of scientific modes of thought to solve complex problems. Topics include a survey of nuclear physics and a detailed study of the laws of motion, conservation of energy, and conservation of momentum. An integrated laboratory program illustrates basic scientific techniques and serves to stimulate intellectual curiosity. The core physics program is designed to demonstrate the relevance of physics to military technology and to help prepare future Army leaders to anticipate and adapt to technological change. |
| PH361 | EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICS | 3.5 | This course provides instruction and experimental experiences designed to exercise the student's knowledge of classical and modern physics and to extend his or her familiarity with equipment and techniques used in a physical science laboratory. Cadets, working in groups, execute and report on experimental projects. The program of instruction includes familiarization with electronics and instrumentation, data analysis, and laboratory procedures and practices. Knowledge and skills acquired in this course are essential for subsequent laboratory work in solid state physics, nuclear physics, and optics. |
| PH363 | MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS | 3 | This course introduces the physics major to the methods and foundations of mathematical physics. Topics covered include ordinary differential equations, Sturm-Liouville theory, orthogonal functions, the partial differential equations of classical and quantum physics, and integral transforms. Mathematical methods are taught in the context of physical modeling. |
| PH365 | MODERN PHYSICS | 3 | This course introduces special relativity and the fundamental concepts of quantum physics with application to atomic physics and nuclear physics in order to prepare cadets for advanced study of science and engineering, especially quantum mechanics, statistical physics, nuclear physics, solid state physics, laser physics, medical radiation physics, and nuclear engineering. This course will also be of interest to any cadet who wishes to gain a deeper appreciation of the natural world or of the technology of the 21st Century. |
| PH382 | INTERMEDIATE ELECTRODYNAMICS | 3 | This course continues the study of classical electrodynamics introduced in the introductory physics sequence by developing the differential forms of the Maxwell equations and applying them to boundary value problems in two and three dimensions. In addition, scalar and vector potentials are introduced, multipole field expansions are developed for complex sources, electromagnetic fields in dielectric and magnetic media are studied, the propagation of electromagnetic waves in conducting and nonconducting media is considered and electromagnetic radiation is introduced. The course concludes with the study of the connection between special relativity and electrodynamics. This course provides an essential foundation for courses in optics, lasers, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and solid state physics. |
| PH477 | LASERS AND OPTICS | 3.5 | This course provides intermediate development in the concepts of geometric, wave, and quantum optics and their application to laser systems. Primary coverage includes common optical devices, light transmission through optical media, diffraction, interference and polarization. This course then provides a combined theoretical and experimental investigation into the realm of coherent optical radiation generation, amplification, propagation, and application. Cadets apply the basic principles of electromagnetism, optics, and modern physics to analyze specific laser systems, and experiments are performed to demonstrate properties of specific optical and laser systems. The theory of laser gain and amplification is investigated using semiclassical methods. |
| PH482 | ADVANCED CLASSICAL MECHAN | 3 | This course continues the development of concepts introduced in PH381. Hamiltonian mechanics are explored using the calculus of variations to provide a foundation for connecting classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics. The two-body central force problem, the mechanics of rotating systems, and scattering theory are studied in depth. The mathematical techniques associated with cylindrical, spherical, and curvilinear coordinates are introduced, as are the basic principles of nonlinear dynamics and chaos are introduced. Cadets will be required to develop and demonstrate the ability to use a computer algebra system to solve advanced problems and plot the solutions. |
| PH489 | ADV INDIV STUDY IN PHYSICS | 3 | This course is an individually supervised research and study program to familiarize students with advanced scientific procedures and techniques. The primary purpose is to acquaint students with the essential features of independent research in physics. With the approval of the Head of the Department, the cadet chooses a research project currently in progress in the Department, and is supervised by a faculty member conducting the research. |
| PL100 | GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 | This course develops the ability to apply current psychological principles. Psychology is a broad and expanding discipline and the introductory course is necessarily a survey. The focus of the course is the development of an awareness and understanding of one's own behavior and the behavior of others. Emphasis is placed on applying the behavioral principles learned to the cadets' current lives and their functioning as future officers. |
| PL150 | ADVANCED GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 | This course is an advanced multidisciplinary study of human behavior and leadership that focuses current psychological principles to the study and understanding of human thoughts, emotions and behaviors. The focus of the course is the enrichment of an awareness and understanding of one's own behavior and the behavior of others. Emphasis is placed on applying the behavioral principles learned to real-world issues and their impacts on functioning as future Army officers. |
| PL300 | MILITARY LEADERSHIP | 3 | This course is a multidisciplinary study of leadership in an organizational context which focuses on the integration of theory and practice. The cadet studies the leader's direct influence on individual motivation and group processes through the application of leadership theories, skills, and attributes. The cadet also learns how to influence subordinates indirectly through organizational systems and procedures, organizational culture, and ethical climate. Cadets apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to their experiences as cadet leaders in the Corps of Cadets. In addition, the course helps each cadet develop usable leadership products in the form of a reflective leadership notebook, which helps the cadet define and inform his or her own personal approach to leading. The cadet will also develop a detailed and theoretically sound leadership philosophy, as well as comprehensive leader plans which have direct application to their roles as leaders in the Corps of Cadets and as future Army officers. |
| PL350 | ADVANCED MILITARY LEADERSHIP | 3 | This course is an advanced multidisciplinary study of leadership in an organizational context that focuses on the integration of theory and practice. The cadet studies the leader's direct influence on individual motivation and group processes through the application of leadership theories, skills, and attributes. The cadet also learns how to influence subordinates indirectly through organizational systems and procedures, organizational culture, and ethical climate. Cadets apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to their experiences as cadet leaders in the Corps of Cadets. The cadet will also develop a detailed and theoretically sound leadership philosophy, which will have direct application to their roles as leaders in the Corps of Cadets and as future Army officers. |
| PL361 | RESEARCH METHODS I | 3 | This course provides cadets with detailed practical knowledge and skills in the scientific analysis of human behavior. The course content begins with a review of the terms and philosophy of the scientific method as well as basic research concepts. Several research designs, primarily non-experimental methods, provide cadets with a better understanding of research techniques and how they affect the results of a study. Basic methods of data analysis, to include descriptive and inferential statistics, will be covered. Groups of cadets will conduct research projects on a topic of their choice using naturalistic observation. |
| PL371 | INTRODUCTORY SOCIOLOGY | 3 | Sociology is the scientific study of society and the interactions among humans. The goal of Introductory Sociology is to provide a survey of the field of sociology and educate and inspire cadets to examine contemporary situations that involve social interaction and use sociological concepts, theories, and research to explain what is taking place, identify social threads and patterns across the situations, and determine the personal as well as the social significance of their analysis. Sociology demands that the student transcend the taken-for-granted, subjective world view and develop a sociological imagination by revealing the linkages and relationships among social facts and connect public issues to self awareness. PL371 is a survey course with the identification of common threads across social situations, and determining the self and social significance of facts. The teaching and learning strategy involves reading, writing, discussions, presentations, and other active-learning, hands and heads-on projects. |
| PL373 | LIFE CYCLE & HUMAN DEVEL | 3 | This course focuses on individual development and the forces that influence our development from birth to old age. Cadets will study the various facts, theories, issues, and topics that constitute the field of human development. Cadets will explore human development from various theoretical perspectives. In addition, cadets will discuss such topics as cognitive and moral development, how our self-concept and sense of identity form, and the influence of family and the world around us on development. Special attention will be given to the developmental impact of college. |
| PL376 | PERSONALITY & AB PSYCH | 3 | Building upon the elementary concepts of personality from PL100, this course examines in detail various theoretical frameworks used to study personality and abnormal behavior. The course focuses on four theoretical perspectives: the psychoanalytic, learning, phenomenological, and dispositional perspectives. After examining how the various theoretical perspectives can be used to explain personality, the course applies these perspectives to an understanding of abnormal behavior. Thus, the course focuses on developing the cadets' understanding of "normal" personality development and how and why deviant behavior may result. |
| PL377 | SOCIAL INEQUALITY | 3 | Cadets are introduced to several theoretical perspectives intended to explain the structure of social stratification in the United States. The course examines the state of social inequality in the United States, with a focus on social class, integration, mobility, and equality of opportunity. Cadets explore individual and structural perspectives of social inequality. Cadets evaluate social issues, policies, and programs intended to influence social inequality. Throughout the course, cadets discuss the relevance of class, race, ethnicity, and gender on social opportunity and inequality. |
| PL379 | GROUP DYNAMICS | 3 | This course is designed to improve cadets’ understanding of human behavior in small group settings. Course content includes structural characteristics of groups such as size, status, roles and norms in addition to the effects of task and environment. Cadets then use their understanding of these constructs to analyze group phenomena such as cohesion, performance, decision making, problem solving and conflict resolution. We also devote a number of lessons to current issues in group dynamics such as electronic and virtual groups, high performance work teams and shared leadership in a team environment. The course is particularly relevant to professional development in that cadets gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of small group and team interaction. This allows them to develop and implement creative leader actions that will maximize group effectiveness. |
| PL383 | EXPERIMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 | This course surveys the field of contemporary social psychology. Cadets examine the impact of social structure and group membership on social behavior, while focusing on intrapsychic processes such as attribution, cognition, and learning that underlie social behavior. The course is intended to enable cadets to more effectively analyze and explain human behavior in a given situation. Specific topics include the self, attitudes and attitude change, sex and gender, conformity, obedience, compliance, deviance, helping behavior, aggression, attraction and romance, groups and intergroup relations, and collective behavior. The classroom experience is heavily discussion-oriented in order to maximize the application of social psychological concepts, theories, and perspectives to daily life. |
| PL386 | EXPERIMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 | This course provides cadets with detailed practical knowledge and skills in the experimental analysis of behavior and human performance. Particular emphasis is placed on design of laboratory and field experiments, laboratory automation and instrumented data acquisition, computer data analysis, and on the distinction between laboratory research, field test and evaluation. The course includes practical exercises in several content areas of experimental and engineering psychology. These topics are evaluated by laboratory reports. |
| PL387 | FOUNDATIONS OF COUNSELING | 3 | This course introduces cadets to the fundamentals of counseling. It focuses on the practical applications of counseling theories, principles, and techniques. Using the vehicles of videotaping and audiotaping, the course emphasizes personal, performance, career, and disciplinary counseling to help prepare cadets for leadership roles both as a cadet and an officer. The course covers the counseling process and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships within that process. Counseling skills include: basic and advanced communication skills, goal setting, intervention strategies, assertiveness, crisis intervention, and multiculturalism. Examinations are behavioral and written. |
| PL390 | BIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 | This course introduces the cadet to the physiological and anatomical structures and processes that underlie human behavior with emphasis on human performance. The course examines the structure of the nervous and endocrine systems, the mechanisms of seeing and hearing, movement, stress and arousal, learning, memory, biological causes of abnormal behavior, sleep, language, and the effects on performance of damage to neural structures. Cadets are introduced to the scientific examination of real-world bio-psychological problems in laboratory assignments in examining tissue, brains and eyes to provide three-dimensional realism to classroom instruction. This course provides the basis for competence in later engineering psychology electives. Biological Psychology is the "hardware" introduction to engineering psychology. |
| PL393 | CRIMINOLOGY-CRIM JUST SYSTM | 3 | Criminology is the scientific study of the making of laws, the breaking of laws, and the reaction to the breaking of laws. When a crime appears to have been committed and authorities have been notified, the criminal justice system is set in motion. The criminal justice system is the societal response to crime and includes three major activities – law enforcement, the judicial process, and corrections. The course provides an overview of (a) the theories offered to explain crime and delinquent behavior (b) the criminal justice system which responds to those behaviors, and (c) the relationships between the varied explanations of criminal behavior and society’s criminal justice responses to those behaviors. The focus of the course is primarily on the United States, but there is some attention devoted to an international view of crime and criminal justice. |
| PL470 | TOPICS-BEHAVIOR SCI/LDRSHIP | 3 | This course explores an advanced topic in Behavioral Sciences and Leadership. Specific subject matter will vary with the expertise of the senior faculty member conducting the course. |
| PL471 | LEADERSHIP IN COMBAT | 3 | PL 471 examines leadership in combat at the tactical level from an interdisciplinary perspective. It first seeks to provide a theoretical foundation for understanding human dimensions of combat, and then explores some of the factors that influence the leadership of soldiers in combat through a collection of readings, film, and first-hand discussions with combat veterans. Cadets examine four case studies and conduct a comparative analysis of two combat leaders. |
| PL472 | CROSS-CULTURAL ORG'L BEHAVIOR | 3 | This course examines the individual, group and organizational level influences on human behavior in organizations. Cadets will gain an understanding of these influences and use the insights gained to formulate leader actions to effectively motivate and lead individuals and teams. The course emphasizes the practical application of organizational behavior theories and research findings to everyday situations cadets encounter as well as to those they will encounter in the field Army. Course content includes and overview of research methods in the behavioral sciences, foundations of individual behavior, diversity, international organizational behavior, motivation, decision making, feedback and rewards and power and influence. We will also examine organizational influences on ethical behavior with an emphasis on creating ethical climates in the organizations we belong to. |
| PL475 | HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION | 3 | Computer use in the world today is at an all-time high. Consequently, the need for user-friendly computers is crucial. Somewhat ironically, human capacity for memory has often been explained using the computer metaphor, while the computer designer often attempts to instill human-like qualities into their computer designs. This course focuses on the interface between the human and computer. Initial focus is placed on understanding the theoretical foundations of human processes. The course then examines how these processes interact with computer usage. Students will learn design principles that enhance compatibility with computer systems. |
| PL476 | EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 | In this course, cadets will develop their instructional skills and formulate a conceptual basis for their instructional practices as army officers. The course is oriented toward the study of psychological theories of learning and application of these theories to the design, delivery, and evaluation of adult education and training. The course is subdivided into major areas of study. Learning theory focuses on the study of the learning process with balanced treatment given to behavioristic and cognitive perspectives. Instructional design emphasizes a systems approach to planning and decision making in learning situations. |
| PL479 | LEADING ORGNZS THRU CHANGE | 3 | The environments in which organizations operate is characterized by unprecedented change fueled by rapidly emerging technologies, information overload, changing values, lifestyles and attitudes, and social and civil problems of great magnitude. Effective leaders either to be proactive toward change or be its captive. The purpose of this course is to examine change from an organizational perspective through a complex and diverse mix of theories, concepts, and information. Course concepts are drawn from the disciplines of behavioral science, business, management, and military doctrine. Cadets have the opportunity to analyze the successes, the failures, and the multiple dilemmas of modern organizations in both the private and public sectors in order to better understand the causes, implications, and potential leader actions and strategies associated with organizational change. |
| PL485 | HUMAN FACTORS ENGINEERING | 3 | This course surveys the theories and methods of human factors engineering (ergonomics). Human factors engineering is concerned with the application of technology and the design of equipment for human use. This course emphasizes the cognitive dimension of human factors engineering. The focus is on understanding the capabilities and limitations of humans as they interact with equipment and facilities. This course lays the foundations for the systematic application of information about humans to the design of equipment and workspace environments. |
| PL497 | SEMINAR IN BEHAVIORAL SCI | 3 | Cadets develop individual research themes from contemporary behavioral science topics. They are then grouped under a seminar leader for study, discussion, and preparation of their research reports, culminating in a presentation before the seminar group. Cadets will be expected to master both the significant work within the topics of choice and the body of criticisms of the works and to propose a study to advance the body of knowledge. |
| PY201 | PHILOSOPHY | 3 | This course helps third class cadets develop their capacities to think clearly and critically. It acquaints cadets with various viewpoints on major philosophic issues, assists them in acquiring a facility with the language, arguments, and methods of moral discourse, and gives special attention to the subject of war and morality. |
| SE300 | INTRO TO SYSTEMS ENGINEERING | 3 | SE300 serves as the "roadmap" course for all cadets taking the three-course Systems Engineering sequence. This course presents the methodological framework and techniques for designing, implementing, managing and reengineering large-scale systems or processes. Cadets learn engineering design and engineering management processes and gain an appreciation for the future environments and systems life-cycles. Cadets analyze case studies and complete practice problems to illustrate mastery of course topics. Cadets also use spreadsheet software for modeling and analyzing design alternatives. Cadets will spend eight to twelve lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| SE301 | FNDTN ENGIN DSGN & SYS MGMT | 3 | SE301 serves as the "roadmap" course for all cadets taking the Engineering Management, Information Systems Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Systems Management majors. This course presents the methodological framework and techniques for designing, implementing, managing and reengineering complex systems or processes. Cadets learn engineering design and engineering management processes and gain an appreciation for future environments and system life-cycles. Cadets analyze case studies and complete practice problems to illustrate mastery of course topics. Cadets also use spreadsheet software for modeling and analyzing design alternatives. SE301 introduces a Systems Engineering Management Process while incorporating material from courses in the USMA core curriculum and also previews the modeling and decision making tools that cadets will learn in follow-on Department of Systems Engineering courses. The course is designed to allow cadets the opportunity to learn engineering design and engineering management processes on an individual level so that each cadet will have the experience necessary to succeed in future Systems Engineering courses. Cadets will spend eight to twelve lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| SE350 | SYSTEMS MODELING AND DESIGN | 3 | SE350 is the second foundation course of a three-course sequence for non-engineering cadets. It focuses on the application of deterministic and stochastic models to help cadets analyze and understand different alternatives. Cadets learn to apply various modeling techniques that represent and solve real-world problems in the military, government, and industry. SE350 utilizes traditional classroom setting and computer labs, applying the fundamental principles and assumptions of analytical models. Cadets practice uses of spreadsheets to develop and analyze models. A key goal is for cadets to communicate their analysis and recommendations to a decision maker. Ethical responsibilities in describing the results of analyses to decision-makers are integrated throughout the course. Cadets are expected to apply their knowledge of course material in several computer lab exercises throughout the course. |
| SE375 | STATISTICS FOR ENGINEERS | 3 | This course is an integral part of the Systems Engineering major that emphasizes both the statistical analyses of data and a statistical methodology important to systems analysis and design. The over-arching course goal is to develop cadets into critical consumers and providers of statistical information as it relates to the techniques, activities, and modeling applications that typify systems engineering concerns.. The course builds on the core probability and statistics course and introduces statistics applications fundamental to the design and analysis of simulations and engineering systems. Specific topics include point and interval estimation, parametric and non-parametric tests of hypotheses, analysis of variance, linear regression, and survey design of experiments, specifically analysis of power and determination of sample size. The course emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding the assumptions associated with the use of inferential statistics as well as the usefulness of statistical software packages. The basic principles learned in this course will facilitate data analysis in support of Army acquisition and system redesign decision-making. Ethical implications in the analysis and presentation of experimental results, as well as interactions with decision makers, are addressed. |
| SE382 | DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS | 3 | Cadets learn to build automated decision support systems. These systems integrate information, analytic models, and a user interface to support key decisions within an organization. The course combines theoretical study with practical application. Cadets experience advanced, automated decision aids through hands-on interaction with standalone and integrated, web-based applications. Topics include the Simon model of decision-making, DSS component design, DSS development strategies, implementation issues, and evaluation methods. Significant attention is directed toward organizational and ethical issues associated with introducing automated decision aids into workplace environments. Cadets are challenged to think and act creatively as they design, evaluate and test decision support systems in both commercial and military domains. Cadets will spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| SE387 | DETERMINISTIC MODELS | 3 | This course is the first of a two-course sequence that emphasizes modeling and analysis of real-world systems. This course focuses on modeling techniques without consideration of uncertainty or probabilistic effects. The course introduces the deterministic modeling process and many of the classical deterministic models used by systems engineers, operations researchers, and management professionals to identify and analyze alternatives as part of the Systems Design Process (SDP). Emphasis is placed on creative application of the modeling process to include formulation, solution methods, analysis of results, and interpretation. Topics include deterministic life cycle cost modeling, linear programming, sensitivity analysis, networks, transportation models, dynamic programming and integer programming. Cadets will spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| SE402 | SYSTEMS DESIGN I | 3.5 | Systems Design I is the first course in a two-semester capstone experience for Information Systems Engineering, Operations Research and Systems Engineering majors. SE402 integrates the principles, concepts and models explored in previous core and engineering topic courses. The course applies the principles of systems design, engineering management, and/or reengineering to a real-world system. Cadets work under the supervision of a faculty member to address a problem presented by a real-world client, providing them an integrative experience for their education in engineering design. |
| SE450 | APPLIED SYS DSGN/DECISN MAKING | 3 | This course is the third course of the three-course systems engineering sequence. The course serves as the culminating systems engineering experience for non-engineering cadets and integrates the principles, concepts, and models explored in previous courses. Cadets apply the Systems Decision Process to devise technological problem solutions that are effective and adaptable. Cadets work in groups to complete a culminating engineering design experience involving the solution of an incompletely defined problem with no single correct answer. Cadets must consider the economic, political, social and ethical constraints of the system and use creativity to generate potential design alternatives. Cadet groups will use models to analyze the alternative solutions and make a recommendation based on economic analysis and system performance. The course requires assessment of the recommended solution and a written plan for implementation. |
| SE481 | SYSTEMS SIMULATION | 3 | Cadets learn and explore discrete event simulation techniques and tools used to analyze and improve complex systems. Applications include operations, transportation, manufacturing and logistics systems. Topics include functional modeling with functional flow diagrams and IDEF0 models, simulation theory, the modeling process, input data analysis, generation and testing of random numbers, verification and validation of simulation models, experimental design, output analysis, and application using simulation software. The course concepts provide cadets the tools to evaluate military and civilian systems. Emphasis is placed on using simulation in the Systems Design Process (SDP). Cadets demonstrate proficiency and develop communication skills through design projects and briefings. Cadets spend several lessons in a computer lab environment. |
| SE482 | COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEMS | 3 | This teaches cadets the basic principles for the analysis, design, and use of command and control systems in tactical combat operations or government and industry. Cadets will learn the theory behind information age command and control concepts that are hypothesized to allow greater organizational agility and effectiveness. They will also learn the information systems engineering concepts that support collaboration, distribution of information, and a shared understanding of the battlespace. Given these concepts, cadets will focus on how to effectively define command and control system requirements, analyze their value, and integrate them into unit operations. Cadets will get hands-on experience with current and future systems used by Army forces. |
| SE485 | COMBAT MODELING | 3 | This course explores the theoretical and practical issues in combat modeling and simulation - the study of combat systems, tactics, and the battlefield environment in conflicts between opposing forces. The course focuses on models and algorithms used in state-of-the-art combat simulations, and techniques for analyzing their effects. Major topics of investigation include functional analysis to support modeling using functional flow diagrams and/or IDEF0 models, combat attrition models, search and detection methods, terrain representation, and measures of effectiveness. Cadets learn to manipulate 3D visual and system characteristic databases to build and test virtual prototypes of new combat system designs. Application of design of experiments and statistical analysis methods assist cadets in assessing the effectiveness of weapons systems, doctrine, and tactics on the future battlefield. The cadet can apply the concepts learned in this course to evaluate potential new Army combat systems, force structures, or doctrinal changes. The techniques taught in this course are a significant part of the Systems Design Process (SDP) as they encourage creative and independent thought that applies mathematical, physical, and computer sciences to solve future technological problems. Ethical implications in the development and use of combat models also are discussed. |
| SE489 | AD IND STY IN SYS ENG/ENG MGMT | 3 | This is a tutorial course in which an individual cadet or a group of cadets study in depth an advanced topic in systems engineering or engineering management under the direct mentorship of a faculty advisor. The scope of the course is tailored to the desires of the cadet(s) in consultation with a faculty advisor. Cadets will coordinate with a faculty mentor who has an interest and background in the research area and who will assist in scoping and developing course content. Communication skills are developed and assessed through both written reports and oral presentations. |
| SE491 | RSRCH PROJ IN SYS ENG/ENG MGMT | 3 | The cadet, or cadet team, integrates the concepts and techniques learned in previous Systems Engineering or Engineering Management courses to solve a current problem of interest to the Academy, the Department of the Army, or other agencies in the Department of Defense. Subject to approval from the course and program directors, cadets may select project topics which are follow-on research from their summer AIAD experience, a topic of interest to them, or one that is compatible with on-going research within the Department of Systems Engineering and/or the Operations Research Center of Excellence. Cadets will coordinate with a faculty mentor who has an interest and background in the research area and who will assist in scoping the project and directing the research effort. Cadets may work individually or in small teams, depending on the nature of the research. The course will culminate with a student presentation and a written report. |
| SS201 | ECONOMICS-PRINCPLES/PROBLEMS | 3.5 | This standard course presents the basic principles of economic analysis and their application to contemporary economic problems and supports the further study of economics and related disciplines in the social sciences. The course is organized into three general sections: microeconomics, outlining basic theory of allocation by supply and demand in a market economy and relating this theory to contemporary issues; macroeconomics, surveying the theory of aggregate economics and illustrating the application of macroeconomic theory to public policy in the American economy; and international economics, introducing trade theory and international monetary theory and policy and application of economics to selected public policy issues (taxation and resource allocations, provision of public goods, etc). Cadets examine the implications of economics on national security and defense, and the use of economic analysis to improve decisions they will make as Army officers. |
| SS202 | AMERICAN POLITICS | 3.5 | This course explores the American political system ý how it works, its strengths, its weaknesses, its conflicts, its controversies. The course emphasizes how our democracy makes decisions about politics & policy to balance the many competing values and demands of a free society. The course begins with the study of the constitutional foundations of American government and then examines political behavior, institutions of government, and the policy making process. The course integrates the study of civil-military relations and the broader study of political science as a discipline throughout the semester. |
| SS251 | ADVANCED ECONOMICS | 3.5 | This advanced version of SS201 presents the basic principles of economic analysis with a greater focus on their application to contemporary economic problems. The course is organized into three general sections: Microeconomics, outlining basic theory of allocation by supply and demand in a market economy and relating this theory to contemporary issues; Macroeconomics, surveying the theory of aggregate economics and illustrating the application of macroeconomic theory to public policy in the American economy; and International Economics, introducing trade theory and comparative advantage. Cadets examine and present their analysis of the implications of economics on national security, defense, as well as current policy issues as well as learning the use of economic analysis to improve decisions they will make as Army officers. |
| SS252 | ADVANCED AMERICAN POLITICS | 3.5 | This course provides selected students the opportunity to examine political power, political organization, and political action. The structure of the course is similar to that discussed in SS202 listed above. Students will learn how political scientists analyze the events and behaviors called "politics" using theoretical perspectives. Students will sharpen their critical thinking and writing skills through a research project, case studies, and class presentations. |
| SS307 | INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | 3.5 | The objectives of this course are to provide cadets with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of international politics and the analytical tools necessary to evaluate "why states do what they do." In accomplishing these objectives, SS307 builds upon a cadet's prior academic training in history, English and philosophy, economics, and political science. Emphasizing intellectual pluralism, SS307 focuses on the value of self-consciously applying different theoretical perspectives to international events to obtain improved understanding. Cadets examine key issues such as the consequences of anarchy, the need for security, the role of power, the use of force, international trade and markets, alternative political philosophies, foreign policy making, and the influence of culture in international affairs. |
| SS357 | ADV INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | 3.5 | This advanced version of SS307 presents cadets with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of international politics and the analytical tools necessary to evaluate “why states do what they do” with a more in-depth focus on their application to current international events. SS357 also introduces students to a wider range of theoretical approaches and applications. Emphasis is on rigorous, critical analysis, and classroom discussion. |
| SS360 | POLITICAL ANALYSIS | 3 | This course is an introduction to the methods and techniques of research in contemporary political science. It is designed to improve students’ ability to think critically about politics. This course differs from many other courses in its emphasis building critical thinking skills rather than mastering specific facts and theories. The most important of these skills are inference and causal reasoning. Rather than simply accepting “expert” answers to fundamental questions of political life, students will learn how to critically evaluate previous answers offered by others. Much of this course is devoted to practical exercises in which cadets put various research methods to work to answer important questions relevant to the field of political science. The course covers the philosophy of science, experimental method in the social sciences, quantitative analysis, and survey research. |
| SS366 | COMPARATIVE POLITICS | 3 | The objectives of this course are to analyze the sources of stability or instability in political regimes, and to examine the conditions that promote either democracy or dictatorship. Our first task is to describe different regimes--what do we mean when we call one democratic and another authoritarian? We approach this first task by building a regime model. As we do so we seek to understand what makes political regimes stable or unstable by analyzing their effectiveness, popular legitimacy, and institutional adaptability. All regimes are challenged by change, but some remain stable in the face of change, while others are transformed. Why? And is it possible to argue that there is a “best” type of regime? Are there universally valid criteria -- across time and space -- that we can use to compare regimes? Why do regimes succeed, fail, and change? As well as being central to the discipline of political science, these questions also play an important role in world politics and the formulation of US foreign policy. Since we are both students of political science and professionals who will serve as policy executors, the study of comparative politics offers significant rewards. After building the model we take it through various regions of the world, using the comparative method, analyzing the variables which change from regime to regime in liberal democracies, communist and post-communist states, newly industrializing and less developed countries, and the Islamic world. |
| SS370 | MASS MEDIA & AMER POLITICS | 3 | This seminar introduces cadets to what is perhaps the single most influential private institution in the American political system ý oftentimes referred to as the ýfourth branchý or ýfourth estateý of American government. The mass media, to include newspapers, television journalism, radio, the arts, and the internet, receive both theoretical and practical inquiry. In particular, the roles, motivations, and effects of the constitutionally protected media on American political institutions and policymaking are extensively probed. One third of the course is dedicated to the study of the relationship between the military and the media in order to develop meaningful policy prescriptions for future deployments and another third of the classes are dedicated to prominent guest speakers. Finally, the semester is topped off with a trip section to New York City to meet with the NYT, Fox News and MSNBC to round out the educational experience. |
| SS372 | POLITICS AND GOV OF CHINA | 3 | Lecture/seminar course designed to introduce the cadets to the politics and government of China. In particular, cadets will study the domestic politics of China beginning with the rise of the Chinese Communist movement. China's unique culture and the Mao years are examined as well as their impact on the past and emerging political system. Recent reforms and their implications for political, social, economic and military structures and processes will be examined as well as the tensions that have evolved. External developments such as Hong Kong's reversion to China, developments in Taiwan, changes in Central Asia, as well as China's emergence as a regional and world power will be considered. What are the different approaches to analyzing Chinese politics and government? What factors determine state legitimacy and influence internal choices? How does China's domestic situation influence its external relations? |
| SS373 | THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY | 3 | This course examines the role of the presidency in the American political system. It begins by analyzing the constitutional origins of the presidency and the evolution of presidential power. It then turns to the development of the modern presidency in the twentieth century, with particular attention to the administrations from Franklin D. Roosevelt to the present. The course also examines the presidential selection process, conflict and cooperation between the presidency and other national institutions, and executive performance in domestic and foreign policy. The course evaluates the development of the presidency as an institution through case studies of individual presidential power and leadership. |
| SS377 | POLITICS & GOV OF EUROPE | 3 | This course focuses on the political systems and cultures of the European Union (EU) and its Member States. First, the student is introduced to the EU, its historical development and institutional design. Implications of deepening European integration on international relations theory and state sovereignty are explored indepth. This block culminates with a study of Transatlantic security issues. Students will explore possibilities for cooperation or role competition between the military forces of the EU and NATO, with a focus on the influence of the US on the European continent. This theme continues to be highlighted throughout the remainder of the course. After this introductory block, students will get an overview of European state politics and look at several country case studies, both for current and aspiring member states of the EU, including a focus on democratization and the post-Communist legacy in Eastern Europe. Themes that run through each case study include how history affects political culture and institutional design within European states, and how these differing cultures and systems have been integrated into, or conflicted with, an increasingly centralized EU. Concepts learned in the course will be continuously applied to discussion of current challenges facing the EU and its Member States. |
| SS378 | ADV INTL RELATIONS THEORY | 3 | This course uses the foundation provided by SS307/357 to provide cadets with an in-depth assessment of the field of international relations. The course begins by evaluating alternative theoretical perspectives, including realism, liberalism/institutionalism, and constructivism. Cadets are introduced to classic as well as contemporary works, which are examined in terms of their cultural, political, and academic context. Cadets examine topical cases pertaining to war, wealth, and state formation/transformation. Throughout the course, cadets explore the value and limitations of IR theory in framing and implementing policy. |
| SS380 | MANPOWER-LABOR ECONOMICS | 3 | This course studies the nature and determinants of pay and employment. The course emphasizes the role of institutions which are significant in determining the pattern and speed of adjustment in the labor market. The traditional tools of micro and macroeconomics and econometrics are employed. Military manpower is examined as an application of the theories developed during the course. |
| SS381 | CULTURAL/POLIT ANTHROPOLOGY | 3 | The overall course goal is to provide a rich and interesting introduction to the field of anthropology. Anthropology is a holistic discipline encompassing elements of political science, economics, sociology, linguistics, and psychology. Emphasizing that one's culture is a "learned" condition, students explore the concept of cultural relativism and gain an appreciation for the diversity of human cultures and the interrelation of social, political and economic organizations. Students also examine the sub-discipline of Applied Anthropology which seeks to solve contemporary social/political problems such as ethnic conflict. A highlight of this course, students actively conduct anthropological fieldwork within the West Point community. Students develop their personal abilities to recognize their own personal biases and therefore better understand, interact and communicate with peoples from other cultural backgrounds. This is a crucial skill for future Army officers in the 21st century as recent deployment patterns have shown soldiers operating in non-traditional situations. |
| SS382 | MICROECONOMICS | 3 | This course is a theory course in which cadets develop a thorough understanding of microeconomic modeling and models; it is a prerequisite for most downstream economics courses. The course develops a methodology that economists use to study the interaction among individual economic agents (such as consumers, firms and the government) and the allocation of scarce resources among these agents. The goal is for cadets to understand optimization, markets, and to some extent policy-making, using an integrated, theoretical model. Ultimately the consequence of a change in the market environment, in public policy or in the global economy can be assessed vis-+-vis its impact on individual economic agents. |
| SS385 | COMPARATIVE ECONOMIC SYSTEMS | 3 | This course provides cadets with the tools and knowledge for analyzing the effectiveness of different economic systems and efforts to change them. The major course objectives include an examination of the following: the historical evolution of prominent economic philosophy and theory on the functioning of capitalist and non-capitalist systems; the methods of defining and evaluating economic systems in terms of the rules and the cultural, political, legal, financial, and labor institutions that comprise an economy; the methods of institutional and cultural change and the challenges they face in the transition from a command or traditional economy to a market economy; and the paths less developed countries may pursue towards economic development. At the end of the course students understand how differences among nations’ economic systems might result in differences in their economic outcomes and how nations might go about changing their systems. |
| SS386 | POLITICAL THOUGHT AND IDEAS | 3 | Students will read critically the original works of major political thinkers, with the goal of examining different perspectives on the principal questions of political thought. Among these are: "Is government based on the consent of the citizenry?", "What constitutes a just society?", "What is the purpose of government?", "Are freedom and equality reconcilable?" As a result of taking this course, the student will not only understand these central questions, but also be able to apply the theoretical prescriptions offered by thinkers to contemporary political issues currently debated throughout the world. |
| SS387 | ECONOMICS OF PUBLIC POLICY | 3 | This course adds depth to the cadet's understanding of the fundamentals of micro- and macroeconomics. In particular, the course examines practical and theoretical issues in social welfare, public expenditures, taxation, and public choice. The course develops understanding of the value of economic models in addressing complex policy questions that occur in a fluid political environment, sharpens analytic skills, and provides a bridge to the higher level theoretical models used in the study of the national political economy. |
| SS388 | MACROECON THEORY & PRACTICE | 3 | This course is dedicated to the study of aggregate economic activity. The course examines the determinants of long run growth, and then addresses short run economic fluctuations. The course uses various models, including the Solow Growth Model, the IS-lM model, and the Aggregate Demand - Aggregate Supply model. The microeconomic foundations for macroeconomics are discussed, and current macroeconomic policy issues are debated. These issues are discussed within the context of both open and closed economies. |
| SS394 | FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING | 3 | This course is an organizational leader's introduction to financial and managerial accounting, essential topics for students concentrating in engineering management, general management and economics. Cadets study the Accounting Cycle in detail, starting with analysis and recording of business transactions and culminating in the production of the financial statements of the corporation. Cadets also study basic principles of asset valuation, revenue and cost recognition, and analytical techniques for individual asset, liability, and capital accounts. The Managerial Accounting block is focused on cost-volume-profit analysis, Job-order Costing, and Activity Based Costing. The course culminates with a complete financial statement analysis comparison of three companies that enables cadets to apply the concepts of both financial and managerial accounting to modern corporations to answer the question: "Which company is well-managed today and best-positioned for success in the future?" |
| SS465 | TERRORISM: NEW CHALLENGES | 3 | The purpose of SS465, is to address the challenges of terrorism in the current and future global security environment through an interdisciplinary approach. Specifically, this course examines the unique challenge terrorism poses to liberal democratic states, policy makers and to military professionals. By analyzing the different perspectives of terrorism, given a variety of political and strategic contexts, students better understand terrorist motivations, strategies, means and ends. Finally, the course explores how a liberal democratic state can best fight terrorism in this new threat environment. |
| SS466 | ADVANCED TERRORISM STUDIES | 3 | The Advanced Terrorism Studies course represents a unique opportunity for students to conduct in-depth and integrated study on the most pressing past, present and future terrorist challenges to the United States and its interests. The objectives of this course are: (1) to synthesize and apply the cadet's studies across core, area, and elective course work to the thematic issue of terrorism; (2) to apply methodological skills of research design, conceptual reasoning, analysis, and research gained to terrorism; (3) to extend the cadet's in-depth study of the selected area of interest beyond the level obtained in course work with regards to terrorism; (4) to design and conduct focused research; and (5) to develop cadet skills in conceptual reasoning, critical analysis, and effective writing. |
| SS468 | POLITICAL PARTICIPATION | 3 | This course provides a broad understanding of the dynamics of political participation. The goals of this course are two-fold. First, it comprehensively examines both individual and group participation, as well as the many ways in which participation manifests itself in the democratic process, namely in the form of electoral (voting, campaigning) and non-electoral behavior (“civicness”, group action, etc). As such, this course will include topics in public opinion, the electoral process, and voting behavior. Second, the approach is both empirical - and theoretical. This course examines results of electoral behavior (primarily U.S. national and state elections), complemented with competing theoretical approaches which serve to explain and better understand this behavior. |
| SS469 | ECONOMETRICS II | 3 | This course is designed to teach students advanced concepts in estimation and statistical inference. Building upon the material covered in SS368, students will learn how to test for failure of the data to meet the assumptions of the basic regression model and how to allow for these departures from the standard assumptions during estimation. Among the topics covered will be Generalized Least Squares, Time Series, Instrumental Variables, and Simultaneous Equations estimation. Application of the techniques to the estimation of economic models using actual economic data is an integral part of the instruction. The course makes substantial use of statistical software packages. |
| SS470 | MONEY AND BANKING | 3 | SS470 is a senior level economics course whose primary purpose is to provide depth in the student's background and understanding of macroeconomics and international economics. The focus of the course is on the financial sector of the economy, which provides the means to transfer savings from firms, households, and governments to investors who want to purchase new capital goods. The course begins by discussing the various types of financial institutions and examines the importance of financial intermediation. The course then identifies how to measure the risks faced by financial institutions and how to manage these same risks. |
| SS473 | AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY | 3 | This course examines the development, implementation, and consequences of American foreign policy. It analyzes the actors who make American foreign policy, concentrating both on government sources such as the president, Congress, and the foreign policy bureaucracy, as well as external sources such as public opinion, interest groups, and the media. The course examines key events in U.S. foreign policy history through the lens of 'policy choice.' What choices did U.S. foreign policy makers confront? What policy did they choose to implement and why? What were the consequences of that policy? Utilizing the lessons from these historical case studies, the course then examines the current challenges and dilemmas that confront the United States. Some of these include U.S. relations with China, Russia, and the European Union, energy politics, the Arab-Israeli crisis, weapons of mass destruction and rogue states, terrorism, democracy promotion, and the global response to US foreign policy. In exploring each of these current challenges and dilemmas, this course attempts to understand the policies and strategies the U.S. utilizes to secure its interests and achieve its objectives. |
| SS475 | DEMOCRATIZATION | 3 | This course explores the fundamental political concepts of democracy and democratization. The assigned readings examine the normative and practical underpinnings of democracy, as well as the specific causes – and potential reversals -- of the “Third Wave” of democratization that has spread throughout the world over the past three decades. The course also debates effective American policy choices for newly emergent democracies that often suffer from instability and inequality. SS475 places particular emphasis on the states of Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, and on the problem of constructing a new post-Soviet security architecture in a context of democratization. The course also applies democratization concepts to the Middle East with case studies in Iraq and Afghanistan. |
| SS477 | ECONOMICS OF NATIONAL SECURITY | 3 | This is a capstone course for the economics major that is designed to integrate microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics and apply tools learned in those courses to address policy relevant issues in the economics of national security. The course also applies microeconomic analysis to case studies on defense personnel policies and weapon-system acquisition. The course discusses defense budgeting, including tracking the current Presidential budget submission, from the perspective of public finance and examines the economic impact of defense spending. Students use relevant databases, econometrics, and the skills they have learned as economics majors to prepare and present projects that analyze major defense and public policy decisions. |
| SS478 | DIST PROF OF SECURITY STUD SEM | 3 | This course is taught by a visiting scholar with a distinguished record of academic achievement and professional service in the national security arena. The seminar focuses on topical issues that reflect the professor's area of expertise. Dr. Kori Schake, a former Director of Defense Strategy and Requirements for the National Security Council and presently a distinguished fellow at the Hoover Institution, serves as our current visiting scholar. In the seminar, students take part in detailed discussions, deliver presentations, conduct research, and prepare analytical papers. Students also benefit from guest speakers who share their experiences and expertise with the seminar. Previous Distinguished Professors include General (Retired) Barry R. McCaffrey, former Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy; General (Retired) John Galvin, former commander of SACEUR and noted author; Professor Richard Shultz, Director of International Security Studies at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy; Professor Linda Brady, Director of the School of International Affairs at Georgia Institute of Technology; and Admiral (Retired) Stansfield Turner, former President of the Naval War College and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. |
| SS480 | ADV AM POLITICS, POLICY, STRAT | 3 | This course examines the major concepts, theoretical frameworks, and substantive dilemmas of the public policymaking process. The aim of this course is to arm students with a myriad of tools to understand, evaluate, and contextualize specific political problems in the public policy arena. SS480 is the capstone course for American Politics majors in the Social Sciences Department. Students will be expected to integrate the concepts of not only "Sosh" basic, toolbox, and elective courses, but knowledge acquired from other courses from other disciplines as well. Public policy spans the disciplines of politics, economics, sociology, philosophy, and psychology, as policymakers wrestle with developing and implementing value-laden decisions in a world of scarcity and uncertainty. As such, the student of public policy must use a variety of social science tools - and increasingly, physical science tools as well as to dissect policy problems, develop viable and feasible alternatives, and fashion methods of adoption and implementation. Consequently, this course is designed to build upon the student's conceptual and analytical base in the quest to establish and refine a systematic approach to public policy analysis, formulation, adoption, and implementation. |
| SS481 | DEFENSE POLICY AND POLITICS | 3 | This integrative seminar focuses on a current political and policy challenge of immense scope and importance to US armed forces, particularly to the US Army. That is, during the period of a "long war" against the forces of radical Islam how do military institutions adapt culturally and innovate technologically and organizationally to such a markedly changed security environment? Drawing from the literature of several sub-disciplines within the political sciences, cadets will review case studies of previous military adaptations to insurgent wars, both those successful and those unsuccessful. They will then apply the various theories of organizational change to the intensely political environment of current US defense policymaking with particular focus on the emerging counterinsurgency focus of the US Army. All research and writing requirements will be done within the cadets' Army branch of choice to better prepare each one for their initial years of professional service, as well as to bring the central themes of the course down to the Army and branch level. This course will bring together theoretical perspectives acquired during earlier studies and will provide future Officers the opportunity for a synthesis of their Academy experience. |
| SS483 | NATIONAL SECURITY SEMINAR | 3 | The International Politics capstone seminar provides an overview of U.S. national security policy and examines the military, political, and economic factors that influence its formulation. It establishes a conceptual framework for exploring how national interests are translated into national security policy and force structure. The course addresses three central issues: (1) the appropriate ends of national security policy, (2) the means by which we should pursue those ends, and (3) matching means with ends. Since many factors impact on strategic decisions, the course includes discussion of international, domestic, and organizational influences on national security policy. Theoretical readings combine with case studies of past and current U.S. strategic choices to illuminate critical points. The course closes by applying the lens of strategy to conduct an analysis of current proposals to revamp the structure of the Army. |
| SS486 | INTERNATIONAL SECURITY SEMINAR | 3 | This Comparative Politics capstone seminar examines the special historical, domestic, and external security issues that non-Western states face, and then examines how such issues influence these states’ formulation of their national security policies. Students explore how non-Western state regimes might use limited diplomatic, information, military, and economic means to achieve their regime goals. Students apply newly learned or previously learned IR or CP theories to analyze a non-Western state’s national security strategy, and then attempt to anticipate what such states might do under current domestic and international conditions. |
| SS490A | COLLOQUIUM (AMER POLITICS) | 3 | The colloquium provides cadets an opportunity for reading and analysis in depth in a topic area of special interest and timely relevance to their concentration. The course employs the seminar approach in which the instructor meets with small groups to discuss assigned readings, and cadets present their own analyses to the group. Course directors develop topics and determine the semesters in which they will be offered. Department Academic Counselors then forward course offerings and descriptions to Social Science majors and those majoring in areas related to the colloquium topic. Topics will vary by year but recent SS490 colloquiums include: Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict; Politics and Film; the Politics of Intelligence; Politics and Government of South and Southeast Asia; Philosophy, Religion, and Terror; and Winning the Peace. |
| SS490B | COLLOQUIUM (COMP POLITICS) | 3 | The colloquium provides cadets an opportunity for reading and analysis in depth in a topic area of special interest and timely relevance to their concentration. The course employs the seminar approach in which the instructor meets with small groups to discuss assigned readings, and cadets present their own analyses to the group. Course directors develop topics and determine the semesters in which they will be offered. Department Academic Counselors then forward course offerings and descriptions to Social Science majors and those majoring in areas related to the colloquium topic. Topics will vary by year but recent SS490 colloquiums include: Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict; Politics and Film; the Politics of Intelligence; Politics and Government of South and Southeast Asia; Philosophy, Religion, and Terror; and Winning the Peace. |
| SS490C | COLLOQUIUM (INTER RELATIONS) | 3 | The colloquium provides cadets an opportunity for reading and analysis in depth in a topic area of special interest and timely relevance to their concentration. The course employs the seminar approach in which the instructor meets with small groups to discuss assigned readings, and cadets present their own analyses to the group. Course directors develop topics and determine the semesters in which they will be offered. Department Academic Counselors then forward course offerings and descriptions to Social Science majors and those majoring in areas related to the colloquium topic. Topics will vary by year but recent SS490 colloquiums include: Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict; Politics and Film; the Politics of Intelligence; Politics and Government of South and Southeast Asia; Philosophy, Religion, and Terror; and Winning the Peace. |
| SS490D | COLLOQUIUM (ECONOMICS) | 3 | The colloquium provides cadets an opportunity for reading and analysis in depth in a topic area of special interest and timely relevance to their concentration. The course employs the seminar approach in which the instructor meets with small groups to discuss assigned readings, and cadets present their own analyses to the group. Course directors develop topics and determine the semesters in which they will be offered. Department Academic Counselors then forward course offerings and descriptions to Social Science majors and those majoring in areas related to the colloquium topic. Topics will vary by year but recent SS490 colloquiums include: Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict; Politics and Film; the Politics of Intelligence; Politics and Government of South and Southeast Asia; Philosophy, Religion, and Terror; and Winning the Peace. |
| SS491 | SENIOR STUDIES-INTNL RELATIONS | 3 | This course provides cadets an opportunity for reading and analysis in depth in a topic area of special interest and timely relevance to their concentration. The course employs the seminar approach in which a senior faculty member meets with small groups to discuss assigned readings, and cadets present their own analyses to the group. Course directors develop topics and determine the semesters in which they will be offered. Department Academic Counselors then forward course offerings and descriptions to Social Science majors and those majoring in areas related to the senior studies topic. Topics will vary by year but recent senior studies include: Homeland Security, Advanced Terrorism, and Environmental Economics. |
| SS494 | PRINCIPLES OF FINANCE | 3 | Principles of Finance is a first course in corporate finance. The course focuses on the study of the basic principles of finance and applying them to important decisions faced by the financial manager. The course covers the following topics: project analysis using the Net Present Value technique; risk and return for assets and projects; efficient capital markets; corporate capital structure and dividend policy; and derivatives. Specifically, cadets will learn how to value a project or a company using several different methods. Cadets will analyze an actual project or corporation using the techniques that they learn in the course. As the US Military continues to privatize many functions, knowledge of techniques used by corporations is becoming essential for our future Army leaders. |
| XE402 | INTERDISC INTEGRATIVE EXPR | 3 | This course gives cadets who are completing the EE or CS 3-course engineering sequence an opportunity to participate on senior design project teams in an integrative experience environment. The first half of the course requires analysis of economic, social, political, ethical, and other considerations related to the problem facing the team. During the second half of the course, each analysis is factored into the proposed solution while considering technical trade-offs. In the case of low enrollment in this course, cadets may act as consultants to more than one project team. |
| XE472 | DYNAMIC MODELING AND CONTROL | 3 | This course covers dynamic modeling and control of linear systems. The course provides an overview of classical control theory as the foundation for control applications in electrical, mechanical, and aeronautical systems. Topics here include system modeling using Laplace transform, frequency domain, and state variable methods. Mathematical models are developed for electrical, mechanical, aeronautical, and other physical control systems. Control systems analysis and design techniques are studied within the context of how each system is physically controlled in practice. Laboratory exercises include feedback design and system identification. Computer design exercises include dynamic modeling and control of various engineering systems. |
| XE475 | MECHATRONICS | 3.5 | XE 475 is a comprehensive introductory course in the field of mechatronics. Mechatronics is the crossroads in engineering where mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and controls engineering meet to create new and exciting real-world systems. Knowledge of mechanical and electrical components, controls theory, and design are integrated to solve actual physical design applications. |
| XE497 | CRITICAL SCIENTIFIC REASONING | 3 | The purpose of XE497, Critical Scientific Reasoning, is to improve the students’ ability to analyze complex problems in a variety of applied physical science applications using mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles and clearly articulate their analysis and results verbally and in writing. The process of pursuing this goal will make cadets better officers, scholars, and citizens. Several methods will be applied to assist in the pursuit of these goals. Fundamental scientific laws, principles, and theorems and their application to scientific and engineering problem solving will be reviewed. Breadth across a variety of scientific and engineering disciplines will be achieved by studying and discussing current research activities from a variety of fields as well as examining the limitations to scientific advancement in each field. The course will draw from several disciplines including Biology, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computing Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Mathematical Science, Mechanical Engineering and Physics. In order to take advantage of the diverse skills of the USMA faculty and selected experts from outside USMA, some classes will be led by guest instructors, each of whom will recommend readings in support of his or her topic. |
| XH497 | CRITICAL THOUGHT | 3 | The purpose of XH497, Critical Thought is to improve cadets' ability to evaluate complex issues involving ethical judgements and choice among scarce resources, reach reasoned positions on these issues, and effectively argue their positions verbally and in writing. The process of pursuing this goal will make cadets better officers, scholars, and citizens. The course will employ several methods to assist in this pursuit. First, it will achieve breadth by focusing on current issues from a variety of fields, examining the "hard choices" that confront society, government, military leaders, and individual citizens. Among the disciplines from which the course will draw are Philosophy, Law, Political Science, Economics, Physics, Biology, and English. Each cadet will also be assigned an individual mentor from among the faculty of the Departments of Social Sciences, History, Law, or English. Requirements include a briefing on a current issue in the cadet's major field, a book review, and a personal statement summarizing academic and other goals. |
| XS391 | PRIN & APPL OF ENV CHEM | 3 | This course examines chemical interactions of pollutants in air, soil, and water systems. The focus of the course is problem solving with the following topic coverage: approximately 80% applied aquatic chemistry, 15% environmental organic chemistry, and 5% applied analytical chemistry. Specific topics include the chemistry applied in drinking water production and the chemical aspects of industrial and hazardous waste treatment. The fate of heavy metals and organic contaminants in soil and aqueous systems is also discussed. |