Current Semester

Art is everywhere, but do you know how to talk about it? This course will introduce you to the world of art from prehistory to the contemporary period, focusing especially on the western tradition. You will explore histories and meanings of images in societies throughout time and across cultures, selecting themes and aspects related to forms of visual communication as well as the diverse roles played by artists and viewers.

Delve into the theories, concepts, and language necessary for contemporary discussion of art and art history. In this course, we will explore histories and practices of critical approaches to the arts, from the classical notions of beauty and mimesis to contemporary concerns related to the body, power, race, gender, material culture, and other ways to approach and interpret art. You will be introduced to conceptual tools and vocabulary of historical and current art theories, and will gain an insight into the polyphony of narratives defining art and its histories.

"An examination of biological molecules, cell structure and fundamental cellular processes, bioenergetics, genetics, evolution, and animal and plant physiology. ***Prerequisite: Biology 30 and Chemistry 30 are strongly recommended*** *Note: This course is designed for biology majors, pre-professional students, secondary education science students, and those wanting two semesters of biology. Students seeking a single semester introductory course are advised to take Biology 140 or 150* "

An introductory-level course covering the principles of biology with examples taken from humans.

Ce cours étudie les principes biologiques en mettant l'emphase sur le corps humain. L'enseignement comprend des cours magistraux et des périodes de laboratoire. Les sujets abordés comprennent: structure et fonction cellulaire, génétique moléculaire et hérédité humaine, une introduction à l'organisation du corps humain avec les systèmes digestif, circulatoire, pulmonaire et reproductif, les mécanismes de l'évolution ainsi que les relations entre l'humain et son environnement. Les méthodes d'évaluation comprennent des examens, une présentation orale en groupes et des exercices de laboratoire. Ce cours est destiné aux étudiants qui ont besoin d'un cours de science naturelle pour compléter leur programme d'étude ou qui s'intéressent à la biologie humaine. Ce cours n'est pas destiné aux étudiants inscrits dans le programme de Biologie.

Did you ever wonder how a spider can walk on water, why the colour of leaves are changing in fall, or why you look different from your siblings? We will answer these and other every day questions surrounding biology, and talk about how scientists investigate life, evolution, cell theory, biological diversity, genetics, biotechnology, and so much more. This course is designed for students who do not intend to be biology majors and who are not in pre-professional programs.

An introduction to insects. The course will introduce several topics in entomology, including the evolutionary origins and relationships and their relatives, including morphology, life history strategies and an introduction to insect diversity, taxonomy and ecology.

This course focuses on basic methodology and applications of stable isotope analysis in ecology. Discussing the classical and current literature in the field will enable students to critically evaluate published studies and help design their own research projects.

What makes a brand, and why are some brands more successful than others? We will explore design practices for branding and advertising as they are developed in a professional environment. Through experiential learning processes, lectures, case studies, and studio projects, you will gain practical and theoretical knowledge to create and understand the visual language underpinning brand identities and advertising campaigns.

Want to learn the principles for designing eye-catching and effective online communications and advertisements? We will study the skills, experiences, and critical thinking related to the production of online communication experiences. While investigating case studies and visual communication principles, you will engage with projects including display/mobile advertising as well as the design of a website.

Did you love the Harry Potter series and want to read more books like it? If so, this class is for you! We will study Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman, and The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander. We will look at the mythological elements used in the novels, particularly the idea of an archetypal hero, as well as how these novels fit into a tradition of children's literature.

J.R.R. Tolkien is one of the great writers of the 20th century, & his works are among the greatest achievements in fantasy fiction. We’ll discuss The Lord of the Rings, a text that is familiar due to its incredible cultural impact, as well as a number of shorter writings by Tolkien. By exploring many of the influences and contexts that shape his works, this course seeks to deepen understanding of the complex & dynamic relationship between fantasy & reality in Tolkien’s fiction and in fiction generally.

A survey of Canadian Literature in English from the pre-twentieth century to the present day.

The theory and practice of expository and persuasive writing. Each student will be expected to write several papers in a variety of modes of writing.

This course provides insights into five major regions of the world. The physical environmental characteristics (physical geography) and the socioeconomic characteristics (human geography) of each region are examined in order to provide an all-encompassing understanding of the regions. Country case studies will be used to provide in-depth analyses of prominent issues within each region, such as the Syrian civil war; Nigeria’s struggle for political-economic stability; South Africa’s legacies of apartheid; China’s rise as a global superpower; the emerging market economies of southeast Asia, and Australia as Asia’s “farm and mine.”

This regional geography course begins with a critical overview of explanations of development or lack of development in the so-called “third world.” Overarching historical and contemporary processes that have shaped and continue to shape the region, including colonization, dependency, and globalization, and their impacts, will be evaluated to help explain the similarities and differences in the geography of development (or underdevelopment). Next, analyses of specific development-related topics will provide systematic insights into this broadly similar, but also heterogeneous region. Specific topics to be covered will include economic reforms, aid and debt, urbanization, population and the fertility transition, agriculture and the exceptional problem of famine, and industrialization.

This course explores the influence of the past on the world in which we live. Topics addressed will be taken from today’s headlines and will reflect a wide variety of periods and geographical areas. Topics may include terrorism, environmentalism, war, demonstrations, popular culture, the welfare state, global crises.

This course is on the history and historiography of Native people in Canada. It will cover aspects of the history of Native people from coast to coast since the time of European contact. It will also look at the changing ways in which historians have approached and interpreted that history.

Between 1450 and 1750, cultural encounters both within Europe and beyond increased in scale, frequency and intensity. Within Europe, the Reformation led to a century of violence, forced migrations and persecution. European relations with the Ottoman Empire to the east provided another site of complex intercultural encounters. As Europeans began expanding overseas, a range of new relations took form, through the activities of trade, colonization and conquest. This course will examine how factors like religion, language, ethnicity, race and class shaped early modern identities and informed cultural interactions during this period of violent upheaval and change.

Why were tens of thousands of people - mostly women - tried for witchcraft in early modern Europe? The answer is complicated. This course will examine the origins, evolution and decline of the witch hunts in Western Europe from 1400-1700. We will consider the witch hunts from various angles, including: gender and society, religion and magic, health and medicine, and politics and law. We’ll also explore related topics, such as demonic possession, the role of the inquisition, and the use of torture. Students will be introduced to primary sources from this era, including actual trial transcripts. Students will learn how historians draw on fields such as psychology, sociology, anthropology and feminist theory in order to understand the history of the witch hunts.

Defining humanity; recognising the rights of all people; determining social roles for men and women; tracing the effects of Western Imperialism; coming to terms with Western perceptions of Islam: while many of these issues are common for us in the 21st century, people have been trying to understand and solve them for over 300 years. This course will examine these and other so-called “contemporary issues” by placing them within their historical context, beginning in the 17th century and continuing through to today, and by studying what political thinkers, essayists, and even poets, novelists, and artists of the past had to say about them. By using the perspectives from a variety of disciplines—especially history, sociology, psychology, political science, and even literary studies—we will look at how the world-views of our ancestors have shaped the world that we live in today, with the hope that by understanding the past we are not condemned to repeat it.

An ecomuseum is a locally-led organization that helps a community foster sustainable development by exploring, interpreting, and preserving its heritage in multifaceted and dynamic ways. Since the concept was developed in the 1970’s, hundreds of ecomuseums, sometimes called “museums without walls,” have been established around the world, and the number in Saskatchewan has been growing since interest in the idea was rekindled in 2011. Using the UN Sustainable Development Goals as a frame of reference, we will examine the history of ecomuseums and the impacts they are having in Saskatchewan and other parts of the world. We will also carry out tangible projects aimed at helping the Civic Museum of Regina, as it starts to apply the ecomuseum model.

Differentiation of algebraic, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Optimization, curve sketching, and integration by substitution. 

An introduction of algebraic and trigonometric functions, limits, and continuity. Theory and techniques of differentiation and integration. Related rates, optimization, curve sketching, area under a curve, and area between curves. Mean Value Theorem and Rolle’s Theorem.

An introduction of algebraic and trigonometric functions, limits, and continuity. Theory and techniques of differentiation and integration. Related rates, optimization, curve sketching, area under a curve, and area between curves. Mean Value Theorem and Rolle’s Theorem.

An introduction of algebraic and trigonometric functions, limits, and continuity. Theory and techniques of differentiation and integration. Related rates, optimization, curve sketching, area under a curve, and area between curves. Mean Value Theorem and Rolle’s Theorem.

The objective of this course is to introduce students to elementary linear algebra, particularly at a computational and applied level. Topics include vectors in Euclidean space, systems of linear equations, Gaussian reduction, matrices, matrix operations, vector spaces, linear dependence, bases, dimensions, determinants, eigenvectors and eigenvalues. The emphasis of this course is on problem-solving rather than theoretical development.

Solutions to non-linear equations. Existence and uniqueness of solution to initial-value problems. Series solutions and Frobenius Method. Introduction to Bessel’s and Legendre’s equations and their solutions. Orthogonal functions, orthogonal series, and Fourier series. Solutions of boundary-value problems using separation of variables. Solutions to non-homogeneous equations and/or non-homogeneous boundary conditions. Introduction to transform methods.

What would life be without music? This entertaining journey into the world of Western classical art music is geared toward students with no or little musical background who wish to increase their music listening skills. We will learn about the instruments of the orchestra and basic musical elements, followed by a chronological survey of important composers (including Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, etc.) and representative genres (chant, mass, symphony, concerto, opera, etc.). Students will write three tests and prepare a concert report during the semester; there will be no final exam. Study guides, assignment instructions, and lecture notes will be posted on the UR Courses website. NOTE: Attendance of local concerts featuring classical music is required. No music reading ability is necessary.

Tracing the fascinating history of Western European music during the Classical, Romantic, and Modern periods, and developing basic listening, writing, and critical thinking skills are the main goals of this fast-paced survey course. Progress throughout the semester will be assessed via three tests. Two shorter assignments will prepare students for carrying out research on a pre-assigned topic, culminating in a short research paper and bibliography to replace the final exam. Study guides, assignment instructions, and lecture notes will be posted on the UR Courses website. Attendance of local concerts is also required. NOTE: This class is compulsory for, and geared toward students majoring in music and music education; all registered students must have music reading skills and possess a basic knowledge of music theory.

Introduction to the nonprofit/voluntary sector including its unique characteristics and central philosophy/values, volunteerism and philanthropy, scope and size, history, types of organizations, roles in society, relationships with governments and business sector, economic contributions, ethical challenges and current critical issues. The course focuses on Saskatchewan specifically and Canada generally. ***Pre-requisite: Completion of 15 credit hours or permission of the Department.*** * Note: Formerly numbered IDS 290AA. Students may receive credit for only one of IDS 290AA or NSLI 200. * 

An introduction to management and leadership principles and practices for nonprofit organizations, including regulatory requirements, organization types, governance and decision-making models, strategic planning, capacity building, leadership styles, sustainability, partnerships/alliances with other organizations, and roles and responsibilities of boards of directors. Technology and software resources for organizational development are presented. ***Pre-requisite: NSLI 200 or IDS 290AA or permission of the Department.*** 

The course emphasizes theoretical and practical considerations in the governance of nonprofit organizations. It focuses on what boards, the volunteers who serve on them do, and how they do it to maximize nonprofit governance and organizational effectiveness. Emphasis on competencies of highly effective boards, CEOs, board chairs, and leadership volunteers.

Philosophy seeks to satisfy our intellectual curiosity about enduring questions: what we can know, what is meaningful, how should we live our lives—all dimensions of the traditional search for wisdom. We will explore questions concerning knowledge and truth, mind and body, personal identity, free will, morality, politics, and the existence of God. You will also be introduced to various areas of philosophy including metaphysics, critical thinking, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and philosophy of religion.

Critical Thinking is an introduction to the systematic study of reasoning. It teaches the theory and practice of good reasoning, allowing students to identify arguments in everyday speech and writing and to understand what makes a good argument. Students will also learn to identify and avoid the most common mistakes in reasoning. The course provides students with reasoning skills that are useful in whatever disciplines and careers they may pursue (such as law, journalism, or business). More generally, Critical Thinking empowers students to formulate and express their own ideas and arguments well, building their capacity to act as citizens and as full participating members of communities to which they belong.

This course examines contemporary philosophical debates about spiritual and religious claims (for example, the existence of God, reincarnation, spiritual energy (qi/chi)), religious experience, and the role of reason in holding spiritual beliefs. In doing so, modern formulations of traditional objections to these claims (such as the problem of evil and non-supernatural explanations for their origins) and the meaningfulness of religious language will be examined. Other topics including ways of intellectually responding to conflicts between religious traditions, the relationship between religion, ethics and politics, and religious and spiritual practices (such as prayer) will also be explored.

This course offers an introduction to the psychology of the human individual and focuses on topics having to do with intelligence, development, personality, psychological disorders and the social environment of the person. This course also provides an overview of the history of the development of psychology and the research methods used in psychology. Through this course, students will gain an understanding of human behaviour and will learn to become critical consumers of information that is available to them through media and other sources.

A study of developmental processes across the lifespan; the interaction between environmental and biological processes; maturational and learning factors; how these interact with social influences in the developing person.

The study of human behaviour in its social context dealing with the impressions we form of others and emphasizing the influence of group membership and interactions upon important psychological processes. Topics include: non-verbal language/body language, persuasion, propaganda, attitudes, prejudice, discrimination, prosocial behaviour, love/relationships, charismatic leaders and cults.

An integrative course examining various perspectives on the study of the person.

An integrative course examining various perspectives on the study of the person.

An overview of the field of forensic psychology – the intersection of psychology and the law. Topics include: psychology of police investigations, deception, eyewitness testimony, child victims and witnesses, juries, mental illness in court, sentencing and parole, domestic violence, sexual offenders, psychopathy, risk assessment, and special offender populations.

An examination of the major theories and research methodologies in the field of the Psychology of Women. Philosophical values of feminism and the psychological impact of women's historical roles in society will be considered throughout the course. A cross-cultural comparison of women's issues will be included.

This course will discuss in detail issues related to psychological and psychiatric disorders including diagnosis, definition, history, and controversies surrounding classification. This course will use the scientist/practitioner approach to abnormal psychology that emphasizes the application of clinical methods from an empirical perspective. Issues related to service delivery in terms of therapy and treatment will also be discussed.

An introduction to the academic study of religion; a survey of the thought and practices of major world religions; the impact of religion on society and culture; modern scholarly approaches to religious experience.

An introduction to the academic study of religion; a survey of the thought and practices of major world religions; the impact of religion on society and culture; modern scholarly approaches to religious experience.

What do religions have to say about women, and what do women have to say about religion? This course surveys traditional and feminist perspectives on women and the feminine in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and within Canadian First Nations teachings. In addition to lectures and much discussion, students will have the opportunity to view videos and listen to women who are adherents of each tradition.

Is being religious an asset for health? Yes, according to some studies. Conversely, some religious beliefs and practices seem to undermine modern medicine. We will explore beliefs and practices regarding health, disease, healing, and mortality in a variety of religious/ spiritual traditions from around the world, and examine how these affect, positively and negatively, both individual and community health. We will consider empirical studies of religion and health outcomes, and conclude by asking what kind of place, if any, religious or spiritual considerations should have in the delivery of modern health care, in the practice of doctors and other health care specialists and workers, and in government health care policy.

This course explores the Muslim encounter with the modern age. It examines the traditional religious stance of the Islamic community, and the significant movements and influences that have affected it. It studies specific problems faced and decisions taken, and analyzes adaptations and tensions in Islamic faith and life resulting from the encounter.

This course introduces students to sociological analyses and theoretical perspectives on the place of religion in modern society. The course focuses on issues such as secularization, fundamentalism, sects and cults, and Third World religious movements.

This course introduces students to sociological analyses and theories of ethnic and cultural diversity, with an emphasis on contemporary Canada. Specific topics might include Aboriginal cultures in Canadian society, issues arising from conflicts between concepts of human rights and specific cultural practices, overt and systemic racism, and controversies about immigration.

Have you ever wondered why boys don’t cry and women like pink? Have you heard of feminism? Figuring out the world begins with thinking about ourselves-our upbringing, our social location, our perceptions - and wondering where our ideas come from. If you like thinking about theory but also about making a difference in the world, or if you have questions about sexualities, politics, religion, colonialism and First Nations teachings, men’s movements, economics, and global development, or if you just want to know the history of the North American movement, try this class out.