LU - Professional Studies

This course enables accelerated students to transition successfully to Lewis University.  It assesses and enhances students' academic and study skills.  Course topics include information literacy, writing and critical thinking skills, online learning, degree planning, and career development.  Students will complete assessments in learning styles, writing, quantitative reasoning, and computer competency.

Students interested in writing a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Portfolio for elective credit must first take this one credit hour seminar.  In the course, students identify prior learning that may earn them college credit and learn to write essays for the PLA Portfolio.   Those interested in enrolling should first attend a PLA Orientation Workshop or meet individually with the PLA Coordinator.  Class is graded on a pass/fail basis.  

This course offers ongoing academic support for students writing Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Portfolios.  Student work is individualized and no class meetings are required.  In order to maintain good standing in the course, students will write at least one prior learning essay per semester.   Students in the course will not be charged tuition and will not earn credit hours.  Class is graded on a pass/fail basis. (Prerequisites:  LU 205 or 76 205)

Explores the role of technology in contemporary professional settings by introducing the functions of computer software and hardware, networks, the internet, and social media.  Applies knowledge of computer systems to work based problems and the broader context of rapid technological change.  A basic level of computer proficiency is a necessary prerequisite for this course.

In this course, Professional Studies majors begin an e-portfolio designed to demonstrate their learning and present their knowledge and skills to prospective employers.  Course topics include:  e-portfolio tools, e-portfolio design and development, and using e-portfolios to enhance career planning and development.  Students will develop one e-portfolio module.  In each course of the Professional Studies Core, students will add to their e-portfolio.  Prerequisite:  Students must have completed or be registered for LU105 during the same semester.

Identifies habits of thought that promote self-awareness, open inquiry, and differentiation between ideas or arguments.  Introduces and applies methods reflecting on assumptions and values, evaluating sources, assessing arguments, and formulating conclusions based on evidence. (Prerequisites: LU 105; LN 112)

Examines theories and applications of collaboration in work environments.  Topics include identifying individual differences in team/group work, assessing group dynamics, and applying collaborative communication and leadership strategies.  (Prerequisite: LU 105)

Examines how global interconnectedness affects local communities and professional contexts.  Students analyze the ways social, cultural, and economic issues transcend national boundaries and explore transnational connectedness, difference, and inequality in an applied project that promotes critical reflection.  Course topic will vary.  (Pre-requisite LU 105)

Students develop independent projects that address professional or work-based initiatives and/or problems.  Topics include identifying a topic, determining appropriate sources, and writing a proposal. (Prerequisite: LU310)

Students implement a professional or work-based project, analyze its outcomes, and assess their learning.  (Fulfills the Advanced Writing Requirement; Prerequisite:  LU 401)