Clusters

ANALYSES OF IDENTITY

F1. Inventing My Future: The First Gen Experience (Total = 7 s.h.)
This cluster is intended for students who are in the first generation of their family to go to college, meaning that neither of their parents or guardians has earned a 4-year degree from an institution in the USA. First-Generation students represent one in every three Hofstra students, and one out of two students nationally. Led by faculty who were either first-generation themselves or who have a history of working to support them, this cluster will allow students to connect with faculty and each other, foster a sense of belonging, and engage their intellectual curiosity. Students will learn and be encouraged to utilize various University resources that can aid in their academic and social success, read texts and articles pertaining to the first-generation student experience, work on projects comparing such circumstances in a historical context, and reflect and write about their own experience and motivations for going to college. Learning in such an environment can help first-generation students better understand “how to college” and form a community of support to draw upon in their time at Hofstra. Additional engagement opportunities will include off campus trips, home-cooked meals by first-generation faculty and staff, peer and/or faculty/staff mentorship, networking opportunities, and academic success and career planning workshops. 

Please note: HIST 20 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Social Sciences category; UNIV 101 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the electives category; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The First-Generation living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

HIST 20, sec. F1: Why Black History Matters (HP), (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 9:10-11:05 a.m., Katrina Sims 
and
WSC 1, sec. F1: Composition (3 s.h.)   
M/W, 11:20 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Kristopher Lotier 
and
UNIV 101, sec. F1: University 101: First-Gen (1 s.h.)
W, 2:40-3:40 p.m., Russ Smith

EXPLORATIONS OF FILM, CULTURE, TELEVISION, AND PHILOSOPHY

F2: Creating Compelling Television (Total = 9 s.h.) 
This cluster is intended primarily for Television majors or for other RTVF majors with an interest in Television. It combines critical analysis of the aesthetics of television from pioneers in early serialized television through its evolution to current genres and streaming content, along with an introduction to scripted television writing, that is, developing an original story for an existing episodic show. Students who take this cluster gain a deep understanding for where TV has been and where it is heading and why we all love it. They also hone their writing skills - both critical and creative - by taking two required courses within the major, while deepening their understanding of the art of storytelling in this exciting format.

Please note: Both RTVF 16 and RTVF 34 are required of all Television majors (BA and BS) and BFA Writing for the Screen majors; RTVF 34 is also accepted for credit for those pursuing a Creative Writing Minor; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The Studio living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

RTVF 016, sec. F2: Television Aesthetics and Criticism, (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 9:40-11:05 a.m., Kelcey Edwards
and
RTVF 034, sec. F2: Foundations of Television Writing, (3 s.h.)
T/TH, 2:40-4:05 p.m., Geoffrey Tarson 
and
WSC 1, sec. F2: Composition (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 4:20-5:45 p.m., Sammantha McCalla

F3: Media, Society, and Culture (Total = 9 s.h.) 
Modern media and communication technologies continue to evolve at an exponential speed and function as an increasingly integral, if not indispensable, part of one’s everyday life as well as public life. This cluster introduces students to the fundamentals of analyzing media’s historical impact on society as well as its future trajectory. In doing so, students learn about the cultural significance of modern media in the U.S. and around the world since its inception. Students are invited to reflect on current trends and underlying societal norms that media productions and innovations reflect, disrupt, or reinforce. We pay particular attention to how media developments contribute to the maintenance of existing power relations as well as create new power.

Please note: MASS 1 is required of all communication majors; RHET 1 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Humanities Distribution category; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The Communication living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

RHET 1, sec. F3: Oral Communication (CP), (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 11:20 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Jamel Hudson
and
MASS 1, sec. F3: Mass Media: History and Development (3 s.h.)
M/W, 2:40-4:05 p.m., Brian McFadden
and
WSC 1, sec. F3: Composition (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 4:20-5:45 p.m., Robert Plath

F4: Film and Philosophy (Total = 9 s.h.)
This cluster integrates introductory courses in film and philosophy with first-year composition. The film course introduces the basic language of filmic expression and the methodologies of film study, including their influence on television and video. There is an emphasis on the ways of looking at films and television, the major concepts of theory, the various forms of film and television, and the techniques that determine visual styles. In the philosophy course, students consider whether film is a passive mirror of a preexisting reality, or whether we should think of it as possessing the power to actively construct a reality of its own. Can film be morally or socially dangerous? In the composition course, students write in a variety of genres about their work in the other two courses.

Please note: RTVF 10 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Humanities category; PHI 10 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Social Sciences category; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The Studio living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

RTVF 10, sec. F4: Introduction to Cinema Studies (AA), (3 s.h.) 
M, 9:10 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Breixo Viejo 
and
PHI 10, sec. F4: Introduction to Philosophy (HP), (4 s.h.) double check meet time
M/W, 2:40-4:35 p.m., Amy Karofsky 
and
WSC 1, sec. F4: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 11:20 a.m.–12:45 p.m., TBA

F5: Film Studies and Production (Total = 6 s.h.)
This cluster is intended primarily for film majors, or for other RTVF majors with an interest in film. It combines the critical analysis of film aesthetics and narrative form (RTVF 10) with the practical application of those same principles in the students’ own short film projects (RTVF 27). By taking the first two film requirements together as a cluster, students begin to form connections as a community — a “network” that will benefit them throughout their studies.

Please note: RTVF 10 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Humanities category; both RTVF 10 and RTVF 27 are required of all film majors or RTVF majors with an interest in film. The Studio living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

RTVF 10, sec. F5: Introduction to Cinema Studies (AA), (3 s.h.) 
W, 9 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Rodney Hill
and
RTVF 27, sec. F5: Introductory Film Production (3 s.h.) 
 T/TH, 1-2:25 p.m., George Nicholas 
or 
RTVF 27, sec. FI: Introductory Film Production (3 s.h.) 
 TH, 9:40-11:05 a.m., William Jennings

PERFORMING ARTS

F6: Elements of Music (Total = 7-9 s.h.) all cluster details confirmed
This cluster is designed for music majors, music education majors, or music minors, but is also suitable for non-majors with strong musical backgrounds. It includes a comprehensive survey of the fundamentals of music theory and notation, sight- reading for singing and rhythmic training, and the principles of voice leading and melodic structure that are most useful in the study of tonal harmony.
Please note: MUS 61/61A and MUS 69/69A are required for all music majors. Students are placed in either MUS 61 or 61A, and either MUS 69 or 69A, based on their score on Hofstra’s music assessment test. WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The S.T.A.G.E. living- learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

MUS 61, sec. F6: Elementary Ear Training (2 s.h.) 
M/F, 10:10-11:05 a.m., Andres Maldonado 
or 
MUS 61A, sec. F6: Elementary Ear Training (3 s.h.)
M/W/F, 10:10-11:05 a.m., Neil Holcomb

and

MUS 69, sec. F6: Music Fundamentals (2 s.h.) 
M/F, 8:30 -9:25 a.m., Andres Maldonado 
or 
MUS 69A, sec. F6: Music Fundamentals (3 s.h.) 
M/W/F, 8:30-9:25 a.m., Neil Holcomb

and

WSC 1, sec. F6: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 1:00-2:25 p.m., Tejan Green Waszak

F7: Modern Dance (Total = 8-10 s.h.) 
This cluster is designed for incoming majors in dance or dance education. DNCE 11 focuses on technique in contemporary dance forms, and it is the first course in a four-year major sequence. Students in the Bachelor of Arts track meet three times a week for DNCE 11; students in the Bachelor of Fine Arts track meet five times a week for DNCE 11. Students in both tracks will take MUS 151, which is a study of musical concepts as they apply to dance, and a composition course, in which writing assignments are connected to dance criticism. Students attend a variety of dance and music performances in New York City during the semester.
Please note: DNCE 11 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Humanities category; MUS 151 is required for dance majors on the BFAtrack and is strongly recommended for dance majors on the BA track; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The S.T.A.G.E. living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

BA and BFA Tracks:
DNCE 11, sec. FC: Freshman Performance Lab 
F, 11:20 a.m. – 12:45 p.m., Robin Becker
and
MUS 151, sec. F7: Rhythmic Training and Accompaniment for Dance (3 s.h.) 
T, 4:20-7:05 p.m., Mark Katsaounis
and
WSC 1, sec. F7: Composition (3 s.h.)    
T/TH, 9:40-11:05 a.m., Elizabeth Gold
and
BA Track: 
DNCE 11, sec. FA: Modern Dance I (CP), (2 s.h.) 
T/TH, 2:40-4:05 p.m., Robin Becker

BFA Track: 
DNCE 11, sec. FAX: Modern Dance I (CP), (4 s.h.)  
M/W, 11:20 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Robin Becker and Telly Fowler 
T/TH, 2:40-4:05 p.m., Telly Fowler

ENGINEERING, COMPUTING, PRE-HEALTH SCIENCES

F8: Engineering (Total = 6 s.h.)
This cluster explores the world that humans have designed — the products and processes used in its development. There are three main components of the first-year engineering design course. First, the informed design process connects basic science and mathematics to an eight-step design cycle that enables students to grasp the basics of conceptual engineering design. Second, teamwork is emphasized: Students collaborate on homework and compete with other teams in designing lab projects. Third, communication skills are explored and developed through problem-solving activities and brainstorming sessions. Class sessions are composed of rich media content, including animations, video clips, graphic images, music, and active learning methods to enhance student involvement. Five lab projects allow teams to design and build their own prototypes within project specifications and time constraints, develop good interpersonal team dynamics, and improve their oral and written communication skills.

Please note: ENGG 15 is required for students majoring in Engineering or Computer Engineering; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for the cluster without the WSC 1 component. The Math/Science/Engineering living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

ENGG 15, sec. F8: Designing the Human-Made World, (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 11:20 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Mauro Caputi

and

ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FAL 
M, 2:40-4:40 p.m., Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FBL 
W, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Sarah Rode and Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FCL 
TH, 2:40-4:40 p.m., Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FDL  
T, 2:40-4:40 p.m., Minjeong Suh and Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FEL 
T, 6:00-8:00 p.m., George DeMarco and Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FFL 
TH, 6:00-8:00 p.m., George DeMarco and Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FGL 
M, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Sarah Rode and Mauro Caputi 
or 
ENGG 15 Lab, sec. FHL 
W, 2:40-4:40 p.m., TBD

and
 
WSC 1, sec. FAL: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 9:40-11:05 a.m., TBD 
or 
WSC 1, sec. FBL: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 1:00-2:25 p.m., Daniel Cole 
or 
WSC 1, sec. FCL: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 11:20 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Daniel Cole 
or 
WSC 1, sec. FDL: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 9:40-11:05 a.m., Daniel Cole 
or 
WSC 1, sec. FEL: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 11:20 a.m.-12:45 p.m., TBD

F9: Introduction to Computing: Cryptography (Total = 7 s.h.)
Cryptography, the study of making codes, is simultaneously ancient and modern. It is said that Julius Caesar used codes to communicate with his generals in the battlefield so that even if a messenger was waylaid by his enemies, they would not understand what he was trying to communicate. In modern times, some cryptographic techniques ensure that an eavesdropper cannot steal your credit card number; others assure you that an app that you downloaded was actually created by the company stated on the website; and yet others ensure that your electronic medical records are safe from prying eyes. In this cluster, you will learn some interesting ideas in cryptography. But beyond that you will learn the foundations of computing, both applied and theoretical, and a new way of thinking: computational thinking. We help you to build your skill set and the mindset for solving problems efficiently and creatively. In CSC 15, you will participate in hands-on projects in code making and code breaking. In CSC 14, you will explore the mathematical underpinnings of cryptography in the course of laying a strong foundation for understanding fundamental problems in computer science.

Please note: Priority is given to computer science and computer engineering majors, but non-majors are welcome. CSC 14 satisfies a University graduation requirement in either the Computer Science or Mathematics category; CSC 15 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Computer Science category. The Math/Science/Engineering living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

CSC 14, sec. F9: Discrete Structures for Computer Science I (CS, MA), (3 s.h.) 
Lecture, M/W, 2:40-4:05 p.m.; Lab, F, 11:20 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Gretchen Ostheimer
and
CSC 15, sec. F9 and FAL: Fundamentals of Computer Science (CS), (4 s.h.) 
Lecture, M/W, 11:20 a.m. -12:45 p.m.; Lab, T, 6-7:55  p.m.; Krishnan Pillaipakkamnatt

F10: Computer Science: Computing Core (Total = 7 s.h.) 
Computing has become as essential as electricity. Computer programs  and computing devices are indispensable in our daily lives. They create rich imaginative worlds, make new discoveries in science  possible, extend the human abilities. We are truly at the edge of a new frontier where machines will augment humans and where humans will interact naturally with computer systems and machines. In this cluster we examine the foundations in mathematics and computer science on which all computer programs are built. The cluster allows the same group of students to take together the core courses in the Computer Science Department curriculum : “CSC14 Discrete Structures” and “ CSC15 Problem Solving and Programming”. These courses are required for students majoring in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Computer Science and Cybersecurity” and for all students taking a minor in these areas.

Please note: Priority is given to majors listed above, but non-majors are welcome. CSC 14 satisfies a University graduation requirement in either the Computer Science or Mathematics category; CSC 15 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Computer Science category. The Math/Science/Engineering living- learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn for information.

CSC 14, sec. F10: Discrete Structures for Computer Science I (CS, MA), (3 s.h.) 
Lecture, T/TH, 3:50-5:45 p.m., Marco Romanelli
and
CSC 15, sec. F10 and FBL: Fundamentals of Computer Science (CS), (4s.h.) 
Lecture, M/W, 9:10-11:05 a.m..; Lab, W,. 3:50-5:45 p.m.; Gerda Kamberova

F11. Robotics (Total = 7 s.h.)
Robotics is an example of embodied cognition, or an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system with sensors and a moving body. Robots interact with the environment and adapt to changes in real-time. Early robots could only navigate using a fixed map in a static environment. More recently, robots are at the front-front of autonomous car development, with complex sensors that dynamically update the map and the robot's location in it, and cameras that detect objects 'seen' by the robot. Advanced robots are used in dangerous territory such as combat or disaster zones to perform tasks that humans cannot. In this cluster you will learn about sensors and algorithms that robots use for autonomous navigation. You will also implement some basic algorithms on an actual robot.

Please note: Priority is given to computer science and computer engineering majors, but non-majors are welcome. CSC 14 satisfies a University graduation requirement in either the Computer Science or Mathematics category; CSC 15 satisfies a University graduation requirement in the Computer Science category. The Math/Science/Engineering living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in this cluster. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

CSC 14, sec. F11: Discrete Structures for Computer Science I (CS, MA), (3 s.h.) 
Lecture,  T/TH 1:00-2:25 p.m. .; Lab, R 2:40-3:35 p.m., TBD
and
CSC 15, sec. F11 and FCL: Fundamentals of Computer Science(CS), (4s.h.) 
Lecture, M/W, 2:40-4:05 p.m.; Lab, T, 2:40-3:35 p.m.; Simona Doboli

F12-13:  Pre-Health Sciences 
Students seeking to pursue a broad range of healthcare professions (such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary sciences, nursing, nutrition, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assistant studies) will need to possess a solid foundation in science, particularly biology and chemistry. After all, organisms are massive collections of biological molecules executing complex combinations of chemical reactions in a highly controlled and regulated manner. The Pre-Health Sciences Clusters explore general chemistry, biological processes from ecosystems to cells, and the interplay between these disciplines in the function of organisms, particularly humans. Throughout the cluster, we consider how various chemical and biological processes are related and influence the human condition. Students may select different combinations of courses within the pre-health sciences clusters, depending on their major interests and academic background. The Health Sciences track in Cluster F17 introduces students to applied health research and epidemiology methods, the importance of teamwork in the health professions, and is ideal for students majoring in Health Science, Exercise Physiology (Pre-Medical Studies concentration), and School of Health Sciences undecided majors.

Please note: The Pre-Health Sciences clusters carry an additional $135 laboratory fee. 
BIOL 112 and CHEM 3A satisfy University graduation requirements in both the Natural Sciences and Quantitative Reasoning categories; WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for one of the clusters without the WSC 1 component. The Pre-Health Professions (PreP) living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in these clusters. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

F12 (Total = 11 s.h.) All course details confirmed for this cluster

BIOL 112, sec. F12: General Biology I (NS, QR), (4 s.h.) 
M/W/F, 8:30-9:25 a.m., TBD
and
CHEM 3A, sec. F12: General Chemistry (NS, QR), (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 9:40-11:05 a.m., and F, 10:10-11:05 a.m., TBA
and
WSC 1, sec. F12: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 1:00-2:25 p.m., Genie Giaimo

and

BIOL 112 Lab, sec. FAL 
TH, 9:40 a.m.-12:35 p.m., TBD 
and 
CHEM 3B Lab, sec. FA (NS), (1 s.h.) 
W, 2:40-5:30 p.m., TBD

or

BIOL 112 Lab, sec. FAL 
TH, 9:40 a.m.-12:35 p.m., TBD 
and 
CHEM 3B Lab, sec. FB (NS), (1 s.h.) 
TH, 2:40-5:30 p.m., Ronald Strothkamp

or

BIOL 112 Lab, sec. FBL 
T, 2:40-5:35 p.m., TBD 
and 
CHEM 3B Lab, sec. FA (NS), (1 s.h.) 
W, 2:40-5:30 p.m., TBD

or

BIOL 112 Lab, sec. FBL  
T, 2:40-5:35 p.m., TBD 
and 
CHEM 3B Lab, sec. FB (NS), (1 s.h.) 
TH, 2:40-5:30 p.m., Ronald Strothkamp

F13 (Total = 8-12 s.h.)

BIOL 112, sec. F13: General Biology I (NS, QR), (4 s.h.) 
T/TH, 11:20 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Russell Burke 
and
CHEM 3A, sec. F13: General Chemistry (NS, QR), (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 2:40-4:35 p.m., Mary Rooney

and

BIOL 112 Lab, sec. FCL  
F, 9:40 a.m.-12:35 p.m., TBD 
and 
CHEM 3B Lab, sec. FC (NS), (1 s.h.) 
M, 2:40-5:30 p.m., TBD

or

Health Sciences track 
BIOL 112 Lab, sec. FDL  
F, 2:40-5:35 p.m., TBD 
and 
CHEM 3B Lab, sec. FD (NS), (1 s.h.) 
F, 9:55 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Kevin Bisceglia 
and 
HPR 73, sec. F13: Framework and Design in Health Care (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 2:40 -4:05 p.m., Andrea Ault-Brutus 
and 
HPR 179U, sec. F13: Introduction to Health Sciences (1 s.h.) 
M, 10:00-10:55 a.m., TBD

F14: Health and Wellness (Total = 10 s.h.)
Understanding health and wellness and its impact on our communities in which we live and serve has never been more important. It is critical for the next generation of health care practitioners, clinicians, policymakers and advocates to possess a deep understanding of and appreciation for the importance of wellness, health promotion and disease prevention across the lifespan for all populations. Through an interdisciplinary approach, this cluster will provide students with a better understanding of health safety, disease risk reduction and prevention, community health, the importance of health professions professionals working as a team, and health-focused expository writing at both the college and professional levels.

Please note: This cluster is ideal for students majoring in Community Health, Exercise Physiology (Exercise Science and Allied Health concentration), and School of Health Sciences undecided majors. WSC 1 (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Students who receive transfer credit for WSC 1 can register for one of the clusters without the WSC 1 component. The Pre-Health Professions (PreP) living-learning community is a good option if you are interested in these clusters. Visit hofstra.edu/livelearn  for information.

EXPH 010, sec. F14: Contemporary and Historical Perspectives on Healthcare Reform  (3 s.h.) 
M/W, 9:40-11:05 a.m., Jayne Ellinger 
and
HPR 62, sec. F14: Personal and Community Health (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 11:20 a.m. -12:45 p.m., Sharon Phillips and Susan Knapp
and
HPR 179U, sec. F14: Introduction to Health Sciences (1 s.h.) 
T, 3:15-4:10 p.m., Isma Chaudhry
and
WSC 1, sec. F14: Composition (3 s.h.) 
T/TH, 4:20-5:45 p.m., Jacklyn Kuehn