Applied Studies

A maximum of 8 units of applied studies courses (APP) will be credited towards graduation degree requirements.

Lower-Division Course Descriptions

APP 1 General Research Instruction (1) An introduction to library research, resources and services intended to enhance the research skills of students. Course provides instruction in formulating search strategies, refining searches, locating materials in the physical and electronic collections, evaluating resources and web content, obtaining materials from outside libraries, and proper citation procedures. P/NC grading only.

APP 2 Successful Scholars Seminar (0) A non-credit workshop focusing on developing appropriate study skills and time management for the college environment.

APP 61 Introduction to Leadership (2) This survey course examines the historical and theoretical aspects of leadership as students explore leadership styles and foundational principles of Christ-centered leadership. The course lays the groundwork to equip students for leadership roles at Westmont and the larger community.

APP 62 Leadership Skills/Fieldwork (2) Prerequisite: APP 61. Based on the premise that leadership is a learned skill, students examine personal and interpersonal skills needed to be effective leaders (e.g., personal leadership style, commitment, collaboration, common purpose, problem-solving, conflict resolution, negotiation, team building, effective presentation skills). Each student is required to participate in a mentoring relationship. (To be taken while serving in some leadership capacity.)

APP 63 Issues and Case Studies in Leadership (2) Campus, institutional, civic, and community leaders address current issues and dilemmas they face in their particular leadership role. Each student is required to participate in a mentoring relationship. (To be taken while serving in some leadership capacity.)

APP 80 Career and Life Planning (1) Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. Designed to help students understand: (1) the occupational “landscape” in terms of changes in the way work is done and the shifting contexts in which it takes place, (2) the correlation between their key characteristics (personality, interests, skills, work-related values) and choices of career options, and (3) the ways in which those key characteristics are communicated to potential employers (through job search, interviewing, resume).

APP 85 Foundation of Residential Life (2) Study of student development theory and its application to college residential life program.

APP 90 The Inoculum: Wilderness/Orientation (1) A 10-day to two-week mountain wilderness trek in the Yosemite High Sierras offered prior to fall semester. Faculty and wilderness leaders join to create a rigorous program of wilderness activities while examining the nature of a Christian liberal arts and sciences education at Westmont. Students engage in backpacking, rock climbing, peak climbing, and navigation with map and compass. Readings, discussions, and papers aid students in more fully understanding their purpose in attending Westmont. Participants also receive 1 unit of PEA credit.

Upper-Division Course Descriptions

APP 168 Student Publications: Horizon (1-4) Semester-long course of experiential learning in news writing, and perhaps in editing, page layout and production of a student newspaper. The editor-in-chief may receive 4 units per semester, section editors may receive 2 units per semester, and other staff may receive 1 unit per semester.

APP 170 Student Publications: Citadel (1-4) Semester-long course of experiential learning in the design and production of Westmont’s yearbook. Course includes writing, editing, page layout and photography using InDesign and Photoshop. The editor may receive 4 units of credit, co-editors may receive 2 units of credit and other staff may receive 1 unit of credit. This course is only offered in fall semester.

APP 190 Internship (1-8) Supervised experience through local public or private agencies, businesses, medical facilities, schools, government agencies, non-profit or church organizations. Supervised by a professional in the field and the course instructor.