Fall Courses
Fall 2024 GPS Courses
Coming soon! (2024)
Click Below to Explore Courses
What are the benefits of a Living Learning Community?
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Connect to UCCS and live on the same floor in housing.
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Develop a strong sense of citizenship, community, and purpose.
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Participate in co-curricular experiences in your area of interest and beyond.
What will you gain from being a part of this program?
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Begin to build community and belonging through shared learning and at least three co-curricular experiences in a cohort model.
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Introduce students to a lasting community of peers, faculty, and campus contacts.
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Provide at least one opportunity for students to enhance career readiness through course planning activities or co-curricular experiences.
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Introduce students to campus resources such as the Career Center, Wellness Center, Office of Student Life, Kraemer Family Library, and Excel Centers.
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Guide students through beginning to establish academic, career, social, and wellness support networks on campus to meet the expectations of college and beyond through curriculum or co-curricular experiences.
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Plan and provide at least two meaningful cross-disciplinary connections in the course work of each LC linked course. If possible, provide students an opportunity to translate and apply learning experiences into new contexts.
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Provide at least one opportunity for respectful civil discourse through a curricular or co-curricular experience.
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Provide students at least one opportunity for collaboration and leadership development through a group project, event planning, etc.
For more information about the Residential Learning Community Program, please contact Jonathan DeWitt at jdewitt@uccs.edu
GPS 1010 Pathways Business: Career Collective (RLC)
Join us for a journey where we will examine the concepts, principles, and operations of business. We will explore how business strategies can help you explore, navigate, and develop a successful collegiate experience through the UCCS College of Business and beyond. Additionally, the Finding Your Way component of the course will incorporate intentional career exploration activities to help you truly discover or reconfirm your area of academic emphasis, major, or career goals. Making choices about the future is challenging, and our goal is to provide you with effective support that honors your personal and professional goals.
**Requirements: To participate in this GPS class, students must be a participant in the Career Collective RLC AND live on the designated floor (location TBD) within on-campus housing. Students will also have the option to participate in a spring 2024 linked course to continue their learning community experience, engagement, and support.
Thursday: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 027 / Jennifer Fisher, Beckie Pyles Munoz
GPS 1010 Pathways Healthcare (RLC)
Interested in the health sciences field? Whether you are majoring in a health science field, such as nursing, nutrition, human physiology, etc. or you just have an interest in helping or serving others in a health-related way, the Healthy Neighbors Living Learning Community (LLC) is for you! As a member of this RLC, you’ll take a common first-year course together, explore health-related programs/topics, participate in health-related activities, and live together as neighbors on the same floor. Open to first-year students living on campus for Fall 2023. You will participate as a cohort where you will:
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Connect to UCCS and live on the same floor in housing
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Develop a strong sense of citizenship, community, and purpose
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Participate in co-curricular experiences in your area of interest and beyond
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Take Gateway Program Seminar (GPS) Pathways: Healthcare*
**Requirements: To participate in this GPS class, students must be a participant in the Healthy Neighbors RLC and live on the designated floor (location TBD) within on-campus housing. Students will also have the option to participate in a spring 2024 linked course to continue their learning community experience, engagement, and support.
FRIDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 013 / Derek Wilson, Dan Deon
What will you gain from being a part of this program?
-
Begin to build community and belonging through shared learning and at least three co-curricular experiences in a cohort model.
-
Introduce students to a lasting community of peers, faculty, and campus contacts.
-
Provide at least one opportunity for students to enhance career readiness through course planning activities or co-curricular experiences.
-
Introduce students to campus resources such as the Career Center, Wellness Center, Office of Student Life, Kraemer Family Library, and Excel Centers.
-
Guide students through beginning to establish academic, career, social, and wellness support networks on campus to meet the expectations of college and beyond through curriculum or co-curricular experiences.
-
Plan and provide at least two meaningful cross-disciplinary connections in the course work of each LC linked course. If possible, provide students an opportunity to translate and apply learning experiences into new contexts.
-
Provide at least one opportunity for respectful civil discourse through a curricular or co-curricular experience.
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Provide students at least one opportunity for collaboration and leadership development through a group project, event planning, etc.
For more information about the Learning Community Program, please contact Jonathan DeWitt at jdewitt@uccs.edu
GPS 1010 PATHWAYS: HEALTHCARE (LC)
Explore the intersection of Nursing and the transition into college life at UCCS. Join us as we learn about the healthcare field with guest speakers, a tour of the Simulation center, and the UCCS cadaver lab! A small snapshot into the skills you’ll gain include: self-care, time management, responding to patients' emotional and psychological needs and teamwork!
**Requirements: Students in this GPS class will be required to participate in co-curricular activities outside of assigned classroom time such as: Service learning projects, student life activities, community events, and others. Students will also have the option to participate in a spring 2023 linked course to continue their learning community experience, engagement, and support.
FRIDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 040 / Jessica Kirby and Hazel Reyes
In this course, we will come alongside you and help identify your personal connection to the college experience and provide you guidance and pathways to meet your unique goals. We will help you find answers to questions you may have such as: What will I be good at? How do you know why you are taking the courses you are advised to take? How am I going to pay for being in college? Am I expected to automatically understand everything an instructor tells me? Is making friends this hard for everyone? Ultimately, you will learn that we will figure out what college is together. This course is for students accepted into the MOSAIC Gateway Program.
**Requirements: To participate in this GPS class, students must be a participant in a linked writing course (to register for this course please see your academic advisor). Students will also have the option to participate in a spring 2024 linked course to continue their learning community experience, engagement, and support.
TUESDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 007 / Instructors: Whitley Hadley, Eric Nissen
Do you know exactly what happens after a violent crime has been committed? Do you wonder how accurate popular television shows are in illustrating criminal investigations? In this course, you will learn about the criminal investigation process, modern techniques in crime scene investigation, and will explore high profile cases in the criminal justice system. This course is for Criminal Justice majors and is part of a learning community. Students will also be enrolled in CJ 1001: Introduction to Criminal Justice as part of the learning community.
MONDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 037 / Instructors: Anna Kosloski, Juan San Agustin, John Newsome
**Requirements: To participate in this GPS class, students must be a participant in a linked CJ course (to register for this course please see your academic advisor). Linked course: CJ 1001, Section 001
The focus of this course is to provide a clear connection between how food is grown and ways in which it is consumed. Being a first-year or transfer student can come with its own set of unique stressors. Food in many cases can be forgotten, much to the detriment of our physical, mental, and environmental health. This class offers practical skills and inspiring ideas to lead students towards the path of nutritious food choices. These healthy food choices are beneficial in terms of academic success, mental well-being, vitality, and environmental restoration.
MONDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 001 / Instructors: Sean Svette, Amanda Ericson / course CLOSED!
Denis Waitley put it best when he said, “Time and health are two precious assets that we don’t recognize and appreciate until they have been depleted.” This class is designed for students interested in sport, recreation, and wellness careers, as well as student-athletes. We focus on building life skills that translate across disciplines with a sport education model; to include setting positive and attainable goals, finding balance in and out of sports, giving back to the community, choosing healthy behaviors, building healthy relationships and personal and career development.
THURSDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 020 / Instructors: Cynthia Lewis, David Fehring / course CLOSED!
Plan a mission to Mars! Explore engineering, biology, biomechanics, psychology, and atmospheric & space flight through a mission to Mars. We will build gliders, explore aerodynamics and wind tunnels, rockets, and apply experimental principles to analyze problems and develop solutions for the mission. We include the human factors inherent in long space missions and learn key aspects necessary to long-term habitation of Mars.
WEDNESDAY: 10:50AM - 1:30PM / Section 011 / Instructors: Julie Albertson, Peter Gorder, Mary Weber
Click to learn more about a course
Exploration of the intersection of the mind and society with a focus on how we think, learn, and live. Topics of discussion are designed to investigate the role of ambiguity and complexity in the gray spaces of human endeavor. Specific areas of focus include: complex systems; virtual reality; the philosophy of nature and sustainability; the Nazi war, genocide and identity.
WEDNESDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 1010/016 and 3010/001 / Instructors: Joseph Kuzma, Karen DeVries, Sudhanshu Semwal
Please Note: This course is for University Honors students
Gandhi once said, “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” He was right, and in today’s world where heart disease, cancer, and strokes top the list of health concerns, the “helping professions” top the list of best jobs. In “Club Med,’ you’ll explore the opportunities the health sciences have to offer!
MONDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 021 / Instructors: Susan Davis, Timothy Stacey, Vicki Schober / course CLOSED!
Please Note: This course is for Nursing students only
CYBERSECURITY: FACTS, FICTION, AND FUN
FICTION: Cybersecurity is only for tech-oriented, computer nerds. FACT: Cybersecurity is for EVERYONE in EVERY major in EVERY career field! This non-technical, practical, FUN-filled career-oriented adventure will introduce cybersecurity terminology, practices, and tools. We will use hands-on activities and cyber-sleuthing as we explore cybersecurity from crime scenes to outer space! Most importantly, this course will explore the skills you need to develop to excel in college and beyond.
TUESDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / GPS 1010 Section 002 / Instructors: Dan Olsen, Terry Akse Johnson, Gretchen Bliss
This course is designed to help you transition smoothly into college, adjust gradually to the demands and rigor of university life, stay in college, and succeed, not only in college, but as you transition into a career field. As we approach our topic from many vantage points and speakers’ varied expertise and experiences, the emphasis is on holistic learning about higher education and UCCS.
THURSDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 002 / Instructors: Delynn Winters, Courtney Short / course CLOSED!
Please Note: This course is recommended for non-traditional students, including military
GPS Pathways: STEM is for students interested in science, engineering, or technology, whose goal is to enter the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences or another science discipline. This course helps you to develop the pieces of the puzzle in order to build the skills you need to succeed in future coursework. We will help you succeed in making your personal and professional dreams a reality!
FRIDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 003 / Instructors: Elise Naughton, Terry Geiger / course CLOSED!
Please Note: This section is recommended for students accepted into the University Studies program
Join us for a journey where we will examine the concepts, principles and operations of business. We will explore how business strategies can help you explore, navigate, and develop a successful collegiate experience through the UCCS College of Business and beyond. Additionally, the Finding Your Way component of the course will incorporate intentional career exploration activities to help you truly discover or reconfirm your area of academic emphasis, major, or career goals. Making choices about the future is challenging and our goal is to provide you with effective support that honors your personal and professional goals.
THURSDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 027 / Instructors: Jennifer Fisher, Beckie Pyles Munoz
Please Note: This course is a Residential Learning Community Course
This course is about empowering you to follow your own path to success in college and beyond. In this class, you will learn a deeper understanding of higher education by putting theory into action using self-reflection, group interaction and team exercises to explore pathways to careers. This course will challenge you to be creative and to interact with your peers and the broader UCCS community to grow both academically and professionally.
TUESDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 006 / Instructors: Dawna Haynes, Kristina Charfauros / course CLOSED!
THURSDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 008 / Instructors: Brett Fugate, Josie Smith / Chris Beiswanger
FRIDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 028 / Instructors: Angel Tran, Nicole Simmons-Rochon / course CLOSED!
Please Note: These sections are recommended for students accepted into the University Studies program
What does it mean to be happy? Does happiness really exist? What does it mean to live a meaningful and fulfilling life?
Does money bring happiness? These are just a few of the questions we will explore as we ask ourselves what it means to ‘be’ happy and how to avoid what author Russ Harris terms the ‘The Happiness Trap’. The pursuit of happiness—along with life and liberty—is, according to the Declaration of Independence, an unalienable right granted to all US citizens, which government is created to protect; yet some argue that this ideal is an illusion, a form of social control. Others suggest that happiness is a social construct, and that the obligation to be happy and the ‘happiness market’ are corporate inventions, which form the foundation of capitalist consumerism and are promoted by all forms of media. In this course we will discuss the psychology of happiness and what some scholars refer to as the pillars of happiness. Centering concepts of radical acceptance of body and mind, we will reflect on the cultural ideology of ‘positivity’ and its role in managing and allowing for the expression of grief, trauma, sadness and pain. Throughout the semester we will share specific tools that promote connection to self, others and the planet—such as creative expression, yoga, meditation and mindfulness—and help students incorporate wellness and self-care practices into their lives.
MONDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 009 / Instructors: Andrea Herrera, Eileen Skahill
Have you ever wondered what if…. What if I spoke to that person? What if I went on that roller coaster? What if I took that chance? To better understand our decision making during these moments and others, this course will explore thoughtful risk-taking, self-reflection, and emotional management. Join us through an experiential learning process as we reframe challenges, delve into new opportunities, and explore “what if…?”
WEDNESDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 005 / Instructors: Nicholas Lockwood, Stephanie Trujillo / course CLOSED!
This course focuses on building and developing skills that contribute to academic success and reflect what potential employers “want” from college students. Participating in this course involves experiencing university life and the origins of the workplace through role immersion gameplay, interacting with visiting faculty and local business professionals about emerging academic and professional trends, and engaging in service-learning opportunities
THURSDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 025 / Instructors: Angela Dodson, Aaron Doussett
In this course you will explore new aspects of the subcultures and different spaces of Colorado Springs. You will think about different perspectives on the city-- from the historical perspective, to outdoor living, to mainstream and alternative musical and arts scenes, and perhaps mainstream to alternative sports spaces. If you are interested in all things WEIRD, this class is for you!
FRIDAY: 10:50AM - 1:30PM / Section 015 / Instructors: Alexander Archuleta, Jonathan Christiansen / course CLOSED!
Our brains are amazing! In Make it Stick, we will explore learning and memory. We will study how to learn and ways to learn better. We will also investigate ways to study, build resilience, and work collaboratively with others.
MONDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 017 / Instructors: Janele Johnson, Sean Dean / course CLOSED!
Explore the magic of successfully navigating life as a college student! This course will examine the art and science of learning, honing your self-advocacy and academic skills, connecting with campus resources, building your networks, and navigating the technology and assignment expectations in college through the lens of the Harry Potter book series. Whether you are a fan of the wizarding world or have never been exposed, all students in any major and undecided are welcome to this section.
FRIDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 018 / Instructors: Sandy Ho, Michael Ferguson / course CLOSED!
LABORATORY RETRIEVERS: FETCHING NEW INFORMATION
How is new knowledge created? What do professors do with all their time away from class? Join us and learn this and ways YOU can help faculty push the boundary of what is known! We will explore the different types of research and creative works students engage in under the guidance of a faculty mentor as well as researcher ethics, skills, and identity. Our undergraduate students that engage in research or creative works are 35% more likely to graduate, they have 25% higher GPAs, and are 2X more likely to attend graduate school (Undergraduate Research Academy Data, 2020). Let’s learn about how to make the most out of your time as a college student!
TUESDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 019 / Instructors: Jennifer Poe, Deanna Johnson / course CLOSED!
Denis Waitley put it best when he said, “Time and health are two precious assets that we don’t recognize and appreciate until they have been depleted.” This class is designed for students interested in sport, recreation, and wellness careers, as well as student-athletes. We focus on building life skills that translate across disciplines with a sport education model; to include setting positive and attainable goals, finding balance in and out of sports, giving back to the community, choosing healthy behaviors, building healthy relationships and personal and career development.
THURSDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 020 / Instructors: Chrissie Bailey, David Fehring
Please Note: This course is a Learning Community Course
Sport Center looks at sports through a social science lens – examining sport from communication, economic, psychological and sociological perspectives. We will explore: How does the mindset of an exceptional athlete differ from the rest of us? What motivates fandom? What role do sports play in the economy? Do we have too much invested in our sports idols? How are sports reflective of culture? This course is for both the casual and die-hard fan as we learn about the role sports play in society
THURSDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 023 / Instructors: Majid Arjomandi, James Gromelski, Nicolas Cantrell / course CLOSED!
This course will examine the relationship between self and the environment. How does the place we live affect us? How have people changed the environment of Colorado? This class will be organized around field trips and outdoor activities (including an overnight camping trip), readings, discussions, group work, a service project, and presentations that help us reflect upon our place in Colorado and how we and others interact with it.
Wednesday: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 024 / Instructors: Christopher Ertman, Telma Frumholtz / course CLOSED!
FINDING A VOICE: EMPOWERED COMMUNICATION, SERVICE, AND PUBLIC SPEAKING
Communication is at the center of many of our most valuable life experiences. Have you ever wanted to share an idea but just didn’t know how to go about it professionally and passionately? Do you want to make an impact locally or globally but just don’t know where to start? Are you interested in learning about how to serve effectively in the community and participate in service-learning projects with local nonprofit organizations? Would you like to learn how to be an advocate for yourself or others? Have you ever been excited or nervous for a speech? Finding A Voice incorporates all of this and more, by helping students develop empowered communication skills through Public Speaking!
WEDNESDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 026 / Instructors: Cathryn Supplee, Lindsey McCormick, Majid Arjomandi
This GPS course is about to get LIT. We welcome anyone interested in learning about either (or both!) incorporating physical activity into your own life as a college student, or those interested in a field of health and wellness. This class is "low intensity" meaning we will explore the surface of different academic disciplines and physical activities. All abilities and previous experiences are welcomed (even if it means you have no previous exercise experience).
TUESDAY: 8:00 AM - 10:40 AM / Section 029 / Instructors: Emily Kulakowski, Jessica Kirby / course CLOSED!
Have you ever seen a new product or service and thought to yourself: “Why didn’t I think of that?” This course can help you take control of your destiny. You’ll learn the “how to’s” of entrepreneurism: how to market your idea, how to run your business, how to understand your customers, how to get others excited to work for you, and how to grow the money you make.
MONDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 030 / Instructors: Laketia Johnson, Zachary Baker / course CLOSED!
Are you interested in learning about managing and restoring the forest environment near Colorado Springs? This course focuses on balancing the ecology of a sustainable forest with the needs of human users. Through lectures and field studies, you will investigate the relationship between climate change, human influences, political perspectives, and the financial issues of forest management.
WEDNESDAY: 8:00 AM - 10:40 AM / Section 031 / Instructors: Julie Albertson, Keith Worley, Nicole Juhl
This course will examine the topic of homicide in the United States, the nature and causes of American violent crime, the role of guns and handgun legislation, and the role of the media in shaping public policy and public opinion. It also examines the policy and legal controversies surrounding the application of punishments for homicide. Students will tour correctional facilities, meet with legal and criminal justice officials who deal with America’s most violent offenders, and engage in debates on the death penalty, wrongful convictions, causes of violent offending and the impact of violence on communities. This course is for students interested in Criminal Justice.
THURSDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 032 / Katrina Cathcart, John Barnett / course CLOSED!
HISTORIES, MYSTERIES, AND SPRING'S NECESSITIES
Whether you were born and raised in Colorado Springs, or are brand new to the community, it’s the secrets of the springs that create the city’s histories, mysteries and one of the most exciting places in Colorado.
WEDNESDAY: 1:40 PM- 4:20 PM / Section 033 / Instructors: Stephen Cucchiara, Jenifer Furda / course CLOSED!
TRAVEL LOG: TO UCCS AND BEYOND!
A first-generation college student embarks on her journey to the intergalactic university only to find her transport ship overtaken by space-travelling cephalopods. A scholar of early English Literature learns how to use a new tool and discovers a new vision of the world. These are but two of the journeys you will encounter in this course as you reflect on your own personal voyage and chart your course for UCCS success.
Diario de Viaje: a UCCS y más Allá de Graduación
Un estudiante universitario de primera generación se embarca en su viaje a la universidad intergaláctica solo para encontrar su nave de transporte superada por cefalópodos que viajan por el espacio. Un alumno aprende a usar una nueva herramienta y descubre otra visión del mundo. Un recién llegado explora su entorno con la ayuda de un reloj inteligente. Estos son solo tres de los viajes que seguiremos mientras reflexionamos sobre nuestros viajes personales y trazamos nuestro curso para tener éxito en UCCS.
TUESDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 034 / Instructors: Rebecca Laroche, Helen Davies
Please Note: This course is recommended for first-generation students
Students arrive to the college experience wide-eyed and insecure. For many, failure is an assignment away. Finding your true north helps students to discover what is important to their academic, social, and personal wellness so that they are ready to meet challenges head on.
THURSDAY: 10:50 AM-1:30 PM / Section 035 / Instructors: Sharon Simpson-Dogon, Laketia Johnson
Course looks at the role health care professionals play in being change-makers for social justice issues both within and outside healthcare.
WEDNESDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM/ Section 036 / Instructors: Tisha Mendiola Jessop, Morgen Thomas / course CLOSED!
Strong roots grow powerful trees. This course is specifically designed for recipients of the Launching Integrity, Values, and Excellence in Leadership (LIVE) scholarship. Through dynamic weekly sessions and an epic field trip guaranteed to excite, you will uncover your unique leadership abilities and connect with opportunities to lead on the UCCS campus and in the community.
TUESDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM/ Section 039 / Instructors: Sloan Gonzales, Noelle San Souci
Please Note: This class is for LIVE Leadership scholarship recipients
The goal of the class is for students to learn basic programming skills in a fun and enjoyable way. This class is intended for students with little to no programming experience. Students will learn how to build a LEGO EV3 robot with sensors and motors. Robot construction plans are provided, but creativity is encouraged. Students will then learn to write programs to control the robot using the RobotC programming language.
TUESDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 004 / Instructors: Leslie Tekamp / course CLOSED!
THURSDAY: 1:40PM - 4:20 PM / Section 038/ Instructors: Leslie Tekamp
This course takes a broad-based look at gaming/poker theory and applications of statistical analytics to real-life situations. The purpose of this class will be to foster an environment for the study of poker and game theory, develop the basic strategies and advanced foundation for decision-making in poker and life, and provide an understanding of the current poker environment and how students might leverage talent for poker in their future careers.
TUESDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 044 / Instructors: Cynthia Norton, Justin Cole / course CLOSED!
Social Work Superheroes make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities by working to develop a fair and just society. This course includes meaningful coursework and field trips highlighting the ways real world superheroes can impact the lives others. This course is intended for social work majors
TUESDAY: 4:45 PM-7:20 PM / Section 045 / Instructors: Catherine Barrios, Kim Sannes
Thursday: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 046 / Instructors: Ann Schwab / course CLOSED!
In this course you will learn what it means to be a student at UCCS and how to be academically, personally, and professionally successful. You will learn more about yourself to create a meaningful life and a meaningful experience while at UCCS. You will be engaged in a series of assessments and activities over the course of the semester so that, by the end of the semester, you will be able to answer the questions: “Who am I?”, “Where do I come from?”. “Where do I want to go?”, “What do I want to do?”, “What is my purpose?”, and “What is a meaningful life?”
THURSDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 047/ Instructors: Amanda Garcia, Heather Gardner / course CLOSED!
Think “The View” meets GPS. In this class, we will have candid conversations about the most significant and challenging topics facing today’s college students. As Whoopi Goldberg says, “Take a little time and enjoy the view!”
Monday: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / Section 048 / Instructors: Alex Baker, Daniella Trujillo
What are you hungry for? Food? Passion? Success? Food for the body is not enough. There must be food for the soul. Come explore ways to feed yourself, feed others and feed the community. This course will provide opportunities for you to engage in creative ways to eat, connect, explore, and feed the inspiration from within.
WEDNESDAY: 8:00 AM- 10:40AM / Section 049 / Instructors: Andrea Baker, Deborah O’Connor / Alan Wong course CLOSED!
PROFESSIONS IN HEALTH SCIENCES
Explore the field of health sciences through interactive sessions in a variety of heath science-related settings. In this class students will gain the skills necessary to be successful in a high-demand major while discovering careers in health science.
FRIDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / Section 43 / Instructors: Gina Burton, Paige Whitney / course CLOSED!
They say, "There is no elevator to success; you have to take the stairs." This course is about the ups and downs of academics in college. Some new students are surprised to find themselves struggling to get organized. Some notice their assignment deadlines whizzing by... after the fact. Some are reluctant to talk with their instructors, even when that's exactly what they need to do. This seminar will help you to be more reflective and purposeful about your own academic choices. You will learn how to elevate your success by becoming your own advocate, organizing your time, and stepping up to all the academic challenges you face.
THURSDAY: 1:40 PM - 4:20 PM / Section 042 / Instructors: Ida Dilwood, Steve Linhart / course CLOSED!
Join our community and grab your passport for some exploring! In this course you will learn how exploring different languages, cultures, and identities can enhance your college journey and catapult you around the world and further in your career! You do not need to be pursuing a language or have a passion for traveling to join this class, but having either is a bonus! This course is also designated and designed specifically to support first-year students who will be the first in their families to complete a bachelor’s degree, also known as first-generation students. Students will gain knowledge of the structure and expectations of college, and further, this course will help students establish a sense of belonging and community while exploring personal purpose and passions.
¡Ven a formar parte de nuestra comunidad y trae tu pasaporte porque vamos a explorar! En este curso, tú vas a expandir tu visión del mundo y vas a aprender cómo el explorar diferentes idiomas, culturas e identidades puede mejorar tu experiencia universitaria y lanzarte al mundo, contribuyendo a la vez a tu carrera profesional. No es necesario que quieras aprender otro idioma o que te fascine viajar para inscribirte en esta clase, pero si así es, ¡mucho que mejor! Esta clase está también designada y diseñada específicamente para dar apoyo a los estudiantes de primer año que serán los primeros en sus familias en completar una carrera universitaria, a quienes se les conoce como estudiantes de primera generación. Los estudiantes adquirirán conocimientos sobre la estructura y las expectativas de la universidad y más. Este curso ayudará a los estudiantes a aprender sobre los recursos disponibles en el campus y a establecer un sentido de pertenencia y comunidad mientras exploran sus propósitos personales y las cosas que les apasiona hacer.
WEDNESDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / GPS 1010, Section 052 / Instructors: Jesse Perez, Carmen Frank
Please Note: This course is recommended for first-generation students
Click to learn more about a course. Online courses do not participate in Gateway Days
This course is designed to help you transition smoothly into college, adjust gradually to the demands and rigor of university life, stay in college, and succeed, not only in college, but as you transition into a career field. As we approach our topic from many vantage points and speakers’ varied expertise and experiences, the emphasis is on holistic learning about higher education and UCCS.
ONLINE / Section 3010 OL1 / Instructors: Rhea Taylor / course CLOSED!
This course is recommended for non-traditional students including Military; This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
EXPLORING THE WORLD THROUGH DOCUMENTARIES
This course will explore a weekly theme relating to pop culture, major historical events, political ideologies and musical subcultures such as punk rock, hip hop and heavy metal. Each week we will view a documentary relating to that week’s theme and analyze the major arguments of the film. We will explore how these subjects interact with one another and continue to impact the world we live in today. This course will meet exclusively online and will include a weekly documentary to view and analyze in order to facilitate thinking about a broad range of perspectives.
ONLINE / Section OL2 / Instructors: Alexander Archuleta / course CLOSED!
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
Each semester is a new opportunity to learn more about yourself; but what is at your core? In this course you will look into what drives you and gives you purpose. Alongside practical ways to succeed in college, you will learn that your “why” is as critical to your college experience as the journey itself.
ONLINE / Section OL3 / Instructors: Lori Salgado / course CLOSED!
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
DISNEY: HISTORY OF THE PARKS, MAN, AND MEDIA GIANT
This course surveys and critically analyzes a major popular culture influencer, Disney. Beginning with the origins of Walt Disney and Disney Pixar and ending with Banksy’s 2015 critical theme park, Disneyland, this course enlightens multiple perspectives and interpretations of Disney and Disney’s sociocultural influence since the 1930s. This course allows learners to engage and analyze with Disney films through a historical perspective. Using fairy tales, myths, and literature, the true origins of Disney’s inspirations are revealed, and some are quite different than the story Disney animated for mass American consumption.
ONLINE / Section OL5 / Instructors: Sydney Pearson / course CLOSED!
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
Quicksand can be hard to spot and can trap and hold the unsuspecting. What are the moments in your life when you have felt stuck? Caught in a narrative that does not work for you? Through an interactive and dialogue-based approach, this class will challenge you to explore social power dynamics in America. This class looks at how societal norms are created and maintained in this culture. Students will use their personal voice and story to make meaning on the ways dominant narrative shapes their lives.
ONLINE / Section OL7 / Instructors: Claire Ami, Lindsey Duthrie
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
THE TRANSFORMATIVE POTENTIAL OF ART
This interactive course examines Art & Music as catalysts of personal and social transformation. Students will research social, political, and historical contexts of select works to gain insight on their short- and long-term effects. Essential to this understanding is learning how to critically and articulately discuss, write, and communicate about Art & Music.
ONLINE / Section OL4 / Instructors: Amy Anderson
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
Looking for something to do this weekend? How about a trip with friends next summer? This course will explore fun things to do in Colorado Springs but also along the Front Range corridor of Colorado. This area has so much to offer, from hiking, biking, camping and white water rafting to museums, art galleries, amusement parks and entertaining festivals. This class will explore things to do with friends, family or even by yourself. Through research opportunities, group activities, service learning projects and sharing personal experiences you will discover how to LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE!!!!!
ONLINE / Section OL8 / Instructors: Rhea Taylor
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
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META MAJORS: HUMANITIES
Meta-Majors are collections of academic majors that have related courses. Meta-Majors cluster groups of majors that fit within a career area. Through this course you will select an area of study and explore different careers and majors related to that focus.
MONDAY-FRIDAY: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM / 8.15.22 - 8.19.22 / Section 010 / Instructors: Marcelle Hureau, Lina Rawlings / course CLOSED!
Please Note: This course is an intensive one-week pre-term course.
NAVIGATING THE COLLEGE WILDERNESS
Starting college is the beginning of a new adventure for you and those around you. The Gateway Program Seminar’s aim is to help prepare you for some expectations that this new adventure will have for you so that you can be as successful in achieving your objectives as possible. This course’s theme is a metaphor we are using to help you discover the possibilities and opportunities of an as yet unexplored territory called “college.” This includes preparing for this new experience by gathering some new tools such as the technologies you’ll need and learning about the requirements of the course. Then you’ll start practicing for your adventure by plotting your path forward at UCCS: you will establish personal and academic goals and find the people that you’ll need to help you throughout your time at UCCS. Finally, you’ll explore the wilderness! You’ll locate a place that’s new to you (a hike, a museum, a local spot) and use all of your new skills, tools, and resources to craft a researched paper and reflective presentation.
ONLINE (Late-Start) / 10.18.22-12.17.22 / Section OL1 / Instructors: Leslie Rapparlie
Please Note: This online course is a late start Session B course and begins mid-semester. This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
BASICS TO JOB MARKET NAVIGATION
Description: This GPS course will introduce career exploration for students, helping them to navigate the process of resume and cover letter writing, virtual and in-person interviewing, career exploration, and other initiatives used to mitigate bias in the hiring process. Students will map a more efficient job search process through direct instruction, reflection, practical application, and peer/instructor feedback. By the end of the course, students will have a portfolio and experiences to reference as they navigate the job market.
Late Start Course--MONDAY: 10:50 AM - 1:30 PM / 10.18.22-12.17.22 / Section HO2 / Instructors: Omar Montoya, Cody Chambless / course CLOSED!
Please Note: This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
Meta-Majors are collections of academic majors that have related courses. Meta-Majors cluster groups of majors that fit within a career area. Through this course you will select an area of study and explore different careers and majors related to that focus.
MONDAY-FRIDAY: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM / 8.14.22 - 8.18.22 / Section 012 Instructors: Margaret Scott, Olsen Solveig
Please Note: This course is an intensive one-week pre-term course.
WRITING: CAMPUS, COMMUNITY, AND COLORADO SPRINGS
Are you someone who dwells in magical worlds, powerful memories, or poetic moments of inspiration? If so this one-week course will introduce you to intellectual curiosity, analytical reading, creativity, and listening skills through three genres of creative writing: fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. We will explore creative prompts and assignments that ask you to become familiar with campus culture and your place in it, including (but not limited to) pondering architecture and landscape through sound and imagery. We will also investigate our personal identities through self-reflection and a variety of contemporary readings from flash fiction to personal narrative to spoken word poems. Through peer-review and revision in our writing workshop, you will apply your learning and refine your individual craft in creative writing. Let's work together to get your creative dreams down on the page and connect you to exciting writing opportunities on campus!
MONDAY-FRIDAY: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM / 8.14.22 - 8.18.22 / Section 041 Instructors: Martin Salgado, Sheldon Gaskell
Please Note: This course is an intensive one-week pre-term course.
Riddle me this: Do you have a brain or are you a brain? Let’s say you have brain transplant with your BFF. Now your brain is in their body and vice versa. Which person is the real you? Your brain with a different person’s body or your body with a different brain? Did you figure it out or did I just blow your mind?? This course is designed to get you thinking. From demystifying optical illusions to navigating the hidden curriculum in college, this life kit course will inspire you to think outside the box and towards your future! So, are you ready for some Brain Games?
ONLINE (Late Start) / 8.22.22 - 12.17.22 / Section OL6 / Instructors: Lori Salgado
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
LET'S KICK THE TIRES AND LIGHT THE FIRES
Human nature drives us to push harder, learn more, and be the best. We all want to stand out in our own ways. This course focuses on exploring who we are, the people and places that made us, and how we will pursue our dreams to enable us to be the best of the best!
PRE-TERM INTENSIVE / 8.14.22 - 8.18.22 / Section 050 / Instructors: Curtis Turner, Josie Smith
Please Note: This course is an intensive one-week pre-term course.
We all have monsters hiding underneath our bed, and maybe for you that monster is college. Horror has long been a genre that explores our anxieties concerning identity, religion, technology, difference/otherness, and environment, among other topics. This course will consider the transition to college life through the lens of horror studies, examining the various monsters you may encounter on campus in order to foster your critical thinking, connection with other students, and sense of community at UCCS. If the Final Girl is the triumphant survivor of many popular horror stories, then this class will empower you to be the Final Girl of your college experience.
THURSDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM /10.18.22-12.17.22 /Section HO1/ Instructors: Cody Parish, DeJae Spears
Please Note: This course is a late start Session B course and begins mid-semester. This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
University life can be overwhelming, especially as personal and academic responsibilities begin to pile up. Fortunately, you have what it takes to achieve success. This course prepares you for success within and beyond university by exposing you to habits, skills, and resources you can begin utilizing immediately. You will learn habits of mind that support stress reduction and time management; key academic skills related to reading, note taking, studying, and test taking; how to use campus resources to guide your academic and overall wellbeing; and functional ways to improve life skills, including financial, career, and culinary literacy
MONDAY: 4:45 PM - 7:20 PM / 10.18.22-12.17.22 / Section HO3 / Instructors: Cody Chambless, Zachary Barker
This course does not participate in Gateway Days.
University life can be overwhelming, especially as personal and academic responsibilities begin to pile up. Fortunately, you have what it takes to achieve success. This course prepares you for success within and beyond university by exposing you to habits, skills, and resources you can begin utilizing immediately. You will learn habits of mind that support stress reduction and time management; key academic skills related to reading, note taking, studying, and test taking; how to use campus resources to guide your academic and overall wellbeing; and functional ways to improve life skills, including financial, career, and culinary literacy
ONLINE Late-Start/ 10.18.22-12.16.22 / Section OL8 / Instructors: Marcelle Hureau
Please Note: This online course is a late start Session B course and begins mid-semester. This course does not participate in Gateway Days.