Master of Science in Environmental Science and Ecology

at State University of New York College at Brockport USA

The study of philosophy is excellent preparation for a career in any field that requires clear, analytical thinking, writing, and speaking, including law, government, teaching and education, the ministry, business and management, publishing, and many other fields. Philosophy is traditionally considered the premier major for those planning to apply to law school. Philosophy majors score on average significantly higher on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) than do the majors in any of the humanities or social sciences, including political science, history, and English; and philosophy majors on average are accepted to law school at higher rates than are students majoring in many other popular pre-law fields. Philosophy is also an excellent double major.

The Department of Philosophy sponsors the College's chapter of Phi Sigma Tau, the International Honors Philosophy Society, which recognizes student academic excellence. The Department also operates the Center for Philosophic Exchange, which sponsors free public guest lectures on campus by distinguished philosophers and publishes the on-line journal, Philosophic Exchange.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Present a philosophical problem, by (1) concisely and precisely stating a philosophical problem to be resolved by an argument or essay, (2) explaining why the problem is significant, (3) explaining the scope of the problem, (4) defining any terms necessary for understanding the problem.
• Explicate the meaning of a philosophical theory by (1) correctly deducing the logical implications of that theory, (2) describing those implications in terms of specific examples, (3) recognizing when another statement or theory contradicts the relevant theory explicitly, (4) recognizing when another statement or theory contradicts the relevant theory implicitly.
• Demonstrate understanding of evidence by (1) correctly stating what counts as relevant evidence for a philosophical position, (2) correctly stating what counts as relevant evidence against the argument for a philosophical position and recognizing that evidence as such, (3) explaining why any cited evidence is relevant or irrelevant to a philosophical position, (4) distinguishing evidentiary claims about a philosophical position from rhetorically persuasive but specious claims about a philosophical position.
• Demonstrate knowledge of logic, by (1) recognizing arguments, (2) constructing good arguments, (3) evaluating arguments, (4) avoiding fallacies (e.g. begging the question).
• Demonstrate knowledge of dialectical method in philosophy, by (1) formulating possible objections to the thesis of an essay, (2) formulating possible objections to the argument for the essay's thesis, (3) responding to possible objections to the essay's thesis by showing that they are mistaken, (4) responding to possible objections to the argument for the essay's thesis by showing that they are mistaken.

The bachelor of arts or bachelor of science in liberal studies degrees provide a wide range of educational options leading to an individualized educational program. The required seminar courses are offered online and through independent study while the electives may be completed online, hybrid or in a traditional classroom. The program focuses on social sciences, natural sciences, humanities/fine arts, and an individualized area of research.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Student learning outcomes (SLOs) for Liberal Studies students must be understood in the context of a multidisciplinary program with no prescribed core of specific courses (although there is a core of prescribed disciplinary categories), considerable variation in courses making up each Liberal Studies candidate's plan of study (POS), and each student's differing personal and professional goals. Nevertheless, a number of SLOs are expected for all Liberal Studies candidates. These include:

• Contributors to Knowledge – Examine the unique perspective of the arts and humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences as contributors to knowledge.
• Multidisciplinary Nature of Knowledge – Analyze the multidisciplinary nature of knowledge, and assess the value of a multidisciplinary approach to scholarship.
• Self and Nature within Contemporary Society – Provide examples of the way in which insights and methodologies from the arts and humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences contribute to an understanding of one's self and nature within contemporary society.
• Knowledge Skills and Application – Assess interrelationships between areas of knowledge and skill within the Plan of Study, illustrate how these areas provide an integrated holistic overview.
• Critical Reasoning – Use critical reasoning skills to evaluate and synthesize knowledge from different disciplinary perspectives.
• Effective Communication – Employ effective communication skills through coherent and well-organized written and verbal presentations.

The Kinesiology major (56 credits) is an undergraduate option that permits the student to individualize a course of study from several academic offerings in the Department of Kinesiology, Sport Studies and Physical Education. The Kinesiology major is intended for the student who desires greater flexibility in choosing courses related to the study of human movement and physical activity, but is not interested in a specific professional major. The program of study chosen can prepare the student for graduate work in a specific discipline or degree program in human movement science (e .g. sport philosophy, history of sport, biomechanics, sport psychology, motor behavior, or other related areas) or allied health fields (e.g. physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, athletic training), or pursue careers in fitness or sport development. Students majoring in Kinesiology are required to complete a 43-credit academic core and a 9-credit elective pool in consultation with a major advisor.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Students will be able to explain physiological, kinesiological, and biomechanical principles related to physical activity.
• Students will be able to evaluate the socio-cultural and historical context of physical activity.
• Students will be able to explain psychological and motor behavior principles related to physical activity.
• Students will be able to explain physical activity's importance for health, wellness, and quality of life.
• Students will be able to analyze philosophic issues and arguments related to physical activity.
• Students will be able to exhibit the skills required for proficient performance in physical activity.

The profession of social work is dedicated to preventing and solving social problems, whether they involve individuals, families, small groups, organizations, or communities. A broad range of employment opportunities exist. Social workers are found in hospitals, public schools, family agencies, industry, courts, probation departments, government facilities, children’s agencies, and in facilities that serve persons with disabilities. The Department of Social Work is committed to excellence in preparing ethical and competent professional social workers who foster the well-being of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Through teaching, service, and scholarship, the department promotes civic engagement in diverse societies. The faculty assigned to the undergraduate program at the College is committed to excellence in preparing students with the knowledge, values and skills necessary for generalist social work practice, as well as informed and involved citizenship. The undergraduate major in social work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Graduates who continue with their social work education may gain advanced standing in graduate programs because of the accredited status of the major.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior
• Engage diversity and difference in practice
• Advance human rights, and social, economic and environmental justice
• Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice
• Engage in policy practice
• Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
• Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
• Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
• Evaluate practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities

SUNY Brockport's Theatre program is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre.

In an alliance with Geva Theatre Center, Rochester's leading professional theatre, professionals teach at the College, a Directing Fellow directs an annual production at Brockport, and theatre students enjoy increased opportunities to participate in internships, and to attend Geva productions.

The Department of Theatre and Music Studies is committed to providing its students with theatre training within a liberal arts environment. The department is focused on student learning acquired through classes and productions as its highest priority, and is dedicated to upholding the integrity of theatre as it fosters an artistic environment that nurtures developing theatre artists, scholars and technicians. Theatre education is relevant in many applications and is useful to people in many different occupations.

The department is committed to sustaining a vital artistic synergy with the surrounding community and the greater society through productions and other theatrical and musical presentations by its students, faculty and guest artists.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Analyze and discuss theatrical activity within an historical perspective
• Analyze and research a theatrical text
• Apply critical thinking skills to the discipline of theatre
• Discuss a broad range of dramatic literature
• Apply skill in the craft of theatre/creation/production
• Collaborate in the creation/production of theatre
• Apply appropriate theatrical protocol

The 36-credit Master of Arts in Dance is a graduate program that offers students an opportunity to focus on intensive scholarly study in dance. Students may also develop an interdisciplinary focus in dance/movement studies, which might include coursework and research in areas such as theatre, music studies, recreation and leisure studies, health and wellness, or women/gender studies.

While at Brockport, graduate students may perform in faculty and guest artist work, choreograph their own work, or assist in directing departmental touring performances. They may also travel to regional/national conferences and festivals; to countries with complimentary foreign study programs such as Ghana, England, Brazil or Norway; or to New York and other locations for approved and credited apprenticeships, internships or dance study.

Upon completion of their degrees, Brockport MA students go on to become college and university faculty; PreK-12 teachers; performers and choreographers; dance administrators; private studio directors; independent movement practitioners; and teaching artists.  Others pursue doctoral degrees in dance or related fields.

The Department of Dance offers an MA in Dance, or an MFA in dance. The Department of Dance seeks to provide a rigorous and nurturing environment for the development of artists, scholars, choreographers, and educators. We support creativity through conceptualization and performance.

The department has some of the best dance facilities in the country, including its own fully equipped 300-seat proscenium dance theater, a 270-seat large-space studio theater, five studios, a body-conditioning lab, and computerized music and design studios. Faculty and professional staff are nationally and internationally recognized in their areas of expertise and are leaders in professional organizations such as CORD, NASD and NDEO. SUNY Brockport is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Dance.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Apply artistry and individual expressivity across a range of movement aesthetics.
• Embody physical mastery of a variety of contemporary dance idioms.
• Generate and design choreography that demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of compositional tools and aesthetic framework.
• Articulate a critical understanding of aesthetics regarding dance styles through dance making, and/or oral and written forms.
• Summarize and synthesize concepts regarding history, aesthetics, and culture of dance.
• Identify and investigate an individual research agenda in creative and/or written scholarship.
• Situate individual interests in the context of the larger dance field.
• Exhibit appropriate professional conduct throughout choreographic process, performance, collaboration, and production.

The Department of Dance at SUNY Brockport seeks to provide a rigorous and nurturing environment for the development of artists, scholars, choreographers, and educators. We support creativity through conceptualization and performance. The Department of Dance comprises artists, scholars, and educators who train dancers on the graduate and undergraduate level for a wide variety of careers in the arts.

The department has some of the best dance facilities in the country, including its own fully equipped proscenium dance theater, a large-space studio theater, five studios, a body-conditioning lab, costume and scene shops, and computerized music and design studios. Faculty and professional staff are nationally and internationally recognized in their areas of expertise and are leaders in professional organizations such as CORD, NASD and NDEO.

Undergraduates with a strong foundation of dance training are invited to participate in the program by auditioning to enroll as dance majors or minors in the BA or BS programs, and are eligible to apply to the BFA program in the second semester. Additionally, the department offers three graduate degrees, and serves a large number of students through courses that fulfill General Education requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Apply artistry through qualitative and rhythmic phrasing, dynamic range & individual expressivity.
• Embody consistently clear physical knowledge, movement accuracy and technical expertise of contemporary dance idioms.
• Create choreography that integrates imaginative and structural concepts.
• Articulate an understanding of aesthetics through dance-making and/or oral and written forms.
• Analyze human movement from varied theoretical and experiential perspectives.
• Identify individual interests and abilities in order to situate within the larger dance field.
• Exhibit appropriate professional conduct throughout choreographic process, performance, collaboration, and production.

Our program will help you develop foreign language skills and cross-cultural competencies. You will also have opportunities to participate in an international exchange program and complete an internship to gain exposure on a global stage.  

The AACSB-accredited International Business Major provides an interdisciplinary education combining core courses in business and advanced courses in international business as well as courses in foreign language, culture, and opportunities for participation in study abroad and foreign internship. Graduates gain knowledge and skills for careers in business and other organizations with international operations. The program also prepares students for graduate study.

Students interested in business studies may also wish to consider the College's majors in accounting, business administration, finance and marketing.

What You’ll Learn

Our interdisciplinary degree in International Business equips you with in-depth knowledge and understanding of international business, marketing, finance, and economics. It will prepare you for a career in business anywhere in the world.

This dual certification major is designed to prepare students for initial certification in both Biology and Student with Disabilities (SWD)-Generalist in grades 7 to 12, with extension to teach Biology in grades 5 and 6. In addition, this major prepares students for the Content Specialty Tests (CSTs) required for the dual certification.

The major in Biology Adolescence Inclusive (7-12) Education with Grades 5 and 6 Extension includes 43 credits of EDI (Education and Human Development), and 57-58 credits to complete the Biology Content Core. This curriculum meets the requirements for initial dual certification as outlined by The New York State Education Department (SED) for Adolescent Education (grades 5 through 12).

What You’ll Learn

This dual certification major is designed to prepare students for initial certification in both Biology and Student with Disabilities (SWD)-Generalist in grades 7-12 with extension to teach Biology in grades 5-6.

In addition, this major prepares students for the Content Specialty Tests (CSTs) required for the dual certification.

Chemistry is used in fields as varied as medical and criminal investigations, pollution remediation or conservation, and preserving cultural treasures including rare books and documents and fine art.

Our chemistry degree will give you a foundation in organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry to prepare you for a wide range of careers. With electives, you can build on these bases and tailor your education to your goals.