The course introduces students to the study of human behavior within organizations. The class discusses organizational and management theories of organizational high performance and uses case studies and exercises to help participants acquire a deep hands-on understanding of the concepts. Topics include
organizational structure and culture, informal structures, organizational change, group dynamics, leadership, power, motivation, and corporate social responsibility.

The course reviews and discusses key local and global developments in the history of mankind that have led to the present-day world as we know it. The course covers focal points in history since the 15th century from the viewpoint and intersections of military, political, economic, social, cultural, and intellectual history. Topics begin in the early modern period and end with the beginning of the current millennium: from the so-called great geographical discoveries, the invention of the printing press, and Machiavelli’s writings through the age of political, social, and technological revolutions, the world wars of the 20th century and leading works of modern philosophical thought. The history and impact of imperialism, decolonization, globalization, and technological advancement will be discussed through exploring the past of states, societies, and individuals. Special attention will also be paid to the evolution of political thought, governance, and human rights, as well as issues related to technology, labor, and the public space of our days. Students will also be introduced to the scientific methods employed by the discipline of history, as well as taught how to critique and use primary and secondary sources, compile bibliographies, compose analytical reviews, etc.

The course aims to provide all students with a solid understanding of and proficiency in the basic speaking and writing skills required for our success as citizens and aspiring professionals. As a basis of thoughtful and effective written and verbal communication, students will be taught how to select appropriate sources, develop useful reading strategies and habits, and analyze and critique intellectually challenging materials. Course content will focus on the collection, evaluation, and usage of facts and evidence in developing and refining strong arguments, as well as on composition and delivery techniques and styles for different audiences. Students will be assessed through a variety of written and verbal assignments. Special attention will be paid to identifying and avoiding logical fallacies, as well as employing appropriate rhetorical devices in different contexts and situations. The course will also build students’ capacity for interpersonal communication and effective persuasion.

This course is an introduction to the field of psychology, beginning with its historical context and looking ahead to some of the directions it is likely to take in the future. It offers as a starting point discussions on how the mind works, the perspectives from which that question can be approached, and directions for further learning. The class covers the evolution of a range of theories from Freud’s theory of personality and psychoanalytic theory to Cognitive Psychology and Positive Psychology. Topics also include classification of mental illnesses; cognitive, behavioral, psychoanalysis, and other therapies overview; models of motivation; emotions and theories on emotions; social psychology; simple and complex learning; memory, and perception. The course will also explore evolutionary theory and engineering psychology, and wrap up with a look at how the science may develop in the future.

The course aims to introduce students to a wide range of analytical skills for academic research, business analytics, and enhanced financial literacy. Key quantitative and qualitative methods for social sciences will be explored including a review of the specifics of different research process steps: research design, data collection techniques, analyzing data, reporting research findings, as well as useful tips in data visualization as one means of effectively communicating key findings. Statistical methods will be taught alongside basic elements of Calculus and Linear Algebra with a focus on applicability. In the second half of the course, principles of economics will also be introduced as a basis of further instruction in hands-on financial analytics. Students will learn to read and interpret key organizational financial statements for the purposes
of financial analytics, defining business viability or assessing risk. Students will also be acquainted with the concept of ‘big data’, its characteristics, and methods of and tools for systematic evaluation and analysis of large amounts of data. Mandatory year-long course for all first year students.