Baker Athletics explores what Wildcat alumni have been up to since their glory days as a BU student-athlete. In this feature, we catch up with Jodi Akers. A 1991 graduate who cheered and ran track for the Wildcats, Akers currently resides in Chicago where she is the Vice President at LaSalle Investment Management.

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Baldwin City Campus

Computers and technology touch every aspect of our lives in the modern world. Computer systems control machinery, the analysis of stock market trends, game design, visualization of chemical reactions, neural network design, computational geometry for robot navigation, automatic teller machines and patient monitoring in hospitals.

At Baker University, you will study the algorithmic processes that describe and transform information: theory, analysis, design, efficiency, programming and application. We offer a major and minor in computer science.

In the computer science major, you will take a core of subjects as well as electives in database, languages, artificial intelligence, networking, computer graphics, operating systems, Internet and software engineering. A high point of the major is the capstone project, where you will develop sophisticated computer applications.

No matter where you plan to take your knowledge of technology, you’ll leave Baker with the knowledge and confidence to build a better future.

Computer Science Student Experience

Baker computer science students have a multitude of opportunities for involvement in and out of the classroom. Small class sizes allow you maximum interaction with classmates and professors. Computer science students also take advantage of many activities beyond the classroom.

Research & Application

As part of the Baker curriculum, you will be actively engaged in the practical application of computer programming, database development and endless other usages of computers to enhance modern business, science, engineering and other fields. Recognizing that practical experience is essential in the modern professional world, we give you ample opportunity to practice the skills and knowledge you will learn in your computer science courses.

Research Experiences for Undergraduates

Baker students have been successful in obtaining research experiences for undergraduates. Held at major research universities in the summer, REUs are opportunities for undergraduate students in the fields of math, science and technology to take part in major research projects. REUs can offer you experience in various practical applications of mathematical theories and principles.

Internships

We encourage you to engage in as many real-world experiences as possible, allowing you to earn practical experience while developing the skills and knowledge you'll need as a working professional.

Minor in Conflict Management

This interdisciplinary minor provides communication skills and tools you can use immediately and later in your career.

Only Undergraduate Program in the Region

The minor in conflict management at Baker is one of very few undergraduate minors in the United States in this field. The minor teaches you the following:

• Advanced listening skills
• Ways to speak clearly and calmly when in conflict
• Respect for other disputants
• Third-party conflict management assistance strategies
• Ethics in personal relationships
• Tools for expanding the number of options for solutions
• Communication across cultural differences
• Effective group communication

Gain the Skills Employers Seek

A minor in conflict management is an ideal complement to any major and enhances the skills employers most value:

• Teamwork in diverse groups
• Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
• Creativity and innovation
• Ethics and values
• Complex problem solving

Reported in a 2006 survey of business leaders commissioned by the Association of American Colleges and Universities

What Students Say About Courses in this Minor

• This class combined historical information in a way that opened my mind to current issues. My personal value of being more aware nationally and globally has increased. – Nonviolence and Social Movements student
• This class makes it easier to critically analyze conflict problems outside of class. In these situations, I find myself thinking about what I have learned. This makes me realize the amount of information I have actually learned. – Pathways to Dispute Resolution student
• I am a business major and this class has been more beneficial to me than any other class I've taken in college! Thank you!! – Interpersonal Conflict Management student
• I think this course will benefit my personal life just as much as my future career. I learned a lot. – Pathways to Dispute Resolution student

This interdisciplinary minor offered through the communication program offers students course options in counseling psychology, criminal justice and game theory as part of the requirements.

Communication Courses

CO 115 - Oral Communication 3 hrs.

This course serves as an introduction to the principles of public speaking and interpersonal communication. Topics covered include models of communication, perception, listening, language, non-verbals, small groups, and relationships. Speaking performances are a central activity of the course.

CO 120 - Performance of Literature 3 hrs.

This course provides training in the art of communicating dramatic literature to an audience from the printed script. Examination of plays—serious and comic, classical and modern—as well as vocal production, are covered. (Cross-listed as TH 120.)

CO 230 - Communication Workshop 1 hr.

Students participate in communication activities. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor and audition required.

CO 237 - Introduction to Intercultural Communication 3 hrs.

This course deals with the management of messages for the purpose of creating meaning across cultures. The course focuses on such concepts as ethnocentrism, values and beliefs, cultural perceptions, language and meaning, and nonverbal behaviors. Specifically, the course will aim to have students develop an understanding of the intercultural communication process, enhance appreciation of diverse ways of communicating, develop analytical skills in examining intercultural interactions, and increase understanding of factors that influence cross-cultural communication effectiveness. Prerequisite: CO 115.

CO 242 - Interpersonal Communication and Ethics 3 hrs.

This course is a study of communication in one-to-one situations. Class sessions include exercises, role playing, and simulations. The goal of the course is improvement of communication and deepened self-awareness.

CO 245 - Advanced Public Speaking 3 hrs.

This course is designed to develop the student’s skills beyond the introductory experience in CO 115. Multiple speaking assignments provide a variety of speaking occasions and purposes. Students are encouraged to explore presentation formats beyond the two-to-five main points standard. This course will use the master class teaching format and produce a learning resume for the student. Prerequisite: CO 115.

CO 257 - Pathways to Dispute Resolution 3 hrs.

This course will introduce students to a comparison of the broad range of dispute resolution processes available in the US today. Negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation will be explained and analyzed for strengths and limitations in a variety of conflict situations. Additionally, students will discuss in detail the elements of conflict diagnosis in order to select the most appropriate resolution option for any particular situation.

CO 328 - Political Communication 3 hrs.

The course studies the relationship between politics and communication through rhetorical criticism of such areas as political campaigning, political uses of the mass media, genres of Presidential rhetoric, and famous speeches.

CO 330 - Fundamentals of Public Relations 3 hrs.

This introductory course focuses on a broad spectrum of public relations activities, methods, and applications. Prerequisites: MM 140 or 150; MM 250 or permission of the instructor. (Cross-listed as MM 330.)

CO 337 - Interpersonal Conflict Management 3 hrs.

Conflict is a part of daily life, but the costs of ignoring it or responding to it aggressively are especially high. This course seeks to introduce students to the nature of conflict, to an understanding of individual styles and tactics, and to a variety of alternative responses to conflict situations (both interpersonal and between groups). Negotiation and mediation principles will be examined. Prerequisite: CO 115.

CO 350 - Organizational Communication 3 hrs.

This course examines how organizations communicate with their internal and external audiences. Methods of conducting communication audits and of enhancing effective communication for organizations are explored. Models of leadership and responses to those styles will also be discussed.

CO 355 - Group and Team Communication 3 hrs.

Whether you are a manager on a highway project or a coordinator of volunteer services at a hospital, you will need to enlist others’ cooperation to assist in the accomplishment of strategic plans and goals. In part, communication serves to enable people to deal with the task and interpersonal barriers that naturally arise as part of joint action. Hence, this course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and leadership skills to understand the dynamics of small groups and teams, manage conflict, overcome barriers, and accomplish goals. Prerequisite: CO 115.

CO 380 - Argumentation and Debate 3 hrs.

This course introduces the student to argumentation and debate emphasizing practical knowledge of logical decision-making principles. Topics include argumentation, case construction, and debate theory.

CO 420 - Communicating the Feminine in Ancient World Religions 3 hrs.

This course is designed to survey the role of gender-specific symbol use in religions of the world. Primary texts will be examined in search of answers to the following: what gender-specific symbols are used; how closely is the symbol identified with the reality to which it points; what implications does such symbol use have for the perception, status, and roles of men and women. Each student will lead a class discussion, and write papers and exams. Prerequisite: junior or senior status.

Communication Alumni

Students who graduate from the communication program at Baker University go on to pursue careers in human resources, community activism, law, public relations, secondary education, sales, university advancement, ministry, the entertainment and hospitality industries and many others. Many pursue graduate degrees in communication, and more are seeking advanced degrees specifically in conflict resolution.

BBA Admission Requirements

What We Need From You

• Completed application form and fee
• One year of full-time work experience
• A minimum TOEFL test score of 600 on the paper-based test, a score of 250 on the computer-based test, or score of 100 on the Internet-based test for international applicants (Minimum passing score may vary as the ETS revises the exam.)
• Official transcripts from all regionally accredited colleges or universities attended
• An official high school transcript with a minimum GPA of 2.3 or official GED certificate with a minimum score of 47 is required if less than 12 credit hours are transferred

Enrollment Eligibility

Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions of higher education previously attended must indicate a minimum grade point average of 2.0. To be eligible to enroll in a major, a minimum of 36 transferable credit hours (D grades do not transfer) including three credit hours of Composition I with a grade of C or better must be earned.

Access Our Forms

• Application
• Transcripts (from other regionally accredited colleges or universities attended)

BBA Student Experience

Our Bachelor of Business Administration students consistently report that the knowledge they gained in class was immediately transferable to their daily professional lives.

BBA Courses

General Education Course Requirements

The general education course requirements are listed below:

Business Course Descriptions

Based on reasonable projections of faculty availability and appropriate curriculum considerations, the following courses can change as deemed necessary by Baker University to fulfill its role and mission. Approximately 18 months are required to fulfill the core program requirements. Courses must be completed in the order recommended by the University.

BBA 342 Introduction to Management Concepts

This introductory course for adult students pursuing an undergraduate degree covers topics such as program planning, group interaction, written and oral communication skills, personality inventory, and other important skills. (2 credits)

BBA 351 Management and Leadership

Designed to provide an overview of the roles and responsibilities of managers in the day-to-day operation of organizations, this course examines the critical roles of leadership, decision making, and communication and explores aspects of motivation and managing conflict, change, and diversity in contemporary organizations. (3 credits)

BBA 446 Project Planning for Managers

This course introduces the concepts and procedures essential to project-centered organizations. Learn about team development and conflict resolution, and use industry-leading software to enhance the project management process, including task assignment, project control, scheduling, and budgeting. (3 credits)

BBA 373 Accounting for Business

Accounting for Business goes beyond the mechanics of financial accounting to provide a more advanced understanding of accounting practices. It incorporates financial and managerial accounting concepts, including statement of cash flows, budgeting for planning and control, cost accounting systems, and break-even analysis. (3 credits)

BBA 482 Principles of Marketing

Principles of Marketing examines the nature of marketing and how it identifies and satisfies consumer needs. Learn about strategic marketing processes in an organization, the environmental factors that affect marketing, how consumers reach buying decisions, marketing research methodology, and the marketing mix elements, product, price, place and promotion. (3 credits)

BBA 484 Finance, Capital, and Management

Finance, Capital, and Management develops the basic financial skills used in decision making within the business organization for long-term financing, capital budgeting, working capital management, and related areas. (4 credits)

BBA 310 Prior Learning and Writing Development

Prior Learning and Writing Development assists students in improving writing skills while affording them the opportunity to complete a Prior Learning Assessment portfolio for additional credit. Students will review academic writing conventions with emphasis on content, organization, research methodology, critical thinking, and proofreading. This course introduces students to Bloom’s Taxonomy and Kolb's Model of Experiential Learning. Students learn to evaluate their learning experiences in order to ascertain learning outcomes and improve their critical thinking skills through examination and analysis of life experience. (Satisfies written English requirement) (3 credits)

BBA 311 Technology in the Workplace

Technology in the Workplace presents the many forms of information systems that provide data to contemporary organizations, including databases, the Internet, and decision support systems. The course reviews system design, infrastructure, security, and electronic commerce. Satisfies the Computer Science requirement. (3 credits)

BBA 382 Principles of Economics

Principles of Economics presents the basic principles and concepts of economics, including cost, supply and demand, elasticity, costs and benefits, GDP, inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, and international trade. Learn about these principles with an emphasis on how they influence business decisions. (4 credits)

BBA 353 Organizational Structure and Behavior

In Organizational Structure and Behavior, students examine organizational theory and its applications. Theories of organizational structure, organizational behavior, and the interaction between the two are studied and applied. (3 credits)

BBA 371 Data Development and Analysis

Data Development and Analysis is an introduction to statistics. Students learn how to conduct proper data collection and analysis, and how to interpret and use statistics to enhance business decisions. (Satisfies math requirement) (4 credits)

BBA 352 Business Law and Government Regulation

Business Law and Government Regulation examines the formation and application of common law, the Uniform Commercial Code, and administrative agency law in relation to the business organization. (3 credits)

BBA 455 Business Policy Analysis

Find out about the contemporary policy issues facing business professionals, and integrate the various disciplines encountered in the BBA program. The course focuses on learning to evaluate alternatives and construct an effective policy statement. (3 credits)

Studio Art Courses

See courses in Art Education | Art History

AS 120 - Drawing I 3 hrs.

This course emphasizes development of powers of observation. In it both descriptive and expressive intent are explored through drawing using a variety of media. The class meets six studio hours per week.

AS 121 - Painting I 3 hrs.

This course provides instruction to develop skill in painting from direct observation. Assignments involve the understanding of color and color use in aesthetic statement. The class meets six studio hours per week.

AS 122 - Printmaking I 3 hrs.

This course provides an introduction to processes and procedures fundamental to fine printmaking. Relief, intaglio, planographic, and screen stencil media are studied. The class meets six studio hours per week.

AS 130 - Ceramics I 3 hrs.

In this course students gain an understanding of clay properties, glazing techniques, and kiln operation. Hand-building techniques are emphasized, but throwing and mold-construction approaches are introduced. The class meets six studio hours per week.

AS 132 - Sculpture I 3 hrs.

This is an introductory course in which the three-dimensional concepts of form, mass, and spatial relationships are explored through use of a variety of selected media. Hand forming, casting, and constructions techniques are employed in addressing assigned problems. The class meets six studio hours per week.

AS 170 - Photography I 3 hrs.

This class provides instruction in black and white photographic procedures including shooting, processing, and printing techniques. In addition to classroom time, weekly darkroom time is required as scheduled. The student must provide a 35mm SLR camera with a normal lens, film, and paper. (Cross-listed as MM 170.)

AS 190 - Design for Graphic Applications 3 hrs.

This class will engage the student with explorations of basic design principles as applied to text, color, composition and general design theories. Furthermore, this class will serve as an introduction to problem-solving strategies, fundamentals of communication theory, and analysis of a wide range of professional solutions to communication problems. This course considers the world of print media of single page compositions, multi-page documents, the integration of form, image, and text as sites for audience engagement. Prerequisite: AE 110 or permission of instructor.

AS 230 - Jewelry and Metalsmithing 3 hrs.

Fundamental skills for jewelry fabrication and metalsmithing are presented in this course. Original designs are developed and executed using a variety of materials, methods, and techniques. Forming, casting, and finishing processes are included. Prerequisite: AE 110.

AS 240 - Weaving and Fiber Art 3 hrs.

This course instructs students in the use of tools, techniques, and processes required for producing original fiber art from concept to finished object. Fibers, fabrics, and technical procedures for working on and off loom, including knotting, appliqué, and surface design, will be included in the study. Prerequisite: AE 110.

AS 282 - The Fine Art of Gallery Management 3 hrs.

This course introduces students to the diverse world of galleries through visits to museums, private galleries and art collections. Students will review portfolios and learn how to select gallery art work, develop skills in promoting and advertising shows, and become familiar with the financial management of a gallery. Additionally, students will participate in one or more gallery opening. Prerequisite: AE 110 or AH 111, or permission of the instructor. (Cross-listed as AH 282.)

AS 290 - Special Topics in Studio Art 3 hrs.

This course provides opportunity for focused study of an aspect of studio art not regularly available in the curriculum. Since topics change with each use of this listing, students may retake this listing as topics change.

AS 350 - Drawing II 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 120 with emphasis on individual exploration of compositional and expressive possibilities in finished drawings. Group and individual critique are provided. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 120.

AS 351 - Painting II 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 121 with emphasis on individual exploration of compositional and expressive possibilities of color. Group and individual critique are provided. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 121.

AS 352 - Printmaking II 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 122 with emphasis on technical and visual problems and on printmaking as an expressive art form. Group and individual critique are provided. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 122.

AS 360 - Ceramics II 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 130 and includes both functional and sculptural aspects of clay. Wheel-thrown and hand-built problems will be developed. Group and individual critique are provided. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 130.

AS 362 - Sculpture II 3 hrs.

This course provides a continuation of AS 132 and is a study of sculpture as an art form. Emphasis is placed on technical and visual problems including casting procedures. Group and individual critique are provided. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 132.

AS 370 - Photography II 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of the study of photography, with concern for the camera as a tool for communication and of aesthetic concern. Group and individual critique are provided. Prerequisite: AS or MM 170, or the permission of the instructor. (Cross-listed as MM 370.

AS 382 - The Fine Art of Gallery Management 3 hrs.

This course provides students an opportunity to continue their exploration of the diverse world of galleries through visits to museums, private galleries and art collections. Students will review portfolios and learn how to select gallery art work, develop skills in promoting and advertising shows, and become familiar with the financial management of a gallery. Additionally, students will participate in one or more gallery opening. Prerequisite: AH/AS 282. (Cross-listed as AH 382.)

AS 390 - Graphic Design I 3 hrs.

This course addresses aesthetic and technical aspects of visual communication. Students are introduced to tools, techniques, and processes required to produce original creative design from initial sketch through to finished art. Traditional and computer-assisted design processes are presented. Prerequisites: AE 110, AS 120, and AS/MM 170.

AS 391 - Graphic Design II 3 hrs.

This is a continuation of AS 390 with emphasis on solving complex communication problems, developing aesthetic judgment, and preparing a professional port f o l i o. Prerequisite: AS 390.

AS 450 - Drawing III 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 350. Expression of aesthetic judgment and the production of a unified drawing portfolio are given emphasis. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 350.

AS 451 - Painting III 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 351. Expression of aesthetic judgment and the production of a unified painting portfolio are central purposes of the course. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 351.

AS 452 - Printmaking III 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 352. Expression of aesthetic judgment and the production of a unified printmaking portfolio are central purposes of the course. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 352.

AS 460 - Ceramics III 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 360. Expression of aesthetic judgment and the production of a unified ceramics portfolio are central purposes of the course. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 360.

AS 462 - Sculpture III 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 362. Expression of aesthetic judgment and the production of a unified sculpture portfolio are central purposes of the course. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 362.

AS 470 - Photography III 3 hrs.

This course is a continuation of AS 370. Expression of aesthetic judgment and the production of a unified printmaking portfolio are central purposes of the course. The class meets six studio hours per week. Prerequisite: AS 370.

AS 474 - Design Applications 3 hrs.

In this course, emphasis is on the application of design principles in resolving problems in one of a wide range of visual media. Both functional and non-functional will be considered. The class meets six studio hours per week. Pre requisite: Six hours of upper-college AS courses.

AS 295, 495 - Special Topics in Studio Art 3 hrs.

This course provides opportunity for focused study of an aspect of studio art not regularly available in the curriculum. Since topics change with each use of this listing, students may retake this listing as topics change.

AS 496 - Portfolio and Exhibition 1 hr.

Students in this course develop an understanding of standards and strategies for preparing and presenting works of art and for articulating artistic goals and objectives. Each student presents a formal exhibit of his or her own recent work as part of this course. Required of senior Studio Art majors.

AS 499 - Independent Study in Studio Art 1-3 hrs.

Students with advanced standing, having demonstrated prior superior achievement in the study of art at Baker, may petition for permission to study a topic independently. Prerequisite: Departmental chair approval.