Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies

CTE 3304. Human Relations for Career and Technical Education Teachers.

This course examines the dynamics of human relations through the lens of reflective thinking, interpersonal behavior, and applied coping strategies. Students will critically reflect on their own learning experiences and interpersonal patterns to deepen self-awareness and strengthen relational competence. The course explores common difficult personality types frequently encountered in academic, workplace, and social settings, emphasizing behavioral recognition and underlying psychological dynamics. Students will investigate evidence-based coping techniques for managing challenging interactions and reducing relational conflict. Through applied exercises, case analysis, and skill practice, students will develop practical strategies to respond constructively, regulate emotional reactions, and foster productive human relationships across a wide variety of contexts.

CTE 3315. Leadership and Organizational Influence.

This course examines how leadership influence operates within organizations and workforce settings. Students explore leadership concepts related to power, influence, persuasion, and leadership communication in organizational environments. The course analyzes how leaders build credibility, shape relationships, and influence individuals, teams, and stakeholders in the pursuit of organizational goals. Through readings, case studies, and applied activities, students examine leadership behaviors, influence strategies, and ethical considerations associated with leadership roles. Emphasis is placed on understanding how leadership influence functions within professional contexts.

CTE 3320. Effective Methods of Teaching and Training.

This course introduces instructional methods used in career, technical, and workforce education, emphasizing evidence‑based approaches to designing and delivering effective learning activities. Students examine lesson planning, instructional models, classroom and training‑room management, and strategies for facilitating learning in diverse settings. The course provides opportunities to analyze professional practices, apply instructional concepts, and evaluate methods according to context and learner needs. Practice teaching activities support skill development and reflective evaluation. The course is designed for students preparing to teach or train in technical, professional, and workforce environments.

CTE 3321. Work-based Learning in Career and Technical Education.

This course examines the principles, structures, and practices of work‑based learning (WBL) in Career and Technical Education. Students study the selection of training sites, recruitment of participants, and coordination of on‑the‑job learning experiences. The course emphasizes how WBL programs function within school, community, and organizational contexts while exploring the documentation, reporting processes, and record‑keeping procedures required in cooperative education settings. Students analyze program goals, identify training needs, craft learning objectives, and evaluate strategies for designing effective workplace learning experiences. Through readings, discussions, and applied assignments, students develop components of a comprehensive WBL proposal and gain experience with the practical responsibilities of coordinating work‑based learning programs.

CTE 3322. Teaching and Training as Professions.

This course examines the professional foundations of teaching and training across educational and organizational contexts. Students study the processes of professional preparation, licensure requirements, organizational structures, and the philosophical traditions that shape instructional practice. The course also introduces the socio‑political factors that influence educator and trainer roles, including regulatory environments, professional expectations, and institutional responsibilities. Through readings, applied activities, and reflective analysis, students explore how professionals operate within diverse learning environments and how training and teaching functions align with broader organizational or educational goals. Emphasis is placed on understanding professional standards as objects of study rather than as prescribed beliefs or viewpoints.

CTE 3323. Technology Applications.

This course introduces students to digital tools for analysis, professional communication, and presentation. Students develop technology stacks that support organizing information, analyzing data, and presenting evidence-based narratives for academic and workplace audiences. Through individual and team projects, students apply tool-based workflows to complete tasks and participate in structured peer review and iterative revision while strengthening technical and interpersonal skills. The course also supports creative experimentation with software tools so students can explore original ideas and build confidence in digital productivity. By the end of the course, students will have practical, transferable skills for communication, collaboration, and workflow organization across diverse professional settings.

CTE 3324. Entrepreneurship in Schools, Communities, and the Workplace.

This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of entrepreneurship and its practical application across schools, communities, and workplace settings. Emphasizing both theory and practice, the course examines how entrepreneurial thinking can be used to identify opportunities, solve problems, create value, and lead innovation across contexts that apply entrepreneurial principles. Students will explore the interdisciplinary concepts of entrepreneurship training within career and technical education, educational entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, and intrapreneurship. The course highlights entrepreneurship knowledge through multidisciplinary lenses like case analysis, applied projects, real-world challenges, business modulars and opportunities, adaptability, and strategy in educational and professional environments.

CTE 3325. Innovation and Solutions in Technology Applications.

This course introduces students to technology innovation processes using non‑coding tools and methodologies. Students examine how organizations identify needs, prototype solutions, evaluate feasibility, and prepare products for deployment. Emphasis is placed on analyzing technology‑related problems, assessing potential impacts, and applying structured approaches to support organizational decision‑making. The course also addresses the phases of the product launch cycle, from initial concept development to practical implementation. Students learn to evaluate options, articulate rationale for design choices, and document their processes clearly for professional audiences.

CTE 3330. STEM Literacy for the Workplace.

This course introduces students to STEM literacy frameworks relevant to a range of professional environments. Students will be able to identify and develop STEM literacy skills to solve problems in the workplace, the classroom, and in everyday life. Instruction focuses on occupational reflection and industry research while exploring the complementary nature of STEM soft skills and the foundational technical components of STEM: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Assignments include instructor selected readings, student selected readings, reflection essays, online discussions, and a final STEM literacy learning plan. The culminating project is a student-centric roadmap consisting of pre- and post-assessment results, industry data, workplace experiences, and career goals.

CTE 3340. Occupational Skills for the 21st Century.

This course explores frameworks for identifying, assessing, and developing workplace competencies relevant to contemporary occupations. Students engage with the CliftonStrengths model, O*NET data, and structured development‑plan templates to study how individuals can cultivate targeted professional capabilities. Through guided activities and peer exchange, the course provides opportunities to analyze learning strategies, resource selection, and tools that support competency growth across a range of occupational contexts.

CTE 3351. Instrument Flight Rules for Rotary-Wing Aircrafts.

This course provides students with a comprehensive review of the standard aircraft instrumentation array specific to rotary-wing aircraft. Topics include how these devices operate as well as the nature of the information conveyed by them to a flight crew to ensure safe aircraft navigation, assessment of aircraft system function, and emergency response. Students will be provided opportunities to implement concepts in real-world scenarios Prerequisite: CTE 3650 with a grade of "CR".

CTE 3352. Theory of Commercial Rotary-Wing Flight I.

This course explores advanced rotary-wing aircraft systems, aerodynamics, federal aviation regulations, airports and airspace, navigation, and performance from the perspective of commercial aviation. Topics include theory of commercial rotary-wing aircraft operations and practical application to real-world aviation scenarios. Prerequisite: CTE 3650 and CTE 3351 with grades of "CR".

CTE 3353. Principles and Methods of Rotary-Wing Flight Instruction I.

This course focuses on techniques for teaching prospective rotary-wing pilots under visual and instrument rules. Topics include theory of adult learning, creation of lesson plans, learning modules, and appropriate assessments for rotary-wing aircraft operation instruction. Prerequisite: CTE 3650 and CTE 3351 and CTE 3352 all with grades of "CR".

CTE 3355. Theory of Commercial Rotary-Wing Flight II.

This part II course explores advanced rotary-wing aircraft systems, aerodynamics, federal aviation regulations, airports and airspace, navigation, and performance from the perspective of commercial aviation. Topics include theory of commercial rotary-wing aircraft operations and practical application to real-world aviation scenarios. Prerequisite: CTE 3650 and CTE 3351 and CTE 3352 all with grades of "CR".

CTE 3356. Principles and Methods of Rotary-Wing Flight Instruction II.

This part II course focuses on techniques for teaching prospective pilots under visual and instrument rules. Topics include theory of adult learning, creation of lesson plans, learning modules, and appropriate assessments for rotary-wing aircraft operation instruction. Prerequisite: CTE 3650 and CTE 3351 and CTE 3352 and CTE 3353 and CTE 3355 all with grades of "CR".

CTE 3361. Instrument Flight Rules for Aviation.

This course provides a comprehensive examination of standard aircraft instrumentation used to support safe and effective flight operations. Students study the operating principles and information conveyed by flight instruments for navigation, system monitoring, and emergency response. Topics include pitot-static instruments, gyroscopic systems, magnetic and electronic compasses, engine and fuel monitoring displays, and modern glass cockpit configurations. Emphasis is placed on accurate instrument interpretation, cross-checking techniques, and recognition of system failures or erroneous indications. Learning activities include simulated flight scenarios and case-based analyses of instrument-related incidents, preparing students to integrate instrument data into sound operational decisions during routine, abnormal, and emergency flight conditions. Prerequisite: CTE 3660 with a grade of "CR". Corequisite: CTE 4323 with a grade of "D" or better.

CTE 3362. Theory of Commercial Flight.

This course examines the systems, regulations, and performance considerations that shape commercial aviation. Students study aircraft structures, aerodynamics, propulsion, navigation, airports, airspace classifications, and federal aviation regulatory frameworks. Emphasis is placed on understanding how commercial operations integrate technical, environmental, and procedural factors to support safe and efficient flight. Through case-based analysis and scenario‑based problem solving, students engage with real‑world operational challenges to evaluate aircraft performance, interpret flight conditions, and assess operational decisions. The course provides foundational knowledge applicable to advanced commercial pilot competencies and supports students preparing for commercial certification. Prerequisite: CTE 3660 and CTE 3361 both with grades of "CR". Corequisite: CTE 4322 with a grade of "D" or better.

CTE 3363. Principles and Methods of Flight Instruction.

This course introduces the instructional methods used in training prospective pilots operating under visual and instrument flight rules. Students examine principles of adult learning, lesson sequencing, and the development of aviation‑specific instructional materials. Emphasis is placed on creating lesson plans, designing learning modules, and constructing assessments that align with industry standards for flight instruction. The course also addresses strategies for communicating complex procedures, supporting student skill development, and evaluating learner performance in both routine and high‑workload environments. Through applied practice, students gain experience in applying instructional frameworks to flight‑training scenarios while maintaining professional standards and safety expectations. Prerequisite: CTE 3660 and CTE 3361 and CTE 3362 and CTE 3365 all with a grade of "CR". Corequisite: CTE 4321 with a grade of "D" or better.

CTE 3364. Theory of Multi-Engine Aircraft Operations.

This course examines the theory, aerodynamics, and safe operation of multi-engine aircraft. Emphasis is placed on preflight planning, normal and abnormal flight operations, and takeoff and landing maneuvers. Topics include constant-speed propeller systems, multi-tank fuel and pump systems, dual electrical systems, turbocharging, ice control systems, and performance analysis. Students apply manufacturer performance charts to evaluate multi-engine weight, balance, and operational limitations. Additional focus is placed on engine-out procedures, single-engine performance, and the aerodynamic factors unique to asymmetric thrust. Through a combination of ground instruction and applied analysis, students build the foundational knowledge and technical skills required for safe, proficient multi-engine flight operations in both routine and emergency scenarios. Prerequisite: CTE 3660 and CTE 3361 and CTE 3362 and CTE 3363 and 3365 and 3366 all with grades of "CR".

CTE 3365. Theory of Commercial Flight II.

This course is part II of a sequence that examines advanced concepts in commercial aviation, including aircraft systems, aerodynamics, flight performance, airports and airspace, and federal aviation regulations. Students study how commercial aircraft operate within regulated airspace and how environmental and operational factors influence navigation and flight decision making. The course emphasizes analytical approaches to aircraft performance and introduces methods for evaluating scenarios common to commercial aviation. Students engage with case based examples to understand how technical knowledge is applied in commercial flight contexts. This course builds on prior coursework by expanding theoretical foundations and strengthening students’ ability to interpret aviation data, procedures, and regulatory guidance in professional settings. Prerequisite: CTE 3660 and CTE 3361 and 3362 all with grades of "CR". Corequisite: CTE 3367 with a grade of "D" or better.

CTE 3366. Principles and Methods of Flight Instruction II.

This course is part II of the introductory flight instruction coursework, emphasizing techniques for teaching prospective pilots under visual and instrument flight rules. Students examine adult learning theory as it applies to cockpit and simulator environments, and they design lesson plans, learning modules, and assessment instruments appropriate for primary and advanced flight training. Through structured practice and feedback, students refine their ability to sequence instruction, brief and debrief training events, and evaluate learner progress. The course prepares future flight instructors to deliver clear, safe, and standards-based instruction that aligns with current aviation training practices and regulatory expectations. Prerequisite: CTE 3660 and CTE 3361 and CTE 3362 and CTE 3365 and CTE 3363 all with grades of "CR".

CTE 3367. Aerodynamics.

This course in advanced aerodynamics and flight principles is related to airplane operations and performance. Design concepts for high performance, supersonic, and special use airplanes are studied to enable future pilots to predict airplane performance and limitations in a wide range of flight applications with special regard to speed and configuration. Topics include transonic and supersonic flow, compressibility effects, shock wave formation, swept and delta wing design, and high-lift devices used in advanced aircraft. Students examine stability and control characteristics, thrust and drag relationships, and the aerodynamic considerations unique to high-altitude and high-speed flight regimes. Emphasis is placed on applying theoretical principles to practical performance analysis, including takeoff, climb, cruise, and landing calculations across diverse aircraft types. Coursework prepares students to evaluate flight envelopes, operational limits, and design trade-offs in modern aviation. Corequisite: CTE 3365 with a grade of "CR".

CTE 3368. Aviation History.

This course is an introduction to the history of aeronautics from its origins to the present day. It examines selected topics in flight from an international perspective, with emphasis on developments in the United States. The course situates aviation within broader cultural, economic, political, technological, and military contexts through lectures, readings, writing assignments, and discussions. Students trace the evolution of aviation from early lighter-than-air craft through powered flight, the rise of commercial aviation, the world wars, and the jet age. Course materials draw on primary and secondary sources to analyze how aeronautical advancements have interacted with global events and technological change.

CTE 3369. Aircraft Accidents and Investigations.

This course introduces the foundational concepts, procedures, and regulatory frameworks used in aircraft accident investigation. Students examine investigative methods, documentation practices, and the analytical techniques applied in identifying contributing factors to aviation accidents. The course emphasizes how investigators interpret physical evidence, maintenance records, flight data, and human‑factors information. Students study relevant FAA and NTSB standards to understand how accident findings are developed and communicated within professional settings. By focusing on the systematic and evidence‑based nature of accident investigation, the course enables learners to understand how aviation incidents are evaluated without advocating for specific policy or operational conclusions.

CTE 3370. Introduction to Leadership.

This course introduces foundational leadership theories and concepts used to understand leadership in organizational and workforce settings. Students examine major leadership models, leadership styles, and characteristics associated with effective leadership. The course explores how leaders influence individuals, teams, and organizations through communication, decision-making, and relationship building. Through readings, case studies, and applied activities, students analyze leadership behaviors and evaluate leadership approaches used in a variety of organizational contexts. Emphasis is placed on understanding leadership as a field of study and examining how leadership concepts apply in professional environments.

CTE 3371. Systems Analysis and Design in Information Technology.

This course introduces students to object‑oriented systems analysis and design methods used in contemporary information system development. Students study techniques for modeling system requirements, designing system components, and applying project management principles relevant to software projects. Topics include Unified Modeling Language (UML), system evaluation, requirements analysis, and system development life cycle frameworks. Through applied case scenarios, students analyze business needs and design computer-based information system solutions using established object-oriented methodologies. The course examines how information systems support organizational processes within structured development environments.

CTE 3372. Database Theory and Practices in Information Technology.

This course provides an overview of essential database concepts used in contemporary information systems. Students study relational databases, alternative data models, and the principles of structured data management. Course activities include developing entity‑relationship diagrams, applying normalization rules, and building database solutions using SQL statements. Attention is given to performance optimization, data integrity, and multi‑user access considerations. Through applied projects, students gain hands-on experience in constructing efficient and secure databases designed to address practical organizational requirements.

CTE 3373. Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace.

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) concepts, methods, and applications relevant to organizational and workforce contexts. The course examines foundational and historical aspects of AI alongside contemporary uses of AI systems in professional environments. Emphasis is placed on analytical evaluation of AI technologies, enabling students to consider how such systems are designed, deployed, and assessed in relation to workplace processes and decision‑making. Students explore the potential roles AI may play in organizational operations, workforce effectiveness, and leadership practices, while also considering limitations and challenges. Through case studies and structured projects, the course provides opportunities for students to engage with real‑world AI applications and examine their use in workforce settings. Ethical, legal, and governance issues associated with AI adoption are examined as important considerations informing responsible organizational use.

CTE 3375. Principles of Data Science & Analytics.

This course introduces the mathematical and computational foundations of data science. Students study core concepts in statistics, probability, and linear algebra, which provide the basis for understanding data science literature, and analyzing the principles underlying algorithms and data-driven models. The course also introduces descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics and demonstrates methods such as regression and clustering to support data analysis and interpretation. Emphasis is placed on foundational data science principles and on developing practical skills for working with diverse datasets.

CTE 3376. Database Theory and Practices in Data Analytics.

This course explores the concepts, principles, issues, and techniques for managing data resources using modern database management systems (DBMS) in a data science context. The course covers techniques for the analysis, design, and development of database systems, focusing on logical data models, database query languages, and methods for evaluating database management software. Students will gain hands‑on experience using relational database management systems to create, manage, and optimize data solutions. The content emphasizes the role of databases in supporting data analysis and decision-making, enabling students to develop effective data management strategies for real-world applications.

CTE 3377. Data Visualization.

This course introduces the principles and techniques used to create data visualizations in data science contexts. Students examine methods for preparing, displaying, and interpreting data. Practical exercises using tools such as Python, R, and Tableau allow students to apply visualization concepts to structured and unstructured datasets. Through guided practice, students learn approaches for converting datasets into visual formats that support analysis and interpretation. Emphasis is placed on understanding how visual design choices influence clarity, insight, and effective communication of data.

CTE 3378. Cybersecurity in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies.

This course examines fundamental concepts and practices in cybersecurity, including threats, vulnerabilities, cryptographic techniques, network security principles, and risk management processes. Students analyze how cybersecurity considerations shape organizational operations, workforce demands, and leadership decision‑making. Emphasis is placed on understanding Agile project‑management methods as applied to cybersecurity initiatives in professional settings. Through case analysis and applied exercises, students evaluate multiple approaches for identifying, mitigating, and communicating cybersecurity risks. The course prepares students to interpret cybersecurity challenges and organizational responses without prescribing specific viewpoints or policy positions.

CTE 3379. Applied Artificial Intelligence for Organizational Leadership.

This course examines applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) used to support organizational strategy, decision‑making, and operational effectiveness. Students study core AI technologies, review organizational use cases, and analyze how AI‑supported systems interact with leadership structures, workforce considerations, and institutional constraints. Emphasis is placed on understanding capabilities and limitations, evaluating AI tools in organizational settings, and examining ethical, legal, and governance considerations associated with adoption. The course situates AI as a subject of analysis rather than advocacy, encouraging critical examination of AI‑supported leadership and innovation across public and non‑profit contexts.

CTE 3382. Program Evaluation Methods in STEM Community Contexts.

This course introduces undergraduate students to methodological approaches used in community‑based program evaluation within STEM education contexts. Students examine frameworks for participatory and context‑responsive evaluation and apply data collection and analysis techniques with a local organizational partner. The course emphasizes research design, evaluation planning, and documentation of findings for external stakeholders. Through guided field engagement, students gain practical experience working with community organizations while developing the skills necessary to produce structured evaluation reports grounded in empirical evidence and established evaluation methods.

CTE 3650. Private Rotary-Wing Aircraft Operations.

This course explores the dynamics of flight through the investigation into and proper operations of rotary wing private aircraft. Topics include theory and operation of flying, supplemented by learning acquired from flight simulator experiences and actual flight time combined with practical flight instruction. Students can attempt certification as a private pilot (rotary wing) upon successful course completion.

CTE 3660. Private Aircraft Operations.

This course introduces students to the dynamics of flight and the standard operating procedures used in private aircraft. Students study aerodynamics, aircraft systems, airport and airspace operations, weather considerations, and basic navigation techniques. Learning activities combine classroom-based theory with structured flight simulator sessions and supervised observation or practice in aircraft, as permitted by applicable regulations and partnership agreements. Emphasis is placed on safety, aeronautical decision making, and the integration of ground knowledge with practical flight tasks such as pre-flight planning, takeoff, basic maneuvers, and landing. Upon successful completion, students may be prepared to attempt private pilot certification through appropriate external testing bodies. Corequisite: CTE 4320 with a grade of "D" or better.

CTE 4310. Independent Study in Career and Technical Education.

This course provides an individualized study experience focused on topics within Career and Technical Education (CTE). Students work independently under the guidance of a faculty member to investigate a selected subject area, engage with relevant scholarly or professional literature, and complete academic or applied projects suitable to the chosen emphasis. The course supports students in developing deeper knowledge, research skills, and professional competencies within CTE fields. Learning activities, project parameters, and assessment criteria are established collaboratively with the supervising faculty member. This course may be repeated for credit when topics differ.

CTE 4315. Life Planning: Concepts and Methods.

This course examines concepts and tools used in personal and professional life planning. Students apply analytical frameworks drawn from psychology, sociology, and planning studies to explore multiple domains of life development and to construct individualized planning documents. The course emphasizes critical evaluation of goal-setting models, the use of organizational techniques, and the application of mobile technologies to support planning processes. Students practice identifying goals, mapping pathways toward their achievement, and assessing progress using structured methods. Coursework focuses on reflective analysis and the development of transferable planning skills applicable to a range of personal and professional contexts.

CTE 4320. Aviation Safety.

This course examines the principles, practices, and organizational factors that shape aviation safety within commercial, private, and governmental flight operations. Students study models of threat and error management, human factors, and the development of effective safety cultures. The course addresses weather-related and mechanical considerations, systems-level risk identification, and approaches used in modern Safety Management Systems (SMS). Emphasis is placed on analyzing evidence, interpreting regulatory frameworks, and evaluating documented cases to understand how accidents and safety incidents occur. Learners use professional tools and procedures to assess risks, propose improvements, and develop safety documentation used in aviation organizations. Corequisite: CTE 3660 with a grade of "CR".

CTE 4321. Operations Risk Management.

This course introduces students to the study of operational risk in aviation and the methodologies used to understand and manage safety‑related factors. Topics include theoretical models of risk assessment, approaches to hazard identification, and analytical techniques for evaluating risk in flight operations. Students examine how aircraft systems, environmental influences, and human factors contribute to operational outcomes and review documented aviation events to explore these relationships. Through structured evaluations and written analyses, students apply risk‑management principles and assess mitigation strategies used in professional aviation settings. Corequisite: CTE 3363 with a grade of "CR".

CTE 4322. Crew Resource Management.

This course explores the theory and practical application of Crew Resource Management (CRM) for aviation professionals. Students examine how situation awareness, communication skills, teamwork, task allocation, and decision making contribute to safe and efficient aviation operations. Through case studies and structured analysis of accidents and incidents, students study the ways human factors, workload management, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) influence performance. The course emphasizes evidence‑based CRM principles, allowing students to evaluate and apply these concepts in diverse aviation contexts while considering multiple perspectives on risk and safety. Corequisite: CTE 3362 with a grade of "CR".

CTE 4323. Aviation Weather.

This course explores weather and its effects on aviation operations, with emphasis on how atmospheric processes influence flight planning and in‑flight decision making. Students examine foundational weather theory, including common weather phenomena that impact aircraft performance and safety. The course introduces meteorological forecasting, modeling, and reporting tools that are typically accessible to aviators and other aviation professionals. Through analysis of real‑world weather products and scenarios, students learn to evaluate weather information, assess associated risks, and relate these evaluations to safe and efficient aircraft operations. Corequisite: CTE 3361 with a grade of "CR".

OCED 3310. Human Problems in the Workplace.

This course examines common human issues encountered in workplace settings across business, industry, social service, military, and educational environments. Students study how these issues may affect communication, performance, and professional development while introducing multiple perspectives on workplace challenges, research findings, and resource options. Emphasis is placed on understanding the nature of these issues, evaluating their impact on organizational effectiveness, and identifying appropriate pathways for support or referral when needed. Through the study of human relations, emotional intelligence, and ethics, students develop an evidence-informed understanding of how human factors shape workplace functioning and professional dynamics.

OCED 3321. Creative Thinking.

This course examines creative thinking theories, models, and skills-building techniques. Students explore structured methods for generating, evaluating, and refining ideas through regular applied activities. The course analyzes examples of influential creative thinkers across historical and professional contexts and considers the role of creative thinking in organizational and workplace settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding, practicing, and evaluating creative thinking processes using evidence-based frameworks.

OCED 3322. Problem Solving and Decision Making.

This course surveys foundational mental models, examines common data types, and introduces basic analytical tools used in decision-making and problem analysis. Students analyze how mental models influence reasoning and explore frameworks for applying analytical tools across varied contexts. The course emphasizes evaluating decision-making approaches, comparing problem-solving models, and assessing how structured analytical methods are used to address complex problems.

OCED 3323. Health and Safety in the Workplace.

This course examines principles, standards, and practices related to workplace health and safety across a range of organizational contexts. Students analyze common workplace hazards and review regulatory and industry guidelines. Students also apply safety management practices relevant to environments with varying levels of risk. The course activities focus on developing and documenting competencies associated with workplace health and safety practices used by employers and regulatory bodies.

OCED 3324. Project Management Leadership.

This course examines tools, frameworks, and practices associated with project management and leadership. Students analyze common project management challenges, including workload coordination, team leadership, stakeholder communication, risk and scope management, and delegation. Through case studies, guided exercises, and applied analysis, the course emphasizes evaluating project management approaches and applying established practices across varied organizational contexts.

OCED 3325. Accommodating Learners with Support Needs in CTE.

This course examines foundational frameworks that support access and participation in Career and Technical Education (CTE) for individuals with support needs in educational and workplace settings. Students will learn to describe characteristics associated with various support needs, analyze legal requirements, and evaluate environments for compliance with procedural standards. The course also explores approaches for implementing accommodations within CTE and workplace contexts to ensure effective instruction and meaningful participation.

OCED 3326. Teamwork.

This course explores the principles and practices of effective teamwork in professional and organizational settings. They will learn the differences between a group and a team, how to lead teams, become effective team players, and resolve conflicts constructively. The course examines the lifecycle of teams, various team roles, and dynamics that influence performance. Ultimately, students will gain practical strategies for setting up, developing, and managing teams to achieve common goals successfully.

OCED 3327. Excellence in Customer Service.

This course prepares students to apply hard and soft skills to navigate a wide range of customer service contexts in face-to-face and digital environments. Students explore custom service in different industries, interpersonal communication, professionalism, techniques for identifying and assessing customer needs, building relationships, providing personalized support, online and phone interactions, anticipating needs, handling hostile customers, setting boundaries, seeking and analyzing feedback, and maintaining professional conduct under routine and challenging conditions. Through applied and practice-based activities, students analyze different service models and communication strategies used across industries.

OCED 3350. Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies for the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Degree.

This course introduces students to interdisciplinary study within the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) degree and supports them in connecting their educational, professional, and personal experiences to degree requirements. Students will examine their degree audit report, explore course options across the three BAAS modules, and evaluate opportunities for prior learning assessment (PLA). Emphasis is placed on structured reflection, academic planning, and purposeful decision-making as students clarify their academic pathway. Through guided writing and analysis, students will identify professional goals, assess how their prior experiences align with their degree progress, and begin shaping ideas for a future capstone project. The course is designed to help students develop a clearer sense of direction and a more intentional approach to completing the BAAS degree. Prerequisite: 2.25 Overall GPA and Texas State GPA of 2.25. Corequisite: OCED 4350 with a grade of "D" or better.

OCED 4111. Independent Study in Occupational Education.

This course introduces students to the foundations of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and the role it plays in credentialing experiential, occupational and workforce learning. Students investigate PLA methodologies, examine competency‑based assessment models, evaluate skills, and verify experiential learning and non‑collegiate training. Coursework includes independent investigation, structured analysis of job tasks, and synthesis of knowledge, skills, cognitive abilities, and tools and technology associated with workplace performance. The course supports students in producing a competency-based portfolio suitable for academic review and may be repeated for credit.

OCED 4302. Trends and Issues in OWLS.

This course examines emerging trends and issues shaping the contemporary workplace by exploring research from multiple disciplines. Students analyze developments such as artificial intelligence, multigenerational workforce dynamics, evolving work arrangements, and changing skill demands. Emphasis is placed on evaluating scholarly literature, synthesizing findings, and writing clear, evidence‑based abstracts for professional audiences. The course provides opportunities to investigate how organizations respond to shifting economic, technological, and social conditions while developing analytical and communication skills relevant to workforce studies.

OCED 4325. Development and Change in Organizations.

This course examines the field of organization development (OD) through the study of theories, processes, and data‑driven methods used to guide organizational change. Students explore historical foundations, core concepts, and ethical considerations while analyzing a range of OD interventions applicable to individuals, teams, and organizations. Emphasis is placed on developing systematic approaches for diagnosing organizational needs, evaluating change strategies, and understanding the practitioner role. Through case analysis and applied activities, students learn how OD frameworks can be used to understand change across diverse organizational settings without prescribing specific value positions or policy outcomes.

OCED 4350. Adult Development and Career Planning.

This course examines adult development, learning theory, and career transition theory as essential foundations for understanding educational and career pathways across the lifespan. Students will explore interdisciplinary perspectives on work and learning, engage with career planning and assessment tools, and practice goal setting to support the development of a professional growth plan. Emphasis is placed on analyzing how adult developmental theories shape decision-making, influence career transitions, and inform educational and career choices in varied personal and professional contexts. Through writing-intensive activities, students will reflect on their experiences, evaluate evidence, and articulate a coherent professional growth plan aligned with their evolving academic, career, and lifelong learning goals. Prerequisite: 2.25 Overall GPA and 2.25 Texas State GPA. Corequisite: OCED 3350 with a grade of "D" or better.

OCED 4360. Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Capstone Part 1.

This course introduces students to the development of a supervised capstone project conducted within a collaborative group environment. Under faculty guidance and oversight, student teams identify a professional workplace problem and conduct a systematic review of current literature to establish a theoretical foundation. Emphasis is placed on documentation, analysis, and the initial planning of major project components. Through structured support and task analysis, student teams analyze relevant research and produce written documentation demonstrating applied learning in their program field. Prerequisites: OCED 3350 and OCED 4350 both with grades of "C" or better and instructor approval. Corequisites: OCED 4361 with a grade of "C" or better.

OCED 4361. Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Capstone Part 2.

This course is the second part of a supervised undergraduate capstone experience devoted to the completion of the student’s group project. Working under faculty oversight, teams integrate the knowledge and professional competencies acquired throughout the degree program to address complex, real-world problems. The curriculum requires students to analyze their previous research, evaluate multiple potential solutions, and develop a comprehensive plan to resolve the identified problem. Students produce extensive written documentation, a comprehensive plan, and final report presentation reflecting the culmination of their academic learning and practical experience. Corequisite: OCED 4360 with a grade of "C" or better.