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State University of New York
at Binghamton
The State University of New York at Binghamton,
one of this country's distinguished public research universities, is known
for the excellence of its students, faculty, staff, and programs.
One of the four University Centers of the State University of New York,
Binghamton University (as it is usually known) offers academic programs
leading to the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Binghamton's
undergraduate and graduate programs are complementary, drawing upon nationally
recognized faculty to create an outstanding academic experience for students
at all levels.
A continuing commitment to the liberal arts forms the basis for undergraduate
instruction in the arts and sciences and in the professional programs of
nursing, engineering, management, and education. Graduate education and
research emphasize scholarly depth within the disciplines and among Binghamton's
unique interdisciplinary perspectives.
Binghamton University attracts an exceptionally talented student population
and challenges academically motivated students to work to their fullest
intellectual capacities. In all of its programs, the University seeks to
enhance the self-development of students so that they will become informed
and effective participants in public affairs and in all of their subsequent
educational and vocational pursuits. To that end, Binghamton provides a
challenging and supportive living and learning environment that encourages
students' active participation in residential life, in student organizations,
in recreational and athletic programs, and in cultural and social events.
As a public institution of higher education, Binghamton recognizes its responsibility
to build a multicultural campus community that encourages access to and
full participation in all aspects of University life and reflects in its
constituencies the broader society of which the University is a part.
In fall 1995, 9,281 undergraduates were enrolled at Binghamton University,
of whom 4,968 were women and 4,313 were men. Graduate enrollments totaled
2,697: 1,389 men and 1,308 women.
During the 1995-96 academic year, full-time teaching faculty members numbered
448, of whom 92 percent held the PhD or the appropriate terminal degree
in their fields. Both graduates and undergraduates are taught by a single
faculty whose members are committed to teaching, advising, and working closely
with students.
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History
The institution dates from 1946, when Triple Cities College opened in Endicott,
New York, five miles west of the present campus, as a branch of Syracuse
University. When the college was incorporated into the State University
of New York four years later, it was renamed Harpur College in honor of
Robert Harpur, a Colonial teacher, patriot, and pioneer, who devoted his
later years to settling the area around Binghamton.
Until 1953, Harpur College was one of only two public liberal arts colleges
in the state. In 1961 the campus was moved across the Susquehanna River
to Vestal. Growing enrollments and a reputation for excellence soon led
to the selection of Harpur College as one of four doctorate-granting University
Centers in the state system. In 1965 the campus was formally designated
the State University of New York at Binghamton.
Harpur College retained its identity as the undergraduate liberal arts and
sciences component of the University; it became the nucleus of an evolving
complex of graduate, research, and professional programs. Binghamton University's
professional schools now include the School of Education and Human Development,
the School of Management, the Decker School of Nursing, and the Thomas J.
Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science.
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The Campus
Binghamton is centrally located in New York, 45 miles from Ithaca, 70 miles
from Syracuse, and about 200 miles from both New York City and Philadelphia.
Routes I-81, I-88, and NY 17 converge near the city. The campus is set on
a wooded hillside near the Susquehanna River, one mile west of Binghamton.
Binghamton, Endicott, and Johnson City comprise the Triple Cities, an urban
metropolitan area that offers a sophisticated cultural life along with easily
accessible outdoor recreational opportunities. Major employers are IBM,
Martin Marietta, Hughes Training Inc./Link Division, United Health Services,
Universal Instruments, and the University itself.
Binghamton's modern campus is compactly designed, well maintained, and noted
for its scenic setting. The campus is arranged in an irregular oval, with
residential colleges on the periphery and classroom buildings in the center.
There are 82 buildings, all built since 1958.
The science laboratories are well equipped and allow students to practice
state-of-the-art experimental techniques in their courses and research projects.
Extensive and up-to-date computer support is readily available for research
and instruction at every level.
Facilities for fine and performing arts are exceptional. In addition to
several theaters and recital halls for the performing arts, there are music
listening and practice rooms, dance studios, and art, sculpture, printing,
and graphic arts facilities, including a bronze-casting foundry. The Theatre
and Music Departments present scores of plays and concerts. The University
Art Museum has a permanent collection of art representing all periods and
displays special loan exhibitions as well as the works of University artists.
The Anderson Center for the Arts offers a full schedule of concerts, dance
performances, and recitals by faculty, students, and internationally acclaimed
performers.
Extensive recreational and physical education opportunities are supported
by two gymnasia, both with swimming pools and one with an indoor track.
Outdoor facilities include playing fields, a track, a fitness trail, and
numerous tennis courts. The University has strong intercollegiate teams
in wrestling, track, basketball, tennis, and soccer. Intramural sports,
including Binghamton's famous "co-rec football," are especially
popular.
Binghamton's wooded campus includes the Nature Preserve, a 117-acre forest
and wetland area with a six-acre pond. This diverse natural habitat, containing
many forms of plant and animal life, provides special study and leisure
opportunities.
The campus takes pride in its modern library system with its online catalog
and sophisticated bibliographic database services. The collection currently
numbers more than three million bound volumes and microform, document, and
serial holdings and grows at an annual rate of more than 100,000 total items.
In addition to the main collection, housed in the Glenn G. Bartle and the
Science Libraries, there are the Fine Arts Library, the Max Reinhardt Archive
of theater materials, the Conole Archive of Recorded Sound, a map library,
and a substantial rare book collection. All libraries have open-stack access
to most volumes, study carrels, and pleasant reading lounges.
The University supports a number of research and organized activities centers
established to promote multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary sponsored
research involving faculty and students. Here, exceptional undergraduate
and graduate students have the opportunity to work side by side with postdoctoral
fellows, visiting scholars, and senior faculty in high-level research and,
not uncommonly, to publish the results of their findings.
The centers include: Center for Innovation in Learning and Teaching; Center
for Intelligent Systems; the Center for Cognitive and Psycholinguistic Sciences;
Center for Computing Technologies; Center for Developmental Psychobiology;
Center for Leadership Studies; Center for Medieval and Early Renaissance
Studies; Center for Nursing Research; Institute for Primary and Preventive
Health Care; Center for Research in Translation; Fernand Braudel Center
for the Study of Economies, Historical Systems, and Civilizations; Institute
for Global Cultural Studies; Institute for Materials Research; Institute
for Research on Multiculturalism and International Labor; and the Integrated
Electronics Engineering Center.
The University Union is the focal point for most social and recreational
activities on campus. It houses offices of many of Binghamton's student
organizations including the Student Association (undergraduate student government),
radio station WHRW-FM, television station BTV, and student publications.
Other facilities in the building are the Food Co-op, Campus Pub, several
dining areas, meeting rooms, and lounges.
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Accreditation
The State University of New York at Binghamton is registered by the Education
Department of the State of New York and is approved to grant the degrees
listed under Academic Programs, below. It is accredited by and holds membership
in the Middle States Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges. Binghamton's
nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing. All
programs in the School of Management are accredited by the American Assembly
of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The University's electrical engineering
and mechanical engineering programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation
Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET),
its engineering technology programs are accredited by the Technology Accreditation
Commission of ABET, and its Computer Science program is accredited by the
Computer Science Accreditation Board (CSAB). Requests to review licensing
and accreditation documents may be made through the Office of the President.
The campus has a chartered chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, as well as chapters
of many other national honor societies.
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Academic Programs
Undergraduate programs at Binghamton University are offered in Harpur College
of Arts and Sciences, the Decker School of Nursing, the School of Management,
the School of Education and Human Development, and the Thomas J. Watson
School of Engineering and Applied Science. All five schools also offer advanced
degrees. All advanced degree programs are administered by the Graduate School.
Programs lead to the bachelor of arts, bachelor of fine arts, bachelor of
science, bachelor of music, master of arts, master of arts in teaching,
master of business administration, master of music, master of science, master
of science in education, master of science in teaching, doctor of philosophy,
and doctor of education degrees.
At the 1995 commencement ceremonies, degrees were awarded as follows: in
Harpur College, 1480 bachelor's, 225 master's, and 89 PhD degrees; in the
Decker School, 105 bachelor's and 30 master's degrees; in Education and
Human Development, 162 bachelor's and 133 master's degrees; in Management,
320 bachelor's and 83 master's degrees; and in the Watson School, 191 bachelor's,
101 master's, and 15 PhD degrees.
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Harpur College of Arts and Sciences
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
Harpur College of Arts and Sciences is the original component of the complex
of schools that is now Binghamton University. The great majority of the
undergraduates on campus are enrolled in Harpur College, and those enrolled
in the other schools fulfill their liberal arts requirements in Harpur.
Harpur is organized in three principal divisions: humanities (including
fine arts), science and mathematics, and social sciences. All students select
some courses in each division and meet college-wide requirements in expository
writing.
Degree programs are offered in a broad range of traditional disciplines
as well as more innovative majors including Arabic, cinema, classical studies,
biochemistry, Judaic studies, medieval studies, and psychobiology. Undergraduates
may also select from several interdisciplinary concentrations.
Graduate Programs
The strength of the graduate programs in arts and sciences rests on the
high quality of a faculty distinguished for its scholarship as well as its
teaching. Graduate students typically learn in small seminars and prepare
their work with close supervision from faculty members. Departments assign
a faculty advisor to help new graduate students choose courses appropriate
to their program and interests; as students progress through coursework
toward research for a master's thesis or doctoral dissertation, they have
a mentor in their field of research.
As a selective University Center, Binghamton has 16 doctoral programs in
arts and sciences. In the humanities, students earn PhD degrees in art history,
comparative literature, English, and philosophy. In the social sciences,
PhD degrees are awarded in anthropology, economics, history, political science,
and sociology. In science and mathematics, students pursue doctoral studies
in biological sciences, chemistry, geological sciences, mathematical sciences,
and clinical psychology, experimental psychology, and psychobiology. These
doctoral programs help fulfill one of the University's crucial missions:
to prepare a professoriate ready to think through the problems of the future
and to contribute creativity and invention in a variety of disciplines.
All of these programs offer master's degrees as well, and many collaborate
with the School of Education and Human Development to offer MAT and MST
degrees for students who plan to teach at the secondary level. Some additional
programs in arts and sciences offer graduate work leading only to the master's
degree: music offers the MA and the MM; romance languages and literatures
offers MA study of French, Spanish, and Italian; physics, applied physics,
and astronomy offers the MA in theoretical and the MS in applied physics;
geography provides three tracks of study leading to the MA; theatre offers
the MA degree. Certificate programs, most often pursued in addition to a
degree program, emphasize interdisciplinary study in various fields. Master's-level
study prepares students for professional practice in a variety of fields
and encourages habits of reflection that lead some students to further study
in the discipline.
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School of Education and Human Development
The School of Education and Human Development (SEHD) provides undergraduate,
graduate, and continuing education programs to both traditional and nontraditional
full-time and part-time students. The school offers upper-division preprofessional
undergraduate programs in interdisciplinary social sciences, primarily for
transfer students; a graduate program in interdisciplinary social sciences;
several master's programs in education, most of which lead to teaching certification;
a doctorate in educational theory and practice; and noncredit continuing
education programs. Most courses, credit and noncredit, are offered during
the late afternoon and evening for working adult students and for those
serving internships in area schools and human service agencies.
The school's programs are housed in three divisions: education, human development,
and continuing studies. The translation of theory into practice and practice
into theory undergirds the teaching, research, scholarly productivity, and
public service of each division.
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School of Management
The School of Management offers degree programs to almost 1500 students
at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. Undergraduates choose between
bachelor of science degree programs in either management or accounting.
At the graduate level, an MBA, an MBA with a specialization in arts administration,
an MS in accounting, and a PhD degree are offered.
Both undergraduate programs offered by the School of Management stress breadth
of educational experience combined with the specialization. They require
liberal arts study at Harpur College, a sound foundation in basic management
disciplines, and an awareness of the legal, environmental, and societal
factors that affect decision-making in organizations. The two programs include
prominent coverage of ethical and international issues, and the use of computers
as a decision-making tool. Students receive valuable preprofessional training
as well as preparation for study in graduate or professional school.
The MBA program at Binghamton University is designed to meet the needs of
today's managers who are continually challenged by the dynamic changes occurring
in the corporate, public, and non-profit sectors. The MBA program, in addition
to offering training and background in the traditional functional areas
of business administration, emphasizes interdisciplinary decision making,
teamwork, internationalization, and social responsibility.
The MBA in arts administration includes the core MBA program and a specially
designed component covering the theory and practice of arts management.
The MS in accounting prepares students for work in the areas of public accounting
and management accounting. Like the BS in accounting, the MS program satisfies
the educational requirements for certified public accountants.
The school's PhD program offers concentrations in accounting, finance, marketing,
operations/production management, and organizational behavior/human resources.
Students can pursue an interest in management information systems by designing
an interdisciplinary program with one of the concentration areas or through
a joint information systems program with the Watson School of Engineering.
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Decker School of Nursing
The Decker School of Nursing offers programs leading to the bachelor of
science degree with the major in nursing, the master of science with the
major in nursing, and a post-master's certificate as preparation for the
nurse-practitioner role. All programs are accredited by the National League
for Nursing.
The bachelor's in nursing prepares graduates for first-level positions in
professional nursing practice in hospitals, community health, and other
health care agencies. Decker School students receive this preparation in
a four-year program consisting of a nursing major firmly grounded in the
liberal arts and sciences. Graduates are eligible for the national licensure
examination (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.
Baccalaureate students may be admitted as freshmen or as transfer students.
Transfer students may also be admitted to the liberal arts curriculum of
the University before entering the upper- division nursing curriculum. Registered-nurse
students are admitted as transfer students and may also enroll in prerequisite
courses before entering upper-division nursing coursework. An accelerated
12-month, three-semester option is offered to persons with an earned baccalaureate
or higher degree in another field who wish to make a career change to professional
nursing.
The Decker School's graduate students complete a 48-credit nursing program,
earning a master of science degree in nursing that prepares them with advanced
knowledge and clinical skills in family, community health, or gerontological
nursing. Students also select a functional-role emphasis: clinical nurse
specialist, administrator, educator, or nurse practitioner.
A post-master's nurse practitioner certificate is available to students
who already hold a master's degree in nursing and who desire preparation
as a nurse practitioner.
Students who hold a certificate as a nurse midwife and a baccalaureate degree
in nursing may complete requirements for a master's degree in nursing.
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Watson School of Engineering and
Applied Science
The Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science consists
of the Departments of Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical
Engineering, and Systems Science and Industrial Engineering. The Division
of Engineering Design is responsible for the freshman and sophomore year
program, which is common to both engineering majors. The school is housed
in a 60,000-square-foot building designed and equipped specifically for
studies in engineering and computer science.
The Watson School offers bachelor of science degrees in computer science,
electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.
Graduate students may pursue the master of science in computer science,
electrical engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering,
systems science, or applied science with specializations in engineering
materials and mechanical engineering. The school offers the doctor of philosophy
in computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and
systems science (with an optional specialization in manufacturing systems).
The Watson School's undergraduate programs combine a strong theoretical
base with extensive practical application through laboratory and design
projects as well as some internships. Modern computer facilities support
these programs. Students are encouraged to obtain technical experience in
local industry during the summer.
The graduate program, with many evening courses to accommodate professionals
from local industry, provides strong research opportunities in the areas
of electronics packaging, computing technologies, and intelligent systems.
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The Graduate School
The Graduate School administers all advanced degree programs offered in
Harpur College, School of Management, School of Education and Human Development,
Decker School, and Watson School. The Graduate School prepares students
for scholarly study, advanced research, teaching, and professional leadership.
The Graduate School was formally established by the faculty in 1975, and
is under the administration of the vice provost for graduate studies and
teaching. The faculty of the Graduate School comprises all full professors,
associate professors, and assistant professors in departments and schools
offering instructional programs leading to advanced degrees. The governing
body of the Graduate School is the Graduate Council.
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University Summer Session
The Summer Session is composed of three terms within a 10-week period (term
I, late May-June; term II, July-August; term III, variable dates) during
which a wide variety of courses is scheduled in most upper- and lower-division
areas of the University curriculum. A Summer Session Bulletin issued in
the early spring, lists and describes the courses to be offered. Students
may earn up to 16 hours of academic credit during a summer program (maximum
of eight credits in term I and maximum of eight credits in term II excluding
physical education credits). They are eligible to apply for the Tuition
Assistance Program if they are matriculated, enrolled in at least six credit
hours, and are New York State residents. Students may also apply for Federal
Direct Loan if they are registered at least half-time. The director of continuing
education and summer programs (located in the Public Service Programs Center)
coordinates and administers the summer term's offerings. The Academic Advising
Office is the central advising service for undergraduates enrolled in summer
coursework.
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Inter-Institutional Cooperation
Efforts are made to provide Binghamton students and their instructors with
opportunities to learn through study, research, and service in cooperation
with other educational institutions. These include overseas study programs;
five-year programs with schools of engineering; cross- registration with
Broome Community College; and intercampus doctoral exchange with the universities
at Albany, Buffalo, and Stony Brook, CUNY, and the College of Environmental
Science and Forestry.
The University library is a member of the Research Libraries Group and the
Center for Research Libraries, nonprofit organizations operated and maintained
by member institutions to increase the library and research materials available
to their readers.
Computing services provide additional computing services to other campuses
and community colleges in the SUNY system.
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Cross-Registration Agreement
The cross-registration agreement is a cooperative arrangement permitting
full-time students at Binghamton University and at Broome Community College
to cross-register for up to two courses per year. Opportunities for cross-registration
are available only during the two regular semesters of the academic year.
Students pay full tuition at their home campus, but no additional tuition
costs are involved. Cross-registration ordinarily is permitted only for
courses not available at the student's home campus, and no priority is given
to cross-registration requests. Students must receive prior approval from
the Academic Advising Office at Binghamton University before registering
at Broome Community College. Please contact the Academic Advising Office
for further details.
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Study Abroad Programs
Binghamton University encourages students to study abroad as valuable preparation
for an increasingly interdependent world. The programs provide opportunities
to live and learn in societies around the world. Semester, academic year,
summer, or intersession options may be selected. Many disciplines are represented
and study in the major is normally possible and encouraged. Graduate study
may be possible at some sites.
Binghamton University currently sponsors the following study-abroad programs:
Aarhus, Denmark. An unusual opportunity to study in English at a
Danish university is available through an exchange program with the University
of Aarhus. Courses in European studies and the literatures and culture of
the English-speaking world are taught in English. Binghamton students are
in classes with Danish and European students studying these subjects. They
live with Danish students and are included in all university activities.
Instruction in Danish language and culture is also available and encouraged.
The program is most likely to appeal to students with interests in history,
literature, politics, international relations, women's studies and post-colonial
cultural studies.
Belize Internships. Pre-professional internships in the fields of
public policy, health, communications, environmental studies, small business
development, and social services take place fall and spring semesters in
the Central American country of Belize. The internships deal with various
facets of political, economic, and social development in the context of
the cultural pluralism that is traditional in Belize. English is the official
language, but Creole and Spanish are widely spoken as well. Students live
with Belizean families. This program is co-sponsored with the State University
of New York College at Cortland.
Edinburgh, Scotland. Students in any major participate in an exchange
program at the University of Edinburgh, directly enrolling in regular university
courses in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. This program is
most appropriate for academic year study during the junior or senior year.
Graz, Austria. The Karl-Franzens-Universität in Graz is the
affiliate for this fall semester program. A full academic program consists
of three specially arranged courses for SUNY students, and additional courses
chosen by the student from the regular offerings of the Graz host institution.
All instruction is in German. Tutorials and additional instruction in German
are provided as needed. Students in the program may continue their studies
at Graz during the spring semester. The program is open to students in all
disciplines who have taken at leaset two years of German. This program is
based in the Department of German, Russian, and East Asian Languages.
Istanbul, Turkey. Binghamton University's exchange program with Bosphorus
University in Istanbul, Turkey. offers an opportunity to explore
a fascinating and important world region, where Europe and the Middle East
meet. Students enroll in one of Turkey's leading institutions, taking regular
university courses, living with Turkish students, and participating in university
activities. All instruction is in English. Semester, academic year, and
summer options are available. Courses on global topics, the Middle East,
and Europe are of particular interest.
Leipzig, Germany. Students participate in an exchange program with
the University of Leipzig, directly enrolling in regular university courses.
A wide selection of courses is available in the humanities, social sciences,
and sciences with programs in communications and business administration
which may be of particular interest. Semester or academic year participation
is possible for students with three years of college-level German or the
equivalent.
London, England. This spring semester program is held at the Florida
State University London Center in the Bloomsbury section of London. Usually
two Binghamton University English professors accompany the participants
and offer several courses in literature and theater. Additional courses
in history and art history are offered by British faculty. An internship
program is also available. The program is open to all students with at least
sophmore standing, whether or not they are English majors. This program
is based in the Department of English, General Literature, and Rhetoric.
Lyon, France. Binghamton University's exchange program with the
Université Jean Moulin, Lyon 3 offers advanced undergraduate and
graduate students the opportunity to enroll directly in one of France's
well known universities for the academic year. Courses are available in
the humanities, social sciences, and management. Participants will need
a strong background in French language.
Northern Ireland. An exchange program with the University of Ulster in Northern
Ireland allows students to take regular university courses at any one of
four University of Ulster campuses. Courses in a wide array of disciplines
are available in the humanities, social sciences, sciences, and management.
Special programs in peace and conflict resolution and Irish studies are
of particular interest. Semester or academic year options are most appropriate
for juniors and seniors in any major.
Norwich, England. Philosophy, Politics, and Law in Britain. This
program focuses on European thought and its impact on legal, political,
and social institutions in Britain. The distinguished School of Economics
and Social Studies at the University of East Anglia (UEA) is host. UEA is
located in the city of Norwich, two hours north of London. Program participants
take courses with British and other European students, live in university
residence halls and are included in all university activities. Students
in any major with interests in legal studies, philosophy, politics, history,
and economics may wish to consider this option.
Tangier, Morocco. This semester or academic year program is affiliated
with the King Fahd School of Translation and emphasizes Arabic and Middle
Eastern studies. At Binghamton University it is administered jointly by
the Department of Classical and Near Eastern Studies and the Middle East
and North African (MENA) Studies Program.
Binghamton students may also study abroad on programs sponsored by other
campuses of the State University of New York. Programs are available in
most world regions: Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa,
Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, and Oceania. Credit earned through
coursework on other SUNY programs are SUNY credits and transferable to Binghamton.
Students in such programs are required to register and pay full tuition
at Binghamton for the period of study spent abroad.
Students are urged to begin planning for a study abroad experience as early
as possible, ideally in the freshman year. Study abroad may fulfill requirements
for the international studies certificate program (see below) or for international
concentrations in some majors. For further information, contact the Office
of International Programs (OIP), Rockefeller Center, G-1.
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International Studies Certificate Program
Students desiring to complete a certificate in international studies may
obtain information and the application form from the school advisor of their
respective school or from the director of the international studies certificate
program (ISCP).
A. Foreign Language: eight credits beyond the elementary language
level I and II, or equivalent as determined by a proficiency exam with approval
of the director. However, a minimum of one course (four credits) in the
language, taken in residency at Binghamton University, is required.
B. International Focus Distribution Courses (non-language skills):
eight credits in multi-cultural or cross-cultural disciplinary areas of
which up to four credits may be met by participation in a Languages Across
the Curriculum (LxC) course. These courses must be outside the student's
major or principal concentration and selected in consultation with the program
director.
C. Experiential Learning: one to four credits. A minimum of six
weeks of either (1) university level study abroad or (2) work internship
(in the U.S. or abroad) in a setting where knowledge of a second language
in addition to the student's first language is useful.
D. Independent Study: one credit. The certificate candidate must
submit a portfolio consisting of all of the student's certificate-relevant
work (essays, reports, term papers), plus a personal statement (three to
five pages minimum) reflecting upon the significance of the student's certificate
experience. The independent study supervisor will be either the international
studies director, the ISCP advisor from the respective school or a faculty
sponsor from the student's major or concentration.
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Languages Across the Curriculum Program
Binghamton's Languages Across the Curriculum (LxC) Program provides unique
opportunities for students to apply and enhance their skills (mostly reading)
in languages other than English in courses outside of the language departments.
The primary premise of the LxC program is that foreign languages should
be actively used throughout the University and that their use should be
linked to the disciplinary interests of students. The program provides the
necessary resources and support for students at all levels to employ their
foreign language skills in a variety of academic contexts.
The long-term goal of LxC is to bring about a situation where students can
use any foreign language they know in any class at any level anywhere in
the University curriculum. In the last three years LxC has supported undergraduate
courses in all three divisions of Harpur College and graduate and undergraduate
courses in the international business and accounting programs of the School
of Management. Supported languages in one or more of these courses have
included Chinese, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean,
Russian, and Spanish. Courses in which LxC options will be available are
identified in the Student Course Guide and various other published academic
program descriptions each semester.
Faculty, regardless of their individual language proficiency, offer LxC
options in their courses to broaden and enliven course content by including
foreign-language materials. Such materials, which are used in 10 to 20 percent
of the assignments in an LxC-supported course, provide intercultural perspectives
and foster language skills in the students who select an available LxC option.
Language resource specialists, who are selected for their linguistic background
and disciplinary expertise, prepare assignments utilizing non-English resource
materials. In addition to locating topically appropriate materials and constructing
class assignments around them, the language resource specialists meet (usually
one hour per week) with participating students to help them understand the
foreign-language materials and relate them to the course content. The LxC
staff trains, assists, and supervises the language resource specialists
in these tasks.
Participating students perform LxC assignments in place of the exclusively
English-based assignments they would otherwise perform. Except for the weekly
study-group meeting with a language resource specialist, the workload for
LxC-participating students is (on average) the same as the workload for
non-participating students.
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Libraries
The University Library System comprises several units, each dedicated to
the common goal of meeting the diverse information needs of the University
community. These libraries are:
· the Glenn G. Bartle Library, encompassing collections in the social
sciences, humanities, mathematical and computer sciences, government documents,
and special collections;
· the Science Library, containing materials in all fields of science,
engineering, and housing the University map collection;
· the Fine Arts Collection, focusing on works relating to art, music,
theater, and cinema;
· and one collegiate library in Hinman residential college with attractive
study spaces.
The total collections include:
Bound volumes/1,505,000
Documents/380,000 pieces
Microforms/1,402,000 units
Sound recordings/103,000
Maps/121,000
Serial subscriptions/9,358
Access to the collections is provided by ELIXIR, a computerized catalog
and circulation system with terminals in each building. ELIXIR is also available
to students and campus offices through the University's computer network
and to off-campus work-stations via modem.
The libraries' collections are supplemented by memberships in several resource-sharing
consortia, including the Research Libraries Group, the Center for Research
Libraries, and the Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social
Research. Such partnerships, carefully integrated to the borrowing services
traditionally provided through the interlibrary loan office, greatly expand
the range of materials available for scholarship and research.
The libraries are committed to providing access to the constantly increasing
amount of information available in electronic formats. These include a broad
range of CD-ROM databases, the wealth of resources and services available
via the Internet, and other resources, accessible through the library information
system, such as journal and newspaper indexes, directories, and full-text
and numeric databases.
Highly qualified librarians, with specific expertise in reference, instruction
and subject disciplines, are available to assist students and faculty in
using this wide range of electronic and printed resources. Point-of-use
instruction at the reference desks, library instruction seminars and classes,
and individual consultations provide orientation to library services, collections,
and information technologies.
Circulation of Materials
Materials held by the Binghamton University Libraries are circulated to
the University community according to rules that ensure the widest access
to information. All books charged out may be renewed at the end of the loan
period provided they have not been requested by another patron. All renewals
must be made in person. Any item in circulation may be recalled immediately
if needed for Reserve, after two weeks or if requested by another patron.
Patrons may place a "hold" on a charged item and will be notified
when the item is available. United States federal documents circulate for
a four-week loan period to all citizens.
Binghamton University Borrowers
On presentation of a validated University ID card, the following privileges
are extended:
Faculty and professional staff, Clinical Campus Faculty, Emeritus/Emerita
Faculty, and Management Confidential, University Council, Volunteer: Limit
of 100 items at any one time. Books, microforms, and government documents
may be borrowed with a June due date. Bound periodicals may be circulated
for three days; current periodicals are due at 5 p.m. the day borrowed.
PhD Students: Limit of 100 items at any one time. Books, microforms, and
government documents may be borrowed with a June due date. PhD students
only, who have passed PhD qualifying examinations and applied for extended
Library privileges may borrow bound periodicals for a three-day loan period;
current issues are available for in-library use.
Graduate Students: Limit of 100 items at any one time. Books, microforms,
and government documents may be borrowed for a eight-week loan period. Bound
and current periodicals are available for in-library use.
Undergraduate Students, BCC cross-registered students, Adult Leaners, University
staff, Marriott and Barnes & Noble Employees, Campus Pre-School: Limit
of 50 items at any one time. Books, microforms and government documents
may be borrowed for a four-week loan period. Bound and current periodicals
are available for in-library use.
Courtesy Borrowers
Courtesy borrowers do not have recall, reserve or interlibrary loan privileges
Local Citizens: New York State residents living within a 50-mile radius
of the campus may apply for borrowing privileges. Verification of social
security number and home address is required. A $10 annual processing fee
is assessed. There is a limit of three books at any one time. Books may
be borrowed for a four-week loan period.
Alumni: Binghamton University Alumni are eligible for borrowing privileges.
Verification of social security number and home address is required. There
is a limit of three books at any one time. Books, microforms and government
documents may be borrowed for a four-week loan period.
SUNY/CUNY Open Access (including Clinical Campus Students, Empire State
College Students and University in the High Schools Program students): Any
current faculty, staff or student member of a SUNY or CUNY institution or
participating community college is entitled to borrowing privileges upon
presentation of a validated SUNY or CUNY ID card. Limit of 50 items at any
one time. Books, microforms and government documents may be borrowed for
a four-week loan period. SUNY/CUNY Open Access students have Reserve borrowing
privileges. Delinquencies will be reported to the home institution library.
For other categories of Courtesy Borrowers, consult the Main Library circulation
desk staff.
Library Policies
Food and drink are not permitted in the libraries. Patrons found with such
items will be asked to remove them immediately from the building or to turn
them over to a library staff member. Use of chewing tobacco or snuff is
prohibited in the library.
Damaged or vandalized library materials are of increasing concern. If the
library staff determines that damage of returned materials has resulted
from patron neglect or abuse, replacement or rebinding costs will be assessed.
It is the official policy of the library to discourage noise in the library
in order to maintain quiet for study and reading. Due to the nature of library
services, the reference desk areas will be less quiet than others. When
necessary, staff members may ask users to be quiet or leave the area.
Use of photographic equipment in Library stack and study areas require the
prior approval of the Library Director or designee. Forms are available
at the Main and Science Library circulation desks.
The main library has a paging system that is used to assist with closing
procedures. Use in emergency situations requires the prior authorization
of the Department of Public Safety.
Library materials may not be taken from the library unless those materials
have been properly checked out or other authorization for removal has been
given. The willful mutilation or unauthorized removal of library materials
is subject to prosecution under New York State law. The library is equipped
with an electronic security system to deter theft. In addition, identified
library staff may search bags, briefcases, etc. at the library's exit to
assure compliance with these regulations.
Information regarding Binghamton borrowers is considered confidential. Requests
for disclosure of information will be denied and referred for review by
University counsel in consultation with Albany.
Copycards may be purchased for use in library photocopiers and microform
copiers. Cash refunds and refunds for unused amounts on copycards are not
given.
When library equipment malfunctions occur, to obtain a refund, a problem
must be reported to the Main or Science Library circulation desk on the
same day the problem occurs.
Reserve Materials
At the request of faculty, materials are placed in the Reserve collection
of the Josiah T. Newcomb Reserve Reading Room or the Science Library. Loan
periods, established in consultation with the faculty member, are usually
two hours, one day, or two days. The loan period pertaining to each item
is clearly indicated when it is charged out.
Reserve materials are only available to current Binghamton University faculty,
staff, students, adult leaners, and current SUNY/CUNY Open Access faculty,
staff and students.
Fine Structure
A fine system is enforced to assure all patrons maximum access to library
materials. Repeated, flagrant violations will be considered cause for suspension
of borrowing privileges.
Overdue books: 10¢ per day to a maximum of $10 per item.
Recall fines: $1 per day, beginning four days after the recall notice is
mailed, to a maximum of $15 per item.
Reserve fines: $2 for the first hour or part thereof; $1 for each additional
hour or part thereof to a maximum of $9 for the first day. After the first
day there is a maximum of $3 per day.
Overdue interlibrary loan books: 10¢ per day for the first five days;
$1 per day thereafter.
Lost-book fees: Consult the Library Fines Office. Replacement fees reflect
the current market value of the missing book plus a processing fee.
Lost book charges are assessed when a borrower declares a book lost, on
books overdue for more than one year, and in response to borrower inquires.
A request for Review of Library Obligation may be submitted for any fines
or obligations in dispute. Forms are available at the Bartle and Science
Library circulation desks and in the library cashier's office.
Notification and Responsibility
Communications to faculty, staff, and students regarding fines, overdue
books, and recalls are sent to the address provided by the University Registrar's
Office or the Personnel Office. Overdue and fine notices are sent as a courtesy
reminder; failure to receive a notice does not absolve the borrower from
responsibility to return material or to pay the overdue fine.
Patrons are responsible for all transactions charged with their ID cards.
Lost ID cards must be reported to the Circulation Department in either Bartle
or Science Library.
On request, the library will provide a written receipt at the time that
books are returned to the Reserve Desk or to the Circulation Desks at Bartle
and Science Libraries. The absence of a receipt does not imply failure to
return a book.
Interlibrary Loan Services
Interlibrary loan services are available for the University faculty, staff,
graduate students, and, in special circumstances, undergraduate students,
in support of research activities. When complete monographic works are obtained
in photocopy format, they become the property of the library. Costs assessed
by the lending library which exceed $5 per item will be passed on to the
requester.
Fee-Based Literature Searching and Document Delivery
The libraries provide access to remote bibliographic, numeric, and textual
databases, many of which are available exclusively in electronic format.
Some include a document delivery feature, for a cost paid by the user. Some
databases not available directly to the public may be searchable by the
library staff for a fee. The fee for this service is usually $10 for faculty,
staff, and students. Searches are done in the Bartle Online and Data Services
Office, and the Science Library.
For further information, please contact Bartle Reference (x2345) or Science
Reference (x2163) 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
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Computing Services
Binghamton's Computing Services, located in the Computer Center Building,
provides central computing support to academic, instructional, and research
programs and to campus administrative offices. Major computing equipment
includes central hosts as well as file servers, advanced workstations, and
personal computers linked through a campus-wide communications network.
To assist students and faculty with computing, Computing Services staff
teach short courses, consult or advise on computer software and hardware
problems, write and distribute manuals, and maintain an extensive software
library.
The terminal and microcomputer complexes located in the Engineering Building,
Science II and Science III and the School of Management serve the majority
of student users on campus. Workstations and terminals are also located
in other areas on campus including the Watson School, collegiate libraries,
and residence halls. Data communications are available both on and off campus.
Approximately 90% of all enrolled students use the computer for course-related
work in a given semester. Binghamton's overall strategy is to provide students
with exposure to diverse computing hardware and software. Students are encouraged
to use the computer as an appropriate tool and, more fundamentally, as a
flexible vehicle for liberal arts education. With the addition of multimedia
use for classes and World Wide Web access from most computers on campus,
the computer has enriched many aspects of the curriculum.
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