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Academic Affairs

Academic Affairs

01/27/2022 2:46 pm

JACCE & CBL

Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement

The Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement (JACCE) advances the ideals of Rockford University through the study and practice of citizenship, service, and lifelong learning. We work to connect the classroom to the community, while emphasizing community building and lifetime partnerships.

Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement


Community-Based Learning

Community-based learning (sometimes called service-learning) links the classroom to the community in an experiential learning process. In community-based learning (CBL), the professor, the students, and the community agency learn collaboratively while helping the Rockford community.

JACCE 2021 CBL Handbook
CBL Approval Form for Fall 2021 Classes
CBL Civic Engagement Value Rubric
• CBL at RU handout
CBL Newsletter Fall 2019
Finding a Community Partner
• Response to College Learning and Democracy’s Future

Anti-Racist Pedagogy

Anti-Racist Pedagogy

Dear students, faculty, and staff:

I have this reoccurring dream where I am driving on a highway and enter a turn too fast.  I start to lose control of the car and go off the road.  It is often open grass, a field, or a large open ditch.  I wake up before I hit anything.  I am having it more often as of late. 

It is not too hard to interpret.  Life moves fast and before we know it we are forced to pivot but momentum makes it difficult to change course.  Sometimes that momentum is shear force.  Kinetic energy.  Other times that momentum is years of behavior and stagnancy that we have come to see as normal and inevitable.  And other times the curve ahead of us is simply and completely unexpected. 

Whatever the case, 2020 has provided its share, one might even say plethora (if this word does not make you smile, you need to go right home and watch The Three Amigos), of unexpected turns.  And one unexpected turn that is quite welcome is that we have made it to midterms and are still on campus!

Realizing that milestone, in just the last two days I sat down with both faculty leadership and student leadership to check in.  To hear their stories.  In both cases, the level of stress and concern was palpable. Students and faculty alike stressed over what feels like double the work for same result.  They expressed concern as to how the semester will play out and what to expect for the spring.  

And here is the thing: there is no way of knowing.  It is very likely that we may get to the point of finally feeling as though all is moving along only to look up and once again see a fast approaching curve that we feel unprepared to navigate.  There is simply no way to get around that reality. 

But here is another thing: we are here.  In school.  In session.  Teaching.  Learning.  We are at the midpoint.  And the opportunity exists for all of us to look inward, readjust, and continue to navigate those turns as best we can, as well as learn from those previous turns that had us scrambling, hearts racing, waiting for a paved and familiar road on which to return. 

And I imagine such navigation will go better if we are direct with one-another.  If we not only consider but also inquire directly as to one-another’s perspectives and positions.  I imagine that we will be better served by seeking solutions and working together rather than giving in to the very understandable yet unproductive path of complaining and worrying about what we cannot control.  The turns will come, at times unannounced.  And we may have to simply accept that we will be driving a bit out of control in a ditch or field prior to finding the road once again.

We jumped into last half of last spring with nary a week’s notice.  We had summer to prepare for this fall – yet consider that we were preparing for something completely unknown and unpredictable.  We did some things well.  Some things not so well.  Let us learn so we can do better the second half of this semester.  Let us learn so we can do even better in the spring.  But this only happens if we are direct and present and respectful with one-another.

So turn on your video feed when on Zoom if feasible.  Increase personal interaction when possible.  Continue to spread grace to one-another.  Move beyond the temptation to simply decry how difficult it all is – rather, work with one-another to remind ourselves that while the difficulty will not end, while the challenges will not cease to arise, that we are fortunate to not only have one-another, but we are also fortunate to be here. 

And unlike so many in our country, in our city, and even in our families, we are working.  We are attending school.  We are learning.  We are living.  And that is a beautiful thing.  Just recall that retaining and nourishing beautiful things often includes difficulty, uncertainty, and hard work.   And all three of those traits are better done together. 

Peace.  Best.  Smile.  Later.  Sincerely.  Live Long and Prosper.  (or really any sign-off of your choice),

Provost Perry

Psychology Degree

09/08/2020 10:56 pm

Students with professor

PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology is the study of the human mind and behavior. If you’re interested in how human beings operate, a psychology degree can grant you key insights into these questions. You’ll learn what motivates human behavior by developing your critical thinking and problem-solving skills through a multi-faceted approach to learning. Through this psychology degree, you’ll amplify your ability to conduct rigorous research, help others, and also manage people. So, the principles of psychology have applications in a variety of fields. 

Why Study Psychology? 

Most employers value the skills that are developed through studying psychology. These skills include the ability to offer analytical insights, skilled reasoning, and effective communication. Even if you choose not to pursue a career as a practicing psychologist, employers will always be interested in employees with these skill sets. For instance, many people with psychology degrees find successful careers in healthcare, human resources, management, or marketing.

Psychology can also open the doors to more specialized education. Many of those with psychology degrees can choose from a range of graduate training opportunities: 

  • Clinical psychology 
  • Counseling psychology 
  • Educational psychology 
  • Forensic psychology 
  • Organization psychology 

While a degree can act as a road map for your chosen career path, the value of your degree does not solely lie in how quickly it takes you to your eventual employers. This is especially true with the study of psychology. 

Humans are a complex species with wants, needs, and behaviors that differentiate and integrate us with other animals. We can make good choices for bad reasons and bad choices for good reasons. We use language to both convince and deter, and the way we interact with each other can often define who we are as individuals. 

Psychology helps you understand this. It won’t partner every interaction you have with absolute clarity, but it can give you a window into behavior, motivations, and perceptions. It grants you perspective, which can allow you to develop closer relationships with practically everyone you meet. 

Of course, you can’t remove yourself from the psychological equation, either. Through the study of psychology and its principles, you’ll be able to identify your own hidden influences and motivations. This can make you a better communicator to friends, family, employers, and with yourself.  

What Can You Do with A Psychology Degree? 

A degree in psychology opens the door to a multitude of opportunities. Even if you choose not to pursue a master’s degree or more specialist education, you’ll find any number of careers are available to you: 

  • Behavioral disorder counselors 
  • Community service operations 
  • Correctional treatment specialists 
  • Family or marriage therapists 
  • Mental health counselors 
  • Probation officers 
  • Rehabilitation counselors 
  • Social services operations 
  • Social workers 
  • Substance abuse counselors 

With such a wide range of possible careers, you’ll find that your future earning potential will vary. Marriage and family therapists earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 according to 2019 survey data conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Meanwhile, according to the BLS, industrial-occupational psychologists earn a median annual salary of around $93,000.

As stated above, a psychology degree allows for more specialized education at the master’s and doctorate levels. As you progress through these advanced degrees, you’ll find an increased earning potential along with the increased odds of reaching high levels of your chosen career path. 

Why Rockford University? 

At Rockford University, we take a cross-discipline approach to education. We combine classroom learning from world-class educators with real-life experience alongside experts in the field. Our diverse student body also gives students the ability to learn from each other and gain an additional perspective. 

To see all that Rockford University can offer, schedule a personal visit today. You can also request additional information through our website. 

Students in the Psychology Department develop an understanding of human thought and behavior through active learning. Our interdisciplinary approach, grounded in science, research and reflection, encourages self-exploration and engagement with the community. This challenging course of study empowers students to develop to their fullest potential socially, emotionally and intellectually.

 

Psychology
Starr Science Building
5050 E. State St.
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4172
Fax:815-394-5166

Joel Lynch, Ph.D.
JLynch@rockford.edu

Faculty Stories

06/26/2020 12:08 pm

Spring 20 Issue

Faculty Stories

Faculty Notes

Class Notes

In Memoriam

Changing Course: Rockford University Faculty and the COVID Pivot

The swift spread of COVID-19 required colleges and universities nationwide to shut down campuses and reshape teaching and learning in the midst of the spring 2020 semester. The daunting task of pivoting to online learning while maintaining the student engagement Rockford University is known for, fell to faculty members and support staff.

Rockford faculty made it clear from the start that they intended to have their students finish the semester successfully. However, they needed time to transform their courses to an online format.

The University extended spring break by a week to support the transformation from face-to-face classes to online learning. Faculty and staff engaged in technology training and collaborated with peers to address unique challenges such as lab, studio, and activity courses. The transformation demanded creative approaches to nearly every aspect of teaching and learning, and on March 23, 2020, Rockford University completed its transition to online education.

With the spring 2020 semester complete, faculty members took a moment to share their insights about the unexpected pivot to online teaching and learning.  

Farewell to the Needle and Thread

Farewell to the Needle and Thread

Rockford University Costume Designer Takes Last Bow By Aris Sherwood Walk into the lobby of Maddox Theatre in the Clark Arts Center at Rockford University, and you will find mannequins dressed in costumes of shows past. Underneath them are the designers’ names...

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Kelly Monson, Ed.D, Assistant Professor of Education

Kelly Monson, Ed.D, Assistant Professor of Education

As the effects of COVID-19 began to settle into our environment, I vowed to provide a safe and inclusive atmosphere, to foster relationships, and to individualize the learning experience for my students. My first priority was to find a balance between maintaining...

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Deepshikha Shukla, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Physics

Deepshikha Shukla, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Physics

Catalyst: An entity that causes change. ​I have been teaching for nearly ten years. The role of a teacher is clear: to be a catalyst that shapes the future of the next generation. I had established a norm for my teaching by combining interactive lecture sessions with...

read more

TEAS Exam Request

02/21/2020 6:14 pm

TEAS Exam Testing Information:

  • At this time ATI TEAS exam scores from an online exam will not be accepted. TEAS exams must be taken in person by appointment only.
  • Testing will only be offered on dates listed on the Spring 2024 – How to Register to take the TEAS Exam.
  • Testing will be held in the Howard Colman Library, Main Floor. Check-in will be at the Circulation Desk.
  • The exam will begin promptly at the time designated on the exam schedule. Students must check in no later than 15 minutes before the exam start time to allow for the onboarding process.
  • On testing day, you are required to bring a valid ID (i.e. RU ID, driver’s license, passport) with a current photograph.
  • Use of electronic devices of any kind are prohibited including during examination breaks. Devices include but are not limited to, cell phones, digital or smart watches, fitness bands, and any other device with recording, internet, or communication capabilities. All devices must be powered off and stored outside of the testing environment. If a student is found with any unapproved items after testing begins, the testing session will be terminated immediately. Additionally, you will be asked to show your exam environment by using your device’s camera to scan the room in which you are testing.
  • Personal items of any kind, including but not limited to purses, computer bags, backpacks, and duffle bags are prohibited in testing spaces. All items must be stored outside of the testing environment.
  • Apparel, including jackets, hoodies, sweaters, coats, hats, and sunglasses are not permitted in the testing environment. Discretionary allowances may be made for religious apparel. All apparel is subject to inspection by the proctor.
  • Food and drink of any kind are prohibited in the testing environment.
  • For more information about testing rules and procedures, please see the CLS Testing Regulations and the RU Academic Integrity Policy in the embedded links.
  • Dictionary use and the use of course books or notes are prohibited. Also, students may not browse the Internet or access any outside websites.
  • ATI log-in information: For the online TEAS test create a student account at https://www.atitesting.com/ before the test date and have your log-in information with you.
  • TEAS Exam results are valid for 6 months from the date the exam is taken.
  • Payment information: Before taking the exam, $65 is to be made payable to Rockford University SAS. Proof of payment is required before the administration of the exam. Rockford University Student Administrative Services (SAS) are located on the main level of Nelson Hall. SAS can be reached at 815.394.3700, email sas@rockford.edu. The cost of the TEAS exam will increase to $70 starting June 1, 2024.
  • There are several resources to help prepare for the TEAS Exam. TEAS Exam Preparation Materials
  • For additional questions, you may directly contact the College of Math, Science, and Nursing Office at 815.226.4126, or the Center for Learning Strategies at CLSExams@rockford.edu.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
The In-Person TEAS Exam onboard for Spring 2024 begins at 12:15 p.m. Testing is 12:30 to 4 p.m. on the exam date options.
Does student have an Accommodations Plan through Lang Health?*
Has $65 Fee been paid to SAS?*
Max. file size: 100 MB.

Student Opportunity Fund

01/17/2020 3:14 pm

The Rockford University Student Opportunity Fund (SOF) provides financial support for curricular or co-curricular activities/projects with an academic component. These projects enhance the student experience and augment the University’s academic program.

Undergraduate students have access to a cumulative total $3000 over their academic lifetime at the university. Graduate students have access to a cumulative total of $1000. Students can apply for individual awards based on tiers (levels) of funding. Rockford University students can also apply for SOF funds to host an academic event on campus (Tier IV). These awards do not count as individual awards.

Faculty and Staff leading group trips should click on the “Faculty Staff” button for information.

 

Identified an opportunity/project yet?

RU students can apply for SOF funding for a myriad of projects that cover a host of opportunities such as:
— Research and creative activities
— Conference presentation and attendance
— Off-campus study—international or domestic
— Activity directly connected to a class or academic program
— Hosting an academic event on campus (these kinds of project are considered Tier IV and have a different application)

Questions?

Contact

SOF@Rockford.edu

Deadlines for the academic year are the first day of September, October, November, December, February, March, April, and May. Awards are made on a first-come first-serve basis.

Registrar

10/11/2018 4:53 pm

The Registrar’s Office posts the class schedule for the University and is responsible for the administration of faculty policies on degree requirements and eligibility of Dean’s List and Distinguished Scholars.

Transcript Request

Transcripts, enrollment and degree verification are handled through Student Administrative Services (SAS). All requests must be in writing with your signature. The Transcript Request Form may be typed out, then printed, signed, mailed, hand delivered or faxed. Please fill out this form in its entirety; unsigned and incomplete forms will not be processed. The fee is $5.00 per transcript; duplicate requests may result in multiple processing fees. Faxed requests must include credit card information. If you have any questions related to transcript request orders, please contact Student Administrative Services (SAS) at 815-394-3700 or SAS@rockford.edu.

Transcript Request Form (pdf)

Mail to:
Student Administrative Services
Rockford University
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL  61108

Fax to:  815-394-5174

Additional Resources

Office of the Registrar
Howard Colman Library
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815-394-5241
Cory Espensen, Registrar
cespensen@rockford.edu

Instructional Design

09/20/2018 1:25 pm

Instructional Designer, Office for Academic Affairs

 

The office of the Instructional Designer is located on the main floor of the Howard Colman Library, along the far right wall.

 

Some of the services that the Instructional Designer provides include:

  • Assistance with Canvas course support
  • Usage of electronic course evaluations
  • Instructional Design elements within courses
  • Proofreading of course content
  • Educational Technology support

 

The Instructional Designer is available by appointment, by phone, by email, and as needed. Feel free to stop in!

 

Help and Resources

 

How do I get help with Canvas as an instructor?

 

How do I get help with Canvas as a student?

Tips from the I.D.

 

Smart phone users can download Canvas apps to their device! Search your iOS or Google app store for “Canvas Student” or “Canvas Teacher.” Once you download and sign into the app, you can access all of your RU Canvas courses.

Instructional Designer

 

Chris Brown ’01

cbrown@rockford.edu

815-394-5046

 

M-F 8:30 am to 5 pm

Event Registration

06/23/2017 4:59 pm

TPS Event Registration

Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: 815-226-4050
Fax: 815-226-2822
Email: Admissions@rockford.edu

Hours:
Monday - Friday,  8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sat - 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. -- Please call to reserve an appointment on Saturdays.

Graduation Banner

Undergraduate Majors

Accounting* (B.A., B.S.)

Art, Studio* (B.A., B.F.A.)

  • 2-Dimensional Art 
  • 3-Dimensional Art 
  • Graphic Design* 

Art History*(B.A.)

Biochemistry (B.S.)

Biology* (B.A., B.S.)

  • Biomedical Sciences 
  • Conservation and Wildlife 

Business Administration (B.A., B.S.) 

Chemistry* (B.A., B.S.)

Computer Science* (B.A., B.S.)

Criminal Justice* (B.A., B.S.)

Data Analytics (B.A., B.S.)

Digital Marketing (B.A., B.S.)

Early Childhood Education (B.A., B.S.)

Economics (B.A., B.S.)

Elementary Education (1-6) (B.A., B.S.)

English* (B.A.)

Financial Economics* (B.A., B.S.)

Healthcare Administration (B.A., B.S.)

History* (B.A., B.S.)

Human Development* (B.A., B.S.)

  • Child/Adolescent Development*
  • Aging Studies*
  • Lifespan*

Humanities (B.A.)

International Studies* (B.A., B.S.)

Kinesiology* (B.A., B.S.)

  • Exercise Science*
  • Sport Management*
  • Teaching Licensure

Marketing* (B.A., B.S.)

Mathematics* (B.A., B.S.)

Middle Grades Education (B.A., B.S.)

Nursing (B.S.N.)

Political Science* (B.A., B.S.)

  • American Studies
  • Constitutional Studies
  • Legal Studies
  • Political Ideas
  • Politics & Culture
  • War & Peace

Psychology* (B.A., B.S.)

Science and Mathematics (B.A., B.S.)

Social Science (B.A.)

Sociology* (B.A., B.S.)

Spanish* (B.A.)

Special Education* (B.A., B.S.)

Supply Chain Management (B.A., B.S.)

Theatre (B.F.A.)

  • Acting/Directing
  • Design and Production*
  • Musical Theatre Performance
  • Theatre Management

*Indicates a minor can also be achieved in this program

Undergraduate Minors

  • Ancient and Medieval Studies
  • Bilingual Education
  • Business Administration
  • Coaching
  • English as a Second Language (ESL)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Gender Studies
  • Health
  • PK-12 Education Minor (World Language, Physical Education)
  • Latin American, Caribbean, & Iberian Studies
  • Linguistics and Translation
  • Music
  • Peace & Conflict Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Physical Education
  • Physics
  • Religious Studies

Pre-professional Programs

  • Pre-Dentistry
  • Pre-Law
  • Pre-Medicine
  • Pre-Pharmacy
  • Pre-Physician Assistant
  • Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Graduate Certificates

  • Finance
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Project Management

For more information on our programs,
please see the Academic Catalogs.