Freshman Level Courses

The following courses are available to undergraduates, and may be of particular interest to Freshmen and Sophomores.  For registration information or permission, contact Carla Mantel at 612-624-5166, or cmantel@umn.edu.

CSPH 1101: Self, Society, and Environment: an Integral Systems Approach to Personal Wellbeing and Social Engagement (3 credits)

Have you ever wondered how you can make a meaningful difference in the world? In an increasingly shrinking world, everything is connected – the inner and the outer, the personal and the political, the social and the environmental.

In this new 3-credit course, students will use the lens of complexity theory to study vast internal and external systems which influence our lives and health. Whole Systems Healing will examine the interrelated workings of mind, psyche, and body and explore bringing these into dynamic balance. Students will also be asked to consider the variety of environmental and social systems in which they participate, once again combining theory, experience, and reflection to explore the optimal functioning of these systems – both for individuals and the collective whole.

In addition to applying their learning within the realm of personal wellbeing, students will learn to be social entrepreneurs, bringing health and balance to the social and environmental systems in which they participate. Students will also explore the implications of Albert Schweitzer's ethic of “Reverence for Life” as a guide for human relationship with the natural world. 

CSPH 1001: Principles of Holistic Health and Healing (2 credits)

In the scientific worldview, body, mind and spirit are studied separately and science has provided many great advances in health. However, other ways to view human health as a balance of mind, body, and spirit can help us balance our lives and health.

Instructor Linda J. Brady, PhD, will cover various world-view concepts of health and healing and how they are practiced.  We will then incorporate the ideas of balance of body, mind and spirit into thinking about our own health as well as healthcare delivery in the US. The topics include complementary and alternative world views and practices, but also how various parts of the holistic view might be applied to our lives - balance of work and family, spirituality, relationships, touch, humor, etc.