Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA - University of Scouting

Purpose of the University: The University of Scouting is a supplemental training opportunity for all adult volunteer Scouters in the Westchester-Putnam Council. The College of Program the College of Commissioner Science and the College of Scouting Service (Order Of the Arrow) make up the University.

A registration fee of $20.00 will cover refreshments throughout the day, lunch, materials and a commemorative patch. Deadline for registration has passed. Late registrations will not be accepted and walk-ins will not be permitted.

Payment Instructions: Checks should be made payable to the Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA and mailed to: 41 Saw Mill River Road, Hawthorne, New York 10532

Time: The University of Scouting will open its doors for registration at 8AM sharp. The Opening Ceremony will commence at 8:30AM and the Closing Ceremony will take place at 3:45PM. This event will conclude by 4PM.

Location: Concordia College is located at 171 White Plains Road/Route 22 in the Village of Bronxville, Westchester County, north of Mount Vernon and south of Scarsdale and Eastchester. Driving directions can be found below.

Degree Recognition: All attendees will be recognized with a certificate of participation and a commemorative patch.

The University will be divided into two Colleges:

The College of Program: Under the College of Program are the departments of Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Adventure and Scouting Resources and Scouting Service (Order of the Arrow)
The College of Commissioner Science: This College is for all registered members of the Commissioner staff.

Views of the University of Scouting in 2008
Driving Directions to Concordia College [PDF, 40K]

College of Program
The Degree Requirements

All three departments offer unit and district Scouters enhanced training opportunities beyond Basic Leader Training. Scout Leaders will find challenges among the courses offered.

Associates Degree Requirements-

Basic Leader Training must be completed prior to March 29, 2008.
Complete three (3) sessions from any of the courses in the 2008 College of Program (this may be done as a student or an instructor)

Bachelor's Degree Requirements-
(May be earned in any of the three departments within the College of Program only)

Basic Leader Training must be completed prior to March 29, 2008
Complete six University credits to include:
-Four (4) sessions from the courses offered in the department of your choice.
-Two (2) additional elective credits from the courses offered in the department of your choice or from two other departments.

Schedule for the Day
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Opening
8:50 AM - 9:30 AM Period #1
9:40 AM - 10:20 AM Period # 2
10:30 AM - 11:10 AM Period #3
11:20 AM - 12:00 PM Period #4
12:00 - 1:05 PM Luncheon Break
1:15 PM - 1:55 PM Period #5
2:05 PM - 2:45 PM Period #6
2:55 PM - 3:35 PM Period #7
3:45 PM - 4:00 PM CLOSING

Courses for The College of Program:

Department of Cub Scouting
Working with All Cub Scout Age Boys CUB100
Period: 1
This course takes an in-depth look at boys, with the aim of building a better program through an increased awareness of characteristics, motivators, interests and special needs. This course is for all leaders who work directly with Scouts or who work with other leaders as a coach.

Cub Scouts Love to Sing! (Oh, Yes They Do) CUB101
Period: 2
***NEW*** Who says boys don't like to sing? Of course they do! All they need is someone who's not afraid. Can't carry a tune? Not a problem. Learn the secrets to success: Types of songs appropriate for Cub Scouts; How to start Cub Scouts singing; How to get adults to sing; and Cub Scout Song resources. No excuses! –anyone can do it!

Character Connections—the Purpose of the Game CUB102
Period: 3
***NEW*** Scouting is a “game with a purpose.” Why do we do so many silly and fun things? Behind all that FUN is a weighty lesson in disguise. Learn how to instill the values of Scouting in everything you do. The boys will never know—until it counts! Learn how to make a real difference in the life of the men they will become.

Cub Games CUB103
Period: 4
The most exciting part of your den or pack meeting for your cub scouts is always playing The Game! Learn the different types of games, how to effectively run games, using games for advancement, keeping games age-appropriate and still have FUN!

Duty to God CUB200
Period: 5
This course offers a close look at Ethics in Action, Character Connections and the Religious Emblems Program. Each of these programs adds an opportunity for Scouts to develop mentally and spiritually and to earn additional recognition.

Pack Committee Workshop CUB201
Period: 6
A chance to gain perspective on the big picture. Learn what the pack committee does – the administrative and organizational side of running a Cub Scout Pack. Topics such as membership, fundraising, and activities planning will be discussed.

Using Your Den Chief CUB202
Period: 7
Who's a Cub Scout leader's best friend? It should be the Den Chief. Discover what a Den Chief is and how he can help YOU run an exciting den program. This trained Boy Scout role model plays a very important role on the leadership team.

Planning the Pack Program CUB300
Period: 3
Learn proven methods to plan an effective, exciting YEAR-ROUND program. We'll discuss scheduling, organizing, and budgeting special pack activities working with your pack committee. The resources are at your fingertips – using volunteers, the community, the Internet, and your District & Council program staff.

Academic and Sports Program CUB301
Period: 1
One of the most confusing aspects of the Cub advancement program is the Academic and Sports Program. Changes in the structure of Cub Advancement have actually made the program easier to run – come find out how this program can help your units have more fun and a better year round program.

Cub Scouting in the Outdoors CUB302
Period: 2
Keep the “Outing” in Scouting. Learn why and how to plan and conduct outdoor activities with your Cub Scouts. Learn Cub Scout camping rules, be introduced to the Guide to Safe Scouting, the BALOO and Webelos Leader Outdoor (WLOT/IOLS) training for adults, and the new Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award. Learn how outdoor games, hikes, and campfires can add special flare to your program.

Boy Scouting Here We Come! (Webelos to Scout Transition) CUB303
Period: 4
Our most important job as Cub Scout leaders is to prepare our boys for Boy Scouting. Learn how to assist your Scouts and their parents in making the most important transition in their Scouting career. Emphasis is on the Arrow of Light requirements for Webelos and how to find the “right” troop for each Scout.

Pack Trainer Workshop CUB400
Period: 5
This workshop will prepare the Pack Trainer to accomplish the core objectives of his position. Learn the Council's requirements and be among the first to view the latest training materials. Learn why we now have Pack Trainers and how you can make an incredible difference at the Unit level. Every Boy deserves a Trained Leader. You can help make that a reality!

The 6 Essential Knots for Webelos CUB401
Period: 6
Don't know your bowline from a sheetbend? Learn to tie the 6 knots used to earn the Webelos Outdoorsman Badge, one of the required badges for the Arrow of Light! Our expert instructors will show you the ropes so you can teach your Webelos the square knot, double half-hitch, tautline hitch, clove hitch, bowline and sheetbend, plus learn how to whip a rope without getting hurt.

Webelos Ceremonies and Webelos Resident Camp CUB402
Period: 7
Want to award your webelos their Arrow of Light badges in a really awesome ceremony? Plus, meet the staff of Webelos Resident Camp and find out tons of information about the best week of fun your Webelos Scout will ever have! Our staff will give you up-to-date information on all the planned activities at camp, see a terrific video of past camps and have all your questions answered.

Webelos Community Skills Group CUB403
Period: 1
Get some great ideas for your Webelos den meetings for the Citizen, Communicator, Family Member and Readyman Activity Badges. We'll have a ton of gathering activities, crafts, games and outings for super fun for your Webelos!

Webelos Technology Skills Group CUB404
Period: 2
More great ideas for Craftsman, Engineer, Handyman and Scientist that have everything Webelos scouts love-hammers, nails, catapults, tools, crazy science experiments and rockets! Come and have a blast!

Department of Boy Scouting
Boy Behavior BS100
Period: 1
A discussion of the characteristics and needs of the different age groups of boys found in the normal troop. Understanding these elements will lead to better communication between boys and adults and more effectiveness in controlling the group.

Planning the Troop Program BS101
Period: 2
Discuss the elements for planning the troop annual program. The session will encourage the timely evaluation of all activities using the weekly and monthly Patrol Leader’s Council meetings.

The Patrol Method BS201
Period: 3
A discussion on the Patrol Method showing how boy leaders can run their troop through the Patrol Leaders’ Council. Gain insight into how successful troops use the Patrol Method to help each Scout and Scouter develop his leadership abilities.

Advancement Program BS202
Period: 4
Discuss the need for encouraging the timely rank advancement of Scouts to help them succeed and stay active in the troop. Discuss advancement as a part of every troop meeting.

Troop Boards of Review BS203
Period: 5
There will be a discussion on the Troop's Advancement Committee responsibility in conducting quality rank advancement Boards of Review for all ranks, including the Eagle rank. Examples of kinds of questions that might be asked will be included.

The Scoutmaster Conference BS204
Period: 6
This course reviews the requirements and purpose of Scoutmaster’s conferences and explores ways to make the conferences valuable to both the Scout and the Scoutmaster. Ideas for and approaches to Scoutmaster’s conferences for Scouts all the way through Eagle will be presented.

Life to Eagle BS205
Period: 3
The Life Scout to Eagle Transition with discussion and illustrations of advancement to the Eagle rank

Camping Hiking and Backpacking BS300
Period: 4
The need for regular varied camping trips and the requirements for Scout planning and evaluation of the event is the topic. Equipment, clothing, tour permits, food, transportation, health requirements and places to try will be discussed. Along with the need for regular hiking trips as well as the requirements for Scout planning and evaluation of the event. This is an advanced session on the requirements for a successful backpacking trip. Discussions will focus on equipment, clothing, tour permits, physical requirements, planning and evaluating the event, special foods, foot care and shoes, and special places to hike.

Service Projects BS301
Period: 5
Service to others and project suggestions! Rank advancement and helping other Scouts, parents, unit, sponsor and the community. Discussion includes Eagle Rank service project requirements; also shows how helping others improves self-esteem and results in respect of others.

Healthy Meals BS302
Period: 6
This session will outline the need and requirements for foods that will help Scouts grow physically. Meal planning, shopping lists, purchasing, transporting and storing food items will be discussed as well as food preparation, eating and clean-up. The care and packaging of food for the trail, gear to be used in the preparation and the cleanup procedures. Discussions will cover the selection of foods and explore the value of quality foods on the trail

Why Attend District Roundtables BS303
Period: 1
With time hard to come by, why should members of the Troop Committee and/or the Scoutmaster and his staff attend the monthly district roundtables? This discussion will develop a list of reasons for several troop leaders to attend the district Roundtable every month.

The Department of Adventure & Scouting Resources
Safety Overview for Venturing, Sea Scouting, Varsity and Exploring Activities ASR100
Period: 2
Safety in planning and training for safe adventures. Includes overview of BSA safety guidelines as applies to Venturing, Sea Scouts, Explorers and Varsity Scouts. Includes overview of Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat, Climb-On Safely, and Trek Safely principles.

Youth Leadership Training ASR101
Period: 3
Learn how to train Venturing youth leaders: New Crew Fast Start, Online Crew Office Overview tool, Job Descriptions, Officer Seminar, Venturing Leadership Skills Course (required for Silver Award) and Kodiak leadership training. These are also applicable in Sea Scouting.

Planning High Adventure/Super Activity ASR102
Period: 4
Learn how to plan for the keynote activity of the year, items to consider, and opportunities available for High Adventure/Super Activity.

Hands on Minor First Aid for the Trail and Camping with Youth ASR103
Period: 6
This class will teach you the basics for some of the more common minor First Aid issues found on the trail and camping with youth. You will learn the most recent information about blister prevention and care. How to clean and properly bandage minor cuts and burns. How to treat and tape a sprained ankle. This will be a hands on class where you will practice how to do all of the above with a partner. If time permits other First Aid issues and questions will be discussed.

Orienteering ASR200
Period: 5
Learn about equipment, training, safety, introduction to technique and methods, and opportunities to participate in this adventure.

GPS, Geocaching, and Letter Boxing ASR201
Period: 6, 7
Learn about how to operate a GPS locator. Learn about the great sport of Geocaching and Letter Boxing.

Elective Courses
Curtis Read Scout Reservation ELC101
Period: 1
This session covers all of the information necessary for Packs, Troops and Crews to attend summer camp at Read. The session is intended to help the new unit have the most successful summer camp experience possible. Topics include when to register for Read, how to process payment, how to prepare your Scouts to attend summer camp, what type of activities are available, and other valuable tips on going to summer camp.

What a District Executive (DE) Is to You ELC102
Period: 2
This course will explain what a DE is supposed to do for you and what he is not supposed to do. It will explain his goals and requirements from council and how they relate to district goals. It will show the team work required of the DE and the District.

Supporting Scouts with Disabilities ELC103
Period: 3
This course will provide Scout Leaders with suggestions for working with Scouts with disabilities. Breakout groups will focus on specific needs of Scouts with learning disabilities, autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, emotional disabilities, physical disabilities, hearing impairment and blindness. Leaders of special Scouting units will share first-hand knowledge. Activities, resources. and alternative requirements for rank advancement will be discussed. Information will also be available on the greatly revised requirements for the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge.

Bringing your Troop or Pack into the 21 century ELC104
Period: 4
Using Troopmaster and Pack master software to manage all your scouting information and advancement on your computer or PDA phone(palm and Microsoft compatible only). This software is used by over 40,000 Scouters around the world. You can download the information already on file at the service center and easily update and add new scouts and leaders in minutes for less than 20 cents a day. This scout unit management system will save you time as well as frustration as you can easily update advancement any time, as long as your phone can access the internet. And while camping where there is no access you can input the information into your PDA as it happens and then upload it to the software as soon as you can access the internet or a computer. The license agreement is for the whole troop or pack, so as many leaders that need to have access to the information are include in the price of the license. Come learn how to use the features.

International Scouting ELC105
Period: 5
Expand your parameters, open your eyes. Scouting around the world invites your attention. There’s a huge world of Scouting awaiting.

Desktop publishing for your troop or pack using Microsoft Word ELC106
Period: 1
Learn how you can easily conceive, design, layout and print a promotional brochure for your pack or troop. Using easy to follow templates from Microsoft you can add your best scouting pictures as well as your message to the parents, boys and community about your troop or pack. Get the word out and in a way that fits your organization so that you can build awareness and membership all the time and all over town. With a color printer you can have a professional looking brochure to hand out at all your scouting functions, activities and recruiting days in no time at all. You will have the basic for a three fold brochure at the conclusion of this class.

Department of Scouting Service (Order of the Arrow)
Elangomats OA100
Period: 1
This course is designed to explain the role of the elangomat in ordeal process. It will train members who want become elangomats as well as polish the skills and remind those who have done it before what it really means and the importance of the role even after the ordeal.

Introduction to the Order of the Arrow OA101
Period: 2
Ideal for new brothers or those simply curious about the Order of the Arrow. This session will clarify the seemingly complex structure of the OA and different leadership levels and opportunities. It will explain the induction principles and sequence to help becoming a member easier.

OA and the Troop OA102
Period: 3
If active in the OA or just the BSA, this session will explain the relationship between the OA and the troop by going into the role of the OA Troop Representative and unit elections.

OA and the Cub Scouts OA103
Period: 6
The OA does not exclusively involve the Boy Scouts. Leaders will be familiarized with the role the OA plays in Cub Scouts, specifically camping and advancement. OA involvement will also be discussed in Arrow of Light ceremonies and other leadership skills to implement these things.

Ceremonies OA104
Period: 4
The Order of the Arrow is an organization filled with tradition and ceremonies. This course will look into why there are ceremonies, important factors and the role of the ceremonies team. This course is designed for those interested in becoming a member of the ceremony team and will provide techniques and opportunities to become active in the lodge and brothers curious about the ceremonies they were exposed to.

Communications OA105
Period: 7
Beaver Tracks; Ktemaques news letter and the lodge website will be explored as well as the communication infrastructure of our lodge. Those with questions, ideas/suggestions, and who would like to help with the lodge's system are encouraged to come.

Role of the Adult OA106
Period: 1
This will teach the role of the advisor in the Order of the Arrow and go over the interactions and expectations of the youth and adult in the OA.

Event Planning OA107
Period: 2
Designed for all Arrowmen, the different events and their purposes will be covered, what goes into planning them, as well as steps and skills to planning a successful event in any level of the Order of the Arrow.

Trail to Brotherhood OA108
Period: 3

College of Commissioner Science

Purpose of the College
The College Program is designed to offer meaningful, worthwhile training to Scouters who wish to improve their skill as Commissioners. We offer the Basic Training course to newly registered Commissioners as well as degree programs for a Bachelors or Masters Degree in Commissioner Science. You may also register for classes without having to enroll in the degree programs if this suits your needs.

Registration Prerequisites
Listed below are the specific prerequisites for each program:

Commissioner Basic Training – You must be currently registered in your council as a Commissioner and should have completed Youth Protection Training (available online).
Roundtable Commissioner Training – You must be currently registered in your council as a Roundtable Commissioner or Staff Member and should have completed Youth Protection Training (available online).
Bachelors of Commissioner Science - You must be currently registered in your council as a Commissioner, have completed Commissioner Basic Training and should have completed Youth Protection Training (available online). (All Sessions Are Required, No Electives Offered for the Bachelors Degree)
Masters of Commissioner Science - You must be currently registered in your council as a Commissioner, have completed any Bachelors of Commissioner Science degree and should have completed Youth Protection Training (available online). ( A Commissioner Will Select 7 Sessions Which Will Be Conducted at Multiple Times; Active But Focused Discussion Is Encouraged)
Doctor of Commissioner Science Degree (DCS)
Prerequisites
-Completion of master’s degree
-Have been awarded the Commissioner’s Key
-Current registration as a commissioner
Course Requirements
Completion of ten additional of instruction (total of 24), at least five of the courses at the doctor’s program level

Thesis or Research Project
-Completion of a thesis or research project on any topic of value to Scouting in the local council.
-The topic and final paper must be approved by the dean for the doctor’s program and the staff adviser.

Performance
-Serve on the College of Commissioner Science faculty (instructor or support staff) for at least one year.
-Recruit at least three new commissioners.
-Approval of district commissioner.
-Approval of district executive.

Note: Doctoral candidates must complete an additional registration form specific to the prerequisites of the doctoral program.

Degree Program Requirements
Scouters completing a degree are expected to attend the closing ceremony to receive a diploma and special degree badge. These special Bachelors and Masters degree badges are available for the first time this year and are in addition to the College badge available to all participants.

Courses for The College of Commissioner Science:

Bachelors of Commissioner Science
Introduction to Commissioner Science BCS101
Period: 3, 1
An overview of commissioner service and the single most important resource—The Commissioner Fieldbook.

A Commissioner’s Priorities BCS102
Period: 2
Suggests the priorities for a unit commissioner’s Scouting time and energy, reviews steps in handling unit problems, and covers the important Quality Unit Award.

Commissioner Style BCS103
Period: 3
Presents important qualities of commissioner diplomacy, a concept of “exceptional service,” thoughts about “roots and wings,” service recovery, and explains how to remove a volunteer.

Unit Visitation / Service to New Units BCS104
Period: 4
Reviews specific commissioner actions to provide adequate care for new units and provides participants with insights on effective unit visits, what to look for, and how to be a help—not a hindrance.

Unit Charter Renewal BCS105
Period: 5
Review a proven plan for reregistering Scouting units on time with minimal loss in membership and leaders. Learn the role of the commissioner to facilitate and achieve on-time charter renewal.

Practical Solutions to Common Unit Needs BCS106
Period: 6
Helps commissioners understand how to respond to unit needs. Participants become familiar with Unit Commissioner Worksheets and Commissioner Helps for Packs, Troops, and Crews.

Importance of Roundtables BCS107
Period: 7
Designed for unit and administrative commissioners to gain better understanding of role and duties of roundtable commissioners and roundtable staff members.

Masters of Commissioner Science
Does the Unit Need CPR- Commissioner Lifesaving MCS202
Period: 1
This session sets the stage for saving a unit and reviews the basic unit lifesaving steps and the seven unit “hurry cases.”

Counseling New Unit Leadership MCS203
Period: 2
As a unit commissioner, counseling New Leaders will help provide the confidence needed to carry out an effective program.

District Commissioner Administration Basics MCS205
Period: 3
The basic steps to be taken to ensure an effective Commissioner staff in the District are reviewed. These include: unit coverage unit commissioners, effective people skills, and the evaluation of effective unit service.

Recruiting, Orienting and Training New Commissioners MCS206
Period: 4
This bread and butter session is essential for all administrative commissioners and can help unit Commissioners to identify, potential Commissioners. Techniques for recruiting, as well as new commissioner orientation will be covered.

Webelos to Scout Transition MCS207
Period: 5
This session covers important ways commissioners can help boys and their parents make the transition from a Cub Scout pack to a Boy Scout troop.

Problem Solving Workshop MCS218
Period: 6
This session is an opportunity to sharpen problem solving skills as a commissioner staff member. Topics will include: How to spot problems, working with people, and working through the problem to get it resolved.

Construction of Effective Displays MCS219
Period: 7
Suggestions by a graphic Artist will assist commissioners to learn how to create an attractive and effective display that will motivate unit level volunteers.

Dealing with the “UN” Commissioner MCS220
Period: 1
Suggestions and methods for dealing with Scouter’s who are serving as commissioners but unwilling to set the example or fulfill the role as a positive Council Representative will be discussed.

Service to a new Chartering Organization MCS221
Period: 2
Ideas, methods and tips will be provided to provide effective service as a unit commissioner serving a new Chartering Organization, A Charter presentation to the Organization will also be covered.

Unit Service in the Changing Community MCS222
Period: 4
This session emphasizes the importance of working in changing communities through topics like recruiting local unit adults, helping units with special financial needs, and providing resources for program implementation.

The Scoutmaster Just Quit- Now What? MCS223
Period: 3
Sometimes the Commissioner finds out that the Scoutmaster just quit and no one knows what to do. This session with provide some methods and ideas that will help to keep the unit operating successfully.

Advanced Roundtable Leadership MCS224
Period: 5
Effective Roundtables provide many benefits for unit level volunteers. Find out about successful methods to promote Roundtable to unit leadership, recognition methods to encourage attendance, and innovative program ideas.

Doctor of Commissioner Science
Selecting a Thesis/Research Project Topic DCS101
Period: 1, 2
This session introduces the participants to the thesis project, discusses what constitutes a good thesis or research topic, and helps them select their general thesis topic.

Limiting the Scope of the Topic DCS102
Period: 3
Participants receive help in reducing the thesis topic to workable size and ideas for thesis/project research.

Developing the Thesis Outline and Writing the Report DCS103
Period: 4
This session covers the thesis outline and a variety of suggestions for writing and revising the report.

Thesis Workshop DCS104
Period: 5
This course is for those who feel they need more help getting started on or completing their thesis.

Advanced Commissioner Lifesaving DCS105
Period: 6
Administrative commissioners are taught to give leadership to a commissioner lifesaving concept. It also guides selected districts in setting up the lifesaving team approach.

Preventing Commissioner Burnout DCS106
Period: 7
This session covers different types of burnout and how to prevent or correct it to maximize effective commissioner tenure. Included are valuable tips on time management and reference to several aspects of “Commissioner Wellness.”

Home · News · Events · Contact Info · Site Index