Science

Physical Science

SCIE101

Physical Science provides an introduction to the phenomena of motion, force, energy, matter, sound, electricity, magnetism, and light. Students study nature’s basic laws and how they govern human experience.

3 credits
Prerequisite: Reading Placement test score Level 3, or READ110 (C or better), Math Placement test score of 5 or higher, or MATH095 (C or better)
Corequisite: None

Astronomy

SCIE102

Astronomy provides a survey of our knowledge of the structure, formation, and evolution of Earth, the solar system, the stars, and the galaxies. The course focuses on the logical development of ideas and concepts within the framework of science.

3 credits
Prerequisite: Reading Placement test score Level 3, or READ110 (C or better), Math Placement test score of 5 or higher, or MATH095 (C or better)
Corequisite: None

Physical Geology

SCIE103

This lecture and laboratory course introduces the basic principles and processes of geology. Emphasis is on a wide range of topics, including rocks and minerals, topographic maps, surface processes, hydrologic systems, plate tectonics, and the earth’s interior.

4 credits
Prerequisite: Reading Placement test Level 3, or READ110 (C or better), Math Placement test score of 5 or higher, or MATH095 (C or better)
Corequisite: None

Weather and Climate

SCIE104

This lecture and laboratory based course investigates the principles and processes that govern weather and climate on Earth. Topics include the structure of the atmosphere, temperature, air pressure, wind, cloud types and cloud formation, precipitation and storm formation, climate, and introduction to basic weather map interpretation and forecasting.

4 credits
Prerequisite: Reading Placement test score of 3 or READ 110 (C or better) Math Placement test score 5 or higher or MATH 095 (C or better)

Introduction to Environmental Science

SCIE105

This lecture and laboratory course examines the history of environmental ethics, conservation movements, environmental policy and sustainable lifestyles. It covers basic ecological principles, especially as pertains to conservation, restoration, and resource management. Students study agricultural practices, waste management, and energy sources. Laboratory exercises require field trips and service learning.

4 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Discoveries in Chemistry: A History

SCIE108

This course examines the historical development of chemistry; the personalities, stories, and experiments behind modern understanding of matter (specifically elements and compounds), and how that understanding has led to practical technologies. In addition, the course explores the nature of scientific thought related to the historic chemical research explored.

3 credits
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems

SCIE206

This course teaches the theory and practical use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Topics include issues of data accuracy, map projections, scale, data collection, metadata, and data storage/management. GIS analysis techniques, data display options, and cartography are also covered. Students use current GIS software in laboratory exercises.

3 credits
Prerequisite: CISC110 (C or better)