Courses
PHSC 170. Introduction to Physical Science (4)
Prerequisite: Qualifying score on the ELM Exam or satisfaction of the ELM exemption requirement. Recommended corequisite or preparatory: MATH 210. Survey of the nature, modes of production and limits of scientific knowledge, as well as the major discoveries of chemistry and physics, including atomic and kinetic molecular theory, chemical and physical properties of matter, chemical bonding and reactivity, motion, forces, energy and nuclear phenomena. 4 hours of classroom activity per week, plus outside investigative assignments.
SCI 100. Science for Life (3)
This course gives college students the skills and knowledge to promote success and instill lifelong learning with emphasis in science, mathematics and technology. The course will provide students with tools to examine their personal, academic and career choices through introspection, consultation, discussion, experimentation and traditional classroom exercises using examples from the natural world. The course is suggested for freshmen in science-based majors or those exploring these majors. (Available for General Education, Lifelong Learning.) (IC)
SCI 111/L. Understanding Climate Change and Lab (3/1)
Corequisite: SCI 111L. Severe global climate change will have disastrous consequences for Earth’s population. This course will develop the basic science behind the predictions for Earth’s climate, and explain why human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases, are the main driver of global warming. Course topics include the causes of climate change, its impacts, projections for the future, possible mitigation, and economic barriers imposed by the global capitalist system. Laboratory exercises include climate prediction modeling, the use of proxy data, and examination of the impacts of climate change. 3 hours lecture and 3 hours lab/week. Students receive credit for only one course chosen from either SCI, GEOG, or SUST 111/L. (Available for General Education, Natural Sciences lecture and laboratory requirements.)