College Catalog
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Course Descriptions
SCI100
Environmental Science
Scientific investigation of interactions in the environment, including cause and effect relationships and a focus on the impact of humans on the natural environment. Biological, chemical, physical, and geological principles are integrated into the presentations. This course promotes a basic scientific understanding of environmental issues and informed decision making. Appropriate for students in all programs. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
SCI101
Introduction to Forensic Science
Forensic Science is the study and application of science to the processes of law and involves the collection, examination, evaluation, and interpretation of evidence. This course introduces the field of forensic science through an exploration of its applications to criminal investigation. This field encompasses many scientific areas, which, if used properly, can make invaluable contributions to the resolution of social and legal disputes. The basic applications of the biological, physical, chemical, medical, and behavioral sciences to questions of evidence are reviewed. In doing so, a basic understanding of the capabilities and limitations of the forensic sciences as they are presently practiced will be gained. No background in natural sciences is presumed. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): ENL111 and MTH005 or ENL111 and Placement by Examination. (Science, Technology and Society)
SCI102
Introduction to Forensic Science Laboratory
Laboratory component of SCI101 that provides investigations and techniques used in basic forensic science. Technology, procedures, and the limitations of the modern crime laboratory will be examined by simulating crime scene investigations. Experimental methods and analysis of data will introduce the student to the unique ways in which a forensic scientist must think and reveal the pure science that forms the basis for forensic science. Instrumentation and techniques in basic forensic science will be employed to analyze known and unknown physical and biological evidence. Basic forensic anthropology will also be discussed when identifying unknown skeletal remains. Mock crime scenes will be used as a method of assessment. 1 Credit (0 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Corequisite(s): SCI101.
SCI111
Weather and Climate
Introduction to the science of meteorology, with emphasis on atmospheric mechanisms that create and affect the Earth's weather. Both the basics and the limitations of weather forecasting will be examined, as will local and national climatic data. Concepts presented include heat transfer in the atmosphere, types of clouds and precipitation, air masses, weather fronts, characteristics of cyclones and anticyclones, analysis of computer guidance, and the importance of physical geography in weather and climate. No science background is presumed. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): Placement by Examination or MTH005 and Placement by Examination or RDG111.
SCI113
Evolution, Genetics, and Development
Examination of the conceptual, philosophical, and historical foundations of the three major biological themes of evolution, genetics, and development; the links between these themes provide the context for discussing biological science as a process of inquiry. Intended for non-science majors. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): Placement by Examination or ENL001 and Placement by Examination or MTH004 and Placement by Examination or RDG111.
SCI155
Introduction to Astronomy
Scientific methodologies and theories relating to the extraterrestrial universe, beginning with the beliefs of ancient civilizations and progressing through modern scientific ideas about astronomy. Social contexts that historically have advanced or retarded progress in this discipline will also be addressed. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
As needed, Fall.
SCI156
Astronomy Laboratory
Laboratory investigations emphasize geometrical and physical optics; spectroscopy; computer simulations of orbital mechanics; and construction of instruments for stellar investigations. Study includes naked-eye and telescopic observations of the night sky. 1 Credit (0 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Corequisite(s): SCI155. As needed, Fall.
SCI160
The Science of Spaceflight
Investigation of the history and science of spaceflight, including the social, political, historical, and scientific implications of the space program since President Eisenhower initiated the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in 1958. Topics include the political and economic implications of the space program, basic science of propulsion and trajectories, operational facts about the space shuttle, basic physical laws that govern spaceflight and planetary motion, living and working in space, spacesuit design, overview of our solar system, satellites, Hubble Space Telescope, global positioning, robotics, the space station, future ventures into space, and the effect space technology has on society. Emphasis on conceptual models, although some mathematical analysis and problem solving is involved. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): ENL111 and MTH006 or ENL111 and Placement by Examination. (Science, Technology and Society)
SCI170
Introduction to Physical Science
Survey of the fundamental laws, theories, and concepts of physics, chemistry, astronomy, meteorology, and geology. Intended primarily for non-science students desiring to fulfill a requirement for a Natural Science course with a laboratory component. (Formerly SCI165) 4 Credits (3 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): Placement by Examination or ENL001 and Placement by Examination or MTH004 and Placement by Examination or RDG001.
SCI260
Biology and Modern Society
Discussion and analysis provide a basis for rational and informed decision-making on current topics of biological interest. Emphasis on integrating human concerns with biological concepts from various sub-fields ranging from ecology to medicine. Among the topics for discussion are the biology of cancer, AIDS, and agribusiness/population problems. Intended for non-science majors. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): ENL111. (Science, Technology and Society)