Natural science

Courses in natural science (designated NSCI) may be applied as appropriate (according to individual program requirements) toward

  • the general education requirement in the biological and physical sciences; and
  • electives.

NSCI 100 Introduction to Physical Science (3)

(For students not majoring in a science.) Prerequisite: MATH 012 or higher. An introduction to the basic principles of physics and chemistry, with applications to geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. The objective is to use scientific and quantitative reasoning to make informed decisions about topics related to physical science. Discussion covers the development of scientific thinking, the scientific method, the relationships among the various physical sciences, and the role of the physical sciences in interpreting the natural world. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GNSC 100 or NSCI 100.

NSCI 101 Physical Science Laboratory (1)

(For students not majoring or minoring in a science. Fulfills the laboratory science requirement.) Prerequisite: MATH 012 or higher. Prerequisite or corequisite: NSCI 100. A laboratory study of the basic principles of physics and chemistry, with applications to geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. The objective is to apply the scientific method and use scientific and quantitative reasoning to make informed decisions about experimental results in the physical sciences. Discussion and laboratory activities cover the development of scientific thinking, the scientific method, the relationships among the various physical sciences, and the role of the physical sciences in interpreting the natural world.

NSCI 110 Introduction to Oceanography (3)

(Not for students majoring or minoring in science.) A survey of the major physical and chemical facets of the oceans. Topics include the properties of water, air-sea interactions, waves, tides, and coastal geology; plate tectonics; and resources of the sea. Marine life and ecology are briefly introduced. Current topics such as El Niño, global warming, and the effects of human activity on the oceans are also discussed. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GNSC 110 or NSCI 110.

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Last updated: 2 August 2012