Sciences

This course introduces writing and research strategies for scientists through the use of appropriate databases and critical thinking. Emphasis is given to writing reports such as literature reviews, lab reports and research articles through practice and examples as well as critical reading. ENG 101 with a grade of C or better or A in ENG 100

This course is designed for students with a limited background in biology and will survey the most important concepts, principles and processes of the biological sciences. Course topics include: cell structure and function, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, genetics, evolution, ecology, microbiology and biochemistry.

This course introduces concepts and techniques used in geographic information systems for evaluating spatial patterns and relationships, with a focus on biological processes and organisms. Students will become familiar with software and data collection used in GIS. Prerequisites: Junior or Senior standing, OR permission from the instructor. This course is a major elective for multiple degrees.

This course is designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of the methodological and philosophical components of research. As an interdisciplinary, team taught course we will be exploring how the scientific methods guides the work of natural and social scientists from a variety of fields. For example, behavioral scientists rely on a variety of methods for making systematic observations regarding social behaviors. This course will provide a firm foundation in observational methods along with considerable practical application. Key topics may include devising coding schemes, training observes, and assessing reliability, as well as recording, representing, and analyzing observational data. The natural and social sciences will also highlight a variety of field methods that can be utilized in a natural setting.