Earth & Space Science

Astronomy 

Credit: 1

Length: 1 Semester

Prerequisites: College Algebra (MATH 1403) or placement above College Algebra

Fulfills: Concurrent Credit Core - Science

Concurrent Credit: UAFS PHSC 2503 & 2501 - Fundamentals of Astronomy + Fundamentals of Astronomy Lab - 4 hours total

This is a one-semester introductory course to astronomy, the oldest science, emphasizing both a practical (observational) and a theoretical approach. Students will become familiar with telescopes (including our 12-inch Meade reflector) and with the sky. They will learn to identify the major constellations, stars, planets and clusters. Computer software observations as well as lab sessions (including spectroscopy) will be used. The course focuses on the study of fundamental physical laws and their applications and a thorough study of our solar system.

Earth Systems Science

Credit: 1 

Length: 1 Semester

Prerequisites: Adequate standardized test scores 

Fulfills: Concurrent Credit Core - Science

Concurrent Credit: UAFS GEOL 1253 & 1251 - Physical Geology + Physical Geology Lab - 4 hours total

This course provides an introduction to the study of Earth.  Topics include plate tectonic theory, volcanoes, earthquakes, mountain building, earth materials, and surface processes.  We will explore these topics through lectures, laboratories, and field trips.  A weekend field trip may be offered in some semesters.

Environmental Science

Credit: 1/2

Length: 1 Semester

Prerequisites: None 

Fulfills: Science Elective

Concurrent Credit: None

This course provides students with the scientific principles, concepts and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative and sustainable solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. It is team-taught by faculty from biology and earth science. 

Oceanography

Credit: ½ 

Length: 1 Semester

Prerequisites: None 

Fulfills: STEM elective

Concurrent Credit: None

This course will include aspects of geological, chemical, physical, and biological oceanography, with emphasis on understanding the oceans as an integrated system. Major topics will include plate tectonics, atmospheric and ocean circulation, marine sediments, coastlines, the physical and chemical properties of seawater, marine ecosystems, and the impacts of human society on the oceans. A weekend fieldtrip to the Gulf Coast may be offered in some semesters.