Introduction to Science Course Descriptions
Non-science majors are to complete two lab sciences during the freshman year: one life science (Biology 104 or Psychology 104) and one physical science (Chemistry 104, Geology 104, or Physics 104).
BIO 104 - Biology: Concepts and Method: Study of topics to be selected to introduce students to basic concepts in biology and to the scientific method. Does not count toward a major in Biology or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree.
CHEM 104 - Concepts and Method: Designed for the non-science major, this course introduces students to basic concepts in chemistry and to the scientific method. Does not count toward a major in Chemistry or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree.
GEO 104 - Concepts and Method: A Study of topics selected to introduce students to basic concepts in geology and to the scientific method. Does not count toward majors in science or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree.
PHY 104 - Concepts and Method: Designed for the non-science major, this course introduces students to basic concepts in physics and/or astronomy, and to the scientific method. Does not count toward a major in Physics or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree.
PHY 104A - Concepts and Method ("Fact and Fiction, Physics and Metaphysics: Science Fiction Stories"): Designed for the non-science major, this course is taught by Prof. Steve Zides and is linked with Humanities 101B with Prof. Deno Trakas as part of a Freshman Learning Community. Does not count toward a major in Physics or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree. Below is a description:
"Science fiction tales are often categorized with respect to their level of scientific realism. When an author deliberately goes out of his/her way to construct a future based on plausible scientific ideas, the creation is referred to as “hard” science fiction. In this course, students will focus on the scientific aspects of a number of highly regarded “hard” science fiction short stories. We will consider a wide spectrum of scientific topics ranging from the traditional (Newton’s Laws) to the exotic (Vacuum Energy). The goal is not to collect a myriad of random scientific facts but rather to create a working model of the reality we inhabit."
PSY 104 A - Health Psychology: For some, the relationship between psychology and health seems quite obvious. For others, it is difficult to see how our thoughts, feelings, motives, and behaviors interact and influence our physical health, let alone be involved in the cause and maintenance of various potentially fatal diseases. This course is designed to provide an introduction to the rapidly developing field of health psychology. Although much of the discussion will focus on a series of disease entities, the goal is to develop a broad appreciation of how psychology and health are related. Designed for the non-science major, this course introduces students to basic concepts in physics and/or astronomy, and to the scientific method. Does not count toward a major in Physics or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree.
PSY 104 B and C – The Science of Behavior in Business: Human behavior occurs everywhere, and business is no exception. Most business leaders will tell you that their most challenging job is managing employee performance. The purpose of this course is to aid students in mastering the concepts and fundamental skills of behavior analytic applications to understand problem-solving approaches to workplace-related performance problems. Designed for the non-science major, this course introduces students to basic concepts in physics and/or astronomy, and to the scientific method. Does not count toward a major in Physics or toward science requirements for the B.S. degree.