Science Literacy [BS] (for Earth Science Minors)

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in physics and astronomy, including core courses in astronomy, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and philosophy. Students can choose from restricted elective courses to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. The program also requires completion of an Earth Science minor. Graduates will be scientifically literate and prepared for careers in various fields, including public policy, journalism, law, business, and environmental science.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Required Core Courses (29 hours)
• ASTR 205 Principles of Astronomy (4 hrs)
• BIO 110 Introductory Biology: Cells & Molecules (3 hrs)
• BIO 111 Introductory Biology Laboratory: Cells & Molecules (2 hrs)
• CHEM 121 General Chemistry I (3 hrs)
• CHEM 122 General Chemistry I Laboratory (1 hr)
• MATH 105 College Algebra (3 hrs)
• MATH 107 Plane Trigonometry (2 hrs)
• PHIL 429W Topics in Environmental Philosophy (3 hrs)
• PHY 221 Mechanics, Sound and Heat (4 hrs)
• PHY 222 Electricity and Light (4 hrs)
• Restricted Elective Courses (6 hours)
• Select from the following or other courses, with advisor approval:
• ASTR 315 Observational Astronomy (3 hrs)
• ESSC 320 Oceanography (3 hrs)
• PSCI 305 Energy and Society (3 hrs)
• PSCI 340 Milestones in Physics and Astronomy (3 hrs)

Teaching:

• Students should consult their Physics & Astronomy departmental advisor to determine their plan of study.

Careers:

• Join the scientifically literate as an informed citizen capable of contributing in a variety of areas that require some background in science:
• Public policy
• Journalism
• Law
• Business
• Environmental careers