Biology/Physics/Science Course Descriptions

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Astronomy Course Descriptions
Biology Course Descriptions, Lower Division
Biology Course Descriptions, Upper Division
Biotechnology Course Descriptions, Upper Division
Physics Course Descriptions
Science Course Descriptions
Science Education Course Descriptions
Tentative Two-Year Schedule of Biology, Physics, Science and Science Education Courses
Kennesaw State University Semester Schedules

NOTE: These course descriptions are current as of the 2005-2006 academic year. Please consult your academic advisor or the most recent university catalog for any changes.

NOTE: You must earn a "C" or better in all courses.

Astronomy Courses

ASTR 3320. Astronomy and Cosmology. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
An introduction to stellar Astronomy and Cosmology. Topics include stellar structure and evolution, end states of stars such as white dwarfs and black holes, active galaxies and quasars, the large-scale structure of the universe, and theories for the origin and evolution of the Universe. This course will emphasize physical principles and conceptual understanding.

ASTR 3321. Solar System Astronomy. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
An introduction to Solar System Astronomy. Topics include planetary motion and its role in the scientific revolution, theories for the origin of the solar system, the history and evolution of the Earth, comparative planetology and the origin of life. This course will emphasize physical principles and conceptual understanding.

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Biology Courses: Lower Division

BIOL 2107. Biological Principles I. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2101 or CHEM 1211/1211L
A cellular approach to biology. Topics include cell chemistry, cell structure and function, energy metabolism and cell differentiation, and techniques used to study them. Laboratories employ principles of spectrophotometry and differential centrifugation to examine enzyme kinetics, quantification of protein and subcellular fractionation. For science majors.

BIOL 2108. Biological Principles II. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107.
An organismal approach to biology. Topics include population genetics, evolution, ecology, behavior and structure/function relationships. In the laboratory, emphasis is on the collection and analysis of data from exercises dealing with population genetics and ecology. Fetal pig dissection is included. For science majors.

BIOL 2221. Human Anatomy & Physiology I. 3-0-3.
Corequisite: CHEM 1151 and CHEM 1151L or SCI 1101.
The course begins with cellular chemistry and function and continues through the nervous, endocrine, skeletal and muscular systems. Homeostasis and structural and functional relationships will be emphasized. Primarily recommended for students interested in nursing, physical therapy and health, physical education and sports science. Cannot be used for credit toward a degree in Biology.

BIOL 2221L. Human Anatomy & Physiology I Laboratory. 0-2-1.
Corequisite: BIOL 2221.
Basic anatomy and physiology of the skeletal, nervous, endocrine, and muscular systems. Structural and functional relationships will be emphasized.

BIOL 2222. Human Anatomy & Physiology II. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2221.
A continuation of Biology 2221. Emphasizes homeostasis and structural and functional relationships in the study of cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, digestive, and reproductive systems. Primarily recommended for students interested in nursing, physical therapy and health, physical education, and sports science. Cannot be used for credit toward a degree in Biology.

BIOL 2222L. Human Anatomy & Physiology II Laboratory. 0-2-1.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2221/2221L; Corequisite: BIOL 2222.
Basic anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Structural and functional relationships will be emphasized.

BIOL 2261. Fundamental Microbiology. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2221/2221L
Basic principles and techniques of microbiology emphasizing the various types of microbes, their morphology, metabolic processes and their relationships to humans; basic microbiology laboratory principles emphasizing funcamental isolation, identification, and culture techniques. Primarily for nursing majors. Cannot be used for credit toward a degree in Biology.

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Biology Courses: Upper Division

BIOL 3300. Genetics. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2108, CHEM 1212/1212L .
Principles of genetics including classical, molecular, population genetics and cytogenetics. Importance of genetics as a foundation for other divisions of biology is stressed. This laboratory course will explore concepts in both transmission and molecular genetics. Laboratory exercises will demonstrate the principles of segregation and independent assortment. Sex linkage, epistatic relationships, and the principles of human karyotyping will also be examined. Exercises in molecular genetics will introduce students to the process of recombinant DNA technology and will demonstrate the principles involved in molecular separation techniques.

BIOL 3310. Invertebrate Zoology. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
An examination of environmental influences on the evolution of the invertebrates including anatomy, physiology and phylogeny of invertebrates. In the laboratory students will observe and dissect a selected group of invertebrate organisms as well as design and conduct studies of invertebrate physiology, diversity, distribution, and behavior. A term project is required.

BIOL 3315. Vertebrate Zoology. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
An examination of the phylogenetic relationships, evolutionary origins and life history traits of the vertebrates. Laboratories will emphasize the identification of North American vertebrates as well as examine the relationships between morphology and taxonomy.

BIOL 3317. Pathophysiology. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2222/2222L, 2261/2261L or BIOL 4431 .
Examines the biological basis of common, clinical disease states. Pathophysiology is treated as a disruption of normal homeostatic mechanisms that progresses beyond the normal compensatory capabilities of the human body.

BIOL 3320. Plant Morphology. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
Evolutionary trends and relationships of major groups of nonvascular and vascular plants as seen in vegetative and reproductive morphology, life cycles and paleobotany. Students will observe and dissect selected groups of nonvascular and vascular plants, with emphasis on evolutionary trends and relationships.

BIOL 3327. Medical Genetics. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300 or consent of instructor.
An introduction to the principles of medical genetics and the application of these principles to human genetic disorders. Topics include inborn errors of metabolism, cytogenetic anomalies, neural tube defects, and application of molecular genetics to the diagnosis of specific disorders. Genetic counseling procedures, prenatal options and the ethical dilemmas generated as a result of these options will also be discussed.

BIOL 3335. Natural History of Georgia. 1-6-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
This course examines the flora, fauna, geology and environments of selected Georgia ecosystems. The historical and geological development of the state's major habitats and landforms are examined by way of a series of weekend field trips.

BIOL 3338. Histology. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
An investigation of structural and functional relationships in animal tissues. Laboratory studies of cells, tissues, and organs to understand their structural organization from normal animal specimens.

BIOL 3340. Microbiology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
A study of prokaryotic and unicellular eukaryotic organisms emphasizing morphology, physiology, control, identification, symbiotic relationships and practical applications. Immunology is studied as a response of vertebrates to microbial infection. The laboratory emphasizes basic microbiological methods of culture and identification of microorganisms. The role of microbes in the environment and in medicine is also investigated.

BIOL 3350. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108
A survey of representative vertebrates and related chordates emphasizing phylogeny and anatomical adaptations. Evolutionary trends are examined in the context of large-scale environmental changes that have occurred over geological time. Lab component will have students dissecting selected vertebrate organisms and experimentally determining the physical forces acting on the evolution of vertebrates.

BIOL 3370. Ecology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
Relationships among living organisms and their environments at the individual, population, community and ecosystem levels. Laboratory and field activities will emphasize environmental sampling procedures and statistical analysis of sampling data.

BIOL 3371. Limnology. 2-4-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108.
This course will develop a comprehensive and integrated understanding of physical, chemical and biological processes occurring in lakes, streams and estuaries. The approach will use the scientific method to investigate and contrast basic ecological processes operating in various systems. Students will generate hypotheses from an initial collection of data and from lectures on various limnologic parameters (e.g. light, nutrients, productivity, community structure, pollutants.) Students will test specific hypotheses by developing and implementing field surveys and experimental manipulations.

BIOL 3375. Behavioral Biology. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108 or comparable research methods course.
See Biology/Physics Department Chair for approval of other courses. Corequisite: BIOL 3375L.
A survey of the major concepts of neurophysiology, ethnology and behavioral ecology, including the behavior of social organisms. Laboratory and field activities emphasize a quantitative, hypothesis testing approach to observing the behavior of animals.

BIOL 3380. Evolution and Biosystematics. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300.
Principles of evolutionary biology and systematics including discussions of natural selection, adaptation, population genetics, speciation, and phylogeny reconstruction. The applications of evolutionary biology to areas such as conservation biology, medicine, and agriculture are discussed.

BIOL 3390. Developmental Biology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300.
Developmental process of animals and plants from formation of gametes through the embryonic stages, birth, maturation and aging. Emphasis on anatomical development, experimental embryology and molecular mechanisms of cellular differentiation. Laboratory studies in developmental biology techniques, including plant and animal cell and tissue cultures.

BIOL 3396. Cooperative Study. 1-2.
Prerequisite: Approval of Biology/Physics Department Chair and Coordinator of Cooperative Education/ Internships (Career Services).
A supervised work experience program for a minimum of two academic semesters at a previously approved site in business, industry or government or a private agency. For sophomore, junior or senior level students who wish to obtain successive on-the-job experience in conjunction with their academic training.

BIOL 3398. Internship. 1-12.
Prerequisite: Approval of major area committee and Biology/Physics Department Chair prior to registration.
A supervised, credit-earning work experience of one academic semester with a previously approved business firm, private agency or government agency. Credit is allowed only in elective areas.

BIOL 3399. Seminar. 1-0-1.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108 or permission of instructor.
Selected topics of current interest, to be announced. May be taken only two times for credit.

BIOL 4400. Directed Study. 1-4.
Prerequisite: Approval of instructor, major area committee and Biology/Physics Department Chair prior to registration.
Selected topics of an advanced nature, which may include original research projects. Up to four hours may be applied to the major area.

BIOL 4410. Cell and Molecular Biology. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300, CHEM 3361.
Cellular function and genetic principles from an experimental point of view. Emphasis on functional interactions among cellular substructures, regulation of cellular biosynthetic activity, molecular genetics, and evaluation of experimental data.

BIOL 4420. Plant Physiology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108, CHEM 3361/L.
Metabolic and physical processes of plants, emphasizing photosynthesis, respiration, water relationships, mineral utilization and hormonal reactions. Both classical and current approaches will be used to examine nutrition, transport, photosynthesis, and development in plants.

BIOL 4431. Human Physiology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 2107, 2108; PHYS 1111 or 2211; AND a minimum of 12 credit hours of upper level Biology or Chemistry
A course in human systems physiology in which the principle of homeostasis will be used to understand how function is integrated from the cellular to the organismal level. The course will focus on the nervous, endocrine, muscular and cardiovascular systems. Critical thinking and quantitative methods will be emphasized. Laboratory application of modern techniques in cell and animal physiology with emphasis on quantitative data acquisition and analysis.

BIOL 4450. Team Research. 1-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300 and permission of instructor.
This course is a group experience in biological research in which class members form a research team to design, perform, analyze and write up for publication a single project or group of related projects under the supervision and direction of a faculty member.

BIOL 4460. Medical Microbiology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3340/3340L.
This course will explore the disease process of, the immune response to, and the prevention and treatment of the medically important Monera, Viruses, Fungi and some microscopic Protista with emphasis on emerging infections including a laboratory experience that focuses on enhancing laboratory and investigative skills.

BIOL 4465. Immunology. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300; BIOL 3340 recommended.
Immunology will explore current concepts of the immune system. Emphasis will be placed on the induction of the immune response, on the mechanism(s) of those responses, and on the mechanism(s) by which the immune system protects against disease. The development and the role of each of the components involved in the immune response as well as immunological applications will be discussed.

BIOL 4475. Virology. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300; BIOL 3340 recommended.
This course will explore current concepts associated with the field of virology. The structure and genetic composition of viruses as well as strategies for replication and expression of viral genetic material will be explored. Mechanisms of viral pathogenesis will be presented. In addition, current methods for viral diagnostics, prevention of viral infection and treatment of infected individuals will be presented within the context of viruses of historical significance as well as newly emergent viruses of current medical concern. Novel infectious agents such as satellites, viroids and prions will also be discussed.

BIOL 4486. Bioethics. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: "C" or better in BIOL 3300 and 12 credit hours of 3000> Biol/Btec/Biochemistry
This course will enable the student to think more critically about some of the difficult moral problems which arise in the practice of science and from our contemporary understanding of living systems. Readings and discussion will focus on issues of personal decision making and public policy regarding both biomedical and environmental issues.

BIOL 4490. Special Topics in Biology. 1-4.
Prerequisite: Varies as to topic.
Selected special or current topics of interest to faculty and students. See semester schedule.

BIOL 4610. Advanced Topics in Anatomy & Physiology. 1-4.
Prerequisite: One course from Anatomy & Physiology area.
Advanced topic in physiology that may fit the needs and interests of students and faculty. Such topics might include advances in laboratory techniques, microbial physiology and cellular physiology. Can be taken only once for credit toward degree.

BIOL 4620. Advanced Topics in Ecology & Evolution. 1-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3370 or BIOL 3380.
Advanced topics in ecology and evolution that may fit the needs and interests of students and faculty. Such topics might include advanced lab and field techniques, microbial ecology, evolution of specific taxa, biology of gender. Can be taken only once for credit toward degree.

BIOL 4630. Advanced Topics in Cell & Molecular Biology. 1-4.
Prerequisite: One course from cell biology area.
Advanced topics in cell or molecular biology that may fit the needs and interests of students and faculty. Such topics might include advanced genetics, microbial genetics, biology of cancer or biotechnology. Can be taken only once for credit toward degree.

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Biotechnology Courses: Upper Division

BTEC 3301. Introduction to Biotechnology. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300.
This course will introduce students to the expanding field of biotechnology, including areas of agricultural technology, food biotechnology, genetic diagnostics, gene therapy, manufacture of biopharmaceuticals, etc. The course will include discussions of methodology, application, and the ethical, legal, and social implications of this rapidly expanding discipline.

BTEC 3396. Cooperative Study. 1-2.
Prerequisite: BTEC 3301; Approval of Biology/Physics Department Chair and Coordinator of Cooperative Education/Internships(Career Services).
A supervised work experience program for a minimum of two academic semesters at a previously approved site in business, industry or government or a private agency. For sophomore, junior or senior level students who wish to obtain successive on-the-job experience in conjunction with their academic training. Can be applied to free electives only.

BTEC 3398. Internship. 1-12.
Prerequisite: BTEC 3301; Approval of Biology/Physics Department Chair prior to registration.
A supervised credit-earning work experience of one academic semester with a previously approved business firm, private agency, or government agency. Credit is allowed only in elective areas.

BTEC 3399. Seminar in Biotechnology. 1-0-1.
Prerequisite: BTEC 3301 or permission of instructor.
Selected topics of current interest, to be announced. May be taken only two times for credit.

BTEC 3400. Quality Assurance and Regulatory Issues in Biotechnology. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300 or CHEM 3361/L .
This course gives an overview of regulatory issues and practices in biotechnology industries, focusing on the requirements of the FDA and USDA. It covers regulatory systems, including Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP). Other topics include record keeping, standard operating procedures, methods validation, statistical methods, compliance, and enforcement.

BTEC 4100. Molecular Methods: DNA. 2-3-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300.
This course covers the fundamentals of DNA, gene structure and function, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics. The emphases of the course will be on DNA structure, DNA replication, gene structure and gene expression. The applications of biotechnology studied will include creating recombinant DNA, gene mapping, DNA sequencing, DNA sequence analysis, and the polymerase chain reaction.

BTEC 4110. Global Biotechnology - Study Abroad. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300.
This course provides students with a common course that deals with the key scientific, social, economic, commercial, and ethical issues that are associated with the development and growth of the biotechnology industry in the global market. This course reflects a traditional immersion experience in a host university along with extensive global travel and intercultural experiences to show, first hand, what is being studied in the classroom. More specifically students will relate the role of biotechnology and its application in industry in a global perspective. The travel component of this course is to enhance the academic and personal experience of the students along with traditional classroom work. In addition, this course will give students an opportunity to learn about communication and interaction skills with people from the host country, and establish successful relationships with others from around the world.

BTEC 4200. Industrial Microbiology. 2-6-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3340 and BIOL 3340L.
This course is a detailed survey of advanced microbiological methods used in industry. Topics include biosafety issues, bacterial and fungal identification, environmental monitoring, methods validation, media preparation and sterilization, anaerobic culture techniques, quantitative methods, and fermentation in batch and continuous cultures.

BTEC 4300. Chromosome Preparation & Analysis. 2-4-4.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300; Co-requisite: BIOL 3327.
An extensive preparatory course designed to give students hand-on experience with the methods used in the preparation of human chromosomes. Collection techniques, culture procedures, harvesting protocol and slide preparation will be followed by analysis and interpretation of karyotypes, both normal and abnormal. Clinical implication of abnormal karyotypes will also be included as will proper use of various types of microscopes and image capture and analysis by computer.

BTEC 4310. Cytogenetics Practicum. 0-10-5.
Prerequisite: "B" or better in BTEC 4300 and "C" or better in BIOL 3327 and approval by director of KSU Cytogenetic Technology Program.
A supervised, credit-earning work experience of two academic semesters in a clinical cytogenetics laboratory affiliated with either a university hospital or a company. The extensive clinical laboratory training includes routine cytogenetic techniques such as G-banding, as well as advanced techniques such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and DNA chips. Upon completion of the internship, the student is eligible to sit for the NCA certification exam.

BTEC 4400. Directed Study. 1-4.
Prerequisite: BTEC 3301; Approval of instructor, major area committee and Biology/Physics Department Chair prior to registration.
Selected topics of an advanced nature, which may include original research projects. Up to four hours may be applied to the major area.

BTEC 4455. Case Studies in Forensic Science. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300; CRJU 3320(recommended).
This course will discuss the role and application of forensic science in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. Emphasis will be placed on forensic DNA analysis but other aspects of forensic science will also be discussed.

BTEC 4460. Methods in Forensic DNA Analysis. 1-6-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3300 .
This laboratory-intensive course will introduce students to the techniques currently used in Forensic DNA Profiling by crime labs in Georgia and across the country. Laboratory activities will include extraction and quantification of DNA from your own cheek cells, and state-of-the-art PCR-based DNA profiling methods. The course is designed to allow students to experience the full range of activities associated with the various procedures. Activities will include solltuion preparation, sample processing, record keeping, data interpretation, and report generation. Discussions will include the historical development of previously-used DNA profiling methods, alternative procedures employed in some laboratories, and the ongoing development of new DNA profiling methods. Legal issues associated with quality control, frequency estimates, sample condition, chain of custody, and admissibility will also be presented.

BTEC 4490. Special Topics in Biotechnology. 3-4.
Prerequisite: BTEC 33012; Others vary as to topic involved.
Selected special or current topics of interest to faculty and students. See semester schedule (Course HIGHLIGHTS).

BTEC 4800. Forensic Diagnostics. 2-3-3.
Prerequisite: BIOL 3340, BIOL 3340L; BTEC 3301.
The application of microscopy, antibody-based techniques and molecular probes for the detection and identification of infectious agents.

Physics Courses

PHYS 1111. General Physics I. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: MATH 1112 or MATH 1113.
The introductory physics sequence (PHYS 111 and PHYS 1112) is a survey of the primary fields of physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Elementary algebra and trigonometry will be used in the course, with laboratory exercises supplementing the lecture material. The first course of the sequence will focus on the field of classical mechanics and its applications.

PHYS 1112. General Physics II. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: PHYS 1111
The introductory physics sequence (PHYS 1111 and PHYS 1112) is a survey of the primary fields of physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Elementary algebra and trigonometry will be used in the course, with laboratory exercises supplementing the lecture material. The second course of the sequence will focus on the field of electromagnetism and its applications.

PHYS 2211. Calculus-based Physics I. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: MATH 1190
The Principles of Physics sequence (PHYS 2211 and PHYS 2212) is a survey of the primary fields of physics: mechanics, electromagetism, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Elementary calculus will be used in the course, with laboratory exercises supplementing the lecture material. The first course of the sequence will focus on the field of classical mechanics and its applications.

PHYS 2212. Calculus-based Physics II. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: PHYS 2211.
The Principles of Physics sequence (PHYS 2211 and PHYS 2212) is a survey of the primary fields of physics: mechanics, electromagetism, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Elementary calculus will be used in the course, with laboratory exercises supplementing the lecture material. The second course of the sequence will focus on the field of electromagnetism and its applications.

PHYS 3100. Classical Mechanics and Applications. 3-0-3.
Prerequisites: Math 2202 and Phys 2212 or equivalent.
This course provides a modern coverage of topics in classical mechanics, including a deeper understanding of the dynamic laws and a focus on connections to other topics in physics and to real life applicatons of the topics. Topics include a review of Newton's laws of motion which is followed by an examination of conservation laws in physics. Newton's theory of gravitation, the two-body central force problem, the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian frameworks, and a study of simple harmonic motion and oscillations. Connections with other fields of hysics and to applications are made when appropriate to broaden, deepen, and strengthen students' physical insights and understanding.

PHYS 3300. Analysis of Physical Systems. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: MATH 2202; PHYS 2212 or equivalent .
An examination of the mathematical tools used across different fields of physics combined with their application to specific problems selected from areas such as classical mechanics and electromagnetism. Practical physics problems will illustrate the use of vectors, matrices, differential equations, complex variables, probability and error analysis.

PHYS 3305. Modern Physics. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: MATH 2202; PHYS 2212 or equivalent.
A course in modern physics for students in math and science. Topics will include quantum mechanics, relativity, solid state physics, the Bohr model, Rutherford scattering, angular momentum, selection rules for quantum numbers and the Schrodinger wave equation. A combination of descriptive and mathematical models will be used.

PHYS 3310. How and Why - The Physics in Everyday Life. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
This course will utilize physics as a tool for understanding how everyday systems work and why tasks are done in certain ways. It will be taught at a level appropriate for the general audience. Demonstrations and student activities will be used to investigate the operation of a variety of systems selected from areas such as household appliances, communication systems, transportation systems, television, radio, computers and the electrical power system. These examinations will be tied together with the underlying principles from mechanics, optics, electricity and magnetism. The large role of energy in modern society will be examined in detail.

PHYS 3311. Concepts of Modern Physics. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
A look at quantum mechanics (the physics of the very small) and relativity (the physics of high speeds and high energies) for the general audience. The puzzles of modern physics and some philosophical implications will be considered. Topics will include the wave-particle problem, the uncertainty principle, time dilation, and why the speed of light is the “speed limit” for the universe. The strong experimental evidence supporting these (seemingly) strange and paradoxical ideas will also be discussed.

PHYS 3312. Concepts of Optics. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
A survey of optics and its applications for the general audience. Topics will include the nature of light, optical instruments and methods, color perception and depth perception. Techniques of color reproduction will be examined in areas such as photography, printing, art, color TV, and computer graphics. The course will include the fundamentals of optical systems such as holography, photography, microscopy and fiber optics. Emphasis will be on the applications of optical principles.

PHYS 3340. Electronics. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite: PHYS 1112 or 2212.
Fundamentals of analog and digital electronics. This course starts with basic electrical circuit operation and progresses to operational amplifiers as an example of practical analog circuits and to basic computer interfacing as an example of the operation of digital circuits. Lab involves hands-on work with both analog and digital electronic circuits.

Phys 3400. Electricity & Magnetism with Applications. 3-0-3.
Prerequisites: MATH 2202 and PHYS 2212 or equivalent.
The primary objective of this course is to present the experimental and theoretical basis of the principles of electricity & magnetism and their application in everyday penomena and devices. The course will begin with the concept of an electric field and will develop the idea of electric potential energy differences. Applicaton to conductors, capacitors and simple electric circuits will be discussed. Lastly unification of electricity and magnetism will be established through the Theory of Special Relativity and will culminate in the derivation of the electromagnetic waves equation from Maxwell's Equations. To underscore all of the conceptual developments of the coursse elecromagnetic phenomenon will be further explored in the natural world in both terrestrial and astrophysical contexts.

PHYS 4400. Directed Study. 1-4.
Prerequisite: Approval of instructor, major area committee and Biology/Physics Department Chair prior to registration.
Special topics of an advanced nature that are not in the regular course offerings.

PHYS 4490. Special Topics in Physics. 1-4.
Prerequisite: Varies as to topic.
Selected special topics of general interest to the faculty and students.

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Science Courses

ISCI 2001. Life and Earth Science Concepts. 2-2-3.
Prerequisite: Math 099 and "C" or better in SCI 1102
Life and Earth science defines science, examines how science is done, and develops an understanding of fundamental concepts in biology, geology and meteorology. Laboratory experiences will emphasize experimental design, data analysis, and inquiry methods. Course is intended for Early Grades Education majors. Cannot be used for credit towards a degree in Biology programs; Not acceptable for use as General Education requirement.

ISCI 2002. Physical Sciences. 2-2-3.
Prerequisite: Math 099 and "C" or better in SCI 1102
Physical Science defines science, examines how science is done, and develops an understanding of fundamental concepts in astronomy, chemistry and physics. Laboratory experiences will emphasize experimental design, data analysis, and inquiry methods. Course is intended for Early Grades Education majors. Cannot be used for credit towards a degree in Biology programs; Not acceptable for use as General Education requirement.

SCI 1101. Science, Society & Environment I. 3-2-4.
Prerequisite:MATH 099, ENGL 0099, READ 0099, if required.
This course is the first in a two-part sequence that fulfills the general education science requirement. Using the context of environmental issues, it introduces students to the basic nature of matter, energy, and living systems and to the nature of science. Emphasis is placed on making decisions about scientific issues. Science 1101 is not designed for science majors and is not a prerequisite for introductory courses in biology, chemistry, or physics. This course includes a mandatory online lab component.

SCI 1102. Science, Society & Environment II. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: SCI 1101
This course is the second in a two part sequence that fulfills the general education science requirement. Using the context of environmental issues, it introduces students to the basic skills and scientific understandings needed by educated citizens to make informed decisions about scientific issues.

SCI 3360. Earth Science. 3-3-4.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
An introduction to basic earth science concepts and methodology (including geology, meteorology, and oceanography) will be covered. Special emphasis will be placed on dynamic Earth processes (plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanism, climate, etc.) and their effects on the structure and composition of the landforms, oceans, atmosphere, and organisms. Laboratory designed to accompany SCI 3360.

SCI 3365. Earth Watch: Examining Global Environmental Issues. 3-0-3.
Prerequisite: Any core lab science sequence.
An examination of the integrative nature of environmental sciences; emphasis on human interactions with world environments. Discussions will focus on case studies, environmental problem-solving, and the development of a personal ecological ethic. Ecological principles of population, community, ecosystem and biosphere will be integrated in the case studies.

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Science Education

SCED 4000. Service Learning in Science Education. 1-3.
Prerequisite: 60 hours and permission of instructor and department chair/program director.
A community activity which links learning to life by connecting meaningful community service activieies with academic learning, personal growth, and civic responsibility. Activity will be designed with the instructor and approved by the chair/program director.

SCED 4416. Teaching Science (6-12). 6-0-6.
Prerequisite: EDUC 2130, 20 credit hours of upper division major requirements completed, admission to teacher education, and permission of the science education program coordinator. Co-requiste: SCED 4417.
An examination and application of learning theories, curricular issues, instructional design and assessment strategies for teaching middle and secondary school science in diverse classrooms. Candidates develop initial competencies for establishing a well-managed, productive learning environment, applying science content knowledge to the task of teaching adolescents, and promoting an understanding of the nature of science through inquiry-based instruction. Emphasizes practices supported by science education research and endorsed by the NSTA. Proof of professional liability insurance is required prior to receiving school placements in the co-requisite practicum.

SCED 4417. Teaching Science Practicum. (6-12).
Prerequisite: Admission to SCED 4416. Co-requisite: SCED 4416.
Middle and secondary school field experience in teaching science with concurrent seminars. Proof of professional liability insurance is required prior to school placements.

SCED 4475. Student Teaching Science (7-12). 12 credit hours.
Prerequisite: Admission to Student Teaching
Full-time teaching experience in science under the supervision of a secondary school cooperating teacher and a college science education supervisor. Includes regularly scheduled seminars.

SCED 4498. Internship in Teaching Science. (6-12).
Prerequiste: Provisional teaching license issued by State of Georgia; full-time employment teaching science, and permission of science education advisor.
Student Teaching experience in science for provisionally certified teachers. Supervision will be in collaboration with a mentor-teacher in the local school and a specialist in science education. This internship will automatically substitute for SCED 4475. Proof of professional liability insurance is required. Student is responsible for their own school placement.

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