Department of Science

Rhoades Science Center 203
Department Chair: Nicholas Galt, Ph.D.
Administrative Assistant: Heide Beierle
heide.beierle@vcsu.edu
(800) 532-8641
(701) 845-7452
FAX: (701) 845-7450
https://www.vcsu.edu/departments/science/

The Science Department seeks to encourage and develop the ability of students interested in pursuing a career in the pure and applied sciences. We provide students with academic counseling, courses, programs and research experiences that will prepare them for their future employment or enable them to enter their professional or graduate school of choice. The Science Department is well rounded in the sciences with majors in Biology, Chemistry, Health Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Environmental Science, and Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences. In addition we take seriously the training of our future teachers with majors in Biology Education and Chemistry Education.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of a major in the Science Department our students should:

Demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of the major concepts in the science disciplines.
Exhibit critical thinking skills by applying the scientific method to solve problems.
Exhibit the ability to read and communicate in a scientific style.
Understand the importance of science to themselves and society.
Analyze the consequences of activities on themselves and their environment.

Abshire, Michelle (2021) Assistant Professor; B.S., Ph.D. Oklahoma State University

Anderson, Bob (2005) Professor; B.S., Ph.D. South Dakota State University

DeMuth, David (2012) Professor; B.S. University of Louisville, M.S. University of Louisville, Ph.D. University of Minnesota

Dreyer, Staci (2023) Assistant Professor; B.A. Minnesota State University Moorhead, Ph.D. University of North Dakota

Galt, Nicholas (2016) Associate Professor; B.S. North Dakota State University, Ph.D. University of Alabama

Kiecker, Lindsey (2023) Instructor; B.S.Ed. Valley City State University

Montgomery, Trista (2022) Assistant Professor; B.A., B.S., M.S. Bemidji State University

Sundstrom, Teather (2012) Professor; B.S. University of North Dakota, Ph.D. University of Connecticut

van Gijssel, Hilde (2002) Professor; M.Ed. Valley City State University, M.S., Ph.D. Leiden University (the Netherlands)

Williams, Casey (2011) Associate Professor; B.S. Northwestern State University, M.S., Ph.D. Texas State University

Majors

Minors

Certificates

AH 101. Nursing Assistant Training. 2 Credits.

This course prepares students for certification as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Nursing Assistant Training provides classroom instruction and clinical practice to those preparing for employment as a certified nursing assistant in a skilled nursing facility, acute care, or home health care.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer.

AH 102. Cardiographic Technician Training. 2 Credits.

This course prepares students for certification as a certified cardiographic technician (CCT). Topics include: heart anatomy, normal heart physiology and electrophysiology, introduction to ECG, reading and analyzing ECG strips, introduction to ECG rhythm analysis, identification of dysrhythmias, performing ambulatory monitoring, and stress testing.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer.

BIOL 111. Concepts of Biology. 4 Credits.

An introductory level non-majors transferable class designed to meet the requirements of a lab science. This class is an introduction to the major concepts of modern biology through lecture and laboratory work on the structure, function, diversity, and interrelationships of living organisms, with emphasis on areas of human concern.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.

BIOL 121. Introduction to Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences. 4 Credits.

An introduction to the basic principles that are integral to understanding fisheries and wildlife sciences. The course covers the history of management and legislation, general concepts of management, general field and lab methods, and wildlife and fisheries careers.
Typically Offered: Fall.

BIOL 122. Fisheries and Wildlife Techniques. 4 Credits.

A study of the field and laboratory techniques necessary for management and research of fish and wildlife populations, habitat evaluation, and sex and aging techniques.
Typically Offered: Spring.

BIOL 150. General Biology I. 4 Credits.

A two-semester sequenced study of the fundamental concepts of biology through lecture and laboratory work. BIOL 150 is focused on cellular biology and physiology. BIOL 151 focuses on concepts such as classification, evolution, and ecology. Recommended for students interested in science (required for certain majors and minors).
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.

BIOL 151. General Biology II. 4 Credits.

BIOL 170. General Zoology. 4 Credits.

A survey of the animal kingdom. Major invertebrate and vertebrate animal groups are studied with emphasis on structure, function, life history and evolutionary advancements of each.
Typically Offered: Spring.

BIOL 171. Medical Terminology. 3 Credits.

An introduction into medical terminology. Topics includes prefixes, suffixes and root words, their meaning, spelling and pronunciation and the use of term in medical documentation. Emphasis is on building a working medical vocabulary based on body systems and diseases.
Typically Offered: Fall.

BIOL 194. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 199. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 200. Field Biology. 2 Credits.

A survey of the animal and plant species in local natural habitats with concentrated work on a selected topic. Filed trips for collection, identification, and preservation of specimens are required.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.

BIOL 220. Human Anatomy and Physiology I. 4 Credits.

A study of the structures and functions of the human body. The lab work includes physiological exercises, cat dissection with comparison to human structures and computer simulations. Topics include cells and tissues and the skin, bone, muscle, circulatory and the respiratory system.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: BIOL 111 or BIOL 150 or BIOL 151.

BIOL 221. Human Anatomy and Physiology II. 4 Credits.

The study of the structures and functions of the human body. The lab work includes physiological exercises, cat dissection with comparison to human structures and computer simulations. Topics include nerve system and the brain, senses and special senses and the endocrine, immune, reproductive, urinary and digestive systems. This course is designed to fulfill the anatomy and physiology requirements for psychology majors.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisite: BIOL 111 or BIOL 150 or BIOL 151.

BIOL 267. Environmental History. 3 Credits.

A survey of the interrelationship between the natural environment and the people who inhabit the land. Emphasis is given to the factors and events which have changed and challenged America's attitude toward the land and its natural resources. The course covers both grassroots movements and government policies that have resulted in the conservation and environmental movements in American history. Cross-referenced with HIST 267.
Typically Offered: Spring, odd years.
Same As: BIOL 267/HIST 267.

BIOL 294. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 299. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 310. Microbiology. 4 Credits.

An introduction to the morphology, physiology, taxonomy, and ecology of micro organisms. Lecture and laboratory work deal with the history, isolation, identification, and culture of microorganisms. The fields of epidemiology, bioethics, and environmental microbiology will be discussed.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: one Biology class and one Chemistry class.

BIOL 311. General Botany. 4 Credits.

A general botany course covering plant evolutionary history, form, structure, and physiology. Lectures focus on plant diversity through time and a general knowledge of plant function. Labs emphasize cells, tissues, phyla, and physiology of plants.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 312. Plant Diversity. 4 Credits.

A plant taxonomy course focusing on classification of plants at the family level and identification at the species level. Lectures focus on learning traits of plant families with an emphasis on North Dakota plants and an occasional lesson on economically important plants. Labs focus on plant identification, using a dichotomous key, and a large plant collection.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 315. Genetics. 4 Credits.

A study of the basis of heredity with emphasis on the structure and function of DNA and Mendelian genetics. Course work includes lecture and discussion on concepts in linkage, mutation, mechanisms of heredity, genetic mapping, molecular genetics, population genetics, current issues and research in genetics. Laboratory work includes experiments with Drosophila chromosomes and inheritance patterns.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 330. North Dakota Flora. 3 Credits.

A systematic study of North Dakota summer flora including field work consisting of plant identification and ecology. Lectures and lab work cover taxonomy and classification, and the medicinal and economic value of plants.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.

BIOL 336. Range Management and Range Plants. 4 Credits.

Principles of range management which include plant identification, range evaluation, and range improvement. Lab with focus on identification, distribution, and forage value of important range plants.
Typically Offered: Fall.

BIOL 340. Research Methods. 4 Credits.

An overview of research techniques and methodologies used in biomedical research and health care. This course covers practices of qualitative and quantitative research design and analysis, measurement concepts in research and state and federal regulations using animals and humans in research. Fundamentals and specific applications of the most common data gathering and measurement techniques are addressed.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: Junior Standing or Senior Standing.

BIOL 343. Ornithology. 4 Credits.

A study of the identification, life history, physiology, migration, and ecology of birds. Course includes frequent field trips for practice in the recognition of species common to North Dakota.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisite: BIOL 151.

BIOL 347. Aquatic Entomology. 4 Credits.

A study of the diversity of aquatic insects and invertebrates focusing on their identification and importance in aquatic ecosystems. Course includes frequent field trips for collection of specimens.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 350. Environmental Contaminants. 3 Credits.

An introduction to the major groups of environmental contaminants and their effects on ecosystems and human health. Students will learn about sources of contaminants, their persistence in the environment, and the pathways of contaminants into waterways, organisms, and the atmosphere. Efforts or methods to prevent or mitigate contamination will also be covered. Students will research and present case studies related to environmental contamination.
Typically Offered: Fall, odd years.

BIOL 355. Mammalogy. 4 Credits.

A study of the biology, classification, biogeography, ecology, and behavior of North American mammals. Labs cover mammal identification and life histories, trapping, and include multiple field trips.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: BIOL 151.

BIOL 360. Environmental Law and Regulations. 3 Credits.

An introduction to environmental laws and policies including their development and current status. State and Federal laws affecting fish and wildlife; their application, administration and the organizational structure of state and federal agencies will be covered.
Typically Offered: Spring.

BIOL 367. Ichthyology. 4 Credits.

A study of the biology, classification, biogeography, ecology, evolution, and behavior of fishes, with special emphasis to fishes found in the northern Great Plains. Labs cover identification and life histories of fishes and field trips.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: BIOL 151.

BIOL 375. Conservation Biology. 4 Credits.

An introduction to the study and conservation of biodiversity. Topics include historical and current trends in conservation of biological diversity, migratory corridors, endangered species, invasive species, conservation of genetic integrity, and island biogeography.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 376. Yellowstone Ecology. 2 Credits.

A field based course on the ecology of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem illustrating its complexity. Topics include: impact of the reintroduction of the wolves, evidence of climate change, wildlife populations, current research, influence of stakeholders, park management, and other issues within the park and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. A field trip to Yellowstone National Park is part of the course.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 380. Human Sexuality. 3 Credits.

A study of the role and meaning of human sexuality in relations to oneself as well as in all interrelationships with other people. Course work includes a study of anatomy and physiology of the reproductive system, human sexual response, process and role of identity, sexual value systems, contraception, and the importance of sexuality in preparation for family living. Cross-referenced with PSYC 380.
Typically Offered: Spring, Summer.
Same As: BIOL 380/PSYC 380.

BIOL 394. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 395. Laboratory Preparation and Management. 1 Credit.

A practicum-like course that allows the student to directly assist the instructor in numerous aspects of laboratory instructional delivery. The course is designed to improve the competency of teaching laboratories. This course may be repeated up to three semester credit hours.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer.
Repeatable: Up to 3 Credits.

BIOL 399. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 410. Field Ecology. 4 Credits.

A study of plant and animal communities, their diversity, interactions and adaptation to the environment. The course includes extensive fieldwork, independent research, statistical analysis and scientific writing.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 411. Wildlife Management. 4 Credits.

A study of advanced principles and applications of the management of terrestrial vertebrates and their population dynamics. Strategies for wildlife conservation, utilization, and enhancement are covered. Labs cover the collection and analysis of data, scientific writing, and consist of multiple field trips.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 121 and BIOL 122.

BIOL 412. Fisheries Management. 4 Credits.

A study of advanced principles of managing fisheries resources with an emphasis on freshwater fishes and ecosystems. Includes field and laboratory techniques used in fisheries management and research.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: BIOL 121, BIOL 122, and BIOL 367.

BIOL 413. Restoration and Plant Ecology. 4 Credits.

This course covers both the fundamentals and advanced application of plant ecology to restoration ecology. Students will cover topics such as ecosystem processes, invasive species, population dynamics, rarity, communities, philosophical ecology, and climate change. The class focuses on students learning how to communicate complex ideas and facilitate a productive conversation around those ideas.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 430. Human Dimensions in Fisheries and Wildlife. 3 Credits.

The objective of this course is for students to build an understanding and appreciation for the role of human dimensions in fisheries and wildlife management. Topics covered include public relations and communication for natural resources managers, land ethic, agency administration, natural resource law enforcement, and survey preparation.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: BIOL 121 and BIOL 122.

BIOL 440. Biostatistics and Experimental Design. 4 Credits.

An introduction to analysis and interpretation of biological data. Topics include statistical assessment of field and laboratory research, experimental design, and application of computer software.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisite: MATH 103 or MATH 104 or MATH 107 or MATH 165 or MATH 210.

BIOL 441. Cell Biology. 4 Credits.

A study of processes common to life at the cellular level including biochemical and structural organization, membrane function, motility, signal transduction, growth, division, and genetic regulation of the cellular function. Laboratory work utilizes techniques to study life at the cellular level including chemical composition and characterization, enzyme kinetics, metabolism, and microscopy.
Typically Offered: Spring, even years.
Prerequisites: one Biology class and one Chemistry class.

BIOL 455. Introduction to GIS. 4 Credits.

An application of the principles of geographic information systems and integrally related mapping to solve problems related to natural resource management and other environmental issues. Comprehensive lab assignments are included to give students hands-on experience solving problems with current state-of-the-art software and GPS units, including data creation, data integration, mapping, and spatial analysis.
Typically Offered: Spring.

BIOL 470. Limnology. 4 Credits.

The study of biological, physical, and chemical features of freshwater ecosystems. The course includes field sampling, lab work and GIS mapping.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisites: BIOL 150 and BIOL 151.

BIOL 490. Secondary Science Methods and Techniques. 3 Credits.

A course designed to prepare prospective science teachers in the areas of curriculum planning, textbook selection, supplemental teaching aids, laboratory procedures, and the ordering of equipment and supplies. The course includes laboratory practicum experience.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: Admitted to Teacher Education.

BIOL 491. Integrated Science Capstone. 2 Credits.

A capstone course that requires students to apply previously-learned knowledge and skills to develop solutions to practical scientific issues. Students will be divided into small groups for plan development. Various majors are involved to allow for integrated course material.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Prerequisite: Senior Standing.
Same As: BIOL 491/CHEM 491.

BIOL 494. Undergraduate Research. 3-12 Credits.

The course is designed to integrate subject matter from major coursework and other disciplines into a project that leads to the creation of an original body of knowledge.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Prerequisite: Junior Standing or Senior Standing.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 497. Internship. 3-12 Credits.

An opportunity for students to apply classroom learning to an on-the-job work experience. Internship must be related to the student's major or minor course of study and may be in any geographic location. Credit is granted in the range of three to twelve hours per semester and may be repeated up to a maximum of 12 credit hours. Application and approval through Career Services.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer.
Prerequisites: Junior Standing or Senior Standing and cum GPA of 2.50 or higher.
Grading: S/U only.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

BIOL 499. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

CHEM 115. Introductory Chemistry. 4 Credits.

An introductory level course designed to be the first semester of the General, Organic and Biochemistry sequence, introducing fundamental concepts in chemistry. This course introduces topics of measurement, atomic theory, chemical bonding, ionic and covalent compounds, naming, shape, intermolecular forces, states of matter, stoichiometric relationships, solutions, reaction rates, equilibria, and acid-base chemistry. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Fall.

CHEM 116. Introduction to Organic and Biochemistry. 4 Credits.

An introductory level course designed to be the second semester of the General, Organic and Biochemistry sequence, introducing organic chemistry and biochemistry. This course includes topics on functional groups, nomenclature, organic reactions, proteins, enzymatic action, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and metabolism. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisite: CHEM 115 or CHEM 121.

CHEM 121. General Chemistry I. 5 Credits.

A foundational chemistry course designed to be the first semester of the two-semester general chemistry sequence. This course covers topics of atomic structure, stoichiometric relationships, chemical reactions, gas laws, thermochemistry, bonding, and molecular geometry. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Prerequisite: ASC 93, MATH 103, or ACT Math score of 20 or higher.

CHEM 122. General Chemistry II. 5 Credits.

A beginning chemistry course designed to be the second semester of the two-semester general chemistry sequence. This course covers topics of physical states, solutions, reaction rates and mechanisms, chemical equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Prerequisite: CHEM 121.

CHEM 194. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

CHEM 294. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

CHEM 330. Quantitative Analysis I. 4 Credits.

An upper-level one-semester course designed for students to apply concepts and solve analytical chemistry problems. This course includes topics of statistical treatment of data and error analysis; solution chemistry and solubility equilibria; volumetric analyses: acid-base neutralization, complexometric and redox methods. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Fall, odd years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 122.

CHEM 331. Quantitative Analysis II. 4 Credits.

An upper-level second semester of a two semester sequence designed for students to apply concepts and solve analytical chemistry problems. This course includes topics of statistical treatment of data and error analysis, gravimetric analyses, solution chemistry and solubility equilibria, volumetric analyses, acid-base neutralization, complexometric and redox methods. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Spring, even years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 330.

CHEM 341. Organic Chemistry I. 5 Credits.

An upper-level course designed to be the first semester of a two-semester sequence covering organic chemistry. This course covers topics of organic structure and bonding, nomenclature, stereochemistry, functional groups, reactivity, and spectroscopy. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Fall, even years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 122.

CHEM 342. Organic Chemistry II. 5 Credits.

An upper-level course designed to be the second semester of a two-semester sequence covering organic chemistry. This course continues the study of organic structure and bonding, nomenclature, stereochemistry, functional groups, reactivity, and spectroscopy. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Spring, odd years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 341.

CHEM 360. Elements of Biochemistry. 4 Credits.

An upper-level one-semester course designed to introduce students to biochemistry. This course covers topics of protein structure, function, conformation, and dynamics; biomolecules; enzymes, DNA-RNA; structure and flow of genetic information; biological membranes, and metabolism. Includes a laboratory section.
Typically Offered: Fall, odd years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 116 or CHEM 341.

CHEM 394. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Prerequisite: Junior Standing or Senior Standing.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

CHEM 395. Laboratory Preparation and Management. 1 Credit.

An opportunity to participate in a practicum-like course. The student directly assists the instructor in numerous aspects of laboratory instructional delivery. The course is designed to improve the competency of teaching laboratories by involving the students in preparation of laboratory materials, storeroom management, evaluation of laboratory experiences, chemical storage, waste disposal, and related safety topics. This course may be repeated for credit up to 3 semester credit hours.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Repeatable: Up to 3 Credits.

CHEM 399. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

CHEM 411. Physical Chemistry I. 4 Credits.

A one semester course covering the study of the laws and theories of chemistry including statistical thermodynamics and quantum mechanics. Course materials are interpreted through the application of fundamental mathematical and physical principles. Statistical methods and concepts are introduced during the study of statistical mechanics. This course includes laboratory.
Typically Offered: Fall, even years.
Prerequisites: CHEM 122, MATH 165, and either PHYS 212 or PHYS 252.

CHEM 412. Physical Chemistry II. 4 Credits.

A one semester course covering the study of the laws and theories of chemistry including thermodynamics, phase equilibria, and kinetics. Course materials are interpreted through the application of fundamental mathematical and physical principles. Statistical methods and concepts are introduced during the study of the kinetic molecular theory of gases. This course includes laboratory.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Prerequisites: CHEM 122, MATH 165, and either PHYS 212 or PHYS 252.

CHEM 425. Inorganic Chemistry. 4 Credits.

A study of major topics in inorganic chemistry. The structure of crystalline solids, molecular symmetry, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, and the chemistry of d-metal complexes will be covered. Topics in atomic and molecular structure and bonding as applied to inorganic molecules will also be discussed. The course includes laboratory.
Typically Offered: Spring, odd years.
Prerequisite: CHEM 122.

CHEM 490. Secondary Science Methods and Techniques. 3 Credits.

A course designed to prepare prospective chemistry teachers in the areas of curriculum planning, textbook selection, supplemental teaching aids, laboratory procedures, and the ordering of equipment and supplies. The course includes laboratory practicum experience.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: Admitted to Teacher Education.

CHEM 491. Integrated Science Capstone. 2 Credits.

CHEM 494. Undergraduate Research. 3-12 Credits.

CHEM 497. Internship. 3-12 Credits.

GEOL 100. Introduction to Earth Science. 4 Credits.

A broad, non-quantitative survey of topics in geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. This course is a prerequisite for many upper division courses and includes laboratory work. Cross-referenced with GEOG 100.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer Odd Years.
Same As: GEOG 100/GEOL 100.

GEOL 106. The Earth Through Time. 4 Credits.

A lecture and laboratory course which provides an introduction to the earth through time. Topics include the origin and history of the planet and the history and evolution of animal and plant life. The laboratory work involves studying fossils and interpreting geologic maps and stratigraphic columns. Cross-referenced with GEOG 106.
Typically Offered: Spring, even years.
Prerequisite: GEOL 100/GEOG 100.
Same As: GEOG 106/GEOL 106.

GEOL 299. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

GEOL 300. Environmental Earth Science. 4 Credits.

Environmentally focused course which studies and investigates important earth science problems affecting North Dakota, the United States, and the world. Working as a class, in groups, or as individuals, students do labs, field work, and research resulting in presentations about earth science topics. Cross-referenced with GEOG 300.
Typically Offered: Spring, odd years.
Prerequisite: Any General Education Science Course.
Same As: GEOG 300/GEOL 300.

GEOL 315. Soil Science and Survey. 4 Credits.

A systematic investigation of the morphology, genesis, classification, and field determination of major soil types. Lab work and field analysis are included.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: GEOL 100.

GEOL 394. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

GEOL 399. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

GEOL 416. Hydrology. 4 Credits.

A study of the properties, occurrence, and movement of water on Earth in relation to the hydrologic cycle. This course covers groundwater, surface water, atmospheric water, and soil water processes. Lab and field work are included.
Typically Offered: Fall, even years.
Prerequisite: GEOL 100/GEOG 100.

GEOL 497. Internship. 3-12 Credits.

PHYS 100. Concepts of Physics. 4 Credits.

An introduction to the concepts of physics as they apply to everyday life. Ideas are presented with a conceptual rather than mathematical approach.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.

PHYS 110. Introductory Astronomy. 4 Credits.

An introductory study of the universe including the solar system, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, black holes, big bang cosmology, and the expanding universe. Laboratory experiments, visual observations, and telescopic observations are included to reinforce the concepts covered.
Typically Offered: Fall.

PHYS 161. Introductory College Physics I. 4 Credits.

A general physics sequence for those who do not plan to take advanced courses in science. Topics include Newtonian mechanics and gravitation, work and energy, solids and fluids, vibrations and waves, electricity and magnetism, lights and optics. PHYS 161 has no mathematical prerequisite but knowledge of elementary algebra is recommended.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Same As: PHYS 161/PHYS 211.

PHYS 162. Introductory College Physics II. 4 Credits.

A general physics sequence for those who do not plan to take advanced courses in science. Topics include Newtonian mechanics and gravitation, work and energy, solids and fluids, vibrations and waves, electricity and magnetism, lights and optics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Prerequisite: PHYS 161.
Same As: PHYS 162/PHYS 212.

PHYS 199. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

PHYS 211. College Physics I. 4 Credits.

This non-calculus general physics course is recommended for pre-medical or pre-professional students. Topics: Newtonian mechanics and gravitation, work and energy, solids and fluids, heat and thermodynamics. The laboratory is a component of this course. A student may not receive credit for PHYS 211 and PHYS 212, and also PHYS 161 and PHYS 162.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: a General Education Math class.
Same As: PHYS 161/PHYS 211.

PHYS 212. College Physics II. 4 Credits.

The non-calculus general physics course sequence recommended for pre-medical or preprofessional students. Topics: vibrations and waves, electricity and magnetism, light and optics, and an introduction to modern physics. The laboratory is a component of this course. A student may not receive credit for PHYS 211 and PHYS 212, and also PHYS 161 and PHYS 162.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: PHYS 211.
Same As: PHYS 162/PHYS 212.

PHYS 251. University Physics I. 5 Credits.

A general physics sequence for students majoring in chemistry, physics, or engineering. Topics include Newtonian mechanics and gravitation, work and energy, solids and fluids, heat and thermodynamics, vibrations and waves, electricity and magnetism, light and optics, and an introduction to modern physics. This course includes laboratory.
Typically Offered: Fall, odd years.
Prerequisite: MATH 165.

PHYS 252. University Physics II. 5 Credits.

PHYS 275. Planetarium Science. 0-1 Credits.

Students will learn about the operation of the planetarium and observational astronomy by finding stars and constellations in the night sky, through the creation of an original presentation written by students in the fall semester and produced by students in the spring semester. Students will learn current planetarium shows for public presentation as well as guide tours of the Medicine Wheel. Creative writing, public speaking, and computer presentation production are skills used in this course. This course may be repeated for credit up to 3 semester credit hours.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Repeatable: Up to 3 Credits.

PHYS 294. Independent Study. 1-3 Credits.

Directed reading, study, and/or activities in selected topics.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

PHYS 299. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

PHYS 376. Embedded Systems. 3 Credits.

A study of micro-controller hardware and software with an emphasis on interfacing the micro-controller with external electronic devices such as transceivers, sensors and actuators for communications and control within an embedded system.
Typically Offered: Spring.
Same As: PHYS 376/SE 376.

PHYS 395. Laboratory Preparation and Management. 1 Credit.

A practicum-like course giving students the opportunity to directly assist the instructor in numerous aspects of laboratory instruction delivery. The course is designed to improve the competency of teaching laboratory by storeroom management, laboratory preparation and operation, evaluation of laboratory, equipment maintenance and repair, safety, classroom demonstrations and related topics. This course may be repeated for credit up to three semester credit hours.
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Repeatable: Up to 3 Credits.

PHYS 399. Special Topics. 1-4 Credits.

Courses not offered in the regular catalog that provide an opportunity to extend student learning.
Typically Offered: On sufficient demand.
Repeatable: Up to 12 Credits.

PHYS 490. Secondary Science Methods and Techniques. 3 Credits.

A course designed to prepare prospective science teachers in the areas of curriculum planning, textbook selection, supplemental teaching aids, laboratory procedures, and in the ordering of equipment and supplies. The course includes laboratory practicum experience.
Typically Offered: Fall.
Prerequisite: Admitted to Teacher Education.

PHYS 494. Undergraduate Research. 3-12 Credits.

PHYS 497. Internship. 3-12 Credits.