Department Head: Dr. L. Joe Morgan
206 Martin Hall
The Department of Chemistry and Geosciences offers a broad base and diverse spectrum of undergraduate courses in multiple fields of study. We offer majors in chemistry and geography and minor in physics. Our departmental interests span from subatomic particles to the fate of oceans and mountains, highlighting the importance of contemporary scientific questions. In Chemistry and Geosciences, the synergy between natural and social science enables cutting edge, high-quality education.
Anthropology (AN)
Anthropology is a broad-based field of study. Its subject matter ranges from the analysis of primitive and modern cultures throughout the world (cultural anthropology) to the examination of ancient peoples and civilizations (archaeology) to the study of human biological evolution derived from the fossil record of Africa, Europe, and Asia (physical anthropology). Students may study anthropology to develop expertise leading to careers in archaeology or applied cultural research or to supplement a liberal arts education.
Chemistry (CY)
A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry prepares students for a diversity of careers. All majors complete general education and chemistry courses to satisfy the degree requirements. The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in chemistry requires an overall minimum of 120 hours with a minimum of 36 hours of 300/400 level courses. At least 12 hours of the 300/400 level courses must be taken in residence at JSU. Students must earn a “C” or better in chemistry coursework and maintain a 2.00 GPA overall and a 2.00 GPA in courses taken on campus. Once the student has met the requirements for the major, the hours remaining to complete the overall 120 hours will be classified as electives. Majors may choose a concentration from either applied chemistry, general chemistry with ACS Certification, or medicinal chemistry. Students pursuing a BS in chemistry are not required to have a minor in another academic discipline.
To complete the chemistry degree program, the students majoring in chemistry must plan carefully, since science laboratories can cause scheduling conflicts. An advisor can alert students to potential problems and assist in minimizing such conflicts. It is recommended that the chemistry major complete the chemistry core of General Chemistry I and II (CY 105, CY 106, CY 107 and CY 108), Organic Chemistry I and II (CY 231 and CY 232), CY 341 Physical Chemistry I, and CY 362 Biochemistry I early in the course of study. Careful planning will facilitate the opportunity for undergraduate research.
Geography (GY)
Geography serves as a bridge between the physical and social sciences. Emphasis is on the nature and distribution of environmental systems, human activities, relations between them, and their variation from place to place. Geography’s uniqueness is not derived from the subject matter studied, but from the discipline’s technical and methodological approach to the locational analysis of phenomena.
The Bachelor of Science in Geography degree offered by the Department of Chemistry and Geosciences requires an overall minimum of 120 semester hours with a minimum of 36 hours of 300/400 level courses. At least 12 hours of 300/400 courses must be taken in residence at JSU. Students must earn a “C” or better in geography coursework and maintain a 2.00 GPA overall and a 2.00 GPA in courses taken on campus. Once the student has met the requirements for the major, the hours remaining to complete the overall 120 hours will be classified as electives. The major requires 35 hours of Geography, including 21 hours of 300/400 level geography courses (this includes GY 307).
Geology (GL)
A two-semester sequence of geology is offered which can be used to meet the university general studies natural science requirement. Students interested in earth science are encouraged to consider a major/minor in geography.
Physics (PHS)
Jacksonville State University offers a minor in physics. Students in the sciences, mathematics and computer science will find this program a valuable complement to their majors.
- Chemistry - Applied Chemistry (Bachelor of Science)
- Chemistry - General Chemistry with ACS Certification (Bachelor of Science)
- Chemistry - Medicinal Chemistry (Bachelor of Science)
- Geography (Bachelor of Science)
- Geography - Geospatial Technology (Bachelor of Science)
- Chemistry Minor
- Forensic Biochemistry Minor
- Geography Minor
- Physics Minor
- Drone Piloting and Spatial Data Analytics Microcredential
- Sustainable Trail Science Microcredential
Anthropology
AN 224 Introduction to Anthropology (3)
Surveys the field of anthropology, including cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology.
AN 225 Introduction to Archaeology (3)
A study of the history, methodology, problems, and theory of archaeology including an outline of prehistoric cultural development in both the New and Old Worlds.
AN 299 Archaeology Field Techniques (3)
Introduction to techniques and theory of conducting archaeological excavation. Four days per week field experience.
AN 320 Archaeology of the Vikings (3)
Examination of the Viking Age (ca. AD 793-1066) in Scandinavia, Europe, and the North Atlantic through literature, artifacts, and environment, including the impact of the medieval Norse in popular culture.
AN 344 Principles of Archaeology (3)
An examination of the ways in which the archaeologist recovers archaeological data. Methods, theory, actual field work, and field trips to archaeological sites will be included in this course.
AN 345 Cultural Anthropology (3)
A global survey of the dynamics of cultural systems, including subsistence, kinship, marriage, sex and gender, politics, and religion.
AN 347 Current Social Issues (3)
An examination of how anthropology offers insight into national and international problems and events. Topics covered include environmental issues, poverty, crime, warfare, gender, and racism
AN 348 Indigenous North America (3)
Uses archaeological and ethnographic data to understand the diversity of Indigenous North American societies and their contributions to contemporary American culture.
AN 349 Archaeology of Mesoamerica (3)
Surveys the history, archaeology, and culture of Indigenous societies in Mexico and Central America during the last ten thousand
years.
AN 350 Biological Anthropology (3)
This course surveys the study of human biology from an anthropological perspective, including evolutionary theory, genetics, the fossil record of human ancestry, primatology, race, and variation, along with the cultural aspects of biology, medicine, and disease.
AN 399 Anthropology Study Tour (3)
Prerequisite(s): AN 224 or approval of instructor.
Topics, excursions, and requirements determined by department. May be duplicated for credit; however, only 3 credits may be applied toward any major or minor. Infrequently scheduled and subject to minimum and maximum numbers. Advance deposit may be required.
AN 410 Archaeological Field School (3)
This course is designed to provide the student field experience in methodology and techniques of archaeological data recovery. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 6 semester hours.
AN 413 Laboratory Techniques in Archaeology (3)
Instruction and experience in the techniques of post-excavation archaeological analysis. Includes artifact preparation, analysis, cataloging, and curation; analysis of environmental samples; preparation of site maps and drawings; and reporting of results.
AN 490 Advanced Seminar in Anthropology (3)
Prerequisite(s): AN 224.
An examination of current issues in anthropology. The content of this course will vary each semester. Students seeking admission must have advanced standing and secure approval of instructor. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 9 semester hours.
AN 493 Independent Study (1)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of department head and instructor required.
An opportunity for students with advanced standing to engage in special research projects in anthropology. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 3 semester hours. Grades: Pass/Fail.
Chemistry
CY 105 General Chemistry I (3)
Prerequisite(s): EdReady placement score of MS 112 or higher.
Corequisite(s): CY 107.
Part I of a two-semester sequence. General chemistry for science majors, including basic principles and laws of chemistry. Topics include measurements, dimensional analysis, reaction and stoichiometry, periodicity, atomic structure, bonding and molecular structure, and an introduction to organic chemistry.
CY 106 General Chemistry II (3)
CY 107 General Chemistry Laboratory I (1)
Corequisite(s): CY 105.
Basic principles of matter will be explored. Topics of experimentation include obtaining accurate measurements, identifying unknown substances from their physical and chemical properties, purifying matter, exploring gas laws, and performing an acid-base titration.
CY 108 General Chemistry Laboratory II (1)
Corequisite(s): CY 106.
Topics of experimentation include qualitative analysis, exploring reaction rates, ionic equilibria, and synthesis.
CY 115 Concepts of General Chemistry I (4)
Prerequisite(s): EdReady placement score of MS 112 or higher.
Part I of a two-semester sequence. General Chemistry for students who are not planning on taking any higher-level courses in chemistry. This course covers the basic principles and laws of chemistry is designed to cover a broad range of topics. Topics include measurements, the periodic table, ionic and covalent compounds, chemical reactions, energy changes, gases, liquids and solids, acids and bases and nuclear chemistry.
CY 116 Concepts of General Chemistry II (4)
Prerequisite(s): CY 115.
Lecture 3 hours; Lab 3 hours. Part II of a two-semester sequence. General chemistry for students who are not planning on taking any higher-level courses in chemistry. This course is the second semester in the basic principles and laws of chemistry. Topics include organic molecules, functional groups, molecular configurations, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, neurotransmitters, and metabolism.
CY 231 Organic Chemistry I (4)
CY 232 Organic Chemistry II (4)
CY 321 Quantitative Analysis (4)
CY 341 Physical Chemistry I (WI) (4)
Prerequisite(s): CY 106, MS 113 or higher, PHS 201 and PHS 202.
Lecture/3 hours. Lab/3 hours. An introduction to chemical thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, phase equilibria, and spectroscopy with emphasis on the applications of these topics to other fields of chemistry as well as everyday life. (Writing Intensive Course)
CY 342 Physical Chemistry II (4)
CY 362 Biochemistry I (WI) (4)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231.
Biochemical evolution, protein structure and function, flow of genetic information, enzymes, and enzyme kinetics. (Writing Intensive Course)
CY 363 Biochemistry II (4)
CY 411 Intermediate Inorganic Chemistry (4)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231.
Lecture 3 hours, Lab 3 hours. Fundamental topics in inorganic chemistry including atomic structure, chemical bonding, periodic relationships, acid-base theories, non-aqueous solvents, and reaction mechanisms.
CY 413 Pharmacology (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231.
Pharmacology is the study of drug action, which includes the mechanism of action, therapeutic use, and adverse effects of pharmaceutical agents of natural or synthetic origin. As this is a chemistry course, we will also cover structure activity relationships (SAR) of drug molecules as it relates to the receptor, enzyme, or target. This course will cover the basics of pharmacological study, then survey specific disease states such as anticancer, bone mineral homeostasis, thyroid, gonadal hormone, and glucocorticoid agents. As such, this discipline incorporates and connects concepts from organic chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, cell biology, and genetics and is therefore applicable to all health-related disciplines.
CY 414 Medical Biochemistry (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 362 and CY 363.
Medical biochemistry is a comprehensive course in human biochemistry where students will explore core biochemical concepts related to human diseases. We will focus on human medical biochemistry. Our goal is to learn the course concepts of biochemistry that apply to human health and disease and to cite specific examples of their application. The student will be able to analyze and evaluate the most common biochemistry cited in medical literature. Furthermore, these basics will facilitate further learning in biochemistry and the health sciences.
CY 416 Forensic Chemistry (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231 and CY 232.
This course approaches the challenges, methods, and analyses of forensic science from a fundamental, chemical perspective. Topics include drug analysis, arson investigation, questioned document analysis, and the analysis of paint and gunshot residue samples. This course is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in the Forensic Sciences and will help students develop approaches to understanding, correctly using, and further developing current chemical tools that are used in Forensic Sciences.
CY 417 Macro-Molecular Modeling (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 362.
In this course, we will study how to model small chemical and biochemical systems. Molecular modeling of biological molecules, including proteins and their respective endogenous ligands, agonists and antagonists. Protein modeling includes the study of primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures. Ligand interactions are discovered through docking and pharmacophore modeling. Protein-ligand interactions are visualized in the 3-D space. Other biomolecules such as lipids and carbohydrates are also modeled and studied. The common feature of molecular modeling methods is the atomistic level description of the molecular systems. We will perform visualizations and simulations of these systems. We will also study how to output the data and graphics for reports and journal articles.
CY 418 Enzymology (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 362.
Enzymology is an advanced biochemistry course where students will explore how enzymes are isolated. The course examines detailed enzyme mechanisms. Students will describe the formation of the enzyme-substrate complex and how enzymes bind substrates, the energetics of enzyme catalysis, and formation of the transition state. Students will learn how to analyze steady-state enzyme activity using substrate velocity curves and Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Students will define the competitive, non-competitive, uncompetitive, and irreversible inhibition along with other factors that alter enzyme activity, such as pH, which are important in human diseases as well as the design of pharmaceuticals.
CY 419 Advanced Materials and Technology (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231.
This is an introduction to polymeric materials and nanotechnology. This course will cover the fundamentals of polymer science including synthesis, characterization, properties, and applications of polymers. The course will also cover the fundamentals of nanotechnology including nanomaterials, nanofabrication, and the bio-nano interface.
CY 420 Chemistry of Cannabis (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231.
The biological activity of Cannabis sativa (marijuana) has been recognized for thousands of years, yet the understanding of the structures that elicit this activity and their mechanisms of action are relatively recent. This course will delve into the terminology and structural identities of the classical cannabinoids and extend into several new classes of synthetic analogs.
CY 421 Instrumental Analysis (4)
Prerequisite(s): CY 106, CY 108, CY 321, and PHS 202.
Lecture/3 hours. Lab/3 hours. This course covers the general operating principles and techniques of the commonly used analytical instruments. It will provide the conceptual knowledge, experience, and skills related to a variety of instrumental analytical and separation techniques suitable for material in complex matrices and interfaces. Building on the foundations provided in CY 321, this course introduces students to advanced instrumentation and analytical skills.
CY 435 Advanced Topics in Chemistry (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 232.
Advanced study of various topics in chemistry and chemistry related fields. This course is intended to be offered once per year, and topic selections will vary from year to year. See instructor. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 12 semester hours.
CY 450 Neurochemistry (3)
Prerequisite(s): CY 231.
Neurochemistry is the study of the signaling pathways and physiological outcomes resulting from the interaction of chemical molecules with the nervous system. This course will start with basic neuroanatomy as it relates to signaling and then progress through several prominent disease states.
CY 463 General Toxicology (4)
Prerequisite(s): BY 373 and CY 106.
The study of basic toxicology and ecotoxicology, including how toxic substances are taken up in the organisms, distributed, biotransformed and excreted, how toxic substances react with biomolecules and downstream consequences for the organism, as well as knowledge about toxic substances, e.g. pharmaceuticals, metals, organic contaminants, and pesticides. The course aims to provide a holistic view of the topic by bridging human toxicology and ecotoxicology; lecture, laboratory and field study. CY 463 is cross-listed with BY 463, and only one course may be counted for credit.
CY 490 Internship (1)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of instructor and department head.
This course gives the student an opportunity to gain valuable on-the-job experience with a firm, organization, or government agency. Each 1 hour of credit requires 30 hours of internship work. A total of 90 hours minimum is required for 3 credit for the semester. This course may be duplicated for credit for a total of 6 semester hours. Only 3 hours can count toward a Chemistry majors. Grades: Pass/Fail.
CY 497 Chemistry Research (1)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of department head.
The student is assigned a simple piece of fundamental research. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 3 semester hours. Grades: Pass/Fail.
General Science
GS 191 Special Topics in Science (1)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of Dean of College of Science and Mathematics.
May be taken twice for a maximum of two credit hours, as long as each instance is on a different topic.
Geography
GY 120 World Regional Geography (3)
This course examines major world regions, each the unique result of interaction between an environmental setting and human social and economic activity.
GY 195 Explore Seminar (1)
This course provides a forum for assigned readings and discussion of ideas in response to a current issue/event. The topic of the course will vary. May be repeated for a total of three credit hours.
GY 208 Introduction to Digital Mapping and GIS (3)
An introduction to basic digital mapping and analysis techniques involving symbol identification, coordinate location, and direction and distance measurement. Emphasis is upon creating maps using the most up-to-date software and techniques. Students will engage with geographic theory and methodology, stressing its relevance to current work in the discipline. Survey the use of maps to communicate, analyze, and present mapped data to solve spatial problems.
GY 210 Earth and Space Science (3)
A one semester overview of Earth including comparison to other planets in the solar system, its landsurface features, its atmospheric patterns, its soils and biomes. This course cannot be used in the Geography major or minor and cannot be used as a prerequisite for upper-level physical geography courses.
GY 220 Human Geography (3)
The study of social and cultural patterns, emphasizing the arrangement and diversity of economic, social, political, religious, and demographic culture traits.
GY 250 Physical Geography I: Atmospheric Patterns and Processes (3)
GY 252 lab is required but not concurrently. Study of the function and distribution of the interrelated processes that shape Earth's weather and the classification and distribution of Earth's climates.
GY 251 Physical Geography II: Landscape Patterns and Processes (3)
GY 253 is required but not concurrently. Study of Earth's soils, biomes and physiographic regions with emphasis on the processes that formed them and their global patterns.
GY 252 Physical Geography Lab I (1)
GY 250 is required but not concurrently. Experiments focus on weather, energy and moisture budgets, and climatic classifications. One two-hour lab per week.
GY 253 Physical Geography Lab II (1)
GY 251 is required but not concurrently. Exercises focus on study of the physical properties of soils, the analysis of biomes, the use of topographic maps to identify land surface features and the identification of physiographic regions. One two-hour lab per week.
GY 254 Honors Physical Geography I: Atmospheric Patterns and Processes (3)
Prerequisite(s): Honors program member or minimum ACT composite score of 25 or minimum SAT total score of 1210.
GY 252 lab is required but not concurrently. Study of the function and distribution of the interrelated processes that shape Earth's weather and the classification and distribution of Earth's climates.
GY 255 Natural Disasters (3)
The earth's processes - including earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions, droughts, wildfires, floods, tropical storms, tsunamis, and climate change that may have negative impacts on our society - are termed "natural disasters." Because the future of our society is highly dependent upon the earth processes and natural resources, it is essential to: 1) examine the origin and distribution of natural hazards, 2) evaluate human influences on Earth systems, 3) mitigate the incidences of major events, and eventually 4) plan our future responses to natural disasters. This course places emphasis on human-environment relationship with the dimensions of societal problem solving, through vulnerability analysis, risk assessment, and management. Students will engage in the assessment of a wide range of potential natural disasters that surround us. They will gain hands-on experience mapping and analyzing them.
GY 302 Remote Sensing (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 208.
A general introduction to the principles and applications of remote sensing with an emphasis on aerial photography.
GY 303 Outdoor Recreation in Natural Lands (3)
This class presents the environmental impacts of outdoor recreation. That is the study of recreation processes and patterns in the environment. Outdoor recreation activities have a footprint in wild lands and natural areas. Interactions and actions by recreationists alter and enhance natural processes on several fronts. This class will outline the various ways that outdoor recreation impacts the natural environment and best management practices. Topics include: impacts to soils, vegetation, water, and wildlife; and visitor behavior and management strategies.
GY 304 Trail Building and Maintenance (3)
This class presents the core elements of sustainable trail design and examines key landscape properties and processes that influence trail sustainability. Students will learn how to build and maintain sustainable trails. This class will include topics on developing trail plans, choosing trail tools, trail erosion, trail construction, and trail assessments. This course will require some travel and field work.
GY 307 Geographic Information Systems (WI) (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 208. (Writing Intensive Course)
Introduction to the fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including essential cartographic acquisition, processing, management, manipulation, analysis, and generation of digital spatial data. Topics addressed include GIS terminology, data sources, data conversion and input methods, raster and vector data, metadata, an introductory look into working with spatial databases, and spatial analysis.
(Writing Intensive Course)
GY 320 Political Geography (3)
A study of the spatial aspects of political phenomena from the international to the local scale. Suggested background: GY 220.
GY 331 Climatology (3)
A study of climates, how they are classified, and their effect upon human activity.
GY 333 Meteorology (3)
Recommended: GY 250. The study of weather types and their causes, weather instrumentation, the construction and interpretation of weather maps, analog and synoptic forecasting, and weather modification.
GY 341 Economic Geography (3)
(3). A survey of the factors which influence the location of economic activities with emphasis on the application of various elementary techniques designed to determine the relative economic potential of any place.
GY 351 Advanced Regional Study (3)
Examination of the interrelations among various physical and cultural elements that make regions of the world distinctive. Regional focus varies. See instructor. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 12 semester hours.
GY 352 Geomorphology (3)
Prerequisite(s): GL 241 or GY 251.
Geomorphology examines processes that have shaped, and continue to shape, the landscape around us. Resulting landforms and the forces involved are explored using both qualitative and quantitative methods. This course considers issues such as land use and land cover, and the ongoing interaction between human activity and geomorphic processes in the local region. Landforms and processes are analyzed at various temporal and spatial scales, and in terms of relevant theories and principles.
GY 361 Geography of the Arab World (3)
This course employs a macro geographical (regional and systematic) approach that introduces the students to the process of social and political change in the Arab World. The focus will be on the political, social, environmental and economic positions and interaction of the major players within the region. We look at the complexity of the region and its historical-cultural specifics. From a geopolitical perspective we survey recent socioeconomic and political exchanges and look at events that have begun to transform the contemporary Arab World, most notably the "Arab Spring" and the uprisings of Summer and Fall of 2012 and how these events are recursors to continued change.
GY 366 Sports Geography (3)
The purpose of this course is to explore the intersection of sports and geography.
Modern sports have developed over the past two centuries into a multi-billion dollar global industry. The geographic basis of sports is widely apparent at a variety of geographic scales: from the global, national and regional scales as demonstrated by international competition among countries, the locational strategies of professional franchises, sports regions, fans' attachments to teams in specific locations, and recruiting patterns, down to the micro geographical scale as evident in the geographically delimited areas of sports fields and micro-segregation based on class found in many professional (and collegiate) sporting venues (i.e., luxury boxes versus box seats versus general admission, etc.).
GY 398 National Parks Interpretation (3)
Students will receive intensive training preparing them to work as student interns at Little River Canyon National Preserve. Several days of travel to Little River Canyon will be required.
GY 399 Study Tour (3)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of instructor.
Topics, excursions, and requirements determined by department. May be duplicated for credit; however, only 3 credits may be applied toward any major or minor. Infrequently scheduled and subject to minimum and maximum numbers. Advance deposit required.
GY 401 Practicum in Geography (3)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of instructor.
This course provides opportunity to gain on-the-job experience with a firm or government agency. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 6 semester hours. Grades: Pass/Fail.
GY 403 Independent Study (3)
Prerequisite(s): Approval of instructor required.
This course gives the advanced student opportunity to pursue directed research. May be duplicated for credit for a total of six (6) semester hours. Grades: Pass/Fail.
GY 406 Digital Image Analysis (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 302.
Advanced instruction in multi-spectral, thermal and microwave sensing of the geographic environment. Emphasis on analysis of digital imagery.
GY 407 Advanced Geomorphology (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 352.
This course covers the erosional, transportation, and depositional processes responsible for shaping Earth's surface. Specifically, the course reviews hydrologic geomorphology (surface water, groundwater, and glacial ice), aeolian and desert geomorphology, plate tectonics, volcanism, and hillslope processes. This course will combine lectures, readings based on recent contributions to the field, discussions, field data collection, calculations, and other activities.
GY 409 Music Geography (3)
This course explores the reciprocal relationship between music and geography. Music plays an active role in the development
and depiction of politics, economics, human-environment interactions, and local and global communications in place. Through
music individuals create connections to the landscape, neighborhoods, architecture, identities, and therefore places. This course
investigates the geography of music, with particular emphasis on the development of the discipline, types of music used in a North
American context, the scales of geographic identities crafted and connected through music, the role of music in place, and the power
of music for the creation of identity.
GY 431 Topics in Physical Geography (WI) (3)
Advanced geographic study of various facets of the natural environment; topic selection varies; see instructor. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 12 semester hours. (Writing Intensive Course)
GY 453 Analyzing Spatial Networks (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 307.
Undergraduate Introduction to topology theory and its employment in GIS network analysis. Emphasis on methods of determining efficient paths, modeling network flows, and creating efficient service areas for organization entities.
GY 454 Site Location Analysis (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 307.
Undergraduate Emphasis on evaluating existing site location efficiencies, determining of appropriate point site and area site locations for organizational entities, and analyzing environmental impact analyses using GIS.
GY 466 Topics in Cultural Geography (WI) (3)
Advanced geographic study of various facets of human culture. Topic selection varies. May be duplicated for credit for a total of 12 semester hours. (Writing Intensive Course)
GY 475 Natural Hazards (3)
An introduction to natural hazards, their causes, distribution and impacts. Focus on human perception, vulnerability and risk analysis.
GY 490 Colloquium (1)
Prerequisite(s): A completed piece of research must be submitted prior to enrollment in this course.
Results of a basic research project in geography are presented in a conference setting using PowerPoint or equivalent software. Grades: Pass/Fail.
Geology
GL 241 Physical Geology (3)
GL 243 is required but not concurrently. Modern concepts of the Earth's physical composition, crustal structures, and the internal/external forces acting on them.
GL 242 Historical Geology (3)
GL 244 is required but not concurrently. Study of the Earth's evolution, including changes in its crust, surface features, atmosphere, and life forms.
GL 243 Physical Geology Lab (1)
GL 241 is required but not concurrently. Emphasis on rock/mineral identification and the study of landforms through topographic and geologic map interpretation. One two-hour lab per week.
GL 244 Historical Geology Lab (1)
GL 242 is required but not concurrently. Study of Earth history using geologic maps and the fossil record of plant and animal development. One two-hour lab per week.
Geographical Information Systems
GIS 308 Geovisualization and Cartography (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 307.
An examination of the design and implementation of effective visualization of geographic data. The theoretical basis of cartography, visual perception and communication models, the creation, analysis, and interactive and interactive mapping techniques. Geovisualization offers new perspectives on digital principles of GIS and ways to work with public and private stakeholders. Topics include cartographic principles, mapping techniques, and multivariate mapping.
GIS 406 Advanced Remote Sensing (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 302.
Advanced techniques, data collection, and analytical methods using various types of remotely sensed data. These will include LiDAR data, Ground Penetrating Radar, and various types of multi-spectral data from satellites such as Landsat, Quickbird, Ikonos, SPOT, and others. Multi-spectral data will include: thermal, natural color (RBG), near to far-infared and others. This course will use various methodologies for collection, classification (supervised ad unsupervised), and analysis of digital data to accomplish change detection, Normalized difference Vegetation Index (NVD1), land use-land cover (LULC), etc.
GIS 408 Drone Piloting and Mapping (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 307.
This course will teach students the FAA rules regulations with drone aircraft piloting and associated mapping techniques. Students will examine remotely sensed images from various angles, scales, platforms, resolutions, and wavelengths for the purpose of identifying objects, judging their significance.
GIS 419 Geospatial Programming (3)
This course explores the use of scripting languages, such as Python and R, to create applications that perform fundamental spatial statistical analysis, such as geoprocessing, spatial autocorrelation, database management, spatial regression, and map creation. Students will explore data analysis and data modeling. Students will demonstrate knowledge of programming concepts and approaches and develop solutions to problems by automating geoprocessing tasks. The student will provide their code and data in an open-source platform for reproducibility.
GIS 420 Web-based GIS: Technologies and Applications (3)
Prerequisites for Undergraduate: GY 307 or equivalent. Prerequisites for Graduate: GIS 451 or GIS 510 or equivalent. This course introduces students to the growing field of web-based GIS. The course focuses on the design, development, and implementation of web mapping applications, allowing students to apply techniques in real-world applications. Students taking this course will be required to develop a web GIS application. For graduate credit, a separate GIS application must be hosted by the GIS server and published to the World Wide Web.
GIS 451 Applied Geographical Information Systems (3)
Prerequisite(s): GY 307.
Training in advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques using spatial data collection, project design, geospatial modeling, data management, and implementation. This course examines the use of GIS to solve real-world spatial problems. This course will require a project to be designed and implemented by the student with pre-approval of instructor. For graduate credit, the project must be completely self-contained and, as a deliverable, must include final map plotted at 24"x36" containing accurate symbology and registration and follow all general cartographic principles.
GIS 456 Spatial Data, Layout, and Design (3)
Prerequisite(s): GIS 451.
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of map composition, map layout and design, chart creation, and data classification. The student should be able to produce aesthetically accurate and meaningful maps, charts, and cartograms to display and define results of spatial analytics. The project must incorporate design principles, cartographic layout, or a unique approach to Geo-visualization.
GIS 459 Spatial Data Collection and Management (3)
Prerequisites for Undergraduate: GIS 451 or equivalent. Prerequisites for Graduate: GIS 451 or GIS 510 or permission of the department head. This course covers multiple methods of capturing data, acquiring and importing existing spatial data (both raster and vector) into geographic information systems, and deriving spatial information from these data. This includes manipulation and management of spatial data from various platforms, devices, and sources. For graduate credit, the student must develop a project using various data types (vector, raster, LiDAR, etc.) and produce a complete and self-contained project. The student will also be required to present the project to a public forum (class, lecture, colloquium, etc.)
Physics
PHS 201 College Physics I (3)
Prerequisite(s): MS 113 or 117.
Concurrent enrollment in PHS 203 is required. This course is the first half of a two-semester sequence that introduces basic concepts in physics. Beginning with mechanics and motion, we develop methods for mathematically describing the way objects move and predicting their future movement. The course proceeds to study wave motion with springs, strings, water, sound, and light. Does not count toward the Physics minor. Credit will not be granted for both 201 and 211.
PHS 202 College Physics II (3)
Prerequisite(s): PHS 201 and either MS 113 or MS 119.
Concurrent enrollment in PHS 204 is required. The second half of this sequence of courses begins by studying electricity and basic circuits, followed by magnetism. A section on light, including lenses and mirrors, follows. The behavior of light waves such as rainbows and soap bubbles will also be explored. Finally, topics from quantum mechanics and special relativity are introduced to give students a flavor of the revolutionary nature of these topics in their original scientific setting. Does not count toward the Physics minor. Credit will not be given for both PHS 202 and PHS 212.
PHS 203 College Physics Laboratory Techniques I (1)
Concurrent enrollment in PHS 201 is required. Two laboratory hours each week. Concepts of physics developed in the associated courses will be studied through the use of hands-on activities. Students will work in groups to explore topics in motion, mechanics, waves, and sound. Does not count toward the physics minor. PHS 203 is cross-listed with PHS 213, and only one may be taken for credit.
PHS 204 College Physics Laboratory Techniques II (1)
Concurrent enrollment in PHS 202 is required. Two laboratory hours each week. Concepts of physics developed in the associated courses will be studied through the use of hands-on activities. Students will work in groups to explore topics in electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Does not count toward the physics minor. PHS 204 is cross-listed with PHS 214, and only one may be taken for credit.
PHS 221 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I w/Lab (4)
Corequisite(s): MS 125.
Prerequisite or First in a two-semester introductory sequence introducing major ideas from classical physics. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, conservation laws, and waves. Course meetings include lab activities, group discussions, and lectures. The lab component is incorporated into the class time. Calculus is integrated into the mathematical language of the course. Credit will not be granted for both PHS 201 and 221.
PHS 222 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II w/Lab (4)
Prerequisite(s): PHS 221.
Corequisite(s): MS 126.
Prerequisite or Second in a two-semester sequence introducing major ideas of physics. Topics include electricity, magnetism, optics, and thermal physics. Course meetings include lab activities, group discussions, and lectures. The lab component is incorporated into the class time. Calculus is integrated into the mathematical language of the course. Credit will not be granted for both PHS 202 and 222.
PHS 301 Modern Physics (3)
Prerequisite(s): PHS 221 and PHS 222.
Explore the two 20th century revolutions in physics: quantum mechanics and special relativity. We will study the evidence that led to the acceptance of each of these theories and some of the implications of these theories. Both quantum mechanics and relativity have become part of popular culture. This course offers the opportunity to understand their ideas in their original context and see how popular culture's usage differs from scientific usage.
PHS 303 Classical Mechanics (3)
PHS 327 Elementary Radiation Physics (3)
This course is intended for any student interested in radiation safety and specifically for students in Physics, Chemistry, Pre-medicine, Pre-dentistry, Nursing, Biology, and Archaeology. The course objective is to provide individuals with the knowledge and procedures necessary to minimize exposures to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation and to understand the physiological and environmental effects of radiation. Instruction will include lectures, discussions, demonstration, and laboratory exercises.
PHS 343 Electromagnetic Fields (3)
Prerequisite(s): MS 227, PHS 221, and PHS 222.
Electric and magnetic fields will be studied. What are their origins? What features of nature affect the nature and strength of the fields? What are some of their effects? Maxwell's equations uniting all of electricity and magnetism will be seen in their full glory.
PHS 350 Physics in Music (3)
This course will explore the physics involved in music. A variety of questions with sound and music will be explored. What physical properties can be used to describe sound? How do musical instruments produce sound? What are the physical reasons that instruments playing the same note sound different? How does sound travel through space? Why does your voice sound so different on a recording? Students will be encouraged to generate and explore their own questions. Some of the class periods will be devoted to a hands-on look at ideas. This course is designed to be descriptive in nature rather than highly mathematical. No math or physics prerequisites.
PHS 371 Astronomy (4)
3 hours lecture/2 hours lab per week. A survey of the structure and evolution of the universe, from planets to stars and galaxies. Questions about the nature of science, limits to current knowledge, and the influence of space science will be addressed. The course culminates in individual in-dept explorations of particular aspects of astronomy.
PHS 383 Special Topics (3)
PHS 491 Quantum Mechanics (3)