Natural Sciences, Lab and Non-Lab

The general education natural sciences courses engage students in scientific exploration; foster their curiosity; enhance their enthusiasm for science; and enable them to apply scientific knowledge and reasoning to personal, professional and public decision-making. Natural Science Lab courses must meet all five learning outcomes. Natural Science Overview (non-lab) courses must meet learning outcomes 1 through 4.

Learning Outcomes: 

Upon completing the Natural Science courses, students will be able to: 

  1. Understand how scientific inquiry is based on investigation of evidence from the natural world, and that scientific knowledge and understanding:
    • a) evolves based on new evidence
    • b) differs from personal and cultural beliefs
  2. Recognize the scope and limits of science.
  3. Recognize and articulate the relationship between the natural sciences and society and the application of science to societal challenges (e.g., health, conservation, sustainability, energy, natural disasters, etc.).
  4. Evaluate scientific information (e.g., distinguish primary and secondary sources, assess credibility and validity of information).
  5. Participate in scientific inquiry and communicate the elements of the process, including:
    • a) Making careful and systematic observations
    • b) Developing and testing a hypothesis
    • c) Analyzing evidence
    • d) Interpreting results

Required: Two approved science courses. At least one course will have laboratory experience. 7 credits

Approved Courses: For the current list of approved courses, please see the Catalog.


Course Approval Process

To submit a course for this category, please complete the applicable proposal worksheet provided below. Two versions of each document are provided for your convenience. Submit one complete form, the course syllabus, and any applicable assignments to CIM when complete.

Review the course submissions guide for a more detailed overview.