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:
- 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
- Recognize the scope and limits of science.
- 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.).
- Evaluate scientific information (e.g., distinguish primary and secondary sources, assess credibility and validity of information).
- 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 either the Natural Sciences Overview (non-lab) or Natural Sciences with lab proposal worksheet. Submit the appropriate form, the course syllabus, and any applicable assignments to CIM when complete.
Review the course submissions guide for a more detailed overview.