Astronomy (AST)

A study of the solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. An elementary survey of astronomy as both a human activity and a physical science. Primarily for non-science majors. This is a state-designated general education core course.

A study of the solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. An elementary survey of astronomy as both a human activity and a physical science. Primarily for non-science majors. The honors aspect of the course will promote the student's passion for learning, written and spoken expression, and self-reflection through research studies, presentations, and community engagement. This course is a state-designated general education core course and an honors course.

Introduction to the interdisciplinary principles of astrobiology, an inquiry-based evaluation of potential alien ecosystems and extraterrestrial life within the context of their origins on Earth. Establishes the structure, interactions, and limits of biology in various Earth environments, proposing analogues of suitable conditions relative to past and contemporary discoveries involving the habitability of Mars, Venus, and Jovian planet satellites. Features a survey of remote sensing, bio-signatures, and relative planetary, astronomical, and biological requites for the development and maintenance of a biosphere. This overview includes habitable zones, solar, physical, atmospheric, bio-geological, and chemical parameters employed in the search for life and hospitable worlds within and beyond the solar system.

This course gives the student the opportunity to understand the relationship of theory to practice through participation in a service-learning experience. Students are required to complete 20 hours of volunteer work, a service-learning contract, and an oral and written reflection of the experience.