Physical Science (PHS)

PHS-151 Introduction to Astronomy  (3)  

Centers around a variety of topics including the universe and the earth in space, properties of stars, nuclear energy sources, the solar system, quasars, black holes and life in the universe. Incorporates laboratories and observations. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A

Hours per week: 2.0 lecture, 2.0 lab

PHS-170 Physical Geology  (3)  

Explores how natural forces shape our planet and how geology is tied together through the theory of plate tectonics. Covers common earth materials, history of the Earth, geological resources and geologic hazards. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A; Comments: Either Physical Geology (PHS-170) or Environmental Geology (PHS-175) will satisfy three hours of science core requirements. However, both cannot be counted toward meeting core. If both courses are taken, the second will count as an elective.

Hours per week: 3.0 lecture

PHS-171 Physical Geology Lab  (1)  

Designed to be taken with PHS-170. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A

Hours per week: 2.0 lab

Pre/corequisite: Take PHS-170.

PHS-175 Environmental Geology  (3)  

Examines the effects of geological processes and geohazards on human life and activities. Explores common earth materials, volcanoes, earthquakes, flooding, water pollution, mining, and climate change. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A; Comments: Either Physical Geology (PHS-170) or Environmental Geology (PHS-175) will satisfy three hours of science core requirements. However, both cannot be counted toward meeting core. If both courses are taken, the second will count as an elective.

Hours per week: 3.0 lecture

PHS-176 Environmental Geology Laboratory  (1)  

Designed to be taken with PHS-175. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A

Hours per week: 2.0 lab

Pre/corequisite: Take PHS-175.

PHS-180 Evolution of the Earth  (3)  

Considers interdisciplinary principles, techniques and methods essential to the interpretation of the geological history of the earth. Examines the development of plate tectonics and continental drift through geological time and the progression and evolution of life from Pre-Cambrian time to present time. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A

Hours per week: 3.0 lecture

PHS-924 Honors Project  (1)  

Allows a qualified honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance of a faculty member. Requires completion of an honors project contract. May be taken more than once. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A; Comments: Permission of instructor and dean

Hours per week: 1.0 lecture

PHS-928 Independent Study  (1)  

Allows for a special concentration of study under the guidance of a faculty member. Requires an independent study contract. May be taken more than once. Arts & Sciences Elective Code: A; Comments: Permission of instructor and dean

Hours per week: 2.0 lab