NTSC 10100. Evolution of the Natural World I: Evolution of the Solar System and the Earth. 100 Units.

This course examines the physical and chemical origins of planetary systems, the role of meteorite studies in this context, and a comparison of the Earth with neighboring planets. It then turns to chemical and physical processes that lead to internal differentiation of the Earth. Further topics include the thermal balance at the Earth's surface (glaciation and the greenhouse effect), and the role of liquid water in controlling crustal geology and evolution. (L)

Instructor(s): A. Davis     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): MATH 10600, or placement into 13100 or higher

NTSC 10200. Evolution of the Natural World II: Evolution of the Universe. 100 Units.

This course is designed to encourage a sense of awe, appreciation, and understanding of the topics investigated in modern astrophysics, such as the origin of the universe, the formation and evolution of the sun and the Earth, the nature of space and time, and the search for other planets and life in the universe. Students also experience the predicting, testing, and investigative nature of science.

Instructor(s): C. Hogan. L. J. Carlstrom     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): MATH 10600, or placement into 13100 or higher; NTSC 10100

NTSC 10300. Evolution of the Natural World III: Biological Evolution. 100 Units.

This course is an introduction to evolutionary processes and patterns in present-day organisms and in the fossil record and how they are shaped by biological and physical forces. Topics emphasize evolutionary principles. They include DNA and the genetic code, the genetics of populations, the origins of species, and evolution above the species level. We also discuss major events in the history of life, such as the origin of complex cells, invasion of land, and mass extinction. (L)

Instructor(s): D. Jablonski     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): For students in the NTSC sequence: MATH 10600, or placement into MATH 13100 or higher; NTSC 10200. For students in the BIOS sequence: MATH 10600, or placement into MATH 13100 or higher; BIOS 10130
Equivalent Course(s): BIOS 13123

NTSC 10400. Environmental Ecology. 100 Units.

This course emphasizes basic scientific understanding of ecological principles that relate most closely to the ways humans interact with their environments. It includes lectures on the main environmental pressures, notably human population growth, disease, pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, and harvesting. We emphasize the ongoing impacts on the natural world, particularly causes of population regulation and extinction and how they might feed back on to humans. Discussion required.

Instructor(s): T. Price     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): NTSC 10300
Equivalent Course(s): BIOS 13107,ENST 12404