Science Courses
SCIE 1100 Environmental Issues (3 credits)
The survival of this planet as we know it will, in large part, depend upon people acquiring an understanding of the intricate interrelationship of the physical, chemical and biological systems found in nature and the impact upon them of human activity. In this context, this course will review the critical environmental issues of our time.
To find out where this course transfers, check the BC Transfer Guide.Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 4
Offered: Fall or Winter
SCIE 1106 Introduction to Physical Science (5 credits)
This course is a basic introduction to physical science and is intended for students with little or no science background. It will present an integrated approach to topics in physics and chemistry which will include the scientific method, laws of motion, energy, heat and temperature, electricity and magnetism, light atoms, molecules, chemical reactions and the atomic nucleus. Laboratory exercises will illustrate the practical applications of course content.
To find out where this course transfers, check the BC Transfer Guide.Prerequisite: None (MATH 1101 or equivalent recommended)
Lecture: 3; Laboratory: 4
Offered: Fall or Winter
SCIE 1107 Introduction to Environmental Science (5 credits)
Within the framework of marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, this course considers the characteristics of the natural environment and in particular the potential for environmental destruction. Questions such as the disposal of toxic wastes, natural hazards (landslides, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes), resource exploitation and land use planning are discussed with special emphasis, through fieldwork, on the local or regional environment. The course is specifically designed for students with little or no background in science.
To find out where this course transfers, check the BC Transfer Guide.Prerequisite: None
Lecture: 4; Laboratory: 1.5; Field experience: 1.5
Offered: Fall or Winter
SCIE 1108 Quantitative Studies for Environmental Science (3 credits)
This course explores mathematics with applications for environmental science, and related topics in biology and geology. The course will review algebra, and focus on environmental applications of linear and non-linear functions, descriptive statistics, geometry and trigonometry. Problems and cases will illustrate "real world" situations in environmental science.
Prerequisite: Foundations of Math 11 OR Principles of Math 11 "C-" or DVST 0411 "C-" or Math 11 exemption test or equivalent
Lecture: 3; Seminar: 1
Offered: Fall or Winter
SCIE 2207 Field Methods for Environmental Science (3 credits)
This course introduces students to work in the field, where data are collected and observations made. The course allows students to learn a number of environmental field skills, including: soil, mineral and rock description and classification; sampling and testing methods for water quality and invertebrate assemblage; mapping methods and air photo interpretation. Most work will take place in fieldtrip situations, with the students organized as teams.
Prerequisites: BIOL 1110, GEOL 1120, 1121, SCIE 1107
Lecture: 2; Laboratory/Field Trip: 6
Offered: Fall or Winter
SCIE 2307 Field Research Project (4 credits)
The focus of this course is a semester-long research project involving a field location associated with a particular environmental topic. The project will be analagous to a major project undertaken by an environmental consulting company. Students will engage in data collection and analysis relevant to the environmental issue associated with the field location. Technical report writing and working in teams are required components of this course.
Prerequisites: SCIE 1107, BIOL 1110, BIOL 1210, CHEM 1110
Lecture: 2; Laboratory/Field Trip: 6
Offered: Fall or Winter