Science course descriptions
Sci-202 Science of Everyday Things (2)
Lecture 1, Lab. 2 - Study of the science of everyday things with special use of particle and wave models. Understanding and
explaining a wide variety of common phenomena in our lives; weather, household items, color effects, radio, TV, electricity, athletics,
heating and cooling, etc. Prerequisite: H.S. biology, chemistry, and physics or equivalent.
Sci-230 Introduction to Forensic Science – Lecture (3)
Lecture 3 - See Bio-230
Sci-231 Introduction to Forensic Science Lab (1)
Lab. 2 - See Bio-231
Sci-281 Physical Geography and Geology (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - See Geog-281.
Sci-315 Environmental Science (3)
See Geog-315.
Sci-331 Descriptive Astronomy (3)
Introductory study of what is known about the universe and how this knowledge is gained. Prerequisite: H.S. physics or equivalent.
Same as Phys-331.
Sci-351 Classroom Activities in Physical Science (3)
Lecture I, Lab. 4 - Practical guidance and experience in the planning, preparation and execution of educational activities in
introductory physical science, chemistry and physics. Useful for all levels with special emphasis on grades 7-12. Same as Phys-351.
Sci-365 Science and Society (1)
Lectures and periodical readings on recent and current science topics of interest to the “layman.” Science topics chosen for their
impact on the individual and on society. Moral and religious implications of ideas and scientific advances are explored. P/F
Sci-381 Meteorology and Oceanography (3)
See Geog-381.
Sci-385 Bio-Fuels Management (3)
Provides employees, managers, and potential employees in the bio-fuels industries a fuller understanding of the management,
science, and technology involved in bio-fuel development. Students will focus on the entire process of bio-fuel manufacture, including
the economics of grain/oilseed supply, fermentation/distillation processes, production management, marketing, and distribution, and
the chemistry of fuels. Same as Bus-385.
Physics course descriptions
Phys-109 Introductory Physics (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - An introduction to the concepts of physics used to understand and explain the sensibleness of nature, particle and
wave ideas, theories that explain everyday phenomena. Not open to students who have had a year of high school physics.
Phys-110 Principles of Physics (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - A study of general physics through experiments, lectures and discussion. Science as a way of knowing —
Scientific methodology and practice; mechanics of particles and of waves; momentum, energy and conservation laws;
thermodynamics; electricity and magnetism; light; relativity and quantum mechanics.
Phys-111 General Physics I (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - Experiments, lectures and discussions to reveal the sensibleness of nature via mechanics of particles and waves
as models, relativity and conservation laws, momentum and energy, and the nature of scientific inquiry. Prerequisite: a year of high
physics or Phys-109, one year of high school algebra or equivalent and trigonometry (concurrent registration acceptable).
Phys-112 General Physics II (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - Continuation of Physics 111 with special emphasis on electricity and magnetism, light, and relativity and their
relation to conservation principles and current scientific explanation. Prerequisite: Phys-111 or equivalent.
Phys-211 General Physics I Calculus Topics (1)
Lecture 1. A calculus-based treatment of topics covered in Phys-111. Enrollment in Phys-211 and Phys-111 is equivalent to taking a
calculus-based general physics course. Prerequisites: Phys-111 or concurrent registration. Math-184 or concurrent registration with
instructor’s permission.
Phys-212 General Physics II Calculus Topics (1)
Lecture 1. A calculus-based treatment of topics covered in Phys-112. Enrollment in Phys-212 and Phys-112 is equivalent to taking a
calculus-based general physics course. Prerequisites: Phys-112 or concurrent registration. Math-186 or concurrent registration with
instructor’s permission.
Phys-221 Statics (3)
The study of forces on bodies in equilibrium. Force systems, equilibrium, structures, trusses, frames and machines, distributed forces,
beams, friction, centers of mass and moments of inertia. Prerequisites: Math-186, Phys-111 or equivalent.
Phys-321 Introductory Mechanics (3)
Lecture 3 - Calculus treatment of the motion of particles and rigid bodies using Newtonian force methods: non-inertial reference
frames, classical mechanics, relativistic laws of motion of a particle. Prerequisites: calculus and Phys-111 or permission of instructor,
Phys-381 is recommended.
Phys-331 Descriptive Astronomy (3)
Lecture 3 - See Science-331.
Phys-351 Classroom Activities with Physical Science (3)
Lecture 1, Lab. 4 - See Sci-351.
Phys-371 Electronics (3)
Laboratory approach to the study of integrated circuits and transistors. Classroom component for supporting theory. Prerequisites:
calculus and General Physics II.
Phys-381 Modern Physics (3)
Lecture 3 - Physics of the 20th century. Relativity, the wave-particle duality, atomic models, the quantum theory. Prerequisites:
general physics and calculus.
Phys-382 Advanced Physics Lab. I, II, III (1)
Lab. 3 - Selected experiments in modern physics requiring library research. Prerequisite: Phys-381 or concurrent registration. May be
taken more than once.
Phys-383 Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics (3)
Study of nuclear radiations, nuclear structure and models, and the energetics of sub-atomic particle interactions. Prerequisite: Phys-
112 and 381, Calculus or concurrent registration, or permission of instructor.
Phys-390 Electricity and Magnetism (3)
Study of electrical and magnetic phenomena and their understanding through models and formulation. Prerequisite: Phys-112 and
Math-186 or equivalent, Phys-381 is recommended.
Phys-395 Advanced Topics in Physics Seminar (3)
Advanced study of the concepts and techniques of an area of physics important to the field and outside the content of other physics
courses. Specific topics will be determined by the instructor and the students, and may include Quantum Mechanics,
Thermodynamics, Optics, Astrophysics, or Atomic Physics. Prerequisites: Upper-level standing in physics or physical sciences, or
approval of the instructor.
Geography course descriptions
Geog-101 Introduction to Geography (3)
This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts, technology, and methodology used in the study of geography. Using lecture, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), GIS, field work, and multi-media, students learn to think spatially about their surroundings.
Geog-102 World Regional Geography (3)
This course is designed to provide a broad overview of the major regions of the world with emphasis on the increasing interconnectedness of people and places due to the influence of globalization on world trade, travel, communication, culture, and the natural environment.
Geog-281 Physical Geography and Geology (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - Introduction to the climactic and physical processes shaping the Earth’s crust and the interrelationship between humans and the natural environment. Students will learn through the interpretation of maps and remotely sensed imagery, laboratory activities, and a multi-day field trip. Same as ESci-281 and Sci-281.Course Fee.
Geog-311 Geography of North America (3)
A systematic analysis of major themes of North American geography with emphasis on problems such as energy and environment. Includes regional analyses of the United States and Canada that carefully examines their physical background and cultural trends. Prerequisite: Geog-101 or 102, or permission of instructor.
Geog-315 Environmental Science (3)
This course provides a broad introduction to the field of environmental science. Topics include global warming, energy issues, food and agriculture, biofuels, pollution, wildlife management and conservation, human population, and natural systems. Same as ESci-315 and Sci-315.
Geog-320 Natural Resource Management and Conservation in the National Parks (3)
Course provides students with a practical, field-based experience with contemporary resource management and conservation issues in units of the National Park Service. Topics include historical development of individual parks and the entire NPS, visitor impacts, park planning, resource policy, exotic plant and animal species, wildlife management, in-park transportation concerns, public safety, and wilderness management. Students will visit and camp in selected national parks. Same as ESci-320.
Geog-331 Geography of Europe (3)
This course provides a detailed examination of the historic and contemporary geography of Europe. Special focus is placed upon contemporary issues relating to the formation and governance of the European Union, immigration, world trade, geopolitics, environmentalism, and foreign relations.
Geog-341 Geography of Asia (3)
This course provides a contemporary examination of the geography of Eastern and Southern Asia. Through the use of current events, readings, and multi-media, students examine the rising influence of this region on world trade, commerce, globalization, foreign relations, geopolitics, and the natural environment.
Geog-345 Geography and Archaeology of the Holy Land (3)
Provides an introduction to the archaeology of Syria-Palestine, the interaction between human occupation and geography, and the importance of archaeological research in understanding the Bible through detailed study of primary and secondary sources.
Geog-361 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (3)
Lec. 1, Lab 2. This course provides in introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology through the use of ESRIs ArcGIS software. Students gain a working knowledge of GIS software and how it is used in various disciplines via laboratory exercises, lecture, guest speakers, and a class project. Same as ESci-361.
Geog-371 Economic Geography (3)
Spatial characteristics of people and their economic activities. Both historical-inductive and theoretical-deductive explanations are given for spatial location of primary, secondary and tertiary activities. Recommended: prior economics or geography.
Geog-381 Meteorology and Oceanography (3)
An introduction to the properties and processes of the atmosphere and the world ocean. In addition, emphasis will be placed on the application of recent scientific advances in these related fields and how they affect the world we live in. Same as Sci-381.
Geog-385 Field Techniques and Geodata Collection (3)
Course provides students with the opportunity to conduct original field research in geography. Students will use a variety of methods, including surveys, GPS units, GIS, digital photography, interviews, Internet mapping websites, and archival research to complete a series of field projects. Same as Sci-385.
Geog-391 Urban Geography (3)
The spatial evaluation of cities; including the history, site and situation, external relations, internal characteristics, the rise of urban centers, comparative aspects of cities, their present development and urban problems are examined. Prerequisite: Geog-101 or 102, or permission of instructor.
Geog-461 Advanced Geographic Information Systems (3)
See ESci-461.
Chemistry course descriptions
Chem-109 Introductory Chemistry (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - An introduction to the concepts of inorganic chemistry, the common elements, and their compounds. Selected topics in organic chemistry, polymer science, biochemistry, food chemistry, and fuels chemistry. May serve as a prerequisite for Chem-115. This course is intended for students with little or no previous chemistry experience.
Chem-115 General Chemistry (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - General principles of chemistry with emphasis on inorganic. Prerequisite: A year of H.S. chemistry or Chem-109.
Chem-116 General Inorganic and Qualitative Analysis (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - A continuation of general inorganic chemistry and the application of the subject to the fundamentals of qualitative analysis. Prerequisite: Chem-115.
Chem-231 Organic Chemistry I (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - The compounds of the aliphatic and aromatic series, stressing general principles. The basic understandings in this area, an appreciation of the relation of organic chemistry to daily life. Prerequisite: Chem-115
Chem-313 Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (3)
Lecture 3 - An advanced course with emphasis on inorganic chemistry from the standpoint of the periodic table. Atomic structure, theories of acids and bases, coordination chemistry, chemical bonds, and oxidation potentials. Prerequisites: Chem-116 and Chem-231.
Chem-325 Quantitative Analytical Chemistry (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - The fundamental principles of gravimetric and volumetric quantitative analysis and including some instrumental analysis. Prerequisite: Chem-116.
Chem-331 Organic Chemistry II (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - This course, along with Chemistry-231, covers the material typically covered in the first year organic chemistry course. Prerequisites: Chem-116 (or concurrent enrollment) and Chem-231.
Chem-345 Introductory Biochemistry (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - Introduction to the biochemistry of carbohydrates, fats, proteins and nucleic acids; the metabolism of foods. Prerequisites: Chem-231 and introductory biology.
Chem-353 Physical Chemistry (3)
Lecture 3 - A theoretical study of chemistry dealing with the gaseous, liquid, solid and colloidal states of subdivision, solution, thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, equilibrium, and electrochemistry. Prerequisites: Chem-116, Chem-231and Math-186 (or concurrent enrollment in Math-186), Phys-111 is recommended.
Chem-354 Physical Chemistry II (3)
Lecture 3 - A continuation of Chem-353, Statistical Mechanics. An introduction to Quantum Mechanics with applications to the structure of atoms and molecules and to spectroscopy. Prerequisites: Chem-116, Chem-231, Math-186. Phys-111 and Math-284 are recommended.
Chem-355 Physical Chemistry Laboratory (1)
Lab. 3
Chem-356 Physical Chemistry Laboratory II (1)
Lab. 3
Chem-395 Advanced Topics in Chemistry Seminar (3)
Advanced study of the concepts and techniques of an area of chemistry important to the field and outside the content of other chemistry courses. Specific topics will be determined by the instructor and the students, and may include Instrumental Analysis, Theoretical Chemistry, Chemical Synthesis, or Physical Biochemistry. Prerequisites: Upper-level standing in chemistry or approval of the instructor.
Chem-399 Chemistry/Biochemistry Internship (3)
Students gain experience in a chemistry and/or biochemistry-related field by working in an internship position under the direct supervision of a chemist and/or a biochemist. Students should consult the Chemistry faculty and the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process. Prerequisites: Bio-111, Bio-112, Chem-115, Chem-116, Chem-231, Chem-325, Chem-331, minimum junior standing and permission of the chemistry faculty.
Biology course descriptions
Bio-110 Principles of Biology (4)
Lecture 3, Lab 2 - A study of general biology: Science as a way of knowing – Scientific methodology and practice, literacy in biological literature and research, study of cells, cell organelles, molecular biology, genetics, systematics, structure and function of plants and animals, reproduction, growth and development, population biology, evolution as a paradigm and ecology. Prerequisites: 1 year of high school biology and chemistry.
Bio-111 General Biology I (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - A study of general biology: Science as a way of knowing—Scientific methodology and practice; literacy in biological literature and research, study of cells and molecular biology, cell organelles, inclusions, function, and a study of genetics. Prerequisites: a year of high school biology; college chemistry or two semesters of high school chemistry with a grade of B or better.
Bio-112 General Biology II (4)
Lecture 3, Lab 2 - A study of general biology, a continuation of General Biology I: organismic biology, structure and function of plants and animals, reproduction, growth and development, population biology, evolution as a paradigm and ecology. Prerequisites: a year of high school biology or Bio-111, college chemistry or two semesters of high school chemistry with a grade of B or better.
Bio-122 General Zoology (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - An introductory course in animal biology. This course includes the general biological concepts as they pertain to the animal kingdom.
Bio-141 General Botany (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - Basic concepts of plant life through a study of the structure, functional form, reproduction and ecology of select plant groups from the plant kingdom.
Bio-207 Human Genetics: Applications and Issues (3)
A study of the basic principles of human genetics, their applications in society, and the issues that arise from these applications.
Bio-208 General Genetics (3)
An overview of genetic principles and their applications to inheritance and to include supportive studies of representative plants and animals. Discussion will include implications for humans. Prerequisite: Bio-111 or instructor’s permission.
Bio-217 Community Ecology (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - A study of ecological principles as applied primarily to the community level. Includes the structure, function, and changes within communities. Trophic function and material cycling, successional changes, and interrelationships among members of the communities. Will include numerous local field trips. Comparisons of communities studied. Prerequisite: Biology on the high school or college level. May not be used to satisfy ecology course requirements for secondary education biology majors or B.S. in biology, can be taken as an elective in those programs. May be used as ecology requirement in elementary education concentration or minor, or as general education science requirement.
Bio-222 Entomology (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - A survey of the orders of insects; dealing with structure, habitat and life cycles. Laboratory work, collection and identification of local insects.
Bio-225 Vertebrate Anatomy and Morphology (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - This course provides a background in comparative and functional vertebrate anatomy morphology. Prerequisite: Bio-112 or permission.
Bio-230 Introduction to Forensic Science (3)
Lecture 3 - Survey of the application of science to the law. Topics include pathology, anthropology, chemical analysis of drugs and other evidence, DNA, ballistics, and crime scene investigation. Prerequisites: high school or college level biology, chemistry, and physics, or concurrent registration with instructor’s approval. Same as Sci-230.
Bio-231 Introduction to Forensic Science Lab (1)
Lab. 2 - Selected introductory laboratory applications in forensic science. Prerequisites: Bio 230 or concurrent registration. Same as Sci-231.
Bio-243 Elements of Human Anatomy and Physiology (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 2 - A study of the human body, its structure and function. Course will include introduction to the microscopic and gross anatomy of the body, a survey of each body system and the homeostatic mechanisms of the body. Prerequisite: College biology, Chem-109 or equivalent. Course may not be used in biology concentration, or major, or to fulfill requirements for health professional programs.
Bio-271 Introductory Embryology (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - A study of normal and abnormal development in animals. Comparative studies of representative animals and man. Prerequisite: Bio-111 or Bio-112 or instructor’s permission.
Bio-288 Animal Behavior (3)
A study of animal behavior, its theoretical basis, basic concepts, and applications to the interpretation of the natural world. The relationship of animal behavior to the study of man.
Bio-308 Modern Techniques in Genetics and Molecular Biology (3)
An advanced genetics course focusing on modern techniques in genetics and molecular biology. Prerequisite: Bio-208.
Bio-317 Ecology and Field Biology (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. – A field ecology course. Emphasis placed on fundamental ecological concepts with supportive material coming from the literature and field investigations. Prerequisite: Bio-112 or permission.
Bio-319 Cell and Molecular Biology (3)
An introduction to the structure and functions of cells, organelles, and cellular energetics. The study of cytogenetics and the control mechanisms of cellular function. The application of current research to biomedical practice as well as industrial processes. Prerequisites: Chem-345 and eight hours biology on the college level.
Bio-320 Histology (3)
A systematic study of tissues of vertebrates with primary emphasis on humans. An introduction to the technology used to prepare specimens for study. Introduction of histology to medical applications. Prerequisites: College chemistry (Organic Chemistry I recommended), eight hours of biology on the college level.
Bio 324 – The Nebraska Story: Natural History and Writers of Nebraska’s Great Plains (3)
See Eng-324.
Bio-330 Advanced Forensic Science (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 – An advanced course focusing on the basic and applied science aspects of forensic science and criminalistics. Prerequisites: Bio-230 and Bio-231.
Bio-343 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - A study of general principles of physiology, cell structure and function, cell metabolism and division. A survey of tissues, integumentary, skeletal, muscle, and nervous system. Prerequisite: Bio-110, 111, or 112, or approval of instructor. Lab required.
Bio-344 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
Lecture 3, Lab. 3 - A survey of the circulatory, respiratory, digestion, excretion, endocrine and reproductive systems. Introduction to nutrition and bio-rhythms. Prerequisite: Bio-110, 111, or 112, or approval of instructor. Bio-343 not necessary. Lab required.
Bio-345 Midwest Floral Identification (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 2 - The principles of flowering plant classification are studied. Plant family relationships and distributions are emphasized by collection and identification in field and laboratory.
Bio-351 General Microbiology (4)
Lecture 2, Lab. 4 - An introduction to the activities of bacteria and fungi. The laboratory will be concerned with the culture, physiology, and identification of the major groups of microbes. Emphasis is on pure culture technique and diversity of microbes in infection and disease. Prerequisite: 12 hours of biological science; a year of high school chemistry or its equivalent.
Bio-36_ Ecology and Natural History Study Tours (3)
A study tour focusing on the flora and fauna and ecological systems of a biologically unique area. Study tours have and will include trips to Belize, Yucatan Peninsula, Costa Rica, and various regions of the U.S., i.e., Alaska, Hawaii, Deserts of the Southwest, Pacific Northwest, etc. Study tours may take place during Spring Break or Summer School sessions. Permission from the instructor is required. Same as ESci-36_.
Bio-371 The Biology of the Brain (3)
A study of the structure and function of the brain, how the various parts of the brain interact, and implications of brain function.
Bio-377 Conservation Biology (3)
See ESci-377
Bio-385 Physiology of Exercise (3)
A course designed to give instruction in the physical processes of the body and how they relate to physical exercise. Applications will be made to areas of teaching and coaching and conditioning of the athletes. Prerequisite: upper level standing; Bio-243, 343, 344 or instructor’s approval. Same as HHP-385.
Bio-399 Research in Biology (1–3)
Students will perform biological research under supervision of biology faculty. Prerequisite: Bio-110, 111, or 112 and permission of instructor.
Bio-417 Aging and the Brain (3)
See Gero-417.
Bio-444 Nutrition (3)
A study of nutrients, their chemical structures, digestion, absorption and utilization in the body. The roles of nutrients, recommended allowances, their interactions and the results of deficiencies. Prerequisites: A course in college biology, upper level or graduate standing. May be used as an elective in general education component.
Bio-450 Gross Anatomy I (3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 3 - A comprehensive study in the anatomy of the human being. Emphasis will be placed on the relatedness of structure and function of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems of the body. This course is intended for students in the pre-health professions programs. Course fee. Prerequisites: Bio-343 or 344 and permission of the instructor.
Bio-451 Gross Anatomy II (2-3)
Lecture 2, Lab. 3 - A comprehensive study in the anatomy of the human being. Emphasis will be placed on the relatedness of structure and function of the organ system of the body. This course is intended for students in the pre-health professions programs. Course fee. Prerequisites: Bio-343 or 344 and permission of the instructor.
Bio-465 Human Diseases (3)
See HHP-465.
Bio-489 Immunology (3)
This course details the components and function of the immune system. The generation of white blood cell types from the bone marrow is analyzed. The function of each type of white blood cell in providing resistance to infectious agents including bacteria and viruses is reviewed. Of particular emphasis is the role of chemical agents (cytokines) in initiating and coordinating the immune response. Topics of particular relevance include the genetic inheritance of immunity, the biology of immunodeficiencies, auto-immune diseases, allergies and hypersensitive reactions, vaccines, transplantation, antibody technology, gene therapy, and cancer. Prerequisites: Bio 343 and Chem-345.
Bio 498 – Biology Internship (1-3)
Students gain experience in a biology and/or medical related field by working in an internship position under direct supervision of a biologist and/or medical personnel. Prerequisites: Bio-111, Bio-112, 12 hours of upper level biology courses, Chem-115, Chem-231, or Chem-345, minimum junior standing and permission of the biology faculty. In addition to consulting with Biology faculty, students should contact the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process.
(Note: This course may serve as an elective in the Bachelor of Science program in Biology. The term facility includes laboratories, research laboratories, clinical settings, field study sites, or other appropriate settings in which research takes place).
Bio-499 Honors Course
Arranged for qualified seniors.