AST 1002   Descriptive Astronomy

College of Sci and Engineering, Department of Physics

3 sh (may not be repeated for credit)

This course provides a comprehensive look at modern astronomy, emphasizing the use of the scientific method and the application of physical laws to understand the Universe including Earth and its environment. Throughout this course, students will develop the ability to discern scientific knowledge from non-scientific claims by using critical thinking. Student Learning Outcomes: • Students will define terms used to measure and describe the universe. • Students will explain the processes involved in the formation and evolution of celestial bodies over astronomical time according to different models and theories. • Students will describe how scientific theories evolve in response to new observations and critically evaluate their impact on society. • Students will formulate empirically testable hypotheses derived from the study of physical processes and phenomena. • Students will apply logical reasoning skills through scientific criticism and argument to separate science from non-science. • Students will gather and analyze astronomical data and communicate results in graphic and written forms. Credit may not be received in both AST 1002 and AST 3033. Equipment Fee will be assessed. Meets General Education requirement in Natural Sciences.

AST 2037   Life in the Universe

College of Sci and Engineering, Department of Physics

3 sh (may not be repeated for credit)

This astronomy-based course contemplates the possibilities of life elsewhere in our solar system and the universe through a multidisciplinary science approach. Conditions for life to form and the likelihood that such conditions may exist elsewhere in the universe are discussed. Also considered are schemes proposed for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). Meets General Education requirement in Natural Sciences.

AST 3222   Introduction to Astrophysics

College of Sci and Engineering, Department of Physics

3 sh (may not be repeated for credit)
Prerequisite: MAC 2311 AND PHY 2048
Co-requisite: PHY 2049

Comprehensive survey of the universe and its appearance from earth. Seasons, tides, eclipses. The solar system, stellar evolution and galaxies. Quasars, pulsars, black holes.

AST 3905   Directed Study

College of Sci and Engineering, Department of Physics

1-12 sh (may be repeated indefinitely for credit)