Presents mathematics topics designed to promote mathematical problem solving, reasoning, decision making and communication. Students will develop an understanding of the nature, purposes and accomplishments of mathematics. Topics selected from elementary set theory, logic, number theory, graph theory, voting theory, functions, difference equations and geometry.

Introduces topics necessary for the study of calculus. A detailed study of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, and their applications to modeling real world problems. Topics are considered from analytical, graphical and numerical points of view.

Examines limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of elementary functions, applications of the derivative and an introduction to the antiderivative. The first of a four-part sequence.

Examines descriptive statistics, probability, sampling theory and inferential statistics. Mathematics majors cannot use this course for credit towards their major.

Examines descriptive statistics, probability, sampling theory and inferential statistics. Mathematics majors cannot use this course for credit towards their major.

Examines descriptive statistics, probability, discrete and continuous random variables, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, regression and correlation. Includes normal distribution, t-distribution, chi square distribution. Required computer programming laboratory.

Emphasizes college-level writing, reading, research and revision practices necessary for 21st century academic and civic engagement. Teaches students to use a variety of genres, rhetorical techniques, and sources of evidence to reach academic and civic audiences.

Emphasizes college-level writing, reading, research and revision practices necessary for 21st century academic and civic engagement. Teaches students to use a variety of genres, rhetorical techniques, and sources of evidence to reach academic and civic audiences. The enhanced 4-credit version of ENGL 150 will provide students extra time and instructor guidance in critical reading, writing, revising and editing.

Examines fundamental topics in health and wellness. Students will learn how their behavior choices contribute to wellness, critically evaluate their own wellness practices, and develop strategies for healthy behaviors. Students will engage in wellness activities that incorporate exercise and mental health, and define wellness in the context of global and societal issues.

Engages students with current ideas for maximizing human health, with an emphasis on separating pseudoscience from evidence-based practices. Questions addressed include: Is there an "optimal" diet? How much physical activity do humans need, and of what type? How is our modern lifestyle impacting our psychological and physical health? Students will apply these concepts towards their own physical and mental well-being. Students will engage in wellness activities incorporating physical activity and mental health.

Facilitates an understanding of exercise based on the principles related to training basics, energy systems, muscular fitness and biomechanics. Students will learn to develop training programs for better physical performance and health.

Helps students develop a set of health behaviors that constitute what is generally considered to be a high energy lifestyle. These behaviors stress responsibility for one's health. Areas covered are physical fitness, nutrition and weight control, stress management, substance abuse, sexually transmitted disease and chronic disease.

Introduces the historical development of arts management through a survey of patronage, artist/manager, nonprofit and commercial management systems. Lectures and readings will concentrate on the major areas of interest for marketing and fiscal management of individual and collective artists.

Draws upon themes in visual anthropology and visual studies to study the nature of images. Examines how images are produced and circulated, how they acquire distinct meanings within different cultures, and how they relate to human experience, affects, culture, and violence.

Focuses on potential impacts of visual arts in both societal and personalized contexts through the introduction and understanding of basic drawing techniques, first-hand art experiences, research and writing. Students will be required to explore image-making, as well as writing, to express original ideas and to enhance critical thought, observation, and analysis of existing artwork, explaining and discussing the contexts in which an artwork was made and is viewed. Intended for non-art majors.

Introduces art, architecture, and sculpture from prehistory to the present. Focuses on the art of the West with additional discussion of non-Western cultures. Examines major works and artists within their historical, social, and political contexts while tracing principle art movements. Also explores materials and techniques of art making. Course may include field trips to local museums.

Introduces contemporary art. Presents major artists in cultural, historical, and political contexts. Topics may include the changing nature of the avant-garde, the roles of the critic and the economic market, new forms of art making, and the expanding conceptions of creative self-expression, particularly with regards to gender identity and race. Course may include field trips to MASS MoCA and other local sites of contemporary art.

Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to the creative arts. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Studies agrarian themes and their importance by surveying literature, music, paintings, and photography. Focuses on artistic perceptions of the earth and human relationships to it. Explores agrarian traditions, values and beliefs. Includes a study of agrarian social, political and economic issues.

Develops a critical understanding of the verbal and visual art of children's literature. Reflects major stories of world art and literature through two centuries of English language publications. Includes novels, short stories (including folk tales) and picture books. Readings will be placed in historical, cultural and literary contexts, with emphasis on techniques of writing and publishing, as well as pedagogical philosophies.

Explores the concept of "home" both locally and globally by analyzing how diverse writers and creators use language, image, and form to construct space, place and cultural identity. Drawing from this critical exploration, students will create texts of their own that employ the creative and analytical skills they've learned. Through the process of "writing home" and sharing their lived experiences with peers, students will begin to create a sense of "home" at MCLA.

Introduces students to the imaginative potentials of reading as a practice that transforms our understanding of the world. Students will learn the fundamental skills associated with the study of literature across multiple genres and from various cultural traditions, with attention paid to how the close reading of a text informs the creative act of interpretation.

Introduces students to the imaginative potentials of reading as a practice that transforms our understanding of the world. Students will learn the fundamental skills associated with the study of literature across multiple genres and from various cultural traditions, with attention paid to how the close reading of a text informs the creative act of interpretation.

Explores how our encounters with images profoundly impact our experiences of the world. Through an examination of diverse modes of visual expression, this course introduces students to key concepts of visual culture, including the social dynamics of representation, power structures of looking, and phenomena of spectacle.

Explores how our encounters with images profoundly impact our experiences of the world. Through an examination of diverse modes of visual expression, this course introduces students to key concepts of visual culture, including the social dynamics of representation, power structures of looking, and phenomena of spectacle.

Explores in theory and practice how writers critically and creatively illuminate questions of identity and power through the lens of personal experience. By engaging with personal essays written by a diversity of authors, students will discover voices they've never encountered, or that they never knew they had, opening up space for rhetorical engagement across difference. Students will leave the course with a critical understanding of who they are as writers and audience members.

Introduces students to a range of creative writing techniques and practices inspired by various literary movements and contemporary writers from a wide array of cultural backgrounds. Working across multiple genres (fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry) our goal is not to perfect stable pieces but to expand the possibilities for writing, by experimenting with formal conditions, styles and language games.

Focuses on film interpretation by emphasizing elements such as light, sound, composition, camera movement, acting, and direction. Initiates students into developments in film history, film genre and film theory.

Examines the question of how an author's choice of a single literary mode, genre, or type affects the meanings of a text. May focus on plays, short stories, song lyrics, comedy, romance, novels, myths, or other genres. The specific genre to be examined will vary and will be identified by subtitle.

Provides a general historical survey of music and introduces basic music vocabulary. The objective of the course is to help students become conversant in the styles and genres of music.

Compares world music and the study of music in the context of culture. Introduces students to the field of ethnomusicology and explores the folk and classical music of Asia, the Balkans, the Americans, and the wealth of ethnic culture in the North Adams area.

Adopts a philosophical approach to the experience, understanding and critical assessment of the products and processes of the creative arts. Our inquiries will center on two traditional questions of aesthetic theory: What is art? What is art's special value? This course will be more theoretical than hands-on, though direct, continued experience in the various creative arts will be encouraged and figure prominently in most discussions and assignments.

Adopts a philosophical approach to the experience, understanding and critical assessment of the products and processes of the creative arts. Our inquiries will center on two traditional questions of aesthetic theory. What is art? What is art's special value? This course will be more theoretical than hands-on, though direct, continued experience in the various creative arts will be encouraged and figure prominently in most discussions and assignments.

Introduces the basic concepts, theories, and methodologies of the practice and history of acting. Explores socio-cultural perspectives and key pioneering practitioners from across the globe. Includes hands on exploration of an actor's creative development, as well as an exploration of the different ways actors work. For anyone interested in the craft of acting.

Surveys historical development of world theatre emphasizing western dramatic tradition. Introduces a broad range of theatrical literature and theory within its historical context. Includes class discussions and writing assignments, as well as viewing of live theatre, panel discussions, and critical response sessions.

Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to humanity's shared heritage. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Examines selected biblical texts as pieces of literature. Includes traditional literary analysis of form, style, and structure, in addition to historical, political, and theoretical analysis of this multi-authored and chronologically divergent text.

Examines the historical, sociological, philosophical, literary and other aspects of the great American depression of the 1930s. Examines the cause and effect of change and persistence during a time of national crisis. Readings are first-hand accounts, documentaries, narratives and explanatory fiction.

Examines the United States, and the histories, cultures, and experiences of Americans of Latin American ancestry. Latinx studies is an interdisciplinary academic field that explores the politics, health, representation, and practices of people from Latin American and Caribbean heritage living in the United States. Latinx studies offers a lens through which we can better understand connections between diverse Latinx groups as well as the differences that may come between them.

Provides an introductory historical survey of the major events, ideas and people which have shaped world civilizations since 1500, the beginning of the modern era of history. Takes a comparative, interdisciplinary, and non-Eurocentric approach to historical analysis emphasizing diversity and global awareness.

Focuses on the development of American political, economic, social, philosophical, and cultural values and institutions from Colonial beginnings up to 1877. Sufficient emphasis will be placed on the Massachusetts and Federal Constitutions to meet the state requirement.

Focuses on the development of American political, economic, social, philosophical, and cultural values and institutions from 1877 to the present. Sufficient emphasis will be placed on the Massachusetts and Federal Constitutions to meet the state requirement.

Introduces theories, terms and past and contemporary topics in human geography, including how cultures are born and change, how groups of people organize themselves and their activities both spatially and politically, how patterns of activities emerge and change across time and space, and how we interact with our environments. Students in this course will explore demographic, economic, and social trends and issues across the globe in their geographic and historical context.

Introduces theories, terms and past and contemporary topics in human geography, including how cultures are born and change, how groups of people organize themselves and their activities both spatially and politically, how patterns of activities emerge and change across time and space, and how we interact with our environments. Students in this course will explore demographic, economic, and social trends and issues across the globe in their geographic and historical context.

Using a "lives and times" approach, this course will introduce to students some men and women whose lives reflect major social, cultural, political and economic developments in the modern history of East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam). These individuals were uniquely positioned to influence history when their society experienced profound transition and transformation through imperialism, industrialization, wars, and social conflicts.

Using a variety of case studies from European and world history, this course concentrates on increasing students' understanding of how conflict and scientific innovation have combined to change societies. Students will research and analyze a broad range of source materials to develop their ability to construct arguments and interpretations and express them logically and persuasively in speech and writing. Possible topics include atomic energy, medicine, transportation, and weaponry.

Explores selected periods in American history using elaborate, role playing historical games based in the American past. This course seeks to draw students into engaging the past, developing their understanding and analysis of historical sources, and improving skills in speaking, writing, and leadership. The games covered in the course will vary from semester to semester.

Explores the ways that we remember the past. Students will engage with artifacts, museums, public symbols like monuments, and events meaningful to their own histories. They will work with local organizations to learn new methods of preserving history and presenting it to public audiences. Using a variety of case studies, this collaborative course will confront debates about the politics of history and explore how diverse audiences interact with history and historical memory.

Explores the history of superheroes and how comic books have helped to reflect and shape American society and popular culture since the 1930s. This course draws on the vast collection of comic book superheroes from Marvel Comics as well as readings from scholarly articles, books, and other resources.

Explores the problematic notion of human nature employing the open-ended question-asking and interdisciplinary discussion which characterizes the Honors Program. The course ranges widely over philosophical, psychological, literary and anthropological texts, as well as works of art, which propose competing definitions for human nature. Students are asked first to understand and then to criticize each perspective in turn and finally to formulate their own understanding of human nature.

Opens up a perspective on culture diversity in local and global contexts. Takes an interdisciplinary approach to consider how historically shaped intersections of race, class, gender, and ethnicity inform the contemporary and past experiences of individuals and groups in society. Considers social justice and (in)equality by studying themes such as racism; classism; migration; globalization and labor rights; human trafficking; Islamophobia; and environmental justice.

Opens up a perspective on cultural diversity in local and global contexts. Takes an interdisciplinary approach to consider how historically shaped intersections of race, class, gender, and ethnicity inform the contemporary and post experiences of individuals and groups in society. Considers social justice and (in)equality by studying themes such as racism; classism; migration; globalization and labor rights; human trafficking; Islamophobia; and environmental justice.

Studies youth-lead social movements from around the world as we develop essential skills for college success. Discusses social movements and social justice as well as examples of social movements like Black Lives Matter; H.I.J.O.s, UndocuQueer, 1960's Civil Rights movements and organizing on college campuses more generally. Topics that are difficult to talk about, like race, class, gender, sexuality, racism, and systemic injustice will be discussed.

Applies interdisciplinary critical race and ethnic studies approaches to investigate how society is culturally and institutionally constituted by ideas like race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and nation.

Applies interdisciplinary critical race and ethnic studies approaches to investigate how society is culturally and institutionally constituted by ideas like race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and nation.

Engages students in the critical investigation and reflective analysis of such fundamental philosophical questions as freedom and moral responsibility, the nature of being and knowledge, the existence of God and the problem of evil, and individual rights and social justice. Emphasizes the relevance that philosophy has to contemporary problems and encourages students to think, read, write, and speak critically and thoughtfully.

Examines and applies the principles of cogent, sound or critical reasoning and writing, leading to a deeper understanding of language and of the use of logical argumentation. Considers, in the context of real life arguments and claims, (in the rhetoric of philosophy, history and other disciplines) formal and informal principles of clear and systematic thinking and writing.

Examines and applies principles of cogent, sound or critical reasoning and writing, leading to a deeper understanding of language and of the use of logical argumentation. Considers, in the context of real-life arguments and claims (in the rhetoric of philosophy, history, and other disciplines) formal and informal principles of clear and systematic thinking and writing.

Explores contemporary American families (the forms they take, the functions they serve, the problems they face) within the context of families of other historical time periods, and other cultures. Presents an interdisciplinary examination of topics such as: gender roles, marriage, divorce and blended families, nonmarital lifestyles, parenting, family policy and technology's impact on family life.

This course is a continuation of Italian 101. Speaking, listening, reading and writing skills are emphasized. Conducted in Italian.

Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to language and culture. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Examines Latin America's diverse culture, linguistic and ethnic/racial makeups resulting from political, economic, social, and cultural tensions. Students will look at instances of self-representation through a wide range of cultural products such as political manifests, literature, visual arts, ritual performance, and digital media. Examines how Latin American culture heterogeneity and its various expressions re-articulate the "idea" of Latin America.

Reviews first-semester Spanish and continues the comprehension and oral communication begun in Spanish 101. Intended for those who have already experienced a basic Spanish course. Conducted in Spanish.

Through the reading of varied texts of wide appeal and interest, students become acquainted with the literature and life experiences of Spanish-speaking peoples. Exploring such elements as the literary content, themes, figures of speech and tone of a text, students are assigned written work of a descriptive or interpretive nature based on such textual aspects of the works studied and discussed. Conducted in Spanish.

Designed for students seeking to work in the health professions. Students will learn the basic tools to communicate in Spanish in a medical setting. Through communicative practice, students will learn how to ask about pain, symptoms, medical histories, insurance, and patients' feelings. In addition, this course will help students to gain oral fluency and listening comprehension and also awareness about Spanish-speaking people's cultural perspectives around issues of health and illness.

Introduces students to the basic concepts, theories and methodologies of sociocultural anthropology. Creates an awareness of the wide spectrum of cultural variation throughout the world. Demonstrates that through the study of anthropology, we may not only gain an understanding of "exotic" cultures but also of our own sociocultural experience.

Introduces students to the basic concepts, theories, and methodologies of sociocultural anthropology. Creates an awareness of the wide spectrum of cultural variation throughout the world. Demonstrates that through the study of anthropology, we may not only gain an understanding of "exotic" cultures, but also of our own sociocultural experience.

Exposes students to the concepts and methods of sociocultural anthropology through the examination of several cultural groups around the world. Delves into several important topics within anthropology such as economic systems, indigenous peoples, migration, and health. Introduces and practices basic anthropological methods.

Introduces students to the basic functions and terminology of business. Topics include management of human and financial resources, production and marketing of goods and services, and legal and ethical issues in decision-making. Provides students with basic competencies in business communications, creativity, and illustrates both successful/unsuccessful decision-making.

Develops students' understanding and skills around transitioning to college, money management, budgeting, realizing financial goals, credit, and financial vehicles. Students will also use a variety of tools and resources to better manage their time, adjust to being the primary decision-maker in their life, create a budget, manage their profile, evaluate college assistance packages, and comparing financial alternatives.

Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to society at large. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Enables students to explore legislation and judicial decisions affecting school policies. Covers separation of church and state, controversial curricula and rights and responsibilities of students and teachers. Compares America with other cultures regarding equal access to education.

Studies the role of education as an institution in our society, the world and their lives. Through the use of a wide variety of sources, students will become aware of the people and the historical events that played a role in the development of educational practices and issues, and will be able to compare the myths to the realities of this major institution.

Introduces the concept of self-identity, examining it within the contexts of gender, sexuality, health, and ethnicity across media and society. Using interdisciplinary approaches, this cultural studies course focuses upon themes and theories that explore identity through analyzing meanings in media and social/cultural texts. It questions how these develop across history and questions identity in everyday common sense discourse and its relationships to media and society at local and global levels.

Explores the way words, symbols, and communication shape thought, behavior, society, and culture. Examines the origins of spoken and written language and the multiple ways that meanings are derived, ranging from the basic sounds we make to the sociolinguistic categories we create to define ourselves and others. Students learn how to frame arguments and persuade others, and how to use communication to better understand, analyze, and empathize with each other and with our world.

Provides an introduction to the principles and concepts of economics, with a focus on their applications in analyzing and solving social problems. Students will learn about microeconomics, macroeconomics, and key economic indicators. The course aims to equip students with the ability to apply economic principles to real-world issues.

Examines the organization of American economic systems, with comparisons to those of other countries. Emphasis is on the problems of unemployment, inflation, budget deficits and the possible fiscal and monetary policies used to correct them. The course studies such aggregate economic variables as consumption, investment, government expenditures, and taxes.

Investigates the space between characters' identities through close work with film and literature by way of course discussions, group activities, and a range of writing projects. We will focus on texts from the 20th and 21st centuries across cultures to consider why the genre remains in such wide circulation in today's society.

Introduces the fields of Public Health, Health Education and Health Promotion. Topics will include the history of public health, health status, health care philosophy, health and wellness, chronic and infectious diseases, health-related behavior, health theories and program models. Students will learn to use library databases and write a review of health-related literature. A service learning component will allow students to establish projects and relationships that will benefit the community.

Introduces the fields of Public Health, Health Education and Health Promotion. Topics will include the history of public health, health status, health care philosophy, health and wellness, chronic and infectious diseases, health-related behavior, health theories and program models. Students will learn to use library databases and write a review of health-related literature. A service learning component will allow students to establish projects and relationships that will benefit the community.

Introduces students to health promotion programs. Students will develop health education materials and teaching strategies for individuals and groups across the life span and in a variety of settings. Students will explore health behavior design theory, health education needs assessments, instructional strategies, learner characteristics, teaching materials and aids, learning environments, and evaluation methods.

Introduces students to health promotion programs. Students will develop health education materials and teaching strategies for individuals and groups across the life span and in a variety of settings. Students will explore health behavior design theory, health education needs assessments, instructional strategies, learner characteristics, teaching materials and aids, learning environments, and evaluation methods.

Explores the life cycle from conception to death. Biological, sociological and psychological perspectives will be examined and applied to everyday situations and social issues.

Explores the life cycle from conception to death. Biological, sociological, and psychological perspectives will be examined and applied to everyday situations and social issues.

Introduces students to the world of Interdisciplinary Studies. Draws on selected academic disciplines (such as sociology, history, political science, psychology, and cultural studies) to develop interdisciplinary frameworks applied to the study of complex issues in society that cannot be understood or solved through the lens of a single academic discipline. Course topic is identified by subtitle.

Traces cities back to their origins and ends with the present day where urbanization is happening faster than ever. Following a chronological order, we will examine how global forces and local communities are intimately connected. The course draws from various academic disciplines and introduces students to basic concepts such as density, zoning, gentrification, and urban renewal. The goal is to help students become informed thinkers critical or urban designs and suburban lifestyle.

Traces cities back to their origins and ends with the present day where urbanization is happening faster than ever. Following a chronological order, we will examine how global forces and local communities are intimately connected. The course draws from various academic disciplines and introduces students to basic concepts such as density, zoning, gentrification, and urban renewal. The goal is to help students become informed thinkers critical of urban designs and suburban lifestyle.

Introduces the major institutions of national and state government and the discipline of political science. Through interdisciplinary study, students will develop an understanding of political behavior and the public policy processes in the United States.

Provides a comparative introduction to common political problems and the discipline of political science. Through an interdisciplinary study of various nation-states, students will develop an understanding of political behavior, political institutions, and public policy processes.

Introduces students to the science of psychology, presenting the basic principles of mental processes and behavior and the process of empirical investigation.

Examines human social behavior emphasizing environmental and situational factors. Theoretical and applied issues are considered within selected topics. (Psychology majors cannot receive core Self & Society credit for PSYC 230).

Introduces the history, major concepts, and methods of sociology. Examines elements of social organization, sociological analysis of groups and relationships between major institutions of society. Emphasizes the idea of the sociological imagination and its application to contemporary issues.

Studies problems and disorganization in modern industrial society such as: poverty, racism, sexism, environmental pollution, militarism and family issues.

Studies problems and disorganization in modern industrial society such as: poverty, racism, sexism, environmental pollution, militarism, and family issues.

Provides an introduction to the discipline of social work, covering its history, ethics, and current fields of practice. Social work's ethical commitment to issues of privilege and oppression, diversity, and social justice play a central role in all course material. Emphasis is placed on the social systems and institutions through which social workers interact with individuals and communities as well as on how students' own identities and life experiences may impact such interactions.

Explores the historical, social, political, economic, and cultural forces that inform sex, gender, and sexuality within the context of feminist movements. Students learn and engage with concepts and theoretical perspectives found in the field of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Understand the multiple matrices of power that shape the world and our lived experiences.

Introduces the non-major to the importance of diet for present and future good health. Examines the importance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals, and their interactions. Explores topics such as label-reading, popular diets, dietary analysis, and other issues of current interest in the field of nutrition. Students may take either BIOL 102 (4 credit lab course) or BIOL 103 (3 credit non-lab course) but not both.

Explores sex as a biological phenomenon, from understanding its role in propagation and evolution. Topics will include reproductive structures, mechanisms of sex, and the development of sexual traits, and behaviors. We discuss sex across the diversity of living organisms; from bacteria to fungi, plants, and animals; and touch on a variety of sexual paradigms.

Provides the non-major with the knowledge about the structure and function of the human body. Students will develop ability to critically evaluate a large number of issues in this field, as presented in scientific publications and the news media. Students will gain a foundation essential for making knowledgeable decisions regarding quality of life. Students will be encouraged to share experiences based on their own culture and gender.

Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in physical science. Scientific reasoning, discovery, and invention provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Introduces students to the use of the scientific method in various scientific settings. Using the case study method, students will cover a diverse range of topics which may include such topics as: the effects of radiation on biological systems, cancer and waste water treatment.

Examines superheroes through the lens of modern physics. The student will use basic physics principles such as mechanics, energy, and quantum mechanics to model and explain the powers and events in literature, which consists of comic books, sci-fi novels, and fantasy novels. This course will develop problem solving skills that are useful in a variety of real world applications. This course assumes no previous knowledge of physics and will be useful for science and non-science majors alike.

Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in the life sciences. Scientific reasoning and discovery provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Surveys the nature of New England and focuses on the natural history and identification of representative vertebrate animals of the region. The first part of the course will introduce the physical setting of New England. Subsequently, it will cover various communities and ecosystems of the region, identify the distinguishing vegetation for selected ecosystems, describe the natural history of those ecosystems, and emphasize the identity, biology, and ecology of representative vertebrate animals.

Looks at historical and modern aspects of astronomy. Topics covered will include: the Earth-Moon system, our solar system, galaxies, the observable universe, as well as current research in astronomy, including quasars, pulsars, black holes, other planetary systems and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Provides the non-major knowledge of basic biological concepts. Concepts in Biology deals with the development of concepts in the biological science of life. Among the areas to be studied are evolution, genetics, and developmental biology: all deal with the fundamental characteristic of life: its ability to replicate over time.

Introduces the non-major to the importance of diet for present and future good health. Examines the importance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals, and their interactions. Explores topics such as label-reading, popular diets, dietary analysis, and other issues of current interest in the field of nutrition. Students may take either BIOL 102 (4 credit lab course) or BIOL 103 (3 credit non-lab course) but not both.

Introduces the student to cell biology, mitosis, meiosis, genetics, photosynthesis, respiration and cellular organisms. This course is designed for, but not limited to, students pursuing a major/minor in science.

Examines the principals and theories of forensic science and how they are used in the United States' judicial system. The course will explore how evidence is collected, stored and analyzed. The student will gain a basic understanding of the scientific and analytical theories of how evidence is evaluated and evidence is used in the courtroom. Explores how forensics was used in solving major cases and how forensics has impacted landmark Supreme Court rulings.

Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in physical science. Scientific reasoning, discovery, and invention provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Designed for non-STEM majors, this course will examine fundamental concepts in life science. Scientific reasoning, discovery, and invention provide a context for understanding reality-based applications of science. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Looks at the impact of current energy usage on our environment from technical, social and political viewpoints. Investigates the present and projected usage of nonrenewable fuel sources and how modifications due to alternate energy techniques will affect current energy policy. Discusses possible large-scale alternate energy methods. Investigates the scientific aspects of such topics as global warming and ozone depletion.

Studies chemical principles, theories, laws and their applications. Topics include electronic and nuclear behavior, periodicity, stoichiometry, structure and bonding. Teaches laboratory techniques through the performance of experiments related to the above topics.

Studies chemical principles, theories, laws and their applications. Topics include oxidation and reduction, kinetics, thermodynamics, equilibrium and descriptive inorganic chemistry. Teaches laboratory techniques through the performance of experiments related to the above topics.

Provides a foundation in the physical, chemical and biological principles of environmental science in order to explore Earth's terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric systems. Directly investigates freshwater and forest environments of the northeast in the context of the scientific method.

Provides an interdisciplinary foundation in the physical, chemical and biological principles of environmental science in order to explore earth's terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric systems. Historical case studies illustrate political and ethical dimensions of environmental issues. Lab exercises familiarize you with the forest and freshwater environments of the northeast and how the scientific method is used to analyze and understand the relation between humans and the natural environment.

Surveys the nature of New England and focuses on the natural history and identification of representative vertebrate animals of the region. It will introduce the physical setting of New England, investigate various communities and ecosystems of the region, and discuss nature in winter and how animals cope with the extremes of winter. The class format includes lecture, student presentations, and class discussions of assigned readings. Required lab component that includes field based activities.

Studies the earth, including the origin and types of earth materials, volcanism and crystal deformation, external earth processes and development of landscapes, geological resources, and geological processes as natural hazards.

Introduces students to basic scientific methodology, current problems and fundamental principles of engineering design. Intended for nonscience majors and potential engineering students. Required laboratory introduces fundamental science and engineering principles through collaborative projects such as robotics.

This is the first of a two-semester sequence, designed primarily for students in the biological and health sciences and others who desire a rigorous but non-calculus-based course that presents a complete introduction to physics. Covers vectors, one and two dimensional motion, Newton's laws, and rotational motion, conservation of energy and momentum, gravitation, wave motion, sound, heat and thermodynamics.

This is the second of a two-semester sequence, designed primarily for students in the biological and health sciences and others who desire a rigorous but non-calculus-based course that presents a complete introduction to physics. Covers geometrical optics, electricity and magnetism, electronics, modern physics, relativity.

First course in a three-course introductory physics sequence which utilizes a calculus-based approach to study the natural world. This course focuses on kinematics, dynamics, conservation of energy and momentum, and rotational motion.

Challenges students to integrate knowledge from several disciplines, applying academic learning and critical thinking skills to modern-day issues. Encourages students to work with others and become engaged citizens in the context of today's world.

Focuses on the development of a rural creative economy through an exploration of the history, economic development theory, city planning, government granting, and creative placemaking and the direct application of those efforts in North Adams, MA. Using the design thinking model, students will investigate the economic, political and cultural history of North Adams to generate a historical narrative of the progression from manufacturing center, to rustbelt community to an artist-belt center of activity. Students will conduct extensive research in the community exploring the history and current state of North Adams’ creative placemaking efforts and use their new understanding to develop, prototype and test ideas generated to further the community’s creative economic development.

In our globalized world, the ability to successfully communicate information is an invaluable skill in the business, medical, education, and other fields. This course is designed to help you study, develop, refine, and practice interpersonal and intercultural communication skills across differences between - and among - cultures.

Employs economic and social reasoning to investigate the causes of discrimination and poverty in the United States and to a lesser extent elsewhere in the world. Attempts to answer questions such as How is poverty defined? What are the dimensions of poverty? Why are some people poor and not others? Course material on discrimination focuses on the root causes of discrimination and evaluates the amount and extent of discrimination in the labor and housing markets.

Investigates the environmental history of North America with a focus on how landscapes, in both literal and figurative aspects, have changed. Uses topics (e.g. ice age, colonization, automobiles, mining, suburbanization, consumerism) or regions (e.g., Boston, Cape Cod, Florida), to investigate how humans have impacted and been impacted by the environment. Seminar-style class with discussion and student presentations.

Considers various ways that nature has been represented over time, from prehistoric cave paintings to modern Hollywood films; analyzes and compares environmental representations to each other; examines the current scientific knowledge and environmental context related to particular representations of nature.

Explores how creators use language and image to write about their own lives and the lives of others. Students will engage with texts spanning multiple disciplines, from creative nonfiction to archival, ethnographic and oral history projects. From this knowledge and their Core experience, students will craft a life writing project for an audience of their choice. By composing and reflecting on this project, they will better understand how to make knowledge live in their lives.