NS 108 Computers and Society (2) A non-programming survey course in the uses and limits of
computers in business, education and industry.
NS 109 Mathematics of Human Affairs (2) Cultural aspects of mathematics. (Inductive and
deductive reasoning and other special topics.)
NS 112 Chemistry and Society (3) A study of the contributions chemistry makes to our
civilization from the standpoint of the individual and of society as a whole. Substances examined
include those found in the cosmos, living organisms and the material world. The roles of
substances and materials in the modern world are assessed with respect to benefit and risk.
NS 113 Concepts of Matter (4) The importance of matter in relation to the development of man
in society. Basic concepts and developments of atoms and molecules, including relevant
examples of ecology, industry and research. (3-2). (Not recommended for chemistry majors.)
NS 114 A Vision of Beauty in Order (4) A survey of the universe and the laws that govern it.
With a minimum of mathematics, this course will introduce the students to the scientific method,
physical principles, and applications of these principles that are interesting and relevant to
modern society. The course also may include historical, cultural, and environmental aspects of
physics. (3-2).
NS 115 Meteorology (4) An examination of the wonders and science of the atmosphere that
surrounds us. Topics include: description and causes of the local weather and climate, how
weather forecasts are made, thunderstorms, tornados, hurricanes, blizzards, and other violent
weather, climate change and the effect of weather on human activities.
NS 116 Physical Geology (4) A study of the structure and composition of the earth, the rocks
that form its crust, and the geological processes that have shaped and are shaping its surface such
as water, wind, and ice. Laboratory study of common rocks, minerals and fossils. Possible field
trips. (3-2).
NS 119 Astronomy (4) A descriptive study of the methods and principles of modern astronomy.
Topics include: planets, moon, asteroids, comets, meteors, sun, stars, nebulae, galaxies,
cosmology and subjects of current interest such as quasars, pulsars and black holes.
NS 120 Science of Life (4) This course serves as a broad introduction to the study of biology.
The course includes a study of plant and animal diversity, metabolism and evolution. A
laboratory is included. (3-2).
NS 121 Environmental Dynamics (4) A study of basic ecological principles regarding
interactions between living beings and the environment with an emphasis on applications to
humans and human society. A laboratory is included. (3-2).
NS 122 Human Heredity (4) This course is an introduction to human genetics, including
discussions of chromosomal abnormalities, genetic engineering, cancer and genetic screening. A
laboratory is included. (3-2).
NS 123 Plants and Civilization (3) The importance of plants in human society is the emphasis of
this course. Topics to be covered include: beginnings of agriculture; agricultural systems;
medicinal plants; ecological role of plants; and industrial uses of plants.
Back to SVSU Home Page