University of Great Falls Logo a Catholic university preparing students for living and making a living

1-800-856-9544

About UGF Learning & Teaching Prospective Students Students Library Parents Alumni & Giving Athletics

Science

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat.

 
Students talking on the lawn

Science at the University of Great Falls

 

 

 

 

 

Biology Major

Competency Objectives

Students who earn a major in Biology will

  • Describe connections between science and other disciplines and express the relevance of science to daily life and health. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Work effectively in groups, collaborate in team investigations, provide constructive feedback to peers, and utilize constructive feedback from peers. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Interpret scientific information accurately and draw logical conclusions. Interpret laboratory data accurately and draw logical, relevant conclusions. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Practice analytical laboratory skills. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and distinguish between credible and non-credible scientific information. Analyze the experiments of other scientists for logic, relevance and significance. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Integrate fundamental scientific knowledge in the solution of scientific problems. Design experiments to answer scientific questions or problems using the principles of the scientific method. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Communicate scientific information with clarity, precision and accuracy, both orally and in writing. Utilize self-assessment techniques and feedback from peers and instructors to improve the quality of oral and written communication. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Evaluate actual and hypothetical ethical issues related to science/technology and argue convincingly and fairly on more than one side of an ethical issue, drawing upon scientific knowledge and awareness of personal values. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Anticipate the impact of current technologies on human culture and the environment and consider the questions and problems society will face as technology advances. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

Course-name and number
CR
BIO 151 - General Biology I
4
BIO 152 - General Biology II
4
BIO 211 - General Zoology
4
BIO 212 - General Botany
4
BIO 280 - Microbiology
4
BIO 311 - Genetics
4
BIO 499 - Senior Thesis
1
CHM 111 - General Chemistry I
4
CHM 112 - General Chemistry II
4
CHM 261 - Organic Chemistry I
4
CHM 262 - Organic Chemistry II
4
CHM 401 - Biochemistry I
4
MTH 119 - Mathematics for Sciences
or
3-5
MTH 241 - Calculus I
MTH 205 - Elementary Probability and Statistics
3
Approved electives
12
Total credits for major
59-61

 

Download Your Biology Degree Planning Sheet

Biology Minor

The biology major serves as a basis for secondary-level teaching, for graduate work in any field of biology, and for admission to the study of medicine, dentistry, or a number of paramedical programs. University of Great Falls students have been highly successful in acquiring acceptance into professional programs. The strategy of the biology department, therefore, is to provide a curriculum that will stimulate intellectual curiosity, develop a general knowledge base, and increase the student's skills in the biological sciences.

With these objectives, the biology curriculum is broad enough to prepare the student for a wide spectrum of options upon graduation, yet allow for the development of special interests in specific areas using electives and concentrations.

The biology program at the University of Great Falls provides each student with a comprehensive understanding of the basic knowledge, techniques, and concepts of biological sciences. Instruction combines lab experiences with lectures, seminars, and occasional field experiences. The emphasis in the curriculum is on a traditional approach to the study of biology through a range of general and advanced courses

Students in biology will find faculty available not only in class but also out of class. Because class sizes are small, University of Great Falls students have the advantage of receiving this important assistance from advisors and professors. The emphasis of the biology program is to help each student achieve his or her goals.

Competency Objectives

Students who earn a minor in Biology will

  • Describe connections between science and other disciplines and express the relevance of science to daily life and health. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Work effectively in groups, collaborate in team investigations, provide constructive feedback to peers, and utilize constructive feedback from peers. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Interpret scientific information accurately and draw logical conclusions. Interpret laboratory data accurately and draw logical, relevant conclusions. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Practice analytical laboratory skills. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and distinguish between credible and non-credible scientific information. Analyze the experiments of other scientists for logic, relevance and significance. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Integrate fundamental scientific knowledge in the solution of scientific problems. Design experiments to answer scientific questions or problems using the principles of the scientific method. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Communicate scientific information with clarity, precision and accuracy, both orally and in writing. Utilize self-assessment techniques and feedback from peers and instructors to improve the quality of oral and written communication. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Evaluate actual and hypothetical ethical issues related to science/technology and argue convincingly and fairly on more than one side of an ethical issue, drawing upon scientific knowledge and awareness of personal values. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Anticipate the impact of current technologies on human culture and the environment and consider the questions and problems society will face as technology advances. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

Course-name and number
CR
BIO 151 - General Biology I
4
BIO 152 - General Biology II
4
BIO 211 - General Zoology
4
BIO 212 - General Botany
4
BIO 311 - Genetics
4
CHM 111 - General Chemistry I
4
CHM 112 - General Chemistry II
4
CHM 261 - Organic Chemistry I
4
CHM 262 - Organic Chemistry II
4
MTH 119 - Mathematics for Sciences
or
3-5
MTH 241 - Calculus I
MTH 205 - Elementary Probability & Stats
3
Approved electives
4
Total credits for minor
46-48

 

Download Your Biology Minor Planning Sheet

Chemistry at the University of Great Falls

Chemistry has long been called the "Central Science." That is, although chemistry is a special body of theory and practice worth studying for its own sake, the study of chemistry provides depth and breadth to biology, physics, and other sciences.

The University of Great Falls offers a standard array of courses, designed to provide a solid background in chemistry, including general chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. The small size of classes ensures that students will have ample access to laboratory equipment, and personalized attention.

Chemistry Major

TopTOP
Competency Objectives

Students who earn a major in Chemistry will

  • Describe connections between science and other disciplines and express the relevance of science to daily life and health. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Work effectively in groups, collaborate in team investigations, provide constructive feedback to peers and utilize constructive feedback from peers. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Distinguish between credible and non-credible sources of scientific information, interpreting information from credible sources accurately and draw logical conclusions. Interpret laboratory data accurately and draw logical conclusions. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Analyze scientific problems and questions and design experiments to answer them, using the principles of the scientific method. Practice analytical laboratory skills. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Integrate fundamental scientific knowledge in the solution of scientific problems. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Communicate scientific information with clarity, accuracy and conciseness, both orally and in writing. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and consider the impact on the lay public of inaccurate or biased communication of scientific information. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Evaluate actual and hypothetical ethical issues related to science/technology and argue convincingly on more than one side of a given issue, drawing upon scientific knowledge and personal belief systems. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Assess the impact of current and future technologies on human society and culture and anticipate the magnitude of the social challenges ahead by proposing hypothetical public policy related to science/technology and debating such hypothetical public policy with peers. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

Course-name and number
CR
CHM 111 - General Chemistry I
4
CHM 112 - General Chemistry II
4
CHM 250 - Quantitative Analysis 4
CHM 261 - Organic Chemistry I
4
CHM 262 - Organic Chemistry II
4
CHM 340 - Physical Chemistry
3
CHM 401 - Biochemistry I
4
CHM 402 - Biochemistry II
4
CHM 499 - Senior Thesis
1
MTH 205 - Elementary Probability and Statistics
3
MTH 241 - Calculus I
5
MTH 242 - Calculus II
5
Total credits for major
53

 

Download Your Chemistry Major Degree Planning Sheet

Chemistry Minor

TopTOP
Competency Objectives

Students who earn a minor in Chemistry will

  • Describe connections between science and other disciplines, and express the relevance of science to daily life and health. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Work effectively in groups, collaborate in team investigations, provide constructive feedback to peers and utilize constructive feedback from peers. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Distinguish between credible and non-credible sources of scientific information, interpreting information from credible sources accurately and draw logical conclusions. Interpret laboratory data accurately and draw logical conclusions. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Analyze scientific problems and questions and design experiments to answer them, using the principles of the scientific method. Practice analytical laboratory skills. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Integrate fundamental scientific knowledge in the solution of scientific problems. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Communicate scientific information with clarity, accuracy and conciseness, both orally and in writing. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and consider the impact on the lay public of inaccurate or biased communication of scientific information. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Evaluate actual and hypothetical ethical issues related to science/technology and argue convincingly on more than one side of a given issue, drawing upon scientific knowledge and personal belief systems. (Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

  • Assess the impact of current and future technologies on human society and culture and anticipate the magnitude of the social challenges ahead by proposing hypothetical public policy related to science/technology and debating such hypothetical public policy with peers.(Level 4 majors, Level 3 minors.)

Course-name and number
CR
CHM 111 - General Chemistry I
4
CHM 112 - General Chemistry II
4
CHM 261 - Organic Chemistry I
4
CHM 262 - Organic Chemistry II
4
CHM 340 - Physical Chemistry
3
CHM 401 - Biochemistry I
4
MTH 205 - Elementary Probability and Statistics
3
MTH 241 - Calculus I
5
PHS 241 - Classical and Modern Physics I
4
PHS 242 - Classical and Modern Physics II
4
Total credits for minor
39

 

Download Your Chemistry Minor Degree Planning Sheet

 

Forensic Science Major

Forensic science is a field of study that applies science to matters defined by both criminal and civil law. This concentration helps prepare criminal justice professionals with a background in scientific discipline directed to the recognition, identification, individualization, and evaluation of physical evidence by the application of the natural sciences to law-science matters. The course sequence provides courses that are congruent with the underlying criminal justice or science major. This concentration provides an overview of the specializations of pathology, toxicology, and criminalistics. Students desiring to work in crime laboratories are urged to enter graduate programming in the sciences. This concentration will assist law enforcement personnel in both rural and urban settings in the process of crime solving.

Competency Objectives

Students who earn a major in Forensic Sciences will

  • Describe connections between forensic sciences and other disciplines and express the relevance of science to daily life and health. (Level 4 majors)

  • Work effectively in groups, collaborate in team investigations as well as provide constructive feedback to peers, utilize constructive feedback from peers and develop self-assessment skills. (Level 4 majors)

  • Interpret scientific information accurately and draw logical conclusions. Interpret laboratory data accurately and draw logical conclusions. (Level 4 majors)

  • Practice analytical laboratory skills. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and distinguish between credible and non-credible scientific information. Analyze the experiments of other scientists. (Level 4 majors)

  • Integrate fundamental scientific knowledge in the solution of scientific problems, making use of crime scene investigation techniques, evidence collection and preservation methods and proper techniques of data gathering and analysis. (Level 4 majors)

  • Communicate scientific information with clarity, accuracy and conciseness, both orally and in writing. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and consider the impact on the lay public of inaccurate or biased communication of scientific information. (Level 4 majors)

  • Evaluate actual and hypothetical ethical issues related to science/technology and argue convincingly on more than one side of a given issue, drawing upon scientific knowledge and personal belief systems. (Level 4 majors)

  • Assess the impact of current technologies on human society and the environment and consider the questions and problems society will face as technology advances. (Level 4 majors)

Course-name and number
CR
BIO 151 - General Biology I
4
BIO 152 - General Biology II
4
CHM 111 - General Chemistry I
4
CHM 112 - General Chemistry II
4
CRJ 100 - Introduction to Criminal Justice System
3
CRJ 451 - Criminal Investigation
3
FSC 201 - Introduction to Forensic Sciences
3
FSC 300 - Physical Evidence for Forensic Sciences
3
FSC 301 - Advanced Forensic Sciences I
3
FSC 302 - Advanced Forensic Sciences II
3
FSC 430 - Forensic Anthropology
3
MTH 205 - Elementary Probability and Statistics
3
PLG 231 - Criminal Law
3
PLG 251 - Criminal Evidence and Procedure
3
MTH 119 - Math for the Sciences
or
3-5
MTH 241 - Calculus I
One of the following courses:
4
BIO 211 - Zoology
BIO 251 - Human Anatomy & Physiology I
BIO 252 - Human Anatomy & Physiology II
or
CHM 261 - Organic Chemistry I
4
CHM 262 - Organic Chemistry II
4
Total credits for major
57-61

 

Download Your Forensic Science Degree Planning Sheet

Forensic Science Minor

Forensic science is a field of study that applies science to matters defined by both criminal and civil law. This concentration helps prepare criminal justice professionals with a background in scientific discipline directed to the recognition, identification, individualization, and evaluation of physical evidence by the application of the natural sciences to law-science matters. The course sequence provides courses that are congruent with the underlying criminal justice or science major. This concentration provides an overview of the specializations of pathology, toxicology, and criminalistics. Students desiring to work in crime laboratories are urged to enter graduate programming in the sciences. This concentration will assist law enforcement personnel in both rural and urban settings in the process of crime solving.

Competency Objectives

Students who earn a minor in Forensic Sciences will

  • Describe connections between forensic sciences and other disciplines and express the relevance of science to daily life and health. (Level 3 minors)

  • Work effectively in groups, collaborate in team investigations as well as provide constructive feedback to peers, utilize constructive feedback from peers and develop self-assessment skills. (Level 3 minors)

  • Interpret scientific information accurately and draw logical conclusions. Interpret laboratory data accurately and draw logical conclusions. (Level 2 minors)

  • Practice analytical laboratory skills. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and distinguish between credible and non-credible scientific information. Analyze the experiments of other scientists. (Level 2 minors)

  • Integrate fundamental scientific knowledge in the solution of scientific problems, making use of crime scene investigation techniques, evidence collection and preservation methods and proper techniques of data gathering and analysis. (Level 2 minors)

  • Communicate scientific information with clarity, accuracy and conciseness, both orally and in writing. Critique scientific literature thoroughly and consider the impact on the lay public of inaccurate or biased communication of scientific information. (Level 3 minors)

  • Evaluate actual and hypothetical ethical issues related to science/technology and argue convincingly on more than one side of a given issue, drawing upon scientific knowledge and personal belief systems. (Level 3 minors)

  • Assess the impact of current technologies on human society and the environment and consider the questions and problems society will face as technology advances. (Level 3 minors)

Course-name and number
CR
FSC 201 - Introduction to Forensic Sciences
3
FSC 300 - Physical Evidence for Forensic Sciences
3
FSC 301 - Advanced Forensic Sciences I
3
FSC 302 - Advanced Forensic Sciences II
3
CRJ 100 - Introduction to Criminal Justice System
3
PLG 251 - Criminal Evidence and Procedure
3
Approved elective in Forensic Sciences
3
Total credits for minor
21

 

Download Your Forensic Science Minor Planning Sheet

 

Course Descriptions

Biology Courses

BIO 102 Fundamentals of Life Science. An introductory science course for non-science majors covering the theory of evolution, the scientific method, animal and plant stasis, form and function, and inheritance. Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2005 4 credits

BIO 103 Structure and Function of the Human Body. An introductory course for non-science majors emphasizing human biology. Areas of study include the chemical and cellular basis for life and the major organ systems of the body (the skin, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, reproductive, urinary, immune, nervous, and endocrine systems.) Expected to be offered: Spring semester 2006 4 credits

BIO 111 Introduction to Environmental Science. Introduction to the nature and properties of the biotic community and environmental factors controlling them. Principles of energy flow, population dynamics, environmental quality and management will be considered. Expected to be offered: Summer semesters, sufficient demand 3 credits

BIO 112 Field Ecology. Relationships of plants and animals to their environment in the field, with emphasis upon habitat adaptation, the ecosystem, community structure, and ecological succession in the western part of North America. Prerequisite: BIO 111 Expected to be offered: Summer semesters, sufficient demand 4 credits

BIO 151 General Biology I. Foundational course designed to prepare students for upper division courses in any of the life sciences. This course emphasizes the fundamental life processes at the cellular level, including DNA replication and cell division, chromosomal inheritance, and metabolism in both plant and animal cells. Plant form and function are emphasized with accompanying laboratory experiences. Prerequisite: CHM 111 Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 4 credits

BIO 152 General Biology II. A continuation of BIO 151, this course emphasizes the study of populations, ecosystems, the theory and mechanisms of evolution, as well as animal form and function. Accompanying laboratory session includes dissection experience. Prerequisite: BIO 151 Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 4 credits

BIO 211 General Zoology. Principles of zoology; comparative study of structure and function in animals. Topics discussed: reproduction, development, heredity, ecology, and a survey of the animal kingdom. Prerequisite: BIO 151 Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2005 4 credits

BIO 212 General Botany. General principles of botany: structure and function in plants; reproduction; heredity; ecology; economic botany; and a survey of the plant kingdom. Laboratory experiments and microscopic studies coordinated with lecture. Prerequisite: BIO 152 Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 4 credits

BIO 251 Human Anatomy and Physiology I. A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body and its relationship to human function. The examination of integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems include the use of a human cadaver in the laboratory setting. Prerequisite: CHM 111, BIO 151 recommended Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2006 4 credits

BIO 252 Human Anatomy and Physiology II. A continuation of BIO 251, this course is a study of anatomy and physiology. Systems covered include cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. A human cadaver and the BioPacT physiology software are utilized in a laboratory setting. Prerequisite: BIO 251 Expected to be offered: Spring semester 2007 4 credits

BIO 271 Basic and Clinical Nutrition. Study of the basic concepts of human nutrition as they relate to the health and well being of the individual. Included are studies of the nutritional needs of the body, digestion and metabolic processes, dietary trends, recommended daily allowances, vitamin supplementation, nutritional diseases, and nutrition of the elderly. Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2006 3 credits

BIO 280 Microbiology. Study of microscopic organisms existing as single cells or cell clusters. Discussion of the form, metabolism, reproduction, physiology, and methods of classification of microscopic organisms, their relationships to each other, and their effects on humans. Prerequisite: BIO 151 Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 4 credits

BIO 311 Genetics This upper-division required course for biology majors covers the fundamentals of classical and molecular genetics, including gene structure, function, and transmission in prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses. Methods of genetic manipulation and statistical analysis will be considered in a problem-solving context. Prerequisite: BIO 152, BIO 280, MTH 205 Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 4 credits

BIO 392 Special Topics in Biology. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 3 credits

BIO 400 Immunology. This upper-division elective course for biology majors discusses the science of "self/non-self" discrimination. Examination of physiological functions of immune response, including cell and antibody mediated immunity, allergic and hypersensitive reactions, surveillance mechanisms, and inborn and acquired immune responses. Clinical and laboratory applications of immunologic function (transplantation, modulation), immune deficiencies, and disease states. Prerequisite: BIO 280, BIO 311 Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2007 4 credits

BIO 405 Developmental Biology. This upper-division elective for biology majors discusses the genetic mechanisms underlying the formation of organisms from a single cell. Molecular and cellular influences on the differentiation and development of cells, tissues and organs, will be used as a basis for the morphological changes that are found in the developing organism as a whole. In addition to classical descriptive embryology, frequent references will be made to experimental approaches used by research scientists. Lectures will build on your knowledge of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, evolution and embryology integrated with the new emerging molecular techniques that have shaped developmental biology in recent years. Prerequisite: BIO 311, CHM 401 Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2006 4 credits

BIO 411 Cell Biology. This upper-division elective for biology majors offers an in-depth look at cellular structure and function. Students examine the role of organelles, biological membranes, the cytoskeleton, and extra-cellular matrix in the processes of organelle biosynthesis, vesicle transport, protein targeting, molecular motors, and secretion. Additional topics will include receptor structure and function, signal transduction, differentiation, cell cycle and programmed cell death. Prerequisite: BIO 311, CHM 401 Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 4 credits

BIO 420 Virology. This upper-division elective course for biology majors explores current concepts associated with the field of virology. The structure and genetic composition of viruses as well as strategies for the replication and expression of viral genetic material will be examined. Mechanisms of viral pathogenesis will be presented. In addition, current methods in viral diagnostics, prevention of viral infection and treatment of infected individuals will be presented within the context of viruses of historical significance as well as newly emergent viruses of current medical concern. Novel infectious agents such as satellites, viroids and prions will also be discussed. Prerequisite: BIO 280, BIO 311 Expected to be offered: Fall 2005 4 credits

BIO 424 Ecology. Properties of biotic communities and environmental factors controlling them with emphasis upon habitat adaptation, community structure, and ecological succession. Prerequisite: BIO 152, BIO 212 Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2006 3 credits

BIO 490 Research in Biology. Research experience for students in Biology. This student initiated undergraduate research project aims to develop abilities for asking sound research questions, designing reasonable scientific approaches to answer such questions, and performing experiments to test both the design and the question. We consider how to assess difficulties and limitations in experimental strategies due to design, equipment, organism selected, etc. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 1-3 credits

BIO 492 Special Topics in Biology Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: sufficient demand 3-4 credits

BIO 495 Internship. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 1-3 credits

BIO 499 Senior Thesis. This upper-division requirement of majors consists of o ral and written presentations by students majoring in biology and is based on critical evaluation of scientific literature and/or an independent research project. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 1 credit

Chemistry Courses

CHM 101 Essentials of Inorganic Chemistry. An overview of inorganic chemistry. Topics include scientific methods, tools of science, historical aspects, atomic structure, chemical bonding, gases, liquids, solids, solutions, colloids, and chemical reactions. May be used in preparation for CHM 111 Expected to be offered: Summer semesters 4 credits

CHM 102 Essentials of Organic and Biochemistry. A survey of organic and biochemical molecules--especially designed for health occupations students--with an emphasis on the names, structures, and functions of key molecular types. Prerequisite: CHM 101 Expected to be offered: Spring semester 2006 3 credits

CHM 111 General Chemistry I. Course covers topics integral to Inorganic Chemistry, including atoms and bonding, theories of bonding, molecular geometries, naming of inorganic compounds, simple chemical reactions, properties of liquids, solids, and gases. Prerequisite: MTH 105 or acceptable test score Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 4 credits

CHM 112 General Chemistry II. A continuation of CHM 111. Topics include rates of chemical reactions, the second law of thermodynamics, and an extensive discussion of chemical equilibrium encompassing gas phase reactions, reactions in solutions, acid-base chemistry, solubility, and electrochemistry. Prerequisite: CHM 111 Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 4 credits

CHM 261 Organic Chemistry I. A detailed view of structure of organic compounds and their reactions with an emphasis on the mechanisms for their preparation and conversion. Organic Chemistry I and II follow a mechanistic approach. The functional groups are introduced in terms of how and why they react. Prerequisite: CHM 112 Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 4 credits

CHM 262 Organic Chemistry II. A detailed view of the structure and reactions of aliphatic and aromatic organic compounds is continued with an emphasis on mechanisms and synthesis. Organic Chemistry I and II follow a mechanistic approach. The functional groups are introduced in terms of how and why they react. Prerequisite: CHM 261 Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 4 credits

CHM 340 Physical Chemistry. A survey of thermodynamics and quantum chemistry and their applications to molecular studies. Topics include gas laws, energies, chemical equilibrium, quantum effects, and electrochemistry. Prerequisite: CHM 112 Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2006 3 credits

CHM 350 Quantitative Analysis. An introductory view of a variety of methods of chemical analysis, their underlying principles and their applications. This includes both classical "wet" methods and modern instrumental methods involving spectroscopy, chromatography, and electrochemistry. Prerequisite: CHM 112 Expected to be offered: Spring semester 2007 4 credits

CHM 392 Special Topics in Chemistry. Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 3 credits CHM 401 Biochemistry I. A detailed view of proteins, enzyme kinetics, and cellular metabolism. The relationship between structure and function and the regulatory mechanisms by which a cell or organism controls its own activities will be examined. Prerequisite: CHM 262 Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 4 credits

CHM 402 Biochemistry II. A detailed view of biosynthesis, especially emphasizing the role of enzymes and of DNA and RNA in transcription, translation, gene expression, and other cellular phenomena. The relationship between structure and function and the regulatory mechanisms by which a cell or organism controls its own activities will be examined. Prerequisite: CHM 262 Expected to be offered: Spring semester 2006 4 credits

CHM 490 Research in Chemistry. Research experience for students in Chemistry. This student initiated undergraduate research project aims to develop abilities for asking sound research questions, designing reasonable scientific approaches to answer such questions, and performing experiments to test both the design and the question. We consider how to assess difficulties and limitations in experimental strategies due to design, equipment, organism selected, etc. Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor Expected to be offered: Fall semesters 3 credits

CHM 492 Special Topics in Chemistry. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 1-3 credits

CHM 495 Internship. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 1-15 credits

CHM 499 Senior Thesis. This upper-division requirement of majors consists of o ral and written presentations by students majoring in chemistry and is based on critical evaluation of scientific literature and/or an independent research project. Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 1 credit

Forensic Courses

FSC 201 Introduction to Forensic Sciences. With laboratory. An overview of the basic elements of forensic sciences and criminalistics, and crime scene procedures and documentation. Methods of laboratory analysis for studies in specialized areas of science applied to solving criminal problems. Includes an introduction to forensic applications of science, including DNA profiling, pathology, serology, trace evidence, toxicology, and the role of the forensic laboratory. Expected to be offered: Fall semesters; Distance Learning: Fall semesters 3 credits

FSC 205 Forensic Chemistry. With laboratory. Introduction to the general concepts of chemistry as they apply to the solution of forensic problems. Includes topics from inorganic, organic, and biochemistry, with emphasis on mechanisms of applications to chemical problems. Topics include atoms, molecular studies, poisons and toxins, chemical pollutants, chemistry of blood, and trace element analysis. Prerequisite: FSC 201 (concurrent enrollment permitted) Expected to be offered: Fall semester 2006 3 credits

FSC 210 Forensic Biology. With laboratory. Introduction to the basics of general biology as applied to the resolution of forensic problems. Included will be analysis of materials from the study of cells, genetics, human biology, plants and poisons, zoology of microorganisms and insects, systems and functions within the body and serology. Emphasis on the mechanisms of solving biological problems that arise in the legal system. Prerequisite: FSC 201 (concurrent enrollment permitted) Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 3 credits

FSC 300 Physical Evidence in Forensic Sciences. Investigation into the nature of all possible types of evidence left or exchanged at the scene of a crime. Focus will be on the nature of materials, collection, and analysis for use in solving particular forensic problems. The analysis of physical evidence in regards to firearms examination, classification and comparison of bullets and cartridges, toolmarks, serial number restoration, document examination, hairs and fibers, voice-print identification, fingerprints, and polygraph exams will be considered. Prerequisite: FSC 201 Expected to be offered: Fall semesters, odd years 3 credits

FSC 301 Advanced Forensic Sciences I. With laboratory. Comparison and individualization of physical evidence by biological and chemical properties will be presented in lectures and carried out in laboratory. Theories and practices of microscopic, biological, immunological, and chemical analysis are applied with available equipment. Course deals specifically with the science of dactylography, impression evidence, blood evidence, textiles, firearms examination, toolmarks, and hair. Hands-on experience is stressed as much as possible. Prerequisite: FSC 201 Expected to be offered: Spring semesters, even years 3 credits

FSC 302 Advanced Forensic Sciences II. With laboratory. Introduction of advanced microscopic, chemical and instrumental methods with extensive "hands-on" experience provided by laboratory section. The role of the crime laboratory and the need for scientific crime detection is emphasized. Principles and methods of analysis of microscopic and macroscopic evidences such as glass, soil, paper, inks, dyes, paints, varnishes, explosives, fibers, drugs, and other potential physical traces will be covered. Expected to be offered: Fall semesters, even years 3 credits

FSC 392 Special Topics in Forensic Sciences. Topics of a specific nature will be presented in each course. Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 3 credits

FSC 420 Instrumental Analysis for Forensic Sciences. With laboratory. Investigation into the instrumental methods used by chemistry, biology, and medicine in solving crime problems. Topics include infrared analysis, UV-Visible spectroscopy, chromatography, serological analysis, use of blood groups, DNA analysis, advance forensic microscopy, pathology, and uses of plants and pharmaceutical toxicological methods in solving crimes. Expected to be offered: Spring semesters, even years 3 credits

FSC 430 Forensic Anthropology. With laboratory. Introduction to a detailed study of the information gained from human skeletal remains. Topics include determination of sex, age, time of death, causes of death, racial determination, osteology of humans. Extensive laboratory work in bone identification and analysis. Expected to be offered: Fall Semesters odd years 3 credits

FSC 495 Internship in Forensic Sciences. Intensive internship taken by students in their senior year working with one of the local or regional laboratories or with physicians involved in forensic work. The department will assign students to an instructor within the laboratory/facility for supervision. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor 3 credits

FSC 498 Senior Seminar in Forensic Sciences. Preparation and presentation of a capstone paper resulting from work undertaken during internship and as independent study on one of the diverse areas of forensic science. The student will be expected to show competency in gathering evidence, scientifically analyzing evidence, and in some cases, testifying in criminal court. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor 1 credit

General Science Courses

GSC 101 Physical Sciences. Introductory study of the realms of the physical sciences, including physics, chemistry, geology, astronomy, oceanography, meteorology, and paleontology. Includes a variety of integrated topics, including black holes and stellar evolution, atomic structure and forces, interactions of oceans and atmosphere, lasers and their uses, and the origin of the universe and chemical elements. Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 3 credits

GSC 121 Earth and Space Sciences. Overview of the earth as part of the solar system, and as part of the universe. Stresses forces working on earth, including plate tectonics, water interactions, and the development and change of the land/ocean/atmosphere conglomerate. Additional focus on identification of geologic forces and structures on other worlds, along with the origins of planetary systems as by-products of star evolution. History of study of earth and extraterrestrial bodies will be highlighted to show evolution of ideas over time. Expected to be offered: Spring and summer semesters; Distance Learning: Spring semesters 4 credits

GSC 158 History of Science. Overview of the realms of science, including physical, life, and earth and space sciences. Focuses on the concepts in science and technology that have shaped human culture, in both personal and social perspectives. Stresses history and nature of science, including the unifying concepts and the inquiry processes that scientists use in the discovery of new knowledge. Expected to be offered: Fall and summer semesters; Distance Learning: Fall semesters 4 credits

GSC 210 Geology and Paleontology. The study of the physical processes that have formed the earth through time. Emphasis upon sedimentary deposits and the depositional environments and preservation of both invertebrates and vertebrates, dating methods and origin of the earth through geologic time. Expected to be offered: Fall semesters, even years 4 credits

GSC 220 Astronomy. Overview of the forces and processes that have formed and shaped all the components of the universe. Course explores the solar system, formation and evolution of stars, galactic evolution, and the origin and development of the universe and its structures. Special topics of current interest including pulsars, black holes, birth and death of the entire universe, and multi-universe and alternate universe theories. Expected to be offered: Fall semesters, even years 3 credits

GSC 230 Meteorology and Oceanography. Introduction to the fluid systems of planet Earth. Focus will be on the processes and principles governing the oceans and the weather/climate systems of the world. Oceanic-atmospheric interactions will be stressed. Topics include water movements, undersea geology, chemical and biological formations, weather phenomena and their explanations, violent weather systems, oceanic features, and climates of the past. Expected to be offered: Spring semesters 3 credits

GSC 392 Special Topics in Science. Courses dealing with modern topics of interest in the rapidly developing sciences. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand 3 credits

 

Meet Your Professors

University of Great Falls, 1301 20th Street South, Great Falls, Montana 59405 • Contact

1-800-856-9544