Aquatic Science & Astronomy

303610 Aquatic Science

Prerequisites: Biology, IPC or Chemistry Credit:1 

This is a lab-oriented course with special emphasis on Texas aquatic ecosystems. Students will gain an overall understanding of the flora and fauna found in freshwater and marine ecosystems and how they interact with the environment. Thorough studies are made of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of freshwater and marine habitats. Topics include components of the aquatic ecosystems, watersheds, climate and weather, and human impacts in the environment. Topics also include statewide and local water systems as well as an in-depth look into the oceans around the world. Students will acquire the necessary skills, responsibilities, and knowledge to maintain freshwater and/or marine aquarium ecosystems in the classroom and be good stewards to the earth. 

Astronomy 

Prerequisite - Biology and Chemistry or IPC    Credit: 1

Astronomy is a study of the Sun, Moon, stars, planets, and other astronomical objects.  Topics of study include the history of astronomy, measurements and tools used in astronomy, our relative place in the solar system, constellations, lunar phases, eclipses, seasons, Newton’s laws of gravitation, planets and their characteristics, gravitation and magnetic fields, the Sun and its characteristics, the life cycle and characteristics of stars, the Milky Way Galaxy and other active galaxies, historical development of human space flight and current events in Astronomy.