Course Descriptions

Listed below are the course descriptions for the selected subject.
By clicking on the Search Current Course Schedule icon (opens in new window), you can search the current course schedule to see if a course you are interested in is being offered this semester.



NATURAL SCIENCE



NATS 1001 -- Astronomy,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goal 3)

This course will provide an introduction to understanding the universe. Topics include spaceship earth, the nature of light and motion, the solar system, and the life and death of stars. It also includes coverage of current topics in astronomy. This course is intended for non-science majors.


NATS 1003 -- Geology,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goal 3)

This course will provide an introduction to the physical processes that have shaped and formed the solid earth. Topics include surface processes (such as streams and glaciers) and internal processes (such as plate tectonics and volcanoes). This course is intended for non-science majors.


NATS 1005 -- Meteorology,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goal 3)

This course will provide an introduction to the physical processes of atmospheric science. Topics include clouds, humidity, precipitation, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and atmospheric dynamics, with an emphasis on weather forecasting in the laboratory. This course is intended for non-science majors.


NATS 1051 -- Energy Issues and Solutions,   2 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goal 10)

This is an introductory course about energy issues and solutions to energy problems. It includes issues associated with traditional fuels such as petroleum, natural gas, coal, oil, and hydroelectric, as well as alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal. This course is intended for non-science majors.


NATS 1171 -- Seminar in the Biological Sciences,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goals 2 and 3)

(Cross-listed as BIOL 1171)

This course is designed to focus on the annual Nobel Conference theme explored at Gustavus Adolphus College. Presenters are internationally recognized to be on the cutting edge of their respective biological science disciplines. Attendance of the conference is required. Five to six weeks are preparatory, and following the conference a discussion-seminar format is used to further explore the conference theme. In a lab-like experience, students will do extensive reading and perform a library research project where results are reported in class.


NATS 1189 -- Topics:,   Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
This course has been developed as a potential permanent course. The course must follow all the same policies and procedures related to curriculum outlined by the college. It does not duplicate existing course offerings. Refer to course notes for specific course description.


NATS 2299 -- Independent Study,   Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Independent Study allows a student to earn credit while participating in a supervised learning experience in a community-based or work setting. Students must have successfully completed two courses in the discipline in which they want to undertake independent study. Forms are available in the Educational Services Office. All arrangements must be made prior to registration for the semester in which the project is scheduled and must be approved by the appropriate Dean of Educational Services. In addition, a project outline must be approved by the instructor who will supervise the student's work.