Course Descriptions


Science (SCI) Courses

SCI 137 Chaos: The Self-Organizing Universe (3-2) 4 credits

An innovative introduction to Chaos which brings the new scientific paradigm to the undergraduate curriculum. Starting from geometric fractals describing trees, leaves, and snowflakes the quantitative understanding of fractals is achieved through laboratory exercises including modeling on computers. Relevance of the Chaos theory is explored across scientific disciplines, and extended to non-science areas such as communications, economics, and arts. This course fulfills a science elective course requirement for students whose primary area of study is other than the sciences; however, interested science/mathematics students can take this course as an elective. Prerequisite: High School algebra (Course I) or MAT 097.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SCI 151 Introduction to Astronomy (3-1) 3 credits

A survey of the mechanics of the solar system as they are interpreted by current astronomers. This course includes study of the motions of the earth, time and concepts and determination, planetary motions and characteristics, and general structure of the solar system as it appears to be at the present time.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SCI 171 Meteorology (3-0) 3 credits

Meteorology is the study of the air around us, the processes that cause weather and the interaction of the atmosphere with the Earth’s surface, ocean and life. This course explores the variables that are the driving force behind weather and climate.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF


SCI 200 Global Ecosystems (0-3) 3 credits

The purpose of this course will be to provide students with field experience relative to course work in the area of Science & Technology as presented at Finger Lakes Community College. This excursion will emphasize the ecosystems, climate change, habitat preservation and distributions within a specific ecosystem, as well as identification of flora and fauna in each studied community. All aspects of the region will be studied, including geology, geography, flora, fauna, culture and ecological initiatives. The course will provide outstanding opportunity for students to observe and photograph rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, volcanic geology (inactive), as well as the more common life forms of the environments visited. Students will encounter individuals employed in the fields of ecology, management and habitat preservation, university research, and will have the opportunity to explore this type of employment through interactions with professionals.  View Course Syllabus Adobe Acrobat, PDF