Program Description
The Peninsula College Natural Resources Associate in Applied Science-Transfer (AAS-T) Degree prepares students for jobs that support and sustain the natural environment. Classes focus on the integration of science, technology, and sustainable practices for natural resources management. Classes emphasize forest ecology and management, geographic information system (GIS) and forest mapping, silviculture, water quality, stream habitat monitoring, timber harvesting, forest road management, restoration ecology, fisheries, river restoration, fire science, and wildlife habitat management. The program includes outdoor learning in forests and waterways, lab sciences, classroom seminars, online course modules, and internships in workplace settings.
Program Length: 6 Quarters
Program Code: NRCNRAAS
Career Opportunities and Earnings
Potential career opportunities include:
- Forest and conservation technicians
- Forestry aide
- Forestry technician
- Natural resources technician
- Park ranger
- Resource technician
- Restoration technician
- Soil conservation technician
- Timber appraiser
- Timber management technician
For current employment and wage estimates, please visit and search for the relevant occupational term: bls.gov/oes.
Program Outcomes
When the Natural Resources program is completed the student will be able to:
- Perform basic tasks to maintain and improve the quality of a forest and the natural environment
- Provide technical assistance regarding the conservation of soil, water, forests, or related natural resources
- Compile data pertaining to size, content, condition, and other characteristics of forest tracts
- Assist conservation scientists in managing, improving, and protecting rangelands and wildlife habitats
- Work in a team to develop solutions to managing natural resources
Program Prerequisites
Students entering this program should have good familiarity with computer software and hardware in the Windows or MAC environment. College-level skills in English and math (eligibility for courses numbered 100 or higher) are required before registering for the English, math, or applied math courses in this program. Students may need to complete prerequisite coursework.
Sample Schedule
This sample schedule is provided as a guide for a full-time student starting in fall quarter whose goal is to earn the AAS-T. The typical student schedule is based on entering the program during the fall quarter, however some programs allow students to enter in the winter or spring as well. Since not all do, please confirm with an advisor whether this program must be started during a specific quarter or not.
First Quarter (Fall)
A short introduction to Microsoft Excel (spreadsheet) basics. Keyboarding skills are recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly CAT 118)
Credits: 1
Sustainable natural resources are essential for future generations. This class includes foundations of natural resource management, policy, laws, renewable natural resource systems, administration, and introduction to scientific data collection. Students will explore natural resource history, issues, principles, and sustainable approaches to natural resource management. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $50 natural resources course fee.
Credits: 5
This class focuses on ecosystems of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. Students will explore factors that influence ecosystem composition, disturbance-succession cycles, biodiversity, forests, and transformation of habitats. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 5
Global Information Systems (GIS) and mapping technologies provide tools to support restoration, protection, and preservation of natural resources and the environment. Students will learn how to use GIS for terrain and forest mapping. Class includes hands-on assignments with GIS software for computer mapping and data analysis. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $40 natural resources course fee.
Credits: 4
Second Quarter (Winter)
Healthy forests and communities rely on clean rivers and streams. Students will learn how to collect data to assess the conditions and quality of watersheds. Class includes sustainable practices that reduce the human impact on water quality and stream habitat. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $30 natural resources course fee.
Credits: 3
Invasive plants are capable of altering habitats and causing extinction of native plants and animals. This class includes invasive plant identification and methods to control and prevent invasive species in Washington State. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $20 natural resources course fee.
Credits: 2
Wildlife habitat management improves existing habitat for the benefits of animals and healthy ecosystems. This class focuses on wildlife habitat management, population demographics, interspecies interaction, analysis of contemporary wildlife management problems, and planning for sustainable wildlife habitat. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $50 natural resources course fee.
Credits: 5
Silviculture is the art and science of controlling the growth and composition of a healthy forest. This class focuses on the principles of forest management and silviculture, forest protection, insect and disease control, stewardship of nonindustrial forests, rehabilitation, and cooperative forest management. Class emphasizes the science of establishing sustainable forests and woodlands. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $40 natural resources course fee.
Credits: 4
Third Quarter (Spring)
Survey of workplace skills, including communication, team building, problem solving, and leadership. Emphasis on concepts of perception, attitude, motivation, and ethics.
Credits: 3
Introduction to restoration ecology theory with a focus on the recovery of Pacific Northwest ecosystems. Students will explore the impact of economics, climate change, pollution, and other disturbances that degrade ecosystems. Class includes methods for reliably collecting and recording data, and methods for restoring damaged environments and sustaining healthy ecosystems. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 3
Fish are important for their ecological, cultural, and economic impacts. However, reductions in habitat, over-fishing, and climate change have created challenges when managing this important resource. Students will explore the impacts of recreation fishing, commercial harvests, and the environment for fresh and saltwater fisheries with an emphasis on fish of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 3
Wildland fire science examines the causes, consequences, and benefits of wildfire, and how to prevent and manage catastrophic wildfires. This class includes analysis of wildfire behavior, suppression tools, and human factors in wildland fire service. Class prepares students for Wildland Fire Incident Qualification Card Certification. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 6
Fourth Quarter (Fall)
Introduction to the structural and functional characteristics of life. Surveys the evolutionary, ecological, cellular, and genetic biology of living organisms. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Many of the streams and rivers of the Pacific Northwest have been altered from their historic conditions due to anthropogenic influences. Some of the negative impacts to streams include: impassable fish barriers, reductions of instream wood, disconnection of floodplains and off-channel habitat, removal or alterations of riparian forests, and the encroachment of invasive species. In this class, students will explore threats to healthy rivers in Washington State, and principles for sustainable river restoration. Includes methodologies, tools, and techniques for monitoring, assessing, and analyzing upstream conditions and data for river restoration. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 4
Introduction to methods and applications of elementary descriptive and inferential statistics; summarizing data graphically and numerically, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Fifth Quarter (Winter)
ENGL& 101 or ENGL& 235
×Active reading, effective writing, and critical thinking, using subjective and objective approaches. Introduction to research techniques. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Communication Skills)
Credits: 5
Develop professional skills in research, design, and communication of technical information. Emphasis on audience analysis, clear and effective writing style, and use of visual elements. Composition of documents in a variety of professional formats such as memos, proposals, progress reports, completion reports, lab reports, and instruction manuals. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly ENGL 150, Elective)
Credits: 5
NATR 260 or Natural Sciences or Social Sciences
×Students may combine credit from NATR 260 Internship, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences Distribution courses for a minimum of 20 credits.
Learn from natural resource professionals. This class provides opportunities for Natural Resource students to learn and apply new skills in a workplace and/or field experience setting. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 1 - 5
Natural Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
A survey of humankind from a biological perspective. Includes human evolution and variation, hominid phylogeny and taxonomic theory, and the interaction between human biology, behavior, and culture. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Astronomy and Physics
Introduction to the universe, with emphasis on conceptual, as contrasted with mathematical, comprehension. Modern theories and observations; ideas concerning nature and evolution of galaxies; quasars, stars, black holes, planets, and solar system. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to physics intended for students not majoring in science. Topics include basic coverage of motion, force, energy, momentum, gravity, electricity and magnetism, light, waves, and relativity. Course includes one lab credit. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Mechanics. Working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry: one year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of mechanics and experiments in mechanics for physical science and engineering majors. One year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Biology
Introduction to the structural and functional characteristics of life. Surveys the evolutionary, ecological, cellular, and genetic biology of living organisms. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Includes process of science, overview of central ideas of biology (unity, diversity, interdependence, evolution), basic chemistry concepts, biomolecules, cell structure, cell physiology (including enzyme function, energetics, synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein), cell reproduction, introduction to genetics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. An introduction to evolutionary and ecological processes involved in the generation of our planet’s biodiversity, including a review of patterns and processes that influence the origin, evolution, distribution, and abundance of living things. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to structure and function of biomolecules, cells, and membranes; photosynthesis and respiration; molecular origin of life; phylogenetic and metabolic diversity of prokaryotes; and molecular genetics and genomics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Third course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to the study of the structure and function of plants and animals and how they cope with varying environmental conditions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Structure and function of the human body. Homeostasis; tissues; integumentary, skeletal, nervous, and muscular systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Includes microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, ecology, technological applications, microbial diseases of humans, immunology, public health, and medical control strategies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Hands-on approach utilizing facilities at local marine laboratory, field trips, and group projects to learn biological concepts relevant to marine biology. Emphasis on local organisms and ecology. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include cell structure and function, cellular energy metabolism, photosynthesis, genetics, and various facets of zoology, including anatomy and physiology, physiological ecology, and development. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include plant growth and survival, photosynthesis, and plant/ environmental interactions, evolution and diversity of living plants and animals, fundamentals of ecology, and conservation biology. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Botany
Introduction to general plant biology. Anatomy, physiology, and diversity of common protists, fungi, and plants, with emphasis on plants of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Chemistry
Introduction to chemistry covering selected principles and their effect on ourselves and our environment. Intended for non-science majors wishing to improve their science literacy and develop a long-term interest in science. Includes online lab. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
For individuals with little or no chemistry background. Atomic nature of matter, chemical bonding, periodic table, chemical reactions, phases of matter, solutions, equilibrium, reaction rates, and nuclear reactions. Includes laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents organic chemistry and biochemistry, with emphasis on functional groups, synthesis, and biochemical applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 6
For science and engineering majors. This course focuses on the fundamentals of chemical structures: atomic nature of matter, atomic structure, periodic trends, quantum concepts, molecular structure, and chemical reactions. Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Computer Science, Mathematics and Philosophy
Only five credits from this category can count toward the Natural Sciences distribution.
An introduction to fundamentals of computer science. Topics covered include algorithmic design; problem-solving techniques for computer programming; fundamentals of digital logic and computer organization; the role of the operating system; introductory programming methodology, including variables, assignment statements, control statements and subroutines (methods); programming paradigms; the compilation process; theoretical limits of computation; database structures; and social and ethical issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
A study of a variety of mathematical topics for non-science majors. The topics covered may differ between sections, but may include problem solving strategies, logic, set theory, number theory, mathematics of finance, probability and statistics, or geometry. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Analysis of linear, piecewise, quadratic, polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential, and logarithmic functions; their applications; and their graphs. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Conic sections; trigonometric functions; identities; inverse trigonometric functions; trigonometric equations; solutions of right triangles; laws of sines and cosines; vectors; polar coordinates; and complex numbers. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to methods and applications of elementary descriptive and inferential statistics; summarizing data graphically and numerically, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits, rates of change, graphing, differentiating, optimizing, polynomials, integration, logarithmic and exponential functions, implicit differentiation, business applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits and continuity; techniques and applications of derivatives of algebraic and transcendental functions; an introduction to antiderivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integration involving algebraic and transcendental functions. Applications of integration, including an introduction to differential equations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sequences and series, vector algebra and vector functions, functions of several variables, and partial derivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Methods topics include teaching the usage of technology. Math topics include algebra, geometry, measurement, and statistics. This course satisfies the quantitative skills requirement for the AA-DTA degree, provided that Math for Elementary Teachers I has also been completed satisfactorily. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The study of linear, quadratic, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and solving their related equations; systems of equations; matrices; linear programming (graphically); and the mathematics of finance. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to first-order symbolic logic. Topics include symbolizing, truth tables, truth trees, proofs for sentence and predicate logic with identity, conditional and indirect proof, and invalidating interpretations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Environmental Science
Scientific approach to understanding nature and scope of contemporary problems in our environment. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An interdisciplinary science course for both non-science majors and science students. Topics include the practice of environmental science, ecological principles, demographics, forest and wildlife resources, energy, planning, climate change, and pollution. Underlying scientific principles and practices, including the exploration and presentation of scientific uncertainty, are identified and related to societal issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores past and present contributions from major events and leaders to the sustainability movement. It combines the basic ways natural systems work with an understanding of economics, social equity, and ecology, followed by a critical analysis of the societal value and environmental impact of trends in sustainability. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Geodesy and mapping; introduction to atmospheric science, weather, climate, the oceans, hydrology, and the earth’s heat budget. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geology
A survey of Earth science including topics on rock and mineral characteristics, natural hazards, surface and groundwater environments, marine and continental environments, resources, land-forms, and global climate change. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to geology and survey of the processes that shape the surface of the earth, including water, wind, ice, and gravity. Topics covered include: plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, the geologic time scale, and concepts of mineralogy and petrology. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to historical geology and paleontology. Studies the formation and development through time of the solid Earth, atmosphere, and biosphere. Covers past movements and locations of the continents and interpretation of past environments as recorded in rock and fossil records as well as the history of life and how living organisms evolved over geologic time from the first single-celled organisms through the first invertebrates, vertebrates and plants, to the dinosaurs, and on to the rise of the mammals and early hominids. Includes the chance to examine fossils of early life, various invertebrates, fish, other prehistoric animals, and ancient plants. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores processes that form and shape the earth. These processes comprise a series of integrated systems that interact to produce the earth's continents, oceans, atmosphere, and life. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Nutrition
Basic principles of nutrition across the lifespan. Details the digestive process, the digestion and absorption of macro and micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Examines the role of nutrition in the maintenance of optimal health and disease prevention. Includes analysis of personal dietary habits and the components of a healthful diet. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Oceanography
General survey of geological, physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Includes history of oceanography, origin of ocean basins, plate tectonics, sea floor, waves, tides, currents, properties of water, composition of seawater, ocean productivity, pelagic environment, benthic environment, coastal processes, marine resources, and pollution. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly OCEA& 101, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Zoology
Introduction to the animal phyla. Studies of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution illustrate the diversity and unity of animal life. Emphasis on animals of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
Introduction for nonmajors to study of humans as biological and cultural beings. Includes surveys of archaeology and physical, cultural, and linguistic anthropology to examine human biological and cultural evolution, culture, and cultural systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces students to the key concepts and methods utilized by archaeologists in the excavation, analysis, and interpretation of a variety of material evidence left by ancient societies and cultures. Students will engage in a series of practical exercises (labs) to gain hands-on experience with a variety of artifacts and techniques commonly utilized within the discipline. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to study of recent cultures and societies. Focus on development of anthropological thought, language, culture, and broad patterns of cultural behavior. Includes cross-cultural perspectives on belief systems, economic behavior, family, kinship, and sociopolitical structures. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theories, methodologies, and principles used in the examination of the origins and development of religious beliefs and practices ranging from the Paleolithic through Modern Period. Topics range from gender rites to rites of passage, from ritual feasting to ritual fasting, from normative practices to taboos, sacred landscapes to profane utterances. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Economics
Promotes use of critical thinking to explore an individual's relationship to the supply and demand of goods and services. Tools of economic analysis are used to investigate management of environmental systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents economic theories used as tools for critical thinking to show how the U.S. economy operates. Emphasis on causes and consequences of unemployment and inflation and how they affect the well-being of Americans. The use of government spending, taxation, and the monetary system to promote full employment and stable prices will be examined. Explores role of energy and natural resources in shaping our economic future. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to fundamental economic concepts through contemporary social issues. Examine how societies deal with limited resources and social, cultural, and political responses to changing economic conditions. Recommended for those seeking a greater understanding of economics and contemporary issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Introduces concepts and techniques relating to the study of place and population, migration, economic, cultural and political organizations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
History
Historical comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from prehistory to ca.1200 CE. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from roughly 1200 CE to 1815. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative historical study of the world's major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from the beginning of industrialization to today’s global world. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States development from European settlements clinging tenuously on the Atlantic coast, or wayward outposts in the Southeast and Southwest, to a large, relatively unified nation between two oceans. We will examine the people of North America, Europe and Africa before colonialism and then address the social, cultural, economic and geographical determinants for colonization. We will explore how colonists began to see themselves separate from the mother country and how this resulted in revolution and a new nation. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States evolvement after the early years of nation building. The course will begin at the end of the Jacksonian Reform era, and end with the period of overseas expansion as the United States become a Great Power nation. This course will examine a number of crisis or issues of change, including civil war, western expansion, industrialization, immigration and urbanization. The student will learn how the people of the United States responded to crisis periods through reform movements such as Populism, unionization, Progressivism and imperialism. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The third part of the History of the United States examines the 20th century starting with World War I. In this period attention directed toward the development of the United States as a modern nation-state. We will cover the process industrialization, urbanization, and immigration that shaped the contours of the country right into the 21st century. Other topics of interest in the larger processes will be the Great Depression, Imperialism, World War I and II, the Cold War, environmentalism, nuclear war and terrorism. The course will end as the United States enters the post-Cold War era. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
With emphasis on the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Pacific Northwest (PNW) history proceeds through five main periods: indigenous peoples before European arrival, European arrival and exploration, European colonialism, industrial and urban development and immigration, and regional autonomy for the PNW, and considers various marginalized groups in society, including Native Americans, African Americans, and Asian Americans. Within these different historical periods, the course also examines social difference (e.g., ethnicity, race, and gender), economic and political organization, and cultural values. ENGL& 101 is strongly recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course will examine the environmental history of the Greater Pacific Northwest; the geographic area defined by the Columbia River watershed, including the coastal areas of present-day Oregon, extending north through the Salish Sea including into Canada. Topics covered will include natural history of the Pacific Northwest, the experience of native indigenous people as past, present, and on-going stewards of the land, the historical dynamic of the PNW as a meeting point of multiple cultures, and how historical cultural, social and economic values influence interaction with the environment as a set of changing relationships over time. It will also ask the class as a community and as individuals to reflect on how we understand and value our environment, how we interact with people and place, and how we engage with the past. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Students in this course will self-reflect on their own learning in relationship to indigenous pedagogies and explore if indigenous informed educational philosophies can represent a practice of healing. This course will examine The Assimilation Era, 1870s to 1970s, when governmental educational institutions were employed to disrupt and disappear the complex educational systems practiced by native people since time immemorial. The common practices of pre-colonial indigenous pedagogies will be illuminated and engaged to critically explore the colonizing pedagogy forced on students in government-sanctioned schools. Indigenous pedagogies have proven so resilient that they help to illustrate how indigenous people have continually renewed and revived their cultures through education despite the ongoing oppression of colonization. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly HIST 215, Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integrated Indigenous Studies
Introduction to American Indian and Indigenous Studies, a field of research grounded in the study of American Indian and indigenous peoples. This field emphasizes individual and community wellness, political self-determination, cultural revitalization and cross-cultural understanding. This course presents foundational terms, concepts and ideas and is recommended for all students but is particularly relevant for those who will pursue a degree in Native American Studies or Indigenous Studies or American Indian/Indigenous Studies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Political Science
Nature and function of political institutions in major national systems. ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Popular government in United States; theory and practice of national institutions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to the core issues and approaches used to understand the international system. The study of international relations broadly encompasses the fields of political economy and international security, both of which will be covered in this course, along with increasingly prominent cross-border issues that require global governance (countries working together to resolve problems). This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces us to political systems and governments in different countries. We will learn some core approaches, concepts, themes, and theories that will help us understand, analyze, and compare domestic politics and institutions seen around the world. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introductory course aimed at familiarizing the student with important ideas and ideologies that have shaped the contemporary world. Ideologies to be explored include Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism, Fascism, etc. We will explore the philosophical foundations that undergird different political and economic systems in the world. To promote a deeper understanding, we will also read a selection of original works of major contributors within the ideological traditions. ENGL& 101 is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Psychology
Introduction to science of behavior. Emphasis on biological foundations of behavior, cognition, learning, intelligence, motivation, memory, personality, and psychological disorders. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Scientific study of human growth, development, and change throughout life cycle. Physical, cognitive, social, personality, and other aspects of the individual examined through successive stages, from prenatal development until death. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Applies principles of science to study of abnormal behavior. Develop broad understanding of origin, characteristics, and classification of mental disorders from perspectives of psychological theory and research. Introduction to applied areas of diagnosis and assessment incorporated. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Cognitive Psychology explores the mind and brain as information processing systems. We will explore how the brain and mind are designed to collect and interpret data from the environment and then use that data to perceive the world, create memories, make decisions, plan actions, and act in the environment in such a way as to accomplish a required goal. This course explores the cognitive approach to psychology as it studies the topics of memory, attention, perception, problem solving, decision making, and language, among others. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Study of impact of social situations on individual thought processes, emotions, and behavior. Experimental investigation of interpersonal attraction, attitude formation, conformity, aggression, social perception, helping behavior, and prejudice. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Science
Introductory course to develop the analytical skills necessary to understand major developments in the contemporary world and to provide the basis for more advanced study in the field of world politics. The course deepens students’ understanding of globalization and the need for common solutions to global problems that transcend borders. This class will include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sociology
Human social behavior, social institutions, and society from sociological perspective. Includes introduction to sociological theory and research and application to topics such as social structure, socialization, deviance, inequality, and stratification. Completion of ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course explores the definition, causes, consequences, and solutions to social problems in U.S. society. We use sociological perspectives to examine some of the most critical problems facing society such as gun violence, racism, climate change, income inequality and poverty. The course examines how race, class, and gender inequalities contribute to and manifest as social problems. We also examine the roles of policymakers, social advocates, and the media in the process of defining social problems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Examines elements that create differences within society and exposes learners to a variety of cultural ideas that will lead to a better understanding of people who are different. Culture, ethnicity, lifestyle, religion, disabilities, age, and gender issues will be examined. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores gender and sexuality as organizing principles of identity, interactions, and social institutions. The class emphasizes the intersection of gender, sexuality, race, class, and age in shaping contemporary inequalities. Major theoretical approaches to gender and sexuality will also be introduced. Other topics include media, family, culture, relationships, work, and social movements. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores society’s relationship with food and agriculture. We examine practices of production, distribution, preparation, and consumption of food. From seeds to the waste stream, we learn what social, political, and economic factors shape our food system and our food choices. Our focus will be both global and local as we investigate the relationships between food, culture, inequality, and ecology. Food justice and food security are organizing themes of the course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to types of museums, with a focus on Indigenous museums and indigenized museums, and the roles of such institutions within society. This course explores historical and current issues of power structures forming narratives and representations about identity, race, ethnicity, culture, history, and gender within museums. Social justice and social change are important themes for this course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
NATR 260 or Natural Sciences or Social Sciences
×Students may combine credit from NATR 260 Internship, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences Distribution courses for a minimum of 20 credits.
Learn from natural resource professionals. This class provides opportunities for Natural Resource students to learn and apply new skills in a workplace and/or field experience setting. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 1 - 5
Natural Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
A survey of humankind from a biological perspective. Includes human evolution and variation, hominid phylogeny and taxonomic theory, and the interaction between human biology, behavior, and culture. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Astronomy and Physics
Introduction to the universe, with emphasis on conceptual, as contrasted with mathematical, comprehension. Modern theories and observations; ideas concerning nature and evolution of galaxies; quasars, stars, black holes, planets, and solar system. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to physics intended for students not majoring in science. Topics include basic coverage of motion, force, energy, momentum, gravity, electricity and magnetism, light, waves, and relativity. Course includes one lab credit. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Mechanics. Working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry: one year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of mechanics and experiments in mechanics for physical science and engineering majors. One year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Biology
Introduction to the structural and functional characteristics of life. Surveys the evolutionary, ecological, cellular, and genetic biology of living organisms. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Includes process of science, overview of central ideas of biology (unity, diversity, interdependence, evolution), basic chemistry concepts, biomolecules, cell structure, cell physiology (including enzyme function, energetics, synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein), cell reproduction, introduction to genetics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. An introduction to evolutionary and ecological processes involved in the generation of our planet’s biodiversity, including a review of patterns and processes that influence the origin, evolution, distribution, and abundance of living things. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to structure and function of biomolecules, cells, and membranes; photosynthesis and respiration; molecular origin of life; phylogenetic and metabolic diversity of prokaryotes; and molecular genetics and genomics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Third course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to the study of the structure and function of plants and animals and how they cope with varying environmental conditions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Structure and function of the human body. Homeostasis; tissues; integumentary, skeletal, nervous, and muscular systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Includes microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, ecology, technological applications, microbial diseases of humans, immunology, public health, and medical control strategies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Hands-on approach utilizing facilities at local marine laboratory, field trips, and group projects to learn biological concepts relevant to marine biology. Emphasis on local organisms and ecology. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include cell structure and function, cellular energy metabolism, photosynthesis, genetics, and various facets of zoology, including anatomy and physiology, physiological ecology, and development. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include plant growth and survival, photosynthesis, and plant/ environmental interactions, evolution and diversity of living plants and animals, fundamentals of ecology, and conservation biology. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Botany
Introduction to general plant biology. Anatomy, physiology, and diversity of common protists, fungi, and plants, with emphasis on plants of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Chemistry
Introduction to chemistry covering selected principles and their effect on ourselves and our environment. Intended for non-science majors wishing to improve their science literacy and develop a long-term interest in science. Includes online lab. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
For individuals with little or no chemistry background. Atomic nature of matter, chemical bonding, periodic table, chemical reactions, phases of matter, solutions, equilibrium, reaction rates, and nuclear reactions. Includes laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents organic chemistry and biochemistry, with emphasis on functional groups, synthesis, and biochemical applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 6
For science and engineering majors. This course focuses on the fundamentals of chemical structures: atomic nature of matter, atomic structure, periodic trends, quantum concepts, molecular structure, and chemical reactions. Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Computer Science, Mathematics and Philosophy
Only five credits from this category can count toward the Natural Sciences distribution.
An introduction to fundamentals of computer science. Topics covered include algorithmic design; problem-solving techniques for computer programming; fundamentals of digital logic and computer organization; the role of the operating system; introductory programming methodology, including variables, assignment statements, control statements and subroutines (methods); programming paradigms; the compilation process; theoretical limits of computation; database structures; and social and ethical issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
A study of a variety of mathematical topics for non-science majors. The topics covered may differ between sections, but may include problem solving strategies, logic, set theory, number theory, mathematics of finance, probability and statistics, or geometry. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Analysis of linear, piecewise, quadratic, polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential, and logarithmic functions; their applications; and their graphs. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Conic sections; trigonometric functions; identities; inverse trigonometric functions; trigonometric equations; solutions of right triangles; laws of sines and cosines; vectors; polar coordinates; and complex numbers. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to methods and applications of elementary descriptive and inferential statistics; summarizing data graphically and numerically, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits, rates of change, graphing, differentiating, optimizing, polynomials, integration, logarithmic and exponential functions, implicit differentiation, business applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits and continuity; techniques and applications of derivatives of algebraic and transcendental functions; an introduction to antiderivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integration involving algebraic and transcendental functions. Applications of integration, including an introduction to differential equations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sequences and series, vector algebra and vector functions, functions of several variables, and partial derivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Methods topics include teaching the usage of technology. Math topics include algebra, geometry, measurement, and statistics. This course satisfies the quantitative skills requirement for the AA-DTA degree, provided that Math for Elementary Teachers I has also been completed satisfactorily. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The study of linear, quadratic, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and solving their related equations; systems of equations; matrices; linear programming (graphically); and the mathematics of finance. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to first-order symbolic logic. Topics include symbolizing, truth tables, truth trees, proofs for sentence and predicate logic with identity, conditional and indirect proof, and invalidating interpretations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Environmental Science
Scientific approach to understanding nature and scope of contemporary problems in our environment. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An interdisciplinary science course for both non-science majors and science students. Topics include the practice of environmental science, ecological principles, demographics, forest and wildlife resources, energy, planning, climate change, and pollution. Underlying scientific principles and practices, including the exploration and presentation of scientific uncertainty, are identified and related to societal issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores past and present contributions from major events and leaders to the sustainability movement. It combines the basic ways natural systems work with an understanding of economics, social equity, and ecology, followed by a critical analysis of the societal value and environmental impact of trends in sustainability. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Geodesy and mapping; introduction to atmospheric science, weather, climate, the oceans, hydrology, and the earth’s heat budget. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geology
A survey of Earth science including topics on rock and mineral characteristics, natural hazards, surface and groundwater environments, marine and continental environments, resources, land-forms, and global climate change. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to geology and survey of the processes that shape the surface of the earth, including water, wind, ice, and gravity. Topics covered include: plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, the geologic time scale, and concepts of mineralogy and petrology. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to historical geology and paleontology. Studies the formation and development through time of the solid Earth, atmosphere, and biosphere. Covers past movements and locations of the continents and interpretation of past environments as recorded in rock and fossil records as well as the history of life and how living organisms evolved over geologic time from the first single-celled organisms through the first invertebrates, vertebrates and plants, to the dinosaurs, and on to the rise of the mammals and early hominids. Includes the chance to examine fossils of early life, various invertebrates, fish, other prehistoric animals, and ancient plants. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores processes that form and shape the earth. These processes comprise a series of integrated systems that interact to produce the earth's continents, oceans, atmosphere, and life. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Nutrition
Basic principles of nutrition across the lifespan. Details the digestive process, the digestion and absorption of macro and micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Examines the role of nutrition in the maintenance of optimal health and disease prevention. Includes analysis of personal dietary habits and the components of a healthful diet. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Oceanography
General survey of geological, physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Includes history of oceanography, origin of ocean basins, plate tectonics, sea floor, waves, tides, currents, properties of water, composition of seawater, ocean productivity, pelagic environment, benthic environment, coastal processes, marine resources, and pollution. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly OCEA& 101, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Zoology
Introduction to the animal phyla. Studies of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution illustrate the diversity and unity of animal life. Emphasis on animals of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
Introduction for nonmajors to study of humans as biological and cultural beings. Includes surveys of archaeology and physical, cultural, and linguistic anthropology to examine human biological and cultural evolution, culture, and cultural systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces students to the key concepts and methods utilized by archaeologists in the excavation, analysis, and interpretation of a variety of material evidence left by ancient societies and cultures. Students will engage in a series of practical exercises (labs) to gain hands-on experience with a variety of artifacts and techniques commonly utilized within the discipline. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to study of recent cultures and societies. Focus on development of anthropological thought, language, culture, and broad patterns of cultural behavior. Includes cross-cultural perspectives on belief systems, economic behavior, family, kinship, and sociopolitical structures. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theories, methodologies, and principles used in the examination of the origins and development of religious beliefs and practices ranging from the Paleolithic through Modern Period. Topics range from gender rites to rites of passage, from ritual feasting to ritual fasting, from normative practices to taboos, sacred landscapes to profane utterances. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Economics
Promotes use of critical thinking to explore an individual's relationship to the supply and demand of goods and services. Tools of economic analysis are used to investigate management of environmental systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents economic theories used as tools for critical thinking to show how the U.S. economy operates. Emphasis on causes and consequences of unemployment and inflation and how they affect the well-being of Americans. The use of government spending, taxation, and the monetary system to promote full employment and stable prices will be examined. Explores role of energy and natural resources in shaping our economic future. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to fundamental economic concepts through contemporary social issues. Examine how societies deal with limited resources and social, cultural, and political responses to changing economic conditions. Recommended for those seeking a greater understanding of economics and contemporary issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Introduces concepts and techniques relating to the study of place and population, migration, economic, cultural and political organizations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
History
Historical comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from prehistory to ca.1200 CE. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from roughly 1200 CE to 1815. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative historical study of the world's major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from the beginning of industrialization to today’s global world. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States development from European settlements clinging tenuously on the Atlantic coast, or wayward outposts in the Southeast and Southwest, to a large, relatively unified nation between two oceans. We will examine the people of North America, Europe and Africa before colonialism and then address the social, cultural, economic and geographical determinants for colonization. We will explore how colonists began to see themselves separate from the mother country and how this resulted in revolution and a new nation. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States evolvement after the early years of nation building. The course will begin at the end of the Jacksonian Reform era, and end with the period of overseas expansion as the United States become a Great Power nation. This course will examine a number of crisis or issues of change, including civil war, western expansion, industrialization, immigration and urbanization. The student will learn how the people of the United States responded to crisis periods through reform movements such as Populism, unionization, Progressivism and imperialism. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The third part of the History of the United States examines the 20th century starting with World War I. In this period attention directed toward the development of the United States as a modern nation-state. We will cover the process industrialization, urbanization, and immigration that shaped the contours of the country right into the 21st century. Other topics of interest in the larger processes will be the Great Depression, Imperialism, World War I and II, the Cold War, environmentalism, nuclear war and terrorism. The course will end as the United States enters the post-Cold War era. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
With emphasis on the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Pacific Northwest (PNW) history proceeds through five main periods: indigenous peoples before European arrival, European arrival and exploration, European colonialism, industrial and urban development and immigration, and regional autonomy for the PNW, and considers various marginalized groups in society, including Native Americans, African Americans, and Asian Americans. Within these different historical periods, the course also examines social difference (e.g., ethnicity, race, and gender), economic and political organization, and cultural values. ENGL& 101 is strongly recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course will examine the environmental history of the Greater Pacific Northwest; the geographic area defined by the Columbia River watershed, including the coastal areas of present-day Oregon, extending north through the Salish Sea including into Canada. Topics covered will include natural history of the Pacific Northwest, the experience of native indigenous people as past, present, and on-going stewards of the land, the historical dynamic of the PNW as a meeting point of multiple cultures, and how historical cultural, social and economic values influence interaction with the environment as a set of changing relationships over time. It will also ask the class as a community and as individuals to reflect on how we understand and value our environment, how we interact with people and place, and how we engage with the past. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Students in this course will self-reflect on their own learning in relationship to indigenous pedagogies and explore if indigenous informed educational philosophies can represent a practice of healing. This course will examine The Assimilation Era, 1870s to 1970s, when governmental educational institutions were employed to disrupt and disappear the complex educational systems practiced by native people since time immemorial. The common practices of pre-colonial indigenous pedagogies will be illuminated and engaged to critically explore the colonizing pedagogy forced on students in government-sanctioned schools. Indigenous pedagogies have proven so resilient that they help to illustrate how indigenous people have continually renewed and revived their cultures through education despite the ongoing oppression of colonization. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly HIST 215, Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integrated Indigenous Studies
Introduction to American Indian and Indigenous Studies, a field of research grounded in the study of American Indian and indigenous peoples. This field emphasizes individual and community wellness, political self-determination, cultural revitalization and cross-cultural understanding. This course presents foundational terms, concepts and ideas and is recommended for all students but is particularly relevant for those who will pursue a degree in Native American Studies or Indigenous Studies or American Indian/Indigenous Studies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Political Science
Nature and function of political institutions in major national systems. ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Popular government in United States; theory and practice of national institutions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to the core issues and approaches used to understand the international system. The study of international relations broadly encompasses the fields of political economy and international security, both of which will be covered in this course, along with increasingly prominent cross-border issues that require global governance (countries working together to resolve problems). This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces us to political systems and governments in different countries. We will learn some core approaches, concepts, themes, and theories that will help us understand, analyze, and compare domestic politics and institutions seen around the world. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introductory course aimed at familiarizing the student with important ideas and ideologies that have shaped the contemporary world. Ideologies to be explored include Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism, Fascism, etc. We will explore the philosophical foundations that undergird different political and economic systems in the world. To promote a deeper understanding, we will also read a selection of original works of major contributors within the ideological traditions. ENGL& 101 is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Psychology
Introduction to science of behavior. Emphasis on biological foundations of behavior, cognition, learning, intelligence, motivation, memory, personality, and psychological disorders. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Scientific study of human growth, development, and change throughout life cycle. Physical, cognitive, social, personality, and other aspects of the individual examined through successive stages, from prenatal development until death. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Applies principles of science to study of abnormal behavior. Develop broad understanding of origin, characteristics, and classification of mental disorders from perspectives of psychological theory and research. Introduction to applied areas of diagnosis and assessment incorporated. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Cognitive Psychology explores the mind and brain as information processing systems. We will explore how the brain and mind are designed to collect and interpret data from the environment and then use that data to perceive the world, create memories, make decisions, plan actions, and act in the environment in such a way as to accomplish a required goal. This course explores the cognitive approach to psychology as it studies the topics of memory, attention, perception, problem solving, decision making, and language, among others. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Study of impact of social situations on individual thought processes, emotions, and behavior. Experimental investigation of interpersonal attraction, attitude formation, conformity, aggression, social perception, helping behavior, and prejudice. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Science
Introductory course to develop the analytical skills necessary to understand major developments in the contemporary world and to provide the basis for more advanced study in the field of world politics. The course deepens students’ understanding of globalization and the need for common solutions to global problems that transcend borders. This class will include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sociology
Human social behavior, social institutions, and society from sociological perspective. Includes introduction to sociological theory and research and application to topics such as social structure, socialization, deviance, inequality, and stratification. Completion of ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course explores the definition, causes, consequences, and solutions to social problems in U.S. society. We use sociological perspectives to examine some of the most critical problems facing society such as gun violence, racism, climate change, income inequality and poverty. The course examines how race, class, and gender inequalities contribute to and manifest as social problems. We also examine the roles of policymakers, social advocates, and the media in the process of defining social problems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Examines elements that create differences within society and exposes learners to a variety of cultural ideas that will lead to a better understanding of people who are different. Culture, ethnicity, lifestyle, religion, disabilities, age, and gender issues will be examined. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores gender and sexuality as organizing principles of identity, interactions, and social institutions. The class emphasizes the intersection of gender, sexuality, race, class, and age in shaping contemporary inequalities. Major theoretical approaches to gender and sexuality will also be introduced. Other topics include media, family, culture, relationships, work, and social movements. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores society’s relationship with food and agriculture. We examine practices of production, distribution, preparation, and consumption of food. From seeds to the waste stream, we learn what social, political, and economic factors shape our food system and our food choices. Our focus will be both global and local as we investigate the relationships between food, culture, inequality, and ecology. Food justice and food security are organizing themes of the course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to types of museums, with a focus on Indigenous museums and indigenized museums, and the roles of such institutions within society. This course explores historical and current issues of power structures forming narratives and representations about identity, race, ethnicity, culture, history, and gender within museums. Social justice and social change are important themes for this course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The following courses are recommended to fulfill this requirement: General Biology, Cell Biology Emphasis (BIOL& 160), Field Methods in Ecology (BIOL 299), Introduction to Botany (BOT 101), Chemical Concepts (CHEM& 110), Introduction to Chemistry (CHEM& 121), Introduction to Economics (ECON 101), Survey of Environmental Science (ENVS& 100), Introduction to Physical Geology (GEOL& 101), Natural Resources Internship (NATR 260) or Introduction to Oceanography (OCEA& 100).
Sixth Quarter (Spring)
Elective
×Prepares individuals to perform basic first aid procedures in cases of emergencies. Learn how to prevent accidents in the home and on the job. Adult CPR. Provides two-year certification. This class may include students from multiple sections.
This class has a $135.72 first aid course fee.
Credits: 1
Introduction to timber harvesting, laws, policies, practices, contract preparation and administration, measurement, appraisal, logging systems, and forest road engineering. Learn how forestry operations and roads are an essential part of a well-managed forest. Class includes application of the Forest Practices Act and standards for timber harvesting. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 4
Learn from natural resource professionals. This class provides opportunities for Natural Resource students to learn and apply new skills in a workplace and/or field experience setting. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 1 - 5
NATR 260 or Natural Sciences or Social Sciences
×Students may combine credit from NATR 260 Internship, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences Distribution courses for a minimum of 20 credits.
Learn from natural resource professionals. This class provides opportunities for Natural Resource students to learn and apply new skills in a workplace and/or field experience setting. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 1 - 5
Natural Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
A survey of humankind from a biological perspective. Includes human evolution and variation, hominid phylogeny and taxonomic theory, and the interaction between human biology, behavior, and culture. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Astronomy and Physics
Introduction to the universe, with emphasis on conceptual, as contrasted with mathematical, comprehension. Modern theories and observations; ideas concerning nature and evolution of galaxies; quasars, stars, black holes, planets, and solar system. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to physics intended for students not majoring in science. Topics include basic coverage of motion, force, energy, momentum, gravity, electricity and magnetism, light, waves, and relativity. Course includes one lab credit. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Mechanics. Working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry: one year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of mechanics and experiments in mechanics for physical science and engineering majors. One year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Biology
Introduction to the structural and functional characteristics of life. Surveys the evolutionary, ecological, cellular, and genetic biology of living organisms. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Includes process of science, overview of central ideas of biology (unity, diversity, interdependence, evolution), basic chemistry concepts, biomolecules, cell structure, cell physiology (including enzyme function, energetics, synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein), cell reproduction, introduction to genetics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. An introduction to evolutionary and ecological processes involved in the generation of our planet’s biodiversity, including a review of patterns and processes that influence the origin, evolution, distribution, and abundance of living things. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to structure and function of biomolecules, cells, and membranes; photosynthesis and respiration; molecular origin of life; phylogenetic and metabolic diversity of prokaryotes; and molecular genetics and genomics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Third course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to the study of the structure and function of plants and animals and how they cope with varying environmental conditions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Structure and function of the human body. Homeostasis; tissues; integumentary, skeletal, nervous, and muscular systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Includes microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, ecology, technological applications, microbial diseases of humans, immunology, public health, and medical control strategies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Hands-on approach utilizing facilities at local marine laboratory, field trips, and group projects to learn biological concepts relevant to marine biology. Emphasis on local organisms and ecology. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include cell structure and function, cellular energy metabolism, photosynthesis, genetics, and various facets of zoology, including anatomy and physiology, physiological ecology, and development. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include plant growth and survival, photosynthesis, and plant/ environmental interactions, evolution and diversity of living plants and animals, fundamentals of ecology, and conservation biology. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Botany
Introduction to general plant biology. Anatomy, physiology, and diversity of common protists, fungi, and plants, with emphasis on plants of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Chemistry
Introduction to chemistry covering selected principles and their effect on ourselves and our environment. Intended for non-science majors wishing to improve their science literacy and develop a long-term interest in science. Includes online lab. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
For individuals with little or no chemistry background. Atomic nature of matter, chemical bonding, periodic table, chemical reactions, phases of matter, solutions, equilibrium, reaction rates, and nuclear reactions. Includes laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents organic chemistry and biochemistry, with emphasis on functional groups, synthesis, and biochemical applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 6
For science and engineering majors. This course focuses on the fundamentals of chemical structures: atomic nature of matter, atomic structure, periodic trends, quantum concepts, molecular structure, and chemical reactions. Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Computer Science, Mathematics and Philosophy
Only five credits from this category can count toward the Natural Sciences distribution.
An introduction to fundamentals of computer science. Topics covered include algorithmic design; problem-solving techniques for computer programming; fundamentals of digital logic and computer organization; the role of the operating system; introductory programming methodology, including variables, assignment statements, control statements and subroutines (methods); programming paradigms; the compilation process; theoretical limits of computation; database structures; and social and ethical issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
A study of a variety of mathematical topics for non-science majors. The topics covered may differ between sections, but may include problem solving strategies, logic, set theory, number theory, mathematics of finance, probability and statistics, or geometry. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Analysis of linear, piecewise, quadratic, polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential, and logarithmic functions; their applications; and their graphs. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Conic sections; trigonometric functions; identities; inverse trigonometric functions; trigonometric equations; solutions of right triangles; laws of sines and cosines; vectors; polar coordinates; and complex numbers. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to methods and applications of elementary descriptive and inferential statistics; summarizing data graphically and numerically, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits, rates of change, graphing, differentiating, optimizing, polynomials, integration, logarithmic and exponential functions, implicit differentiation, business applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits and continuity; techniques and applications of derivatives of algebraic and transcendental functions; an introduction to antiderivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integration involving algebraic and transcendental functions. Applications of integration, including an introduction to differential equations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sequences and series, vector algebra and vector functions, functions of several variables, and partial derivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Methods topics include teaching the usage of technology. Math topics include algebra, geometry, measurement, and statistics. This course satisfies the quantitative skills requirement for the AA-DTA degree, provided that Math for Elementary Teachers I has also been completed satisfactorily. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The study of linear, quadratic, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and solving their related equations; systems of equations; matrices; linear programming (graphically); and the mathematics of finance. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to first-order symbolic logic. Topics include symbolizing, truth tables, truth trees, proofs for sentence and predicate logic with identity, conditional and indirect proof, and invalidating interpretations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Environmental Science
Scientific approach to understanding nature and scope of contemporary problems in our environment. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An interdisciplinary science course for both non-science majors and science students. Topics include the practice of environmental science, ecological principles, demographics, forest and wildlife resources, energy, planning, climate change, and pollution. Underlying scientific principles and practices, including the exploration and presentation of scientific uncertainty, are identified and related to societal issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores past and present contributions from major events and leaders to the sustainability movement. It combines the basic ways natural systems work with an understanding of economics, social equity, and ecology, followed by a critical analysis of the societal value and environmental impact of trends in sustainability. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Geodesy and mapping; introduction to atmospheric science, weather, climate, the oceans, hydrology, and the earth’s heat budget. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geology
A survey of Earth science including topics on rock and mineral characteristics, natural hazards, surface and groundwater environments, marine and continental environments, resources, land-forms, and global climate change. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to geology and survey of the processes that shape the surface of the earth, including water, wind, ice, and gravity. Topics covered include: plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, the geologic time scale, and concepts of mineralogy and petrology. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to historical geology and paleontology. Studies the formation and development through time of the solid Earth, atmosphere, and biosphere. Covers past movements and locations of the continents and interpretation of past environments as recorded in rock and fossil records as well as the history of life and how living organisms evolved over geologic time from the first single-celled organisms through the first invertebrates, vertebrates and plants, to the dinosaurs, and on to the rise of the mammals and early hominids. Includes the chance to examine fossils of early life, various invertebrates, fish, other prehistoric animals, and ancient plants. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores processes that form and shape the earth. These processes comprise a series of integrated systems that interact to produce the earth's continents, oceans, atmosphere, and life. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Nutrition
Basic principles of nutrition across the lifespan. Details the digestive process, the digestion and absorption of macro and micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Examines the role of nutrition in the maintenance of optimal health and disease prevention. Includes analysis of personal dietary habits and the components of a healthful diet. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Oceanography
General survey of geological, physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Includes history of oceanography, origin of ocean basins, plate tectonics, sea floor, waves, tides, currents, properties of water, composition of seawater, ocean productivity, pelagic environment, benthic environment, coastal processes, marine resources, and pollution. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly OCEA& 101, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Zoology
Introduction to the animal phyla. Studies of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution illustrate the diversity and unity of animal life. Emphasis on animals of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
Introduction for nonmajors to study of humans as biological and cultural beings. Includes surveys of archaeology and physical, cultural, and linguistic anthropology to examine human biological and cultural evolution, culture, and cultural systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces students to the key concepts and methods utilized by archaeologists in the excavation, analysis, and interpretation of a variety of material evidence left by ancient societies and cultures. Students will engage in a series of practical exercises (labs) to gain hands-on experience with a variety of artifacts and techniques commonly utilized within the discipline. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to study of recent cultures and societies. Focus on development of anthropological thought, language, culture, and broad patterns of cultural behavior. Includes cross-cultural perspectives on belief systems, economic behavior, family, kinship, and sociopolitical structures. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theories, methodologies, and principles used in the examination of the origins and development of religious beliefs and practices ranging from the Paleolithic through Modern Period. Topics range from gender rites to rites of passage, from ritual feasting to ritual fasting, from normative practices to taboos, sacred landscapes to profane utterances. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Economics
Promotes use of critical thinking to explore an individual's relationship to the supply and demand of goods and services. Tools of economic analysis are used to investigate management of environmental systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents economic theories used as tools for critical thinking to show how the U.S. economy operates. Emphasis on causes and consequences of unemployment and inflation and how they affect the well-being of Americans. The use of government spending, taxation, and the monetary system to promote full employment and stable prices will be examined. Explores role of energy and natural resources in shaping our economic future. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to fundamental economic concepts through contemporary social issues. Examine how societies deal with limited resources and social, cultural, and political responses to changing economic conditions. Recommended for those seeking a greater understanding of economics and contemporary issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Introduces concepts and techniques relating to the study of place and population, migration, economic, cultural and political organizations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
History
Historical comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from prehistory to ca.1200 CE. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from roughly 1200 CE to 1815. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative historical study of the world's major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from the beginning of industrialization to today’s global world. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States development from European settlements clinging tenuously on the Atlantic coast, or wayward outposts in the Southeast and Southwest, to a large, relatively unified nation between two oceans. We will examine the people of North America, Europe and Africa before colonialism and then address the social, cultural, economic and geographical determinants for colonization. We will explore how colonists began to see themselves separate from the mother country and how this resulted in revolution and a new nation. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States evolvement after the early years of nation building. The course will begin at the end of the Jacksonian Reform era, and end with the period of overseas expansion as the United States become a Great Power nation. This course will examine a number of crisis or issues of change, including civil war, western expansion, industrialization, immigration and urbanization. The student will learn how the people of the United States responded to crisis periods through reform movements such as Populism, unionization, Progressivism and imperialism. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The third part of the History of the United States examines the 20th century starting with World War I. In this period attention directed toward the development of the United States as a modern nation-state. We will cover the process industrialization, urbanization, and immigration that shaped the contours of the country right into the 21st century. Other topics of interest in the larger processes will be the Great Depression, Imperialism, World War I and II, the Cold War, environmentalism, nuclear war and terrorism. The course will end as the United States enters the post-Cold War era. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
With emphasis on the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Pacific Northwest (PNW) history proceeds through five main periods: indigenous peoples before European arrival, European arrival and exploration, European colonialism, industrial and urban development and immigration, and regional autonomy for the PNW, and considers various marginalized groups in society, including Native Americans, African Americans, and Asian Americans. Within these different historical periods, the course also examines social difference (e.g., ethnicity, race, and gender), economic and political organization, and cultural values. ENGL& 101 is strongly recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course will examine the environmental history of the Greater Pacific Northwest; the geographic area defined by the Columbia River watershed, including the coastal areas of present-day Oregon, extending north through the Salish Sea including into Canada. Topics covered will include natural history of the Pacific Northwest, the experience of native indigenous people as past, present, and on-going stewards of the land, the historical dynamic of the PNW as a meeting point of multiple cultures, and how historical cultural, social and economic values influence interaction with the environment as a set of changing relationships over time. It will also ask the class as a community and as individuals to reflect on how we understand and value our environment, how we interact with people and place, and how we engage with the past. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Students in this course will self-reflect on their own learning in relationship to indigenous pedagogies and explore if indigenous informed educational philosophies can represent a practice of healing. This course will examine The Assimilation Era, 1870s to 1970s, when governmental educational institutions were employed to disrupt and disappear the complex educational systems practiced by native people since time immemorial. The common practices of pre-colonial indigenous pedagogies will be illuminated and engaged to critically explore the colonizing pedagogy forced on students in government-sanctioned schools. Indigenous pedagogies have proven so resilient that they help to illustrate how indigenous people have continually renewed and revived their cultures through education despite the ongoing oppression of colonization. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly HIST 215, Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integrated Indigenous Studies
Introduction to American Indian and Indigenous Studies, a field of research grounded in the study of American Indian and indigenous peoples. This field emphasizes individual and community wellness, political self-determination, cultural revitalization and cross-cultural understanding. This course presents foundational terms, concepts and ideas and is recommended for all students but is particularly relevant for those who will pursue a degree in Native American Studies or Indigenous Studies or American Indian/Indigenous Studies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Political Science
Nature and function of political institutions in major national systems. ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Popular government in United States; theory and practice of national institutions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to the core issues and approaches used to understand the international system. The study of international relations broadly encompasses the fields of political economy and international security, both of which will be covered in this course, along with increasingly prominent cross-border issues that require global governance (countries working together to resolve problems). This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces us to political systems and governments in different countries. We will learn some core approaches, concepts, themes, and theories that will help us understand, analyze, and compare domestic politics and institutions seen around the world. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introductory course aimed at familiarizing the student with important ideas and ideologies that have shaped the contemporary world. Ideologies to be explored include Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism, Fascism, etc. We will explore the philosophical foundations that undergird different political and economic systems in the world. To promote a deeper understanding, we will also read a selection of original works of major contributors within the ideological traditions. ENGL& 101 is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Psychology
Introduction to science of behavior. Emphasis on biological foundations of behavior, cognition, learning, intelligence, motivation, memory, personality, and psychological disorders. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Scientific study of human growth, development, and change throughout life cycle. Physical, cognitive, social, personality, and other aspects of the individual examined through successive stages, from prenatal development until death. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Applies principles of science to study of abnormal behavior. Develop broad understanding of origin, characteristics, and classification of mental disorders from perspectives of psychological theory and research. Introduction to applied areas of diagnosis and assessment incorporated. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Cognitive Psychology explores the mind and brain as information processing systems. We will explore how the brain and mind are designed to collect and interpret data from the environment and then use that data to perceive the world, create memories, make decisions, plan actions, and act in the environment in such a way as to accomplish a required goal. This course explores the cognitive approach to psychology as it studies the topics of memory, attention, perception, problem solving, decision making, and language, among others. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Study of impact of social situations on individual thought processes, emotions, and behavior. Experimental investigation of interpersonal attraction, attitude formation, conformity, aggression, social perception, helping behavior, and prejudice. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Science
Introductory course to develop the analytical skills necessary to understand major developments in the contemporary world and to provide the basis for more advanced study in the field of world politics. The course deepens students’ understanding of globalization and the need for common solutions to global problems that transcend borders. This class will include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sociology
Human social behavior, social institutions, and society from sociological perspective. Includes introduction to sociological theory and research and application to topics such as social structure, socialization, deviance, inequality, and stratification. Completion of ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course explores the definition, causes, consequences, and solutions to social problems in U.S. society. We use sociological perspectives to examine some of the most critical problems facing society such as gun violence, racism, climate change, income inequality and poverty. The course examines how race, class, and gender inequalities contribute to and manifest as social problems. We also examine the roles of policymakers, social advocates, and the media in the process of defining social problems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Examines elements that create differences within society and exposes learners to a variety of cultural ideas that will lead to a better understanding of people who are different. Culture, ethnicity, lifestyle, religion, disabilities, age, and gender issues will be examined. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores gender and sexuality as organizing principles of identity, interactions, and social institutions. The class emphasizes the intersection of gender, sexuality, race, class, and age in shaping contemporary inequalities. Major theoretical approaches to gender and sexuality will also be introduced. Other topics include media, family, culture, relationships, work, and social movements. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores society’s relationship with food and agriculture. We examine practices of production, distribution, preparation, and consumption of food. From seeds to the waste stream, we learn what social, political, and economic factors shape our food system and our food choices. Our focus will be both global and local as we investigate the relationships between food, culture, inequality, and ecology. Food justice and food security are organizing themes of the course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to types of museums, with a focus on Indigenous museums and indigenized museums, and the roles of such institutions within society. This course explores historical and current issues of power structures forming narratives and representations about identity, race, ethnicity, culture, history, and gender within museums. Social justice and social change are important themes for this course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
NATR 260 or Natural Sciences or Social Sciences
×Students may combine credit from NATR 260 Internship, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences Distribution courses for a minimum of 20 credits.
Learn from natural resource professionals. This class provides opportunities for Natural Resource students to learn and apply new skills in a workplace and/or field experience setting. This class may include students from multiple sections.
Credits: 1 - 5
Natural Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
A survey of humankind from a biological perspective. Includes human evolution and variation, hominid phylogeny and taxonomic theory, and the interaction between human biology, behavior, and culture. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Astronomy and Physics
Introduction to the universe, with emphasis on conceptual, as contrasted with mathematical, comprehension. Modern theories and observations; ideas concerning nature and evolution of galaxies; quasars, stars, black holes, planets, and solar system. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to physics intended for students not majoring in science. Topics include basic coverage of motion, force, energy, momentum, gravity, electricity and magnetism, light, waves, and relativity. Course includes one lab credit. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of physics presented without use of calculus. Suitable for students majoring in technically oriented fields other than engineering or the physical sciences. Mechanics. Working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry: one year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Basic principles of mechanics and experiments in mechanics for physical science and engineering majors. One year high school physics is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Biology
Introduction to the structural and functional characteristics of life. Surveys the evolutionary, ecological, cellular, and genetic biology of living organisms. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Includes process of science, overview of central ideas of biology (unity, diversity, interdependence, evolution), basic chemistry concepts, biomolecules, cell structure, cell physiology (including enzyme function, energetics, synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein), cell reproduction, introduction to genetics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. An introduction to evolutionary and ecological processes involved in the generation of our planet’s biodiversity, including a review of patterns and processes that influence the origin, evolution, distribution, and abundance of living things. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to structure and function of biomolecules, cells, and membranes; photosynthesis and respiration; molecular origin of life; phylogenetic and metabolic diversity of prokaryotes; and molecular genetics and genomics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Third course in the three-quarter sequence of introductory biology for science students. Introduction to the study of the structure and function of plants and animals and how they cope with varying environmental conditions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Structure and function of the human body. Homeostasis; tissues; integumentary, skeletal, nervous, and muscular systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Includes microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, ecology, technological applications, microbial diseases of humans, immunology, public health, and medical control strategies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Hands-on approach utilizing facilities at local marine laboratory, field trips, and group projects to learn biological concepts relevant to marine biology. Emphasis on local organisms and ecology. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
First course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include cell structure and function, cellular energy metabolism, photosynthesis, genetics, and various facets of zoology, including anatomy and physiology, physiological ecology, and development. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Second course in the two-quarter sequence of introductory biology for forestry students. Topics include plant growth and survival, photosynthesis, and plant/ environmental interactions, evolution and diversity of living plants and animals, fundamentals of ecology, and conservation biology. Current research will be used to illustrate the scientific and social importance of these topics. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Botany
Introduction to general plant biology. Anatomy, physiology, and diversity of common protists, fungi, and plants, with emphasis on plants of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Chemistry
Introduction to chemistry covering selected principles and their effect on ourselves and our environment. Intended for non-science majors wishing to improve their science literacy and develop a long-term interest in science. Includes online lab. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
For individuals with little or no chemistry background. Atomic nature of matter, chemical bonding, periodic table, chemical reactions, phases of matter, solutions, equilibrium, reaction rates, and nuclear reactions. Includes laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents organic chemistry and biochemistry, with emphasis on functional groups, synthesis, and biochemical applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 6
For science and engineering majors. This course focuses on the fundamentals of chemical structures: atomic nature of matter, atomic structure, periodic trends, quantum concepts, molecular structure, and chemical reactions. Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Computer Science, Mathematics and Philosophy
Only five credits from this category can count toward the Natural Sciences distribution.
An introduction to fundamentals of computer science. Topics covered include algorithmic design; problem-solving techniques for computer programming; fundamentals of digital logic and computer organization; the role of the operating system; introductory programming methodology, including variables, assignment statements, control statements and subroutines (methods); programming paradigms; the compilation process; theoretical limits of computation; database structures; and social and ethical issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
A study of a variety of mathematical topics for non-science majors. The topics covered may differ between sections, but may include problem solving strategies, logic, set theory, number theory, mathematics of finance, probability and statistics, or geometry. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Analysis of linear, piecewise, quadratic, polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential, and logarithmic functions; their applications; and their graphs. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Conic sections; trigonometric functions; identities; inverse trigonometric functions; trigonometric equations; solutions of right triangles; laws of sines and cosines; vectors; polar coordinates; and complex numbers. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to methods and applications of elementary descriptive and inferential statistics; summarizing data graphically and numerically, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and linear regression. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits, rates of change, graphing, differentiating, optimizing, polynomials, integration, logarithmic and exponential functions, implicit differentiation, business applications. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Limits and continuity; techniques and applications of derivatives of algebraic and transcendental functions; an introduction to antiderivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integration involving algebraic and transcendental functions. Applications of integration, including an introduction to differential equations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sequences and series, vector algebra and vector functions, functions of several variables, and partial derivatives. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Methods topics include teaching the usage of technology. Math topics include algebra, geometry, measurement, and statistics. This course satisfies the quantitative skills requirement for the AA-DTA degree, provided that Math for Elementary Teachers I has also been completed satisfactorily. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The study of linear, quadratic, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and solving their related equations; systems of equations; matrices; linear programming (graphically); and the mathematics of finance. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to first-order symbolic logic. Topics include symbolizing, truth tables, truth trees, proofs for sentence and predicate logic with identity, conditional and indirect proof, and invalidating interpretations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Quantitative Skills, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Environmental Science
Scientific approach to understanding nature and scope of contemporary problems in our environment. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An interdisciplinary science course for both non-science majors and science students. Topics include the practice of environmental science, ecological principles, demographics, forest and wildlife resources, energy, planning, climate change, and pollution. Underlying scientific principles and practices, including the exploration and presentation of scientific uncertainty, are identified and related to societal issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores past and present contributions from major events and leaders to the sustainability movement. It combines the basic ways natural systems work with an understanding of economics, social equity, and ecology, followed by a critical analysis of the societal value and environmental impact of trends in sustainability. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Geodesy and mapping; introduction to atmospheric science, weather, climate, the oceans, hydrology, and the earth’s heat budget. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geology
A survey of Earth science including topics on rock and mineral characteristics, natural hazards, surface and groundwater environments, marine and continental environments, resources, land-forms, and global climate change. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to geology and survey of the processes that shape the surface of the earth, including water, wind, ice, and gravity. Topics covered include: plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, the geologic time scale, and concepts of mineralogy and petrology. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to historical geology and paleontology. Studies the formation and development through time of the solid Earth, atmosphere, and biosphere. Covers past movements and locations of the continents and interpretation of past environments as recorded in rock and fossil records as well as the history of life and how living organisms evolved over geologic time from the first single-celled organisms through the first invertebrates, vertebrates and plants, to the dinosaurs, and on to the rise of the mammals and early hominids. Includes the chance to examine fossils of early life, various invertebrates, fish, other prehistoric animals, and ancient plants. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Explores processes that form and shape the earth. These processes comprise a series of integrated systems that interact to produce the earth's continents, oceans, atmosphere, and life. Lab included. Field trips may be required. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Nutrition
Basic principles of nutrition across the lifespan. Details the digestive process, the digestion and absorption of macro and micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Examines the role of nutrition in the maintenance of optimal health and disease prevention. Includes analysis of personal dietary habits and the components of a healthful diet. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Oceanography
General survey of geological, physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Includes history of oceanography, origin of ocean basins, plate tectonics, sea floor, waves, tides, currents, properties of water, composition of seawater, ocean productivity, pelagic environment, benthic environment, coastal processes, marine resources, and pollution. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly OCEA& 101, Natural Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Zoology
Introduction to the animal phyla. Studies of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution illustrate the diversity and unity of animal life. Emphasis on animals of the Pacific Northwest. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences with Lab, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Sciences
CreditsCatalog #Subject 5Anthropology
Introduction for nonmajors to study of humans as biological and cultural beings. Includes surveys of archaeology and physical, cultural, and linguistic anthropology to examine human biological and cultural evolution, culture, and cultural systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces students to the key concepts and methods utilized by archaeologists in the excavation, analysis, and interpretation of a variety of material evidence left by ancient societies and cultures. Students will engage in a series of practical exercises (labs) to gain hands-on experience with a variety of artifacts and techniques commonly utilized within the discipline. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to study of recent cultures and societies. Focus on development of anthropological thought, language, culture, and broad patterns of cultural behavior. Includes cross-cultural perspectives on belief systems, economic behavior, family, kinship, and sociopolitical structures. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theories, methodologies, and principles used in the examination of the origins and development of religious beliefs and practices ranging from the Paleolithic through Modern Period. Topics range from gender rites to rites of passage, from ritual feasting to ritual fasting, from normative practices to taboos, sacred landscapes to profane utterances. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Economics
Promotes use of critical thinking to explore an individual's relationship to the supply and demand of goods and services. Tools of economic analysis are used to investigate management of environmental systems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Presents economic theories used as tools for critical thinking to show how the U.S. economy operates. Emphasis on causes and consequences of unemployment and inflation and how they affect the well-being of Americans. The use of government spending, taxation, and the monetary system to promote full employment and stable prices will be examined. Explores role of energy and natural resources in shaping our economic future. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to fundamental economic concepts through contemporary social issues. Examine how societies deal with limited resources and social, cultural, and political responses to changing economic conditions. Recommended for those seeking a greater understanding of economics and contemporary issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Geography
Introduces concepts and techniques relating to the study of place and population, migration, economic, cultural and political organizations. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
History
Historical comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from prehistory to ca.1200 CE. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative study of the world’s major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from roughly 1200 CE to 1815. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Comparative historical study of the world's major civilizations (African, Asian, Middle East, European, and American) from the beginning of industrialization to today’s global world. There will be an emphasis on material existence and understanding value systems. We will delve into how these are expressed in different political, social, economic, cultural, and religious systems as well as in literature and art. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States development from European settlements clinging tenuously on the Atlantic coast, or wayward outposts in the Southeast and Southwest, to a large, relatively unified nation between two oceans. We will examine the people of North America, Europe and Africa before colonialism and then address the social, cultural, economic and geographical determinants for colonization. We will explore how colonists began to see themselves separate from the mother country and how this resulted in revolution and a new nation. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
United States evolvement after the early years of nation building. The course will begin at the end of the Jacksonian Reform era, and end with the period of overseas expansion as the United States become a Great Power nation. This course will examine a number of crisis or issues of change, including civil war, western expansion, industrialization, immigration and urbanization. The student will learn how the people of the United States responded to crisis periods through reform movements such as Populism, unionization, Progressivism and imperialism. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The third part of the History of the United States examines the 20th century starting with World War I. In this period attention directed toward the development of the United States as a modern nation-state. We will cover the process industrialization, urbanization, and immigration that shaped the contours of the country right into the 21st century. Other topics of interest in the larger processes will be the Great Depression, Imperialism, World War I and II, the Cold War, environmentalism, nuclear war and terrorism. The course will end as the United States enters the post-Cold War era. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
With emphasis on the states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Pacific Northwest (PNW) history proceeds through five main periods: indigenous peoples before European arrival, European arrival and exploration, European colonialism, industrial and urban development and immigration, and regional autonomy for the PNW, and considers various marginalized groups in society, including Native Americans, African Americans, and Asian Americans. Within these different historical periods, the course also examines social difference (e.g., ethnicity, race, and gender), economic and political organization, and cultural values. ENGL& 101 is strongly recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course will examine the environmental history of the Greater Pacific Northwest; the geographic area defined by the Columbia River watershed, including the coastal areas of present-day Oregon, extending north through the Salish Sea including into Canada. Topics covered will include natural history of the Pacific Northwest, the experience of native indigenous people as past, present, and on-going stewards of the land, the historical dynamic of the PNW as a meeting point of multiple cultures, and how historical cultural, social and economic values influence interaction with the environment as a set of changing relationships over time. It will also ask the class as a community and as individuals to reflect on how we understand and value our environment, how we interact with people and place, and how we engage with the past. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Students in this course will self-reflect on their own learning in relationship to indigenous pedagogies and explore if indigenous informed educational philosophies can represent a practice of healing. This course will examine The Assimilation Era, 1870s to 1970s, when governmental educational institutions were employed to disrupt and disappear the complex educational systems practiced by native people since time immemorial. The common practices of pre-colonial indigenous pedagogies will be illuminated and engaged to critically explore the colonizing pedagogy forced on students in government-sanctioned schools. Indigenous pedagogies have proven so resilient that they help to illustrate how indigenous people have continually renewed and revived their cultures through education despite the ongoing oppression of colonization. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Formerly HIST 215, Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Integrated Indigenous Studies
Introduction to American Indian and Indigenous Studies, a field of research grounded in the study of American Indian and indigenous peoples. This field emphasizes individual and community wellness, political self-determination, cultural revitalization and cross-cultural understanding. This course presents foundational terms, concepts and ideas and is recommended for all students but is particularly relevant for those who will pursue a degree in Native American Studies or Indigenous Studies or American Indian/Indigenous Studies. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Political Science
Nature and function of political institutions in major national systems. ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Popular government in United States; theory and practice of national institutions. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introduction to the core issues and approaches used to understand the international system. The study of international relations broadly encompasses the fields of political economy and international security, both of which will be covered in this course, along with increasingly prominent cross-border issues that require global governance (countries working together to resolve problems). This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course introduces us to political systems and governments in different countries. We will learn some core approaches, concepts, themes, and theories that will help us understand, analyze, and compare domestic politics and institutions seen around the world. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Introductory course aimed at familiarizing the student with important ideas and ideologies that have shaped the contemporary world. Ideologies to be explored include Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism, Fascism, etc. We will explore the philosophical foundations that undergird different political and economic systems in the world. To promote a deeper understanding, we will also read a selection of original works of major contributors within the ideological traditions. ENGL& 101 is recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Psychology
Introduction to science of behavior. Emphasis on biological foundations of behavior, cognition, learning, intelligence, motivation, memory, personality, and psychological disorders. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Scientific study of human growth, development, and change throughout life cycle. Physical, cognitive, social, personality, and other aspects of the individual examined through successive stages, from prenatal development until death. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Applies principles of science to study of abnormal behavior. Develop broad understanding of origin, characteristics, and classification of mental disorders from perspectives of psychological theory and research. Introduction to applied areas of diagnosis and assessment incorporated. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Cognitive Psychology explores the mind and brain as information processing systems. We will explore how the brain and mind are designed to collect and interpret data from the environment and then use that data to perceive the world, create memories, make decisions, plan actions, and act in the environment in such a way as to accomplish a required goal. This course explores the cognitive approach to psychology as it studies the topics of memory, attention, perception, problem solving, decision making, and language, among others. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Study of impact of social situations on individual thought processes, emotions, and behavior. Experimental investigation of interpersonal attraction, attitude formation, conformity, aggression, social perception, helping behavior, and prejudice. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Social Science
Introductory course to develop the analytical skills necessary to understand major developments in the contemporary world and to provide the basis for more advanced study in the field of world politics. The course deepens students’ understanding of globalization and the need for common solutions to global problems that transcend borders. This class will include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Sociology
Human social behavior, social institutions, and society from sociological perspective. Includes introduction to sociological theory and research and application to topics such as social structure, socialization, deviance, inequality, and stratification. Completion of ENGL& 101 or concurrent enrollment recommended. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This course explores the definition, causes, consequences, and solutions to social problems in U.S. society. We use sociological perspectives to examine some of the most critical problems facing society such as gun violence, racism, climate change, income inequality and poverty. The course examines how race, class, and gender inequalities contribute to and manifest as social problems. We also examine the roles of policymakers, social advocates, and the media in the process of defining social problems. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
Examines elements that create differences within society and exposes learners to a variety of cultural ideas that will lead to a better understanding of people who are different. Culture, ethnicity, lifestyle, religion, disabilities, age, and gender issues will be examined. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores gender and sexuality as organizing principles of identity, interactions, and social institutions. The class emphasizes the intersection of gender, sexuality, race, class, and age in shaping contemporary inequalities. Major theoretical approaches to gender and sexuality will also be introduced. Other topics include media, family, culture, relationships, work, and social movements. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
This class explores society’s relationship with food and agriculture. We examine practices of production, distribution, preparation, and consumption of food. From seeds to the waste stream, we learn what social, political, and economic factors shape our food system and our food choices. Our focus will be both global and local as we investigate the relationships between food, culture, inequality, and ecology. Food justice and food security are organizing themes of the course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
An introduction to types of museums, with a focus on Indigenous museums and indigenized museums, and the roles of such institutions within society. This course explores historical and current issues of power structures forming narratives and representations about identity, race, ethnicity, culture, history, and gender within museums. Social justice and social change are important themes for this course. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Social Sciences, Elective)
Credits: 5
The following courses are recommended to fulfill this requirement: General Biology, Cell Biology Emphasis (BIOL& 160), Field Methods in Ecology (BIOL 299), Introduction to Botany (BOT 101), Chemical Concepts (CHEM& 110), Introduction to Chemistry (CHEM& 121), Introduction to Economics (ECON 101), Survey of Environmental Science (ENVS& 100), Introduction to Physical Geology (GEOL& 101), Natural Resources Internship (NATR 260) or Introduction to Oceanography (OCEA& 100).
Your personal educational plan will vary based on many factors including:
- The quarter you begin
- How many classes/credits you plan to take in each quarter
- Your math and English placement; Learn more about placement options by visiting the Assessment and Placement website.
- If you start in our Transitional Studies program