Riverland Community College

This introductory course covers the basic principles of astronomy and applies them to the study of our solar system and the life cycles of stars. Topics include motions in the night sky, gravitation, light and optics, solar system formation, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, the Sun, and stellar evolution.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)   

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This is a one-semester course is designed for students who do not plan to major in science. Emphasis is placed on the major biological principles and their relationship to man and ecology.  Topics studied include the scientific method, characteristics of life, biological chemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, classification and ecology. 

      MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab) 

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course covers general ecological principles related to human impacts on the environment. Environmental problems including population, land use, resources, energy, water pollution, and air pollution will be addressed.         

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 10/PE); (3 Cr - 2 lect, 1 lab) 

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This course is designed for students who do not plan to major in science. The primary, organizing themes of the course are centered upon learning the basic concepts and theories of life science integrated with issues of current interest and analyzing the current issues from the perspective of ethical and civic responsibility. Biological concepts and theories included in the course are the scientific method, biological molecules, cell biology, evolution, classification, genomics and genetics, ecology and environmental issues, and emerging infectious diseases.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 9/EC); (3 Cr - 3 lect, 0 lab)  

Also satisfies: Goal 9 - Ethical & Civic Responsibility

This course is an introductory study of human biology. The scientific method, biological molecules, and cell biology will be studied as a foundation to learning human histology (the study of tissues) and organ systems. Each human organ system will be investigated to develop an understanding of its contribution to the human body. Current health and social issues, and other diseases related to human biology, will also be studied.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This honors section of Human Biology is an enriched study of the human body and how the organ systems interact with each other while maintaining homeostasis. Labs will utilize a variety of delivery modes that will emphasize inquiry and the use of the scientific method whenever possible. The study of biological molecules, and cell biology will serve as a foundation to learning human histology (the study of tissues) and organ systems. Current health and social issues, and other diseases related to human biology, will also be studied. Honors courses emphasize independent inquiry, informed discussion, and direct application within small transformative classes and feature close working relationships with instructors.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is designed to explore aspects of biology that apply to women. The course examines the following areas: male and female reproductive systems and reproductive cycles, sexually transmitted diseases, cancers and other diseases of the reproductive system, pregnancy, aging and nutrition. Women’s health issues from a historical, cultural, and current perspective will also be explored.

• MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 7A/HD);

• (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 7 - Human Diversity

This introductory course will apply the principles and theories of biology and chemistry to the study of forensic science. The focus of forensic science is the crime lab using scientific principles and techniques in order to analyze evidence that would be admissible in court.  An orientation to crime scene investigation and evidence collection will lead to analysis of the following:  Impressions, drugs and powders, blood, serology, hair, questioned documents, firearms/tool marks, bones, glass, paint, fibers, and DNA. This course is activity-based and the student participates in a variety of lab and lab-like experiences demonstrating the principles covered in the course and illuminating how scientific experimentation and research are performed and interpreted.

(MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab) 

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is primarily intended for non-science majors. The major, organizing themes of the course are centered upon learning the basic concepts and theories of biology, with major emphasis placed on gaining an understanding of the microbial world, and how microbes impact humans and their environment. Topics of study will include a survey of microorganisms, an examination of the human microbiome, the microbial role in industry, food production and biotechnology, bioterrorism and the local and global threat of infectious disease.

• MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 10 PE)

• (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This course explores the role of nutrition in promoting, maintaining, and improving the health of the human body. Traditional aspects of nutrition will be studied, as well as emerging issues and nutritional controversies. This course will focus on the science of nutrition, including nutrients and nutritional needs over the lifespan. This course will also cover the application of the principles of nutrition as they relate to individual food choices, health behaviors, public health, wellness, obesity, eating disorders, the use of supplements and botanicals, and the prevention of chronic disease. Issues facing society including food safety and sustainability will also be covered.

      MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr - 3 lect, 0 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is the first semester of a two-semester course sequence in general biology. Topics include the scientific method, characteristics of life, biological chemistry, cell and membrane structure and function, enzymes, metabolism, mitosis, meiosis, genetics, the structure of DNA, and protein synthesis. This course includes laboratory exercises and experimentation that illustrate core principles covered in the course. CHEM 1121 or 1201 or 1210 is recommended prior to taking this course. MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is the second semester of a two-semester course sequence in general biology. Topics include evolutionary biology, a survey of biological diversity, animal structure and function, plant structure and function, and ecology. This course includes laboratory exercises and experimentation that illustrate core principles covered in the course. Prerequisite: BIOL 1091. MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 10/PE); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This course covers basic ecological principles including the characterization of communities, ecosystems and biomes, successional change, adaptation and natural selection, intra and interspecies interactions, population dynamics and carrying capacity, biogeochemical cycles, ecosystem energy flow, and the distribution of biological diversity.  Inherent to the course will also be consideration of humanity’s impact upon and dependence on the Earth’s global ecosystem.  Prerequisite: BIOL 1091, BIOL 1092 recommended

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect., 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is the first semester of a two-semester course in human anatomy and physiology. Basic concepts in biology are covered in the first part of the course including the scientific method, biological chemistry, cell structure and function, metabolism, cell division, genetics, and DNA structure and function. The second part of the course includes histology and the integumentary system, as well as the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.  Prerequisite: CHEM 1121 or 1202.

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is the second semester of a two-semester course in human anatomy and physiology. Topics include the nervous system, endocrine system, cardiovascular system, the lymphatic and immune system, digestive system, urinary system, and the reproductive system. Acid-base and fluid balances, human embryology and development are also covered.   Prerequisite:  BIOL 2021. 

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This introductory course is designed to provide an overview of major concepts in microbiology. Thematic areas to be studied include prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function, prokaryotic metabolism (including growth and nutrition), microbial genetics, microbial classification, isolation, and identification, and microbial roles in the disease process, environment and industry. Laboratory exercises will stress the microscopic study of microorganisms and the application of culturing and identification techniques. An emphasis will be placed on safe laboratory practice. Prerequisites: BIOL 1091 or BIOL 2021 and CHEM 1121 or CHEM 1202
MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (4 Cr – 2 lect, 2 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course presents the fundamental concepts of classical transmission genetics and modern molecular genetics. Topics include cell reproduction, Mendelian genetics, linkage and recombination, chromosomal variations, molecular genetics, biotechnology and population and evolutionary genetics. Prerequisite: Biol 1091

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 2/CT); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This is a laboratory science course for students not intending to major in chemistry or science.  Topics include atomic theory, and structure, chemical bonding, chemical accounting (mass and volume relationships), acids and bases, as well as an introduction to organic and biological compounds.

MnTC (Goal 3/NS, and 10/PE); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This is a laboratory science course covering the principles of general, organic and biological chemistry with emphasis on chemical applications in biological systems.  Topics include the scientific method, atomic theory, chemical bonding, organic functional groups, biological chemicals, and metabolic processes.

      MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 10/PE); (3 Cr - 2 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This is the first course of a two-semester sequence in general inorganic chemistry, Atomic Theory, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, chemical bonding, molecular structure, atomic structure, periodicity, and the gas phase.  This course is for students intending to transfer or pursue Bachelor’s preparation and/or careers in chemistry and the other physical sciences, engineering and health sciences (medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, four-year nursing). Prerequisite: Math 1110 or higher or concurrent registration in Math 1110 or higher.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 10/PE); (5 Cr – 3 lect, 2 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This is the second course of a two-semester sequence in general inorganic chemistry. Content includes properties of solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, thermodynamics and electrochemistry.  This course is for students intending to transfer or pursue Bachelor’s preparation and/or careers in chemistry and the other physical sciences, engineering and health sciences (medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, four-year nursing). Prerequisite: MATH 1110 or higher and CHEM 1201 or CHEM 1210.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 2/CT); (5 Cr – 3 lect, 2 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This honors section of General Chemistry I is an enriched study of chemistry that includes a guided inquiry-based lab and deeper understanding of scientific experimentation.  This course is also the first course of a two semester sequence in general inorganic chemistry, Atomic Theory, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, chemical bonding, molecular structure, and atomic structure, periodicity, and the gas phase.  Students will also develop critical thinking necessary to evaluate basic scientific publications and determine the validity of the research reported.  Honors courses emphasize independent inquiry, informed discussion making, and direct application of course content.  Unlike CHEM 1201, experiments performed in this course will cover multiple concepts and relate to real-world concepts to better incorporate a real-world laboratory experience.  This course is for students  intending to transfer or pursue Bachelor’s preparation and/or careers in chemistry and the other physical sciences, engineering and health sciences (medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, four-year nursing). Prerequisite: Math 1110 or higher or concurrent registration in Math 1110 or higher.

MnTC (Goals 3/NS and 10/PE); (5 Cr – 3 lect, 2 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This course covers the development of the earth throughout its history and relates to processes observed today.  Special emphasis is placed on the study of plate tectonics, volcanoes, earthquakes, geologic structures, rock types, weathering and erosion, glaciation, and much more.  Also studied is the interdependence between geologic processes and the environment with emphasis given to how human activities alter climate and other aspects of the earth system, plus how people cope with changing environmental conditions.

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 10/PE); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)   

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This course is an introduction to global physical geography which systematically examines the spatial patterns and interrelationships among physical elements at Earth’s surface. Students study Earth’s physical environment, its systems, and the physical processes that drive them including weather, climate, natural vegetation, soil, and various landforms. Current environmental issues will be discussed and a scientific foundation provided for understanding global warming, geoengineering of weather, and geospatial technologies among others. These topics are not only discussed in groups but also explored in a hands-on manner with in-field exercises and lab-like activities.

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 10/PE); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This honors section of Physical Geography is an enriched study of global physical geography which systematically examines the spatial patterns and interrelationships among physical elements at Earth’s surface. Students study Earth’s physical environment, its systems, and the physical processes that drive them including weather, climate, natural vegetation, soil, and various landforms. Current environmental issues will be discussed and a scientific foundation provided for understanding global warming, geoengineering of weather, and geospatial technologies among others. These topics are not only discussed in groups but also explored in a hands-on manner with in-field exercises and lab-like activities. Honors courses emphasize independent inquiry, informed discussion, and direct application within small transformative classes which feature close working relationships with instructors.

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 10/PE); (3 Cr – 3 lect, 0 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This course serves as an introduction to understanding the basic concepts of meteorology and is designed for non-science majors.  Students will explore the weather processes in-depth and its impact on society through relevant, historical, current, and scientifically important events.  Atmospheric concepts are emphasized to equip students with skills and knowledge to explain a wide range of severe weather including tropical cyclones, midlatitude cyclones, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, lightning, flooding, and snowstorms. This course includes a lab component where students will use real-time and climatological data to analyze, predict, and mitigate severe weather events.  Prerequisites:  None.

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 10/PE); (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment

This is a one-semester survey course covering basic physics concepts and laws that govern everyday physical phenomena. This course is intended for students with no previous physics experience. Topics include mechanics, properties of matter, heat, waves, and electricity. Students will learn to apply basic physics principles through problem solving and laboratory experiments. The algebra skills required for this course are met by two years of high school algebra.

• Prerequisite: Student meets placement criteria for MATH 1050 (Math for Liberal Arts) or a higher-level math course.

• Corequisite: Students who do not meet math placement criteria will be required to take PHYS 0010 concurrently with PHYS 1000.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT); (3 Cr – 2 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is the first semester of the algebra-based introductory physics sequence typically taken by students majoring in a life-science or pre-professional field. The emphasis of this course is on understanding basic physics principles related to mechanics and applying those principles to the solution of physics-related problems. Laboratory work is an essential part of the course.

• Prerequisite: MATH 1110 (College Algebra) or appropriate placement score.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT);

• (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is a continuation of PHYS 1501 College Physics I. The topics covered are thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and optics.

• Prerequisite: PHYS 1501.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT);

• (4 Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This is the first semester of the calculus-based introductory physics sequence typically required for students majoring in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and other physical science disciplines. The emphasis of this course is on developing the problem-solving skills needed to solve physics problems while understanding the underlying physics principles. The first semester of the physics sequence covers mechanics. Laboratory is an essential component of the course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in MATH 1210 Calculus and Analytic Geometry I. Students who have successfully completed high school calculus may be allowed to take the course with the instructor’s permission.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT);

• (5 Cr – 4 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is a continuation of PHYS 2201 Classical Physics I. The topics covered are heat, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and optics.

• Prerequisites: PHYS 2201 Classical Physics I and MATH 1210 Calculus & Analytic Geometry I.

• MnTC (Goal 3/NS and 2/CT);

• (5 Cr – 4 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This one semester course is designed to introduce students to key concepts in biology and chemistry using an integrated approach.  Students will learn basic biological and chemical terminology and the connection between biology and chemistry in areas such as the characteristics of life, cell structure and function, metabolism, biotechnology, and genetics.  Enrollment in this course is limited to elementary education majors only.

MnTC (Goal 2/CT and 3/NS); (4Cr – 3 lect, 1 lab)

Also satisfies: Goal 2 - Critical Thinking

This course is designed as an integrative approach to the exploration of key concepts in earth science and physics including the earth’s physical environment, its systems, and the physical processes that drive them. Combining action and analysis, participants will design and conduct experiments in the areas of space science, motion and force, energy, waves, meteorology and climate, earth materials, surface environments, electricity, and sources and production of energy. The instructor and course participants will also facilitate discussions of human/environment interactions such as the impacts of climate change, weather modification, and land-use and land-cover change. Enrollment in this course is limited to elementary education majors only. 

MnTC (Goal 3/NS and Goal 10/PE); (3 Cr - 2 lect, 1 lab) 

Also satisfies: Goal 10 - People and the Environment