DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS, NATURAL AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
MATHEMATICS COURSES
DNP-MAT/1010 - Algebra
This beginning-level algebra course is designed to help students obtain fundamental knowledge of basic algebra. Students will learn several skills such as: the simplifying of arithmetic and algebraic expressions (exponential expressions, polynomials, rational expressions and radical expressions), to solve equations and inequalities including linear equations and quadratic equations and to graph and analyze linear equations. This course satisfies the Mathematics Proficiency Requirement.
Prerequisite: Placement
DNP-MAT/1020 - Finite Mathematics
This course explores the main concepts of finite mathematics including: trigonometric functions, mathematic functions, the function concept, polynomials, exponentials, logarithms and mathematical induction. This course satisfies the Mathematics Proficiency Requirement.
Prerequisite: Placement
DNP-MAT/1100 - Fundamentals of Calculus
A discussion of various mathematical topics for the calculation of typical applied science measures and the calculation and representation of special geometry. The following will be discussed: matrices, lines, plans, vectors, algebraic systems, equations, one and more variables functions with their graphic representation and derivatives and mass geometry elements.
Prerequisite: DNP-MAT/1010 Algebra
DNP-MAT/1200 - Calculus I
Explores important topics such as: the meaning, computation and applications of the derivative and the definite integral and the fundamental theorem of calculus. This course satisfies the Mathematics Proficiency Requirement.
Prerequisite: DNP-MAT/1100 Fundamentals of Calculus
DNP-MAT/2000 - Introduction to Statistics
This course serves as an introduction to statistics and probability and includes crossovers into the environmental sciences. This course will discuss: methods of graphic analysis, hypothesis testing and the introduction of common probability distributions.
Prerequisite: DNP-MAT/1020 Finite Mathematics
DNP-MAT/2200 - Calculus II
This course covers important topics such as: methods of integration, series, applications of integration, indeterminate forms and improper integrals, the differentiation and integration of logarithmic, exponential and trigonometric functions and indeterminate forms.
Prerequisite: DNP-MAT/1200 Calculus I
DNP-MAT/2500 - Basic Quantitative Methods
This course on quantitative methods and Excel model building used extensively in the analysis of business decisions is offered for students not familiar with these concepts. The aim is to equip students with the mathematical and model building skills needed to successfully complete the core courses in the first year of the MBA Program. Topics covered in the quantitative methods course include manipulation of mathematical expressions, an introduction to statistics and probability and basic Excel model building.
Prerequisite: DNP-MAT/1010 Algebra and DNP-COM/1000 Microcomputer Applications I
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PHYSICS COURSES
DNP-PHY/1010 - Introductory Physics I
This course serves as an introduction to concepts in the field of physics such as: mass-energy relationships, Newtonian dynamics, the laws of thermodynamics, work and conservation of energy and the kinetic properties of matter.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-PHY/1020 - Introductory Physics II
A continuation of DNP-PHY/1010. Will discuss: electromagnetic waves, electric and magnetic fields and atomic physics.
Prerequisite: DNP-PHY/1010 Introductory Physics I
DNP-PHY/1030 - The Physics of Sound and Light
Sound and light, phenomena which are considered the primary media for artistic expression, have held an important role for scientific investigation into the world of nature. This course, through the study of wave motion and vibration, will treat the various theories concerning light and sound. The study of sound waves and musical tones will be included. The study of light surveys the various theories from Galileo, Newton and Huygens to Einstein’s theory of relativity and quantum theory. A paper will be required.
Prerequisite: A background in physics is not required.
DNP-PHY/2000 - Building Physics
This course provides the necessary basic knowledge for an analysis of buildings’ behavior with regards to fluid dynamics, thermal and energetic aspects. Through the use of the tools acquired, students will be able to investigate the attainment and maintenance of thermal comfort over time and in various climatic conditions. This applies to various building forms, structures and materials.
Prerequisite: Environmental Architecture majors
DNP-PHY/3100 - Optimization of illumination (or natural lighting) in the design of modern architecture
Examines the role of light in physical and geometric optics with emphasis on the study of illumination. This will familiarize students with how light and shade can give rise to artistic expression. Methods specific to optimization such as the graphical method, the simplex method and linear programming will all be discussed. This course will extend into the design-related aspects of modern architecture with reference to illumination. A paper will be required.
Prerequisite: A preliminary background in physics and mathematics is desirable.
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NATURAL SCIENCE COURSES
DNP-SCI/1010 - Current Issues in the Natural Sciences
This course provides a holistic and comprehensive overview of important environmental issues. Students, through the exploration of these issues and from the discussion of many different points of view, will form a solid and valuable foundation of environmental knowledge. This will aid them in making crucial decisions that will shape the future of their society.
Prerequisite: No specific scientific background is assumed
DNP-SCI/1020 - A History of Scientific Discovery
A survey of scientific discoveries through the 20th century. This course begins with the discovery of radioactivity in the 1890s and finishes with topics dealt with today, such as stem-cell research and the genome project. The twentieth century was witness to radical transformations in technology and modern science, as well as to the specialization and fragmentation of many fields of science. Topics discussed include: the evolution of physics and biology, the emergence of environmentalism, major conceptual developments, the interaction between science and society as well as the impact that war has had on both.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/1200 - Introduction to Biology
This course serves as an introduction to various biology-related topics such as: basic statistics, biotechnology, bioenergetics, the chemistry of life, cell-structure functions and evolution.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/1300 - Introduction to Botany
The basic concepts and aspects to understand life and growing of plants and flowers are taught in this course. However, the approach is not purely theoretical but is aimed at transferring knowledge that can be used for practical purpose within the scope of gardening design, installation and maintenance.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/1520 - Natural Environments: the Atmosphere
This course is an introduction to the themes of weather and climate. Students will examine weather variations, climates of the world, severe storms and hurricanes, climatic change and the impact that these factors have on society.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/1540 - The Ocean World
This course covers a vast range of ocean-related themes such as waves, tides and the physics and chemistry of water. Emphasis will be placed on the biology and ecology of oceanic plants and animals. A second part of this course will
concentrate on less scientific issues such as mythology and exploration (in particular, Ancient Greek and Roman myths and the discovery of new worlds through the sea).
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/2100 - Geology
This course surveys the main principles in the following fields: geophysics, geochemistry and geology. Topics include: glaciers, water, volcanoes, mountain building, earthquakes, weathering, minerals and rocks. Special emphasis will be placed on the various interactions between human beings and the earth.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/2540 - World Regional Geography
A survey of the historical, economic, environmental and organizational qualities of the countries of the world through geographic themes and concepts. Discussion will then lead to developed countries in North America, Europe and Australia as well as developing countries in Central and South America. Studies of the ex-Soviet Union, the Middle East and Africa will also be included.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/2700, DSE-ENV/2700 - Natural Resources
A discussion of natural resources and their management. Students will explore themes such as: the social implications of exploiting the environment, renewable resources, sustainability, and the various types of natural resources, including fossil fuels.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/3100 - The Marine Biology of the Mediterranean
This course studies the Mediterranean Sea in relation to oceanography, marine biology and marine ecology. Many important topics will be discussed such as: the diversity of life in the Mediterranean, marine communities and their interconnections, the discovery and history of life in the Mediterranean, anthropogenic impacts on marine communities and the means by which scientists study the marine environment and its inhabitants.
Prerequisite: DNP-SCI/1200 Introduction to Biology
DNP-SCI/3300 - Organic floriculture
This course is aimed at supplying general and practical information on organic methods of cultivating flowers, fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants with reduced environmental impacts. Biological pesticides and integrated approaches to pest control as well as natural fertilizing techniques are the main subjects of this course.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/3400 - Landscape ecology
This course deals with the holistic interactions between landscape and the structural and dynamic characteristics of the eco-system. The influence of vegetation and animal development on landscape formation is analyzed. Reversely, the human activity modifying landscapes and its influence on biodiversity, animal life, and environmental quality are also described and discussed.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-SCI/4100, DSE-ENV/4100 - Management of Environmental Pollutants
Studies approaches to regulating hazardous chemicals in air, water and food. The course is built around the three general types of interventions that have been practiced by regulatory agencies over the last three decades: shifting to safer technologies; issuing licenses to pollute in the form of industrial emission permits; and setting standards for air, water and food contaminants. The scientific controversies in setting standards and issuing permits are presented vis-à-vis the legislative mandates, the need for benefit-cost accounting, and scientific uncertainty. The strengths and weaknesses of the command-and-control system versus the incentive-based system with regard to industrial enterprises are also discussed. Emphasizes recent efforts to decrease government involvement in corporate environmental management and to shift towards an incentive-based regulatory system. While focus is on public policies in the United States, international comparisons with Western European and Eastern European countries are included.
Prerequisite: 90 credits
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COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES
DNP-COM/1000 - Microcomputer Applications I
An introductory course covering the most commonly used microcomputer applications: Introduction to Microcomputers, Microcomputer applications, Windows Operating System, Word processing, Spreadsheets, PowerPoint, Disk operating systems.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-COM/1100 - Microcomputer Applications II
This course is intended to give students a deeper knowledge of the most commonly used microcomputer applications with emphasis on the needs of the business environment. Programming concepts, Introduction to Procedure-oriented programming, Programming in C, Data types, Variables, Operators, I/O functions, Control structures, Arrays, Functions, Structures, Unions
Prerequisite: DNP-COM 1000/Microcomputer Applications I
DNP-COM/1500 - Introduction to Web Design
This course provides students with a broad overview and introduction to web design. Students learn basic HTML and create their own sites using web design software. The course covers basic graphic design and programming principles and server technology used for web design.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-COM/2000 - Computer Science I
This is an introduction to problem-solving using computers with emphasis on learning to program in Java. Experience is acquired through hands-on labs and several programming assignments in Java. Introduction to Object-oriented programming, programming in Java, Arrays, Recursion, Classes, Objects, Packages and Enterprises, Exceptions, Applets, Threads, Swings.
Prerequisite: DNP-COM 1100
DNP-COM/2050 - Computer Science II
This is a continuation of DNP-COM 2000. The course also introduces other concepts central to the field, including data representation, algorithms, complexity, computer architecture, Boolean logic and data structures, and some of the
social, legal, and ethical issues related to computers. Interactive Computer graphics, Graphics primitives, Geometric transformations, Window and viewport, 3D-Graphics.
Prerequisite: DNP-COM1100 / Mathematics.
DNP-COM/2100 - Management Information Systems
This course covers the structure, management, and development of business information system; the nature of business information, computer hardware and computer software; systems analysis; and the development and introduction of business information systems, as well as the impact of technological innovations.
Prerequisite: DNP-COM 1000
DNP-COM/2200 - Introduction to Digital Imaging and Visualization
Nowadays, computer-generated images are being used in almost every field of study in the Arts and Sciences, ranging from online image databases of museum collections to visualizations of weather systems. This course offers an introduction to current techniques for image acquisition and manipulation and data visualization methods. Students will learn how to create, modify, and evaluate images of many different types. Topics include digital image representations, the human visual system, lighting and rendering, etc. For the assignments, students are encouraged to produce images relevant to their major.
Prerequisite: DNP-COM 2050
DNP-COM/2400 - Introduction to CAD
An introduction to the various research themes and theoretical concepts of computing and design. Will examine the practical application of these concepts and theories in drafting, electronic publishing, modeling and design.
Prerequisite: None
DNP-COM/3000 - Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
An introduction to one of the most widely used computer tools in environmental science. Used for storage, display, and analysis of spatially related data, this digitized mapping system is of primary importance in fields like land use planning, wildlife management, conservation biology, pollution monitoring, and geological resources. Students learn the ArcView system and become experienced in its use with a variety of data.
Prerequisite: DNP-COM 1500 or permission of instructor, and a working knowledge of Windows
DNP-COM/3050 - Advanced Spatial Analysis with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Advanced spatial analysis includes practical methods used in environmental, social, and technical disciplines to define spatial patterns, detect temporal changes, and make predictions. The course includes practical case studies from environmental data assessment, hydrologic modelling, environmental monitoring, and groundwater risk assessment. Topics include: GIS data gathering and compilation; principles of spatial analysis and reprocessing; 3-D modelling; preparation of maps and GIS reports.
Prerequisite: DNP-COM 3000 or practical knowledge of the ArcView GIS software
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