Sea Science: Understanding the Oceans Through a Study of Introductory Oceanography and Chemistry

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The oceans comprise most of the biosphere and marine chemical processes affect the global carbon cycle and climate. In this introductory level one-quarter program we will present fundamental concepts in oceanography and chemistry needed to understand selected ocean characteristics and phenomena. These will include case studies on the composition and dynamics of seawater, adaptations of marine organisms and their productivity, marine pollution, and climate change/ocean acidification. The chemistry needed to examine these topics will include basic properties and composition of matter, redox reactions, and simple acid-base chemistry. Program activities will include lectures, problem-solving workshops, laboratories, field trips, and student presentations. Most of our readings, discussions and assignments will be concerned with critically evaluating the scientific information on the selected topics of study. This work will emphasize quantitative reasoning as well as the development of proficient writing and speaking skills.

This is a non-repeating lower division program intended for students seeking to gain an introduction to science, as well as practice with the quantitative methods used in chemistry and oceanography. Strong algebra skills are required to be successful in this work. This program is also appropriate for students seeking to study science as part of a liberal arts education, it is not intended as a prerequisite for upper-division work in science. This program prepares you for entry-level science programs and courses such as Integrated Natural Science and Introduction to Environmental Studies.

This program is coordinated with Greener Foundations for first-year students. Greener Foundations is Evergreen’s in-person introductory student success course, which provides first-year students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive at Evergreen.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

7 - Introductory Chemistry

7 - Introductory Oceanography