Dive deeper into the universe and develop a lifelong passion for space exploration and investigation. Become familiar with the inner and outer planets of the solar system as well as the sun, comets, asteroids, and meteors. Additional topics include space travel and settlements as well as the formation of planets.

This course will include topics such as astronomy's history and development, basic scientific laws of motion and gravity, the concepts of modern astronomy, and the methods used by astronomers to learn more about the universe. Further knowledge is gained through the study of galaxies, stars, and the origin of the universe

In Biotechnology 1a: Introduction, students learn the basics of biotechnology and evolutionary theory, explore the various ways we store and preserve food, and discover the process of fermentation and microbiology. This course will also cover the importance of breeding plants and hybridization and how early breeding programs led to the study of genetics and an understanding of the function of genes. Finally, you'll delve into early industrial discoveries and explore the developments in biotechnology during the industrial revolution.

In Biotechnology 1b: Unlocking Nature's Secrets, students build on your knowledge from Biotechnology 1a and learn how this field seeks to cure such deadly diseases as cancer and malaria, develop innovative medicine, and effectively feed the world through improved agricultural systems. Learn about some of the challenges biotechnology faces today, such as the growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria and questions about the safety of commercially produced genetically modified organisms (GMOs). You'll research new biotechnologies and learn how they are changing the world we live in, including the environmental benefits of industrial biotechnology.

Earth/Space Science is a laboratory course focusing on the study of space, geologic structures and forces, the waters on our planet, and the atmospheric forces that shape our world. Through experimentation and investigation, students will explore the earth cycles including the geosphere, hydrosphere, crysosphere, atmosphere, and the carbon cycle. Students will learn about scientific inquiry, geologic time, space exploration, the solar system, and the universe. Upon completion of the course, students will have a clear understanding of the dynamic forces at work in the world around them, becoming better caretakers of our planet, Earth.

Fingerprints. Blood spatter. DNA analysis. The world of law enforcement is increasingly making use of the techniques and knowledge from the sciences to better understand the crimes that are committed and to catch those individuals responsible for the crimes. Forensic science applies scientific knowledge to the criminal justice system. This course focuses on some of the techniques and practices used by forensic scientists during a crime scene investigation (CSI). Starting with how clues and data are recorded and preserved, the student will follow evidence trails until the CSI goes to trial, examining how various elements of the crime scene are analyzed and processed.

Although the crime scene represents the first step in solving crimes through forensic science, the crime laboratory plays a critical role in the analysis of evidence. This course focuses on the analysis of evidence and testing that takes place within this setting. We will examine some of the basic scientific principles and knowledge that guides forensic laboratory processes, such as those testing DNA, toxicology, and material analysis. Techniques such as microscopy, chromatography, odontology, entomology, mineralogy, and spectroscopy will be examined. Forensic Science 1 does not have to be completed before taking this class.

Forests and other natural resources play an important role in our world, from providing lumber and paper products to providing habitat for birds and animals. In the Introduction to Forestry and Natural Resources course, you will learn more about forest ecology, management, and conservation. You will explore topics such as environmental policy, land use, water resources, and wildlife management. Finally, you will learn more about forestry-related careers and important issues facing forestry professionals today.

Is there life on other planets? What extremes can the human body endure? Can we solve the problem of global warming? Today, scientists, explorers, and writers are working to answer all of these questions. Like Edison, Einstein, Curie, and Newton, the scientists of today are asking questions and working on problems that may revolutionize our lives and world. This course focuses on 10 of today's greatest scientific minds. Each unit takes an in-depth look at one of these individuals, and shows how their ideas may help to shape tomorrow's world.

As our amazing planet continues to change over time, it becomes increasingly apparent how human activity has made environmental impacts. In the marine science course, students will delve deep into Earth?s bodies of water and study geologic structures and how they impact the oceans. Students will investigate characteristics of various populations, patterns of distribution of life in our aquatic systems, and ongoing changes occurring every day in our precious ecosystems. Students will be amazed and enlightened at just how much our oceans and lakes affect climate, weather, and seasonal variations. They will have the opportunity to explore the relationships among living organisms and see how they are affected by our oceans currents, tides, and waves. Hold on, it is one amazing journey. This is a two quarter class.

As animals play an increasingly important role in our lives, scientists have sought to learn more about their health and well-being. Taking a look at the pets that live in our homes, on our farms, and in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, this course will examine some of the common diseases and treatments for domestic animals. Toxins, parasites, and infectious diseases impact not only the animals around us, but at times, we humans as well! Through veterinary medicine and science, the prevention and treatment of diseases and health issues is studied and applied.