DIII Courses
Spring 2022
ASTR 101 - Stars, Galaxies and the Universe. An introductory course for students in academic programs. Course covers the formation, evolution and death of stars; the composition and evolution of galaxies; and the structure and evolution of the universe.
ASTR 102 - Exploration of the Solar System. Discusses the physical processes governing the nature and behavior of the various Solar System bodies with a focus on the origins, evolution and fate of the Solar System and its parts. This broader context leads to a deeper understanding of the Earth as a life-supporting planet.
BIOS 122 - Biology for Voters. Designer babies, climate change, the anti-vaccine movement, gender identity, evolution…course explores these and other socially relevant topics to provide a context for learning essential concepts in biology and ways to distinguish science truth from science fiction.
BIOS 368 - Conceiving and Misconceiving the Monstrous in Fiction and in Art, in Medicine and in Bioscience. Across variations of life, this course draws boundaries between normal, not normal and monstrous. From the Biosciences to the Creative Arts, our conceptions of the "monstrous" illuminate our identity, perceptions and fears. This is a discussion-based class accessible to people of all backgrounds and interests.
CHEM 176 - The Chemistry of Art. Presents the chemistry of the materials and methods used to create, conserve and authenticate art objects. Topics include sculpture, painting, photography, textiles, jewelry, furniture, etc. This course is taught in conjunction with the Conservation Department and Staff of the MFAH. Some classes will be held at the MFAH or HMNS.
CHEM 178 - The Chemistry of Cooking. This course examines the chemistry involved in the composition, transformation and consumption of food. Topics include chemical properties and reactions of food, cooking tools, and techniques, sensory perception and nutrition. Lectures and hands-on kitchen experiments are taught in conjunction with Rice Dining Service. Knowledge of high school chemistry is expected.
EEPS 101 - The Earth. Study of the nature of the Earth and its processes.
EEPS 108 - Natural Disasters. Students will learn about the science behind natural disasters. Topics discussed include earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, hurricanes and tornadoes. Course will cover the fundamental Earth Science concepts and processes required to understand these phenomena.
MATH 115 - The Art of Mathematics. Math 115 is intended primarily for students majoring in non-STEM fields seeking knowledge of the nature of mathematics as well as training in mathematical thinking and problem-solving. The goal of the course is to demonstrate that math is not necessarily about formulas, but is rather a process of thinking which is relevant to them on a daily basis.