IMPORTANCE OF SCIENCE LITERACY:

First, an understanding of science offers personal fulfillment and excitement--benefits that should be shared by everyone. Second, Americans are confronted increasingly with questions in their lives that require scientific information and scientific ways of thinking for informed decision making. And the collective judgment of our people will determine how we manage shared resources--such as air, water, and national forests.

"Science understanding and ability also will enhance the capability of all students to hold meaningful and productive jobs in the future. The business community needs entry-level workers with the ability to learn, reason, think creatively, make decisions, and solve problems. In addition, concerns regarding economic competitiveness stress the central importance of science and mathematics education that will allow us to keep pace with our global competitors."……………... National Science Education Standards

GOALS FOR SCIENCE:

The goals for science that underlie the National Science Education Standards are to educate students who are able to:

• Experience the richness and excitement of knowing about and understanding the natural world;
• Use appropriate scientific processes and principles in making personal decisions;
• Engage intelligently in public discourse and debate about matters of scientific and technological concern; and
• Increase their economic productivity through the use of the knowledge, understanding, and skills of the scientifically literate person in their careers.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

An independent department of science was created in September 2006, Chaired by Dr. Karen Goss, with the purpose of

1. providing quality science education in the areas of Anatomy & Physiology,Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, General chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Physics.
2. Enabling students to formulate a critical understanding of the interface between science, society and technology.
3. Developing students’ capacities and confidence to make informed decisions and take responsible action, to address issues arising from the impact of science on their daily lives.

Highly qualified faculty members cater to the various courses offered by the department.

MISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT:

The Department of Science is committed to upholding the overall mission and purpose of South College. Toward that end, the mission of the departmental unit is to create and foster the development of science related academic courses that will meet the diverse needs of their students and assist them in their preparation to become competent professionals, reflective practitioners, and service-oriented individuals.

Upon completion of required science courses the student will:

1. Demonstrate competence in collecting and interpreting scientific information.
2. Develop basic skills in critical thinking and problem solving.
3. Develop an understanding of technologies utilized in scientific investigation related to the medical and allied health professions.

The Science Department offers all basic science courses for

• Pre-nursing
• Pre-radiology
• Pre-physical therapist
  
• Pre-pharmacy
• Pre-elementary education
  

COURSES OFFERED BY THE DEPARTMENT (with lab):

1. Anatomy and Physiology I and II
2. Biochemistry I
3. Biology I and II
4. General Chemistry I and II
5. Microbiology I
6. Organic I and II
7. Pathophysiology I
8. Physics I