|
|
Catalogue 2017-2018 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Descriptions
|
|
|
|
| |
Biology: III. Advanced Two units of 200-level biology are prerequisites for entry into 300-level courses; see each course for specific courses required or exceptions. |
| |
-
BIOL 303 - Senior Research Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
1 unit(s)
Critical analysis, usually through observation or experimentation, of a specific research problem in biology. A student electing this course must first gain, by submission of a written research proposal, the support of a member of the biology faculty with whom to work out details of a research protocol. The formal research proposal, a final paper, and presentation of results are required parts of the course. A second faculty member participates both in the planning of the research and in final evaluation.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the instructor.
|
| |
-
BIOL 316 - Seminar in Neurobiology Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
A multi-level examination of nervous systems, this course is an advanced and integrative evaluation of current topics in neurobiology. Topics vary but may include glia, evolution of nervous systems, neuroimmune interactions, mechanisms of neural communication and plasticity. Emphasis is placed on current thinking and research and course material is drawn from the recent neurobiological literature. Kathleen Susman.
Prerequisite(s): two units of 200-level Biology or one unit of 200-level Biology and NEUR 201 .
Recommended: BIOL 217 or BIOL 228 .
Two 75-minute periods
|
| |
-
BIOL 323 - Seminar in Cell and Molecular Biology Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
An intensive study of selected topics at the cellular and subcellular level. Topics vary, but may include organelle structure and function, advanced genetics, and mechanisms of cellular organization. Emphasis is placed on current models, issues, and research areas, and course material is drawn largely from primary literature.
Topic for 2017/18a: Immunity. Multicellular organisms have evolved multiple systems for resisting viral, bacterial, and parasites. We examine evolution and basic mechanisms of innate and acquired immunity; how tumors, pathogens and parasites evade immune systems; microbiomes and autoimmunity; and potential use of biotechnologies such as CRISPR and gene drives to mitigate malaria and other diseases by engineering immunity across vector populations. Jennifer Kennell and William J. Straus.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 244 and one unit of Genetics (BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , or BIOL 248 ) and one of the following: BIOL 218 , BIOL 232 , BIOL 272 CHEM 272 , or CHEM 325 .
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 324 - Molecular Biology Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as CHEM 324 ) An examination of the macromolecular processes underlying storage, transfer, and expression of genetic information. Topics include the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA; mutation and repair; the chemistry of RNA and protein synthesis; the regulation of gene expression; cancer and oncogenes; the molecular basis of cell differentiation; and genetic engineering. Colin Aitken.
Prerequisite(s): one unit of any 200-level biology and one unit of biochemistry (BIOL 272 /CHEM 272 or CHEM 325 ).
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 340 - Experimental Animal Behavior Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
Examination of the relationship between behavior and the individual animal’s survival and reproductive success in its natural environment. Evolutionary, physiological, and developmental aspects of orientation, communication, foraging, reproductive tactics, and social behavior are considered. Methodology and experimental design are given particular emphasis. The department.
Prerequisite(s): one unit of any 200-level biology and one of the following: BIOL 226 , BIOL 228 , NEUR 201 , PSYC 221 , or PSYC 229 .
Recommended: BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , BIOL 248 or PSYC 200 .
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 352 - Conservation Biology
1 unit(s)
(Same as ENST 352 ) Conservation Biology uses a multidisciplinary approach to study how to best maintain the earth’s biodiversity and functioning ecosystems. We examine human impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem function and discuss how to develop practical approaches for mitigating those impacts. We start the semester by assessing the current human footprint on global resources, asking questions about what we are trying to preserve, why we are trying to preserve it, and how we can accomplish our goals. We critically examine the assumptions made by conservation biologists throughout, using case studies from around the world to explore a range of perspectives. Discussion topics include conservation in an agricultural context, the efficacy of marine protected areas, the impact of climate change on individual species and preserve design, restoration ecology, the consequences of small population sizes, conservation genetics, the impacts of habitat fragmentation and invasive species, and urban ecology. Margaret Ronsheim.
Prerequisites: two units of 200-level biology or one unit of 200-level biology and one of the following: ESCI 221 , ESCI 361 , GEOG 224 , GEOG 260 , or GEOG 356 .
Recommended: BIOL 241 , BIOL 208 , or BIOL 226 , GEOG 260 , GEOG 224 , or GEOG 356 ; or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
BIOL 353 - Bioinformatics Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as CMPU 353 ) DNA is the blueprint of life. Although it’s composed of only four nucleotide “letters” (A, C. T, G), the order and arrangement of these letters in a genome gives rise to the diversity of life on earth. Thousands of genomes have been partially sequenced, representing billions of nucleotides. How can we reach this vast expanse of sequence data to find patterns that provide answers to ecological, evolutionary, agricultural, and biomedical questions? Bioinformatics applies high-performance computing to discover patterns in large sequence datasets. In this class students from biology and computer science work together to formulate interesting biological questions and to design algorithms and computational experiments to answer them. Jodi Schwarz.
Prerequisite(s): For students registering under the BIOL prefix, the prerequisites are one unit of any 200-level biology and one unit of Genetics (BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , or BIOL 248 ); BIOL students do not need to have any Computer Science background.
For students registering under the CMPU prefix, the prerequisite is CMPU 203 or permission of the instructor; CMPU students do not need to have any Biology background.
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 355 - Ecology and Evolution of Sexual Reproduction
1 unit(s)
Sex: “nothing in life is more important, more interesting - or troublesome.” This quotation from Olivia Judson, Ph.D., (a.k.a. Dr. Tatiana) is just one recent example of the long-standing fascination that ecologists and evolutionary biologists have had with sexual reproduction. This course begins with the question: What is sex? We then examine the current status of competing hypotheses for the evolution of sex, and then turn our attention to the myriad ecological and evolutionary consequences of sexual reproduction. We consider such questions as: Why are there only two sexes? Why do males and females look and behave differently? When is it advantageous to produce more sons than daughters (or vice versa)? When is it advantageous to be a hermaphrodite or to change sex? To address such questions in a biologically rigorous way, we need to draw on a wide range of theoretical work and empirical evidence from cellular and molecular biology, genetics, developmental biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Mark Schlessman.
Prerequisite(s): one unit of any 200-level Biology and one of the following: BIOL 208 , BIOL 226 , BIOL 241 , or Genetics (BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 or BIOL 248 ).
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 356 - Aquatic Ecology
1 unit(s)
A consideration of freshwater, estuarine, and marine habitats that examines material and energy fluxes through aquatic systems; physiological aspects of primary production; the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients; adaptations of organisms to physical and chemical aspects of aquatic environments; biological processes that structure selected communities; and the role of aquatic habitat in global change phenomena.
Prerequisite(s): two units of any 200-level Biology.
Not offered in 2017/18.
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
BIOL 370 - Immunology
1 unit(s)
An examination of the immune response at the cellular and molecular levels. Topics include innate and adaptive immunity, the role of the microbiome in immunity, and the structure, function, and synthesis of antibodies. Mechanisms for recognition, communication, and cooperation between different classes of lymphocytes in producing immune responses are also stressed, as are the genetic basis of immunological diversity and the cellular definition of “self” which makes each individual unique. Immune tolerance, the immunological basis of transplantation, allergic responses, tumor immunology, and immune deficiency diseases are discussed.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 244 and two units of 200-level Biology.
Recommended: BIOL 218 , BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , BIOL 248 , or BIOL 272 .
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 375 - Sensory Ecology Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
There are many behaviors that are critical to the survival and reproduction of animals including finding food, avoiding predators, attracting mates, and raising offspring. The ability to successfully engage in these behaviors is dependent on the ability of organisms to acquire and respond to information in their environment. In this course we will discuss the concept of information, the types of information available in the environment, the diversity of sensory systems animals have evolved to exploit that information, and how sensory information and processing influence behavior. Sensory ecology is a highly interdisciplinary field and we make use of mathematical, physical, chemical and biological principals. The class is divided among traditional lectures, student led discussions of the primary literature, and hands-on experiences with sensory ecology data collection and analysis. Megan Gall.
Prerequisite(s): one unit of any 200-level Biology and one of the following: BIOL 226 , BIOL 228 , BIOL 241 , or NEUR 201 .
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
-
BIOL 379 - Today’s News in Biology
1 unit(s)
This course explores trending topics in the media that are related to biology. We examine how the topic is portrayed by different media sources, research the scientific literature to develop an independent understanding of the topic, and discuss related social and ethical issues. Possible topics may include: emergence of antibiotic resistance; probiotics; overfishing; sports-related head injuries; genetic engineering; climate change; degradation of natural ecosystems; emerging infectious diseases; vaccines. Hughey.
Prerequisite(s): two units of any 200-level Biology.
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
|
| |
-
BIOL 381 - Topics in Ecosystem Ecology - Ecosystem Structure and Function Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
(Same as ENST 381 ) Ecosystems are complex systems, where biotic and abiotic factors interact to create the world we see around us. Understanding the nature of ecosystems is fundamental to understanding how disturbance and change in a dynamic world will influence ecosystem stability. This is especially critical as we enter the Anthropocene; a time in our planets history where one species, modern humans, dominate. Major changes brought about by increased human activity include changing climate regimes, invasive species spread and biodiversity loss. This course explores how ecosystems, both aquatic and terrestrial, are assembled (structured) and how different ecosystems process energy and matter (function). We use our understanding of structure and function to explore how different ecosystems respond to changes in the environment (including climate change, invasive species introductions, loss of biodiversity and pollution). A class project will explore an ecosystem scale problem, and students will develop a plan for effectively communicating the scientific understanding of the problem to multiple stakeholders. Lynn Christenson.
Prerequisite(s): one course in Ecology (e.g., BIOL 241 or BIOL 356 at Vassar, or a course taken elsewhere).
|
| |
-
BIOL 382 - Animal Communication Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
All animals use communication to navigate interactions with other individuals. At its most basic animal communication is a feedback loop. Senders produce signals which travel through the environment and are picked up by a receiver. The reception of the signal changes the behavior of the receiver through either voluntary or involuntary neural and hormonal changes; this, in turn, changes the behavior of the sender. In this course we discuss (1) how animal signals are produced, transmitted, and received; (2) how information transfer has evolved and been optimized; (3) how animals use communication in mate attraction, social integration, and predator-prey interactions; and (4) the controversy surrounding the definition of communication. Animal communication is a highly interdisciplinary field and we explore the chemical and physical properties of signals, as well as the mathematical models, neural and hormonal control, and the ecological and evolutionary underpinnings of animal communication. This course also examines animal communication in the wild and thus some self-scheduled field work is required. Megan Gall.
Prerequisite(s): two 200-level courses, with at least one of the following: BIOL 226 , BIOL 228 , BIOL 241 , or NEUR 201 .
One 3-hour period plus one 75-minute period.
|
| |
-
BIOL 383 - Hormones and Behavior Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
This course is a comparative examination of hormones and behavior in animals. We take an evolutionary approach to this topic by emphasizing (1) the common selective pressures that act on all animals and the common hormonal and behavioral responses to these pressures, and (2) how extreme selective pressures drive the evolution of unique mechanisms in the field of behavioral endocrinology. Half lecture, half student led discussions from the primary literature. Kelli Duncan.
Prerequisite(s): two units of 200-level biology.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 386 - Stem Cell Biology
1 unit(s)
Stem cell biology lies at the intersection of developmental/cell biology and medicine. This fast-moving field brings together many aspects of basic and applied biology and medicine including development, regeneration/repair, and cancer. This course covers a broad range of topics relevant to stem cell biology. We also consider the potential consequences and limitations of stem cell therapy, particularly the connection between stem cells and cancer. The format gives students both a broad background and the opportunity to apply critical thinking skills to recent data in this field. Since this is an upper level course, it assumes a basic understanding of genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology, and so concepts drawing from these fields will not be covered in depth. This means that some students may find additional background reading necessary. Class material draws from primary literature and students participate in active discussion and presentations. Nancy Pokrywka.
Prerequisite(s): two 200-level courses including one of the following: BIOL 218 , 238 , 244 , 248 , or 272 , and at least one semester of organic chemistry.
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 387 - Symbiotic Interactions
1 unit(s)
From the evolution of eukaryotic cells to the creation of entire ecosystems, endosymbiosis is a driving force in biology. This course provides an integrative perspective on host-symbiont interactions in diverse endosymbioses. We spend the first half of the semester examining the critical roles of symbiosis in ecology, evolution, and human systems. Then, we examine the underlying cellular and molecular processes that lead to an integrated host-symbiont partnership, for example mechanisms of host-symbiont recognition, regulation of nutrient exchange, and genomic interactions. Jodi Schwarz.
Prerequisite(s): two 200-level Biology courses, including one of the following: BIOL 205 , BIOL 218 , BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , BIOL 248 .
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 388 - Virology Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
Viruses cause significant diseases in humans, such as AIDS, influenza, and ebola. On the edge between living and non-living things, viruses invade, take over and alter cells in order to reproduce and transmit. Virus structure, replication and pathogenesis, major viral diseases, the immune response to viruses, and vaccination are major topics of discussion. David Esteban.
Prerequisite(s): two units of 200-level biology, including one of BIOL 205 , BIOL 218 , BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , BIOL 248 , BIOL 272 ; or permission of the instructor.
Two 2-hour periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 389 - Cardiovascular Physiology and Epidemiology Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. This course examines the human cardiovascular system in both health and disease. In addition, this course enables students to understand major aspects of cardiovascular epidemiology (i.e., CVD distribution, risk factors, and natural history) and current strategies for CVD prevention. Leroy Cooper.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
BIOL 399 - Senior Independent Work Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
Execution and analysis of a field, laboratory, or library study. The project, to be arranged with an individual instructor, is expected to have a substantial paper as its final product.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the instructor.
|
Chemistry: I. Introductory |
| |
-
CHEM 108 - General Chemistry Semester Offered: Fall
0 or 1 unit(s)
This course covers fundamental aspects of general chemistry in two semesters, including descriptive chemistry, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, atomic and molecular structure, states of matter, properties of solutions, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibria, and electrochemistry. Most of the work is quantitative in nature. The department.
First semester of the two-semester sequence CHEM108/109 .
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 109 - General Chemistry Semester Offered: Spring
0 or 1 unit(s)
This course covers fundamental aspects of general chemistry in two semesters, including descriptive chemistry, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, atomic and molecular structure, states of matter, properties of solutions, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibria, and electrochemistry. Most of the work is quantitative in nature. The department.
Second semester of the two-semester sequence CHEM 108 /109.
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 125 - Chemical Principles Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
0 or 1 unit(s)
This course is designed to cover the important aspects of general chemistry in one semester, and is appropriate for students who have previously studied chemistry. The material covered includes chemical reactions, stoichiometry, atomic and molecular structure, and general chemical physics, emphasizing the fundamental aspects of and connections between equilibria, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, and kinetics. The department.
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 135 - Introduction to Forensic Chemistry
1 unit(s)
Forensic chemistry is the application of chemistry in the study of evidence in criminal or civil cases. This course covers underlying chemistry concepts and scientific methods as applied to the study of the forensic evidence. An introductory level of organic and polymer chemistry relevant to the study of forensic evidence is also included. Students apply modern analytical methods in the study of glass samples, fingerprints, hair and fibers, paints, drugs, trace metals, and arson investigations. The analytical methods include thin layer chromatography (TLC), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, gas chromatography, GCMS, inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The format of the course is based on lectures, laboratory exercises, case study discussions, and several guest speakers on select topics in forensics science. Ms. Kaur.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
CHEM 145 - Chemistry Research Techniques
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
This course provides an introduction to modern research instrumentation and techniques in chemistry through multiple-week laboratory projects. Students get experience with the use of advanced instrumentation, and in interpreting and analyzing the experimental results. Topics may include: structural characterization with X-ray crystallography; materials analysis with scanning probe microscopies; polymer synthesis and characterization; synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials; computational chemistry to perform theoretical ab initio calculations and computer modeling of biomolecules. Mr. Donhauser.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 125 .
Enrollment by permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
One 50-minute period; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 146 - The Culture and Chemistry of Cuisine
1 unit(s)
(Same as STS 146 ) A basic biological need of all organisms is the ability to acquire nutrients from the environment; humans accomplish this in many creative ways. Food is an important factor in societies that influences population growth, culture, migration, and conflict. Humans discovered the science and art of food preparation, topics that are explored in this course, not in a single step but rather as an evolving process that continues to this day. This course develops the basic chemistry, biochemistry and microbiology of food preparation; explores the biochemical basis of certain nutritional practices; covers social and political aspects of foods throughout world history. It covers controversies like genetically modified organisms, the production of high-fructose corn syrup, and the historic role of food commodities such as salt, rum, and cod in the world economy. Course topics are explored through lectures, student presentations, and readings from both popular and scientific literature. The course includes a few laboratories to explore the basic science behind food preparation. Miriam Rossi.
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 75-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 198 - Freshmen Independent Research Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 unit(s)
Students perform independent chemistry research under the direction of a faculty member of their choosing. Attendance at regularly scheduled department seminars/events is required to satisfactorily complete the course. The department.
Open only to freshmen.
|
Chemistry: II. Intermediate |
| |
-
CHEM 244 - Organic Chemistry: Structure and Properties Semester Offered: Fall
0 or 1 unit(s)
An introduction to the structure of organic molecules and to their nomenclature. Among the properties of organic compounds, shape, charge distribution, and spectroscopic properties are emphasized. Laboratory work includes isolation, physical transformations and identification of organic compounds including the application of gas chromatography and infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 109 or CHEM 125 .
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 245 - Organic Chemistry: Reactions and Mechanisms Semester Offered: Spring
0 or 1 unit(s)
A study of the reactions of organic compounds from a mechanistic point of view. Laboratory work includes synthesis, qualitative analysis, and quantitative investigation of reaction rates and equilibria which emphasize mechanistic considerations. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 244 .
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 255 - Introduction to Forensic Chemistry Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as STS 255 ) Forensic chemistry is the application of chemistry in the study of evidence in criminal or civil cases. This course covers underlying chemistry concepts and scientific methods in the analysis and evaluation of several types of forensic evidence. Topics include crime scene investigation and case studies, overview of rules of evidence, finger-printing analysis, GCMS and FTIR characterization of organic compounds and fibers, hair and glass analysis, and DNA profiling. Sarjit Kaur.
Prerequisite: CHEM 244 .
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 272 - Biochemistry Semester Offered: Spring
0 or 1 unit(s)
(Same as BIOL 272 ) Basic course covering protein structure and synthesis, enzyme action, bio-energetic principles, electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, selected metabolic pathways in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Collin Aitken, Eric Eberhardt, Teresa Garrett, Krystle McLaughlin, William Straus.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 244 and BIOL 106 .
Three 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 275 - Computational Methods in Chemistry
0.5 unit(s)
This course introduces several molecular modeling methods in computational chemistry (molecular mechanics, semi-empirical and ab-initio methods, and density functional theory) to study geometries, properties, and reactivities of organic compounds; an introductory level of theory is presented to delineate the basis of these molecular modeling methods. The course also includes computational laboratory exercises to supplement concepts covered in lectures, and project-based exercises to explore applications of computational methods in the study of chemical systems.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
CHEM 290 - Field Work
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
|
| |
-
CHEM 297 - Reading Course Semester Offered: Fall
0.5 unit(s)
|
| |
-
CHEM 298 - Independent Research Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
Students perform independent chemistry research under the direction of a faculty member of their choosing. Attendance at regularly scheduled department seminars/events is required to satisfactorily complete the course. The department.
|
Chemistry: III. Advanced |
| |
-
CHEM 300 - Senior Thesis Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
1 unit(s)
|
| |
-
CHEM 323 - Protein Chemistry Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
A detailed study of the structure and function of proteins. Structure determination, mechanisms of catalysis and regulation, and the interactions of enzymes in complex systems are treated. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 350 or CHEM 272 . Corequisite: CHEM 350
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 324 - Molecular Biology Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as BIOL 324 ) An examination of the macromolecular processes underlying storage, transfer, and expression of genetic information. Topics include the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA; mutation and repair; the chemistry of RNA and protein synthesis; the regulation of gene expression; cancer and oncogenes; the molecular basis of cell differentiation; and genetic engineering. Collin Aitken.
Prerequisite(s): one unit of any 200-level biology and one unit of biochemistry (BIOL 272 /CHEM 272 or CHEM 325 ).
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 325 - Topics in Biochemistry Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
This course explores the intersection of biology and chemistry. Topics include the structure and function of proteins, bioenergetics, information flows and the molecular basis for metabolic pathways. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 , BIOL 105 or BIOL 106 .
This course does NOT meet the biochemistry major requirement. Students may not take both BIOL 272 /CHEM 272 and Chem 325.
Three 50-minute or two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 326 - Inorganic Chemistry Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
An introduction to structure and reactivity of inorganic, coordination, and organometallic compounds, including the following topics: chemical applications of group theory, atomic and molecular structure, theories of bonding, the solid state, coordination chemistry, inorganic reaction mechanisms, and organometallic chemistry. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 352 , or permission of the instructor.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 342 - Advanced Organic Chemistry Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
Selected topics in organic chemistry such as stereochemistry, conformational analysis, carbanions, carbocations, radicals, kinetic and thermodynamic control of reactions, mechanisms, synthesis. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 , CHEM 350 , or permission of the instructor.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 350 - Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics and Chemical Kinetics Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
Equations of state for gases; the laws of thermodynamics; solutions and phase equilibria; chemical equilibrium and chemical kinetics. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 ; PHYS 113 , PHYS 114 ; MATH 121 , MATH 126 and MATH 127 or the equivalent; or permission of the instructor.
Three 50-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 352 - Physical Chemistry: Molecular Structure Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
Introductory wave mechanics and bonding theories; electrical and magnetic properties of molecules; spectroscopy; statistical mechanics. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 ; PHYS 113 , PHYS 114 ; MATH 121 , MATH 126 and MATH 127 or the equivalent; or permission of the instructor.
Three 50-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 357 - Chemical Physics
1 unit(s)
The course includes selected topics which are of interest to chemistry majors as well as biochemistry and physics majors. Possible topics include applications of group theory, interaction of radiation with matter, molecular spectroscopy, reaction kinetics, reaction rate theory, and statistical mechanics. The material covered in any particular semester depends on the mutual interests of the instructor and the students. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 350 and CHEM 352 or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
CHEM 362 - Instrumental Analysis Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
An introduction to chemical analysis, this course covers the theoretical and practical aspects of spectroscopic, electrochemical, and chromatographic -methods, including topics in instrumentation, statistics, and chemometrics. Mr. Belli.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 or permission of the instructor.
Three 50-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHEM 365 - Spectrometric Identification of Organic Compounds
0.5 unit(s)
This course focuses on the use of modern analytical instrumentation to identify unknown organic compounds. Students get extensive hands-on experience using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) (1H, 13C, DEPT, COSY, HETCOR), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Working with weekly unknowns, students learn to interpret spectra and assemble the data necessary to support both a formula and structure determination. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 .
Not offered in 2017/18.
One 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 370 - Advanced Laboratory Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
Advanced laboratory work may be elected in the field of organic, analytical, physical, inorganic, biochemistry, or environmental chemistry. The department.
Prerequisite(s): a 300-level course in the pertinent field. Corequisite: a 300-level course in the pertinent field.
One 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 372 - Integrated Chemistry Laboratory Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
This course provides a comprehensive laboratory experience in chemistry. Selected experiments teach advanced chemistry techniques and reinforce principles introduced in 300 level chemistry courses. The course exposes students to chemistry as an integrated subject, tying together the sub-disciplines that are traditionally offered as independent courses. This includes: instrumental analysis, physical chemistry, biochemistry, environmental, organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry. The department.
One 50-minute period; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 373 - Integrated Chemistry Laboratory Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
This course provides a comprehensive laboratory experience in chemistry. Selected experiments teach advanced chemistry techniques and reinforce principles introduced in 300 level chemistry courses. The course exposes students to chemistry as an integrated subject, tying together the sub-disciplines that are traditionally offered as independent courses. This includes: instrumental analysis, physical chemistry, biochemistry, environmental, organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry. The department.
One 50-minute period; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 375 - Aquatic Chemistry
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
(Same as ENST 375 ) This course explores the fundamentals of aqueous chemistry as applied to natural waters. The global water cycle and major water resources are introduced. Principles explored include: kinetics and thermodynamics, atmosphere-water interactions, rock-water interactions, precipitation and dissolution, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, and nutrient and trace metal cycling. Alison Spodek.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 245 ; PHYS 113 , PHYS 114 ; MATH 121 , MATH 126 and MATH 127 or the equivalent; or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
CHEM 382 - Special Topics in Organic Chemistry: Introduction to Polymer Chemistry
1 unit(s)
Properties and uses of selected polymers (thermally stable, conducting, and biodegradable). This course includes organic and kinetic aspects of polymerizations, characterization techniques for structure determination, thermal and -mechanical properties, and measurement of molecular weight and distribution. Laboratory techniques and experiments leading to synthesis, characterization and physical properties of selected polymers (synthesized or commercially available polymers) are emphasized. Sarjit Kaur.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 244 /CHEM 245 or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 50-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.
|
| |
-
CHEM 399 - Senior Independent Research
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
Students perform independent chemistry research under the direction of a faculty member of their choosing. Attendance at regularly scheduled department seminars/events is required to satisfactorily complete the course. The department.
Open only to seniors.
|
Chinese/Japanese: I. Introductory |
| |
-
CHJA 120 - Introduction to Chinese and Japanese Literature
1 unit(s)
China and Japan have rich cultures that have deeply influenced one another. This course introduces some of the major works of Chinese and Japanese literature, including philosophical works, novels and films. Thematically, the course is organized around the way that major intellectual trends (including Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism) resonate in text from both cultures. Among the readings are novels dealing with love and sexuality (including China’s Dream of the Red Chamber and Japan’s The Tale of Genji), works about martial virtues (such as the Chinese novel Three Kingdoms and the Japanese play Chushingura), as well as selected poetry, short stories and films. All readings and discussions are in English.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
|
Chinese/Japanese: II. Intermediate |
| |
-
CHJA 290 - Field Work Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
One-half or one unit of credit given only in exceptional cases and by permission of the chair. Offered only pass/fail. The department.
Prerequisite(s): two units of Chinese or Japanese.
|
| |
-
CHJA 298 - Independent Study Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
One-half or one unit of credit given only in exceptional cases and by permission of the chair. Offered only pass/fail. The department.
Prerequisite(s): 2 units of Chinese or Japanese.
|
Chinese/Japanese: III. Advanced |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
-
CHJA 351 - Special Topics in Chinese and Japanese Literature and Culture Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as ASIA 351 ) Topics vary each year. Can be repeated for credit when a new topic is offered.
Topic for 2017/18a: Chinese Linguistics. This course offers a systematic and comprehensive introduction to the whole set of terminology of the general linguistics in connection to Chinese phonology, morphology and syntax. It examines the structure of Chinese words, sentences and discourse in terms of their pronunciation, formation and function in comparison with and in contrast to similar aspects of English. It also highlights the construction and evolution of Chinese characters and explores social dimensions of the language. Topics such as language planning and standardization, relations of Mandarin with the dialects, and interactions between Chinese and other minority languages are discussed. Classes are conducted and readings done in English. Students with background in Chinese can choose to do projects in Chinese at their appropriate level. Wenwei Du.
Prerequisite(s): two courses in a combination of language, linguistics, literature, culture, or Asian Studies, or permission of the instructor.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CHJA 361 - Chinese and Japanese Drama and Theatre
1 unit(s)
(Same as DRAM 361 ) A study of Chinese and Japanese culture and society through well-known dramatic genres - zaju, chuanqi, kunqu, Beijing Opera, modern Spoken Drama, noh, kyogen, bunraku, kabuki, and New Drama; a close reading of selected plays in English translation. Scheduled films of performances convey Chinese and Japanese theatrical conventions and aesthetics. Discussions focus on major themes based on research presentations. All readings and discussions are in English. Wenwei Du.
Prerequisite(s): one 200-level course in language, literature, culture, drama or Asian Studies, or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
CHJA 362 - Senior Seminar: Women in Japanese and Chinese Literature Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
(Same as ASIA 362 and WMST 362 ) An intercultural examination of the images of women presented in Japanese and Chinese narrative, drama, and poetry from their early emergence to the modern period. While giving critical attention to aesthetic issues and the gendered voices in representative works, the course also provides a comparative view of the dynamic changes in women’s roles in Japan and China. All selections are in English translation. Peipei Qiu.
Prerequisite(s): one 200-level course in language, literature, culture or Asian Studies, or permission of the instructor.
One 2-hour period.
|
| |
-
CHJA 366 - Seminar in Transcending the Limit: Literary Theory in the East-West Context
1 unit(s)
(Same as ASIA 366 ) This course examines various traditional and contemporary literary theories with a distinct Asianist—particularly East Asianist—perspective. At least since the eighteenth century, Western theoretical discourse often took into serious consideration East Asian literature, language and civilization in their construction of “universal” theoretical discourses. The comparative approach to literary theory becomes imperative in contemporary theoretical discourse as we move toward ever greater global integration. Selected theoretical texts from the I Ching, Hegel, Genette, Barthes, Derrida, Todorov, and Heidegger as well as some primary literary texts are among the required readings. All readings are in English. Haoming Liu.
Prerequisite(s): one literature course or permission of the instructor.
Not offered in 2017/18.
|
| |
-
CHJA 399 - Senior Independent Work Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
One-half or one unit of credit given only in exceptional cases and by permission of the Chair. Offered only pass/fail. The department.
Prerequisite(s): four units of Chinese or Japanese.
|
College Course: I. Introductory |
| |
-
CLCS 100 - The Theater of Chekhov and Stanislavski: Higher, Lighter, Simpler, More Joyful
1 unit(s)
This course is designed to explore the major works of late nineteenth-century playwright Anton Chekhov. Through careful reading, discussion, writing, and occasional performance of these works students will discover the ways in which this Russian dramatist has come to shape what’s thought of as modern drama. By looking at each play act by act, Seagull, Three Sisters, Uncle Vanya, and The Cherry Orchard the class will explore the links they share to one another as well as to theatrical tradition at large. The work of Constantine Stanislavski, first to stage these works (as well as the artist to develop the process of “method” acting, and to define the role of the modern stage director), will be used to better understand these plays and their performance. Though this course will be of particular interest to students of theater, non-theater students are encouraged to enroll. Mr. Grabowski.
Open only to freshmen; satisfies college requirement for a Freshman Writing Seminar.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CLCS 101 - Civilization in Question Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as GRST 101 and MRST 101 ) In the past, college curricula in this country were often organized around the idea of the “Great Books” of “Western Civilization.” Today though, the very idea of a Western literary canon has been challenged as a vehicle for reinforcing questionable norms and hierarchies and silencing other important perspectives. In this class we read well-known ancient, medieval and Renaissance texts with a view to how they themselves question the civilizations from which they emerge. A unique feature of this class is that it is taught by faculty from three different disciplines who bring a variety of interpretive practices to bear on the texts. This creates a classroom environment in which dialogue is the means to discovery. Students are encouraged to be part of the conversation both during class and in weekly discussion sections. Readings may include such authors as Homer, Aeschylus, Plato, Augustine, Chretien de Troyes, and Machiavelli. Nancy Bisaha, Rachel Friedman, and Christopher Raymond.
Two 75-minute periods plus extra periods.
|
| |
-
CLCS 182 - Lost in Translation?: Writing the New Self in a Different Language Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
(Same as GERM 182 ) Eva Hoffmann, who emigrated from Poland to Canada at age thirteen, initially experienced the transition from Polish to English as “a dispossession of one’s self.” For her, adapting to a new language and culture involves a balancing act: “how does one bend toward another culture without falling over, how does one strike an elastic balance between rigidity and self-effacement?” This course seeks to study what it means (and has meant) for a variety of non-native speakers to write in English or another second language: from the politics of using “the language of the colonizers,” to personal journeys of self-transformation and loss of identity, to the discovery new aspects of one’s personality in another linguistic and cultural context. Readings include stories, essays, speeches and autobiographies in which authors reflect on what it means to write in a new “tongue.” The course also explores aspects of second language acquisition, including the privilege of the non-native speaker, as well as academic essays on the relationship between language and personal identity. In addition to studying the stylistic conventions of academic writing in English, assignments give students the opportunity to reflect on their own experiences as non-native speakers writing in English and/or their experience working with communities of non-native speakers of English. Karin Maxey.
Open only to freshmen; satisfies the college requirement for a Freshman Writing Seminar.
Readings and discussions in English.
Three 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CLCS 183 - Vassar For Veterans Semester Offered: Fall
0.5 unit(s)
This course is designed to help Posse veterans acclimate to Vassar and introduce them to the array of campus resources available to them. It gives Vassar veterans the opportunity to explore the issues and challenges they face as non-traditional students at a residential liberal arts college, and it identifies strategies for making the transition to college and succeeding within Vassar’s rigorous academic environment. Taught by the Posse Faculty Mentor.
Open to freshmen Posse veterans.
One 2-hour group meeting and one 1-hour individual meeting per week.
|
| |
-
CLCS 186 - The Western Literary Tradition: From Antiquity to the Middle Ages Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
This seminar trains students in intensive English reading and writing skills, while providing an introduction to central elements of Western culture. Readings include Genesis, Homer, Plato, Virgil, Plutarch, and St. Augustine, as well as relevant critical articles and chapters. Different English translations from disparate historical times are introduced and compared in order to show historical and stylistic developments and variations of the English language. The course’s close attention to the varieties of English one may encounter in a college classroom make it particularly suited to students who are non-native speakers. Students give presentations on their readings and write in various formats such as narrative, essay, and explication of texts based on these readings. Haoming Liu.
Open only to freshmen; satisfies the college requirement for a Freshman Writing Seminar.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
College Course: II. Intermediate |
| |
-
CLCS 290 - Field Work
0.5 or 1 unit(s)
|
| |
-
CLCS 298 - Independent Research
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
|
College Course: III. Advanced |
| |
-
CLCS 301 - History, Memory, and Legacies of the Holocaust
1 unit(s)
After WWII the Holocaust emerged as a universal evil that holds lessons beyond the boundaries of Western civilization. While scholars have been relying on different theoretical models to understand the Holocaust, reflection on this unprecedented genocide itself has shifted theoretical discussion in many disciplines. This course looks at the legacies of the Holocaust from a variety of different disciplines by discussing texts, films, and memorials with German students at the University of Potsdam. The exchange takes place at two different levels in the course of the semester: together with their German partners, students discuss readings and work on research projects in the MOO, our online learning environment at Vassar; and in a second phase, Vassar students travel to Berlin and German students to New York to complete on-site research for their projects. Ms. Höhn, Ms. von der Emde, Ms. Zeifman.
By special permission.
One 3-hour period.
|
| |
-
CLCS 302 - Adaptations Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
(Same as ENGL 302 and MEDS 302 ) If works of art continue each other, as Virginia Woolf suggested, then cultural history accumulates when generations of artists think and talk together across time. What happens when one of those artists switches to another language, another genre, another mode or medium? In the twenty-first century we may reframe Woolf’s conversation in terms of intertextuality—art invokes and revises other art—but the questions remain more or less unchanged: What motivates and shapes adaptations? What role does technology play? Audience? What constitutes a faithful adaptation? “Faithful” to what or whom? In this course we consider the biological model, looking briefly at Darwin’s ideas about the ways organisms change in order to survive, and then explore analogies across a range of media. We’ll begin with Virgil’s Georgics; move on to Metamorphoses, Ovid’s free adaptations of classical myths; and follow Orpheus and Eurydice through two thousand years of theater (Euripides, Anouilh, Ruhl, Zimmerman); painting and sculpture (Dürer, Rubens, Poussin, Klee, Rodin); film and television (Pasolini, Cocteau, Camus, Luhrmann); dance (Graham, Balanchine, Bausch); music (Monteverdi, Gluck, Stravinsky, Birtwistle, Glass); narratives and graphic narratives (Pynchon, Delany, Gaiman, Hoban); verse (Rilke, H.D., Auden, Ashbery, Milosz, Heaney, Atwood, Mullen, Strand); and computer games (Battle of Olympus, Shin Megami Tensei). During the second half of the semester, we investigate other adaptations and their theoretical implications, looking back from time to time at what we’ve learned from the protean story of Eurydice and Orpheus and their countless progeny. M. Mark.
Not offered in 2017/18.
One 3-hour period.
|
| |
-
CLCS 383 - Reimagining the Refugee Crisis Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
0.5 unit(s)
We meet once a week for 3-hour workshops and/or strategy sessions to explore readings dealing with advocacy work, best practices in transcultural interactions, and new pedagogical models to connect Vassar students and refugee youth abroad. Working as team, we build on the lessons learned by Vassar students who spent time in Germany last summer working with NGOS and a variety of educational institutions dealing with refugee issues. We also work closely with Bard Berlin and students from our Consortium (Vassar, Bard, Sarah Lawrence and Bennington) who are engaged in refugee work during their JYA year abroad. Maria Höhn.
Prerequisite(s): CLCS 380 or permission of the instructor.
Second six-week course.
One 3-hour period.
|
| |
-
CLCS 384 - Transnational Queer: Genders, Sexualities, Identities
1 unit(s)
(Same as INTL 384 and WMST 384 ) What does it mean to be Queer? This seminar examines, critiques, and interrogates queer identities and constructions in France and North America. In what ways do diverse cultures engage with discourses on gender and sexuality? Can or should our understanding of queerness change depending on cultural contexts? Through guest lectures and discussion seminars, the course examines a broad range of queer cultural production, from fiction to cinema and performance. Topics include such diverse issues as queer bodies, national citizenship, sexual politics, legal discourse, and aesthetic representation. All lectures, readings, and discussions are in English. Vinay Swamy.
Prerequisite(s): Freshman Writing Seminar and one 200-level course.
By special permission.
Not offered in 2016/17.
One 3-hour period.
|
| |
-
CLCS 386 - Refugee Crisis and the Transnational Classroom Semester Offered: Spring
0.5 unit(s)
We meet once a week for 3-hour workshops and/or strategy sessions to explore new models of the transnational classroom. Students work closely as team, as well as with our partners in the Consortium, our partners in Germany at Humboldt University Berlin and the ReDi School, and possibly a school in Lebanon to develop sustainable, shared classroom experiences. Maria Höhn.
Prerequisite(s): CLCS 380 and CLCS 383 .
First six-week course.
One 3-hour period.
|
Computer Science: I. Introductory |
| |
-
CMPU 101 - Computer Science I: Problem-Solving and Abstraction Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Introduces the fundamentals of computer science by introducing the functional programming paradigm, including basic recursive and iterative algorithms, data structures such as lists, vectors and trees. Introduces procedural and data abstraction, and elementary programming patterns. A weekly laboratory period provides guided hands-on experience. The department.
Open to all classes.
Two 75-minute periods plus laboratory.
|
| |
|
| |
-
CMPU 145 - Foundations of Computer Science Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Introduces the theoretical, structural and algorithmic foundations of computer science. Topics include: sets, relations, functions, recursive data structures, recursive functions, induction, structural induction, probability, logic, and boolean algebra. Concepts are reinforced by regular programming assignments. A weekly laboratory period provides guided hands-on experience. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 101 .
Open to all classes.
CMPU 145 and CMPU 102 may be taken in either order or concurrently.
CMPU 145 and CMPU 203 may be taken in either order or concurrently.
Two 75-minute periods plus laboratory.
|
Computer Science: II. Intermediate |
| |
-
CMPU 203 - Computer Science III: Software Design and Implementation Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Develops techniques for design and implementation of complex software systems. Advanced techniques in object-oriented modeling, design patterns, component libraries, inheritance, parametric polymorphism, generic algorithms, containers, iterators, function objects and storage management, with a focus on collaborative software development. Advanced topics in programming and Graphical User Interface (GUI) development are covered. Development of a software system of significant complexity is required. A weekly laboratory period provides guided hands-on experience. The department.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 .
CMPU 203 and CMPU 145 may be taken in either order or concurrently.
Two 75-minute periods plus laboratory.
|
| |
-
CMPU 224 - Computer Organization Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Examines the hierarchical structure of computing systems, from digital logic and microprogramming through machine and assembly languages. Topics include the structure and workings of the central processor, instruction execution, memory and register organization, addressing schemes, input and output channels, and control sequencing. The course includes a weekly hardware/software laboratory where digital logic is explored and assembly language programming projects are implemented.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 and CMPU 145 .
Two 75-minute periods plus laboratory.
|
| |
-
CMPU 235 - Programming Languages Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)
Introduces a systematic approach to understanding the behavior of programming languages. Topics include interpreters; static and dynamic scope; environments; binding and assignment; functions and recursion; continuation passing; parameter-passing and method dispatch; objects, classes, inheritance, and polymorphism; type rules and type checking.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 and CMPU 145
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 240 - Language Theory and Computation Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Study of regular sets, context free grammars and languages, finite and push-down automata, as well as more powerful models of computation, such as Turing machines. Provides theoretical foundations for CMPU 331 .
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 and CMPU 145 .
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 241 - Analysis of Algorithms Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Introduces the systematic study of algorithms and their analysis with regard to time and space complexity. Topics include divide-and-conquer, dynamic programming, greediness, randomization, upper and lower-bound analysis, and introduction to NP completeness. Emphasis is placed on general design and analysis techniques that underlie algorithmic paradigms. Builds a foundation for advanced work in computer science.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 and CMPU 145 .
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 245 - Declarative Programming Models
1 unit(s)
Declarative programming languages are important alternatives to the imperative languages used in most software systems. This course covers two kinds of declarative programming: functional programming and logic programming. Topics include the semantics of declarative languages, techniques for programming in declarative languages, and the use of mathematical logic as a tool for reasoning about programs.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 and CMPU 145 .
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 250 - Modeling, Simulation and Analysis Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)
Principles of computation in the sciences, driven by current applications in biology, physics, chemistry, natural and social sciences, and computer science. Topics include: Discrete and continuous stochastic models, random number generation, elementary statistics, numerical analysis and algorithms, discrete event simulation, and point and interval parameter estimation. Students pursue projects that involve modeling phenomena in two to three different fields and simulate the model in order to understand mechanisms and/or explore new hypotheses or conditions.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 , MATH 122 or MATH 125. CMPU 241 and /or MATH 221 recommended but not required.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 290 - Field Work Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
|
| |
-
CMPU 295 - Special Topics Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
Intermediate-level treatment of specialized topics in computer science.
Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
|
| |
-
CMPU 298 - Independent Work Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
0.5 to 1 unit(s)
Prerequisite(s): permission of the instructor.
|
Computer Science: III. Advanced Two units of 200-level computer science are prerequisite for entry into 300-level courses; see each course for specific courses required or exceptions. |
| |
-
CMPU 300 - Senior Research and Thesis Semester Offered: Fall
0.5 unit(s)
Investigation and critical analysis of a topic in experimental or theoretical computer science. Experimental research may include building or experimentation with a non-trivial hardware or software system. A student electing this course must first gain, by submission of a written research proposal, the support of at least one member of the computer science faculty with whom to work out details of a research strategy. The formal research proposal, a written thesis, and oral presentation of results are required for the course. A second faculty member participates in both the planning of the research and final evaluation.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum 3.5 GPA in 200- and 300-level Computer Science coursework at the end of the junior year, and permission of the department.
Yearlong course 300-CMPU 301 .
|
| |
-
CMPU 301 - Senior Research and Thesis Semester Offered: Spring
0.5 unit(s)
Continuation of CMPU 300 .
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 300 .
Yearlong course CMPU 300 -301.
|
| |
-
CMPU 324 - Computer Architecture
1 unit(s)
An exploration of current research areas in computer organization including an examination of data-flow, microcode, cache memory, distributed, parallel, and other nonstandard architectures, and related topics.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 224 .
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 325 - Microcomputers and Digital Electronics
1 unit(s)
Advanced seminar in the architecture and implementation of microprocessors. Topics include digital logic, memory and processor interfaces, interrupt handling, and serial I/O methods. Differences among logic implementations such as TTL, CMOS, and ECL are considered. Students participate in the design and implementation of a microcomputer.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 224 .
Not offered in 2017/18.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 331 - Compilers Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Studies the theory of automata for language recognition as well as the implementation of actual compilers for programming languages. During the semester students develop modules comprising the front-end of a compiler for a high-level computer.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 224 and CMPU 240 . In addition, CMPU 235 or CMPU 245 is recommended, but not required.
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
-
CMPU 334 - Operating Systems Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
1 unit(s)
Deals with the theory and implementation of the software that governs the management of system resources. Topics that are covered include file organization, process scheduling, system services, memory management, security methods, resource contention, and design principles. Operating systems for parallel and distributed processing, real-time processing, virtual machines, and networking are also considered.
Prerequisite(s): CMPU 203 and CMPU 224 .
Two 75-minute periods.
|
| |
Page: 1 <- 2
| 3
| 4
| 5
| 6
| 7
| 8
| 9
| 10
| 11
| 12
… Forward 10 -> 22 |
|
|
Print this Page