Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT)

This course explores scientific and technical issues important to environmental and energy sustainability. Students study fundamental chemistry and physics and then apply this knowledge to better understand air quality, water quality, and conventional and alternative energy processes. The class also explores the societal impacts of our energy choices and the potential impact we as individuals can have through personal initiative. May be used for general education credit.

This course integrates the study of environmental chemistry, ecology and sustainability science to achieve a conceptual and quantitative understanding of environmental issues including air pollution, climate change, ozone depletion, acid deposition, plastics, waste and biodiversity. This course may be used for general education credit.

This course is an applied introduction to biological systems, as an entry point for the understanding and analysis of biotechnological solutions. Topics include the way in which features of biochemical structure and function, information flow within cells, genetic inheritance, metabolism, and immune responses can be used to solve problems related to disease, food and the environment. May be used for general education credit.

Students will build practical and scientific literacy skills in the context of a life science wet lab. Descriptive and inquiry-based activities will include elements of study design, protocol implementation, and data collection and analysis. Recordkeeping and analytical skills will develop through in-lab documentation and comprehensive reports. May be used for general education credit.

This course provides review and practice in algebra concepts that are needed to successfully complete ISAT 151. Various mathematical models, including trigonometric, are also reviewed. The course is designed for students who possess a basic understanding of algebra but are not proficient in its application.

This course introduces the concepts of differential and integral calculus and ordinary differential equations to model real-world applications in science, business, technology and economics. This course includes a computer laboratory component emphasizing modeling and numerical methods. Course assumes familiarity with algebra and trigonometry. May be used for general education credit.

This course is the computer laboratory portion of GISAT 151: Topics in Applied Calculus in ISAT. It is intended for students who already have AP credit or calculus lecture credit. Students will use numerical methods to solve mathematical modeling and calculus problems with Microsoft Excel. Students will study linear, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, S-curve, and trigonometric models in business and the physical and natural sciences. Permission of instructor or department required.

This course introduces topics in general physics including one- and two-dimensional motion, mechanics, energy, waves, electricity, magnetism, optics, lasers, and early quantum theory. Vectors, algebra, and differential and integral calculus, are used to model physical system behavior. Laboratory experiments and computer exercises enhance understanding of the concepts.

This course examines issues in modern science and technology as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Current scientific and technological research and applications will be introduced to reinforce problem solving, instruction in systems thinking and critical inquiry. The course provides opportunities for using both oral and written communication in a variety of learning activities. May be used for general education credit.

Solutions to human problems are mediated by economic and political institutions, which in turn help to shape technology and science. The course covers basic political and economic concepts, institutions and processes as they relate to American and international science and technology.

Special topics in integrated science and technology which are of interest to the entry-level student. May be repeated for credit when course content changes. Students should consult the instructor prior to enrolling for the course.

Research project on a science and technology topic of interest, as arranged with a faculty research advisor. Projects will include an assessment of the non-technical issues that surround the technical problem.

This course introduces holistic problem solving through the lens of the ISAT major. Skills such as effective teaming, information literacy, systems thinking, stakeholder identification and complex problem analysis are developed.

An exploratory laboratory experience, designed for incoming freshmen. Students will learn about the life cycle and ecology of viruses infecting bacteria. Soil samples will be collected, and techniques for isolation and purification of the viruses will be performed by the students. Isolated viruses will be visualized using electron microscopy. The genomic material will be isolated and prepared for nucleic acid sequencing.

A computer-based laboratory experience, designed for students completing the Viral Discovery course. Students will learn to identify genes in a viral genome, compare the predicted proteins with known proteins in databases, describe the contents of the genome and notate all the relevant information for publication. Students will also research the role of bacteriophages in ecology and evolution.

This course explores the principles of making, designing, integrating and improving production systems by asking the following questions: What is the right way to transform materials and who (or what) determines that? How do political, environmental, social, technological, legal/regulatory, ethical and economic factors impact the way individuals and organizations make, design, integrate and improve? How do production systems affect our ecosystem at different scales, ranging from artisanal craft methods to complex global supply chains and continuous production?  Advanced manufacturing, continuous improvement and sustainable production systems will be explored. Includes a lab component.

Introduction to scientific and economic concepts relevant to energy. Concepts are taught within the context of three or four themes, e.g. residential energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, "make-or-buy" fossil energy application and space power systems. Themes may change from year to year reflecting contemporary issues and opportunities to link with industry and government agencies.

This course introduces statistical thinking - the discipline and methods for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data for making decisions, doing science, and understanding our world. Topics covered include an introduction to data analysis methods, probability and chance, statistical reasoning and inference, and experimental design. The course includes a laboratory component emphasizing hands-on analysis of data taken from a variety of applications in ISAT. May be used for general education credit.

This course is an introduction to computational thinking and formal logic. Students create software to solve problems in applied science, business and engineering taking social context into account. Programming paradigms include procedural, object-oriented and event-driven. Emphasis is placed on effective analysis, planning, documentation, communication and teamwork in professional software development settings.

This course introduces the social aspects of technology and science. It covers social science methods and related philosophical and ethical analyses. Students learn how the practice of science relates to the human-built world and why critical evaluations of science and technology policies are important.

Projects or special topics in integrated science and technology which are of interest to the lower-division student. May be repeated for credit when course content changes. Projects or topics selected may dictate prerequisites. Students should consult the instructor prior to enrolling for the course.

Students will develop skills to apply systems thinking methodology to investigate, define and describe complex problems. They will build a recognition and appreciation of common causal structures that influence the evolution of a problem over time. Structures include interactions between cultural, institutional, natural and technological factors. Collaboration, integration of diverse knowledge sources and project management skills will be emphasized.

This course covers the fundamental nature of measurement in the practice of science and technology. It examines how computing technology is applied to the collection, storage, processing and presentation of data. In addition to discussions about how and why measurements are taken, the uncertainty involved in all measurements and the statistical methods used for analysis will be covered. Students will learn about measurement systems and how they can be networked using wireless and wireline technology for data acquisition. This course includes a project-based lab component focusing on hands-on integration and troubleshooting of networked measurement systems, including computation methods for data analysis and data visualization.

Instrumentation is used to acquire data from representative systems that include mechanical, thermal, solar, chemical and nuclear energy. Students analyze the data to enhance understanding of these forms of energy. Energy transport processes are also characterized. Computer-based data acquisition is emphasized.

Traditional and contemporary analytical laboratory and field techniques used in environmental quality monitoring are surveyed. Emphasis is placed on understanding the physical, chemical and biological basis of these techniques. Hands-on laboratory and field work will be emphasized, in addition to quality control/assurance of environmental data.

The role, function and implementation of sensors, actuators and controls in open and closed loop control systems are explored and implemented in constant process flexible manufacturing systems. Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are emphasized. The synthesis of automation technologies is realized by exploring physical mechatronic systems via hands-on lab experiences using real world equipment.

This course provides a hands-on experience of the techniques and instrumentation used in the modern biotechnology laboratory. Topics include aseptic techniques for establishing microbial cultures, detection and analysis of recombinant DNA molecules, protein purification, SDS gel electrophoresis and the use of PCR technology for genetic analysis.

This course covers the integration of fundamental concepts from physics, chemistry, mathematics and engineering within the context of energy applications. Principles governing energy transformations, transport and conversion, including laws of thermodynamics, chemical and nuclear reactions and thermal science.

This course covers the role of energy in the U.S. and world economies. Geology of energy-valued natural resources: size, quality and economics of domestic and world resource base. Models for energy use by different sectors. The role of energy in global climate change; other energy-related environmental concerns; and the implications for national and international security will be studied.

This course provides the student with a basic understanding of environmental processes, pollution and control technologies. Grounded in ecology and systems thinking, ISAT 320 integrates classroom learning, field-based studies and laboratory analysis of field samples to explore local aquatic and terrestrial environments and contextualize them in broader scientific knowledge.

This course builds on the student's basic understanding of environmental pollution, processes and control technologies in the context of systems thinking and sustainable practices. Content includes solid and hazardous waste and its management, the principles of environmental risk assessment, air quality analysis and management, drinking water and wastewater treatment, and life cycle analysis.

Introduces and applies principles of production planning and control with an emphasis on sustainable production and environmentally conscious manufacturing. Topics include scheduling, inventory control, facility layout, capacity planning, forecasting and lean manufacturing.

This course provides an in-depth treatment and understanding of manufacturing automation and control technologies, material transportation and identification, cyber physical systems, and human factors and ergonomics in manufacturing. Topics include industrial control systems, hardware components for automation and process control, computer numerical control, industrial robotics, programmable logic control (PLC), material transport systems, storage systems, automatic identification and data capture, critical infrastructure, smart cities, cognition, decision making, biomechanics at work, and human computer interaction.

This course provides an introduction to database technology as a component of information systems. The course will introduce students to the design and management of databases through relational database management systems, including the use of Structured Query Language (SQL), forms and reports. Current developments in the role and deployment of a database as part of the application stack will be covered.

Explores the data science and machine learning landscapes by developing and implementing programs capable of learning from data extracted from several knowledge domains. Students will use production ready tools that facilitate model development and deployment to a variety of computing platforms.

This course provides a hands-on introduction to building practical AI systems. Topics include: knowledge representation (propositional and predicate logic), search (local, global, uninformed and informed), planning, machine learning and natural language processing. Programming projects will involve designing intelligent agents that can play various board games using Prolog and Python. The course also discusses societal impacts of current and future AI systems and review state, national and international regulations designed to regulate the development and use of AI systems.

This course covers the scientific foundations and historical development of biotechnology. Specific topics include living system nanotechnology; cell structure and function; origins of genetic engineering; and recombinant DNA technology.

This course is a continuation of ISAT 350 and describes applications of biotechnology in agriculture, industry and medical science as well as associated social, ethical and philosophical issues. Topics include study of an emerging infectious disease, energy transduction in living systems and novel applications of biotechnology.

In this course, students will practice holistic problem-solving approaches to analyze and propose solutions for complex problems that involve a mix of scientific, technological and societal elements. The course will use a variety of case studies that represent real-world problems that significantly impact society. For each case study, students will explore the system dynamics from which the problem emerges and evaluate both short- and long-term consequences of possible solutions.

This course continues the practice of holistic problem-solving initiated in ISAT 390. In this follow-up course, students will operate in a self-guided manner to analyze and propose solutions for complex problems that involve a mix of scientific, technological, and societal elements. Students will explore the system dynamics from which the problem emerges and evaluate both short- and long-term consequences of possible solutions.

This is largely a laboratory course in which students build and program their own instruments. Topics include programming techniques for real-time instrumentation programming; buffered analog and digital input and output; timing considerations; passive analog filters and active analog filters; digital-filtering techniques; and real-time programming issues.

This course is concerned with science and the applications of solar and other renewable technologies, e.g., solar thermal electric, photovoltaics, wind power, biomass-derived alcohols, solar hydrogen and ocean thermal energy conversion Energy storage systems and materials, combined renewable conventional systems for peaking and load management and alternative energy sources for transportation will be studied.

This course is concerned with methods for analyzing the economics, environmental and societal benefits of energy technologies. Topics include optimization techniques, utility planning and finance, cost-benefit techniques, discounting for time and risk, econometric models and input-output analysis. The role of government in determining energy costs supply and markets will be considered.

This course makes detailed examination of new technologies to increase the efficiency of energy conversion, transportation systems and end-use technologies. Examples include MHD, combined-cycle systems, advanced nuclear reactors, intelligent transportation systems, high-efficiency lighting, energy management and utilization of low-temperature heat. Consideration is made of the socioeconomic and governmental barriers to energy efficiency.

Introduction to the sciences of fluid mechanics and heat transfer and the physical laws governing the mechanical behavior of liquids and gasses. Conservation of mass, energy and momentum. Discussion of heat transfer by one-dimensional conduction, convection and radiation. Fluid statics, internal and external fluid flow, pipe networks and heat exchanger analysis.

Study-abroad course examining international energy problems and providing team-oriented project experiences. Addresses energy issues associated with economic and social development. Project participation, tours and meetings with local experts illustrate energy-related problems that are compared with those in the United States.

This course explores applications of mathematical techniques and computer models to the environmental field. The course introduces the principles underlying environmental analysis and modeling, including limitations and pitfalls. Several environmental models and analytical systems are then discussed and applied, using a variety of computational platforms.

This course will familiarize students with basic environmental laws and regulations. The course discusses the purpose of environmental policy, the role of environmental economics in policy decisions and the policy instruments available to environmental regulators. Current federal and state statutes affecting waste disposal, air quality and water quality are discussed.

This course addresses environmental issues faced by industry, including such topics as waste management, chemical inventories, pollution prevention and discharge permitting. Industrial ecology is introduced as an approach to the development of a sustainable industrial society, including treatment of life cycle analysis, design for environment, environmentally conscious manufacturing and ISO14000.

This course will examine chemical, physical, economic and regulatory aspects of the remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater. Topics include chemical properties of major contaminants, environmental site assessments, remediation design, and current and emerging remediation technologies and their limitations in soil and groundwater restoration.

This course focuses on how resource management decisions affect the human and natural communities involved. Topics include definition and importance of natural resources, resource management styles and policies, and planning for resource conservation. Conservation biology is introduced as a tool for developing sustainable resource use policies. Mandatory weekend field trip.

This course integrates the study of surface water and ground water hydrology and examines current technologies used to assess the behavior and quality of water in the environment. Topics include monitoring and management at the watershed level, the influence of wetlands on water quality and the impact of current regulations.

This course provides students with practical experience applying advanced environmental information systems technologies to environmental problems. Students will employ such technologies as decision support systems, geographic information systems, expert systems, relational databases, multimedia systems, and modeling and simulation. This course is often offered in a study-abroad format.

This course provides an introductory survey of the field of industrial hygiene. Chemical hazards are addressed first, focusing on respiratory and dermal exposures, followed by a treatment of physical hazards including sound, radiation and temperature. The course includes industrial case studies illustrating administrative and engineering controls in common use.

Industrial Ecology, the 'science of sustainability', seeks to encourage the development of a sustainable industrial society. This course introduces and examines this relatively new field of inquiry and practice. We address various practical topics which are associated with Industrial Ecology, including Life Cycle Assessment, Design for Environment, and Environmentally Conscious Manufacturing.

This course examines present global environmental impacts and efforts made to change production and consumption patterns toward those that reduce impact on ecosystems or promote increased ecosystems health. The focus lies in understanding the basic resources of productivity including soils, agricultural systems, agroforestry, forestry and aquatic environments and applying solutions on a personal and community level.

The purpose of this class is to introduce chemical and physical properties of materials (metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, sustainable materials), manufacturing processes (casting, finishing, molding, forming, joining, and machining) and automated design and manufacturing. The topics include the following: material properties and product attributes; engineering materials; solidification processes; processing of metals and ceramics; metal forming and sheet metalworking; metal removal processes; property enhancing & surface processing operations; joining and assembly processes.

This course provides an introduction to processes, systems and sustainability improvement in advanced manufacturing. Topics include advanced manufacturing processes and systems, such as additive manufacturing, nano/micro-manufacturing, digital manufacturing, industrial sustainability analysis and systems thinking in sustainable manufacturing.

This course deals with the interplay among requirements specifications, design, economics, environment, energy, materials selection, fabrication, manufacturing cost and product life cycle considerations. Students will complete a product design case study from requirements to final design concept, including translating requirements to design, selecting appropriate materials and choosing between design and production concepts using qualitative and quantitative analytical methods.

This course addresses the questions: What is Lean? What is Six Sigma? How are they different, why do many organizations combine them and how should they be applied in complex industrial/supply chain systems? Students will learn to evaluate process stability, map and model business processes, select and apply appropriate analytical methods, and implement and document the improved process.

Hands-on application of advanced analytical methods selected from topics in supply chain management, forecasting, measurement systems analysis (MSA), quality and process improvement, marketing research and analytics, design of experiments (DOE), and reliability modeling. Data acquisition from enterprise databases and industrial sources and analysis leveraging big data are addressed.

This course focuses on real-world applications of Lean Six Sigma in production and supply chain environments with an emphasis on current events. Students will learn advanced analytical methods and explore the implications of just-in-time production in an increasingly connected and complex global environment.

This course is a holistic approach to the nature of technological innovation as an intrinsic dynamic of human society, with an explicit focus on understanding why innovations succeed or fail and the compelling need for sustainable design. The critical relationship between technical innovation and the design process is explored through case studies that illustrate sustainability-inspired models of technology such as biomimicry, design for environment, appropriate technology, zero waste production systems and human-centered design.

An exploration of the cultural, ethical, legal and social issues inherent in computing. This course is designed to strengthen students' proclivity and ability to consider and communicate about the reciprocal impacts of computing technology on people and the environment, particularly as it pertains to their roles in designing, developing, procuring, implementing or maintaining computing technology within an organization.

The purpose of this class is to introduce students to the use of models to understand, analyze and improve systems in several areas of science and technology through computer simulation modeling techniques.

This course provides a hands-on introduction to building practical AI systems. Topics include: knowledge representation (propositional and predicate logic), search (local, global, uninformed and informed), planning, machine learning and natural language processing. Programming projects will involve designing intelligent agents that can play various board games using Prolog and Python. The course also discusses societal impacts of current and future AI systems and review state, national and international regulations designed to regulate the development and use of AI systems.

Study of means for the development and maintenance of high quality software products delivered on time and within budget. Topics include requirements analysis and specification, software design, implementation, testing, maintenance, project management, ethics, and the responsibilities of software engineering professionals. Focuses primarily on agile software development.

Study of and practice with processes, principles, tools, models, and techniques for designing interactions between humans and digital products and systems. Topics include physiological and psychological factors affecting interaction design, interaction design process, interaction models, styles, and paradigms, design notations and representations, prototyping, and interaction design evaluation.

This course will cover selected emerging topics in applied data science of interests (e.g., automation, data privacy and security, data science in the cloud, artificial neural network and deep learning, natural language processing, text mining). It will help students develop the meta-cognitive skills needed to become proficient in using and identifying new technologies (including programming languages, architectures, modalities, etc.) that may best contribute to solving a problem in an environment in which technologies are changing briskly.

This course illustrates the applications of biotechnology in agriculture and industry, linking scientific discoveries to business and manufacturing practices. Topics include pharmaceutical product development, genetic engineering in agriculture, biotechnology in food processing and regulatory issues.

This course will explore the way in which modern biotechnology can be used as a tool to define and solve problems related to human health. Insights will come through the review and critical analysis of molecular evidence, modeling of the human body and the drug discovery pipeline as complex systems, and an identification and appreciation for stakeholder perspectives.

Students learn how complex biological molecules support and regulate processes in living systems, through building interactive computer models of protein and nucleic acid structure and function. The course requirements include written and oral presentations and creation of Web pages.

This course examines the policies and guidelines of federal government agencies that regulate the use of recombinant DNA technology, genetically engineered organisms and the manufacturing of biotechnology products. Issues of product safety, product labeling, physical and biological containment, environmental release, and mammalian cloning are presented.

The ethical, legal, and social implications of the field of biotechnology and its applications are explored in this course. Students will analyze at an in-depth level the social impacts and ethical implications of human subjects and biological materials research, cloning, human genetic engineering, and transgenic agricultural crops.

This course introduces awareness, science and societal impact of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) agents. Students study the development of vaccines and therapeutic and diagnostic drugs used in the detection and treatment of these agents. The course consists of lectures and safety training sessions that introduce tactical and logistical techniques used against chemical, biological and radiological WMD.

The objectives for this course include understanding local ecology and its impacts on farming, as well as how farming impacts local ecology; practicing diversified farming techniques; understanding how small-scale farms operate as businesses; examining localization and slow-food movements and recognizing the impacts of globalized or industrial food and fiber production; identifying the strengths and limitations of small-scale farming.

This seminar focuses on political ecology as a framework and body of work that examines environmental change, particularly notions of degradation, through analyses of complex social, economic, political and ecological interrelationships. Course materials raise and address questions of how people study and have perceived ways in which human societies and various 'environments' shape one another over time, as well as the contexts in which 'development' efforts are constructed, implemented and, sometimes, abandoned.

Interdisciplinary study of complex system operation, interdependencies, and failure focusing on real-world critical infrastructure systems (e.g., electric power, telecommunications, and health) system response to natural and human-induced hazards, including cascading effects. Examination of risk management strategies including technical and policy solutions.

Topics in integrated science and technology which are of interest to the upper-division student but not otherwise covered in the regular course offerings. Offered only with the approval of the program coordinator. May be repeated for credit when course content changes. Students should consult the instructor prior to enrolling for the course. Topic selected may dictate prerequisite.

This course engages students in key theories, methods and approaches from the field of science, technology and society (STS) and its related fields (history, philosophy, law, sociology, anthropology, political science, economics and communication) to address selected problems at the intersection of science, technology and society.

An interdisciplinary course that looks at the scientific process, science practitioners, and science students through the lens of gender analysis. Students read literature, lead discussions, perform experiments, and analyze both data and processes to address the effects of educational systems on the preparation and careers of scientists, the influence of politics and culture on scientific inquiry, and the effects of critiques grounded in gender analyses on understanding the scientific process.

In the STS futures lab students deepen their knowledge of key theories and methods of the field of science, technology and society. Students conduct independent research on a topic under close mentorship of faculty and within an engaged community of students who are interested in creatively and critically reflecting on the roles of science and technology within society. The futures lab focuses particularly on hands-on practices of anticipating and ethically reasoning about plausible sociotechnical futures and developing skills in cross-disciplinary collaboration and communication. Students also have the opportunity to engage with experts in diverse disciplinary domains through facilitating workshops with invited guest experts to the lab and conducting interviews. Additionally, students can participate in faculty research, develop research publications and participate in conference presentations. The course is repeatable for a maximum of six credit hours.

This is the first of a four-course sequence. Students perform an independent research project, either alone or within an investigative team, to identify and analyze a science- or technology-based problem (broadly defined), culminating in a public presentation at the ISAT Senior Symposium. In this course, students will identify an appropriate problem to investigate for their Capstone experience and assemble a Team to develop their Capstone Proposal.

First course in a three-course sequence. Student generates an idea for and writes a proposal for an independent or team-based research project. Student must identify and analyze a science- or technology-based problem (broadly defined), identify potential solutions, recommend an approach, and prepare a written proposal.

Second course in a three-course sequence. Student performs the bulk of the research needed for an independent research project, either alone or within an investigative team, to address a technologically based problem.

Third course in a three-course sequence. Student finishes the research and prepares an oral and a written report on the work (either alone or within an investigative team), addressing a technologically based problem and developing alternative solutions.

Students explore the importance of design in technology and engineering and contrast the design process with the scientific method. This includes evaluating functional requirements, ergonomics, usability, cost, risk and environmental impact. Students complete a design project integrating these factors to address a real-world problem.

First course of a three-course sequence. Student generates an idea for and writes a proposal for an independent research project that meets the requirements set forth by the Honors program. Student must identify and analyze a science- or technology-based problem (broadly defined), identify potential solutions, recommend an approach, and prepare a written proposal. Fulfills same requirements as ISAT 491.

Second course in a three-course sequence. Student begins the research necessary for an independent research project that meets the requirements set forth by the Honors program. Student pursues the approach described in his or her proposal from ISAT 499A. Fulfills same requirements as ISAT 492.

Third course in a three-course sequence. Student completes the research for and prepares an oral and written presentation of their results for an independent research project that meets the requirements set forth by the Honors program. Student completes and presents (in written and oral form) the project described in his or her proposal from ISAT 499A. Fulfills same requirements as ISAT 493.

A conceptual and descriptive scientific understanding of critical Earth systems and natural resources as they pertain to applied environmental and sustainability management. The course is intended to provide an integrative introductory foundation of knowledge, terminology, models and concepts with respect to the physical, biological and ecological processes that govern life on Earth; to explore the limits that these processes pose for human natural resource use and recovery; and to illustrate the power of humans to disturb the dynamics that support a living planet.

An introduction to the basic principles of project management and key processes including initiating, planning and scheduling a project. The course also explores work collaboration in cross-cultural environments and international settings, where interpersonal communication, organizational cultures and societal norms can affect productive and collegial project collaboration. Important cultural competencies are explained and practiced. The class is conducted in a blended learning environment that incorporates online tutorials, group work, seminar discussions and guided learning exercises. Taught in Malta.

This course introduces the student to the fundamental concepts of applied interdisciplinary science and technology and the methodologies required for using an integrated problem-solving approach in the technical area.

The course is intended to improve the quantitative skills of certain graduate students. Basic mathematical functions and techniques are reviewed, and linear systems topics and numerical analysis techniques introduced. The course meets in tutorial sessions for lectures, discussion and recitation. Does not satisfy graduation requirements for MS ISAT students.

Industrial ecology, the science of sustainability, seeks to encourage the development of a sustainable industrial society. This course introduces and examines this relatively new field of inquiry and practice. The course addresses various practical topics which are associated with industrial ecology, including life cycle assessment, design for environment and environmentally conscious manufacturing. There are additional requirements for graduate students beyond those for undergraduate students enrolled in this dual-level course.

This course provides an interdisciplinary study of complex system operation and failure focusing on real-world critical infrastructure (e.g., energy, telecommunications, health) systems functionality and problems. Based on known threats and hazards, cascading failures that can result in unexpected catastrophes are analyzed. Risk concepts and management strategies are examined.

An in-depth exploration of a complex, existing real-world problem using formal case study analysis. Designed to illustrate the interdisciplinary nature of difficult problems and to foster integrated problem-solving through the application of systems thinking and structured problem analysis techniques. Course is taught in a discussion and seminar format.

This course focuses on the exploration and analysis of case studies in the development of sustainable energy policies and practices around the world, including renewable and non-renewable energy sources and conservation practices. Connections of energy sustainability to other key areas, such as water, air and waste, agriculture and food and coastal resources will be emphasized. Offered in Malta.

This course focuses on the exploration and analysis of case studies in the development of sustainable air and waste policies and practices around the world, including air pollution abatement, waste disposal and the interconnection of air and waste. Connections of air and waste sustainability to other key areas, such as water, energy, agriculture and food and coastal resources will be emphasized. Offered in Malta.

This course focuses on the exploration and analysis of case studies in the development of sustainable agriculture and food security policies and practices around the world, including food safety and land use. Connections of agricultural sustainability to other key areas, such as water, energy, air and waste and coastal resources will be emphasized. Offered in Malta.

This course focuses on the exploration and analysis of case studies in the development of sustainable water policies and practices around the world, including potable water supply and production and water pollution. Connections of water sustainability to other key areas, such as agriculture and food, energy, air and waste and coastal resources will be emphasized. Offered in Malta.

An exploration of biodiversity conservation as an essential element of sustainability. Reviews current state of biodiversity worldwide, highlighting patterns and trends in relation to genetic, species and ecosystem diversity. Options for mitigating the driving forces of biodiversity loss are critically discussed in terms of their feasibility, including the fundamental conservation biology principles that underpin conservation initiatives. In situ and ex situ conservation options, as well as planning strategies for terrestrial and aquatic/marine ecosystems, are addressed. Offered in Malta.

Processes, principles, tools, models and techniques for designing interactions between humans and digital products and systems. Students will learn through directed reading, design exercises, heuristic design evaluations and empirical studies of designs.

This course will allow graduate and advanced undergraduate students to undertake intensive study of selected topics that are of special interest. May be repeated when content changes.

Critical perspectives on the economic and political systems as they affect scientific research and technological activity in the U.S. and the world. Case studies of major public policy debates involving science and technology. Identifying institutional players and their value commitments, describing political relationships among players, and designing dynamic solutions to social context dilemmas.

As the first course in a two-course sequence, this course is an introduction to defining principles of environmental management and sustainability in the context of complex coupled social-ecological systems (SES) and the interdependence of people and nature at a variety of nested scales. Through examples, students analyze interactions between humans and their landscapes over time using different SES frameworks and related concepts, including planetary boundaries, resilience, robustness, ecosystem services and panarchy. The crucial role of personal ethical decision-making frameworks will be further analyzed, exploring the moral dimensions of a number of sustainability-related decision-making situations.

As the second course in a two-course sequence, this course continues to work through defining principles of environmental management and sustainability in the context of complex coupled social-ecological systems (SES) and the interdependence of people and nature at a variety of nested scales. Through continuing examples, students analyze interactions between humans and their landscapes over time using different SES frameworks and related concepts, including planetary boundaries, resilience, robustness, ecosystem services and panarchy. Personal ethical decision-making frameworks will be further analyzed, continuing to explore the moral dimensions of several sustainability-related decision-making situations.

This course introduces students to the basic principles of international and national environmental law, policy and regulation as it pertains to sustainability. Critical distinctions in environmental policy and sustainability policy are made, and the issues of governance for each are explored. Common problem domains of law and policy are explored, including externalities and pollution, common pool resources and resource overharvest, and biodiversity loss and landscape functioning. Transboundary environmental problems are addressed in depth.

This unit introduces the science of systems modeling, as practiced in the field of system dynamics. Students will learn how to apply causal feedback analysis in order to describe problems and challenges in sustainability using the language and tools of system dynamics. Students will learn how to develop and evaluate a dynamic hypothesis for the dynamic behavior of a system over time, with applications taken from fisheries, farming practices, economics and climate change. Students will also be introduced to stock and flow modeling as a method for accounting for system states, inertia and delays in system behavior.

This course focuses on the interactions of human and physical environments and is framed around the urgency of global challenges that arise from these interactions. Beginning with an examination of the origins of and implications for the perceived separation of humans and nature, the course employs case studies to scale resource identification and use, environmental and human vulnerability, and how these may impact technological designs and the potential for impact on human and natural systems. Discussions of sustainability include underrepresented and marginalized human communities. The analysis of political and economic power in globalized settings provides frameworks and tools related to environmental justice, social justice and economic equity. Qualitative analytical skills are emphasized.

Use of simulation tools to understand and optimize commonly occurring systems in the concentration areas. Development of simulation models, validation of models and use of models to aid decision making. Topics include: applicability and limitations of simulation models; the model-building process; discrete-event models; dynamic models; deterministic and stochastic models; system optimization and validation.

This course develops the skills and conceptual framework that enable students to become effective practitioners in the use of data to solve practical problems. The topics will include specialized analytical methods and techniques such as exploratory data analysis, data wrangling, descriptive statistics, time series analysis, modeling and simulation, machine learning, regression, classification, hypothesis testing, and data visualization. Students complete structured instructional modules focused on methods of collecting, analyzing and interpreting data relevant to fields in integrated science and technology. Skills for data exploration, analysis and project management will be developed through analysis of real-world datasets.

This course focuses on the acquisition, representation, storage, retrieval and distribution of data, information and knowledge from both a historical and contemporary perspective. It places special emphasis on IKM technology in science and technology and the information economy, the management of data, information and knowledge as critical enterprise assets. Students will study computer systems as tools for information and knowledge management and examine ethical, legal and social issues in the management of data, information and knowledge, including intellectual property, privacy and security.

This course develops the skills and conceptual framework for students to be able to effectively gather and use spatial data across a range of disciplines in science and technology. It focuses on the use of geographic information systems (GIS), including remote sensing, for analysis and decision support. Students gain skills in the use of GIS and learn about the social and ethical dimensions of its practice. Spatial problem-solving is conducted in a variety of areas, such as land use, energy, transportation, manufacturing, health, agriculture and natural resources.

The course will introduce the policy process affecting regulation and deregulation of various industries. Study of the theory behind and the institutional forms of regulation will be supplemented by case studies of specific industries. The course will also look at international politics and trade as they affect regulatory regimes globally.

This course will introduce students to methods, tools and techniques for effective management of technology development and application including management of technology within a company; R&D management; Test and Evaluation procedures and metrics; investment strategies; intellectual property issues; fostering entrepreneurialism; managing innovation; and technology transfer. The course will also address managing technology as a tool, e.g., equipment modernization.

This course will introduce students to the theory and methods of technology assessment and transfer. Students will apply techniques such as risk analysis, cost-benefit analysis, forecasting, trend impact analysis and technology sequence analysis to assess the impacts of new technologies on society. In addition, students will study the process of technology innovation, diffusion and transfer in the context of both developed and developing nations.

This course is centered around field experiences at one or more sites in the US and abroad. Selected sites provide the student with opportunities to observe systems described across the curriculum in situ and apply quantitative and qualitative methodology fieldwork in the US and abroad. Site work combines lectures, hands-on projects and analytical presentations. This experience reinforces techniques learned and developed across the program course content applied to experiences and applications in the field.

This course examines the organizational and technological foundations of information systems in a production operations setting. Topics include selecting and implementing tools and systems, database management, information integration, production planning and execution systems, supply chain integration and management, and managing system security.

This course will make students aware of the global nature of scientific and technological decision-making and sensitive to the impact of culture on science and technology issues. The research and development system of the United States is placed in a global context. A comparative study of the R&D systems around the world is done. International technical issues, where solutions transcend political boundaries, are covered.

This course is the first course of a two-course, four-credit sequence addressing the use of energy, water and air resources, focusing on the role of these resources in environmental, social and economic systems, together with pressures and impacts exerted through their use and related remediation tools. The units will together provide students with a comprehensive understanding of methodologies and technologies in these various sectors and of cross-sectorial linkages.

This course is the second course of a two-course, four-credit sequence addressing the use of energy, water and air resources, focusing on the role of these resources in environmental, social and economic systems, together with pressures and impacts exerted through their use and related remediation tools. The units will together provide students with a comprehensive understanding of methodologies and technologies in these various sectors and of cross-sectorial linkages.

This course is the first of a two-course, four-credit sequence that will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of concepts and methodologies related to industrial ecology and sustainable industrial systems. In this course, students will be introduced to materials and common industrial systems and will explore the relationships between industry and environmental systems, including climate change. Social and economic dimensions of industrial sustainability will also be discussed. Students will then be introduced to fundamental concepts of industrial ecology, including industrial metabolism and the ecological metaphor. Aspects of sustainable engineering, risk assessment and risk management will also be discussed. The unit will also introduce students to the methodology of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The unit content will be directly linked to field trips to relevant industrial partners in the US.

This course is the second of a two-course, four-credit sequence that will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of concepts and methodologies related to industrial ecology and sustainable industrial systems. In this course, students will build on their understanding of industrial sustainability to explore in more detail sustainability tools and methodologies that are relevant to industry. In particular, students will explore methodologies for carrying out a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and will obtain a detailed understanding of the four main stages of the process. Students will also be introduced to principles of green manufacturing and green supply chains, as well as exploring aspects of sustainable product development, product recovery management and resource-saving opportunities in the industry. Other relevant metrics and assessment tools, such as environmental risk assessment and energy audits, will also be covered. Climate change will be considered as a cross-cutting theme. The unit content will be directly linked to field trips to relevant industrial partners in Malta.

This course is the first course of a two-course, four-credit sequence in which students will consider different concepts of the term biodiversity and different methods for measuring biodiversity. Global spatial and temporal patterns of biodiversity will be explored, including an overview of the world's major biomes. The relevance of scale to an understanding of biodiversity patterns will be discussed. The unit will further discuss the importance of consumptive and non-consumptive values of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services, as well as introducing major contemporary direct and indirect threats to biodiversity, including climate change. Different methods employed for conserving biodiversity will then be introduced, with emphasis on the conservation of forest, grassland and stream environments, to be explored through case studies and related field trips. The role of protected areas for in situ conservation will also be introduced, including US federal protected areas (wilderness areas, national monuments, national parks), agricultural land easements and restoration projects in built environments.

This course is the second of a two-course, four-credit sequence in which students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the science of biodiversity and its conservation and build on the foundational knowledge acquired throughout the first semester. This course will introduce taxonomy and systematics and its critical role in furthering our understanding of biodiversity and evolutionary dynamics. The unit will also explore core theory and principles of biogeography (with emphasis on island biogeography) and population ecology, community ecology and landscape ecology. The unit will then focus on understanding how this science is translated into practical ecosystem management and conservation planning and management decisions, including critical discussion of the cultural and ethical dimensions of such decisions and of contentious issues in conservation, including processes of conservation triage, rewilding and de-extinction. Methods for conserving biodiversity will also be discussed, with a specific focus on the conservation of marine and coastal environments, to be explored through case studies and related field trips. The unit will also continue to explore the role of protected areas as a conservation tool, focusing in particular on the European Natura 2000 network and on Marine Protected Areas.

This course is the first of a two-course, four-credit sequence that will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenge of meeting a growing global demand for food while remaining within the boundaries of environmental systems. In this first course, the students will first focus on soil as a key element in regenerative agricultural systems through an introduction to relevant aspects of soil science, focusing on soil types, soil biology and related management practices in the United States. Students will then be introduced to different types of agriculture and agricultural systems. An overview of present dominant food production methods will be provided, specifically monoculture and chemically-based agriculture systems and related issues such as corporate control of seed and mechanization. Options for regenerative agriculture are then examined, exploring ways to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services while maintaining production. The unit will thus familiarize students with the differences between conventional and regenerative agricultural approaches, and with their respective roles with respect to climate change impacts, mitigation and adaptation. Relevant aspects of US agricultural policy will also be outlined. The unit content will be linked to a variety of field trips and will be further supplemented through interactions with relevant stakeholders in the sector.

This course is the second of a two-course, four-credit sequence that will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenge of meeting a growing global demand for food while remaining within the boundaries of environmental systems. The two courses will together provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenge of meeting a growing global demand for food while remaining within the boundaries of environmental systems. In this second course, students will build on the concepts introduced to explore in further detail the various challenges of managing soil to ensure regenerative agricultural systems, with a particular focus on Maltese soils and related management practices. Specific focus will be given to soil pollution and remediation techniques. Students will also explore a range of alternative agricultural production systems, in addition to those already introduced in the first semester, focusing on approaches suited to small-scale settings, including hydroponics and urban agricultural systems. Food production will also be discussed in the context of wider food security and land management challenges, particularly within a small island state setup. The unit will also introduce relevant aspects of European agricultural policy. The unit content will be linked to a variety of field trips and will be further supplemented through interactions with relevant stakeholders in the sector.

Opportunity for supervised reading and research in areas of special interest to the student. Reading and research may be done only in the major field of study.

The capstone project provides students with the opportunity to undertake a directed project at the master's level, applying both theoretical content and skills learned throughout the course of study to implement a project that has relevance within the field of study. Based on the guidance of the program coordinators, students will select a capstone topic within a subject area of particular interest to them (provided that appropriate expertise for supervision is available). Coupled with coursework that is part of the program of study, students will apply elements of project management and analytical knowledge to individual and/or group projects.

The course prepares students for planning and completing their master's thesis. Topics include problem definition, research question, literature review, research methods and thesis planning process. All students draft a thesis proposal. The course must be completed within the first 12 credit hours of the student's program of study.

Continued preparation in anticipation of the comprehensive examination. Course may be repeated as necessary.

Continued study, research and writing effort on the thesis or capstone project. Continuance credits carry no credit hour production and do not count toward graduate program requirements. Students who have registered for six hours of thesis/project credit but have not finished must be enrolled in this course each semester until the completed thesis/project has been approved by the student's committee. May be repeated as needed.

The thesis provides students with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project at the master's level, applying both theoretical content and skills learned throughout the course to propose and implement a project that has practical relevance within the field of study. Based on the guidance of the program coordinators, students will select a research topic within a subject area of particular interest to them (provided that appropriate expertise for supervision is available). Coupled with coursework that is part of the program of study, students will apply elements of project management and basic statistical analysis to their individual projects.