University/Interdisciplinary Studies Courses (UNIV)

Related Catalog Entry: University Programs

100 University 100 (1:1:0). A one-credit course offered during the fall semester to assist freshmen with their transition to college life. This success-oriented course helps students adjust academically, develop decision-making skills, and learn about the services and opportunities for involvement at George Mason. Although all the classes have a core body of knowledge, each class specializes in a particular aspect of college life. The team development courses at Hemlock Overlook are a component of every section. There are approximately 20 students in each class.

132 Development of Scientific Thought (3:3:0). An understanding of scientific principles that underlie significant issues that face our society (i.e., environment, energy, health, and new technologies). The course integrates concepts of physics, chemistry, geology, and biology, and emphasizes the role that these concepts play in everyday life.

190 Freshman Seminar (3:3:0). Broad interdisciplinary subjects taught by Robinson Professors. Topics vary. Enrollment is by invitation only. Courses may be repeated for up to 12 credit hours.

301 Great Ideas in Science (3:3:0). A nontechnical introduction to the ideas that have shaped the growth of science from the building of Stonehenge to the modern theories of the Big Bang. The idea behind each major advance is treated in its historical context, with special attention to its importance in mankind's understanding of the nature of the universe. Examples are taken from the physical, geological, and biological sciences. The course is intended for nonscience majors and uses little mathematics.

390 University Seminar (3:3:0). Broad interdisciplinary subjects taught by distinguished faculty scholars, including the Robinson Professors. Topics vary. Enrollment is by invitation only. Courses may be repeated for up to 12 credit hours.

441 AIDS: Its Impact in Our Society (3:3:0). Designed to give students an in-depth understanding of the medical and social matters surrounding HIV disease. Topics include progression of the disease, epidemiology, global AIDS, economic/financial consequences, and end-of-life issues. Students are provided with current information and presentations from university faculty and community experts working in HIV services.

498 Directed Readings in Interdisciplinary Studies (3:0:0).Prerequisite: Open only to degree students in the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies program. Individualized sections by arrangement. A grade of C or better is required.

499 Senior Thesis in Interdisciplinary Studies (3:0:0).Prerequisite: UNIV 498. Open only to degree students in the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies program. Individualized sections by arrangement. A grade of C or better is required.