Intended for students (with limited chemistry background) who wish to gain a better understanding of the chemistry in the world around them. The course will cover aspects of atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, what chemical names mean, balancing equations (and the relationships involved), acids and bases, nuclear chemistry, radiation and organic compounds. The concepts will be examined in the context of understanding "everyday" chemistry. SCI 1831 cannot be used to satisfy requirements of any Faculty of Science, Applied Science, and Engineering program.

Designed for the non-scientist. Examines the basic geological forces that shape the earth's surface and our environment. Subjects include volcanism, earthquakes, erosion, soils, groundwater, rivers, coastlines, deserts, landslides, and the earth's past, present and possible future climates.

Overview of physics and astronomy from the perspective of historic development and fundamental principles of science. Topics include: concepts of force, energy and wave; survey of astronomy tracing development of our view of the universe. Offered in alternate years with SCI 1862 (Shaping the Earth’s Surface). 

People have been entering space since 1961, with the flight of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. Now with the passage of more than half a century, it is worth reflecting on what human spaceflight has accomplished, how it is achieved, and what challenges it faces moving forward.

An overview of women’s historical and contemporary participation in science, issues in science and math education, feminist critiques and theories on science and gender, and the impact of technology on women’s lives.

An examination of the effects of the status of women, poverty, population growth and economics on the state of the environment and conservation in developing nations. Environmental issues to be discussed include: over cultivation and deforestation, over fishing, poaching, antibiotic resistance, migration, biodiversity, extinction and resource depletion.