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Course Descriptions



The following courses are offered through Distance Learning at Gadsden State Community College. These courses may be offered as an Internet class, a Hybrid class (combination internet with an on-campus component), or a Video class. Please see the Schedule of Classes for specific information concerning course offerings and formats. Please contact the appropriate Division Chair for additional information.

BIO 103 Principles of Biology I 4 hours : 3t, 2e
This is an introductory course for science and non-science majors. It covers physical, chemical, and biological principles common to all organisms. These principles are explained through a study of cell structure and function, cellular reproduction, basic biochemistry, cell energetics, the process of photosynthesis, and Mendelian and molecular genetics. Also included are the scientific method, basic principles of evolution, and an overview of the diversity of life with emphasis on viruses, prokaryotes, and protista. A 120-minute laboratory is required.

BIO 104 Principles of Biology II 4 hours : 3t, 3e
This is an introduction to the basic ecological and evolutionary relationships of plants and animals and a survey of plant and animal diversity including classification, morphology, physiology, and reproduction. A 180-minute laboratory is required. PREREQUISITE: BIO 103.

BIO 120 Medical Terminology 3 hours : 3t
This course is a survey of words, terms, and descriptions commonly used in medical arts. Emphasis is placed on spelling, pronunciation, and meanings of prefixes, suffixes, and roots. No laboratory is required.

BIO 150 Human Biology 3 hours : 3t
This course introduces the human body with emphasis on structure, function, and pathology. No laboratory is required.

BIO 201 Human Anatomy and Physiology I 4 hours : 3t, 2e
This course covers the structure and function of the human body. Included is an orientation of the human body, basic principles of chemistry, a study of cells and tissues, metabolism, joints, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems, and the senses. Dissection, histological studies, and physiology are featured in the laboratory experience. A 120-minute laboratory is required.

BIO 202 Human Anatomy and Physiology II 4 hours : 3t, 2e
This course covers the structure and function of the human body. Included is a study of basic nutrition, basic principles of water, electrolyte and acid-base balance, the endocrine, respiratory, digestive, excretory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, and reproductive systems. Dissection, histological studies, and physiology are featured in the laboratory experience. A 120-minute laboratory is required. PREREQUISITE: BIO 201.

BUS 241 Principles of Accounting I 3 hours
This course is designed to provide a basic theory of accounting principles and practices used by services and merchandising enterprises. Emphasis is placed on financial accounting, including the accounting cycle, and financial statement preparation analysis.

BUS 242 Principles of Accounting II 3 hours
This course is a continuation of BUS 241. In addition to a study of financial accounting, this course also places emphasis upon managerial accounting, with coverage of corporations, statement analysis, introductory cost accounting, and use of information for planning, control, and decision making. PREREQUISITE: BUS 241.

BUS 263 The Legal and Social Environment of Business 3 hours
This course provides an overview of the legal and social environment for business operations with emphasis on contemporary issues and their subsequent impact on business. Topics include the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the legislative process, civil and criminal law, administrative agencies, trade regulations, consumer protection, contracts, employment, personal property.

BUS 271 Business Statistics I 3 hours
This is an introductory study of basic statistical concepts applied to economic and business problems. Topics include the collection, classification, and presentation of data, statistical description and analysis of data, measures of central tendency and dispersion, elementary probability, sampling, estimation and introduction to hypotheses testing. PREREQUISITE: Two years of high school Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, or appropriate score on Math Placement Test.

BUS 272 Business Statistics II 3 hours
This course is a continuation of BUS 271. Topics include sampling theory, statistical inference, regression and correlation, chi-square, analysis of variance, time series index numbers, and decision theory. PREREQUISITE: BUS 271.

CET 100 Engineering Blueprints 3 hours : 3t
This course introduces the student to the various types of engineering drawings. Topics include architectural, civil, electrical, electronic, and mechanical engineering blueprints. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify techniques, symbols, language, and purpose of the engineering drawings covered. PREREQUISITE: As required by program.

CET 105 Introduction to Water Treatment Process 3 hours : 3t
This course is designed to train prospective water treatment plant operators and managers in the practical aspects of operating and maintaining water treatment plants, with emphasis on the use of safe practices and procedures. Students will learn how to safely operate and maintain coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection processes. They will also learn how to control tastes and odors in drinking water, control corrosion to meet the requirements of the Lead and Copper Rule, perform basic water laboratory procedures, and solve arithmetic problems commonly associated with water treatment plant operations. PREREQUISITE: As required by program.

CET 106 Introduction to Wastewater Treatment Process 3 hours : 3t
This course is designed to train prospective wastewater treatment plant operators and managers in the practical aspects of operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants, with emphasis on the use of safe practices and procedures. Students will learn how to operate and maintain racks, screens, comminutors, sedimentation tanks, trickling filters, rotating biological contactors, package activated sludge plants, oxidation ditches, ponds, and chlorination facilities. Students will also learn how to analyze and solve operational problems and how to perform mathematical calculations relating to wastewater treatment process control. PREREQUISITE: As required by program.

CET 111 Fundamentals of Surveying 3 hours : 1t, 4e
This course introduces the theory and practice of plane surveying and presents the basics associated with measuring angles and distances. Topics include the care and use of instruments, taping, differential and profile leveling, transit, stadia, and transit-tape surveys. Upon completion, students will be able to apply the theory and practice of plane surveying to determine boundaries, areas, and volumes of land measurements. PREREQUISITE: As required by program. CORE

CET 112 Intermediate Surveying 3 hours : 2t, 2e
This course is a continuation of CET 111, with emphasis on route surveying. Topics include design and layout of horizontal and vertical curves, super elevation, and site distances. Upon completion, students will be able to design and to lay out roadways. PREREQUISITE: CET 111. CORE

CET 120 Sanitary Chemistry and Biology 3 hours : 2t, 2e
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the fundamentals of microbiology and chemistry applicable to water and wastewater management. Emphasis is on laboratory procedures pertinent to water/wastewater treatment. Upon course completion, students should be able to perform relevant laboratory procedures. PREREQUISITE: As required by program.

CHD 201 Child Growth and Development Principles 3 hours
This course is a systematic study of child growth and development from conception through early childhood. Emphasis is placed on principles underlying physical, mental, emotional, and social development and on methods of child study and practical implications. Upon completion, students should be able to use knowledge of how young children differ in their development and approaches to learning to provide opportunities that support the physical, social, emotional, language, cognitive, and aesthetic development of children.

CHD 208 Administration of Child Development Programs 3 hours
This course includes appropriate administrative policies and procedures relevant to preschool programs. Topics include local, state, and federal regulations; budget planning; record keeping; personnel policies; and parent involvement. Upon completion, students should be able to identify elements of a sound business plan, to demonstrate familiarity with basic record keeping techniques, and to identify elements of a developmentally appropriate program.

CHD 210 Educating Exceptional Young Children 3 hours : 2t, 2e
This course explores the many different types of exceptionalities found in young children. Topics include speech, language, hearing, and visual impairments; gifted and talented children; mental retardation; and emotional, behavioral, and neurological handicaps. Upon completion, students should be able to identify appropriate strategies for working with young exceptional children.

CHD 214 Families and Communities 3 hours
This course will provide students information about how to work with diverse families and communities. students will be introduced to family and community settings, their important relationship to children, and the pressing needs of today’s society. Students will study and practice techniques for developing these important relationships and effective communication skills.

CHD 217 Math and Science for Young Children 3 hours
This course will provide students information on children’s conceptual development and the fundamental basic concepts of both math and science. Students will learn various techniques for planning, implementing and evaluating developmentally appropriate activities. Students will also learn more about the integrated curriculum.

CHM 104 Introduction to Inorganic Chemistry 4 hours : 3t, 3e
This is a survey course of general chemistry for students who do not intend to major in science or engineering; it may not be substituted for CHM 111. Lecture will emphasize the facts, principles, and theories of general chemistry including math operations, matter and energy, atomic structure, symbols and formulas, nomenclature, the periodic table, bonding concepts, equations, stoichiometry, gas laws, phases of matter, solutions, pH, and equilibrium reactions. Laboratory is required. PREREQUISITE: MTH 098 or equivalent math placement score.

CIS 146 Microcomputer Applications 3 hours
This course is an introduction to the most common microcomputer software applications. These software packages should include typical features of applications, such as word processing, spreadsheets, database management, and presentation software. Upon completion, students will be able to utilize selected features of these packages. This course will help prepare students for the MOUS and IC 3 certification.

CIS 147 Advanced Micro Applications 3 hours
This course is a continuation of CIS 146 in which students utilize the advanced features of topics in CIS 146 and introduce additional topics of office suite software. Advanced features of word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation packages among other topics are generally incorporated into the course and are to be applied to situations found in society and business. Upon completion, the student should be able to apply the advanced features of selected software appropriately to typical problems found in society and business. PREREQUISITE: CIS 146.

CIS 250 E-Commerce 3 hours
This course is an introduction to the e-commerce. The topics included in this course are creating a successful Web presence, building an electronic commerce store, electronic security, electronic payment systems, and electronic commerce environment. Upon completion, the student will be able to demonstrate knowledge of ecommerce through the completion of assignments and appropriate tests. PREREQUISITE: Permission of instructor.

CIS 281 Systems Analysis and Design 3 hours
This course is a study of contemporary theory and systems analysis and design. Emphasis is placed on investigating, analyzing, designing, implementing, and documenting computer systems. Upon completion, the student will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the topics through the completion of programming projects and appropriate tests. PREREQUISITE: Prior programming experience.

ECO 231 Principles of Macroeconomics 3 hours
This course is an introduction to macroeconomic theory, analysis, and policy applications. Topics include the following: scarcity, demand and supply, national income analysis, major economic theories concerning monetary and fiscal policies as stabilization measures, the banking system, and other economic issues or problems including international trade.

ECO 232 Principles of Microeconomics 3 hours
This course is an introduction to microeconomic theory, analysis, and applications. Topics include scarcity the theories of consumer behavior, production and cost, markets, output and resource pricing, and international aspects of microeconomics.

ENG 101 English Composition I 3 hours
English Composition I provides instruction and practice in the writing of at least six (6) extended compositions and the development of analytical and critical reading skills and basic reference and documentation skills in the composition process. English Composition I may include instruction and practice in library usage. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of ENG 093, or a score of 62 or better on the English writing section and successful completion the reading section of ACT COMPASS, or a score of 20 or better on the ACT (or equivalent SAT score).

ENG 102 English Composition II 3 hours
English Composition II provides instruction and practice in the writing of six (6) formal, analytical essays, at least one of which is a research project using outside sources and/or references effectively and legally. Additionally, English Composition II provides instruction in the development of analytical and critical reading skills in the composition process. English Composition II may include instruction and practice in library usage. PREREQUISITE: A grade of "C" or better in ENG 101 or the equivalent.

ENG 251 American Literature I 3 hours
This course is a survey of American literature from its inception to the middle of the nineteenth century. Emphasis is placed on representative works and writers of this period and on the literary, cultural, historical, and philosophical forces that shaped these works and that are reflected in them. Upon completion and in written compositions, students will be able to interpret the aesthetic and thematic aspects of these works, relate the works to their historical and literary contexts, and understand relevant criticism and research. PREREQUISITE: ENG 102 or equivalent.

ENG 252 American Literature II 3 hours
This course is a survey of American literature from the middle of the nineteenth century to the present. Emphasis is placed on representative works and writers of this period and on the literary, cultural, historical, and philosophical forces that shaped these works and that are reflected in them. Upon completion and in written compositions, students will be able to interpret the aesthetic and thematic aspects of these works, relate the works to their historical and literary contexts, and understand relevant criticism and research. PREREQUISITE: ENG 102 or equivalent.

ENG 261 English Literature I 3 hours
This course is a survey of English literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the Romantic Age. Emphasis is Emphasis is placed on representative works and writers of this period and on the literary, cultural, historical, and philosophical forces that shaped these works and that are reflected in them. Upon completion and in written compositions, students will be able to interpret the aesthetic and thematic aspects of these works, relate the works to their historical and literary contexts, and understand relevant criticism and research. PREREQUISITE: ENG 102 or equivalent.

GEO 100 World Regional Geography 3 hours : 3t
This course surveys various countries and major regions of the world with respect to location and landscape, world importance, political status, population, type of economy, and its external and internal organization problems and potentials.

HEC 140 Principles of Nutrition 3 hours
This course introduces students to the principles of nutrition and the role and functions of nutrients in man's food. Basic information concerning food selection and nutrition as factors in health, ecology, and economy is included. Implications of nutrition for children may be stressed.

HEC 250 Management in Family Living 3 hours
This course covers goals and values in family living, basic principles of decision making, and management of resources to achieve goals in family life.

HED 224 Personal and Community Health 3 hours
This course covers health problems for the individual and for the community. Areas of study include mental health, family life, physical health, chronic and degenerative diseases, control of communicable diseases, and the understanding of depressants and stimulants. Healthful living habits will be emphasized.

HIS 101 Western Civilization I 3 hours
This course is a survey of social, intellectual, economic, and political developments that have molded the modern western world. The course covers the ancient and medieval periods and concludes in the era of the Renaissance and Reformation.

HIS 102 Western Civilization II 3 hours
This course is a continuation of HIS 101; it surveys the development of the modern western world from the era of the Renaissance and Reformation to the present.

HIS 201 United States History I 3 hours
This course surveys United States history during the colonial, revolutionary, early national, and antebellum periods. It concludes with the Civil War and Reconstruction.

HIS 202 United States History II 3 hours
This course is a continuation of HIS 201; it surveys United States history from the Reconstruction era to the present.

HIS 216 History of World Religions 3 hours
This course presents a comparison of the major religions of the world from a historical perspective. Emphasis is placed on the origin, development, and social influence of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others.

HUM 299A Humanities for Technology 3 hours
This course, a special offering for technology students, provides an opportunity for the student to study selected topics in the area of the humanities under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Specific humanities topics related to technology will be determined by the interests of the students and the instructor. Note: This course may not transfer to four year schools.

MSG 100 History & Theory 1 hour: 1t
In this course, students learn the origin of massage as well as the types of massage that have existed in all parts of the world for thousands of years up to the present. Emphasis is placed on the benefits of massage, contraindications, client interviews, and client-therapist relationship. In addition to Massage History, students will receive theories and research data that substantiate the efficacy of massage for our modern day. Information will be provided explaining the theory and value of such techniques as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, neuromuscular therapy, somatic re-education, myofascial release, and integration.

MSG 156 Career and Personal Development 2 hours: 2t
During this course, students are also taught ethical business management and professional development. This course is designed to help students to prepare for ethical decision making in professional practice while assisting in the development of their emerging identities as professional licensed massage therapists. Emphasis is placed on building and retaining clientele, communication skills, customer services, continuing education and setting goals. Upon completion, the student should be able to list types of communication skills, state personal goals, and develop a continuing education plan.

MTH 100 Intermediate College Algebra 3 hours : 3t
This course provides a study of algebraic techniques such as linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations, systems of equations, and operations with exponents and radicals. Functions and relations are introduced and graphed with special emphasis on linear and quadratic functions. This course does not apply toward the general core requirement for mathematics. PREREQUISITE: A grade of "C" or higher (S if taken as pass/fail) in MTH 092 (Developmental Algebra II) or MTH 098 (Elementary Algebra) or appropriate mathematics placement score.

MTH 110 Finite Mathematics 3 hours : 3t
This course is tended to give an overview of topics in finite mathematics, together with their applications, and it is taken primarily by students who are not majoring in science, engineering, commerce, or mathematics (i.e., students who are not required to take Calculus). The course will draw on and significantly enhance the student's arithmetic and algebraic skills. It includes sets, counting, permutations, combinations, basic probability (including Baye's Theorem), an introduction to statistics (including work with Binomial Distributions and Normal Distributions), matrices and their applications to Markov chains, and decision theory. Additional topics may include symbolic logic, linear models, linear programming, the simplex method and applications. PREREQUISITES: All core mathematics courses in Alabama must have as a minimum prerequisite high school Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II with an appropriate mathematics placement score. An alternative to this prerequisite is that the student should pass with a "C" or higher (S if taken as pass/fail) MTH 100 (Intermediate College Algebra).

MTH 116 Mathematical Applications 3 hours : 3t
This course provides practical applications of mathematics and includes selected topics from consumer math and algebra. Some types included are integers, percent, interest, ratio and proportion, metric system, probability, linear equations, and problem solving. This is a terminal course designed for students seeking an A.A.S. degree and does not meet the general core requirement for mathematics. PREREQUISITE: A grade of "C" or higher (S if taken as pass/fail) in MTH 090 (Basic Mathematics) or appropriate mathematics placement score. *This class will not satisfy the STARS higher math requirement.*

MUS 101 Music Appreciation 3 hours : 3t
This course is designed for non-music majors and requires no previous musical experience. It is a survey course that incorporates several modes of instruction including lecture, guided listening, and similar experiences involving music. The course covers a minimum of three (3) stylistic periods, provides a multicultural perspective, and includes both vocal and instrumental genres. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a knowledge of music fundamentals, the aesthetic/stylistic characteristics of historical periods, and a aural perception of style and structure in music.

NUR 104 Introduction to Pharmacology 1 hour:3s
This course provides opportunities to develop competencies necessary to meet the needs of individuals throughout the lifespan in a safe, legal, and ethical manner using the nursing process. This course introduces students to basic principles of pharmacology and the knowledge necessary to safely administer medication. Course content includes legal implications, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, calculations of drug dosages, medication administration, and an overview of drug classifications. Students will be able to calculate and administer medications.

NUR 109 Role Transition for the Practical Nurse 3 hours: 2t 3s
This course provides students with opportunities to gain knowledge and skills necessary to transition from student to practicing nurse. Content includes a discussion of current issues in health care, practical nursing leadership and management, professional practice issues, and transition into the workplace. Emphasis is placed on NCLEX-PN test-taking skills, computer-assisted simulations and practice tests, development of a prescriptive plan for remediation, and review of selective content, specific to the practice of practical nursing.
PREREQUISITES: NUR NUR 102, NUR 103, NUR 104, NUR 105 & NUR 106;
PREREQUISITES/COREQUISITES: NUR 107 & NUR 108

OAD 231 Office Applications 2 hours
This course is designed to provide the student with a foundation in the use of computerized equipment and application software as tools in the performance of a variety of office tasks through classroom instruction and outside lab. Emphasis is on the role of the office professional in the selection and application of appropriate technology to the specific task or combination of tasks. Upon completion, the student should be able to demonstrate proficiency in the selection of appropriate computerized tools to complete designated tasks.
PREREQUISITE: Permission of the instructor.

ORI 101 Orientation to College 1 hour
This course is a graduation requirement for all degree or certificate-seeking students, and it should be completed during a student’s first semester enrolled at GSCC. The course emphasizes personal responsibility through the exploration of GSCC regulations, campus facilities, and student services. It is also designed to help students develop effective study skills, critical thinking, and career goals. Upon completion of this course, students should be prepared to successfully manage learning experiences to meet educational and career goals.

POL 211 American National Government 3 hours
This course surveys the background, constitutional principles, organization, and operation of the American political system. Topics include the U. S. Constitution, federalism, civil liberties, civil rights, political parties, interest groups, political campaigns, voting behavior, elections, the presidency, bureaucracy, Congress, and the justice system. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and to explain relationships among the basic elements of American government and to function as more informed participants of the American political system.

PSY 200 General Psychology 3 hours
This course is a survey of behavior, with emphasis upon psychological processes. This course includes the biological bases for behavior, thinking, emotion, motivation, and the nature and development of personality.

PSY 210 Human Growth and Development 3 hours
This course is the study of the psychological, social, and physical factors that affect human behavior from conception to death. PREREQUISITE: PSY 200.

PSY 230 Abnormal Psychology 3 hours
This course is a survey of abnormal behavior and its social and biological origins. The anxiety-related disorders, psychoses, personality disorders, and mental deficiencies are covered. PREREQUISITE: PSY 200.

SOC 200 Introduction to Sociology 3 hours
This course is an introduction to vocabulary, concepts, and theory of sociological perspectives of human behavior.

SPH 106 Fundamentals of Oral Communication 3 hours
This is a performance course that includes the principles of human communication: intrapersonal, interpersonal, and public. It surveys current communication theory and provides practical application.


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PO Box 227 Gadsden, AL 35902 · Telephone: (256)549-8200
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