The courses in this cluster develop the knowledge and skills essential for all UDST programs and students' daily lives and future careers. The cluster includes mathematics and science courses specifically designed and benchmarked for the UDST programs. It emphasizes inquiry-based, hands-on learning to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and reasoning skills necessary for scientific exploration and real-world applications.

 

Cluster Learning Outcomes:

Students will,

  • Demonstrate a solid understanding of core mathematical and scientific principles and theories applicable to their programs.

  • Apply quantitative reasoning and scientific principles to analyze and solve problems in real-world contexts, demonstrating critical thinking and practical understanding.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in conducting science experiments, ensuring laboratory safety, accurately collecting and analyzing data, and effectively compiling results.

  • Evaluate mathematical and natural science concepts to develop clear, persuasive presentations with solid reasoning and argumentation.

  • Demonstrate responsible and effective use of digital technology, emphasizing safety, ethical considerations, and critical evaluation of digital content.

  • Investigate sustainability, resource management, and climate change.

Course Descriptions: 

 

BIOL1001 INQUIRY BASED BIOLOGY (3 credits)

This course is designed for non-science majors who are interested in exploring the fundamentals of biology. Through inquiry-based learning, students will engage in hands-on investigations to discover biological concepts such as cellular biology, biotechnology, food security and ecology. Students will develop critical thinking skills and scientific literacy while exploring aspects of the living world.

BIOL1002 INTRODUCTION TO BOTANY (3 credits)

This botany course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, including plant structure, function, classification, metabolism, diversity, and ecological roles, emphasising the importance of plants to the natural world, human society, and the need for their conservation and sustainable use. The course emphasizes the fundamental concepts and processes underlying plant biology, including taxonomy, metabolic pathways, and ecological relationships. Through lectures, discussions, and practical exercises, students develop a foundation in botany and its practical applications in various fields such as agriculture, horticulture, and environmental science.

BIOL1003 FUNDAMENTALS OF ECOLOGY (3 credits)

This is an introductory course that aims to develop an appreciation for the interaction between living organisms and their physical environment. It explores major concepts of ecology, including the world's biomes, energy flow, population dynamics, food production, natural and man-made hazards, and sustainable development goals related to ecology. Through lectures and directed activities, students will learn about diversity, competition, climate change, migration, life expectancy, and other related topics.

BIOL1030 BIOCHEMISTRY & MICROBIOLOGY (3 credits)

Co-requisites: BIOL1031 

The study of biochemistry and microbiology is important to students interested in any health science profession as it strengthens their understanding in what happens inside the human body and other organisms at the cellular level. This course provides students with a brief introduction to cells, the types of molecules and reactions that happen inside cells, and the different types of cells (including microbes and viruses). Besides lectures and course readings, students strengthen their understanding of biochemistry and microbiology topics through online activities and experiential learning in the co-requisite laboratory.

BIOL1031 BIOCHEMISTRY & MICROBIOLOGY (LAB) ( 1 credit)

Co-requisites: BIOL1030

Laboratory is a valuable complement to the theoretical knowledge acquired during lectures. In this practical course, students can actively engage in hands on experiments, thereby acquiring firsthand experience in applying biochemistry and microbiology principles to real life situations. Students will deepen their understanding of cell structures and their functions. This will also lead to a comprehensive grasp of the various biochemical processes within cells and the opportunity to develop essential microbiology laboratory skills like properly handling, identifying and disposing of various microorganisms commonly encountered at workplace.

BIOL1110  ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY I ( 4 credit)

Co-requisites: BIOL1111

For health science professionals, a thorough understanding of the human body's systems is crucial. This course provides an introduction to human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the regulatory mechanisms and adaptations that support homeostasis. Through a combination of lectures, readings, and instructional videos, students will explore fundamental chemical processes, along with cellular and tissue physiology in specific body systems. 

BIOL1210  ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY II (4 credits)

Prerequisites: BIOL1110, BIOL1111

Co-requisites: BIOL1211


This course is designed to provide Health Science students with a deep understanding of biological concepts. It offers a comprehensive study of the human body's structure and function, with an emphasis on the cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous, and urinary systems. By engaging in lectures, assigned readings, instructional videos, and hands-on activities in the co-requisite laboratory, students will deepen their knowledge and prepare for practical applications in healthcare and related disciplines. 

BIOL1310 INTRODUCTION TO PATHOPHYSIOLOGY (3 credits)

Prerequisites: BIOL1210

Health Science professionals need to be able to recognize and understand disease pathologies and the resulting health consequences. This lecture-based course introduces students to the fundamentals of pathophysiology, which is the study of structural and functional changes in cells, tissues, and organs of the body that cause or are caused by disease. Students are provided the opportunity to explore the mechanisms of disease processes to provide the background knowledge necessary for future studies on the preventative and treatment practices.
 
BIOL2010  MICROBIOLOGY (3 credits)

Prerequisites: BIOL2011


For health science students, an understanding of microbiology is essential. This course offers an introduction to the world of microorganisms, exploring their structure, function, growth, culture and significance in the environment, health, and industry. Students will learn about the diverse types of microbes including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and algae. Key topics include microbial physiology, genetics, and ecology, as well as the mechanisms by which microorganisms cause diseases in humans. The course also emphasizes the importance of microbial control to prevent disease in healthcare/workplace settings

BIOL2011 MICROBIOLOGY LAB (1 credit)

Co-requisites: BIOL2010


This lab course covers the principles of microbiology necessary for students in health care programs. The lab session informs students about using light microscopes and basic lab techniques that allow them to aseptically culture, stain, count and perform a series of biochemical tests to characterize and identify several types of bacteria. The labs address the effectiveness of handwashing, hand sanitizing, disinfectant, and antibiotics against common bacterial strains. Students familiarise themselves with some techniques that allow them to prevent, control and regulate microorganisms found in food..

CHEM1010 General Chemistry I (3 credits)

Co-requisites: CHEM1011

Chemistry is the study of matter and the interactions of matter, making it an essential science for engineers. This course aims to provide students with the basic principles of general chemistry through an in-depth study of atomic and molecular theory; and the discussion of atomic structure, periodic properties, chemical bonding, and molecular geometry.  Chemical reactions will be studied and quantitative methods in chemistry used to examine their stoichiometric relationships. The final part of the course will cover the gas laws and thermochemistry so that students develop a deeper understanding of concepts in their technical courses from a molecular point of view. Students study the theory through lectures, discussions, and videos and then apply this knowledge to chemical problems. 

CHEM1011 General Chemistry I Lab (1 credit)

Co-requisites: CHEM1010

Laboratory courses enhance student understanding by helping them visualize abstract concepts through experimental investigations. This course introduces students to the chemistry laboratory and provides the opportunity to further student understanding of the basic chemistry concepts studied in General Chemistry I.

CHEM1020 General Chemistry II (3 credits)

Prerequisites: CHEM1010, CHEM1011

Co-requisites: CHEM1021

General Chemistry II is the second part of a comprehensive two-semester course sequence designed to build upon the fundamental principles and concepts introduced in General Chemistry I. Building upon the foundation laid in General Chemistry I, this course delves into a comprehensive exploration of topics, including the study of liquids, solids, intermolecular forces, properties of solutions, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, hydrocarbon chemistry, and metals and metallurgy. Through lectures, readings, and practical labs, students will develop problem-solving skills for applying these concepts to technical challenges and applications within the engineering field. 

CHEM1021 General Chemistry II Lab (1 credit)

Prerequisites: CHEM1010, CHEM1011

Co-requisites: CHEM1020

Chemistry laboratory courses enhance student understanding by helping them visualize abstract chemistry concepts through experimental investigations. This course allows students to further their understanding of theoretical chemical concepts through practical experiments. Students are provided with the opportunity to study new laboratory techniques as they explore chemical concepts such as intermolecular forces, solutions, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and transition metal compounds.

CHEM1030 Health Sciences Chemistry (3 credits)

Co-requisites: CHEM1031

Chemistry has many applications in the healthcare field. Topics to be covered include matter, measurements, the atom, the periodic table, chemical bonding, formulas, reactions, and stoichiometry, gas laws, chemical kinetics and equilibrium, electrochemistry, acids and bases. Nuclear chemistry including its applications are also explored. Through lectures and class discussions, students extend their knowledge and relate it to their profession.

CHEM1031 Health Sciences Chemistry Lab (1 credit)

Co-requisites: CHEM1030

Laboratory courses enhance student understanding by helping them visualize abstract concepts through experimental investigations. This course allows students to further their chemical understanding of theoretical concepts through experimentation as they learn new laboratory techniques to study the concepts outlined in Health Sciences Chemistry.

CHEM1040 APPLIED SCIENCE (3 credits)

Co-requisites: CHEM1041


Understanding general scientific principles is essential to understanding the world around us; this is particularly true for Health Sciences professionals. In this course, principles of chemistry and physics are studied as they apply to the practice of health sciences. Major topics include bonding, matter, solutions, equilibrium, electrochemistry, thermochemistry, and kinetics. Through lectures and course readings, students are provided with the opportunity to expand their knowledge of these topics and then apply this knowledge in weekly, hands-on labs in the co-requisite course.

CHEM1041 APPLIED SCIENCE lab (1 credit)

Co-requisites: CHEM1040

Laboratory courses enhance student understanding by helping them visualize abstract concepts through experimental investigations. This course allows students to further their understanding of theoretical chemical concepts through practical experiments. Students explore new laboratory techniques as they study chemical concepts related to applied science. Topics include gas laws, phase changes, chemical equilibrium, buffers, and electrochemistry.

CHEM3010 Petrochemistry (2 credits)

Prerequisites: CHEM1020

Co-requisites: CHEM3011

The petroleum industry is based on an understanding of the chemistry of petroleum products. This course provides students a greater understanding of the concepts that form the basis of chemical technology in the petroleum industry. It provides an overview of the fundamental petrochemical separation and conversion process of petroleum and natural gas which are prominent in the hydrocarbon processing industry. Through lectures and class discussions, students explore these topics and relate them to the local industry of today.

CHEM3011 Petrochemistry Lab (1 credit)

Prerequisites: CHEM1021

Co-requisites: CHEM3010

Laboratory courses enhance student understanding by helping them visualize abstract concepts through experimental investigations. This course further develops students' experimental techniques in the chemistry laboratory and provides them the opportunity to explore the behavior of basic organic chemicals, which are the building blocks of the petrochemical industry. The experimental study/testing of chemical and physical properties of hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon groups found in the petroleum industry further students' understanding of the concepts studied in Petrochemistry.
COMP1401 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS & INFORMATION SYSTEMS (3 credits)
Computers and information systems are necessary to work efficiently and professionally in this digital era. Topics include an introduction to computers and computer systems, networking, effective usage of the Web, essential cybersecurity aspects, and the importance of ethical conduct in digital environments. The course also focuses on the best practices and usage of office software, such as word processors and presentation and spreadsheet software, that are needed in most professional environments. The course is delivered through short lectures, online content, labs, and assignments that help students practice their skills with an emphasis on professional and ethical behavior.
INFT2102 Mathematics for IT (3 credits)

Prerequisites: INFS1101

This course introduces students to fundamental mathematics and discrete structures required for computing and IT. It illustrates how to develop a math foundation for Information Technology to aid in the development of the student’s use of problem-solving techniques necessary for Information Technology. Students learn to analyze problems related to discrete structures and find correct solutions backed by Boolean algebra, sets, functions, numeral systems, logic gates and simple combinational circuits, relations, graphs and trees, Mathematical Models, and regular expressions. Through a variety of lectures, tutorials and exercises, students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively apply fundamental mathematics and discrete structures to model and solve Information Systems and Technology problems.
 
MATH1010 Algebra & Trigonometry (3 credits)

Prerequisites: MA1029 OR AMPI Score of 60%

A strong foundation in algebra and trigonometry is essential for the success of students in their higher-level math and science courses as well as in everyday life. This course is intended for students of all disciplines to help strengthen their fundamental mathematical skills. Topics include conceptual and applied mathematics involving linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions and equations, radicals, and quadratics. In addition, students will investigate fundamental trigonometric topics pertaining to angles, the unit circle, right triangles, and applications of trigonometric functions. Through a variety of student-centered investigations, real-life applications, and adaptive learning practice, students learn to effectively use quantitative and mathematical symbolic reasoning and analysis in their personal and professional lives.
 
MATH1020 Pre-Calculus (3 credits)

Prerequisites: MATH1010 OR AMPII Score of 75%

This course focuses on developing essential technical mathematical skills in functions and analytical trigonometry to ensure success in subsequent math courses. Students learn to identify and describe the effects of transformation on both algebraic and graphical forms of polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. In addition, they analyze the behaviors of functions and use the properties of functions to solve equations and application problems. Students gain a solid foundation in the study of trigonometric functions and their applications in real-world contexts, in addition to analytical trigonometric concepts applied to polar coordinate systems. Through a variety of student-centered investigations, real-life applications, and adaptive learning technologies, students learn to effectively practice mathematical reasoning and symbolic analysis in their pursuit of lifelong learning.
 
MATH1030 Calculus I (3 credits)

Prerequisites: MATH1020 OR AMPII Score of 85%
 

Calculus is a branch of mathematics that studies how to quantitatively assess change over time, especially as it applies to technical programs. This course introduces students to the rules of differentiation and the methods of differentiating various algebraic and transcendental functions. Through mathematical problem-solving, students learn how to solve real-life problems using differentiation, followed by an introduction to integration. Through a variety of student-centered investigations, real-life applications, and adaptive learning technologies, students learn to effectively practice mathematical reasoning and symbolic analysis of calculus concepts in their pursuit of lifelong learning.
 
MATH1040 Statistics (3 credits)
Statistical knowledge is important in the business and scientific fields as it provides an understanding of how data is collected and analyzed. This is an introductory statistics course intended for students in a variety of study areas and research. Students apply fundamental concepts in statistics to interpret results of a variety of statistical techniques from descriptive and inferential statistics, and to critically review and analyse statistical information. Through a variety of student-centered investigations, real-life applications, and adaptive-learning technologies, students learn to effectively use elementary statistical software and techniques to critically assess statistical work in real world applications.
 
MATH1050 Linear Algebra (3 credits)

Linear algebra is the branch of mathematics with many applications including mathematical physics and coding theory. This course introduces the fundamental concepts of linear algebra and their applications. Topics include systems of equations, matrices, determinants, vector spaces, inner product spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Through a variety of student-centered investigations and real-life applications, students learn to effectively practice mathematical reasoning and symbolic analysis of linear algebra concepts in their pursuit of lifelong learning.

MATH1060 Numerical Problem Solving (3 credits)
The modern business environment requires its professionals to demonstrate the ability to analyze and summarize data, and use statistical analysis for decision-making in real-world business scenarios. This course provides students studying management, marketing, finance, accounting, economics, and other fields of business administration with an introductory survey of descriptive and inferential statistics that support such analytical decision-making skills. In addition to describing data with graphical, tabular, and quantitative summaries, students will also use probability models and hypothesis testing to analyze situations in business environments with uncertainty. Through a variety of student-centered investigations, real-life applications, and adaptive-learning technologies, students learn to effectively practice mathematical reasoning and symbolic analysis of statistics concepts in their pursuit of lifelong learning.
 
MATH1070 Applied Mathematics (3 credits)

A strong foundation in mathematics is essential for solving many problems in the business industry. This course provides an overview of conceptual and applied mathematics, including solving algebraic equations; simplifying algebraic expressions, including polynomial, radical, exponential and logarithmic
expressions; followed by solving business-related topics such as simple and compound interest, percentage mark-up and markdown, breakeven analysis and how to analyze a variety of graphs. Through a variety of student-centered investigations, real-life applications, and adaptive learning technologies, students learn to effectively practice applied mathematical reasoning and symbolic analysis in their pursuit of lifelong learning.

MATH2002 quantitative designs & statistics (3 credits)

Students are introduced to quantitative health research processes and statistical analyses. Students learn the preparation of statistical data, statistical analysis and interpretation within the context of the positivist research paradigm for health research. Strategies for critically reviewing, integrating, and disseminating statistical findings from health research are discussed and how this data informs knowledge for practice. Learning is applied in a one-hour weekly supervised tutorial.

MATH2010 Calculus II (3 credits)

Prerequisites: MATH1030

Integral Calculus is essential in the understanding of real-world problems related to physics and engineering. This comprehensive course builds upon prior mathematical theories and applied differential skills, introducing students to advanced applications and techniques of integration, polar coordinates, sequences and series, and power series. Through lectures and problem-solving activities, students learn to connect applications of integration to technical problems in their programs and professions. Through a variety of student-centered investigations and real-life applications, students learn to effectively practice mathematical reasoning and symbolic analysis about integration in their pursuit of lifelong learning.
 
MATH2020 Numerical Methods (3 credits)

Prerequisites: MATH2010

Numerical Methods is a fundamental course designed to equip students with the necessary skills to explore the principles, algorithms, and applications of using computational approaches to approximate solutions of mathematics problems in the applied sciences. Major topics include the approximation of solution(s) to linear and nonlinear equations, error and their propagation, polynomial interpolation, numerical differentiation and integration, curve fitting, and solutions of initial value and boundary value problems. Students will evaluate the accuracy and reliability of numerical algorithms, as well as to proficiently interpret and communicate the outcomes of numerical simulations. Throughout the curriculum, students will implement algorithms using numeric computing tools and environments, and employ these approaches to address real-world problems in computer science.
 
PHYS1020 General Physics (3 credits)

Co-requisites: PHYS1021

Physics is the scientific and mathematical basis on which higher technical courses are built. This introductory physics course is primarily intended for engineering students to provide them with an opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of some fundamental concepts and laws in Mechanics. Topics covered include kinematics in one and two dimensions, the concept of force and Newton’s Laws of motion, work and energy, momentum, rotational motion, static equilibrium and elasticity. Through a combination of lectures and problem-solving exercises, students are provided with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and solve a variety of real-life engineering physics problems.
 
PHYS1021 General Physics Lab (1 credit)

Co-requisites: PHYS1020


Physics laboratory courses help students process and visualize concepts that are learned in the theory course. This course will help students further understand the topics such as: motion in one dimension, motion due to gravitational acceleration, vectors, Newton’s laws of motion, frictional forces, conservation of energy, linear momentum and collisions, rotation of a rigid body about a fixed axis and elasticity. Experiments will utilize technology and computers to collect measurements and analyze data.

PHYS1030 Health Sciences Physics (3 credits)

Co-requisites: PHYS1031

Physics is a study of nature and natural phenomena and is essential to advancements in healthcare. This course will foster students’ competency in basic physics principles and concepts in mechanics, waves, heat, sound, and electricity. Through lectures, class discussions, and problem solving, students will be able to apply these concepts to their healthcare profession.

PHYS1031 Health Sciences Physics Lab (1 credit) 

Co-requisites: PHYS1030

Laboratory courses help students process and visualize concepts that are learned in theory courses. Through the application of physics principles and concepts, this course helps students further understand the topics learned in Health Science Physics, extending their competency in data handling, data analysis, experimentation, and problem-solving.

SCIE1001 Science & Its Applications (3 credits)

Understanding the basic methods behind scientific discoveries and how they impact daily life is important for understanding how the world around us is connected. This course introduces students to various disciplines of science and their relation- ships to everyday applications. The course investigates how science has shaped our daily lives though technology, and how using science and the scientific method has solved problems in the past and how it will evolve to solve problems of the future. This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary approach to science through discussions of biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics and how they apply to real-word situations and problems. Through lectures, class discussion and individual research, students investigate such topics as climate change, medicine, communications, energy and space travel.

SCIE1002 Science & the Environment (3 credits)

Science has a direct impact on the environment, and it is important that this relationship be understood to protect the future health of people and the environment. This course is intended for students in social science programs of study as an introduction to science domains and how science impacts the environment. The emphasis is on local and global environmental issues and crises, how they develop, and how science contributes to their resolution. Environmental issues are investigated through case studies, research, and group discussions.