(Not open to students majoring in biotechnology or laboratory management or to students who have completed BIOL 101 or BIOL 102. Fulfills the laboratory science requirement.) An introduction to the structure and function of living organisms. The aim is to apply the scientific method and use scientific and quantitative reasoning to make informed decisions about experimental results in the biological sciences. Topics include the chemical foundations of life, cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecosystems, and the interdependence of living organisms. Discussion also covers the importance of the scientific method to biological inquiry and the impact of biological knowledge and technology on human societies. Laboratory activities emphasize the scientific method. Students may receive credit for only one of the following: BIOL 101 - BIOL 102 or BIOL 103.

(Access to a standard office productivity package, i.e., word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software, required.) An introduction to data and the range of technologies (including hardware, software, databases, and networking and information systems) that provide the foundation for the data-centric focus of modern organizations. The objective is to apply knowledge of basic technical, ethical, and security considerations to select and use information technology (and the data that arises from technology) effectively in one's personal and professional lives. Discussion covers issues related to technology as a vehicle for collecting, storing, and sharing data and information, including privacy, ethics, security, and social impact. Applied exercises focus on the manipulation, analysis, and visualization of data and effective data communication strategies. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: BMGT 301, CAPP 101, CAPP 300, CMST 300, IFSM 201, or TMGT 201.

An introduction to the research process and methods for retrieving information in a library or through online sources. The aim is to identify an information need and locate, evaluate, and use appropriate resources in keeping with academic integrity and ethical standards. Focus is on implementing effective strategies for finding relevant information--including selecting appropriate print and electronic sources and effectively using web search engines and the UMGC Library's electronic resources to find information--and evaluating and correctly citing the information found. Students may not earn credit for LIBS 150 through challenge exam or portfolio credit and may receive credit for only one of the following courses: COMP 111, LIBS 100, or LIBS 150.

A study of the role of music in various cultures. The objective is to identify key features that define various genres of world music, articulate the roles and functions of music in world cultures, use the medium of music to explore intercultural relationships, and consciously define personal musical perspectives. Discussion covers music from various cultural traditions and the contexts in which composers and musicians practice their craft. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 211 or MUSC 210.

(Fulfills the general education requirement in research and computing literacy.) An orientation to UMGC and exploration of how UMGC academic programs align to professional goals and career options. Focus is on developing and practicing communication, teamwork, professionalism, and integrity skills while exploring ways to develop and enhance career opportunities. The aim is to become familiar with the university's academic culture and expectations; learn about UMGC resources for success; reflect on academic and professional goals; and explore opportunities to shorten programs through transfer credit and other prior learning. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: PACE 111B, PACE 111C, PACE 111M, PACE 111P, PACE 111S, or PACE 111T.

(Enrollment restricted to students for whom English is a second language.) An overview of the principles of communication. Verbal and nonverbal language, listening, group dynamics, and public speaking are highlighted. Emphasis is on applying communication principles to contemporary problems and preparing various types of oral discourse. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: SPCH 100, SPCH 100X, SPCH 101, SPCH 107, or SPCH 108.

(Does not apply toward degree requirements. Yields institutional credit only.) An advanced study of spoken English as a second language focusing on American English. Opportunities to discuss and write about cultural similarities and differences are provided.

(The first course in the two-course series WRTG 111X¿WRTG 112X. Fulfills the general education requirement in communications. Enrollment restricted to students for whom English is a second language.) An introduction to reading, writing, and critical thinking in an academic setting. The goal is to practice strategies for understanding academic texts and for developing one's ideas in relation to those texts. Focus is on writing thesis-driven essays that incorporate ideas and information from sources and demonstrate critical thinking, proper attribution, and effective language use. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: WRTG 100A, WRTG 111, or WRTG 111X.